GTW184

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29

SE EP AG E

Issue 184 £3.99

SA ST VI AR NG T !

FO RAR J TW IN UST O C FO £ O RE 10 UR ST .50 SE CA A S FE T

Let us take you places – and save you money

SCAN HERE for cheaper tickets!

5

friends + you = the best family & group rates!

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001 GTW Apr 18 Cover.indd 1

Britain’s best race days

+

THE UK’S TOP AIR SHOWS GREAT VALUE TRIPS FOR FAMILIES & SCHOOLS WIN!

TICKETS TO CADBURY WORLD 27/03/2018 13:00


WHAT WILL YOU EXPERIENCE ON YOUR NEXT GROUP ADVENTURE? European & Worldwide Escorted Tours for Groups 2018 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.

Why choose Riviera Travel? 

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C O MM IS S IO N F OR YOU R G ROU P

To request a brochure, please call:

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www.groupsriviera.co.uk For group enquiries: groups@rivieratravel.co.uk Web:

Please mention Group Travel World April 2018 when you book Riviera Travel, New Manor, 328 Wetmore Road, Burton on Trent, Staffs, DE14 1SP. ABTA V4744 and ATOL 3430 protected. Prices are based on two people sharing a twin room. Additional entrance costs may apply. *Some elements are not commissionable, including upgrades, insurance premiums and some supplements – ask for full details. †Supplements applicable for certain regional stations. A commission invoice will be requested from the group leader in the month following that of the departure.

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ABTA No. V4744

13/04/2018 11:49


Welcome

A word from the editor E

VERY DAY’S A school day, so the saying

to our growing band of readers who are

goes, and this month I’ve picked up a fair

loving finding Harvey every month. Well

few facts worth sharing. Did you know, for

done to all those who’ve found him so far

example, that at the Llechwedd Slate Cavern

– and if you’re new to the Harvey hunt, check

in Wales, a local cheddar’s aged 500 feet

out page 112 for details. Last issue he was

underground? And Tony Warren, famous

hiding on a rollercoaster, but this month he’s

for creating Coronation Street back in the

got his paws firmly on terra firma!

1960s, came up with the idea for the soap

Finally, whatever you get up to this month,

as a young lad, after listening to his

remember that we can help you save

grandmother gossiping with her friends?

money too. Head to grouptraveloffers.com

(At the time he was hiding under her

for cut-price tickets to hundreds of

table!) Amazing what you learn while

attractions, and check out our new-look

you’re putting a magazine together. All these facts and more are

■ See grouptraveloffers.com for cut-price attraction tickets ■ Plus visit our new jobs site traveljobsworld.com 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

website at grouptravelworld.com

E. helen.milbank@grouptravelworld.com

Until next month...

Designer: David Hiles E: david.hiles@d15design.com

crammed into the next few pages, and can I just say a big thank you

Contributors: George Cooper, Naomi MacKay, Louise Murgatroyd, Sue Parslow, Mike Pickup, John Sansom and Angela Youngman ADVERTISING

Advertising Manager: Julie Cousins T: 01733 293242 E: julie.cousins@grouptravelworld.com

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Client Manager: Paige Fraser T: 01733 293245 E: paige.fraser@grouptravelworld.com Sales Executive: Karen Newton T: 01733 293489 E: karen.newton@grouptravelworld.com SUBSCRIPTIONS/MARKETING

Marketing Subscriptions Executive: Emma Parkes T: 01733 293487 E: emma.parkes@grouptravelworld.com Marketing Executive: Emily Dougall T: 01733 293483 E: emily.dougall@grouptravelworld.com

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GROUP TRAVEL OFFERS

Trade account managers: 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

COVER IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK

© 2018 GTW Media Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or system or in any means without the written permission of the directors. This is considered a breach of copyright and action will be taken where this occurs. This magazine must not be lent, sold, hired or otherwise disposed of in a mutilated condition or in any authorised cover by way, or by trade, or annexed to any publication or advertising matter without first obtaining written permission from the directors. Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @GTWMagazine, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/grouptravelworld and join our Linkedin group Group Travel World Magazine

We’re off to a racing start this issue – see p46 for 2018’s best race days

Group Travel World magazine is read by

leading UK and European coach operators, as well as active group travel organisers, representing more than 1,000,000 travellers.

COACH COA OACH TOURISM T

ASSOCIA ASSOCIATION

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3

27/03/2018 13:29


38 The best spots in Britain to watch and learn

VISIT ENGLAND

VISIT ENGLAND

28 Need a heads up? Check out our guide to family attractions

VISIT BRITAIN

JONATHAN SMITH PIXABAY/ALEXAS_FOTOS

92 Take to the skies at this summer’s air shows

32 The UK’s top castles and ruins to visit 4 WWW.GROUPTRAVELOFFERS.COM

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Contents Regulars 6 Let’s go...

Start saving now! Shop for cheaper tickets to attractions at grouptraveloffers.com

Explore the Canadian Rockies

8 15 minutes with...

The Apprentice star Jade English

10 News

The latest from the world of travel

68 Theatre news & reviews What’s on in theatreland

100 Industry insider

News from the Coach Tourism Association

104 London & Partners

Explore the London borough of Notting Hill

105 UKinbound

Visit Northumberland reveals its hidden gems

106Expert Q&As

Your travel questions answered

110 Readers’ letters

You share your news and photos

112 Puzzle pages

Try our quizzes and puzzles every month

114 And finally...

We meet TV actress Louisa Lytton

Features 16 Charity begins at home

The UK’s quirkiest charity-run attractions

22 The plot thickens

We reveal Britain’s best-loved gardens

28 Need a heads up?

We round up family-friendly attractions

32 Defenders of the faith

The castles and ruins that bring history to life

38 12 of the best... Days out for school kids

46 The fast and the furious VISIT ENGLAND

Time for a day at the races

16 Explore Oxford’s quirky side

22 Make it a summer of gardens and shows

50 A Highland fling

Scottish attractions, country fairs and more

52 Into the sunset

Discover all Wales has to offer

55 Let battle commence!

Museums and galleries worth exploring

58 Life in the Street

The story behind Coronation Street

62 Found your sea legs?

Expert advice for first-time cruisers

78 Castles, abbeys & bards Take a history lover’s tour of Warwickshire

92 The sky's the limit

Air shows, aviation museums and attractions

62 Our beginner’s guide to cruising

96 The ultimate all-inclusive

Meet the experts who’ll ensure your group holiday’s a success WWW.GROUPTRAVELOFFERS.COM

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28/03/2018 09:23


CANADIAN ROCKIES

The Rocky Mountaineer Right now, as Western Canada’s glorious prairies and mountains burst into life, there are few better ways to explore this region than by train. And every year, more than two million people agree, climbing aboard the famous Rocky Mountaineer as it carves its way from Vancouver to Lake Louise. Passengers can take their pick of four scenic routes – and most plumb for the muchloved ‘First Passage to the West’. This is the only passenger service on the historic Canadian Pacific track, made famous for uniting the country and connecting British Columbia to Canada more than 150 years ago. As anyone who’s ever travelled on the Rocky Mountaineer will tell you, a big heap of Brownie points go to whoever came up with the idea to build the glass-domed rail cars – cue spectacular panoramic views of the mountains and canyons. Of course, all this doesn’t come cheap, but we’re not talking sky-high-sell-a-kidney prices, with a five-day trip costing from £2,000-ish. And that includes meals, sightseeing tours and a helicopter ‘flightseeing’ trip (find out more at www.rockymountaineer.com). Plus, there are deals to be had for larger groups, including some free places.

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Let’s go...

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7

27/03/2018 13:39


15 minutes with...

Jade English Travel has been crucial in developing BBC Apprentice star Jade English’s lifestyle and business concept

T

RAVELLING IS OFTEN regarded as a waste

Interrailing. We left the UK with next to

(and was!) a lot of fun. I didn’t expect to get

of time in terms of furthering your career

no money and stayed in the cheapest

on if I’m honest, but was thrilled when I was

and climbing the ladder. I could not disagree

hostels we could find. Trying to find nifty

accepted. I feel so grateful to have been able

more. The life lessons I have learned through

tricks to make it possible made it even

to participate in such a unique experience

travelling have taught me more skills that

more fun – it didn’t matter that we had no

and it’s changed my life and career direction.

I can use in the workplace than anything I

money, as the experiences and memories

could have learned sat at my desk. I’ve learned

are something I will have with me forever.

to budget, negotiate, adapt to different

My business idea is a website that will help people obtain their dream careers

It was here that I discovered my travel

through experiences, which was inspired

people and surroundings, be independent,

bug. As we were travelling for a month, we

by the fact that I believe I have learned so

trust my gut instinct... the list goes on.

focused on Western Europe and toured Italy,

much through my own life experiences. If

I believe travelling is the closest thing to

Spain and the Netherlands (where I had my

anything comes from this process I want to

experiencing life like a child again. Seeing new

suitcase stolen). My favourite place to visit

encourage younger generations to explore

and incredible things for the first time makes

during our time away was Florence – the

the world and live a truly fulfilled life.

us more mindful and able to live in the moment

place was lovely and felt so authentic.

which, to me, is what life is all about. When

I decided to try for the Apprentice because

My next travel trip is going to be quite a bizarre but exciting one. I’m going

you’re in a day to day routine it’s easy to stop

I had a business idea that I wanted investment

to live as a monk for a month in India,

noticing the beauty of the world around you.

in. I’ve always been very entrepreneurial and

as I’m studying cultural happiness for

interested in business – plus it looked like

upcoming business projects.

When I was 17, my friend and I went

GTW

PHOTO: PIXABAY/SYLABO. AS TOLD TO: ANGELA YOUNGMAN

Jade is a huge fan of Florence

8 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

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13/04/2018 11:49


News JULIA CLAXTON

Blooming lovely

Going underground Bringing history’s more gruesome elements to

Arundel Castle in West Sussex will host its

at Arundel Castle, with months of planning

life, the UK’s nationwide network of Dungeons

largest ever tulip festival during April and

going into the event. The long hours of

take the art of story telling to another level.

May, with more than 60,000 flowers set

bulb-planting during the closed season

Based in London, Blackpool, Edinburgh,

to bloom in the castle’s gardens.

are more than worth it when the gardens

Warwick Castle and York, each Dungeon

explode into colour.”

tour uses high-tech special effects and a cast

This year also marks the castle’s 950th anniversary, and the 10th anniversary of the Collector Earl’s Garden. Head gardener Martin Duncan says: “The festival is a real highlight of the season

Keen gardeners can also visit the castle’s

of actors to create a unique, walk-through

first ever Plant Fair on April 29, and private

experience visitors can see, hear, touch, smell

guided tours of the gardens can be arranged.

and feel, as each location’s real life past is re-

Find out more at www.arundelcastle.org

enacted. See www.thedungeons.com

Exclusive offer!

Thirlestane Castle

Group Travel World readers can now save 10% on Cadbury World’s Heritage Tour and Afternoon Tea package. For groups of 15 or more, the Heritage Tour and Afternoon Tea package includes a guided tour around Bournville Village. Explore the history of the village on board your coach – then discover the history, the magic and the making of chocolate at THIRLESTANE CASTLE

Cadbury World. Watch chocolatiers in the Chocolate Making zone, reminisce over Cadbury adverts in Advertising Avenue, and enjoy afternoon tea in the Cadbury Café. Normally £16.50 per person, GTW

Dine like a duke Thirlestane Castle on the Scottish Borders has launched a range of new private dining packages and guided tours of the 16th century castle.

readers can save 10% Monday to Friday from September 5-28, 2018 and pay by the Maitland family from all over the word. Surrounded by parkland, and just 35 minutes

£14.85 per person 15 or more. Visit cadburyworld.co.uk for details. To book,

south of Edinburgh, Thirlestane Castle is the

call 0844 880 7667

perfect city escape. And a series of extra

and quote ‘Group

Dining Room, then walk in the footsteps of the

touches make it even more memorable for

Travel World

Duke of Lauderdale, the uncrowned King of

groups, from jousting displays on the front

magazine’. For

Scotland. Explore the castle’s links with Mary

lawn to exclusive whisky tastings. Groups can

T&Cs see group

Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie, and

even learn how to play the bagpipes. To find

travelworld.com

discover more about the treasures collected

out more visit www.thirlestanecastle.co.uk

Dine like a duke in the atmospheric State

Turn to page 38 for more on Cadbury World

10 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

010-012 GTW Apr 18 News.indd 10

27/03/2018 13:46


GREAT DEALS FOR GROUPS

Free Places

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Lamport Hall & Gardens The home of the world’s oldest garden gnome! • Beautiful house over 400 years old • Two-acre walled garden with 250 rows of flowers • Free entry to Museum of Rural Life • Refreshments in the Hall • Groups very welcome • Themed talks available for 2018

NEW

Lamport Hall

Lamport, Northampton NN6 9HD

HP Template.indd 11

01604 686272

house@lamporthall.co.uk www.lamporthall.co.uk

13/04/2018 13:16


News Wicksteed Park

Time for a quick pillage? The GTW award-winning Jorvik Viking Centre invites visitors to hop aboard its new, improved ride experience and be transported back to the year AD960.

The park that rocks

Eric Bloodaxe, the last Viking King in Jorvik, has been expelled and the city is

Wicksteed Park in Northamptonshire has

journey through the sounds of the 60s,

transforming itself... Find out more at

announced its new line up of daytime shows.

takes place on September 11, 12, 13,

www.jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk/groups

Twist and Shout, Sing As We Go and the

17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26 and 27.

Christmas Variety Spectacular will bring

■ The

West End quality entertainment to the heart

November 26 to 29 and on December 3, 4,

DID YOU KNOW?

of the park’s 147 acres.

5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, and 20.

You’ll soon be able to fly to the Lake

■ Sing

As We Go, celebrating the centenary

Christmas Variety Spectacular runs from

Tickets cost from just £20, and group

District! Commercial passenger flights

of the end of World War One, plays on

bookings can be made by contacting

start at Carlisle Lake District Airport

June 11, 12, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21 and 22.

Charlotte Rose on 01536 512475.

from early June, with routes connecting

■ Twist

Alternatively, see wicksteedpark.org

the region with the south east of

and Shout, a nostalgic musical

England, Northern Ireland and the

In a bid to boost UK visitor numbers, Frankfurt

Discover all Frankfurt has to offer groups

has launched its ‘Take a closer look’ campaign

©DOMROMER GMBHROEMER

Take a closer look...

Republic of Ireland. Find out more at www.carlisleairport.co.uk

history, heritage and culture. The campaign’s

Entertain in style

been timed to coincide with the opening,

Luxury country house hotel Eynsham Hall

later this year, of the city’s new DomRömer

has refurbished its conference facilities, which

Quarter, a major project to reconstruct parts

means the Oxfordshire venue’s now even

of the historic city centre destroyed during the

better set up to cater for corporate events.

Second World War.

New, improved facilities include 40 dedicated

to highlight the German city’s remarkable

“Frankfurt is well known as a major

meeting, event and training rooms that can

financial and conference centre. However, our old town, together with the Old

accommodate groups of up to 160. While Frankfurt Tourism has produced two new

up to 2,000 guests can be accommodated

Sachsenhausen district, home to our

suggested tour itineraries to inspire tour

at any one time in the hotel. Find out more at

world-famous Apfelwein restaurants, and

planners. “Our three-night city break by

www.eynshamhall.com

the Main River, offer groups something

air, Discover Surprising Frankfurt, includes

special,” says Anke Haub, international

a walking tour of the old town, an evening

marketing manager with Frankfurt Tourism.

cruise on the River Main and the opportunity

“Equally important, at weekends, our

to experience one of Frankfurt’s famous

modern, luxury hotels can provide four- and

‘Apfelwein’ restaurants,” says Anke. “For

five-star accommodation at value-for-money

coach tour operators we’ve put together a

prices that will appeal to group bookers.

suggested six-night tour by coach that includes

Add to that our ‘new’ old town that officially

Frankfurt and the popular Rhine-side town of

opens in September, and we have even more

Rudesheim, with an optional visit to Cologne

reasons to invite group travel organisers

on the journey to or from the UK.” To find out

and tour planners to take a closer look.”

more email Anke at haub@infofrankfurt.de

Oxfordshire’s Eynsham Hall

12 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

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H O R S E RAC I N G G R O UP DAY S O UT WITH THE JOCKEY CLUB

CARL IS L E

H AYD O CK PARK M ARK ET RASE N NOT T INGH AM

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Visit our new, improved website at www.grouptravelworld.com and discover a whole new world, including...

NEWS

■ Access to exclusive attraction, theatre and other ticket discounts, with the option to buy now, pay later – and no group minimum (buy one or 100 tickets, it’s up to you!) ■ Expert advice from the travel world’s biggest names, trade bodies and companies ■ Inspirational travel features from across the world ■ Exclusive invites to Group Travel World magazine fam trips to leading attractions throughout the UK

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N O W 19 O 20 LE N SA

Great for Groups

Why not join the hundreds of groups that travel with us every year and discover all the benefits of Daish’s Holidays for yourself. FREE

places for groups over 20 people

A choice of 7 fantastic seaside locations spread across 8 hotels

Dedicated groups team to support you from booking to arrival

Great value half board breaks including nightly entertainment

Award winning customer service

Fleet of 22 luxury coaches to provide comfortable travel

Get in touch with us Today!

Call 01202 638 841 or visit daishs.com facebook.com/daishsholidaysforgroups Isle of Wight Untitled-1 15

Torquay

Bournemouth

Eastbourne

@daishs4groups Llandudno

Newquay

Weymouth 13/04/2018 11:50


Charity

begins at home…

VISIT ENGLAND/EXPERIENCE OXFORDSHIRE

Ghostly castles, hairy rescue cases and Narnia-esque wardrobes. Welcome to the weird and wonderful world of Britain’s quirkiest charity-run attractions

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Days out Words: George Cooper

S

ITTING IN A side street, just a few minutes from Oxford’s railway

– is growing apace, and also provides

any other museum. We want children

a range of spaces for conferences,

and adults to be able to step into the

meetings, parties and other events.

world of their favourite stories. “Once

“We try to be a museum for the whole

our new redevelopment plans, which

station (watch for the old telephone

family,” says Sophie Hiscock, head of

start this year, are complete we’ll have

box marked ‘nonsense’), The Story

fundraising and communications. “By

six more creative spaces just like this

Museum is a real hidden gem. Set in

far our most popular attraction has

– so 10 in total, including a whispering

a huge former Royal Mail depot, it’s

been our ‘Narnia’ wardrobe, where

wood and an enchanted library, where

the place where famous children’s

visitors can literally step through the

visitors can wander between the

stories are brought to life in vast,

wardrobe into the fantasy novel.

bookshelves into a different world.”

themed rooms and exhibitions.

“Children love stories and letting

As Sophie mentioned, the museum’s

their imagination run wild, so we try to

set for another huge refurbishment later

authors, artists and teachers, the

make all our creative spaces immersive

this year, which should be complete in

museum – which is a registered charity

experiences. In that sense, we’re unlike

2020 and will increase

With the help of volunteers, including

Historic Oxford is home to The Story Museum

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Days out

VISIT ENGLAND/EXPERIENCE OXFORDSHIRE

Sophie Hiscock of The Story Museum

Costumed Characters on Alice Day, organised by The Story Museum

The Donkey Sanctuary is home to more than 500 animals

the number of exhibitions and creative

plenty to do, with a maze and outdoor play

which is based in Dorney, is to rescue,

spaces, and is open most weekdays,

area for children and guided walks. Groups

rehabilitate and rehome animals, many of

Saturdays and school holidays, with entry

are well catered for, with a drop-off zone at

which have suffered from years of neglect

from just £5, see storymuseum.org.uk

the entrance for parties and a new restaurant

and lack of care. If rehoming is not possible,

providing breakfast, lunch and cream teas.

the animals stay at the sanctuary living

Another kids’ favourite is Eureka! The National Children’s Museum in Halifax, which

You can also book an expert guide for a

is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.

40-minute tour. Entry’s free and it’s open

Run as an educational charity, it’s blazing

all year round. Find out more at www.the

a trail as the UK’s leading museum aimed

donkeysanctuary.org.uk/visit-us/sidmouth

entirely for children, with six unique ‘zones’ each filled with interactive exhibits to inspire enquiring young minds. But this is more than just a museum; it can also be booked for corporate events, meetings and team-building days, and hired for promotions and product launches. The discounted rates for groups

The Animal Sanctuary is also highly-recommended for the

From snow leopards to boa constrictors, the Welsh Mountain Zoo in Colwyn Bay has creatures of all shapes and sizes. Visit www.welshmountain zoo.org

tremendous work they do. However, be warned

428 animals in 2016 and rehomed 350. The place is, unsurprisingly, hugely popular with families and group visits. Events vary, from jumble sales to dinner dances and Christmas fayres, but the animals are undoubtedly the main attraction here and they have a role to play themselves, with the sanctuary providing support for people

– you’re unlikely to come

with learning difficulties who enjoy spending

away with dry eyes.

time with the feathered and furry occupants.

The purpose of The Animal Sanctuary,

Open every day from 11am to 4pm, see theanimalsanctuaryuk.org.uk VISIT ENGLAND/BOLSOVER CASTLE/ENGLISH HERITAGE

museum offers special

A visit to Buckinghamshire-based

long, healthy and happy lives: it rescued

of 10 or more children, with parking available next to the museum. See www.eureka.org.uk

SOMETHING TO BRAY ABOUT Charitable attractions don’t come any hairier than The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth – voted in the top 10 best family days out in Devon by the Daily Telegraph last year. Set on the spectacular Jurassic Coast, the sanctuary homes more than 500 donkeys, mules and hinnies (the offspring of a male horse and a female donkey, in case you were wondering). Founded in 1969 by Dr Elisabeth Svendsen, MBE, it’s an international charity whose mission is to transform the lives of donkeys, mules and people worldwide. There’s

Derbyshire’s Bolsover Castle

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GATEWAY TO EUROPE Take a group on any of our daily, overnight sailings between Newcastle and IJmuiden, near Amsterdam, for a convenient starting point for a trip to Europe. DFDS offer great-value deals for groups. • Mini Cruise - 1 in 10 go free FROM

£32pp Travel with your coach & no charge for your coach or driver FROM

£20pp* Meal packages FROM

£27pp**

pp

NEWCASTLE-AMSTERDAM DFDS.CO.UK/GROUPS Prices subject to availability. T&Cs & credit card charges apply. *Min 20 persons. **Inc 1 buffet breakfast & 1 buffet dinner.

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Days out AN ENGLISHMAN’S HOUSE... ...may well be his castle, but there’s a special,

Glorious Chatsworth House

almost intangible atmosphere about Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, which offers an enchanting glimpse England’s past set in the Northumberland countryside. Visitors can begin their day in the Grand Grecian Hall, a Grade 1 listed building that was once home to the Middleton family (no, not that one) and built from rock carved from Belsay’s own quarry, before exploring the family bedrooms. From there, take a stroll through the vast and lovingly-restored heritage gardens before marvelling at the view from the top of the ruined medieval tower. charity English Heritage and offers a 15 per

Peaky blinder

cent discount for groups of 11 or more.

Chatsworth House, in the heart of the Peak

to these works of art there are more

There are guided tours of the gardens with

District in Derbyshire, is well worth a visit

than 30 rooms to explore, together

the head gardener which last about two

purely for the breadth and quality of its art

with plenty of places to eat and shop.

hours and need to be booked one month in

– but there is much more besides.

Belsay Hall is administered by registered

advance. See www.english-heritage.org.uk A tad further south in Derbyshire, and

For individuals and groups considering

The house, many of its contents, and

a longer stay, visit chatsworthstays.co.uk

more than 1,800 acres of the surrounding

for information on the many hotels, inns

Bolsover Castle is not a place you’ll forget

landscape are leased to a registered charity,

and cottages around the Chatsworth

in a hurry. With spectacular countryside

the Chatsworth House Trust, and the art

Estate (the house is accessible by bus from

views, this Stuart mansion is beautiful,

collection contains pieces spanning 4,000

Chesterfield, Manchester and Sheffield, and

imposing, and just a little sinister.

years, from ancient Rome to masterpieces

the car park is free with all tickets booked

by Rembrandt and Reynolds. In addition

online). See www.chatsworth.org

You could easily spend a day here – it has a reputation for revelry – strolling through the medieval castle with its labyrinth of rooms, marble fireplaces and painted ceilings.

approximately one-and-a-half hours. There

year, Hadrian’s Wall is one of northern England’s

Unusually, there are no ropes or barriers so

are occasional evening ghost tours too,

most spectacular sights.

you can touch and sit on all the furniture,

where you get to hear of some of some of

making for a pleasingly real experience. An

the downright scary happenings over the

country’s east and west coasts, it was built in

interactive tour features a multimedia guide

centuries (there is, apparently, a woman

AD122 after the Emperor Hadrian ordered his

voiced by actor Rupert Penry-Jones. There’s

haunting the castle). Check the website for

soldiers to construct a wall between Roman

also a fountain garden, terrace range and

details at www.englishheritage.org.uk

Britain and Scotland to control the number of

– for the first time in 250 years – you can stroll along the newly-restored wall walk. Groups are well catered for, with guided tours for between 15 and 25 people lasting

AND FINALLY

An 80-mile long fortification connecting the

people leaving and entering. It remains a stunning site, lined with ramparts, turrets, shrines, bath-

A World Heritage Site that was recently included

houses, galleries, museums and live excavations

in the Guardian’s list of hot places to visit this

that each unearth a little more history of Britain. Everyone who visits the wall will have their own way of doing so, but check out hadrianswallcountry.co.uk/visit for 30 things to see and do. One option for groups is Birdoswald Roman Fort, a few miles east of Carlisle, which offers guided tours and a 15 per cent discount for groups of 11 or more people booking together.

WE’RE HERE TO HELP! Group Travel World’s new Directory lists all the information you need to plan your PHOTOS: VISIT ENGLAND

next trip to attractions across the UK. See directory.grouptravelworld.com – and call Karen on 01733 293489 if you’d Housesteads Roman Fort, near Hadrian’s Wall in Hexham

like to appear in it. It’s great value!

GTW

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Group Travel World - GTG 2019 Brochure FP Apr 2018_Layout 1 08/03/2018 11:40 Page 1

Put yourself in the picture and order your FREE brochure now! SHORT BREAKS & TOURS BY COACH, RAIL OR AIR Greatdays’ Group Travel Guide Brochure is for groups from 15+ persons by coach, rail or air. 164 pages packed with inspirational tour suggestions, new tours, a cruise holiday section and worldwide holidays by air. There’s something for everyone!

TO ORDER YOUR FREE COPY

Tel: 0161 928 3242 Email: sales@greatdays.co.uk Online: www.greatdays.co.uk Follow us on

Untitled-1 21

@GreatdaysTravel

13/04/2018 11:53


THE

VISIT ENGLAND

PLOT THICKENS...

From Capability Brown-inspired designs to botanical havens, we reveal the UK’s best-loved gardens

THE ROYAL GARDENS Highlights for 2018: Prince Charles has become one of the most celebrated royal gardeners, developing extensive gardens at Highgrove in Gloucestershire. While in Scotland, the gardens surrounding the Castle of Mey offer an insight into gardening within

WOBURN ABBEY GARDENS

What’s in it for groups? The gardens

a walled enclosure as well as woodland. One

Highlights for 2018: Woburn’s annual

open this month (from March 23) until

of the most stunning areas is the Shell Garden

Garden Show, which will be held this year

the end of October, and groups of 12

with its old-fashioned roses surrounded by

from June 23-24; and its celebration of

or more get a discount. Guided tours

London Pride, which was a favourite area of

Humphry Repton’s bicentennial year (Repton

of the Bedfordshire Abbey and Gardens

The Queen Mother.

was commissioned in the 1700s to produce

– including a special Repton tour – a joint

What’s in it for groups? Group tours of

designs to improve the gardens and park).

visit with Woburn Safari Park or Bletchley

Highgrove allow visitors to explore everything

Much of Repton’s designs can still be seen

Park, out of hours experiences and

from the Cottage Garden and Stumpery to

today, together with the features introduced

free-flow visits can also be arranged.

the beauty of the Wildflower meadow, along

by fellow gardening greats Henry Holland and

To find out more visit the website at

with the horticultural innovations involved.

Sir Jeffry Wyattville.

www.woburnabbey.co.uk

Lunch in the Orchard Restaurant can be

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Days out VISIT ENGLAND/NICK BAILEY

London’s Chelsea Physic Garden

Woburn Abbey Gardens

included, and a wide variety of plants are

are available for groups of 10 or more,

available to buy in the estate shop. Visit

from Tuesday to Friday, April to October.

www.highgrovegardens.com and

The Tangerine Dream Café can also be

Heading to London this summer?

www.castleofmey.org.uk

booked for groups. Find out more at

Consider a trip to the Garden Museum in

www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk

Lambeth. Situated in the grounds of the

THE CHELSEA PHYSIC GARDEN

former church of St Mary, this is the burial

Highlights for 2018: Tucked away on the

BRESSINGHAM GARDENS

banks of the River Thames is London’s oldest

Highlights for 2018: Bressingham Gardens

hunter in British history, John Tradescant,

botanical garden, with guided tours on offer

on the Norfolk/Suffolk border have had an

who was born in the 16th century. His

taken by knowledgeable volunteer guides.

immense influence on UK garden styles.

tomb is now the centerpiece of the

Its unique microclimate allows the gardeners

It was here that Alan Bloom first developed

Sackler Garden, while elsewhere on site

to grow plants not normally found outside

the idea of using perennials in Island Beds,

are displays relating to the development of

in the UK, including the largest fruiting olive

while Adrian Bloom focused on conifers,

UK gardening, tools and paintings. Among

tree. This is also the location of a unique living

heathers, trees and shrubs in the adjacent

the temporary exhibitions planned for

collection of more than 5,000 edible, useful

Foggy Bottom Garden. Since then newer

2018 are a John Brookes retrospective

and medicinal plants that have had a major

gardens including a winter garden have been

and a Humphrey Repton exhibition. See

impact on the world.

added providing even more inspiration.

www.gardenmuseum.org.uk

What’s in it for groups? Special guided tours

What’s in it for groups? Visits to the

place of the first great gardener and plant

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Days out Kenilworth Castle & Gardens

VISIT ENGLAND/ENGLISH HERITAGE

Winchester Cathedral Flower Festival takes place from September 5-9, see www. winchestercathedral.org.uk gardens can be combined with a trip to

the soaring Tree Top Walkway and Chinese

the Bressingham Steam Museum with

CHELSEA AND MORE…

its garden railway. Find out more at

May sees the return of the renowned

held on the theme of Thailand, while in July,

www.thebressinghamgardens.com

RHS Chelsea Flower Show, held in the

Kew’s Music Festival returns with acts including

grounds of the Royal Hospital, while

Jools Holland and The Human League. In May,

other RHS shows nationwide include

Kew Gardens will see the re-opening of the

Highlights for 2018: The Beth Chatto

Chatsworth and Harlow Car in June, and

world’s largest Victorian glasshouse following

Gardens in Essex demonstrate just how

Hampton Court and Tatton Park in July.

a five-year restoration project. Covering

wonderful gardens can be created in the

Find out more at www.rhs.org.uk

4,880 square metres, the Temperate House

most adverse soils. These seven acres of

– and turn to page 108 for more from

will house over 1,500 plant species, including

garden reflect Beth’s mantra of ‘right plant,

the RHS experts.

some of the world’s rarest. New cutting-edge

THE BETH CHATTO GARDENS

Pagoda. This month, an Orchid Festival is being

right place’, resulting in a Gravel Garden,

displays are also planned, with the aim of

which is never watered as well as gardens

making this stunning building an artistic haven where visitors can learn about and be inspired

for Shady, dry, boggy and wet conditions. The large adjoining nursery stocks more than

and history of the gardens. A large tearoom

by plants.

2,000 varieties of plants, many of which are

overlooks the gardens serving seasonal locally

What’s in it for groups? Discounts are

unavailable elsewhere.

sourced food and home baked cakes. See

available for groups of 15 or more, as well as

What’s in it for groups? Groups can choose

www.bethchatto.co.uk

private tours. Find out more at www.kew.org

snowdrop tours with varieties in bloom as

KEW GARDENS

late as April, a Gravel Garden tour, a head

Highlights for 2018: With more than

CHATSWORTH HOUSE & GARDENS

gardener’s tour and a personalised garden

130 hectares of landscaped gardens, the

Highlights for 2018: The 105-acre gardens

walk offering insights into the philosophy

latest attractions at Kew in London include

at Chatsworth House in Derbyshire are

from a variety of guided tours, including

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Inspiring days out for groups at RHS Gardens

Save up to 50% on repeat visits*

INSPIRED BY THE WINCHESTER BIBLE

5 – 9 SEPTEMBER 2018

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

Contact us for tickets us for tickets CallContact 01962 857275 Callbox.office@winchester-cathedral.org.uk 01962 857275 Email Email box.office@winchester-cathedral.org.uk Visit winchester-cathedral.org.uk Visit winchester-cathedral.org.uk

Living wonder Brimming with horticulture, science and royal heritage

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Contact us for special group rates kew.org/groups 020 8332 5648

13/04/2018 13:52


Days out The Princess of Wales Conservatory at Kew

National treasures The National Trust has more than 200 wonderful gardens to visit, from landscape parks to beautiful flower gardens. Many possess an impressive history, or boast stunning collections. In Norfolk, Sheringham Park combines

VISIT ENGLAND/ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS, KEW/A MCROBB

both of these factors with stunning vistas down to the coast, as well as vast colourful arrays of azaleas and rhododendrons in late spring. Mottisfant is famed for its roses, while at Biddulph Grange you can journey from an Italian terrace to a Chinese inspired garden and an Egyptian pyramid. Find out more at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ gardens-and-parks

home to historic waterworks, a Victorian rock

the attraction was crowned ‘Best Historical

walks and bowers, he laid out a private

garden and maze, rose beds, greenhouses and

Garden for Groups’ in 2017’s Group Travel

garden for the Queen full of colour and

more. The RHS Chatsworth Flower Show takes

Awards – at www.chatsworth.org

fragrance which has since been recreated

place from June 6-10, and you can explore the

according to the original plans.

grounds from this month until early 2019.

KENILWORTH CASTLE & GARDENS

What’s in it for groups? Guided tours of the

Highlights for 2018: Step back still further in

discounts for groups at all English Heritage

gardens provide an opportunity to discover the

time to discover just how the Robert Dudley,

properties, as well as extra incentive (group

heritage and stories behind the many features,

Earl of Leicester sought to impress Elizabeth

leaders go free, for instance). Guided tours can

and how the Capability Brown landscape is

I during her visits to the castle. Not only did

also be arranged. Find out more at

being maintained. Find out more – and see why

he transform the surrounding landscape with

www.english-heritage.org.uk LORNA TREMAYNE/HELIGAN GARDENS LTD

The inside story

What’s in it for groups? There are

Heligan’s Italian Garden

Ever wondered what it’s like to lovingly help maintain one of England’s best-known gardens? For Iain Davies, Head Gardener at the Lost Gardens of Heligan, it’s all in a day’s work... “The Lost Gardens of Heligan are one of the most loved gardens in the country due to its back story of the First World War gardeners who went off to war and never came back, and how the gardens were found again. “We garden in a Victorian manner so visitors can see just how it was maintained before

Iain Davies

the War. We often

here. I’ve also introduced rare breed

for all kinds of guided talks. It’s a great place

get asked about the

animals into the gardens, as this was

to work. We’re lucky with a great climate,

pineapple beds and

part of the original vision of Tim Smit.

and it’s a lovely place to come to work in the

the pineapple plants, which actually fruit

“I do a lot of group tours, and when people come here they can ask

morning, looking out over Mevagissey Bay.” Find out more at www.heligan.com

GTW

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Living Li i the h nation’s i ’ hi history since i 1348

◆ Cemetery

◆ Groups welcome

◆ Monastery

◆ Free museum

◆ Royal refuge

◆ Daily guided tours

◆ Mansion

◆ Gift Shop

◆ Great charity

◆ Thackeray’s Coffee House Visit the Charterhouse and steep yourself in six centuries of history “A tranquil oasis in the heart of London” “Everything a real gem”

The Charterhouse, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6AN www.thecharterhouse.org

Telephone: 020 3818 8873

Email: tours@thecharterhouse.org

House, Park and Gardens open Easter Saturday to 30th September. Groups rates available, organiser goes for free* Groups can book tours of the House or go round at their own pace. Free Parking - Sat Nav AL9 5HX (*Terms and conditions apply)

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PHOTOS: PIXABAY/ALEXAS_FOTOS

From Longleat to Twycross, the UK’s zoos and safari parks bring the world’s wildlife home

Need a heads up? Listen to the call of the wild as we round up the UK’s best animal attractions, stately homes, museums and more...

L

from June 23-24. Find out more at www.longleat.co.uk Then of course there are crocodiles. Lots of them. In Oxfordshire... We kid you not! A GTW award-winner, Crocodiles of the World is the UK’s only crocodile zoo. Hugely popular with families, groups and school trips, it offers keeper experiences, special animal encounters, talks and more. Find out more at www.crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk

ONGLEAT WAS THE first stately home

■ The

to fully open its doors to the public back

Predators exhibition, from this

month until September 3 – think killer

A SCOTTISH HISTORY LESSON

in 1949. Its drive-through safari park wowed

animatronics stalking the park

One of Scotland’s six UNESCO World

crowds when it opened back in 1966,

■ Pop-Up

Heritage Sites of Outstanding Universal

and today the Wiltshire estate continues

2019, with more than 100 hand-painted

Value, and less than an hour from Glasgow

its pioneering approach with a host of

pandas set to descend on the estate

and Edinburgh, New Lanark is a living

group-friendly events for 2018, including:

■ The

and working village by the Falls of Clyde

Pandas, from May until January 6,

Longleat Food & Drink Festival,

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Days out Penshurst Place & Gardens

VISIT ENGLAND/VISIT KENT

Exclusive offer! Get 2 courses for just £10.50 at London’s Rainforest Cafe – see grouptraveloffers. com

(see www.newlanark.org). It hosts

hand. He commented on the girls kneading

when that certain person happens to have

regular events and exhibitions, including

the explosive mixture ‘into a sort of

a house filled with treasures. At Ragley Hall,

exhibitions held in the 18th century mills.

Devil’s Porridge’ – and the name stuck.

Park & Gardens in Warwickshire, house

Delve further into Scottish history at the

England’s bloodthirsty past is revealed at

tours, head gardener talks and afternoon

Devil’s Porridge Museum in Eastriggs, Dumfries

Bosworth Battlefield in Leicestershire – the site

tea are all on offer, opening the doors on

and Galloway (www.devilsporridge.org.uk).

of one of the country’s most famous battles,

this 300-year-old Grade I listed mansion.

Awarded the full five stars by Visit Scotland,

which resulted in Henry Tudor winning the

Throughout the year it’s home to country fairs

this fantastically named attraction tells

English crown from Richard III. Expect to meet

and special events (see www.ragley.co.uk).

the story of how the local area – and

costumed characters and see real life artefacts

Over in Kent, and hailed as a ‘Grand place

HM Factory Gretna – flourished into a hub

that interpret one of the biggest events in our

on a charming scale,’ Penshurst Place is home

of wartime activity.

history – and turn to page 102 to discover

to a number of events over the summer

why the attraction’s now a GTW award-winner.

(see www.penshurstplace.com).

If, like us, you were wondering about the name, it’s inspired by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, author of the Sherlock Holmes

See www.bosworthbattlefield.org.uk

Our pick includes the Glorious Gardens Weekend, from June 2-3, the Head

series, who while visiting the factory

BRINGING HISTORY TO LIFE

as a war correspondent witnessed the

Who doesn’t love a good old nose around

Penshurst’s run of Summer Sundays, from

munitions girls mixing the guncotton by

someone else’s home – and it’s a bonus

the end of July until early September.

Gardener’s Tour & Tea on June 3, and

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Days out PIXABAY

Find out more at twycrosszoo .org

As Nikki explains, giraffes have one or two tricks up their sleeves...

“Giraffes can lick their own eyeballs!” NIKKI STANTON

Nikki Stanton, Discovery and Learning Team Leader at Twycross Zoo in Leicestershire, reveals what’s on offer for visitors over the summer

GTW: What can we expect when we visit?

colleges and university groups, or out in the

GTW: What are your tips for making

Nikki: There’s always something fantastic

zoo presenting a talk about black-headed

the most of a day at the zoo?

happening at Twycross Zoo, no matter

spider monkeys. You might also find me in one

Nikki: Arrive early! We open at 10am

what time of the year you visit. There

of our walk-through exhibits, where guests

each day, but you can grab a coffee and

are daily animal talks, you can chat to

can feed the lorikeets, or chatting to guests

enjoy the soft play in the Himalaya before

our knowledgeable education rangers

in Butterfly Forest or Lemur Encounters.

the park opens. First thing is also the best

in our walk-through enclosures, and

One thing is consistent: I’ll be talking!

chance to catch a glimpse of our family

we also offer animal encounters, such

We love guests asking questions and

of snow leopards. You’ll be handed a map,

as feeding penguins or giraffes.

talking about the animals, whether it’s

so pick out the talks you would like to

about the conservation work of the

attend (the penguin parade is always

home to all four greats apes – bonobo,

zoo, breeding programmes, enrichment

a firm family favourite).

chimpanzee, orang utan and gorillas.

or the individual animals. You can find

We also have the world’s rarest big

our education team members in pale

GTW: Which are your favourite animals?

cat, the Amur leopard, plus a colony of

blue and we look forward to answering

Nikki: We have so many wonderful animals

Humboldt penguins, to name but a few.

your weird and wonderful questions.

at Twycross Zoo, and they all have their

GTW: What does your typical working

GTW: What special offers do you have

pick a favourite. The bonobos, who are our

day at the zoo involve?

for groups and larger families?

closest living relatives, are always up to

Nikki: As the Discovery and Learning Team

Nikki: Groups of 20 or more get discounted

mischief and the giraffes are amazing too

Leader, no two days are the same. I can be

entry, with free coach parking and entry

– they have a tongue so long they

assisting the award-winning education team

for the driver (call 01827 883123 or

can clean their own eyeballs or

with delivering sessions to visiting schools,

email bookings@twycrosszoo.org).

pick their nose with it!

Twycross is the only UK zoo to be

own incredible personalities, I couldn’t possibly

GTW

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UNLOCK

s n. de d oo ui e s G ect ng io el mi ud s o A ith s c w ge ua ng

la

Experience

1,100 years of history An incredible journey through , years of coronations, battles, political upheavals and technological advances – all commemorated in painstaking detail by skilful artists and craftspeople.

History repeated

Go behind the scenes at one of the UK’s oldest manufacturers and feast your eyes on thousands of coins as they are being made and unlock the history of The Royal Mint.

Tour two historic Warwick venues in one day

T

WO ICONIC

the 700-year living

The tours are

venues in

history of The Lord

available to book

Warwick – The Lord

Leycester Hospital

throughout the year

Leycester Hospital

(a mini version of

from Tuesday to

and St Marys Church

the Royal Hospital

Saturday – download

– have partnered

Chelsea but much

the app ‘Warwick

to create a full day

older), and the

Town Of Treasures’

of guided tours.

beautiful Collegiate

at www.warwick

Church of St Mary,

tour.oncell.com,

the Medieval and

with its architecturally

which showcases both

Elizabethan heritage

acclaimed

sites. Or see www.

of Warwick, featuring

Beauchamp Chapel.

lordleycester.com

The tour highlights

royalmint.com/experience To find out more and make a booking telephone 0333 241 2223 The Royal Mint Experience is approximately  miles from Junction  of the M and just  miles from Cardiff. www.Facebook.com/TheRoyalMintExperience 4.9 4.9 www.tripadvisor.co.uk 4.5 4.5 www.Twitter.com/RoyalMintExp

Bring your groups to London’s oldest botanic garden and unlock our remarkable stories and plant collection Reduced ticket price for groups of ten or more

Award winning café and garden shop open: Monday - Friday, Sundays 11am-6pm Chelsea Physic Garden 66 Royal Hospital Road, London SW3 4HS groups@chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk 020 7352 5646 chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk Group Travel 2.indd 1

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13/04/2018 14:38


Days out

Defenders of the faith

PORTCHESTER CASTLE The imposing baronial castle of Portchester at the northern end of Portsmouth Harbour

Our green and pleasant land is littered with castles and ruins, all standing as testimony to a history rich in conquests and battles

was a strategic embarkation point for

Photos: Visit England

seen intact in Britain. Find out more at

IN THE SOUTH

CORFE CASTLE

several campaigns to France and has housed, among others, the Romans, Normans and Plantagenets. Built within a former Roman fort, the 2,000 year-old walls rise to six metres – the highest such walls to be www.english-heritage.org.uk

carried out its duties of defending the Isle of Wight for more than nine centuries. It served

LEEDS CASTLE

In a gap in Dorset’s Purbeck Hills sits the

as a prison for King Charles I before his trial

Not in Leeds of course, but nestled in

stunning ruins of Corfe Castle, an 11th century

and execution, and groups can see the room

the stunning Kent countryside, Leeds

stronghold built by William the Conqueror, and

from which he attempted to escape (sadly for

Castle can claim one of the richest and

one of the earliest in England to be built from

him he got stuck in the window bars).

most varied histories of our castles,

stone. It has served as a fearsome fortification,

The castle’s Edwardian-inspired garden

having turned from Norman stronghold

a royal residence and a perilous prison, but

celebrates the time when Queen Victoria’s

was demolished in March 1645 during the

daughter stayed at the castle in her role

English Civil War. Find out more at www.

as Governor of the Isle of Wight. And for

attractions aplenty and a huge range of

nationaltrust.org.uk/corfe-castle

added regal-ness, you can combine it with

events, including falconry displays and

a visit to Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s

medieval jousting. And with groups and

holiday hideaway, Osborne, at East Cowes.

families at its heart, the castle offers a discount

Its imposing gatehouse, high keep and

Visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/

to groups of 15 or more. Find out more

ramparts have ensured Carisbrooke Castle has

carisbrookecastle

at www.leeds-castle.com/groups

CARISBROOKE CASTLE

to royal seat. Today, there are gardens to explore, family

Corfe Castle in Dorset

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HOME OF THE CHIEFS OF CLAN MACLEOD FOR 800 YEARS

LOCH DUNVEGAN SEAL TRIPS

Voted ‘1 of the Best UK Days Out’ by The Sunday Times Travel Magazine OPEN: 1 APRIL - 15 OCTOBER 10AM - 5.30PM (LAST ENTRY 5PM) DUNVEGAN CASTLE, ISLE OF SKYE IV55 8WF T: +44 (0) 1470 521206 E: INFO@DUNVEGANCASTLE.COM WWW.DUNVEGANCASTLE.COM

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Days out RESTORMEL CASTLE

coastline in an Area of Outstanding Natural

missed – tucked away in Leicestershire’s

Together with Launceston, Trematon and

Beauty. Myths and legends of bloodshed

Vale of Belvoir, it’s considered one of the

Tintagel, Restormel Castle is one of the four

and ghosts abound, with endless towers and

finest examples of Regency architecture

chief Norman castles of Cornwall. Built in

ramparts to explore and coastal views all the

in the world. It has been the home of the

the 13th century and noted for its perfectly

way out to Lindisfarne. There are 14 state

Duke of Rutland’s family since 1067, and

circular design, it was once the residence of

rooms open to visitors, with the rest occupied

groups of 20 or more can enjoy a guided

the Earl of Cornwall.

by the Armstrong family, who have owned it

tour of the castle, as well as entry to the

since 1894. Visit www.bamburghcastle.com

grounds, which is home to a Rose Garden,

The castle was passed from nobility to royalty, even falling under the remit of the famed

Japanese Woodland and more.

Black Prince before being taken by royalists in

DUNVEGAN CASTLE

the Civil War and abandoned soon after. Plan

Hugh MacCleod is the 30th Chief of the

Brown had a hand in the gardens’ design,

your trip at www.english-heritage.org.uk

MacCleod Clan and lives with his family in what

and a Capability tour is also available. Visit

is Scotland’s longest continuously inhabited

www.belvoircastle.com

IN THE NORTH

BAMBURGH CASTLE

castle. This is a gem of a castle in a beautiful

Unsurprisingly, Lancelot ‘Capability’

location with a first class garden, fascinating

WARWICK CASTLE

The Anglo-Saxons described it as ‘The

exhibits and good food at the MacCleod Tables

History, magic and myth, staged in one of

most important place in all England’ and, for

Café. Visit www.dunvegancastle.com

England’s most amazing castles... Behind

atmosphere, Bamburgh Castle is hard to beat. Reputed to be one of our most photographed

IN THE MIDLANDS

castles, it spans nine acres across its rocky

BELVOIR CASTLE

plateau high above the Northumberland

This gem of a Regency castle is not to be

Warwick Castle’s mighty walls lies the heart of the castle and its beautiful, grand interiors, where you can marvel at the Great Hall, explore the lavish state rooms, and experience

Warwick Castle – save on tickets at grouptraveloffers.com

Kenilworth Castle

Carisbrooke Castle in the Isle of Wight

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Fonmon Castle & Gardens - South Wales 800 years of history and stunning Georgian interiors - just 25 minutes from Cardiff and M4 Open year round for pre-booked tour groups: ● Exclusive group castle tours with experienced tour guide ● Delicious home cooked teas served in the beautiful Rococo library ● Visitors free to wander and explore the delightful gardens ● Ample free on-site parking, drivers receive complimentary refreshments ● 2018 Offers: Organiser goes free

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Days out

Bamburgh Castle

the tranquillity of the Earl’s private Chapel.

table. It’s believed that in 1283 the fortified

If this medieval wonderland has you keen

manor house hosted the first Parliament of

Raising the flag

to travel back in time, get a group of seven

England in which the Commons was fully

It’s rare to be able to appreciate the

or more together to benefit from group

represented. It was a potent symbol of the

exact reason why a historic site fell into

discounts. And for the best ticket deals, visit

status of Chancellor Robert Burnell and,

ruin, but at Goodrich Castle, between

our sister site www.grouptraveloffers.com

unlike many castles ruined by the ravages of

Monmouth and Ross-on-Wye, the

war, Acton Burnell died as the family lineage

cannon that dealt its heaviest blows,

did, falling to ruin over many years. Visit

known as ‘Roaring Meg’, is on display.

ASHBY DE LA ZOUCH CASTLE The ruined fortification of Ashby de la Zouch Castle towers majestically above the

www.english-heritage.org.uk

William Wordsworth described the ruined Norman medieval castle as ‘the

Leicestershire countryside. The original 11th

KENILWORTH CASTLE

century manor house was added to over the

Used as a Lancastrian base during the Wars of

played a vital role in the English Civil

centuries, but damaged during the English

the Roses, Kenilworth Castle in Warwickshire

War, passing between the Royalists

Civil War, falling into disrepair under the

is described as ‘the finest surviving example

and Parliamentarians in violent clashes

Parliamentarians. Today, The Great Tower

of a semi-royal palace of the later Middle

until finally falling into disrepair.

remains open and offers amazing views of

Ages’ and is significant for its role in one of

Find out more at www.triphistoric.

the surrounding landscape. Find out more at

history’s most famous love stories. In 1563,

com/goodrich-castle-1456/

www.english-heritage.org.uk

Kenilworth became the home of the Earl of

ACTON BURNELL CASTLE

noblest ruin in Herefordshire’ and it

And thanks to Trip Historic for their

Leicester, the one true love of Elizabeth I. His

help with this feature. The leading online

alterations point to his affection for her but

travel guide to the world’s historic sites,

As important and beautiful ruins go, Acton

was destroyed during the Civil War and left to

see www.triphistoric.com

Burnell Castle in Shropshire sits at the top

ruin. Visit www.english-heritage.org.uk

GTW

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Enjoy a historic rt of Dorset day out in the hea

Athelhampton

House & Gardens

•Tudor Manor House with antique furnishings & Art Gallery •Grade Grade 1 listed Formal gardens with famous yew pyramids •New Kitchen garden restoration •Outstanding visitor facilities •Gift shop & Plant sales •Refreshment stops welcome without admission •Open all year for booked groups

Easily found, just off the A35 between Dorchester & Poole Athelhampton House & Gardens, Dorchester, Dorset DT2 7LG

www.athelhampton.co.uk 01305 848363

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Alnwick Castle

Can’t make it to Alnwick? Visit Harry Potter: A History of Magic (www.bl.uk/ harry-potter) at the British Library in London, which is open until February 18, 2019

DAYS OUT FOR SCHOOL KIDS

Unleash your kids (and your inner child) as we explore the best spots in Britain to make learning fun – and magical GREAT FOR YOUNGSTERS

VISIT ENGLAND/NEWCASTLE GATESHEAD

12 best... of the

1 Fly like a wizard

Ditch school in favour of Hogwarts...

As the publication of Harry Potter and

Broomstick training workshops, medieval

more can enjoy a number of discounts and

the Philosopher’s Stone passes its 20th

dressing up sessions and tours of the

benefits, and book the ‘Alnwick on Location’

anniversary, what better place to celebrate

state rooms and grounds.

tour, complete with a costumed interpreter

than Hogwarts itself? Of course we’re talking

The castle, which sits between Newcastle

who’ll take you on a cinematic journey

Alnwick Castle, and there’s plenty to do

and Edinburgh, is the second largest inhabited

around the grounds.

at this 14th century castle, including

home of its kind in England. Groups of 14 or

■ Visit www.alnwickcastle.com

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Days out

2 Wave your magic wand Get a feel for all things wizard

The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The

the Triwizard Champions’ parchments were

Making of Harry Potter is just that. Real sets,

expelled from the Goblet, even receiving a

real props, and a real sense of how the much-

souvenir parchment to remember their visit.

loved films were made.

Potter fans can also discover behind-

This month sees the launch of Harry

the-scenes secrets of He-Who-Must-Not-

Potter and the Goblet of Fire – a special

Be-Named in a display demonstrating how

feature dedicated to the fourth instalment

Voldemort’s seemingly simple costume

of the magical film series, revealing

was adapted to show both his strength

secrets behind the characters, costumes

and vulnerability throughout the films.

and props that made it so special. As part of the feature, The Goblet of Fire

Goblet of Fire will run until this autumn (September 23), and is included in the

4 Tuck in...

Enjoy Cadbury World

will be returned to the Great Hall for the

ticket price. And as the attraction’s

first time since filming wrapped in 2010.

just three miles off the M25 and

With more than 2,000 school groups visiting

Every visitor to the Great Hall will see a live

M1 it’s a doddle to get to.

each year, Cadbury World offers pupils a

Special Effects demonstration showing how

■ Visit

unique look into the rich heritage of the

www.wbstudiotour.co.uk

nation’s favourite chocolate brand. There’s plenty to discover through an informative selfguided tour, including a trip back 1,000 years to the Aztec Jungle to discover the origins of the humble cocoa bean. Cadbury World offers a range of free downloadable resources and workbooks for teachers as well as free preview visits. Schools also benefit from discounts. ■ Visit

www.cadburyworld.co.uk/

schools-and-groups – and to win Cadbury World tickets see grouptravelworld.com

GREAT FOR TEENAGERS

5 Go underground

Explore Cumbria’s darker side The Lake District’s Honister Slate Mine allows groups and families to explore the original slate miners’ route to the top of the mountain – The Via Ferrata – a not-for-the-vertigo-suffering series of metal ladders that take you up to the top of the mountain. For a weatherproof climb, you can also choose to Climb the Mine, following the route Meet Longleat’s gorgeous red pandas

of the original underground mine workings. Go deep underground to explore a secret world of hidden passages and caverns where

3

miners used to extract rock for roofing

Go wild

slates, while tackling vertical climbs, rope

Hang with the pandas

bridge crossings and steel ladder ascents. No previous climbing experience is needed,

The staff at Longleat Safari Park in Wiltshire

free safari park commentary CD for coaches

but if some group members like to keep

are used to dealing with flocks and packs...

and mini buses can also be arranged. Go for

their feet on the ground, there are tours

save at least 30% on pre-booked tickets for

a safari-only group day ticket or a flexi-ticket

of the mine also on offer. These tours may

parties of 12 or more, and get a free organiser

for the safari park as well as Longleat House

involve some steep but safe scrambling,

ticket if there are 30 or more of you. Coach

& Gardens (where tours are available).

and groups of 12 or more get a discount.

drivers go free, and parking’s free and easy. A

■ Visit

■ Visit

www.longleat.co.uk/groups

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Days out Bounce in Zip World’s underground caverns

7 Dare to dip

Come face to face with evil goo

Remember that scene in Ghostbusters where the guys climb out of the manhole covered in evil goo? A tour of Brighton’s sewers is remarkably similar... This rather quirky tour takes you along 400 yards of the 30 miles of sewers that wind beneath the streets of Brighton. Groups of up to 25 can head underground, suitably kitted out in hard hats and protective gloves to discover the secrets lying beneath their feet. ■ Visit

www.southernwater.co.uk/

brighton-sewer-tours

6 Zip it!

Fly through the air, then bounce like a pro

With three locations across north Wales to

longest in Europe, often reaching speeds

glide across (Penrhyn, Blaenau Ffestiniog

well in excess of 100mph. And the adventure

and Betws-y-Coed), Zip World is famous

doesn’t stop there. The three attractions

for its zip wires, which are fast – and long.

also offer forest roller coasters, treetop nets

So long, in fact, they’re record breaking:

and even caverns to explore, filled with

Zip World Velocity at Zip World Penrhyn

bouncy nets.

Quarry is the fastest in the world and the

■ Visit

For special rates on tickets to family and school-friendly attractions see grouptraveloffers.com – including 40% off entry to Alton Towers

www.zipworld.co.uk

GREAT FOR ALL AGES

like 8 Live a queen

See Windsor as never before Windsor Castle may not be Hogwarts, but it has a rich history stretching back 1,000 years – and when fire broke out there in 1992 it made headline news around the world. Groups of all ages can learn more about this devastating event and the skilled work carried out to restore the castle. You’ll hear the dramatic story of the battle to stop the flames and save works of art from the Royal Collection, and the subsequent restoration project. The visit begins with a snack and an expert talk, before a tour of the State Apartments, including areas transformed by the awardwinning restoration work. Restoring Windsor: The Castle after the Fire runs until 22 VISIT ENGLAND

December 2018 for groups of 15-54. Windsor Castle

■ Visit

www.royalcollection.org.uk/

visit/windsorcastle

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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 2014 National Coach Tourism Awards Winner

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

roup-Advert-GTW-93x134-AW.indd 1

Visit Leicestershire’s award-winning

Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre and Country Park

• Award-winning exhibition • Exciting events programme • Guided and self-led walks • Licensed restaurant • Family activity t h e B a r n R e s ta u r a n t Pre-booking room

aurant

A great family day out !

06/01/2017 17:29

required for coach group visits - quote GTW18 when enquiring/booking

BOSWORTH

MEDIEVAL festival 18 & 1

9 August 201

www.bosworthbattlefield.org.uk /BosworthBattlefield

QP Template.indd 41

@bosworthlcc

/BosworthBattlefield

8

Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, Sutton Cheney, CV13 0AD Tel: 01455 290429 email: bosworth@leics.gov.uk

13/04/2018 14:08


Days out

The Mary Rose sails again The Mary Rose now resides safe and dry in Portsmouth’s Dockyard,

Hampton Court Palace

which is home to several impressive historic naval ships.

VISIT ENGLAND/HISTORIC ROYAL PALACES

Live like it’s the 1500s

9

11 Party at the palace

There are discounted rates for groups of over 15 – you can opt for

We are most amused

ticket solely for The Mary Rose or grab a ticket to all attractions on the dockyard. There’s a great groups

Historic Royal Palaces is an independent

society, in some of the greatest palaces ever

section on the website, as well as some

charity that looks after the Tower of London,

built. To find out more, visit www.hrp.org.uk –

great interactive technology, such as

Hampton Court Palace, the Banqueting House,

and get set to explore the likes of Kensington

downloadable apps to help kids enjoy

Kensington Palace, Kew Palace and Hillsborough

Palace, Banqueting House in Whitehall,

their visit.

Castle. Its aim is to help everyone explore the

Kew Palace in Kew Gardens and more.

■ Visit www.maryrose.org

story of how monarchs and people have shaped

■ Visit www.hrp.org.uk

10

a head 12 Get for heights

No prizes for spotting Europe’s tallest building...

Stand for Parliament

Enjoy a view like no other

Could you be Prime Minister?

Europe’s tallest building at 800ft (244m), The Shard has redefined London’s skyline, standing

a tour of one of the city’s most iconic sights,

at almost twice the height of any other vantage

and the Houses of Parliament welcomes

point in London. Visitors can experience 360°

groups of all ages throughout the year.

views over the city for up to 40 miles on a

A range of ticketed audio, guided and

clear day, after beginning their journey in the

occasional themed tours are available,

attraction’s high-speed lifts that zoom from

and special rates are available for groups

level one to level 68 in just 60 seconds.

of 10 or more. ■ Visit

www.parliament.uk

VISIT BRITAIN

No visit to London is complete without

■ Visit

www.the-shard.com or

www.theviewfromtheshard.com

Let us take you places... ...and save you money. Our sister site grouptraveloffers.com is here to help you book your next group trip. Here’s just a taste of the familyand school trip-friendly offers we’ve got lined up ■ Get a third off Shrek’s

entry at Thorpe Park

Adventure London tickets

Buy your tickets through

Step into the kingdom of far, far

grouptraveloffers.com and save

Get a third off tickets to Shrek’s Adventure London

away for just £17.50.

48% on tickets to this Surrey

■ Save over a third off tickets

attraction. Get there for just

PLUS...

to LEGOLAND Windsor

£27... if you’re brave enough!

Barnard Castle in County

Yep, that’s a hefty 38% off

■ Save over 40% off

Durham for just £3; Carisbrooke

Buy now, pay later

tickets to this world-class

Warwick Castle

Castle in the Isle of Wight for

No group minimum

attraction, with children’s tickets

It’s a place of mayhem and

just over a fiver; Kenilworth

just £30 and adults £34.

magic, made all the more magical

Castle in Warwickshire for £6

human being? Then call us!

■ Enjoy virtually half price

with our £15 entry tickets.

– and scores more offers.

01733 293249

Find the best deals at grouptraveloffers.com

Prefer to speak to an actual GTW

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wmsp.co.uk

A NEW AGE IS HERE west Midland SAfari Park, Spring Grove, Bewdley, Worcs, DY12 1LF Untitled-1 43

13/04/2018 11:54


GTW news Watch Harley’s presentation at Facebook.com/ grouptravelworld

Harley (standing) ahead of her presentation

VISIT ENGLAND

A foreign exchange

Kenilworth Castle

GTW’s Harley Denham joined the Comuni-co English Language Coaching Services last month to share her experiences of the travel industry in the UK

C

REATED TO HELP foreign students

Group Travel World team were keen to get

learn the English language in a way

involved with a recent study day organised by

that suits them, Comuni-co offers a range of made-to-measure courses, holidays

Comuni-co for some of its Italian students. GTW’s Harley Denham was asked

and home tuition designed to complement

to do a presentation to the students to

each student’s studies – whether they’re

explain how the magazine and its spin-

at school, university or simply keen to

off brands, including the ticket offers site

JOIN OUR EDUCATIONAL FAM TRIPS!

learn the language as an adult, either

grouptraveloffers.com, work together to

Here at Group Travel World magazine

for fun or to help them in their work.

help promote group tourism in the UK.

we organise a number of fam trips every

Run by a small team of experienced

“Working with Comuni-co we helped

year to attractions that are ideal for

language teachers, translators and

educate a number of travel and tourism

school groups. Last year we took group

interpreters, foreign students can opt

students on the group travel industry in the

travel organisers to Kenilworth Castle

to take a study holiday on an exchange

UK,” says Harley. “We also offered support

(pictured here), Newmarket, Windsor and

programme – staying with a host family or

from our new recruitment website www.

The Kia Oval. To register your interest in

in a hotel with other students – or choose

traveljobsworld.com – to help students find

future fam trips, email emma.parkes@

a more individual style of learning.

a job once they’ve finished their studies.”

grouptravelworld.com

The Peterborough-based company strives to put students’ needs first, and the

GTW

Find out more about Comunico at www.comuni-co.co.uk

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GOING FOR GOLD WITH GROUP DISCOUNTS

GROUPS

OF 10+

PREMIER TICKETS £18 G&P TICKETS £12

THE CAMBRIDGESHIRE MEETING T H U R S 2 7 TH, F R I 2 8 TH & S AT 2 9 TH S E P T E M B E R The Cambridgeshire Meeting is one of the major highlights of The Gold Season. It’s not just the high quality of the horseracing

Garden Enclosure throughout the day including

that makes the Cambridgeshire Meeting so

inflatables, face painters and Rowley’s Kids Club.

special. Newmarket’s fantastic Beer & Cider

With three fantastic days of racing, this meeting

Festival, which runs throughout the meeting,

comes to its climax on Saturday with the key

showcases some of the best brews from the

race, the famous Cambridgeshire Heritage

local area and further afield. There will be dozens

Handicap. The race, which is the first leg of the

of real ales and ciders for racegoers to sample

historic Autumn Double, is an amazing spectacle

in the dedicated marquee, plus live music and

to behold as thirty horses thunder up the

much more!

Rowley Mile.

Saturday is a fantastic day for families. There will be plenty of free entertainment in the

THE DUBAI FUTURE C H A M P I O N S F E S T I VA L F R I 1 2 TH & S AT 1 3 TH O C T O B E R The two-day Dubai Future Champions Festival combines world-class racing with amazing entertainment. Friday is Newmarket’s annual Autumn Ladies

and Saturday. Après Racing is free to attend for

Day and features The Style Awards sponsored

all racegoers so be sure to visit The Boulevard

By The Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel. Ladies

after the last race.

are invited to rock their best look for the

On the track the best juvenile horses in training

judges of the free to enter Best Dressed Lady

go head-to-head, with the bet365 Fillies’ Mile

Competition, where there is the chance to win

on the Friday and the Darley Dewhurst Stakes

thousands of pounds worth of prizes.

on the Saturday. Another racing highlight is the

There will be fantastic free entertainment

Cesarewitch Heritage Handicap, the second

for all the family to enjoy throughout the

leg of the historic Autumn Double, and often

Festival including Après Racing, Newmarket

nicknamed ‘the Grand National of the flat’.

Racecourses’ official after party, on both Friday

GROUPS

OF 20+

PREMIER TICKETS £15 G&P TICKETS £10

Organiser goes free and free racecards for the group (one between two)

MUST QUOTE GROUPS18 FOR BOOKINGS – CALL 01638 675500 (OPTION 4) O R E M A I L N E W M A R K E T. B OXO F F I C E @ T H E J O C K E YC L U B . C O . U K Free coach parking available on site and the driver gets free entry. The driver will be given a form to complete that needs to be taken to the Free Pass Office on the day with the work docket.

NEWMARKETRACECOURSES.CO.UK

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fast The

& the

furious

In search of glamour, speed and the odd flutter? Time for a day at the races...

R

IGHT NOW, AS the summer 2018 racing calendar comes under starter’s orders,

where better to experience a day’s action than at the sport’s British HQ, Newmarket. Known worldwide as the home of racing, Newmarket Racecourse has around 40 race days planned for this year – from next month’s QIPCO Guineas Festival on May 5 to the Moët & Chandon July Festival from July 12-14. Visit newmarket. thejockeyclub.co.uk, choose your date and book in advance to take advantage of up to 25 per cent off for larger groups. While you’re here, don’t miss Newmarket’s

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Days out With its all-weather and turf tracks, there are races at Southwell Racecourse in Nottinghamshire all year round, and the course has proven a well-loved fixture for race-goers since the late 1800s. See www.southwellracecourse.co.uk

Racing at the Adnams July Course in Newmarket

fellow attractions – all of which have a

AND THEY’RE OFF!

‘Live at the races’ concerts – with the

Thoroughbred pedigree. Discover Newmarket

Newmarket aside, Britain’s home to

Lightning Seeds playing on May 18 and

is the Suffolk town’s official tour guide,

world-class tracks, from the wonderful

Craig David on June 15. Find out more at

employing an experienced team (including

Aintree to the legendary Goodwood.

aintree.thejockeyclub.co.uk

17 expert tour guides) to offer visitors

Here, we round up some of our favourites

the opportunity to see behind the scenes

that are guaranteed to get your crowd

at racing’s world-famous headquarters.

going this summer...

for groups, families and individuals over

AINTREE RACECOURSE

The home of Royal Ascot, which will be held from June 19-23 this year,

half a day, a full day or longer, and will even

Merseyside

arrange accommodation too. As well as

Best known for its legendary Grand National

with discounts available for groups

the racecourse, attractions include The

(which takes place this month, on April 14),

of 10 or more – visit www.ascot.co.uk

National Stud and Palace House. Find out

Aintree is a giant among jump courses.

for more on all the packages available

more at www.discovernewmarket.co.uk

This summer’s line-up includes two

for groups of all sizes.

Ascot offers all-year-round racing,

DISCOVER NEWMARKET

They’re on hand to arrange guided tours

ASCOT RACECOURSE Berkshire

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Days out Racing at Doncaster

two 52-seater coaches at the same time – and all coach parties of 20 or more

Home to the famous St Leger meet (St Leger

get a 15% discount on entry to its

day is September 15 this year), Doncaster

National Hunt race meetings. See

Racecourse has fixtures throughout the year,

www.fakenhamracecourse.co.uk

including this month’s Spring Afternoon Flat Racing on April 27. For full ticket details see www.doncaster-racecourse.co.uk

GREAT YARMOUTH RACECOURSE

GOODWOOD RACECOURSE West Sussex Goodwood Racecourse is set to host 19 days of racing in 2018, including the world-renowned Qatar Goodwood Festival,

ALAN CROWHURST/GETTY IMAGES FOR ASCOT RACECOURSE

DONCASTER RACECOURSE South Yorkshire

Norfolk

one of the highlights of the international flat

This month marks the start of Great Yarmouth’s

racing season. A Festival of Food and Racing

racing calendar, with its Season Opener race

will take place in late May, showcasing the

day on April 24. It’s well worth booking en

best of Goodwood’s own Home Farm produce.

masse if you’re going with friends, as there

While in June, the Three Friday Nights fixtures

are discounts for groups of 15 or more,

take place on consecutive Friday evenings and

as well as great value hospitality packages.

feature DJ sets from Rudimental, Example and

three days of racing begin on the Friday

Find out more about the 2018 line-up at

Steve Aoki after racing.

evening, with the action followed by a

www.greatyarmouth-racecourse.co.uk

The Qatar Goodwood Festival, known

Over the August Bank Holiday weekend,

spectacular fireworks display set to music.

as ‘Glorious Goodwood,’ is a quintessentially

The curtain comes down on the Racecourse at

English summer garden party, with top-class

Season Finale in October, when the theme is

Norfolk

horseracing accompanied by fine fashion, food

Harvest, Hops and Horseracing.

With race meets throughout the year,

and drink. Ladies’ Day features the Magnolia

Kids go free to all of Goodwood’s racing

Fakenham’s Prince of Wales stand can

Cup, a charity race for inspirational women

fixtures and general admission tickets for adults

accommodate large groups – up to

from business, sport, media and medicine.

start from £12. See goodwood.com

FAKENHAM RACECOURSE

GTW

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Go Behind the Scenes Discover Newmarket offers a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes at racing’s headquarters to learn about the fascinating history, heritage and culture of the town.

Prices from

£11

per person

Exclusive access to Trainer yards and studs

Meet the

equine stars

email admin@discovernewmarket.co.uk

Fun family days at top attractions!

@DiscoverNkt erNkt

/discovernewmarket

@DiscoverNkt

visit www.discovernewmarket.co.uk call 0344 748 9200

19 fantastic days of horseracing and entertainment from May to October

Group tickets from £9.60 per person Groups of 10 or more SAVE 20% on all fixtures, including the world-famous Qatar Goodwood Festival (‘Glorious Goodwood’) from 31 July – 4 August.

Contact Tom Smith on 01243 755016 or email tom.smith@goodwood.com

goodwood.com/grouptravel

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Scotland

A Highland fling 4 very good reasons to head north this summer...

1

best-known historic figures, including Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie. You can also learn how the palace is used today by The Queen when she’s carrying out official engagements in Scotland. Discounts are available for groups of 15 or more. See www.royalcollection.org.uk/visit/ palace-of-holyroodhouse

The Galloway Country Fair, which

fellow residents, and discover the history of

takes place every August at Drumlanrig

this uniquely preserved attraction. Mary King’s

4

Fancy a wee dram? The fabulous

Castle and Country Estate in the heart of

Close is hailed as the city’s deepest secret

Dumfries and Galloway, offers a true taste

– a warren of hidden streets frozen in time

of Scottish country life. This year’s show

since the 17th century. Hour-long tours reveal

famous exports, whisky. And at Edinburgh’s

runs from August 18-19 – expect

how the people of the close lived, and there

Scotch Whisky Experience the revamped

entertainment as well as country sports,

are discounts for pre-booked tours of 15 or

Sense of Scotland tour takes visitors on a

rural crafts and children’s activities. See

more. See www.realmarykingsclose.com

180° bird’s eye tour of Scotland’s five

www.gallowaycountryfair.co.uk

3

whisky-making regions. You’ll see Scotland’s

2

PIXABAY

associations with some of Scotland’s

Edinburgh’s award-winning The Real Mary King’s Close celebrated record

Scottish landscape has an important role

to play in producing one of the country’s most

The Queen’s official residence in

landscape come to life in this experience,

Edinburgh, and home of Scottish royal

which demonstrates how the landscape and

history, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is open

geography of the country contributes towards

visitor numbers last year, with visitors keen to

throughout the year, giving visitors the chance

the flavour of different Scotch whiskies. See

walk in the footsteps of Mary King and her

to explore the palace and discover its close

www.scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk

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Make a moo-ve this summer and explore Scotland’s countryside, history and heritage

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Llancaiach Fawr Y lle perffaith ar gyfer… The perfect place for … Hanes yn dod yn fyw

History brought vividly to life

l it iau s r l i io a s r l Hu l it iau a s

l ost tours l u c sa i l r a t as l Historical tours

ol

rs

01443 412248 • www.llancaiachfawr.co.uk

Banbury Photography

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

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The harbour town of Tenby in south west Wales

Into the

sunset

Discover all Wales has to offer, from coast to mountain

PIXABAY/TIM HILL

T

HE 870-MILE WALES Coast Path,

as you explore the depths. Or stick to

Velocity at Zip World Penrhyn Quarry is

which opened back in 2012, may have

ground level and take the quarry explorer

the fastest in the world and the longest in

drawn yet more tourists to this glorious

tour for an off-road adventure into the

Europe, often reaching speeds well in excess

stretch of the British Isles, but there’s far

Llechwedd mountains. Find out more at

of 100mph. See www.zipworld.co.uk

more to Wales than its stunning coastline,

www.llechwedd-slate-caverns.co.uk

TRAVEL BACK IN TIME

whether you’re heading over land or under

Prefer to glide high in the sky? With three

it. And talking of which, you can head 500

locations across north Wales to whiz across

For a more traditional take on the country’s

feet underground – via Britain’s steepest

(Penrhyn, Blaenau Ffestiniog and Betws-

history, explore the wonderful 16th century

cable railway – at Llechwedd Deep Mine

y-Coed), Zip World is famous for its zip

Llancaiach Fawr Manor, overlooking the

in Gwynedd. Experience what life was like

wires, which are fast – and long. So long,

Glamorgan uplands near Cardiff. This fully

for the slate miners of the 19th century

in fact, they’re record breaking: Zip World

restored grade 1 listed manor house is no

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Wales

Attractions of Snowdonia showcases the region’s best railways, castles, gardens, parks & more. Find out more at www.snowdoniaattractions.com

ordinary heritage attraction – here, the

01443 412248 to find out more or visit

costumed servants of the house are living

your.caerphilly.gov.uk/llancaiachfawr

and working in 1645 as the fires crackle,

In North Wales, check out the Llangollen Railway, which cuts through one of Britain’s most scenic valleys – the Dee Valley – with

candles flicker, and the sounds and smells of

HIT THE RAILS

domestic life hit you as you walk in.

Over in Powys, the narrow gauge Welshpool

either side as it follows the course of the

& Llanfair Light Railway offers a 16-mile

River Dee. See www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

While the manor’s firmly fixed in the 17th

the Berwyn Mountains towering above on

While over in south west Wales, the

century, the attraction’s visitor centre, gift

return journey from the town of Welshpool

shop, coffee lounge and restaurant are bang

to the village of Llanfair Caereinion (see

Gwili Railway operates from Bronwydd near

up to date. Daytime and evening tours for up

www.wllr.org.uk), while the Ffestiniog &

Carmarthen along a short section (four miles)

to 90 people can be arranged, and a range

Welsh Highland Railways cross Snowdonia

of the former Carmarthen to Aberystwyth

of catering options are also available. Call

National Park. See www.festrail.co.uk

railway. See www.gwili-railway.co.uk WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

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Bala Lake Railway Llanuwchllyn, nr Bala, Gwynedd LL23 7DD

'One of the greatest train journeys in the world...' • Range of long or short trips available • Clean, comfortable carriages • On-Train Refreshments • Stunning Scenery

Enjoy a nine-mile return journey by narrow-gauge steam train through southern Snowdonia with magnificent lake and mountain views.

   

discounted group rates single or return journeys gift shop and café free coach parking

Conveniently located for Llandudno, Chester, Shrewsbury and North and Mid-Wales

For rates and details call us on 01678 540666

enquiries@bala-lake-railway.co.uk

www.bala- lake-railway.co.uk

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FFESTINIOG & WELSH HIGHLAND RAILWAYS Harbour Station, Porthmadog, Gwynedd, LL49 9NF groups@ffwhr.com

01766 516024

www.festrail.co.uk

13/04/2018 14:31


Days out Meet Deborah II, a replica Mk IV tank – as built by TV’s Guy Martin, pictured right

Let battle commence!

Visit Bristol Museums’ five attractions – the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, M Shed, the Georgian House Museum, the Red Lodge Museum and Bristol Archives. See www.bristolmuseums .org.uk

From tanks (called Deborah) to world-famous fine art, we round up the museums and galleries worth exploring this summer

D

EBORAH II – a reproduction of the

ago, and learn how the Mark IV tank played

original Mk IV tank that was knocked

a major role in bringing about the end of the

out of action at The Battle of Cambrai in 1917 – was the star of the recent Channel

First World War. MK1 tanks were used in small numbers

“Crew comforts were definitely not thought about at all.” The Norfolk Tank Museum prides itself on being a hands-on museum where visitors

4 series Guy Martin’s WW1 Tank. And she’s

during the battles of the Somme and

can actually climb inside a Chieftain Main

now on show at her new permanent home

Passchendaele, but it wasn’t until the Battle

Battle Tank, and the Saladin Armoured Car.

in the Norfolk Tank Museum near Norwich.

of Cambrai in 1917 that the first mass tank

Weather permitting, white-knuckle rides

Deborah joins more than 20 tanks

battle involving over 400 Mark IV tanks took

over an off-road course are available in the

and armoured vehicles at the museum,

place. Very few Mark IV tanks remain, and for

Hagglunds BV206 All Terrain Vehicle, and each

including a rare group of three Chieftain

Stephen Machaye, director of the Norfolk

summer there’s a two-day ArmourFest of

tanks and a Russian Surface to Air Missile

Tank Museum, building Deborah II was one

military vehicle mayhem when the Centurion

launcher, plus a unique collection of British

of the strangest experiences he’s ever had.

tanks can be seen live and smoking in the

Army weaponry from 1850 onwards.

“It was weird building the tank and

arena, along with other vehicles, living history

driving it, knowing this was what my

groups and activities (this year’s event takes

Deborah to discover just what life was like for

grandfather served in, possibly during the

place from August 11-12). Find out more

those first tank regiment soldiers 100 years

Battle of Cambrai itself,” says Stephen.

at www.norfolktankmuseum.co.uk

Visitors can enjoy guided tours inside

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Days out John William Waterhouse’s Mariana In The South, c.1897

PRE-RAPHAELITE ART ON SHOW

The largest bequest came to Hammersmith

Hammersmith & Fulham Council, is home to

& Fulham Council, as this was where French’s

a landmark exhibition of newly conserved

favourite artist, Edward Burne-Jones, had

masterpieces from the Cecil French Bequest –

lived for many years. Accordingly, Edward is

a rarely seen collection of later Pre-Raphaelite

a central figure in this new exhibition, which

paintings and drawings left to the council in

offers a rare opportunity to see works on

1953 by the collector Cecil French.

paper that show the great range of the artist.

Featuring important works by Frederic

George Cooper visits the new-look National Army Museum in Chelsea, which has undergone a multi-million pound revamp...

The exhibition, which runs until June 3,

Leighton, Laurence Alma-Tadema, John

2018 also includes paintings and drawings

William Waterhouse and Edward Burne-

by other celebrated artists of this period,

Jones, the exhibition, entitled Pre-

including Frederic Leighton, Lawrence

Raphaelite Collection Unveiled, celebrates

Alma-Tadema, Albert Moore, John William

a long-standing relationship between

Waterhouse and G F Watts. Find out more

Watts Gallery and Cecil French.

about the gallery, which is based in Compton,

Cecil was a great friend of Rowland

Fighting talk

the bequest should benefit British galleries.

Right now, Watts Gallery, in partnership with

Surrey, at www.wattsgallery.org.uk

Alston, curator of Watts Gallery, and it was

■ And don’t miss this: Watts Gallery is also

to Alston that Cecil left instructions for the

hosting a Christina Rossetti exhibition from

distribution of the collection following his

November 13, 2018 to February 24, 2019.

death. This was to be at the discretion of

See www.wattsgallery.org.uk/whats-on/

Rowland – the only stipulation being that

christina-rossetti/

soldiers during an impromptu Ashes match

journey in the large, bright atrium, adjacent

in Iraq in 2005. Sitting next to it is a large

to which is a café and children’s play-base.

piece of shrapnel. “That’s part of a rocket that

From there, you can set off to explore five

exploded in the outfield while England were

themed galleries: Army, Soldier, Battle, Insight

batting,” says Matt Thomas, our tour guide.

and Society.

Match abandoned? “Oh no, they just continued playing – Australia won.”

Each gallery examines the role of the British Army as protector, peacekeeper and

With more than 2,500 such objects on

aggressor, from its roots in the English Civil

display, each telling its own fascinating story,

War 400 years ago right up to the present

you could spend hours wandering through

day. Each one’s aimed at a different audience,

ERCHED ON DISPLAY in one of the

this impressive building. After a three-year

but all are perfect for visiting families and

vast glass cabinets of the new-look

refurbishment, costing £23.75m, the National

large groups. The museum’s open daily

National Army Museum in West London is

Army Museum now offers an immersive and

from 10am-5.30pm and entry is free,

a cricket ball used by British and Australian

interactive experience. Visitors begin their

see nam.ac.uk

P

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A Pre-Raphaelite Collection Unveiled: The Cecil French Bequest Until 3 June 2018 James Henry Pullen: Inmate - Inventor - Genius 19 June - 28 October 2018 Christina Rossetti 13 November 2018 - 24 February 2019 Fonmon Castle & Gardens - South Wales 800 years of history and stunning Georgian interiors - just 25 minutes from Cardiff and M4 Open year round for pre-booked tour groups: ● Exclusive group castle tours with experienced tour guide ● Delicious home cooked teas served in the beautiful Rococo library ● Visitors free to wander and explore the delightful gardens ● Ample free on-site parking, drivers receive complimentary refreshments ● 2018 Offers: Organiser goes free

Watts Gallery - Artists’ Village Exhibitions | Chapel | Artists’ Home & Studios | Contemporary Art | Tea Shop

wattsgallery.org.uk | Guildford, Surrey GU3 1DQ Untitled-1 1

16/04/2018 09:04


ITV

Street Life in the

Coronation Street’s famous cobbles have been gracing our screens for nearly 60 years – and now a new exhibition tells the story of the soap’s creator, Tony Warren

T

HE EARLY LIFE and career of Tony Warren, creator of Coronation

Street, is remembered in an exhibition at Salford Museum and Art Gallery, which runs until the start of July. ‘Four Miles from Manchester – Tony Warren’s Coronation Street’ showcases aspects of Tony’s life, documenting him growing up in Pendlebury, where he absorbed the streets, people and sounds around him, eventually leading him into a career in script writing. Original scripts and other items from his early writing career are on show as the exhibition tells the story of the Salford legend’s journey to creating Coronation Street, an innovation of its time, telling stories

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Days out A young Tony watches the show that would make him a legend among TV script writers

ITV

Behind the Rovers Return bar

Coronation Street is four miles in any one direction from the centre of Manchester. Emotionally, it’s wherever you want it to be in your own heart – Tony Warren of ordinary people on an ordinary street. As a child, Tony remembered visiting his

ITV

Tony re-visits the cobbles he first made famous back in 1960

he encountered,” says David Tucker of Tony Warren’s estate. “His knack for putting everyday drama down on paper and bringing it to life on our TV screens was second-to-none. “I wanted the items from his career to be shared with the public and not shut away or sold. Tony approved an exhibition before

and see some of Tony’s personal items and

he died, and I’m sure he would be as thrilled

photographs. 1950s Salford was full of

as I am that it’s in his native Salford.”

grandmother’s house, where he would sit

terraced houses, cobbled streets and industrial

under the table and listen to the speech

sights and sounds, and this scene is set at

Warren’s Coronation Street runs until Tuesday

patterns of his female relatives. The exhibition

the exhibition with specially created paintings

July 3, at Salford Museum & Art Gallery.

brings these moments to life and includes

by local artist David Coulter, who grew up in

The exhibition is free to enter. Find out

a replica living room scene from the late

the same place, at the same time, as Tony.

more at www.salfordcommunityleisure.

1950s and early 1960s. Visitors can also watch the first episode of Coronation Street

“Tony was an amazing writer and a fantastic man who genuinely had an interest in anyone

Four Miles from Manchester – Tony

co.uk/culture/salford-museum/ exhibitions/tony-warren WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

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Days out

Backstage pass Go behind the scenes of the UK’s best-loved films, TV shows and sporting fixtures THE EMMERDALE STUDIO EXPERIENCE

about the roles of the groundsmen and

Based at the former ITV studios in Burley

discounted tickets for The Oval tour through

Road, Leeds where interior scenes for the soap

grouptraveloffers.com

were filmed until 2011, here’s your chance

visit the Corinthian Roof Terrace. Book your

Downton comes to Beamish

to see Emmerdale like never before on a

DOWNTON ABBEY AT BEAMISH

fully guided tour. Explore the sets, props and

Eagle eyed viewers may well have spotted

costumes, and learn the secrets behind some

Beamish in County Durham on the very last

of historic music locations on a vintage

of the stunts and special effects used on the

episode of Downton Abbey on Christmas Day

double decker London bus. The tour – which

show. Visitors can get hands-on too – learning

2015. Around 320 million visitors around

travels along the Kings Road in Chelsea,

how to light a set, film a scene and edit the

the world saw the sweet shop and garage

passing many famous locations, including the

footage. An outside walking tour of the

– covered in snow, although it was filmed in

Royal Court Hotel in Sloane Square (once the

working village set is also available. See

mid-July. See this fantastic open air museum

London base of The Beatles) – takes in a tour

www.emmerdalestudioexperience.co.uk

for yourself – and discover the special events

of the Royal Albert Hall. For a full list of dates

planned for 2018 at the attraction, coined

visit www.60sbus.london

THE KIA OVAL TOUR Surrey’s Kia Oval has played host to many a game of cricket, from the birth of The Ashes in

GTW

‘The Living Museum of the North’ – at www.beamish.org.uk

1882 through to England’s historic Ashes win

LONDON’S SWINGING ’60S

in the 2005 series. Tours here are relatively

London’s Swinging ’60s Experience Tours have

new, with groups led through some of the

returned to the Royal Albert Hall. These fun,

ground’s key spots, including the museum

immersive tours take groups back to Swinging

and the famous Long Room. You’ll also learn

’60s London, starting with an hour-long tour

Explore MediaCityUK in Manchester – the BBC’s home in the north of England. Visit www.bbc.co.uk/ showsand tours

Become a director for the day

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The ancestral seat of the Sidney family since 1552, The stately home of Penshurst Place boasts an awe-inspiring medieval hall nearly seven centuries old, beautiful staterooms and 11 acres of charming Elizabethan gardens to explore. Groups welcome throughout the year

For more information and to book, call us on (+44) 01892 870 307 or visit www.penshurstplace.com

© Jigsaw Design & Publishing

Come and discover Wiltshire’s hidden treasure 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.

IMAGE CREDIT: MAMMOTH MEDIA

Just 8 miles from Bath on the A4, 4 miles from the M4 (J17), or 3 miles from Chippenham Station.

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sea legs? Found your

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Cruise holidays Whether it’s the Norwegian fjords or a coastal hop around Scotland, cruise options are many and varied

Travel expert Mike Pickup has sailed many an ocean. Here, he shares his tips for first-time cruisers to help you avoid the pitfalls and enjoy every second on deck

A

CCORDING TO INDUSTRY body CLIA,

nor what your suitcase weighs – not even

last year cruising accounted for just

how many you take.

over 4% of foreign holidays. So, in other

However, unless you have plenty of time

words, 96% of the population simply cannot

and money there is only so far you can go

understand why otherwise sane people

without flying. A week will take you to the

would want to be cooped up on a ship with

Norwegian Fjords and back or along the

thousands of others for a couple of weeks!

Atlantic coast of France and northern Spain.

Of course it isn’t really like that. Cruise

Two weeks will get you to places such as

ships range from floating hotels to amazing

New York, the Canaries and Cape

holiday resorts. The huge advantage ships

Verde or the Baltic and St Petersburg,

have over hotels is that they move, usually

where as a cruise passenger, you can

at night, so you wake up somewhere new

enjoy 72 hours visa-free access.

each morning. You can visit key destinations elsewhere and only unpack once. And back

ARE THEY A FLOATING OLD PEOPLE’S HOME?

on board after a day exploring ashore, the

Far from it. The average age of cruise

food, service and entertainment are top class.

passengers is 55, but this masks the fact that

Perhaps the biggest hurdle for potential

while some cruise lines stick to the traditional

in the Caribbean, the Baltic, the Med or

first-time cruisers is the unknown – the myths

formula, others, such as Norwegian Cruise

and misconceptions that surround cruising.

Lines and Royal Caribbean, set out to attract

So here are some points to consider...

a younger family market. Here, facilities may

SHOULD I FLY OR NOT?

include a rock climbing wall, surf simulator, a sky-diving simulator, ice rink and dodgem cars.

Airports are becoming increasingly stressful,

A range of kids clubs will probably include a

which isn’t an ideal way to start your holiday.

teens-only section, open until midnight or

With more UK cruise departure points

later, where parents aren’t allowed. And these

available, a no-fly cruise is an option for

family-oriented ships are also ideal for multi-

many. It’s easy to drive to the cruise terminal,

generation holidays. Kids, parents and grand-

hand over your suitcases and be on board

parents can holiday together yet follow their

for lunch. You don’t have to worry about

own separate interests, perhaps just meeting

liquids in your hand luggage or its dimensions,

up for dinner to swap stories. WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

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Cruise holidays WHAT ABOUT THE DINING OPTIONS? Traditionally, cruise passengers were allocated

available, you would book a hotel room with no windows for the same reason.

This arrangement still prevails on many ships.

WILL GRATUITIES COST AN ARM AND A LEG?

However, some have replaced set dining with a

Most ships add a daily amount to your on-

range of places to eat, perhaps as many as 18,

board account to cover tips for the cabin

and you can eat when and where you want.

steward, waiters and crew you don’t see. This

first or second sitting and a set table for dinner.

...AND THE DRESS CODE?

varies from around £5 to £9 per passenger per day. However, many ships will allow you

A typical river cruise cabin – this is an AmaWaterways ship

On many ships the second night at sea is the

to waive this so you can tip personally, but

captain’s welcome party where formal dress

you will have to sign a form to this effect.

is requested, and this dress code is repeated

Those that are not primarily focussed on UK

entertainment and on-board activities. Many

every third night. However, on the newer

passengers will also add a service charge for

ships have large theatres and some will

family-focused ships, such as Norwegian and

drinks purchases, usually 15% or 18%. If you

put on shows that would do credit to any

Royal Caribbean, formal nights are no more. If

enjoy wines, cocktails and so on, it’s worth

west-end theatre. Extras will usually be items

you like being dressy, try Cunard.

considering a drinks package. There are usually

like excursions, spa treatments and internet

also soda packages for kids that enable them

access which, on many ships, can be slow and

to get drinks, useful when they are not with

expensive.

WHAT ARE THE CABIN OPTIONS? Ignoring the few expensive suites on board,

their parents.

that is, one with no window, an outside cabin

WHAT IF I’M ON MY OWN?

WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH RIVER CRUISES?

(ocean view) with a window that doesn’t

If a single passenger occupies a double cabin

I once read that the difference between ocean

open, and a balcony cabin that has a patio

they’re going to pay around twice the ‘per

and river cruising is that with ocean cruising

door and balcony with chairs and a table.

person’ fare. Most cruise ships do have a

the ship is the destination, but with river

Some people choose an inside cabin to save

small number of single cabins that are priced

cruising the destination is the destination.

money, on the basis that there are only in it

appropriately but Norwegian Cruise Lines

River cruises may appear more expensive than

to sleep, but you need to consider whether, if

has addressed both the financial and social

ocean cruises but most include drinks with

issues of single travellers. Their most recent

lunch and dinner, shore excursions and good

ships have exclusive areas dedicated to single

internet access, so there is very little in the way

passengers with over one hundred single

of extras. The ships are much smaller, usually

studios and a lounge and bar area, so when

no more than 200 passengers, so are more

you pop in for a drink you can be assured all

sociable. The focus is often on the cultural

your fellow guests are also travelling alone.

elements of destinations so river cruising tends

most ships offer a choice of an inside cabin,

The on board entertainment on many ships is worthy of the West End

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE FARE?

to appeal to active, mature people. Still not sure? Then look for one of the

A cruise fare normally includes

many affordable two- or three-night taster

accommodation, meals and a range of

cruises and give cruising a try...

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2019 Cruises for Groups Scenic cruising holidays from 11 UK ports

BUY ON E GET ON E

Our fleet of traditional style cruise ships, sailing from 11 British ports, offer a warm welcome to all types of groups.

FREE

Scenic cruising holidays to...Norwegian fjords – Baltic Cities – British Isles – Iceland – European Cities & Rivers – Canary Islands & Madeira – Scottish Islands – Spain & Portugal – Northern Lights – Christmas Markets – Christmas & New Year and Worldwide voyages

PLUS GRO UP DEALS PLUS FRE E PLACES

Exceptional value group benefits • A group booking constitutes just 12 adult guests • Extra 5% group discount on our BOGOF Fares • Book 20 adult passengers and we will offer you one FREE place and an EXTRA free place if you book 40 adult passengers* • Special welcome aboard cocktail party** You must book your group by 31st May 2018 to enjoy these benefits. So hurry to avoid disappointment.

0844 998 9272

Email: groups@cruiseandmaritime.com Visit: www.cruiseandmaritime.com

Prices are from and per person based on two adults sharing a twin cabin. Excludes gratuities at £7pp per night. Single occupancy cannot be guaranteed and is subject to availability. *Free places can also be exchanged as a credit based on the lowest cabin category booked. **The special welcome aboard cocktail party will be organised for groups of 30 plus passengers on cruises of 4 nights or more. Terms & Conditions apply. Subject to availability and may be withdrawn without notice. Calls will cost 5p per minute plus your telephone company’s access charge. Operated by South Quay Travel & Leisure Ltd trading as Cruise & Maritime Voyages. 4222

Disneyland Paris ®

© Disney © 2018 MARVEL

Disneyland® Paris is Europe’s number one tourist destination Something for everyone (from teenagers and tots to great grandparents) Events including Season of the Force, Marvel Summer of Super Heroes, St David’s Welsh Weekend, St Patrick’s Day, Disney’s Halloween Festival, Disney’s Magical Fireworks & Bonfire, Disney’s Enchanted Christmas Tailor-made packages available including accommodation, travel and additional extras Special occasions, family holidays, group travel Magical moments to last a lifetime

01708 802 388

Tel Gateway House, Stonehouse Lane, Purfleet, Essex, RM19 1NS info@southquaytravel.com www.southquaytravel.com ICT Group Travel

South Quay Travel

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Part of the Cruise & Maritime Travel & Leisure Group

27/03/2018 16:27

13/04/2018 11:58


Days out

Music to our ears Celebrate the UK’s rich musical heritage...

in the late 1960s, and the German-born

The Beatles Story is home to the

British baroque composer George Frideric

world’s largest permanent exhibition

Handel, who made the next door house his

purely devoted to the lives and times

home in 1712 and eventually became a

of this legendary band. It takes visitors

British citizen in 1727.

on an atmospheric journey through the

PIXABAY

One of Liverpool’s best loved attractions,

Handel House occupies two floors of

lives, times, culture and music of the Fab

25 Brook Street, where the composer

Four, with special events and exhibitions

lived until his death in 1759; while Hendrix

admission (priced at £10) is limited,

held throughout the year. Discounts are

Flat occupies the upper floor of 23 Brook

so it’s recommended you buy tickets in

available for families and groups. Find

Street, where Jimi lived from July 1968

advance. See handelhendrix.org

out more at www.beatlesstory.com

to March 1969. The main room of the flat where he lived, entertained, rehearsed and

A hub for music and arts, Kings Place,

Separated by a wall – and 250-odd years

wrote new music has been restored, and a

in the heart of London’s King’s Cross,

– are the homes of two legendary musicians

permanent exhibition introduces Hendrix’s

offers a diverse programme of music,

who chose London as their home. Handel

place in the musical and social world of 1960s

festivals and more. Groups of six or more

& Hendrix in London tells the story of

London, as well as his influences and legacy.

get a 20% discount. For full details

VISIT BRITAIN

Jimi Hendrix, who lived in this Mayfair flat

In the heart of London’s West End,

see www.kingsplace.co.uk

GTW

Visit the home of The Beatles

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SPECULAR

Danielle Steers as Zahara (front centre) with the cast of Bat Out Of Hell

For cheaper tickets to many top West End shows, plus money off UK attractions and theme parks, see our sister site grouptraveloffers .com LET’S ROCK

Like a Bat Out Of Hell

Ledoux and Patrick Sullivan as Blake. Bat Out Of Hell – The Musical wowed critics when it played limited seasons

The cast of Jim Steinman’s award-winning

Debut Awards – as Strat and Christina

at Manchester Opera House, London

Bat Out Of Hell – The Musical has been

Bennington as Raven, with Rob Fowler

Coliseum and Toronto’s Ed Mirvish Theatre

announced. The show, which launches this

as Falco and Sharon Sexton as Sloane.

in 2017, and has been seen by nearly

month at London’s Dominion Theatre, is led by

Also starring are Alex Thomas-Smith

500,000 people so far.

Andrew Polec – winner of the Joe Allen Best

as Tink, Danielle Steers as Zahara, Wayne

West End Debut gong in the 2017 Stage

Robinson as Jagwire, Giovanni Spanó as

For more on its current West End run see www.BatOutOfHellMusical.com

Girl power

Bursting onto stage

Sarah Soetaert, Josefina Gabrielle and Ruthie

This month sees the launch of the UK tour of

Henshall have joined Oscar winner Cuba

the Lyric Hammersmith’s A Midsummer’s

Gooding Jr in the multi-award-winning Chicago

Night’s Dream. The tour opens at the

at the Phoenix Theatre in London’s West End.

Hammersmith from April 13 to 14, before heading to Hull Truck Theatre from April 17 to

Following a successful UK and international tour, and after a five-year

21; Theatr Clwyd from

absence from London, Chicago – the

April 24 to 28; Nuffield

winner of six Tony Awards, two Olivier

Southampton Theatres

Awards and a Grammy – began its run

from May 1 to 5; Exeter

at the Phoenix Theatre last month.

Northcott Theatre from May 8 to 12; Oxford

Sarah Soetaert is recreating the role of Roxie Hart (a role she previously played

Playhouse from May

at the Cambridge and Garrick Theatres).

15 to 19; the Cast in

Josefina Gabrielle is making her debut

Doncaster from May 22 to

as Velma Kelly, and Ruthie Henshall has

26 and the Cambridge Arts

returned to the show to play Mama Morton. The play is booking until June 23, find out more at ChicagoWestEnd.com

Sarah Soetaert plays Roxie Hart

Theatre from June 5 to 9. Find out more at lyric.co.uk

A Midsummer’s Night’s Dream is on tour

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Theatre news

Former EastEnders star Harry plays the lead in Witness for the Prosecution ALL RISE!

Witness for the Prosecution EastEnders’ Harry Reid is making his London stage debut, starring as the accused, Leonard The cast of Shrek The Musical

Vole, in the new cast of Witness for the Prosecution. This hit production of Agatha Christie’s classic courtroom play has now

Shrek on tour

been seen by more than 55,000 people, and is currently booking in the spectacular

This month sees the cast of Shrek the Musical

Winter Gardens, before heading to Woking’s

Chamber inside London County Hall until

continue their UK tour, with performances at

New Victoria Theatre. The tour runs until

September 16, 2018.

the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff from

the end of the year – for full details see

April 10-22. The tour continues into May at

our theatre listings page on p74 or visit

Mitchell in EastEnders – is joined by Lucy

the Regent Theatre in Stoke and Blackpool

www.shrekthemusical.co.uk

Phelps as Romaine, Richard Clothier as Sir

Harry – who’s best known for playing Ben

Wilfrid Robarts, Julian Curry as Mr Justice Wainwright and Peter Moreton as Mr Mayhew.

The Moderate Soprano

The play has been nominated for the Best Revival category at the 2018 WhatsOnStage Awards, after capturing the imagination of audiences who can experience the drama

The Moderate Soprano, a new play by

inside the unique setting of County Hall’s

David Hare, opens in the West End this

ornate Chamber. Director Lucy Bailey

month, following a sold-out premiere run at

places the audience in the thick of the

Hampstead Theatre in 2015.

action, with some even watching from the jury box as this tale of justice, passion and

The play, which runs from April 6 until June 30 at the Duke of York’s Theatre, depicts

betrayal unfolds around them. Find out

the story behind Glyndebourne, one of the

more at www.witnesscountyhall.com

most esteemed opera houses in the world. It stars Olivier Award-winners Roger Allam in ITV’s Endeavour), and Nancy Carroll

It’s festival time!

(recently seen on stage in Young Marx at

Chichester Festival Theatre has

the Bridge Theatre and Woyzeck at the

announced the line-up for its Festival

Old Vic, plus all six Father Brown series).

2018, which offers an array of classics,

(best known for playing DI Fred Thursday

“Few people know the extraordinary story of how an eccentric English schoolmaster

musicals and new work over the summer Roger Allam

months. Headline actors include Rufus Hound, Penelope Keith, Susannah Fielding

bumped accidentally into three refugees from Hitler’s Germany, and formed one of

Glyndebourne’s true founder was John

and Caroline Quentin, with tickets from

the world’s great opera houses in the 1930s

Christie’s adored wife, Audrey Mildmay, whom

just £10. See www.cft.org.uk/

in the middle of the English countryside,”

he called ‘the moderate soprano’.” Find out

festival-2018

says David. “But even fewer know that

more at www.themoderatesoprano.com

GTW

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Roll up,

roll up…

...it’s Cirque du Soleil OVO! Sue Parslow is ‘buzzing’ after watching colourful insects in an unforgettable circus-style performance at London’s Albert Hall

T

of Mayflies who spin around together from ‘ribbons’ that descend from a ceiling rig, Ants performing harmonized foot juggling with huge kiwi fruit slices, corn cobs and eventually each other, and a creature who steers a unicycle along a slack high wire. The ‘plot’ revolves around a blue bottle fly who arrives in a colony of insects presided over

HERE’S NO NEED to feel squeamish

playfulness of insects and there’s a swarming

by an eccentric beetle in circus ringmaster-

about these creatures! Allow yourself

cast of 53 talented and super fit athletes.

style carrying a large egg (Ovo is Portuguese

to become immersed in a fantasy world

The costumes are incredible; so elaborate

for egg) on his back. He creates quite a stir,

of insects that come buzzing into life

that it’s hard to believe there are men and

not least because he becomes smitten with

with the arrival of a large egg.

women within the creative disguises. There

the sassy Ladybird. His clumsy attempts to

are grasshoppers with long hind legs, a pair

woo her are interrupted by the other insects

OVO is inspired by the energy and 70 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

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Theatre review The arrival of a blue bottle fly and an egg sets the insect world a flutter

Flirty bee and blue bottle...

The acrobatic routines are stunning

Bouncing crickets on giant trampolines

After a tour of Europe, the show will return to the UK for a nationwide tour in the autumn, starting in Liverpool on August 16, then heading to Sheffield, Newcastle, Glasgow, Nottingham, Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham, Dublin and finishing at Belfast in October.

Red ants foot juggle large slices of kiwi, corn cobs... and each other

keen to drive him away. He is the clown of

the same human race I belong to! What is

agreed that the standard of performance

the piece and there is plenty of humour – a

as remarkable as the contortions or split-

is so high the viewer’s brain is fooled into

surprising amount considering there’s no

second timed moves, is the fact that they are

thinking it looks a whole lot easier than it is.

dialogue, just grunts, squeaks and whistles.

done in synchronization with two or three

INCREDIBLE ACROBATICS

others making exactly the same moves. Ovo is a circus-style show for all age groups.

All credit to the imagination of the show’s creator, Brazilian writer, director and choreographer Deborah Colker. The

Cirque du Soleil is really about incredible

It’s about connecting with your inner child

accompanying upbeat and atmospheric

acrobatics – awesome in the truest sense of

and allowing yourself to become immersed

music is performed live — look out for

the word. You may find yourself involuntarily

in a world that obeys different rules.

musicians dressed as cockroaches.

gasping as you watch unbelievable feats such

Just when you think you might have

My favourites were the green crickets

as the Gold Scarabs performing their Russian

‘seen’ a move, another level of daring is

who hurled themselves from the top of

cradle acrobatics high above the stage floor!

added to make it more thrilling and exciting.

a wall to bounce back up again to the

A slight low point for me was a juggling

exact same spot from trampolines like

act. My partner disagreed, though we both

gravity-defying bouncing fleas.

At many points in the show I wondered if these individuals were actually part of

GTW

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27/03/2018 15:19


Hit show STOMP is playing at the Ambassadors Theatre

LONDON

Theatre YOUR TRIP TO THE WEST END STARTS HERE – VISIT OUR SITE GROUPTRAVELOFFERS.COM FOR THE BEST TICKET PRICES ALADDIN

Prince Edward Theatre Booking to: May 2018 Times: Mon-Sat 19:30; Thurs & Sat 14:30

14.00 & Part Two 19:30; Thurs

Cambridge Theatre

Part One 19:30; Fri Part Two

SCHOOL OF ROCK

Booking to: February 2019

19:30; Sun Part One 13.00,

Times: Tues 19:00; Weds-Sat

New London Theatre

Part Two 18:30

19:30; Weds & Sat 14:30hrs,

KINKY BOOTS

Sun 15:00

MOTOWN THE MUSICAL

THE BOOK OF MORMON

Adelphi Theatre Booking to: September 2018

Shaftesbury Theatre

Booking to: May 2018

Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;

Booking to: January 2019

Weds & Sat 14:30

Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;

Prince of Wales Theatre Times: Mon-Sat 19:30, Weds & Sat 14:30

LES MISÉRABLES

Thurs & Sat: 15:00

PHANTOM OF THE OPERA

THE COMEDY ABOUT A BANK ROBBERY

Queen’s Theatre

Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;

Her Majesty’s Theatre

Booking to: May 2018

Weds & Sat 14:30

Booking to: May 2018

Criterion Theatre

Times: Tues-Sat 19:30; Sat

Booking to: October 2018

14:30; Sun 15.00 & 19.00

THE LION KING

DREAMGIRLS

Booking to: May 2018

Booking to: June 2018

Weds, Sat & Sun 14:30

Savoy Theatre

Times: Mon-Sat 19:30; Weds & Sat 14:30

HARRY POTTER & THE CURSED CHILD (parts 1 & 2) Palace Theatre

Booking to: November 2018 Times: Weds & Sat Part One

Lyceum Theatre

Times: Tues-Sat 19:30,

MAMMA MIA!

Novello Theatre Booking to: October 2018 Times: Mon-Sat 19:45; Thurs & Sat 15:00

MATILDA – THE MUSICAL

Times: Mon-Sat 19:30; Thurs & Sat 14:30

Booking to: January 2019 Times: Mon-Sat 19:30, Thurs & Sat 14:30; Sun 15:00

STOMP Ambassadors Theatre Booking to: May 2018 Times: Mon, Thurs, Fri & Sat 20.00; Sun 18.00; Thurs, Sat & Sun 15.00

THRILLER LIVE Lyric Theatre Booking to: September 2018 Times: Tues-Fri 19:30; Sat 16:00 & 20.00; Sun 15:30 & 19:30

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG

WICKED

Booking to: September 2018

Booking to: May 2019

Duchess Theatre

Times: Tue-Sat 19:30; Sat

Apollo Victoria Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;

14:30; Sun 15:00 & 19:00

Weds & Sat 14:30

42ND STREET

THE WOMAN IN BLACK

Theatre Royal

Fortune Theatre

Booking to: December 2018

Booking to: January 2019

Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;

Times: Mon-Sat 20:00;

Weds & Sat 14:30

Tues & Thurs 15:00; Sat 16.00

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27/03/2018 15:21


GROUP TRAVEL

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If you would like to book any of these attractions please call Harley Denham on 01733 293 249 Visit www.grouptraveloffers.com to view our full range of offers! Untitled-1 73 GTO FP Advert.indd 1

13:35 13/04/2018 13:34


Touring theatre THE UK’S BEST MUSICALS AND SHOWS HAVE HIT THE ROAD. CATCH THEM ON TOUR HERE... Hairspray is on tour

HAIRSPRAY

SHREK THE MUSICAL

THE BAND

MISS SAIGON

Manchester Opera House: Until April 7

Sheffield Lyceum Theatre: Until April 8

Newcastle Theatre Royal: April 3-14

Manchester Palace Theatre:

Milton Keynes Theatre: April 9-14

Cardiff Wales Millennium Centre: April 10-22

Bristol Hippodrome: April 17-28

Bristol Hippodrome:

Liverpool Empire Theatre: April 16-21

Stoke Regent Theatre: May 2-13

Birmingham Hippodrome: May 1-12

Plymouth Theatre Royal:

Hull New Theatre: April 23-28

Blackpool Winter Gardens: May 15-27

Plymouth Theatre Royal: May 15-26

Venue Cymru Llandudno: April 30 - May 5 Canterbury Marlowe Theatre: May 8-12 Southend Cliffs Pavilion: May 14-19 Wycombe Swan: May 21-26 Cheltenham Everyman Theatre: May 29 - June 3 Stoke Regent Theatre: June 12-16 Oxford New Theatre: June 18-23 Theatre Royal Newcastle: June 25-30

Woking New Victoria Theatre: May 30 - June 10 Liverpool Empire: June 12-24 Canterbury Marlowe Theatre: July 11-22 Milton Keynes Theatre: July 25 - August 5 Bristol Hippodrome: August 8-19 Llandudno Venue Cymru: August 21 - September 2 Leeds Grand Theatre: December 18 - January 6, 2019

Northampton Royal & Derngate: May 29 - June 9 Nottingham Theatre Royal: June 12-23 Glasgow King’s Theatre: June 26 - July 7 Edinburgh Playhouse: July 10 - July 14

Until May 12 May 16 - June 23 July 4 - August 4 Norwich Theatre Royal: August 15 - September 15

For cut-price tickets to theatre shows see grouptraveloffers. com

The Sister Act Live Choir Show is now touring at cinemas across the UK. See the film like never before, on a huge screen while a live 35-piece gospel choir and band accompanies the on-screen nuns as they sing hit songs from the film. For a full list of dates see www.sisteractlivechoir.co.uk

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27/03/2018 15:32


learners. Find out more about all five, free to enter museums at www.bristolmuseums.org.uk

Book now... ...to save 60% or more on your next group

OUR LATEST OFFERS INCLUDE:

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cft.org.uk/groups 01243 812909

13/04/2018 14:30 02/11/2017 14:01


GTW news

Blackpool

here we come…

The Group Travel World magazine team headed to Blackpool recently for the 2018 Coach Tourism Association Conference GTW’s Julie (left) and Helen with Visit Blackpool’s mascot

The CTA is the UK voice of coaching holidays, and this year’s conference marked a new era for the association, with a new chairman and board members

Emma is running the Kew Gardens 10k race for mental health charity Mind

announced. As previous chairman Denise Bridges stepped down after three years, the role was taken

Emma’s on the run!

who’s joined by three new board

“On September 15 I’ll be lacing up

and Colin Fawcus of DFDS Ferries,

over by John Wales of Encore, members – Daniel Kirby of Kirby’s Coaches, Roger Bull of RB Travel with Robert Shaw of Harry Shaw

my trusty trainers once again and taking

taking over as vice-chairman.

part in the Kew Gardens 10k race

Turn to page 100 for a report

for the mental health charity Mind,” says GTW’s Emma Parkes. “Each year one in four people experience a mental health problem,

GTW editor Helen with CTA’s Chief Executive Chris Wales

on the CTA Conference, and discover all the benefits of becoming a CTA member

and I’m hoping Group Travel World’s

at www.coachtourism

lovely readers will help me raise funds

association.co.uk

GTW

for the charity. Your donations will help Mind ensure that anyone with a mental health problem has somewhere to turn for advice and support. (Mind is a partner in Time to Change England’s most ambitious anti-stigma campaign for mental health. Find out more at Time-to-change.org.uk). “I’ve set up a giving page online – and all donations will be greatly appreciated. Please visit www.

Check out our new-look GTW website for your chance to win tickets to Cadbury World. See grouptravelworld.com/ competition

justgiving.com/ fundraising/ emma-parkes3.” ■ Watch

out for

our round-up of the race in the October issue of Group Travel World magazine.

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27/03/2018 15:32


Review Stamford’s home to the historic Corn Exchange Theatre

History and theatre

Stamford is a Lincolnshire gem, rich in history, with a fantastic theatre – the Stamford Corn Exchange – at its heart. GTW’s Harley Denham enjoys all it has to offer...

GET ME THERE The Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre is in Broad Street, Stamford, just a short hop from the town’s many shops, restaurants and cafes. Upcoming shows at the theatre include T-Rextasy on Saturday May 12,

F

comedian Lee Nelson on May 18, the AMED FOR ITS Georgian architecture,

The Theatre Lounge can host up to 200

Stamford Rhythm and Blues Festival

independent shops and eateries,

people for a variety of evening and weekend

on June 17, The Best of British Summer

and stately home (Burghley House sits

events to suit every budget. And this quirky

Concert on June 23, Think Floyd on

on the fringes of the town), Stamford in

venue – set within the Victorian arches of the

October 6, and Forbidden Nights: the

Lincolnshire is a history-lover’s dream.

Corn Exchange – makes the perfect function

2018 Sexy Circus Tour on October 18.

And at its heart sits the Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre, which underwent a

space for private parties and corporate events.

million-pound restoration project 10 years

WHAT TO DO NEARBY

ago that propelled it firmly into the limelight.

The Stamford Corn Exchange is located

Today, the quaint looking theatre draws

in the heart of Stamford. Blue Badge Guide

world-class acts, from comedians to tribute

Jill Collinge takes entertaining guided walks

bands. And my friends and I were keen to

around the town highlighting its medieval

enjoy one its quirkier acts – Dreamboys,

churches and pointing out the locations

which is hailed as the UK’s ultimate

for film dramas including Middlemarch

Magic Mike-style show.

and Pride and Prejudice. Find out more at

It was great fun, and whether you’re keen to head there with a group of friends,

www.stamfordtours.co.uk The glorious 16th century Burghley House

as a couple or as a family for the theatre’s

is just a short drive from Stamford Corn

annual panto, you’ll find a show to suit.

Exchange Theatre, making for a great day

In addition to the line-up of shows

tour/evening out combination. Find out more

on offer, the venue also hires out

at www.burghley.co.uk – and visit our site

its Theatre Lounge to groups.

grouptraveloffers.com for great value tickets.

Find out more about 2018’s line-up of shows at the theatre by calling the box office on 01780 766455.

For a full list of what’s on at the theatre see www.stamford cornexchange .co.uk

WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

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VISIT ENGLAND

Save on tickets to Warwick Castle when you buy at grouptraveloffers .com

Castles, abbeys & bards Take a history lover’s tour of Warwickshire

WARWICK CASTLE It’s one of the county’s best-loved attractions, telling the often-gruesome tale of more than 1,100 years of history, magic and myth. Visit Warwick Castle (see above) and its grounds to discover the towers, turrets, battlements and more, as well as the interactive attractions and walk-through adventures. It’s also home to The Castle Dungeon, together with daily shows and attractions.

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Days out

And the best bit? You can save more than

bride-to-be – Hall’s Croft (where his daughter

40% off the normal entry price through our

Susanna lived) and a host of other attractions,

THE ROYAL SHAKESPEARE THEATRE

sister site grouptraveloffers.com. Plus,

this is THE place for fans of the literary giant.

Take a behind the scenes tour and discover

there’s no group minimum and you can buy,

Groups are welcome to tour the Tudor

the hidden treasures of the world-famous

now pay later – see the website for details.

and Jacobean family homes. Discounts are

Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford

available if there are 15 or more of you,

-upon-Avon. Tours of the theatre run on

with other benefits including exclusive tours,

selected dates throughout the year.

SHAKESPEARE BIRTHPLACE TRUST Home of Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne

reserved seating in the café and more. Based

Hathaway’s Cottage – the 500-year-old

in Stratford-upon-Avon (where else?), find

details of what’s on at the theatre – visit

For more information – and to see full

cottage where Shakespeare courted his

out more at www.shakespeare.org.uk

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VISIT ENGLAND

Days out

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

STONELEIGH ABBEY

border!). Discover how Coventry became

Dating back to the 12th century, Stoneleigh

the centre of the world’s motor and cycle

Abbey has a rich history and has played

industries and get up close to the planet’s

Tales from the Black Country

host to many a queen and notary over the

biggest collection of British road transport.

OK, so it’s not exactly in Warwickshire itself

centuries, from King Charles I to Queen

See www.transport-museum.com

(as its name suggests it nudges into West

Victoria. Groups of 15 or more can enjoy a private tour of the Grade 1 listed Mansion House. See www.stoneleighabbey.org

LORD LEYCESTER’S HOSPITAL & ST MARY’S CHURCH

Midlands territory), but the Black Country Living Museum celebrates the region’s history, revealing the might of the industrial

Both of these Warwick attractions tell the

revolution that was unleashed back in

tale of this ancient town’s past. The Hospital’s

the 1800s. Hailed as one of the finest,

Strictly speaking it’s in the West Midlands, not

a group of medieval timber-framed buildings

and largest, open-air museums in the UK,

Warwickshire, but this fantastic, free to enter

on Warwick High Street, and St Mary’s is a

expect replica old-age streets, a year-long

museum is more than worthy of a mention

historic landmark in the town. Find out

series of special events and more. Plan

more at www.lordleycester.com and

your visit at www.bclm.co.uk

COVENTRY TRANSPORT MUSEUM

(and very close to the county

GTW

www.stmaryswarwick.org.uk

Warwickshire houses the largest collection of historic British cars at the British Motor Museum in Gaydon, which offers discounts for groups of 12 or more. See www. britishmotormuseum .co.uk

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History repeated Tour two historic Warwick venues in one day

T

WO ICONIC

the 700-year living

The tours are

venues in

history of The Lord

available to book

Warwick – The Lord

Leycester Hospital

throughout the year

Leycester Hospital

(a mini version of

from Tuesday to

and St Marys Church

the Royal Hospital

Saturday – download

– have partnered

Chelsea but much

the app ‘Warwick

to create a full day

older), and the

Town Of Treasures’

of guided tours.

beautiful Collegiate

at www.warwick

Church of St Mary,

tour.oncell.com,

the Medieval and

with its architecturally

which showcases both

Elizabethan heritage

acclaimed

sites. Or see www.

of Warwick, featuring

Beauchamp Chapel.

lordleycester.com

The tour highlights

Guided tours of two magnificent historic buildings in Warwick in one day

St Marys Church, Warwick Visit the 15th Century Beauchamp Chapel where Robert Dudley Earl of Leicester is laid to rest with his wife and child the “Noble Impe”.

St Marys Church and the Lord Leycester Hospital have combined a day long tour of both sites

The Lord Leycester Hospital

Lord Leycester is still a place of refuge for men who have fought for or served their country! Soldiers live at the Lord Leycester and can be seen in their Elizabethan robes welcoming and giving talks to visitors amongst the halftimbered medieval buildings and the 500 year old walled gardens. The Great Hall, Guild Hall and Courtyard of the Lord Leycester Hospital are used for banquets, concerts and celebrations.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION GO TO:

www.stmaryswarwick.org.uk

HP Template.indd 81

www.lordleycester.com

13/04/2018 14:28


Days out The National Civil War Centre tells the story of Britain’s deadliest conflict

The town that won the war

Find out more at www. nationalcivilwar centre.com

Head back to the 1600s and discover the fascinating part Newark had to play in the National Civil War

A

FAN OF 17TH century civil wars?

than 16,000 troops seal off the town

Then Newark’s your place. The

and dam a river to stop water mills

the bitterness, despair and bravery of the

producing bread and gunpowder.

conflict. When the Royalists initially debated

National Civil War Centre at Newark

The six month siege ended in May 1646.

their King’s order to surrender Newark, the

story of Britain’s deadliest conflict that

With his fortunes at breaking point, a disguised

defiant Mayor said it was better to ‘Trust in

shaped our modern world. Discover how

King Charles escaped from his makeshift capital

God and Sally Forth’. This is still remembered

the people of Newark survived three

in Oxford and made contact with the Scottish

today and has become the town’s motto.

sieges – only for a plague to then ravage

army assailing Newark. By surrendering to the

Amazingly, despite the huge significance of

the town – and put yourself on the front

Scots he hoped to drive a wedge between

the British Civil Wars, there is nowhere else

line as you aim to destroy the Governor’s

them and their English Parliamentary allies.

in the UK that tells the complete story.”

House as a Parliamentarian gunner...

But they insisted that Newark must yield

Museum in Nottinghamshire tells the

Newark was pivotal to the National Civil War as the town lay at the crossroads of the Great North Road and the

immediately. The King had no choice but to

PLAY YOUR VISIT

order the loyal garrison to lay down its arms.

The museum plays host to a series of events

“Newark’s capitulation signalled the

throughout the year, including next month’s

Fosse Way, and provided an important

end of what is often called the First

Annual Civil War Festival, from May 6-7

crossing point over the River Trent.

Civil War,” says Michael Constantine of

(expect more than 300 re-enactors, live

the museum. “Within three years King

cannon fire and more). Group discounts are

Charles was executed by Parliament.

available and English Heritage members get

Parliamentary forces and their Scottish allies were desperate to oust the Royalist garrison, and the last siege saw more

“It’s an extraordinary tale, reflecting both

a 50% discount.

GTW

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DISCOVER OUR BRAND NEW EXHIBITIONS FROM 29TH MARCH

CUTTING EDGE the changing tools of war

I

I

SHAKING THE FOUNDATIONS THE QUEST FOR DEMOCRACY

nationalcivilwarcentre.com www.nvr.org.uk

PE8 6

Steam the Nene Valley between rural idyll and historic city

l

1/2 mile from A1

l

1 mile from A47 junction

l

8 miles north of Peterborough

l

Group rates

l

Drop-off area... Ample parking

l

Shop, Museum and Café

Combine with the Georgian beauty of Stamford, Burghley House or historic Oundle (8 miles away). Or Peterborough Cathedral and Queensgate Shopping experiences (8 miles away).

01780 784444

NENE VALLEY RAILWAY Wansford Station, Old Great North Road, Stibbington, Peterborough PE8 6LR

HP Template.indd 83

Charity 262617

13/04/2018 13:45


Days out

24

HOURS IN...

SHEFFIELD

Take a tour of Sheffield Cathedral

Discover the city’s historical gems and ghostly past on a whistle-stop tour

Sheffield Cathedral, highlights include

Words: Angela Youngman

tours can be booked at both cathedrals,

S

the Tudor Shrewsbury Chapel, the Medieval Chancel and Sanctuary and the Regimental Chapel of St George. Guided find out more at www.sheffieldcathedral. org and www.stmariecathedral.org

TART WITH A trip to Cutler’s Hall – one

has sought to maintain the standards and

of Sheffield’s hidden secrets. Behind its

quality of Sheffield-manufactured cutlery

You can also re-visit the early years of

doors is a world of grandeur and heritage that

and steel, and a vast range of these wares

the Industrial Revolution at the Abbeydale

can be accessed via a guided tour conducted

can be seen on display in the hall, which

Industrial Hamlet. This unique 18th century

by the Beadle, Deputy Beadle or Archivist.

has been described as one of the finest

industrial works originally produced agricultural

Established by a Parliamentary Act of

livery halls in the north of England. Find

tools and steelworks. It was the largest water

out more at www.cutlershall.co.uk

powered industrial site on the River Don,

Incorporation in 1642, the Cutler’s Company

TWO FOR THE PRICE OF ONE

including workers’ houses, workshops,

After a spot of lunch (you’ll be spoiled for

waterwheels and tilt hammers. Talks and

choice as Sheffield is big on chain eateries

guided tours can be arranged, see www.simt.

and quirky one-off cafés), squeeze in a visit

co.uk/abbeydale-industrial-hamlet

to one of the city’s two cathedrals: St Marie’s The Cutler’s Hall is just one of Sheffield’s hidden secret

and today visitors can explore the buildings,

Cathedral and Sheffield Cathedral. At St Marie’s there’s a wealth of fine

IF YOU HAVE TIME... Visit Kelham Island, situated in one of the city’s

carving, sculptures and stained glass

oldest industrial districts. It forms a man-made

windows to be discovered. Over at

island that’s over 900 years old, and is now

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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 £25 for 12 issues (plus free delivery to your door every month) you’d be mad not to join us!

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TERMS & CONDITIONS: This offer closes July 30th 2018. You will not receive a renewal reminder and recurring payments will continue to be taken unless you tell us otherwise. Standard prices are £25 for 12 issues or £15 for 6 issues.Costs from mobiles per minute are (approximately) 10p to 40p. Costs vary depending on the geographical location in the UK. To subscribe, our offices open from 8.30am - 4.30pm (Mon-Fri) or go online at www.grouptravelworld.com/subscribe. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. For full terms and conditions go to www.grouptravelworld.com/termsandconditions

GTW Subscriptions FP.indd 85

13/04/2018 13:14


Shakespeare’s Birthplace & FAMILY HOMES Offer your group a unique Shakespeare-centred experience with visits, tours and special interest talks at the beautiful historic houses and gardens of Shakespeare’s Family Homes in Stratford-upon-Avon. Treat your group to a range of refreshments at the picturesque cafes with options for all tastes and budgets.

BOOK AHEAD AND SAVE UP TO 25% To book contact our Group Sales Team: E: Groups@shakespeare.org.uk T: 01789 201806 SHAKESPEARE.ORG.UK Registered Charity Number 209302 Untitled-1 86 FP Template.indd 15

13/04/2018 12:15 08/03/2018 10:41


Days out Take a walking tour of Sheffield’s historical buildings

WILL ROBERTS

Kelham Island Brewery

Kelham Island Museum tells the story of Sheffield’s role in the Industrial Revolution

home to the Kelham Island Museum, which

for those prepared to explore its darker side

focuses on the story of Sheffield’s role in the

– so before dinner, join Steel City Ghost Tours

Beneath Your Feet Gallery at the Weston

Industrial Revolution.

If history’s more your thing, enjoy the

(www.steelcityghosttours.co.uk) for tales

Park Museum. Over 500 objects that have

It contains one of the few remaining

of murder and scandal while strolling the streets.

been discovered in the area are on display,

Bessemer Converters in the world, as well

If you prefer, a Sheffield City Walking Tour

together with a replica Iron Age roundhouse.

as locally made vehicles, including the iconic

offers a fun and informative walking tour of

Sheffield Simplex car. Group tours can be

the city, covering old and new, across 900

arranged focusing on any aspect of the

years of history – and bringing visitors right up

whistle-stop tour, take in the vast expanses

museum’s varied collections, visit www.

to date with the post-industrial 21st century

of plants and greenery at the Sheffield

simt.co.uk/kelham-island-museum

quarters of the city centre. Guided tours out to

Botanical Gardens (www.sbg.org.uk).

Not far away is the Kelham Island Brewery (www.kelhambrewery. co.uk). An award-winning independent

surrounding Peak District can also be arranged. Find out more at www.sheffieldtours.com

See www.museums-sheffield.org.uk Finally, if you can find time on your

Beautiful at all times of the year, rhododendrons dot the woodland in late spring. Laid out in Georgian times,

craft beer revolution. Brewery tours offer

FROM SHOPPING TO SNOWDROPS

the opportunity to learn how beer is

The next morning, enjoy a visit to the famous

Garden Up landscape show each year,

made before enjoying a pint or two.

Meadowhall Shopping Centre, just three

complete with multiple show gardens,

miles from the city centre, with its 200-plus

and groups of 10 or more can book a

high street stores, countless places to

guided tour of the gardens looking at their

eat and an 11-screen cinema.

history, restoration and planting.

brewery, it’s at the forefront of the UK

GHOSTLY GOINGS-ON Sheffield can take on a very different aspect

these gardens now attract thousands of visitors annually. The attraction hosts the

GTW

WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

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Visit

Peterborough City of Festivals! One of UK’s top hthae marathonslf !

astern Run E t a e r G s in k Per ctober

Italian Festi 8 and 9 Sept val

14 O

hicle intage Ve ber V d n a Classic 1 and 2 Septem Festival

Festival Heritage 7 June 16 and 1

tival h Fes Polis July 1

ember

Diwali Festiva l 27 Oc

tober

Christmas Festival Switch on 17 November

Katharine of Ar agon Festival 26 and 2 9 January

For more information call

Okt 19 an oberfest d 20 Octob er

Organised by

01733 452336

or visit www.visitpeterborough.com

Untitled-1 88

No 10thw in its year !

City Services and Communications

13/04/2018 12:16


WW1 centenary The RAF’s aerobatic team, the Red Arrows (seen here at IWM Duxford), will be out in force this summer to mark the force’s centenary

JONATHAN SMITH

The best of

British A

As the RAF celebrates its centenary this month – and 2018 marks the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War – we round-up the events, tributes and parades in honour of the occasion

PRIL 1ST MARKS the Royal Air Force’s

Remembrance Centre until June 30, this free

centenary – making it the oldest

exhibition features a selection of individual

Memorial walk

independent air force in the world – with

pieces by David, who says: “The Royal Air

A memorial walk developed to honour

celebratory events including a centenary

Force’s attitude has always been progressive

those Scone men who lost their lives

service and parade in central London on

and cutting edge. For me, their motto Per

during the First World War has been

Tuesday July 10. A limited number of tickets

Ardua ad Astra – from adversity to the stars

unveiled. The walk, which runs around

are available for the Service in Westminster

– sums them up perfectly. From the earliest

Scone and its outskirts, including Scone

Abbey (including reception), or access to

days, a century of hard work, imagination,

Palace, is accompanied by audio stories

the reception only on Horse Guards Parade,

skill and courage has taken the Air Force to

that tell the tales of the 71 Scone

from where you can view the flypast – see

the extremes of modernity and 3D space.

men who served in the Great War.

www.raf.mod.uk/raf100 for details.

This has provided the inspiration for my new

See www.scone-palace.co.uk

The RAF’s birthday is also being

collection of work.” See www.thenma.org.uk

marked by a special artistic tribute, which has just been unveiled at the National

WAR AND PEACE

its recent re-opening means the region has yet

Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.

The Museum of War and Peace in the French

another major attraction for visitors.

‘Tribute 100’, an exhibition by leading

Ardennes is all set to welcome visitors to its

For 75 years – from France’s defeat at

aviation artist David Bent, pays tribute to

battlefields and monuments in the 100th

Sedan in 1870, to the end of the Second

the legacy and ongoing contribution of the

anniversary year of the conclusion of the First

World War in 1945 – the French Ardennes

Royal Air Force. On display in the Arboretum’s

World War. Closed for refurbishment in 2008,

stood at the crossroads of history, as well WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

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WW1 centenary as in the very front line of conflict. The

The Museum of War & Peace

Museum of War and Peace preserves the memory of the Franco-Prussian War of 1870, as well as the First and Second World Wars, housing a collection of more than 14,000 items. Located on the A34 which links Reims and Paris with Charleville-Mézières, The Museum is also the gateway to The French

CARL-HOCQUART

Ardennes’ many remembrance sites. Find out more at www.guerreetpaix.fr/en

THE SPIRITUAL HOME OF THE RAF It’s been called the spiritual home of the RAF,

national RAF centenary celebrations in 2018. New trails and tours include a digital trail

Bomber Command Centre visitor centre, the world’s most comprehensive record of Bomber

was at the centre of the UK’s fledgling aviation

‘100 voices over 100 years’ offering an insight

Command, which sits high on a hill overlooking

industry, home to the world’s first military air

into a century of aviation history revealed

Lincoln. At its heart stands a 31 metre tall

academy and known as Bomber County during

through the voices of those involved with

memorial spire, the UK’s tallest war memorial,

the Second World War. Lincolnshire was also

aviation. While groups can learn about one

surrounded by the Walls of Names, bearing

Dambusters country, while today its skies are

of the most famous landmarks in RAF history

the names of men and women who lost their

home to one of the world’s greatest air display

at the Cranwell Aviation Heritage Museum,

lives serving or supporting Bomber Command.

teams – the RAF Red Arrows – as well as

which tells the story of Royal Air Force College

Find out more about all of these attractions

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. So it’s no

Cranwell – the world’s first military air academy.

– and download a sample aviation heritage

surprise that the county will be at the centre of

The county is also home to the International

itinerary – at www.visitlincoln.com/groups Lincolnshire’s rich aviation heritage is still very much alive at a host of other museums and

See where it all started...

living memorials across the county, including:

Hampshire was at the very forefront

the Royal Naval Air Service to become

■ The

of the formation of the RAF, with

The RAF in 1918.

Heritage Centre in Spilsby

Farnborough being the place where one

Farnborough Air Sciences Trust stands

■ The

Lincolnshire Aviation Battle of Britain Memorial Flight

Visitor Centre at RAF Coninsgby

of the forerunners of the RAF, the Royal

on the very same site in Farnborough,

Flying Corps (RFC), was created. Largely

and commemorates all of this, and more,

dedicated to operations over the Western

in its wonderfully eclectic museum,

www.aviationheritagelincolnshire.com;

Front, the RFC would later merge with

see www.airsciences.org.uk

and for details of Lincolnshire’s RAF centenary

Find out more by visiting the website

events, see www.visitlincoln.com

GTW

Lincolnshire’s International Bomber Command Centre

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Dragonfly Hotel Peterborough is the ideal setting for a short break or business trip and overlooks a serene lake which is home to Peterborough’s International Rowing Course. When choosing from hotels in Peterborough for your stay, this hotel in Peterborough is located just off the A47 with great transport links to the local area.

QP Template.indd 91

Thorpe Meadows, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE3 6GA

T: 01733 564240 E: en uiries dragon

eter oroug co u

www.dragonflypeterborough.co.uk

Local attractions like the beautiful Peterborough Cathedral, Hamerton Zoo Park, and Nene Valley Railway can be reached easily from the hotel. Nene Park is also nearby, where outdoor enthusiasts can find plenty of open spaces, lakes, riverside walks, and woodland. Some of the 70 bedrooms at Dragonfly Hotel Peterborough offer peaceful views over the rowing lake.

13/04/2018 14:36


Sky’s The

the

limit

The best air shows, aviation museums and attractions set to take off in 2018

Frame it!

Photos: Jonathan Smith

all taken by aviation enthusiast

Like our fantastic images? They were Jonathan Smith, and if you’d like one

THOSE MAGNIFICENT MEN...

with a range of aircraft from around the

to frame, they’re available to buy at

...in their flying machines. And where better

world set to descend on the Gloucestershire

tinyurl.com/yah3pn27

to see them than the world-famous Royal

skies, as well as a variety of static aircraft.

International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford, as pictured above.

This year sees Patrulla Aguila, Spain’s

Jonathan’s been to virtually every air show there is. His favourite? “The Royal

national aerobatic team, return to the Air

International Air Tattoo, as it features

Tattoo in celebration of the RAF’s 100th

more modern jets.” See left for more

for this year’s event, with three full days of

birthday, as well as Hellenic Air Force’s

on the show – and get set to enjoy the

flying displays from July 13-15 as the Tattoo

F-16 demo team, Zeus. Tickets must

likes of this (our main image shows the

salutes the RAF’s centenary year. For aviation

be bought in advance – for details

Italian display team at the Tattoo).

enthusiasts it’s the Wimbledon of air shows,

see www.airtattoo.com

The countdown’s well and truly underway

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Days out The Red Arrows at IWM Duxford

The Red Bull display team

The Italian display team, Frecce Tricolori, at the Royal International Air Tattoo

EXPLORE A CENTURY OF FLIGHT

three hours, her passengers could marvel

– and there’s no finer place in the UK to see

Step aboard the last Concorde ever to fly,

at the curvature of the Earth as they sipped

examples of the aircraft they flew than The

then travel back in time to the earliest days of

champagne on the edge of space – a feat

Shuttleworth Collection in Bedfordshire.

aviation history... a trip to the newly-opened

that will not happen again for many years.

Established by Dorothy Shuttleworth,

A group visits guide is available to read

following the tragic death of her son Richard

than a century of flight as you journey through

online, see aerospacebristol.org. If you’re

in a flying accident, the collection strives to

the First and Second World Wars, discover

heading there as a family, tickets start at

ensure everything’s in full working order,

the drama of the space race, and wind up in

£36 (for four people).

including Richard’s first aircraft, a deHavilland

Aerospace Bristol reveals the story of more

the modern day. The show-stopping centrepiece is, of

SEE WHERE IT ALL BEGAN

DH60X Moth. The attraction’s home to an array of cars

course, Concorde 216. Designed, built and

If it wasn’t for two brothers from Dayton,

and aircraft, some of which are the only flying

tested in Bristol, she was the last Concorde

Ohio, the UK’s aerospace sector would never

examples anywhere in the world. And the

to be built and the last to fly. Capable of

have taken off (pun intended). The Wright

collection ranges from a 1909 Blériot (the

cruising at more than twice the speed of

brothers captured the imagination of the world

oldest flying aircraft in the world) to the 1934

sound and crossing the Atlantic in under

when they cracked the art of powered flight

deHavilland Comet Racer (the winner of the WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

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Days out MacRobertson Air Race).Tours of the hangars can be arranged, and a series of air shows are planned throughout the summer season, from May to October. Find out more at www.shuttleworth.org

FEEL IN-SPIRED The newly-opened International Bomber Command Centre (IBCC) in Lincolnshire serves

A Supermarine Seafire at IWM Duxford

as a point for recognition, remembrance and reconciliation for those who served, supported or suffered the bombing campaigns during the

AND DON’T MISS...

Second World War, see internationalbcc.co.uk

■ RAF

Cosford Airshow in Shropshire,

www.lincsaviation.co.uk

June 10, www.cosfordairshow.co.uk

■ Eastbourne

records of the Command in the world, the

■ Flywheel

in East Sussex, August 16-19,

IBCC features two peace gardens, including the

in Oxfordshire, June 23-24,

www.eastbourneairshow.com

Lincolnshire Peace Garden, with its 27 native

www.flywheelfestival.com

■ Festival

trees – marking each of the operation Bomber

■ Wales

August 18-19, britishairshows.com/

Providing one of the most comprehensive

Command stations in the UK during the War. At the heart of the IBCC is the Memorial

Festival at Bicester Airfield

Airshow in Swansea Bay, June 30

International Airshow

of Flight at Biggin Hill in Kent,

to July 1, www.walesnationalairshow.com

biggin-hill-festival-of-flight-airshow.html

■ Flying

■ Little

Legends at IWM Duxford,

Gransden Airshow in Cambridgeshire,

Spire. The tallest war memorial in the UK, it

July 14-15, www.flyinglegends.com

August 26, www.littlegransdenshow.co.uk

commands views across Lincoln cathedral,

■ Scotland’s

■ Scottish

which served as a sighting point for crews

East Fortune, July 28, www.nms.ac.uk/

seafront, September 1-2, www.tsia.scot

flying from Lincolnshire. The height and

national-museum-of-flight/whats-on/

■ Battle

width of the Spire are the exact same as

airshow/

September 22-23, www.iwm.org.uk/

that of the wing of an Avro Lancaster, and

■ Kirkby

events/duxford-battle-of-britain-air-

for many of the 58,000 men and women

Aviation Heritage Centre, August 4,

National Airshow in

Airshow at the Lincolnshire

International Airshow on Ayr

of Britain Airshow at IWM Duxford,

show-2018

GTW

named on the accompanying walls, the cathedral provided their last sight of Britain.

The Boeing B17 Flying Fortress at IWM Duxford

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S W O H S R I A AT W W W.

MAY-OCT

2018

H T R O W E SHUTTL

OR W E L T T SHU

TH.O

H OW S R I A / RG

S

OLD WARDEN AERODROME, BEDFORDSHIRE, SG18 9EP

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The ultimate

all-inclusive Organised tours and special interest holidays take the hard work out of planning a trip away. We explore what’s out there for groups – and meet the experts whose job it is to ensure your break is hassle-free

off at one of the many cafés and restaurants.

gardens of Sri Lanka, as well as returning

Then it’s on to Zundert’s Bloemencorso with

to the botanical paradises of South

UNDERT’S FLOWER PARADE in the

its floral floats full of dazzling dahlias. Find

America and South Africa. An extended

Netherlands has been an annual fixture

out more at www.group-travel.com

program in Europe will include a grand

Words: Naomi MacKay

Z

in September since 1936. A holiday there,

Flower and garden lovers will also want

train journey on the Golden Eagle Danube Express from Budapest to Venice.

organised by Norman Allen Group Travel,

to check out the offerings from Botanica

includes entrance to view the floats with seats

World Discoveries, which has compiled

in the grandstand near the main square. But

more than 40 garden-themed cruises

Singapore Garden Festival, the Melbourne

first you’ll visit ‘s-Hertogenbosch, a 12th

and tours that span six continents.

Flower & Garden Show, Queensland Garden

century fortified city. Take a canal boat trip on the waterways underneath the city and stop

In 2018/2019, for the first time ever Botanica will delve deep into the tropical

Further afield, Botanica guests can visit the

Expo, Floriade in Canberra, the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers and, in New Zealand,

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Holidays

Explore the Netherlands with Norman Allen Group Travel

Puszuta Horse Show.

the Taranaki Garden Spectacular. Each tour

is as much a part of the

is accompanied by a botanical guide, and

holiday as the various tours

TV presenter Monty Don is a regular guest-

and activities along the way. Alfa

lecturer, as is Rosemary Alexander, the

Travel has introduced a new River

founder of the English Gardening School

Cruise programme, which allows guest to

and regular judge at the Chelsea Flower

cruise the Danube aboard its floating hotels

offering with its Northern Croatia: The Istrian

Show. See www.botanicatours.com

(see www.alfatravel.co.uk).

Riviera and Zagreb holiday. This allows guests

The Danube cruise includes a number

Riviera Travel (www. rivieratravel.co.uk) is already

well known for its river cruises, and this year it has added a new programme to its

to experience the stunning Istrian peninsula

TAKE TO THE WATER

of fascinating excursions, such as Melk

with its vineyard-clad hills. Visitors can enjoy

Cruising on Europe’s rivers is a relaxing way to

Abbey, Schönbrunn Palace, the Budapest

guided tours of two of Istria’s remarkably

get the most out of your trip, as the journey

City Tour, Budapest by Night, and the

preserved towns: Pula with its Roman WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

096-098 GTW Apr 18 Activity tour operator.indd 97

PIXABAY

Turn to our Q&A section on page 106 for more advice from the experts at Jules Verne

97

27/03/2018 15:48


Holidays amphitheatre and Porec with its Euphrasian Basilica. The spectacular islands of Cres and Krk are also on the itinerary.

Brightwater takes groups everywhere from Barra in the Outer Hebrides (pictured here) to Tibet

For a Christmas treat, the new Danube’s Imperial cities and Yuletide Markets River Cruise will get you feeling festive as you enjoy a guided tour of the grand imperial city of Vienna, before exploring some of the capital’s traditional markets with its huge range of inspirational gifts and tempting Christmas fayre. There is also a chance to find out more about the city of two halves, during a guided tour of the fascinating Hungarian capital Budapest, and find out what its own seasonal markets have to offer.

THE PLOT THICKENS If you like a bit of historical intrigue, Travel Editions’ new short break, The Gunpowder Plot: The Truth about Guy Fawkes, is for you. Join two medieval historians to find out the truth about Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, visiting key sites in the story as you go. You may think you already know all about the tale of the Gunpowder Plot, but the truth is a complicated tale, explored on this fascinating new tour in the company of two

Find out more at www.brightwater holidays.com

knowledgeable historians, Mike Ingram and Michael Hodgetts. Or perhaps you’d like discover the Art Deco world of Liverpool, which includes visits to the Metropolitan and Anglican Cathedrals, the Walker Art Gallery and, intriguingly, the Mersey Tunnel ventilation station! For lovers of a similar era, the tour of Arts and Crafts houses will be right up their street. Explore the lovely

Look on the Bright side

Andrew Sharples, Product Development Manager at Brightwater Holidays, reveals what makes a great group trip

villages of Broadway and Chipping Campden, visit Stanway House and Fountain and enjoy

GTW: Any tips for organisers looking

District; The Faroes (this was the most

Hidcote’s delightful Arts & Crafts gardens.

to book with Brightwater Holidays?

popular new destination in a poll of our

If food is your main interest, a culinary

Andrew: It’s always good if you have a

travellers); Gardens of Slovenia; Flora and

tour of Crete will satisfy your appetite. As

clear idea of where you want to go, when

Fauna of Madagascar; Yunnan and Tibet; In

well as local fare, tradition, culture and local

you want to go, the duration of the tour

the Footsteps of the Picts; and Outlander.

life are all on the menu when you stay in the

and the likely number of people. We’re

historic Venetian harbour of Rethymnon and

always happy to give advice on possible

GTW: Any ideas for a short haul trip?

discover traditional village tavernas. Find

destinations and tour content, but the

Andrew: Any of our UK tours would be

out more at www.traveleditions.co.uk

more information you can give us at the

suitable as they are generally four or five

start of the process the better. Always

days long. Some of our new offerings

remember that it’s your holiday and we’ll

include the V&A Museum in Dundee; Rose

tailor it to your precise specifications.

Gardens of the Midlands including David

Explore the world with Travel Editions

Austin Roses; Gardens of Shropshire and GTW: Are there new trips coming

the Severn Valley Railway and Mull Wildlife.

up that would appeal to groups? Andrew: All our trips are designed with

GTW: Do you have advice for those

groups in mind, so hopefully all will appeal!

sorting larger group holidays?

We’re always working on ideas and have

Andrew: We’re happy to work with groups

a number of new tours being launched

of any size, as long as we know the room

for later in 2018 and into 2019. These

requirements in advance. We’ve dealt with

include In the Footsteps of Sir Winston

conference groups of up to 200, and have

Churchill; Flying Scotsman to the Lake

also organised private group tours.

GTW

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groups@alfatravel.co.uk 13/04/2018 12:19


Industry insider For more on the CTA and its member benefits see www. coachtourism association.co.uk

Encore’s John Wales (second from left) with new board members Daniel Kirby (far left), Colin Fawcus and Roger Bull

The dawn of a new era Discover why 2018’s set to be an exciting year for the Coach Tourism Association and its members...

T

COACH TOURISM

ASSOCIATION

CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS This year’s conference was held in Blackpool, where delegates heard details of the iconic resort’s future from Philip Welsh, Head of Visitor Economy. Stressing the long-term repositioning of the

HE COACH TOURISM Association (CTA),

and involved in the industry since 1982

the UK voice of coaching holidays, has

– working in various aspects of the trade,

destination to attract visitors on a year-round

embarked on a new era following the election

including a ferry company, tour operators,

basis, he highlighted developments, such as

of a new chairman and board members at its

restaurants and, latterly, the founder and

a new £25 million conference centre, a

recent 2018 Conference.

CEO of Encore since 2000.

£16 million rollercoaster at the Pleasure

As previous chairman Denise Bridges stepped

“The timing is perfect. Now we have a new

Beach, investment in Blackpool Tower, the

down after three years, the role was taken over

CEO in place at Encore, I have the increased

Winter Gardens, an IMAX cinema as well as a

by John Wales of Encore, who’s joined by three

capacity to dedicate to the role, and over the

number of key hotel developments. Blackpool

new board members – Daniel Kirby of Kirby’s

next three months, along with the association’s

currently has 18 million visitors per year who

Coaches, Roger Bull of RB Travel and Colin

CEO Chris Wales (no relation!), and the new

generate £1.496 billion within the local

Fawcus of DFDS Ferries, with Robert Shaw

vice-chairman, Robert Shaw, I will be working

economy and support over 25,000 jobs.

of Harry Shaw taking over as vice-chairman.

with the board to devise the vision and

Turning to the countryside, delegates were

strategy for the CTA, that will deliver a clear

treated to a live Q&A session from BBC

honoured to be elected chairman of the CTA,

direction and increased value to members

Countryfile’s Anita Rani with producer of the

having been a board member for over six years

going forward.”

Countryfile Live show Tim Etchells. A major

John Wales says: “I’m delighted and

group attraction, Countryfile Live is held this year at Blenheim Palace in August. Members also learned about the importance of the over 50s market from Silver Travel Advisor’s Debbie Marshall, as well as important facts about forthcoming emission rules from Simon Smith of the Confederation of Passenger Transport. Meeting people was a key element in the CTA chief executive Chris Wales (left) and treasurer Steve Lee from Anderson Travel, say a fond farewell to retiring chairperson Denise Bridges from Albatross Travel.

three-day conference and AGM, and the Debbie Marshall talks to conference delegates in the Imperial Hotel, Blackpool.

B2B workshop involved more than 500 speed-dating appointments with suppliers from all over the UK.

GTW

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GTW Awards

On winning form Our Group Travel World Awards celebrate the attractions that go the extra mile to make groups feel welcome. So drum roll please as we announce this month’s winners...

BEST ATTRACTION

Royal Opera House Based in London’s Covent Garden, The Royal Opera House aims to enrich people’s lives through opera and ballet. Home to two of the world’s great artistic companies – The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet, performing with the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, visit www.roh.org.uk for more on all

BEST ATTRACTION

the ticket options

Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre

and upcoming performances.

This Leicestershire centre tells the dramatic story of the Battle of Bosworth in 1485, which marked a major turning point in English history. Discover how the Plantagenet reign ended and the Tudor dynasty began when Richard III lost his life and crown on the battlefield at the hands of Henry Tudor’s army. The centre is the ideal place for school visits, offering a range of fun and interactive educational sessions, delivered by a skilled team of re-enactors and

The GTW award-winning Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre

museum educators. Find out more at www.bosworthbattlefield.org.uk

Plan your route for London

Supplement

2018

Guide to London - to request your free copy email emma.parkes@ grouptravelworld.com

www.traveljobsworld.com

online listing for jobs in travel

Discounts Visit www.grouptraveloffers.com for discounted tickets to popular UK and European events

Exclusive trip

Access to

Travel Jobs

Bigger

invitation

Subscribe www.grouptravelworld. com/subscribe

Group Travel Organisers plus a guest, test out the trip before taking your group

We want YOUR

thoughts!

Your voice is important to us, so tell us about your favourite trips and the benefits of your Group Travel World subscription. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Call Emma Parkes on 01733 293487 Email emma.parkes@grouptravelworld.com Visit www.grouptravelworld.com/subscribe

13/04/2018 11:33:52

27/03/2018 14:02 15:52 13/04/2018


Subscribe to Group Travel World magazine today for your chance to WIN!

WIN TICKETS TO THE GAYDON MILITARY SHOW! We have two pairs of tickets to give away. Group Travel World readers are invited to explore military through the decades on Sunday September 30 when the British Motor Museum in Warwickshire hosts the Gaydon Military Show. Now in its third year, the show encompasses all aspects of military history with a range of activities to enjoy. *T&Cs: All elements of the prizes are subject to availability and no cash alternative is available. Travel and accommodation not included.

To enter, see below, before the closing date of June 1, 2018.

SUBSCRIBE IN 3 EASY STEPS

Call Emma Parkes on 01733 293487 Email emma.parkes@grouptravelworld.com Visit www.grouptravelworld.com/subscribe ENTER ONLINE AT

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13/04/2018 10:57:34 13/04/2018 13:36


London & Partners

Notting Hill Carnival

Discover London Neighbourhoods: Notting Hill Explore this area’s hidden and not-so hidden gems

E

ACH OF LONDON’S many

NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL

neighbourhoods is proud of its

Every August, a million people line the streets

own identity, and as part of London

to celebrate Europe’s biggest street festival –

& Partners’ initiative to showcase top

the Notting Hill Carnival, a Caribbean themed

neighbourhoods city-wide, we are focusing

festival. Expect to see a long parade of floats

on a different area each month.

as 50,000 performers run along the carnival

This month we walk through the colourful

route, bringing the streets alive with glittering

London & Partners is the Mayor of London’s official promotional agency. ■ Sign up for its monthly travel trade newsletter at londonandpartners. com/travel-trade ■ Join its trade group on Linkedin: ‘London & Partners - Travel Trade’ ■ Find out more at londonandpartners. com/travel-trade

streets of Notting Hill in west London,

costumes, steel bands, Calypso music and

perhaps most famous for the romantic

food. The three-day event includes the kick-off

comedy film starring Hugh Grant and Julia

Saturday event Panorama, the carnival opening

Roberts. Surprisingly, this lively area is

Jouvert on Sunday morning, followed by the

PORTOBELLO MARKET

also home to some quirky hidden gems,

Parade. The Grand Finale closes the festival

Notting Hill’s popular Portobello Market is so

including a museum dedicated to product

with a huge street party on the Monday. Visit

named because it runs along the colourful

packaging. For more ideas for London

thelondonnottinghillcarnival.com

Portobello Road. On weekdays, locals buy

itineraries, visit our travel trade website londonandpartners.com/travel-trade

MUSEUM OF BRANDS, PACKAGING AND ADVERTISING

is the busiest market day when all the antiques market stalls are in position and the

Delve into 150 years of social history as

bargain hunters arrive. There are also some

you explore how well-loved brands, such as

great clothing stalls to find along the way.

Cadbury and Twining’s, have evolved from

Nearly a kilometre long, this bustling west

the Victorian era through to present day. The

London market offers an endless variety of

museum boasts displays of more than 12,000

merchandise – dive in and you’re sure to find a

posters, toys, games, fashion and technology.

unique souvenir. Visit portobelloroad.co.uk

Discover changes to British culture through the

Portobello Market

fresh fruit and vegetables here, but Saturday

evolution of graphic design and the influence

GET HERE BY...

of events such as World War II, the Queen’s

■ Tube:

Coronation and the 1966 World Cup. A trip to

station in the area and is served by the

the museum would not be complete without

Central line, the District line and the Circle line.

a visit to its award-winning garden and café.

Alternatively, use Westbourne Park station or

Groups of 10 or more can take advantage of a

Ladbroke Grove station on the Hammersmith

10% discount. Visit museumofbrands.com

and City line and Circle line.

Notting Hill Gate is the main Tube

GTW

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UKinbound news Bamburgh Castle

VISIT NORTHUMBERLAND

A county for all seasons Visit Northumberland reveals why this hidden gem of a county is well worth exploring – whatever the time of year...

N

ORTHUMBERLAND IS

gardens, including the unique

attractions from the Heavy Horse

a county brimming with

Quarry Gardens of Bide-a-Wee

Centre to a stream railway. The

opportunities for an unforgettable

and Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens.

Heritage Centre in Bellingham is

holiday whatever the time of

Howick Hall, the ancestral seat

a hidden gem, celebrating life in

year. Famous for its stunning

of the Grey family since 1319

the North Tyne and Redesdale

coastline and rugged countryside,

and home to Earl Grey tea, wakes

communities, where you can

picturesque villages and market

up with snowdrops every spring.

learn about life in one of

towns, iconic attractions and

The Alnwick Garden is open all

England’s rural communities.

word-class events, you’re

year round, but events such as

assured of a warm welcome.

the Cherry Blossom Festival

AUTUMN

Read on for our seasonal

highlight the delights of spring.

At a time when many destinations

guide to decide when your first (or next!) visit will be...

SUMMER

are winding down, autumn is the perfect time for an indulgent trip

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

Visitors to Northumberland are

to Northumberland. If the weather

spoilt for choice in summer, with

isn’t favourable, lose yourself in its

Northumberland blossoms in

an abundance of attractions

history. From Vikings to Romans,

showers and the glow of the

the spring, with the country’s

and activities to choose from.

Border Reivers to Pitmen Painters,

Milky Way can be seen in stunning

most tranquil national park, two

Stay beside the seaside at

you can see them brought to life

clarity in winter. Learn from the

Areas of Outstanding Natural

Northumberland coast AONB;

in museums and galleries such

experts at Kielder Observatory;

Beauty (AONB) and many nature

explore Bamburgh Castle and

as the Roman Army Museum,

stay in a Dark Sky Friendly cottage

reserves waiting to be explored.

Lindisfarne Priory, and enjoy

Hexham Old Gaol and Woodhorn.

for DIY stargazing; take a midnight

freshly-caught local seafood from

At the end of it all, sit back in a

stroll on the beach for a glimpse

to Kielder Water & Forest Park,

one of the fantastic cafés and

cosy pub and sample a locally

of the Northern Lights.

discover rare black grouse in

restaurants.

sourced menu.

SPRING

Watch for the ospreys returning

the heather moorland of the

Venture inland and discover a

By day, explore seaside towns and rural villages, especially

North Pennines AONB, or watch

multitude of walking, cycling and

WINTER

pufflings hatch on Coquet Island

sightseeing opportunities. Delve

Home to Europe’s largest

producers show off the quality

and the Farne Islands, while grey

into the epic history of Hadrian’s

International Dark Sky Park,

of their wares at festive markets

seals snooze on the shoreline.

Wall, and discover the chocolate

Northumberland is the land that’s

and fairs throughout the county.

box villages of Ford and Etal,

just as good with the lights off!

■ See

offering a range of activities and

Shimmering stars, dazzling meteor

com/grouptravel

Many of Northumberland’s heritage sites have stunning

around Christmas, when local

visitnorthumberland. GTW

WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

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Be Dubai-savvy before you travel

Your travel questions answered by experts China’s Guangxi Province PIXABAY

GROUP TRAVEL

When in Dubai... in public.

Jonathan Mansfield, Bedfordshire

■ Women should dress modestly in public

A Stephen Davis, CMO at Kiwi.com, says:

areas like shopping malls. Swimming attire

Key British hotspots around the world,

swimming pools. Cross-dressing is illegal.

QAny ideas for how to go about

including Dubai, have very strict rules and

■ Public displays of affection are frowned upon,

customs to adhere to, so you’re right to do

and you can be arrested for kissing in public.

organising a cultural, off-the-beaten-

your research. As a guide, bear in mind the

■ Photography of certain government

track foreign tour?

following when travelling in the country:

buildings and military installations isn’t allowed.

Jane Frusher, Lincolnshire

■ Alcoholic drinks are served in licensed hotels

You could also be detained for two months

A Leszek Szteinduchert, Commercial

and clubs, but it is a punishable offence to

for plane spotting.

GROUP TOURS

SHUTTERSTOCK

QWe’re heading to Dubai in the autumn.

drink, or to be under the influence of alcohol,

Any advice on the local dos and don’ts?

Jules in the crown

Manager at Jules Verne, a tour operator that specialises in escorted tours around the world (www.vjv.com), says: First off, you must familiarise yourself with operators

Access all areas?

QI’m a fan of vintage aircraft and would

who are focused and experienced in that field.

love to combine a visit to Cambridge with a

Here at Jules Verne that’s what we specialise

trip to the nearby Imperial War Museum

in – something cultural and something off

Duxford. My only worry is how accessible

the beaten track. We organise trips abroad

the museum is for people with limited

based on charter flights and cruises as well as

mobility. I struggle to walk far and would

coach trips.

hate to slow my group down. Has anyone been who can offer their thoughts?

Petersburg, staying for two nights and travelling

Val Baxter, Kent

via Helsinki – the big advantage is that no

IWM Duxford

Experience Central Asia tour, visiting

A GTW’s editor Helen Milbank says:

Yes, I have many times! Britain’s best-

Uzbekistan and travelling along the Silk Road

preserved Second World War fighter station,

holidays if you, or someone in your group, has

trade route, either by private train or coach.

this Cambridgeshire site began life as an airfield

limited mobility. Try the following websites:

Alternatively, explore The Three Kingdoms tour,

in the First World War and is now home to

■ Tourism for All is a charity that provides

visiting the culturally rich kingdoms of Tibet,

collections of aircraft, tanks and military

information on accessible holiday venues in the

Nepal and Bhutan.

vehicles. The site’s around a mile long, but

UK and abroad – see www.tourismforall.org.uk

a free on-site mobility assistance vehicle is

■ Holidays for All is an umbrella website for

(and by that I mean six people or more) is

available, and wheelchairs and mobility

specialist tour companies and disability

Venice. This is a popular destination for groups

scooters can be reserved in advance. Find out

charities – see www.holidaysforall.org

of all sizes, and full-board accommodation on

more at www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-duxford

■ Disabled Holidays is the UK’s largest

Russian visa is required. We also offer an

A suggestion for a shorter trip for a group

board the MS Michelangelo is the perfect base for exploring this magical city.

Duxford aside, there is heaps of information available online to help you plan days out and

JONATHAN SMITH

Culture lovers will enjoy our trip to St

should be worn only on beaches or at

accessible holiday specialist – see www.disabledholidays.com

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Your Q&As The team at Ski Total are on hand to help you find the right resort for your group

PIXABAY

GROUP TRAVEL

Sun, snow and après-ski QMy friends and I are planning a ski

guaranteed snowfall and great nightlife, Val

4. Méribel, France

holiday in early 2019. Which European

D’Isère has always been a favourite for groups.

Located in the Three Valleys, the largest ski

resorts cater best for (very) mixed abilities?

Those visiting the resort can benefit from

area in the world, Méribel is a great option for

Jenny Heath, Derbyshire

Espace Killy’s exceptional range of pistes, an

groups with a mixed range of ski abilities,

A The team at chalet specialist Ski Total

area covering 300km of runs, and the new

offering 600km of piste from gentle green and

gondola, which opened in December 2016

blue runs to challenging black runs, as well as

(www.skitotal.com) say: Our top five

and has increased capacity by 40% per hour.

off-piste skiing. Méribel also offers a range of

ski resorts for groups combine great skiing,

Val D’Isère also offers an excellent range of

non-ski activities, such as a scenic flight over

entertaining snow activities beyond the

restaurants, as well as activities such as ice

the resort and snowshoeing.

slopes, fantastic food and lively après-ski.

climbing, ice driving and snowmobiling.

Here they are...

5. Tignes, France 3. Champoluc, Italy

Snowsure resort Tignes has some of the

1. St Anton, Austria

Part of the Monterosa ski area, the Italian

world’s best skiing thanks to the ‘Espace Killy’

With the biggest ski area in Austria, legendary

resort of Champoluc is one of Europe’s hidden

ski area, which links up to neighbouring

après-ski and a completely pedestrianised

gems and the perfect option for groups

Val D’Isère. The resort also has exceptionally

town centre, St Anton has long remained a

keen to experience a more relaxed ski holiday.

long seasons due to the Grande Motte Glacier,

firm favourite for group ski holidays. The resort

The resort offers great skiing with its

meaning groups can ski long into April. Visitors

also offers activities for non-skiers, such as

neighbouring resorts Gressoney and Alagna,

can find a range of activities throughout

tobogganing.

all on one lift pass, and the pistes are often

Tignes’ three villages – Le-Lac, Lavachet and

relatively uncrowded. Champoluc also has

Val Claret – whether it’s lively après-ski, husky

2. Val D’Isère, France

fabulous mountain restaurants and informal,

sledding, paragliding or just catching a film at

Home to some of the best skiing in Europe,

relaxed après-ski bars.

the local cinema. WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

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Your Q&As

Proudly sponsored by the Royal Horticultural Society

RHS

MEET OUR EXPERT Melissa Hackney is Groups

Sales & Marketing Manager at the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

From June 22-24, there is a real treat in store with the RHS Garden Harlow Carr Flower Show. Access to the show is free with garden entry. Set against a summer backdrop in the

QWe’re based in Yorkshire – could

garden of beautiful roses, lilies, wisteria and

Q What’s new at RHS Garden Hyde Hall in Essex this year?

Roger Carlisle, Sussex

A Melissa says: Due to celebrate its 25th

jasmine, along with thousands of dolly-mixture

year as an RHS Garden, May will see the

you tell me more about what we can expect

candelabra primulas along the streamside

opening of a new private venue area and a new

to see at RHS Garden Harlow Carr over

gardens, the Flower Show is a three-day

restaurant, called Gardeners’ Rest, looking out

the next few months?

floral extravaganza.

over the iconic Dry Garden. In addition, there’ll

Sophie Hill, North Yorkshire

The perfect day out for groups, it’s a

be a new venue available for private hire.

A Melissa says: As with all our gardens,

garden-lover’s paradise, with quality plants and

Offering views over the Dry Garden and Essex

sundries from almost 50 specialist nurseries

countryside, this new venue will accommodate

Harlow Carr has a wonderful year-round

and garden trade companies, from alpines and

up to 160 people lecture theatre style, or up

calendar of events. Over the coming months

agapanthus to clematis and carnivorous plants.

to 140 banquet style, laid out to groups’ exact

highlights will include the chance to see the

Along with the chance to get advice from

requirements. Two outdoor areas, the Dry

iconic blue meconopsis – or blue poppy

well-known garden writers and broadcasters,

Garden Courtyard and Western Deck, are also

(pictured above). Flowering in June, this

as well as members of the RHS advisory team,

available for those hiring the venue.

vibrant flower is one of RHS Harlow Carr’s

there is a full programme of talks and

signature plants. With large sky-blue flowers,

demonstrations including flower arranging with

Enjoy the beautiful hilltop garden, herbaceous

and often around 1m high, it makes a fabulous

Jonathan Moseley from the BBC’s The Big

borders, a rose garden, a Mediterranean-

display of colour in the garden and can be seen

Allotment Challenge, and talks from a selection

inspired Dry Garden, and the Global Growth

snaking along either side of the streamside.

of the best nurseries.

Vegetable Garden, showcasing fruit and

Hyde Hall features a range of garden types.

vegetables from around the world. This more

QWhat’s happening during National

formal area is surrounded by an estate with The four RHS gardens will be running

woodland, meadows and pasture.

Gardening Week, which starts this month?

activities and events, which will inspire and

Liz Martin, Denbighshire

help gardeners, including creative ideas,

A Melissa says: National Gardening Week

tips and suggestions for plants to grow

Experience the ultimate gardening day

both indoors and outdoors. So it’s a great

out with the RHS at its four wonderful

is running from April 30 to May 6, 2018.

time to visit one of the gardens as a group

gardens – RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey;

It was launched seven years ago by the RHS

for some extra inspiration and ideas. Email

RHS Garden Harlow Carr in North

and aims to become the country’s biggest

groups@rhs.org.uk to arrange your visit.

Yorkshire; RHS Garden Hyde Hall in Essex

celebration of gardening. In 2018, the RHS is focusing on making

There are also initiatives around the country,

and RHS Garden Rosemoor in North

ranging from garden parties to open gardens

Devon. Special group prices are available.

National Gardening Week all about sharing

– sign up at www.nationalgardeningweek.co.uk

See rhs.org.uk/groups

your passion for plants.

for more details.

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

Belle of the ball I was really touched by the story I read on your website about the gorgeous baby rhino Baby Belle (pictured right). I hope she’s better soon – I’ve now booked a trip to go meet her at Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens. Fiona Wilson, Oxfordshire A WORD FROM THE ED: We love her too! As you say, Belle’s the newest addition to the rhino family at Cotswold Wildlife Park in Burford, but her arrival hasn’t been without its traumas. A medical issue soon after birth led to her becoming the first hand-reared rhino in the park’s history – and hand-rearing the second largest land mammal wasn’t a decision to make lightly! Thankfully we can report she’s now doing well – find out more about her and the park at www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk

Your piece on London guided tours in

A West Yorkshire gem

the February issue prompted me to

Your ‘24 hours in...’ feature

book a visit to The Charterhouse in

on Leeds in the March issue

Charterhouse Square in East London.

took me back to my uni days.

What a fascinating place! A former

It’s a fantastic city to spend

Carthusian monastery, we took a tour

time in, both as a student

led by one of the resident Brothers,

and a day-tripper. The free-

who explained the history of the place

to-enter Royal Armouries

and showed us how the Brothers

Museum is well worth a visit

have lived at the site through the

and, if you can stretch to it,

centuries. I’d definitely recommend it.

stay at Leeds Malmaison

Chris Higgins, Shropshire

on Swinegate. Based in

The inside story

the city’s former Tramways A WORD FROM THE ED: We agree it’s a fantastic place for groups, Chris. Since 1348 Charterhouse

Office, it’s a great base,

has served as a monastery, private mansion, boys’ school and an almshouse, which it remains

with stylish rooms and

to this day. Discover more about its behind the scenes tours, including its secret garden tour,

amazing cocktails.

at www.thecharterhouse.org

Millie Stockton, Derbyshire

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Your shout

Coming next month! We put products from the Forever Living aloe vera range to the test – visit foreverliving.com to see how they can benefit you on your travels

Try this...

...and buy this...

Fancy a bit of R&R? Five-star health and

We love this quirky Howl Bag from Vel-Oh,

well-being retreat Healthouse las Dunas in

which can be used as either a backpack or

Marbella is now offering the ultimate golf

a shoulder bag. Handmade in Ireland, and

lover’s trip. Its Golf & Spa by the Sea package

originally launched with cyclists in mind,

offers luxury accommodation for three or

all Vel-Oh bags are fully waterproof and

more nights, the chance to tee off on one of

lightweight. Big enough for all your day trip

its world-class golf courses, and access to top

essentials, the waxed canvas Howl has a

quality fitness and spa facilities. Find out more

zipped security pocket for your valuables.

about this ultimate break on the Costa del Sol

Available in black, grey or mustard, it’s

at www.healthouse-naturhouse.com

priced at £250 from www.vel-oh.com

Dare to visit!

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

I just wanted to spread the word to your readers about a fantastic new exhibition we have at The True Crime Museum in Hastings. The Era of the Ripper invites day-trippers to step back in time to Victoria England as they stroll along gas-lit cobbled streets, where a

Email: helen.milbank@ grouptravelworld.com

very sinister person’s lurking... Free talks, new artefacts and chilling facts combine to make this a great day out, as you

Advertising query? Call Julie Cousins on 01733 293242

learn about the notorious serial killer. The Era of the Ripper runs from July 21 to August 31.

Subscription query? Emma Parkes is here to help. Call her on 01733 293487

Find out more at www.truecrimemuseum.co.uk Rebecca Chester, East Sussex

Ear, ear... Let’s hear it for this fantastic snow dog, as built by Ellie Calpin, daughter of Group Travel World magazine writer Darren, during last month’s cold snap. And talking of dogs, have you spotted our mascot, Harvey, yet? See page

Need attraction & show tickets? Call Harley on 01733 293249 Visit www.grouptravelworld.com follow Facebook.com/ grouptravelworld and see us on Twitter @GTWMagazine GTW

112 for details. WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

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Puzzle time

Test your grey matter – answers on page 113

Try our quizzes and brain teasers every month

PICTURE QUIZ

Can you guess where this photo was taken?

W RD

SEARCH Find the words below in the grid – all are wellknown theme parks...

DREAMLAND EUROPA GULLIVER’S EFTELING WICKSTEED DRAYTON LEGOLAND THORPE PARK

WD I A C X K R S G T H E U E I D R D N

R E E A U I R G A A

E F P P L P O R Y L

A M T E A N E P L I S H P A O E T O OG

L L Y R V A C G N E

A I A O E P T L X L

N N Y H R I L L U G

D G K T S E P A R K

Where’s Harvey? Find where the lovely Harvey’s hidden in this issue and you could win a prize. To enter, visit www.grouptravelworld.com/competition before May 1, 2018.

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Puzzles

Crossword ACROSS 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 16 18 20 21 22

Set free (8) Horse’s gait (4) Difficult question (7) Among (4) Flowing water (6) Composer of “The Messiah� (6) Hedge plant (6) Have no obligation to (6) Increases (4) Nightclub (7) Midge (4) Compulsive slimmer (8)

4 5 6 13 15 17 19

Duce (8) Lower (6) One skilled in algebra, for example (13) Directory of contact numbers (9,4) Achieve (6) Central Chinese desert (4) Physicist (8) Calls on (6) Weirder (6) Ridge of sand (4)

DOWN 1 2 3

FILM & TV QUIZ

Q Can you name this comedian – and the country he’s from?

3

Q Deborah the tank was built

Q Can you name this famous West End musical?

at the Norfolk Tank Museum by which TV presenter and motorbike racer?

4

VISIT ENGLAND

2

MATT CROCKETT

1

Q Can you name this Kent-

based castle?

Picture quiz answer: Budapest Film & TV quiz: 1. German comedian Henning When 2. Wicked 3. Guy Martin 4. Leeds Castle in Kent Where’s Harvey? In the March issue, Harvey was on page 87, taking a roller-coaster ride! (Down) 1 Dictator, 2 Reduce, 3 Mathematician, 4 Telephone book, 5 Attain, 6 Gobi, 13 Einstein, 15 Visits, 17 Eerier, 19 Dune.

Crossword solution: (Across) 7 Liberate, 8 Trot, 9 Toughie, 10 Amid, 11 Stream, 12 Handel, 14 Privet, 16 Needn’t, 18 Adds, 20 Cabaret, 21 Gnat, 22 Anorexic.

Answers

WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

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And finally...

Louisa’s first love is Italy’s Amalfi coast

Sun, sea & snow LOUISA LYTTON

EastEnders and The Bill actress Louisa Lytton on her love for the Amalfi coast, appearing in The Jump and swimming with sharks

As told to Naomi MacKay

people get on buses,” says actress Louisa

So much for trips abroad, but does Louisa’s travel bug kick in at home too?

is from the Amalfi coast. I have a dream that I’ll drive around the region in an open

“Yes! We booked an AirBnB near

top, old-fashioned car. It’s so beautiful

runaway Ruby Allen in EastEnders and PC

Rutland Water; it was so nice to walk

there – whenever I go anywhere else in

Beth Green in The Bill, the 29-year-old

round and stop in a country pub,

Europe I always ask myself if it’s as beautiful

actress has firmly caught the travel bug.

rather than be in central London.”

as Amalfi and it never is. I love it there.”

Lytton. Best known for playing teenage

Recently, with a two-week break between

Last year, when Louisa starred as Rizzo

jobs, she and her best friend headed off

in Grease the Musical she had another

to Bali. Then there was her appearance in

opportunity to explore closer to home.

TV’s The Jump. “I’d never skied before – I

“The tour took in places like Llandudno

can’t even ice skate!” says Louisa, so it was

and York, and the cast all enjoyed a

a baptism of fire to head to Austria and try

day trip to Bournemouth beach. It was

out the same sort of sports we’ve all been

so hot it was like being in Spain.”

Louisa is starring in The Gulf at London’s

With so much time spent travelling or

Tristan Bates Theatre from April 17

recently been to Sri Lanka: “We went to

on tour, surely Louisa must be an expert at

to May 5. The play, which also stars

the National Park, hired a moped and drove

living out of a suitcase? “I never really get

Anna Acton (best known for her role

along the coast, stopping for food at a local

it right,” she says. “I always turn up with

as Rochelle Barrattt in The Bill) takes

beach hut. The food was out of this world.”

way too much stuff. When I was younger

place on a fishing boat in Alabama and

I used to have a new holiday wardrobe

explores the challenges any relationship

when Louisa was working in South Africa on

for every trip, but as I’ve got older I’ve

has to endure. “It’s a bit comical but

a TV programme. “I swam with sharks and

realised you can wear the same things.”

also hard hitting,” says Louisa. See

watching in the Winter Olympics. She’s also

Another memorable experience happened

was absolutely petrified. I was in a cage and these great white sharks came right up.”

So where’s next on this travel bug actress’ bucket list? “I’m Italian and my mum’s family

www.tristanbatestheatre.co.uk

GTW

MAIN PHOTO: PIXABAY

I

“ ’VE BEEN TOLD I get on planes like other

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TELLING THE STORY OF RUGBY FROM AROUND THE WORLD, FOLLOWING THE GAME’S HISTORY FROM ITS ORIGINS TO THE PRESENT DAY EXPLORE A GLITTERING ARRAY OF TROPHIES DISCOVER “WHAT KIND OF RUGBY PLAYER ARE YOU?” IN THE PLAY RUGBY ZONE RE-LIVE SOME OF RUGBY’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS SEE THE OLDEST INTERNATIONAL RUGBY JERSEY “CHOOSE YOUR OWN WORLD XV” INTERACTIVE

The World Rugby Museum is the definitive home for everything and anything about rugby Groups Welcome Museum Visits, Stadium Tours, Special Interest Tours 020 8892 8877 . museum@rfu.com . worldrugbymuseum.com

Rugby Football Union. The RFU Rose and the words ‘England Rugby’ are official registered trade marks of the Rugby Football Union.

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