C
PO ST AG E
12
January 2019 £3.99
*J US TP AY
SE EP AG E
TR F GIFTHRIS O AV RE TO TM UR EL E G YOUAS MU TW ! G*
The best days out and holidays for families and groups
5
friends + you = the best family & group rates!
CHEAP TICKETS ALERT: Don’t book yours until you’ve scanned this!
DISCOVER HEVER CASTLE’S TUDOR HISTORY
EXPLORE AUSTRIA, LAKE CONSTANCE AND COPENHAGEN PLUS
001 GTW Jan 19 Cover.indd 1
16-PAGE LONDON GUIDE: WHAT’S NEW FOR 2019
Yeehaw!
Meet the speedy stars of Chester Zoo 10/12/2018 10:10
WHAT WILL YOU EXPERIENCE ON YOUR NEXT GROUP ADVENTURE? European & Worldwide Escorted Tours for Groups 2018/2019 Riviera Travel offers a wide selection of European and worldwide escorted tours, plus luxury four and five-star river cruises, exciting journeys by rail and once in a lifetime tall ship adventures – something to suit everyone’s taste and budget, whether travelling as a group or as an individual.
From only
£299pp *
E ARN 5%
Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer & Alaska Cruise
C O M M IS S I ON F OR YO UR G ROU P
To request a brochure, please call: 01283 742322 Visit: www.rivieragroups.co.uk For group enquiries: groups@rivieratravel.co.uk Please mention Group Travel World December 2018 when you book. Riviera Travel, New Manor, 328 Wetmore Road, Burton on Trent, Staffs, DE14 1SP. ABTA V4744 and ATOL 3430 protected. Prices are based on two people sharing a twin room. Additional entrance costs may apply. *Some elements are not commissionable, including upgrades, insurance premiums and some supplements plus bookings made through a third party – ask for full details. †Supplements applicable for certain regional stations. A commission invoice will be requested from the group leader in the month following that of the departure for all that travel.
FP Template.indd 2
ABTA No. V4744
12/12/2018 17:27
Welcome
A word from the editor
Can it really be Christmas already? It seems just minutes since we were lamenting the Beast from the East, then sweltering through the heatwave. But we’ve had a ball here at Group Travel World in 2018 – and here are just a few of our highlights from the year. We’d like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy new year. See you on the other side!
■ See grouptraveloffers.com for group rate attraction tickets Group Travel World Magazine, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX Switchboard: 01733 293487 Web: www.grouptravelworld.com – and www.grouptraveloffers.com for attraction tickets ISSN: 2048-3392 EDITORIAL
Editor: Helen Milbank
E. helen.milbank@grouptravelworld.com hter Georg Helen’s daug kie at ek serves up br o Twycross Zo
Designer: David Hiles E: david.hiles@d15design.com
ie
Thanks to: Darren Calpin, Kristy Elsmere, Adam Jacot de Boinod, Sue Parslow, Mike Pickup, John Sansom, Chris Wales and Angela Youngman ADVERTISING
Paige, s o Maxim n Jayden and e fr Resort enjoy LEGOLA iend Windso ND r
Advertising Manager: Julie Cousins T: 01733 293242 E: julie.cousins@grouptravelworld.com Client Manager: Paige Fraser T: 01733 293245 E: paige.fraser@grouptravelworld.com Sales Executive: Karen Newton T: 01733 293489 E: karen.newton@grouptravelworld.com Sales Executive: Abi Paige T: 01733 293481 E: abi.paige@grouptravelworld.com SUBSCRIPTIONS/MARKETING
Julie and Ka ren join the DFDS team for a mini cr uise to Amst erdam
Marketing Subscriptions Manager: Emma Parkes T: 01733 293487 E: emma.parkes@grouptravelworld.com Marketing Executive: Emily Dougall T: 01733 293483 E: emily.dougall@grouptravelworld.com GROUP TRAVEL OFFERS
Trade account managers: 01733 293249 MANAGEMENT
General Operations Manager: Harley Denham T: 01733 293249 E: harley.denham@grouptravelworld.com
MAIN COVER PHOTO: CHESTER ZOO
Emma gets set to run the Kew t 10k, with Mum for suppor
It’s runaway rhino calf Hazina from Chester Zoo! Find out more about her at chesterzoo.org
Publisher: Jonathan Taylor E: jonathan@grouptravelworld.com © 2018/19 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
Emma and Harley host a fam trip to Eltham Palace & Gardens
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
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
003 GTW Jan 19 Welcome hm.indd 3
3
10/12/2018 10:13
VISITLONDON.COM
42 Dine out in style at Cheshire’s Bear’s Paw country hotel
IAN TURNER
52 Explore the shores of Lake Constance
57 Get up close to Longleat’s gorgeous cheetah cubs
4 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
004-005 GTW Jan 19 Contents.indd 4
10/12/2018 10:17
Contents Regulars 6 Let’s go...
Meet Chester Zoo’s jaguar Goshi
8 15 minutes with... Take That’s Gary Barlow
10 News
We catch up on the world of travel
56 UKinbound
Why 2019 is set to be an exciting year
60 Industry insider
News from the Coach Tourism Association
62 Theatre news & reviews The latest from theatreland
90 Expert Q&As
Your questions answered
VISITLONDON.COM
94 Readers’ letters
You share your news and photos
96 Puzzle pages
99 Our special 16-page London guide
Try our quizzes and puzzles every month
98 And finally... Jet off to Amsterdam
Features 14 The hills are alive...
With the sound of silence in Salzburgerland
18 Behind the curtain
The best guided tours across the UK
24 Hever’s Tudor gems
See Henry VIII’s family portraits at this Kent gem
28 Caught on camera
A new series of films for art lovers JAY BROOKS
64 Meet the Take That stars behind hit musical The Band
30 Ten of the best
82 Discover Copenhagen’s magical Tivoli Gardens
Days out for families and groups
42 Dive straight in Go wild in Cheshire
48 Strawberry Fields Forever
New Beatles attractions and more in the NW
52 Still waters run deep
Explore the shores of Lake Constance
70 Oxford’s finest
Why there’s never been a better time to visit
72 A leap of faith
Push your limits to the extreme this year
76 Travel World Association
Your association. Your way! Join today...
78 What lies beneath? TOURISMUS SALZBURG/BREITEGGER GÜNTER
14 Head to Austria’s Salzburgerland province
Explore all Wales has to offer in 2019
82 The magic of Tivoli
Visit this Danish gem in the heart of Copenhagen
84 Pura vida...
Sample a sensual feast in Costa Rica
99 16-page London special!
As we usher in the new year, discover what our glorious capital has to offer in 2019 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
004-005 GTW Jan 19 Contents.indd 5
5
10/12/2018 10:17
6 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
006-007 GTW Jan 19 Lets Go.indd 6
10/12/2018 10:19
Let’s go...
CHESTER ZOO
Paws for thought Black cats don’t come any more striking than this fantastic feline. Meet Goshi, who isn’t a black panther, as you might imagine, but in fact a jaguar. She’s ditched the usual jaguar print for a rather fetching black hue... See her for yourself at Chester Zoo’s wonderful Spirit of the Jaguar habitat, where Goshi lives with her (typically golden coloured) friend Napo. Find out more about them both at chesterzoo.org
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
006-007 GTW Jan 19 Lets Go.indd 7
7
10/12/2018 10:19
15 minutes with...
Gary Barlow How to top being one-fifth of one of the greatest boy bands of all time? By joining your fellow band mates to create a smash hit stage musical that’s just begun its West End run... non-specified pop group and how, 25 years
self? “I’d say grab it and enjoy this moment
on, the girls reunite to try to meet their heroes.
right now. It sounds so corny but this young
S CO-PRODUCER OF touring musical
Why is the format so successful? “I think that
cast are at such an amazing time in their
The Band, working with a team that
friendship really resonates with people,” says
lives, but they may have some tough years
includes fellow band mates Robbie, Howard
Gary. “Even the idea of the friendship – if you
ahead. It’s so important to enjoy the here and
and Mark, Gary is rightly proud of the show’s
sat us down then we’d all say that friendship
now. We give ourselves a pep talk now and
success. “I don’t think we could have imagined
is what is at the heart of Take That. It has kept
again, especially before tours. We really do
the pride we would feel every time The Band
our work strong; we’ve been a gang.
appreciate all that we have.”
As told to: Vicky Edwards
A
goes into a new city, or the amazing response it gets,” he says. “Our aim is to give people the
“The Band is about the relationships really, not the music. You don’t need to be an avid fan, but Tim [Firth, the show’s writer]
best two hours of their life.”
has so cleverly woven our music
Despite the parallels, the show is not about Take That; instead it uses the band’s music as a soundtrack to an original story about a group of 16-year-old friends, a
Turn to page 64 for more on The Band and the Take That stars behind its success
I see it I leave happy.” It’s a show about growing
for me,” says Gary. “Adam Ant, The Human League, Depeche Mode – I just loved trying out all that synthesised stuff on the piano.” n The
Band is currently playing its West End
season at Theatre Royal Haymarket until
up, too. What advice would
January 12, 2019. For full tour dates visit
you give to your younger
thebandmusical.com GTW
JAY BROOKS
Gary is co-producer of new touring musical The Band alongside Howard, Mark and Robbie
into a parallel universe. Whenever
Who were your bedroom wall pin-ups when you were 16? “It was all about the music
8 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
008 GTW Jan 19 15 Mins With.indd 8
11/12/2018 11:13
HOTEL-BAR-RESTAURANT
Oaklands Hall Hotel Barton Street, Laceby
01472 872248 3 star hotel based on the outskirts of Grimsby and the Lincolnshire Wolds. Great base for exploring the fabulous county of Lincolnshire. Great rates to be had. For information about the hotel oaklandshallhotel.co.uk. Call for bookings on 01472 872248.
Thrilling group white water rafting experiences in Snowdonia National Park NWWC, Frongoch, Bala, LL23 7NU T: 01678 521083 E: info@nationalwhitewatercentre.co.uk W: www.nationalwhitewatercentre.co.uk
HP Template.indd 9
North devon
a o t e m o Welc t World Differen • Film of the history of the village • Charles Kingsley and Fisherman’s Cottage museums • Craft workshops and other shops • Meet the famous Clovelly donkeys • Working harbour and Lifeboat Station • Two old inns serving local food, ales and cider • Clovelly Court Gardens • Boat trips and glorious coastal walks • Guided tours by arrangement • Fun Trail for your children
Big discounts for groups! For further information including special events see: clovelly.co.uk or call 01237 431781
12/12/2018 21:32
News All about Rembrandt
See the light
Rembrandt’s entire collection will be on display for the first time ever in 2019 at
Brave a private ghost tour this winter at
manager at the Palace, says: “This is a
All the Rembrandts of the Rijksmuseum
Hampton Court Palace, one of six palaces
fantastic opportunity to see the palace
in Amsterdam. Twenty-two paintings,
cared for by charity Historic Royal Palaces.
by night. We love seeing the faces of
60 drawings and 300 prints combine to offer
The evening tours are ideal if a spine-
our guests when they encounter the
a complete picture of the Netherlands’ most
tingling experience is on your 2019 wishlist.
unexpected – each tour is an entirely
important artist. The exhibition runs from
unique experience!”
February 15 to June 10, see rijksmuseum.
Up to 30 people can explore the 500-year-old palace by night, including
Call the Palace events team on 020
Henry VIII’s apartments and the infamous
3166 6507 to find out more, or email
Haunted Gallery. Jo Jennings, events
hamptoncourtpalaceevents@hrp.co.uk
nl/en/the-year-of-rembrandt Closer to home, an exhibition ‘Rembrandt in Print’ will be staged at the Lady Lever Gallery in Liverpool, from June 1 to September 15, 2019, see liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/ ladylever/events
On the double Scotland’s oldest working distillery – and the only one still to mash by hand – has been shortlisted in the Best Visitor Experience category in the Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions Awards. HISTORIC ROYAL PALACES
The Glenturret Distillery in Crief, which is home to The Famous Grouse Experience, welcomes groups keen to take a tour and enjoy a tasting. See theglenturret.com and experience.thefamousgrouse.com
Great Scot! Thirlestane Castle in Lauder is gearing up for the
Explore this Scottish Borders gem, and even learn to play the bagpipes...
2019 season with a range of new group tours. Gone are the standard tours of a few rooms of this historic building – instead the team are all set to create a tailor-made unique experience, led by local, experienced guides. Walk in the footsteps of the Duke of Lauderdale, the uncrowned King of Scotland, explore the castle’s links with Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie, and discover more about the treasures collected by the Maitland family from all over the world. Tours can be led by Edward Maitland-Carew, who grew up in the castle and still lives there today, and the castle has various spaces where groups can dine together, as well as a range of catering options to suit all tastes and budgets. Plus you can make your visit even more memorable as you try your hand at some traditional Highland Games sports in front of the castle, watch a jousting display from the front lawn or fly various birds of prey in the gardens. Or maybe your group would prefer to be ‘piped’ into dinner or take to the drawing room for a whisky tasting. Groups can even learn the bagpipes. Find out more at thirlestanecastle.co.uk or call 01578 722430. 10 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
010-012 GTW Jan 19 News.indd 10
10/12/2018 10:32
PENCARROW Pencarrow, the much-loved home of the Molesworth-St Aubyn family for nearly 500 years, is set in 50 acres if Grade II* woodland and garden where dogs and children are most welcome. The Georgian house boasts an impressive library with secret door, elegant but ‘lived in’ reception rooms, period bedrooms and collections of family prams, dolls, oriental porcelain, fascinating antique furniture and portraits. In the gardens there are superb conifers that tower over
HP Template.indd 11
azaleas, magnolias and camellias, with many varieties of rhododendron adding to the blaze of spring colour; blue hydrangeas line the mile long carriage drive throughout the summer. Discover the ancient Celtic cross, Iron Age hill fort, Victorian lake and icehouse, grotto, restful Italian gardens with fountain and enormous rock garden. Visit the Peacock café and enjoy the delights of a homemade cream tea or a light lunch and then browse in the Pencarrow shop for that perfect gift.
House, Café, Shop open from 31st March 2019 to 3rd October 2019 Open Sundays to Thursdays (closed Fridays & Saturdays) Gardens open from 1st October every day until 31st October Adults Registered Disabled Under 16’s FREE
£11.50 £9.75
House & Gardens House & Gardens
Adults Registered Disabled Under 16’s FREE
£6.50 £4.75
Gardens only Gardens only
12/12/2018 21:33
News Name that tune... Greatdays Travel Group has launched a new seven-day tour that brings together the stories, sights, sounds and songs of Britain’s musical heritage. The ‘British Music Cities Tour’ takes in London, Liverpool and Manchester, offering the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of many of the world’s music greats, including The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Queen, Pink Floyd, David Bowie, Bob Marley, The Smiths, Oasis and Simply Red. ■ In London the tour includes a visit to the flat of
Jimi Hendrix, and next door, the house that once belonged to classical composer Frederick Handel. ■ In Liverpool the tour includes visits to The
Beatles Story on Albert Dock, the British
Take in the Beatles’ haunts on Greatdays’ new tour
Music Experience, featuring more than 600 artefacts dating back to 1945 and visits to the Cavern Club and the legendary
’90s, and a three-hour tour reveals the stories
Sunday from April to October 2019 and
Jacaranda, a music club frequented by The
and locations behind The Hollies, Herman’s
can be booked by groups or independent
Beatles before they hit the big time.
Hermits, The Smiths, Oasis, Morrissey, New
travellers. Travel between cities is by first class
■ Manchester’s unique sound shaped the
Order, Simply Red, 10cc and the Stone
rail, and prices start at £1,099 per person.
world’s music scene in the ’70s, ’80s and
Roses. The tour departs from London every
Find out more at britishmusiccities.com
OUR CHRISTMAS GIFT FOR YOU!
FREE Travel mug * Grab this Group Travel World branded travel mug, add a splash of tea or coffee and hey presto... your caffeine fix, on the go, sorted! To order your free mug, go to grouptravelworld.com/gtwshop
Happy 200th! Historic Royal Palaces is set to mark the 200th anniversary of Queen Victoria’s birth with a major new exhibition at Kensington Palace. On May 24 1819, Princess Victoria was born at the Palace – a
*Just pay £3.99 postage and packing
baby who, as Queen, would one day rule over the largest empire the world had ever known. To mark her bicentenary a new exhibition will sit alongside a re-presentation of the rooms the young Victoria called home,
THIS MONTH WE LOVE…
with dresses and accessories on show spanning the last four decades of
...Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village in Surrey, which has just won the
her life. From a simple cotton petticoat to the richly embellished black
2018 Tourist Destination of the Year Award in the Surrey Business
mourning dresses she’s associated with, you’ll also be able to see diaries
Awards. Plan your visit at wattsgallery.org.uk
written by Victoria in Urdu under the tutelage of her Indian servant Abdul Karim. Find out more at hrp.org.uk/Victoria2019 12 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
010-012 GTW Jan 19 News.indd 12
10/12/2018 10:32
PRINT_2234 - Party at Sea.pdf
1
13/08/2018
13:42
Newcastle - Amsterdam
Party at Sea Give your party a unique twist with our Party at Sea package. Spend 2 nights onboard our overnight crossing from Newcastle-Amsterdam, with a range of fantastic perks to make your event one to remember. Once you arrive in Amsterdam you’ll have up to 5 hours to explore the vibrant city centre, with return coach transfers included. All of this is available from just £99pp. For groups of 10+. Includes:
C
M
Y
• • • •
Welcome drink upon arrival Buffet breakfast both mornings Buffet dinner & drink on both evenings Option to upgrade to Celebrate at Sea menu • Cabin upgrade for host*
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
dfds.co.uk/party Price is subject to availability & based on 4 sharing sea view cabin. T&Cs apply. *Subject to availability.
FP Template.indd 13
12/12/2018 17:40
TOURISMUS SALZBURG/BREITEGGER GÜNTER
The
hills are alive... ...with the wonderful sound of silence. Adam Jacot de Boinod reflects on the peace and tranquility of Austria’s Salzburgerland province
I
GREW UP TO the music and images of Julie
mountains that are part bald, part wooded.
Andrews and The Sound of Music, but hadn’t
They brood over pastures that have managed
ABOUT OUR WRITER ADAM JACOT DE BOINOD was a researcher for the first BBC television series QI, hosted by Stephen Fry. He wrote The Meaning of Tingo and Other Extraordinary Words from around the World, published by Penguin Books.
realised until I reached Salzburg that I was
to sustain a lush, vibrant green after the
going to be staying in the very countryside
heatwaves of a long summer. The water of the
where it was filmed. It’s in the province of
lake has every shade of blue imaginable from
lake was punctuated with benches on the
Salzburgerland, a mere 20 minutes’ drive
aquamarine to turquoise to teal.
shoreline as places for our own reflection.
from the airport, which itself is as swift and
As with the ever-changing nature of the
seamless as any I’ve passed through. The
light, so it is with the climate, as it alternates
AN ECLECTIC MIX
area has a number of beautiful lakes and is to
between September’s sun and breeze and
I stayed first at the lake’s eastern end at
Austrians what the Lake District is to us Brits:
autumnal clouds and rain causing the water to
Ebner’s Waldhof (www.ebners-waldhof.at).
a refuge, a delight and a natural source of
be flat and still one moment, shimmering and
What a fabulous eclectic mixture this hotel
immense pride.
rippling the next. Both serene and mesmeric,
is: part alpine chalet, part modern and part
the stunning reflections demanded and
authentically Austrian and suggestive of a
commanded my attention. The length of the
bygone era. This amalgamation of buildings has
Fuschl, my local town, exists for Fuschlsee, her stunning lake that’s set in a broad bowl of 14 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
014-016 GTW Jan 19 Austria.indd 14
10/12/2018 10:34
Austria
Salzburg is divided by the Salzach River
something for everyone with quirky corridors
prelude to Austria’s capital, which I reached in
lined with curiosities such as horse carts and
under three hours of passing through farmland
deer antlers, tableaux and taxidermy. Two days
and factories.
later I went on to the lake’s western and even
What a dramatic arrival it was as I reached
Salzburgerland is true Sound of Music country as the movie was filmed in this region
quieter end to stay at the luxurious Schloss
the Hotel Bristol (www.bristolvienna.com).
Get me there
Fuschl (www.schlossfuschlsalzburg.com).
I opened the shutters on the fourth floor to
■ Classic
look directly across at the Opera House and
047 1064; classic-collection.co.uk)
and white photographs of famous conductors
straight down to its appreciative evening
offers a six-night three-centre Austria
deep in musical ecstasy with their silence
audience, who watched it all live outside on a
holiday from £1,399 per person.
expressing their own words. They’re easily
giant screen that I was able to share from my
■ Price
the best set of hotel pictures I have seen.
balcony. My own box with a difference!
staying two nights at each of Ebner’s
Inside and adorning its corridors are black
The setting of this historic castle with its
With the layout of the city centre designed
Collection Holidays (0800
based on two adults, B&B,
Waldhof, Schloss Fuschl and Hotel
formerly royal connections is paramount.
with great efficiency, getting around was so
Bristol in Vienna, and includes private
Perched on a prime vantage point it looks
simple for me and the hotel’s position bang
transfers, train travel from Salzburg to
across the entire length of the lake.
in the middle made nearly all my sightseeing
Vienna and return flights to Gatwick.
walkable and spontaneous.
■ Adam
A HISTORIC HEARTLAND
That evening I attended a concert at the
had further support from
www.stanstedexpress.com and
To catch my direct train to Vienna I came back
Konzerthaus and was acutely aware that I was
www.holidayextras.co.uk (who offer
to the centre of Salzburg, with her expansive
among the cognoscenti in Vienna, the historic
airport lounges at all major UK airports
suite of squares, her baroque church façades
heartland of classical music. I was thrilled to
and many international destinations).
and an impressive statue of Mozart: a fitting
witness the tradition alive and well with WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
014-016 GTW Jan 19 Austria.indd 15
15
10/12/2018 10:34
Austria The luxurious Schloss Fuschl
those seeking rest and repose. Here is the Leopold Museum and the best place to see Austria’s two most celebrated artists, Klimt and Schiele, who are effectively afforded their own permanent exhibitions with a floor each. Klimt’s landscapes, often in a square format, amount to a quarter of his painterly Ebner’s Waldhof Hotel is part alpine chalet, part modern
oeuvre; so determined was he to take himself away whenever he could from the Viennese art scene to reach Attersee, another of Salzburgerland’s lakes. Here, typically, he visited first thing a small
entire families sitting alongside old ladies
everything in it is very accessible. Just behind,
spruced up for the occasion, at the very
set in a quiet courtyard, I ate at the vegetarian
beech forest with the sun interspersed with
civilised time of 6pm on a Sunday evening.
Tian Bistro (www.tian-bistro.com).
conifers, before breakfast and then a bathe
This hallowed hall is beautified with art deco
Here, sitting among plants, wooden crates
in the lake and later some rowing to shake
windows set in pale blue and yellow beneath a
and an unusually non-stentorian Austrian
up his muscles. These paintings are devoid
gilded ceiling. In the foyer stands an impressive
clientele, I began with a ‘pick-me-up’ consisting
of people and depict a tranquil atmosphere.
statue of Beethoven in his signature brooding
of papaya, pineapple, celery, ginger and
They’re symbolic, especially in his water
and imperious mood.
Assam long pepper. I then tried a subtle
scenes, both of the artist’s craving for privacy
consommé with champignons and fresh
and space as well as of timelessness and
experienced the tail-coated conductor smiled
herbs before succumbing to the delicacy of
transience, with nature’s cycle enjoying a
at will, and with joyful informality, to his lead
Hokkaido pumpkin, spelt cream and polenta
constant, self-renewing energy.
violinist and his white bow-tied orchestra.
fries, indulgently followed by marinated
Unlike any other performance I’ve
DOE A DEER... The ‘Museums Quartier’ is very close by and
All engagingly different from Klimt’s iconic
strawberries, minted sugar and peanut cream.
masterpiece ‘The Kiss’, housed in the nearby
Scattered about the museums are purple
Belvedere. As iconic as ‘Doe a deer, a female
blocks acting as loungers that draw together
deer’ perhaps!
16 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
014-016 GTW Jan 19 Austria.indd 16
10/12/2018 10:34
YOU’VE GOT WONDERFUL CHILDHOOD MEMORIES SO WHY NOT COME BACK AND MAKE SOME NEW ONES...?
SO MANY REASONS TO RETURN ... Email: visits@coventrycathedral.org.uk Tel: +44 (0)24 7652 1234 1 Hill Top, Coventry CV1 5AB FP Template.indd 17
12/12/2018 21:27
Behind the curtain Our pick of the best guided tours across the UK... Words: Darren Calpin LONDON LANDMARKS
ROH offers not one but two guided tours:
ROH’s sublime architecture and intriguing
■ Lasting
heritage. You’ll also hear stories from some of
around one-and-a-half hours,
The Backstage Tour highlights the venue’s
the legendary opera singers who’ve performed
fascinating history and lets you take an
at the world-famous venue, and get the chance
Covent Garden
exciting nosey around both the backstage
to admire the Royal Retiring Room, which is
If you’re an opera, ballet and/or classical music
and front of house areas while the actors
still used by visiting royal patrons today.
lover then the idea of snooping around the
prepare for that evening’s performance.
Get me there: Groups of 10 or more
lesser-seen areas of the exquisite Royal Opera
If you’re really lucky, you may even get
should call 020 7304 4002 to make a
House (ROH) will probably make you go weak
to see the Royal Ballet in a classroom.
booking. It’s worth noting that tour guide
at the knees. Befitting its status as one of
■ The
visitors are entitled to a tasty 10% discount
the world’s most prestigious arts venues, the
shorter offering that focuses more on the
ROYAL OPERA HOUSE
Velvet, Gilt and Glamour Tour is a slightly
at the ROH restaurants and shop too.
18 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
018-022 GTW Jan 19 Guided tours.indd 18
10/12/2018 10:40
Days out
LUKE HAYES
See behind the scenes of the world-famous Royal Opera House
The Royal Opera House has recently had a £50 million revamp
LUKE HAYES
Tour the ‘Mother of all Parliaments’
Turn to page 99 for our 16-page London guide HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT Westminster It’s fair to say no tour gives visitors a
visceral in an instant. Along with both chambers (the Commons and the Lords), the one-and-a-half hour tour takes in
Get me there: Discount rates are available for groups of 10 or more. Bookings can be made online, via email (visitparliament@ parliament.uk) or by calling 020 7219 4114.
greater insight into the potent workings
the Norman Porch, the Queen’s Robing Room,
of British governance than this one around
the Royal Gallery, St Stephen’s Hall and the
the ‘Mother of all Parliaments’. From the
1,000-year-old Westminster Hall. Tours are
moment you (eventually) pass through
led by surprisingly informal Blue Badge Tourist
THE BEATLES’ CHILDHOOD HOMES
the airport-style security and enter the
Guides on Saturdays throughout the year, and
Liverpool
stately Palace of Westminster proper,
on most weekdays during the February, Easter,
Big fan of the Fab Four? If so then this
1,000 years of legislative history becomes
Whitsun, Summer and Christmas recesses.
escorted National Trust mini-bus tour of
HERITAGE TOURS
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
018-022 GTW Jan 19 Guided tours.indd 19
19
10/12/2018 10:40
Days out the suburban homes where John Lennon and Paul McCartney grew up is an absolute must, as it’s the only one which actually takes you inside the hallowed properties. Both Mendips (Lennon) and 20 Forthlin Road (McCartney) are preserved much as they were when the lads grew up in the 1940s, 50s and early 60s. Paul’s old, rather threadbare lounge is arguably the See inside the Beatles’ former homes on this National Trust mini-bus tour
highlight as it was here the boys composed early hits, such as Please Please Me and She Loves You, then played them to Paul’s dad, who famously took issue with the
WWI and WWII artefacts and experiences,
word “yeah” in the latter’s chorus.
all within the space of a few hours.
Get me there: Groups are limited to 15
One of the best things about Dover
people and typically fill up months ahead
Castle is that it offers sightseers the best
so make sure you book your Ticket to Ride
of both worlds, letting you explore much of
(sorry!) well in advance at nationaltrust.
the complex by yourself and offering you
org.uk/beatles-childhood-homes
the expert services of an English Heritage
DOVER CASTLE
Visit 20 Forthlin Road
tour guide when the time comes to delve deep into the Underground Hospital within
Kent
the Secret Wartime Tunnels. And, thanks to
It’s often said that with a historical narrative
some immersive audio-visual effects, you
running from Roman times right up until
can even watch and hear (and smell) WWII
the Cold War, the history of Dover Castle
doctors as they fight heroically to save the
is the history of England. This claim is fully
life of an injured Battle of Britain pilot.
justified when it’s considered you can
Get me there: Ever adept at accommodating
admire Roman and Saxon buildings, discover
groups, English Heritage offer a 15% discount
Medieval interiors (including the opulent Great
for parties of 11 or more visitors paying
Tower), and get up-close-and-personal with
together. Visit english-heritage.org.uk
The history of Dover Castle is the history of England
20 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
018-022 GTW Jan 19 Guided tours.indd 20
10/12/2018 10:40
THE ONLY WAY TO TOUR THE OFFICIAL TV SET Follow in the footsteps of Yorkshire’s best loved soap-stars on this guided walking tour of Emmerdale’s outdoor TV set. To find out more visit
emmerdalestudioexperience.co.uk FOR GROUP RATES CALL 01904 261262
Emmerdale™ & © ITV Studios Ltd 2018. Licensed by ITV Broadcasting Limited. All Rights Reserved.
FP Template.indd 21
12/12/2018 17:42
Days out Buy a one-way ticket back to your childhood...
FACTORY TOURS
LAND ROVER EXPERIENCE Liverpool If you enjoy tours that make you say “oooh” and “wow!” out loud then the Land Rover Manufacturing Tour is definitely one for you. Maybe it’s something they put in the welcome drink, but as soon as you step onto the manufacturing floor of Land Rover’s cavernous plant, and witness the huge industrial presses
Take the Land Rover Manufacturing Tour
stamping out rolls of steel into perfect 3D panels, you’re powerless to stop your jaw
surely is. Most tours last around three hours
and not-so-familiar items from the Hornby,
from dropping.
and accommodate a maximum of nine people.
Scalextric, Airfix and Corgi ranges, some of
Find out more by calling 0151 448 4023 or
which are incredibly rare.
You’ll be similarly wowed by the amazingly accurate army of robots. Watching them repeatedly weld, rivet, bond and measure
emailing liverpool@landroverexperience.com
As you’d hope, the spectacular model railway and Scalextric layouts are the
the panels with such surgical precision is a
HORNBY VISITORS CENTRE
mind-blowing experience.
Kent
of the legendary little cars around the track
Boasting more toys and models that you can
yourself if you get the urge (and you will)!
together; all the parts slotting in, and the paint
shake a tube of glue at, a tour around the
Naturally, there’s also an on-site shop on
going on, you’ll look back over your shoulder
Hornby Visitors Centre on the outskirts of
hand to service your inevitable re-discovered
and think: “how can that Rover Discovery
Margate is effectively a one-way ticket back
love of model toys.
Sport have come from that roll of steel?”
to your childhood. As well as detailing the
Get me there: Groups of eight or more
Get me there: Thankfully, the tours are led
enlightening tale of how Frank Hornby started
people need to pre-book their visit. Phone
by highly knowledgeable guides who manage
his empire by making home-made toys in
01843 233524 or email visitorcentre@
to make everything sound a lot simpler than it
sheet metal, you’ll see an array of familiar
hornby.com
And, when you see everything come
standout features - you can even race one
GTW
22 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
018-022 GTW Jan 19 Guided tours.indd 22
10/12/2018 10:40
KING RICHARD III VISITOR CENTRE Discover the incredible story of England’s lost king
An ideal destination for groups, Leicester’s award winning Visitor Centre offers: • Discounts for groups of 15+ • Range of fascinating talks • Great value refreshment packages available • Dedicated group bookings team to help you make the most of your visit
FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.kriii.com/groups or 0116 229 4132
kriiicentre
FP Template.indd 23
@kriiicentre
12/12/2018 19:17
Hever’s Tudor gems Visitors to Hever Castle in Kent can now view Henry VIII’s family portraits as the King himself might have seen them. Sue Parslow went along to the grand unveiling...
H
ISTORY BUFFS WILL relish the
expert on Tudor history, was the catalyst
can promenade the oak-panelled gallery and
opportunity to see the portraits
behind a project to return the Long Gallery at
take in a family history that has life stories
of Tudor kings and queens close-up in
picturesque Hever Castle in Kent into a room
as compelling as any modern soap opera.
the very same way the nobility of the
with its true and original function. Now, with an
time would have viewed them.
authentic paint finish, and lighting that offers
into this tumultuous period of history, it is well
a candlelit-style glow to each portrait, visitors
worth having the learned historian as your
Historian Dr David Starkey, a renowned
To enhance your visit and gain an insight
24 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
024-026 GTW Jan 19 Hever Castle.indd 24
10/12/2018 10:42
Days out Dr David Starkey and CEO Duncan Leslie with Henry VIII’s portrait as the new-style gallery is unveiled
The historian’s favourite painting within the collection is this portrait of Arthur, whose premature death put younger brother Henry on the throne
Plan your visit at hevercastle.co.uk personal guide, which the multimedia guide (with his commentary) facilitates. Hever Castle dates back to the 13th century and is well known for its Tudor links, not least the
Portraits of Henry VIII’s ancestors are hung in the style of the Tudor period, framed by curtains
in framing each of the portraits in traditional green curtains, ensuring that the presentation of the 18 rare oil paintings is as authentic as it can be. Hung in dynastic order, the story of the
the ceiling painted a softer ‘off-white’ to give the effect of lime wash, and full-length drapes have been reinstalled at the large stained-glass windows at each end of the 98ft (30m) room.
FAMILY PORTRAITS
fact that it was the childhood home of
Tudors is told starting from Henry VI and
Now hanging proudly among their ‘relatives’
Anne Boleyn, Henry’s VIII’s second wife. Its
ending with Henry VIII. A coloured border
are portraits of Henry IV, Henry V, Henry VI
displays include an important collection of
on the drapes (red, white or a mix of the
and Edward IV, which were until now only seen
Tudor furniture, paintings and tapestries.
two) indicates whether the individuals were
by guests at Hever Castle’s bed and breakfast
from the York, Lancaster or Tudor descent.
accommodation, while eating in the Tudor
A regular visitor to the Castle, Dr Starkey came up with suggestion of ‘re-thinking’ the
The Long Gallery, one of the earliest
Suite Dining Room.
use of the Long Gallery, gathering together an
of its kind, was created in 1506 by Anne
important collection of paintings dispersed
Boleyn’s father Thomas Boleyn. Thanks to
a portrait of Elizabeth Woodville, Henry VIII’s
throughout the Castle’s property, some
the renovation, it is now said to more closely
grandmother, who was an influential figure in
away from the gaze of the general public.
resemble its original appearance. Dr Starkey’s
bringing the Wars of the Roses to a close and
He drove the project, taking an active role
attention to detail and insistence on historical
thus signalling the start of the Tudor dynasty.
in the re-decoration, high-tech lighting, and
accuracy has seen the ornate plasterwork on
The painting, which depicts her in a widow’s
On public display for the first time ever is
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
024-026 GTW Jan 19 Hever Castle.indd 25
25
10/12/2018 10:43
Days out
The Long Gallery with its plaster ceiling
portrait of Arthur painted in his lifetime.”
HEVER’S HISTORY Hever Castle is thought to date back
SPECIAL PROJECT
more than 700 years. It was the
The idea for the project was borne out of
childhood home of Anne Boleyn,
Tudor specialist Dr Starkey’s many visits to
Henry VIII’s second wife. Hever later passed into the ownership of another of Henry’s wives, Anne of Cleves, and from 1557 onwards was owned by a
Elizabeth Woodville, Henry VIII’s I grandmother, after whom Elizabeth is said to have been named
number of families. It fell into decline until William Waldorf Astor bought the property in 1903. The wealthy American
the Castle and working with Philip Mould, the art expert star of the BBC’s TV show, ‘Fake or Fortune’. Dr Starkey, who has previously stated that: “Hever Castle has one of the best collection
veil, sits next to her husband Edward IV.
of Tudor portraits after the National Portrait
Hever’s CEO Duncan Leslie, says:
Gallery,” says: “I was able to access records of
had a passion for history and invested a
“The new approach offers a chance to
how royal portraits were displayed, and after
great deal into restoring the castle. He
concentrate on the Tudor history of the
talking with Philip, I decided to give visitors
commissioned the Tudor Village (now the
Castle and the story of the sequence of
a flavour of what the Long Gallery would
B&B) and acres of beautiful gardens.
tumultuous events that changed the course
have looked like at the time of Henry VIII.”
In 1983 the property was sold to
of Britain’s history, monarchy and religion.”
Also on show in the Long Gallery is a 17th
the Guthrie family, who continue to
In picking out his highlights from the portrait
century doge’s hat. A doge was the elected
invest in Hever, including expanding
display, Dr Starkey says: “One of my favourites
Lord of the Italian city-state of Venice. It forms
its collection of artworks.
is that of Prince Arthur, Henry VIII’s older
part of a display of religious vestments, which
brother and heir to the throne, who died in
include a 16th century ceremonial gauntlet
1502. It is positively jewel-like and the only
and a 15th century bishop’s mitre.
GTW
26 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
024-026 GTW Jan 19 Hever Castle.indd 26
10/12/2018 10:43
FP Template.indd 27
12/12/2018 19:18
The arts
Caught on camera
A self portrait with fellow artist Evariste de Valernes
A series of films offer art lovers the opportunity to gain a real insight into the world of their favourite artist. Sue Parslow went along to the premier of Degas: Passion for Perfection
Stars of the screen Since launching in 2011, Exhibition on Screen (EOS) has made 19 art films. First screened in major cinema chains, as well as independent cinemas across the UK, the films go on to become available as DVDs, or can be downloaded from exhibitiononscreen.com
I found the film captivating, with its story telling narrative and mixture of close ups on artwork and travelogue, with key locations in Degas’ life, including the city streets where he learnt his trade, the ballet and the races.
COMING SOON... Art lovers can look forward to two more artist-specific films in 2019: ■ Young
Picasso debuts in February. It
focuses on the artist’s often overlooked early life, discovering how his upbringing led to his subsequent achievements. The film explores the time he spent in Malaga, Barcelona and Paris, taking a close
‘Dance Examination’ pastel on paper by Edgar Degas
I
look at work from those early years. ■ 2019
is also the 350th anniversary of
Rembrandt’s death. Showing in cinemas T’S ONE THING to visit an art exhibition, but
artist whose famous works include studies of
from April 9, the film Rembrandt explores
walking from one painting to another can
Parisian ballet dancers, as well as racehorses.
the artist’s life and works. It is said that for
Inspired by an exhibition at the Cambridge
many, Rembrandt is the greatest artist who
leave you wanting to know more. Exhibition on Screen (EOS) has the answer, with engaging
Fitzwilliam Museum, where the UK’s most
ever lived, and this film aims to seek out the
films created in collaboration with experts and
extensive Degas collection is held, the
truth about the man behind the legend. His
top galleries, offering viewers the opportunity
film shows a selection of artworks, many
life story is interwoven throughout, along with
to gain a deeper understanding of art.
usually unseen by the public. Using written
behind-the-scenes preparations for previous
accounts by friends and commentators, and
exhibitions in London and Amsterdam.
Passion for Perfection, tells the fascinating
the narration of Degas’ own letters, the film
■ In
story of the artist’s pursuit of perfection
reveals the complex truth behind one of
examines the artist’s interest in Japanese
through experimentation, lessons learnt
the most influential artists of the late 19th
culture. The film makers travel to the
from studying the past masters, as well
century. The film journeys from Cambridge
Netherlands, to southern France and to
as repetition. One of the founders of
to Paris and Italy, where Degas spent his
Japan to explore the latter’s profound
Impressionism, Edgar Degas was a French
formative years and taught himself to paint.
influence on the work of Van Gogh.
The latest, a 90-minute film called Degas:
June, the film Van Gogh and Japan
GTW
28 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
028 GTW Jan 19 Art films.indd 28
10/12/2018 10:44
To the Summit of Snowdon The group experience above everything else. Travel to Hafod Eryri, Snowdon Summit’s visitor centre, I085m above sea level. Venture to the cairn, where on a clear day the views stretch as far as Ireland. Trains travel to the Summit from May to the end of October and to Clogwyn ¾ up the mountain during March and April (weather permitting). Heritage Steam Experience (34 capacity) and Traditional Diesel Service (74 capacity) available. Group discounts for 25+ passengers. Email our dedicated group booking team at:
bookings@snowdonrailway.co.uk Or call 01286 870 223
snowdonrailway.co.uk Snowdon Mountain Railway, Llanberis, Gwynedd LL55 4TT
snowdonrailway.co.uk
Registered Charity Number 271370
Discover Britain’s foremost modern sculptor at Henry Moore Studios & Gardens Explore Henry Moore’s studios, home and sculptures in over 70 acres of glorious countryside, plus a new exhibition of the artist’s drawings.
3 APRIL - 27 OCTOBER 2019 WEDNESDAYS TO SUNDAYS & BANK HOLIDAYS 11AM-5PM groupvisits@henry-moore.org
HP Template.indd 29
HENRY MOORE STUDIOS & GARDENS Perry Green, Herts, SG10 6EE www.henry-moore.org
12/12/2018 20:24
Days out
TENbest of the
DAYS OUT FOR FAMILIES & GROUPS
Grimsthorpe reveals 800 years of Lincolnshire history
1 Grimsthorpe Castle Where history comes to life
Step back in time Discovering what life was like for ordinary people in the North
While there’s been a ‘castle’ at Grimsthorpe for
final masterpiece of Blenheim’s architect Sir John
East in the 19th and 20th
around 800 years, today it’s more of a large
Vanbrugh. Open to families and groups from
centuries is the premise behind
country pile than a traditional turreted affair,
March until the end of September, you can take
Beamish, a fabulous outdoor
having been in the Willoughby de Eresby family
a guided tour of the castle and its state rooms,
museum in County Durham. It’s
for 500 years.
explore the gardens, and walk or bike ride through
currently in the midst of a multi-
the parkland trails, which can take you on a route
million revamp, and has just been
granted by Henry VIII to William, Baron Willoughby
of up to 10 miles as you explore thousands of
awarded official Coach Friendly
de Eresby when he married Maria de Salinas,
acres that are home to buzzards, red kites, swans,
Status by The Confederation
lady-in-waiting to Katherine of Aragon, in 1516),
geese, ducks and deer.
of Passenger Transport UK, no
its oldest part, King John’s Tower, was built in the
Get me there: Based near Bourne in south
less. Groups of 15 or more get
early 13th century.
Lincolnshire, plan your visit – and take a virtual tour
discounts and special offers,
– at grimsthorpe.co.uk – and buy your discounted
see beamish.org.uk
With an impressive history (the castle was
And if you detect a hint of Blenheim Palace about its design, that’s because the house was the
tickets at our sister site grouptraveloffers.com
30 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
030-037 GTW Jan 19 Coach Group.indd 30
10/12/2018 11:17
GLENSHEE SKI CENTRE CAIRNWELL, BRAEMAR, ABERDEENSHIRE AB35 5XU
22 Lifts & 36 38 Runs to suit all levels of skiers and boarders
FACILITES INLCUDE: FACILITIES INCLUDE: equipmentHire, Hire, Snowsports Snowsports School, Equipment School, Shop Shop &&33Mountain MountainCafés. Café’s. Openingtimes timesare are8.30 8.30am Opening am -– 5pm 5pm (7 (7 days daysaaweek weekduring duringseason) season) Chairliftand and café café open open during during summer Chairlift summer June/September June/September
Inspiring days out for groups at RHS Gardens
Save up to 50% on repeat visits*
Start planning your group visit today
www.rhs.org.uk/groups 020 7821 3170 Glenshee SkiFax: Centre Tel No: 013397 41320 (dial 1 for snow report) 013397 41665
E-mail: info@ski-glenshee.co.uk
Website: www.ski-glenshee.co.uk
*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
Britain’s finest hour – your finest day out
Have I got some stories to tell you!
Relive this country’s finest hour with a visit to the Battle of Britain Memorial. Our interactive Scramble Experience brings to life the skills, bravery and sacrifices of ‘the Few’ in 1940, while the clifftop site inspires reflection and remembrance. Film footage and audio clips allow the Few to tell their stories as only they can. Look for well-known names on the Christopher Foxley-Norris Memorial Wall, admire the replica Hurricane and Spitfire, shoot down enemy aircraft from a mock-up Hurricane cockpit in The Scramble Experience and enjoy a coffee and unrivalled views of the Channel from our first floor café.
“Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few” Winston Churchill
VISIT THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN MEMORIAL ON KENT’S FAMOUS WHITE CLIFFS AT CAPEL-LE-FERNE, NEAR FOLKESTONE, KENT CT18 7JJ. For more information, please call 01303 249 292 or visit www.battleofbritainmemorial.org
HP Template.indd 31
The Battle Of Britain Memorial Trust CIO. Registered Charity No 1169005.
14/12/2018 08:29
Days out
2 Anfield Stadium
Go behind the scenes at one of the world’s most iconic stadiums Take the LFC Stadium Tour, where multimedia
press conference in the press room and touch
audio handsets allow you to wander at your
the ‘This is Anfield’ sign before walking down
own pace, taking in views of this hallowed
the player’s tunnel to the sound of the Anfield
Dine in style
Liverpudlian pitch from the top level of the
roar. Take your seat in the manager’s dugout,
The smart 3 AA Rosette Peninsula
Main Stand (said handsets also allow you to
then finish your tour in The Kop.
Restaurant at InterContinental London
see and hear for yourself Anfield’s infamous
The tour’s available in nine languages, and
– The O2 sits on the Greenwich
friendly, knowledgeable tour guides are also
Peninsula, offering breathtaking views
available throughout your tour to answer any
of the River Thames and Canary Wharf.
game in the state-of-the-art home team
questions you may have.
Its private dining room caters for
dressing room, sit in your favourite player’s
Get me there: The tour also includes entry to
up to 24 guests. Find out more at
seat and watch exclusive videos about each
The Liverpool FC Story, the Club’s interactive
peninsula-restaurant.com
player using your handset. Take part in a lively
museum. Find out more at liverpoolfc.com
matchday atmosphere). See where the players prepare for the big
Blair Castle sits in the glorious Perthshire hills
3 Blair Castle & Gardens Stay and play in the Perthshire hills
Situated in the heart of Atholl Estates, Blair Castle and Gardens is set in 145,000 acres of rolling farmland and wild open hills. Built in 1269, the castle first opened its doors to visitors in 1936, and each of the 30 rooms now on display are brimming with historic treasures, including furniture, weapons, paintings, china and lace work. The extensive grounds include the Hercules Garden, a nineacre walled garden restored to its original Georgian design, Diana’s Grove, a Chinese bridge, a sculpture trail, an orchard and more. Visitors can make the most of their visit by staying in the on-site self-catering accommodation. The estate boasts 11 Scandinavian inspired Woodland Lodges, sleeping up to six, five larger Highland Lodges sleeping up to 20, six two-person camping pods and 18 holiday homes. Get me there: Although the Castle closes to the general public at the end of October, it can be reopened for groups in the winter season. Tours take approximately 50 minutes and must be booked in advance via bookings@blair-castle.co.uk, or visit www.blair-castle.co.uk 32 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
030-037 GTW Jan 19 Coach Group.indd 32
10/12/2018 11:17
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
A4 Castle 2017.indd 1 FP Template.indd 33
21/09/2017 13:15 12/12/2018 19:19
Out comes the gin!
4 Metrodeco vintage tearoom
Give your next trip to Brighton a decadent twist
Metrodeco – a vintage tearoom with a quirky
It’s been said that Metrodeco’s scones
and eclectic décor – specialises in afternoon
are the best in Brighton, and the team also
tea. Its friendly team, who dress in their
offer a boozy addition in the form of Prosecco,
own vintage style as music from the 1940s,
local Sussex gins and their own unique boozy
’50s and ’60s plays in the background,
tea cocktails.
welcome parties large and small, and the
Metrodeco also opens in the evening, when
Waxy’s a winner!
venue has a stylish private area so larger
the lights are dimmed and out comes the gin!
Waxy O’Connor’s, the famous Irish pub
groups can sit together.
So if sampling a section of craft gins and
with locations in London, Manchester and
tea cocktails sounds more your cup of tea,
Glasgow, clinched the Irish Pub of the
its own blends of loose leaf tea and infusions,
walk this way...
Year for Europe award at the prestigious
and you can try as many blends as you like,
Get me there: Find out more and start
Irish Hospitality Global Awards. Join in the
from traditional breakfast tea to healthy green
planning your vintage tea with a twist at
celebrations at waxyoconnors.co.uk
teas and interesting Oolongs.
metro-deco.com
Particular about your tea? Metrodeco has
34 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
030-037 GTW Jan 19 Coach Group.indd 33
10/12/2018 11:18
Days out
5 Bustronome
Meals on wheels has never been so much fun
A brand new concept, groups can now enjoy fine dining as they travel in style around London’s major attractions and landmarks on board the top deck of Bustronome’s glass-roofed bus. The bus, which holds up to 38, gives 360° views of the capital as you tuck in. The downstairs is equipped with guest toilets, a cloakroom and a kitchen. Dinner is served from Wednesday to Saturday – a six-course meal feast costs £105 (or go for the wine pairing, from £135), and there are plans to serve lunch and afternoon tea, as
Turn to page 99 for our 16-page London guide
well as bespoke packages for individuals and groups, from brunch to canapés. The bus can even pick up a group from a West End show, take them around the sights of London, with dinner en route, and then drop them off at a club
for some dancing. Get me there: Plan your ultimate bus trip at bustronome.com
6 LEGOLAND Windsor Resort Leave no brick unturned...
With more than 55 rides, attractions and
can all ride together in a sub and explore an
shows, there’s something for everyone at
underwater world, to the many lands
LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, from the group-
– including LEGO NINJAGO World.
friendly Atlantis submarine ride, where you
Get me there: See legoland.co.uk
7
Jorvik Viking Centre
Time for a quick pillage?
The GTW award-winning Jorvik Viking Centre invites visitors to hop aboard its high-tech ride experience and be transported back to the year AD960. Eric Bloodaxe, the last Viking King in Jorvik, has been expelled and the city is transforming itself. The gallery experiences have been completely updated, with new display cases allowing you to get up close to the precious Viking artefacts. You’ll have the chance to dig deeper into the Viking story of York using the latest in cutting-edge technology. Plus, the centre’s Viking hosts will be on hand to help bring the period to life. Get me there: Find out more and plan your visit at jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk/ groups
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
030-037 GTW Jan 19 Coach Group.indd 34
35
10/12/2018 11:18
To find out ; hone more telep
50 4 0136o4r e6m4ail5;
grange .org.uk t s a f k c u b @
THE GRANGE
RESTAURANT & TEA ROOM
Buckfast Abbey
Visit
Buckfast Abbey
Over 200 cover restaurant with additional outside seating.
a great day
breakfasts and • Delicious home cooked hot meals, snacks, teas and coffee. teas all day long. • Cream wifi. • Free • Group bookings welcome.
out
VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION -
www.buckfast.org.uk
GROUP VISITS
Wells Cathedral Wells, Somerset
England’s first entirely Gothic Cathedral and Vicars’ Close in the heart of medieval Wells, near to Cheddar Gorge and the cities of Bath and Bristol
Pre-booked groups benefit from:
discounted group rates • dedicated tour guide • tailored tour themes • 10% discount card for Cathedral shops and café • free place for group organiser • “meet and greet” system for coaches in Wells
01749 671663
HP Template.indd 36
visits@wellscathedral.uk.net
www.wellscathedral.org.uk/visit
14/12/2018 08:27
Days out Woburn Abbey in Bedfordshire
9 The Royal Yacht
Britannia
Follow in the footsteps of royalty Get a taste of what it is to be royal on board the Royal Yacht Britannia, now permanently moored at Leith in Edinburgh. It’s sailed more than one million miles around the world, taking Her Majesty The Queen and the royal family to many
8
exotic locations, and today visitors can
Woburn Abbey
explore the five decks, before stopping for refreshments in the Royal Deck Tea
Enjoy a taste of Abbey life
Room, where the royals would have enjoyed drinks receptions.
Just off the M1 in Bedfordshire, Woburn
attraction packages and discounts).
Abbey & Gardens has everything – a glorious
Get me there: Woburn has plenty of
team are on hand to help you arrange
The Royal Yacht Britannia’s groups
stately home to wander around, wonderful art
group discounts, packages and incentives for
your trip, and discounts are available
collections, beautiful gardens and the minor
groups of over 12 and a dedicated groups
if there are 15 or more of you.
addition of a world-famous safari park just
co-ordinator to help steer you to the right
Get me there: Plan your visit at
next door, and the famous Bletchley Park
package. Email lisa.weaver@woburn.co.uk
royalyachtbritannia.co.uk
not too far away (you can enjoy multi
or visit woburnabbey.co.uk
10 Portsmouth Historic Dockyard Make waves down in Hampshire
Take an audio tour of HMS Victory to learn about the fall of Admiral Nelson during the Battle of Trafalgar (and see the exact spot where he fell), step on board HMS Warrior – a warship that never fired a shot in anger, largely because it was so feared – or go even further back in time to learn about the excavation of the Mary Rose and life on board Henry VIII’s favourite ship, before taking a tour of the harbour. Get me there: Opt for a full navy day ticket for all 11 attractions; a day attraction ticket for any one, two or three attractions; or a Portsmouth combined ticket, which covers the Dockyard and a visit to the nearby Spinnaker Tower. Find out more at historicdockyard.co.uk
GTW
Explore HMS Warrior, Britain’s first armoured battleship
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
030-037 GTW Jan 19 Coach Group.indd 37
37
10/12/2018 11:18
Days out Illuminate is set to return in November 2019, with events across the UK
Feel Illuminated! Get 2019 off to a bright start... start
T
HIRTY FIVE MILLION people today are
IN BLOOM...
descendants of the Mayflower Pilgrims
Always a favourite with GTW readers,
who made the voyage from England to the
2019 is set to be a fantastic year for
New World in 1620... and as the 400th
visitors to the four main RHS Gardens:
our Q&A section full of gardening advice from
anniversary approaches, a series of Mayflower
Wisley in Surrey, Hyde Hall in Essex,
the experts at the RHS.
400 events are set to take place in the historic
Rosemoor in Devon and Harlow Carr in
UK ports they sailed from.
Yorkshire. From guided expert tours to flower
GORGE YOURSELF!
shows, see the website to plan your year
The Ironbridge Gorge Museums have teamed
of garden loveliness.
up with other leading Shropshire attractions
Last November saw a series of Illuminate events happen across the country, coinciding with Thanksgiving in America. And they’re
Plus don’t forget RHS Garden Wisley’s
to offer a series of day trips with a twist for
set to return in November 2019, as
grand unveiling of its new arrivals hall, along
groups of 15 or more planning to visit the
Illuminate opens a year-long anniversary
with two new restaurants and an expanded
area in 2019:
programme of events for the official 400-
plant centre (due in the spring).
■ Iron:
Past, Present and Future is a new
year commemoration of the sailing of the
To find out more call 020 7821 3170,
day trip package combining Blists Hill Victorian
Mayflower, culminating in Illuminate 2020.
email groups@rhs.org.uk or visit rhs.org.uk/
Town with the British Ironworks Centre
See mayflower400uk.org/events/
groups – and turn to page 92 for
in Oswestry.
38 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
038-040 GTW Jan 19 2019 itinerary planningindd.indd 38
10/12/2018 11:25
FP Template.indd 39
12/12/2018 19:20
Days out The English Heritage-run Audley End House in Essex
THE AUCKLAND PROJECT A new landmark has launched in County Durham, signalling the second phase of a £130m visitor destination, which is currently in development. The Auckland Tower, in Bishop Auckland Market Place, stands at 29m high and will serve as the unmissable starting point for anyone visiting the soon-to-be-unveiled Auckland Project. Centred around the 900-year-old Auckland Castle, The Project is set to conserve the Castle and replenish it, transforming the visitor experience when
Step back in time at Blists Hill Victorian Town
it’s opened to the public in 2019. Auckland Castle will form the heart of
■ All Aboard! allows groups to relax
this historic city, including – of course! – a
a new destination spanning more than
on a River Severn cruise around the
number of Morse-themed rambles, the
200 acres and seven distinct venues in
county town of Shrewsbury on board the
favourite of which remains the Inspector
and around the Castle grounds, from
Sabrina, followed by a trip to Blists Hill
Morse Lewis and Endeavour Tour.
galleries and museums to restaurants.
Victorian Town in the afternoon (available
Other tours include the CS Lewis & Tolkien
from March 1 until October 31)
Tour (just two of the literary giants who
■ Full Steam Ahead! allows groups to take
have lived and worked in the city), the Lewis
a journey back in time in a package deal
Carroll and Alice in Wonderland tour, and
with the Severn Valley Railway. Start the
the newly re-launched Pubs Tours, which
day with a nostalgic one-way journey on a
includes two free drinks.
Find out more about all the exciting plans at aucklandproject.org
with a discount at all English Heritage
steam-hauled train through the picturesque
The team will also help you arrange your
properties for groups, one tour leader and
Worcestershire and Shropshire countryside,
own tour with a private Blue or Green Badge
one coach driver admitted free with each
then head to Blists Hill Victorian Town
Guide. Call them on 01865 686 441 for
group, free fam visits for the travel trade, and
(available from April 13 until November 30).
more information, email officialtours@
themed tours available for pre-booked groups
experienceoxfordshire.com or visit
at many properties, what’s not to love?
Groups will need to use their own coach to travel between locations and book at least two weeks in advance. Call the Group Visits
experienceoxfordshire.org
email visits@ironbridge.org.uk; details can
STEEPED IN HERITAGE
also be found at ironbridge.org.uk
Chances are a visit to one
Officer Ben Walker on 01952 435 900 or
FOLLOW IN MORSE’S FOOTSTEPS
of the wonderful English Heritage properties
Oxford Official Walking Tours take groups
across the UK is already
of all sizes on expert-led walks through
on your list for 2019. And
To discuss your group’s visit, subscribe to the free travel trade printed newsletter, or order a free copy of
Turn to page 70 for more on the wonderful city of Oxford
the 2018/19 Group Visits Guide, call 0117 975 1349 or email traveltrade@englishheritage.org.uk. For more on the properties and sites see www.english-heritage.org.uk
GTW
40 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
038-040 GTW Jan 19 2019 itinerary planningindd.indd 40
10/12/2018 11:25
A GOLDEN YEAR FOR STUART LINE CRUISES! This year, one of Devon’s top attractions, family-run Stuart Line Cruises, not only celebrates its Golden Anniversary but also scooped Gold at the Visit Devon Tourism Awards, as Small Attraction of the Year. Stuart Line Cruises' first boat trips were run by Tony Stuart in the summer of 1968 from the clock tower on Exmouth seafront, to the cries of "half hour trip around the bay, pay on the boat!". During the 50 years since, the business has passed from Tony to his son, Ian and daughter-in-law, Philippa and in 2013 their son, Jake also joined the business. Over recent years, Stuart Line Cruises has expanded with a fleet comprising of Tudor Rose and Pride of Exmouth, which last year underwent a huge extension and refurbishment, allowing her to accommodate more groups. Along with offering year-round river cruises and summer coastal cruises, there is also a wide range of Special Events that make an excellent addition to any South West itinerary.
“This is a very special year for us, to reach a 50th anniversary is a true milestone and we have support of our community and the dedication of our great team to thank for getting us here. This year has been one of our best so far, with more holidaymakers coming to the area and all the positive developments in Exmouth, the town can only continue to become a more incredible place to live and visit. To now be awarded Gold in the Devon Tourism Awards for Small Attraction of the Year really is the icing on the cake!”
“Its definitely great to be able to carry on the family business into its 50th year. Tradition is important, but we also need to develop, so along with all trips that we are well known for, we also have an exciting timetable of Special Events which bring a whole new experience to being on our boats. We look forward to seeing all our regular customers and welcoming new ones aboard for another 50 years to come.”
Ian Stuart
Jake Stuart
SAILING ALL YEAR ROUND
RIVER CRUISES
01395 222144 FP Template.indd 41
COASTAL CRUISES
Small Attraction of the Year 2018
SPECIAL EVENTS
www.stuartlinecruises.co.uk 12/12/2018 19:20
Dive straight in Nudging the Welsh border, the pretty county of Cheshire is a haven for fine food, great wine and wild animals, as Helen Milbank discovers
F
UNNY THE RANDOM conversations you
‘Jack the blind sheepdog’ and you can meet
the pretty village of Warmingham in Cheshire,
have in bars. There we were, enjoying a glass
him online. We met him in the flesh the next
is one of the best places I’ve ever stayed. Yes,
of wine in The Bear’s Paw, our nine-year-old
day after his owner, Liz, invited us up to the
it has famous Border Collies on its doorstep,
daughter’s stuffed animals lined up beside us
farm to meet him. He was such a fantastic
but it also has amazing food, great staff and
(she’d just blown several weeks’ worth of
sheep-herder, Liz and her family had no idea
luxury rooms that feel far more decadent than
pocket money at Chester Zoo). The lady
he was blind until he ran straight into a
their price tag would have you believe (double
behind the bar commented on how well
wooden peg sticking out of the ground. Like
rooms from £115 per night; singles from £105).
behaved they were all being. “I love animals
I say, strange the conversations you have!
too,” she said. “In fact I have a famous dog; he’s the UK’s only blind sheepdog...” Turns out she wasn’t joking either. Google
Blind sheepdogs aside, we’d have had a
The restaurant has an AA Rosette, sources the majority of its produce from local farms,
great night whatever the chat. The Bear’s Paw,
and serves a mighty fine lunch, dinner and
a 19th century country hotel and restaurant in
afternoon tea.
42 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
042-046 GTW Jan 19 Cheshire.indd 42
10/12/2018 11:28
Cheshire
The Bear’s Paw, a 19th century country hotel and restaurant in the village of Warmingham
Top-notch fare at The Bear’s Paw is courtesy of its AA Rosette restaurant
Decadent rooms at The Bear’s Paw start at £105 per night
Chester Zoo’s jaw-dropping jaguar Napo (meet his ‘roomie’ Goshi on page 6)
The place has a great atmosphere, and – good news for Jack and his mates – is dog-friendly. We chatted to two young
Make a splash in the Grosvenor’s pool
ever in the area, please do look it up; you can
we’ve already met this issue – Chester Zoo’s
take a virtual tour at thebearspaw.co.uk
baby rhino, Hazina, is our speedy cover star this month, while Goshi the jaguar is draped
newly-weds who were enjoying their
ESCAPE FROM THE ZOO
honeymoon chez Bear’s Paw, their much-loved
Back to tales of Chester Zoo, and the stuffed
Irish Wolfhound along for the ride, or should
animals that sparked our chance meeting with
of this 125-acre park, which is home to the
that be walk?
Jack were the much-treasured spoils of a day
likes of the Spirit of the Jaguar, the Tropical
spent at this fantastic attraction, hailed as the
Realm, Dragons in Danger and the new Islands
amazing walking country, close to the market
UK’s most visited zoo and star of Channel 4’s
zone, where you can take a boat trip through
towns of Sandbach, Middlewich and Crewe,
The Secret Life of the Zoo. It’s home to a
the South East Asian-inspired landscape. We
and just a short hop from the M6. If you’re
staggering 20,000-plus animals, two of which
loved the Fruit Bat Forest, a dark, fascinating
The pub sits slap bang in the centre of some
across pages six and seven. A day just isn’t enough to take in the whole
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
042-046 GTW Jan 19 Cheshire.indd 43
43
10/12/2018 11:28
Cheshire ‘cave’ where the zoo’s colony of bats fly
around (check it out at chesterzoo.org/
past so close you can feel their wings touch
campaigns/download-our-app). There’s also
your hair.
heaps of information on the website to help
Brilliantly well written information boards
you plan your day at chesterzoo.org, plus
about the animals are dotted throughout the
the chance to save 10% on tickets when
zoo, and all the habitats are a real cut above.
you book online.
Go early, or go twice is my advice, and download Chester Zoo’s free app for iPhone
TIME TO HEAD TO THE SPA
and android, which helps you find your way
Our Cheshire mini break also included a stay at the smart Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa
NELSON HOTELS
on the outskirts of Chester. This four-star, 73-bedroom hotel is just a five-minute drive
Both The Pear’s Paw and the Grosvenor
from the city centre, and is perhaps best
Pulford Hotel & Spa are part of the
known, and best loved, for its two top-notch
upmarket Nelson Hotels family. Find
restaurants and its Romanesque spa and
out more about this Cheshire chain at
swimming pool.
nelson-hotels.co.uk
Opt to dine in the plush Palm Court Restaurant, Bar & Piano Lounge for brunch,
Helen and daughter Georgie (array of cuddly toys just out of sight)
afternoon tea or dinner, or head to the The Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa on the outskirts of Chester
44 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
042-045 GTW Jan 19 Cheshire.indd 44
10/12/2018 12:34
Cheshire And while in Chester... ■ Visit
The Grosvenor’s plush Palm Court Restaurant
the 1,000-year-old
Chester Cathedral ■ Place
your bets at Chester Racecourse,
the oldest still in use in the UK ■ Cruise
the River Dee with ChesterBoat
hotel’s gastro-pub, Nelson’s Bar. You can sweat all that fine dining off in the award-winning spa, which is home to a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam room and sauna, plus gym, outdoor tennis court, spa boutique and more. The pool is open to hotel guests, with youngsters allowed in at set times (check with staff – when we went Georgie was allowed in morning and night, but ushered out between times!). It’s a great place to relax, and with twin rooms starting at just over £100 per night, great value too. We ate in the Palm Court, which comes into its own on a winter’s night, as it’s all twinkly lights and moody lighting. The food’s fantastic
to a Laurent-Perrier wine cave. Think floor
chandelier give a chic feel, and with a ‘poser’
and I can certainly vouch for the sirloin steak
to ceiling wine racks that house almost 100
table (their wording, not mine!) seating up to
and fancy ice-cream (not together). Find out
varieties of old and new world wines and
eight people, the cave can be used for wine
more at grosvenorpulfordhotel.co.uk
Champagnes, along with specially selected,
tastings and exclusive private dining. In fact,
fine cellar wines. Mirrored walls and a crystal
I might just move in...
And another thing... Palm Court is also home
GTW
Chester Zoo’s new Islands zone
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
042-045 GTW Jan 19 Cheshire.indd 45
45
10/12/2018 12:34
Curve_Coach Tours UK_01_aw.indd 2 FP Template.indd 46
12/12/2018 20:11
FP Template.indd 47
13/11/2018 11:24 12/12/2018 20:11
The North West The famous Strawberry Field red gates will soon open to Beatles fans
Strawberry Fields Forever
Brand new Beatles attractions, Corrie tours... there’s never been a better time to explore the north west
says: “I’m sure John would have been thrilled that Strawberry Field is to become an inspirational visitor experience.” Strawberry Field is still owned and operated by The Salvation Army, which hopes the attraction will weave together educational, cultural, heritage and spiritual exploration. The site is around 15 minutes’ drive from Liverpool city centre. Find out more at strawberryfieldliverpool.com
THE QUAY TO A GREAT DAY Salford Quays, the home of MediaCityUK, is celebrating its 18th in 2019 with a host of
S
special events. All the details can be found at TRAWBERRY FIELD, LIVERPOOL will open its gates in late summer 2019,
photo taken – will soon open to Beatles fans. The attraction will include an interactive
thequays.org.uk – and get set to explore the likes of The Lowry, City Centre Cruises, the
bringing a new twist to Beatles tours. The
exhibition exploring the site’s history,
Helly Hansen Watersports Centre, the Lowry
iconic site, immortalised by John Lennon in
John’s childhood, and the writing and
Outlet and more...
Strawberry Fields Forever, was the site of
recording of the song. Visits will include a
the former Salvation Army children’s home
tour of the garden and woods where John
the set of Coronation Street resided within
where John played as a child. And now, the
played, and there’ll be a café and shop.
Granada Studios, but these days you’ll find
famous red gates – outside which thousands of people journey every year to have their
Julia Baird, John’s sister and Honorary President of the Strawberry Field Project,
It’s even home to Corrie! Up until 2014,
the Rovers Return and Roy’s Rolls over at MediaCity. Along with Coronation Street and
48 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
048-050 GTW Jan 19 North West.indd 48
10/12/2018 11:29
A UNIQUE BOAT TRIP AT THE ALBERT DOCK PROVIDING HISTORICAL GUIDED CRUISES FOR ALL COACH PASSENGERS
BUSINESS EVENTS
AFTERNOON TEA CRUISES
EVENING DINNER CRUISES
See the best views of Liverpool’s historic docklands, enjoy excellent food, make use of our on-board bar and relax in style on The Floating Grace. ● Mid-morning Cruises ● Afternoon Tea Cruises ● Private Functions ● Business Events
● Sunday Lunches ● 3 Course Evening Cruises 5* trip advisor rating.
07540 373 838 bookings@floatinggrace.co.uk Floating Grace, Albert Dock, Salthhouse Quay, Liverpool, L3 4AE @tfgliverpool @FloatingGrace1 FP Template.indd 49
14/12/2018 08:23
The North West Rosamund Street, an 80-minute set tour lets you have a nosey around the new Victoria Street expansions. Tours are only available when cast and crew have downed tools for the weekend. This normally (but not always) means you can only really come between 9am and 6pm on selected Saturdays between May and November. Advanced booking is required at coronationstreettour.co.uk
AND TALKING OF THE LOWRY... Join group travel specialists Steve Reed Tourism at the Group Travel Forum North – in association with Group Travel World magazine – in October at The Lowry in Salford Quays, Manchester (pictured right). The event, on Monday October 14, will host exhibitors from around the country, including hotels, attractions, destinations and tourism services – its aim to generate
can join City Centre Cruises Manchester
The GTW team will be there, so come
new and additional group bookings, and
for a fam cruise straight after the event
and say hi! To find out more, email steve@
put the buyers of tours together with
(the Farington Lodge Hotel in Leyland will
stevereedtourism.co.uk, call 01420 560288
sellers. And once you’ve networked, you
be hosting some of the tour operators).
or visit stevereedtourism.co.uk GTW
Salford Quays
50 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
048-050 GTW Jan 19 North West.indd 50
10/12/2018 11:29
Cliveden’sstunning stunninghouse houseand and Cliveden’s Cliveden’s stunning house and gardensare are theperfect perfect gardens the gardens are for the destination foraperfect agroup groupday dayout. out. destination destination for a group day out. There'sbeautiful beautifulseasonal seasonalfloral floral There's There's beautiful seasonalsculpture floral displays, outstanding sculpture displays, ananoutstanding displays, an and outstanding sculpture collection guidedtours. tours. collection and guided collection and guided tours. Cliveden welcomes group visits throughout the year, from Monday to Cliveden welcomes group visits year,hours fromto Monday Saturday. We recommend youthroughout allow threethe to four see theto formal Saturday. We recommend you allow three to four hours to see the to formal Cliveden welcomes group visits throughout the year,orfrom gardens and have enough time to stop for lunch tea. Monday gardens and enough timeallow toguided stop for tea.towho Saturday. Wehave recommend you three tolunch four hours see wish the formal Cliveden offers pre-bookable tours for or groups to find out Cliveden offers pre-bookable guided tours for groups gardens and have enough time to for lunch or tea.who wish to find out a bit more about the House or stop Garden. aCliveden bitFree more aboutpre-bookable thefor House orguided Garden. offers tours for non-member groups who wish to find out admission NT members, £10 per adult. a bit admission more aboutfor theNT House or Garden. Free members, £10 per non-member adult. Free admission for NT members, £10 per non-member adult.
FP Template.indd 51
12/12/2018 19:23
Still
waters run deep Does Lake Constance suffer from an identity crisis? Ask what country it’s in and the answer is Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein and Switzerland. Mike Pickup takes to the water’s edge to explore the region known as Bodensee
H
OLIDAY EXTRAS’ EFFICIENT meet and greet parking meant that I was soon
I stayed at the lakeside Steigenberger
After breakfast on the terrace I headed out to Tettnang. My route took me past the small airport at Friedrichshafen, now the home of the current Zeppelins. At 75m long they are a quarter of the size of the pre-war models and are powered by electric motors. There’s room for 12 passengers and two pilots, and sightseeing flights range from 30 minutes to two hours. It’s certainly a unique experience.
TIME TO HOP TO IT
Inselhotel, originally a 13th century cloistered
Outside Tettnang I visited Hopfengut. Primarily
on my flight to Zurich, from where a short
Dominican monastery. The hotel was founded
a producer of fine hops for the brewing trade,
train ride took me to the city of Konstanz in
in 1875 by Count Eberhard von Zeppelin,
it also has a small museum and a brewery.
Germany. It’s a lovely mix of old and new, the
who had the original frescoes restored, and
I learned that hops are the fastest-growing
peaceful, almost deserted historic sector in
it was the birthplace of Graf von Zeppelin,
plants in Europe, coming second only to
stark contrast to the bustling modern city.
the designer of the famous airships.
Japanese bamboo.
52 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
052-054 GTW Jan 19 Lake Constance.indd 52
10/12/2018 11:31
Lake Constance At 500-plus kilometres square, Lake Constance spans four countries
Quick spin in a Zeppelin, anyone?
The lakeside Steigenberger Inselhotel
Liechtenstein’s Vaduz Castle – home to the royal family
The plants grow vertically around wires suspended from a frame, and the first shoots
and the delightful hospitality carried on.
mountain trail taking in three peaks, and a cheese trail. Back in town I enjoyed a delicious
are wound clockwise around the wires to start
FLOATING AN IDEA
them off. They won’t grow anti-clockwise and
The next morning a short drive took me to
if they are wound the wrong way they will
Bregenz. It has the world’s largest floating
This tiny state with a population of just
unravel and die.
stage, which each summer puts on a major
38,500 spread over 11 municipalities is the
lakeside lunch at Pier 69 before setting off for country number three, Liechtenstein.
operatic production watched by up to 7,000
richest in the world. However it wasn’t always
a selection of the brewery’s output and
people seated on the lake shore. The sets are
this way. In 1938 Prince Franz Joseph moved
savoured a traditional lunch in the restaurant
huge and the waterside setting adds a special
from Vienna to Liechtenstein following the
before setting off again to Hard in Austria.
atmosphere to the evening.
annexation of Austria by Germany; by the
Strictly in the interests of research I sampled
This quiet town is home to the Hohentwiel,
From there I walked into the town and took
end of WWII the country was in dire financial
a beautifully restored royal paddle steamer
the Cable Car Pfander to the top of the nearby
straits. The prince sold a number of works
dating back to 1913. A gourmet five-course
mountain. The vistas were stunning, but there
of art to raise finance for the country. One,
dinner was served as we sailed the lake and
is so much more to do than admire the view.
a painting by Leonardo da Vinci, was sold for
were entertained by talented musicians.
Local wildlife includes deer, wild boar and ibex.
today’s equivalent of 50 million dollars.
It was so enjoyable that no-one noticed we had arrived back at our starting point,
There’s entertainment for children, a restaurant and a number of hiking trails including a
The prosperous nature of the country and its inhabitants is down to the royal family’s WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
052-054 GTW Jan 19 Lake Constance.indd 53
53
10/12/2018 11:31
Lake Constance
To celebrate the 300th anniversary of the country, the Liechtenstein Trail is being launched in May 2019 and an app has been created to describe the many fascinating points of interest on the 75km route.
The Hohentweil is a restored royal paddle steamer that dates back to 1913
efforts and the current prince is rightly a
the capital. Below, on the pedestrian main
popular ruler. Although a constitutional
street full of statues and art, the Treasure
monarchy where the prince has the right to
Chamber is a must for visitors. It houses
veto any legislation, each municipality can, if
not only the crown jewels and an amazing
its people want, secede from the country; but
collection of old armoury, but one of Fabergé’s
then who would want to!
famous Easter Eggs. The country was unique in
The royal family live in a castle perched dramatically on a high rocky outcrop in Vaduz,
having a vacuum facility capable of testing the moon landing vehicle, and in response NASA presented it with a moon rock, which is also on
■ The
Bodensee Pass, valid for three,
seven or 14 days, gives visitors free
display. For those wanting a rare Liechtenstein stamp in their passport, the nearby tourist office is happy to oblige. RALPH LARMANN
GET ME THERE access to many attractions and an
A NIGHT IN THE ALPS
option to include the use of the
A steep drive round many hairpin bends
lake’s ferries. For more information
brought me to the mountain village of Malbun,
visit www.bodensee.eu/en
some 5,000 feet up in the Alps, and the
special rucksacks which include a map, wine
■ Holiday
lovely Hotel Turna. I enjoyed a cookery
glass and a code to access the wine vaults
trusted Meet and Greet and other
demonstration before a delightful meal and
positioned along the route to sample the local
services at all major UK airports.
a good night’s sleep.
produce; a great way to finish my trip.
Extras offers
To book, call 0800 1313 777 or visit HolidayExtras.com
My final day took me to Weinfelden and my
Bregenz is home to the world’s largest floating stage
The four countries bordering Lake Constance
fourth country, Switzerland, where I sampled a
deliver an enticing variety of great food and
wine trail through the vineyards. The trail starts
wine, lovely scenery and fascinating attractions.
at the railway station where visitors can buy
It’s certainly an area worth visiting.
GTW
54 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
052-054 GTW Jan 19 Lake Constance.indd 54
10/12/2018 11:31
Come and discover Wiltshire’s hidden treasure
IMAGE CREDIT: MAMMOTH MEDIA
www.corsham.gov.uk/visit
FP Template.indd 55
History, heritage, arts and crafts, great places to eat and drink and lots of independent shops – plus BBC One’s Poldark was filmed here too.
Just 8 miles from Bath on the A4, 4 miles from the M4 (J17), or 3 miles from Chippenham Station.
12/12/2018 19:23
UKinbound news
Exciting times ahead Cindy Ng shares the latest news from UKinbound, which has just welcomed its new CEO Joss Croft...
I
T’S BEEN A whirlwind autumn at UKinbound as we welcomed our new CEO Joss Croft,
elected a new Board of Directors, launched our Awards for Excellence, held 16 events that included Discover Workshops, seminars, fam trips and networking evenings around the UK, and a brand new B2B speed-networking evening. We also welcomed more than 20 new members! With over 20 years’ experience in the travel and tourism industry, we are delighted to have Joss on board and are excited by his vision for the Association, which includes building on our advocacy work, continued promotion of the value of inbound tourism to the UK economy, providing more opportunities for our members to increase business outcomes, and delivering real value for the membership. Eager to hit the ground running, Joss’ first day with the team even before he started, was at World Travel Market, where we were delighted to host over 60 tourism businesses on the UKinbound stand. This year we were joined by the VisitBritain Discover England
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 nearly 400 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
Fund team and five Discover England Fund projects, and were honoured to welcome Tourism Minister Michael Ellis MP, who visited
Awards for Excellence and are especially
Awards for Excellence Gala Dinner, compered
members on our stand to understand more
excited to introduce the brand new UKinbound
by Glaswegian comedian Des Clarke.
about their businesses and hear their concerns
Young Excellence Award to recognise
about the future of the industry.
and celebrate the accomplishments and
At our recent Winter General Meeting we
Delegates will also have the option of attending familiarisation trips to Glasgow
commitment of young people in the industry,
and the surrounding areas, including Bute
were pleased to announce the incoming Board
and which we hope will encourage more young
and Loch Lomond.
of Directors, who will take over from the
people to consider tourism as a career with
current Board in February 2019 at our Annual
great potential.
Convention in Glasgow. We look forward to
Our next flagship event is the UKinbound
To find out more about UKinbound, our events and activities and how we can help you grow your business, raise your profile and
welcoming James Aitken, Cashel Travel as the
Annual Convention, held in Glasgow from
represent your views to local and national
new Chair, and he will be joined by 14 Board
6-8 February. We’re looking forward to a
Government, please visit ukinbound.org
Directors all representing the best of the
packed programme including a major B2B
or contact info@ukinbound.org
inbound tourism industry.
workshop, a keynote address by Ayesha
We were delighted to receive a record number of nominations this year for our
But for now, we wish all our members,
Hazarika MBE, seminars and a panel discussion
colleagues and friends in the industry a Merry
with industry leaders, as well as our annual
Christmas and Happy New Year!
GTW
56 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
056 GTW Jan 19 UKinbound.indd 56
10/12/2018 11:35
Free for you
3 to collect! Starting this month,
we have three fantastic animal posters for you to collect
IAN TURNER
THIS ISSUE
WMSP.CO.UK
NEXT ISSUE
WMSP.CO.UK
IN OUR MARCH ISSUE
Frame it! Upgrade to a framed, A4-sized high quality print of one, two or all three of our collectible posters for just £4.99 each. Call Emma on 01733 293487 to pay by credit or debit card or order at grouptravelworld.com/ gtwshop TURN OVER FOR THIS ISSUE’S POSTER WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
057-059 GTW Jan 19 Poster hm.indd 57
57
10/12/2018 11:35
grouptravelworld.com & grouptraveloffers.com
057-059 GTW Jan 19 Poster hm.indd 58
10/12/2018 11:35
This fantastic image, taken by photographer Ian Turner, shows one of four gorgeous cheetah cubs, who were born at Longleat Safari Park in Wiltshire in 2018 to proud mum Wilma. The youngsters can now be seen roaming the park – plan your trip to see them at longleat.co.uk
057-059 GTW Jan 19 Poster hm.indd 59
10/12/2018 11:35
Industry insider COACH TOURISM
ASSOCIATION
For more on the Coach Tourism Association (CTA) and its many member benefits see coachtourism association.co.uk
Woods has always been a family business
A pioneering approach KRISTY ELSMERE
For Kristy Elsmere, joint MD of Woods Travel in West Sussex, finding new and exciting attractions to visit is all in a day’s work
W
OODS HAS ALWAYS been a family business, concentrating on providing
Through almost 50 years in the travel
competitive prices. Two Irizar i6 touring coaches
business (Woods, not me personally!),
have recently been added to our fleet, and
quality holidays to groups and individuals in the
we’ve kept ahead of the game by looking
more will be joining us in the new year.
UK and overseas. I’ve worked in many aspects
forward, preparing for upcoming challenges
■ Find out more about Woods Travel and its
of the business, but 10 years ago I took over the
and leading the way in customer service.
tours and holidays at woodstravel.co.uk
area for which I feel most passionate – creating
We were the first company to introduce
our extensive coach tour programme. It’s
door-to-door coach holidays, we obtained
THE BENEFITS OF THE CTA
exciting to come across a new hotel that would
financial bonding for our holidays before it
Woods have been a member of the CTA
be perfect for our brochure tours or a particular
was legally necessary, and were the first to
for as long as I can remember, and over
group, and find out about a new attraction to
offer combined coach and cruise holidays
the years we’ve benefited greatly from the
add to a programme or build a holiday around.
in the UK through our excellent relationship
opportunities it provides. Through events
We have a high percentage of repeat customers,
with Fred. Olsen Cruises. As Woods also have
such as the annual CTA Conference, the
so keeping the programme fresh is vital.
an independent ABTA bonded travel agency,
Christmas and summer socials and some
we have great contacts with all the leading
excellent fam trips, I have found amazing new
cruise lines and river cruise companies.
suppliers, sampled hotels that now appear
We love working with group organisers. If they come to us with fixed plans about where they want to stay and what they want
There are, of course, challenges facing our
in our brochure, made fantastic contacts and
to see, or have only vague ideas, we always
industry with increasing regulation, decreasing
developed a network of like-minded people who
find a perfect combination, whether they
facilities for coach parking and the uncertainty
exchange help and advice whenever needed.
prefer gardens, stately homes, city breaks or
surrounding Brexit. With the introduction of
This is by far the best value organisation we
battlefields. Going to the travel shows and
clean air zones in London and other cities, we
belong to. Recent changes at the CTA have
belonging to the right organisations is crucial
are continuing to invest heavily in new vehicles
seen new members join the Board, and the
for keeping up to date with new ideas and
to be fully ULEZ compliant, so we can continue
association’s working to make membership
attractions for our groups to experience.
to run both holidays and day excursions at
an even more exciting prospect. GTW
60 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
060 GTW Jan 19 CTA.indd 60
10/12/2018 11:37
FP Template.indd 61
12/12/2018 13:19 19:25 10/10/2018
Is there a doctor in the house? Dr Chris and Dr Xand – of CBBC’s Operation Ouch fame – are heading to the West End with a new, adults-only show. They’ll perform How To Find Love, Lose Weight & Live Forever... Without Really Trying! on Sunday January 6 at the Apollo Theatre in London’s West End. Find out more at nimaxtheatres.com
UNDER ALIEN ATTACK
Out of this world Jeff Wayne’s musical version of The War
Metal Exchange – a 22,000 square foot
of The Worlds is being transformed into
multi-level site in central London.
a pioneering immersive visitor experience that’s set to open in May 2019. The 90-minute multi-sensory experience
VR headsets and multi-sensory storytelling techniques will ensure visitors can smell the grass and feel the chill of the story’s famous Horsell
will mix theatre, virtual reality, augmented
Common, as the ground shakes as the first
reality holograms and cutting-edge technology,
cylinder lands. Live and virtual actors will guide
giving audiences the chance to live through
small groups as they walk, crawl and slide
the Martian invasion of 1898, from the
through the different scenes. Tickets are now
moment they step inside The Old London
on sale at dotdot.london/twotw
Queen of the desert A brand new production of hit musical Priscilla, Queen of the Desert goes on tour in autumn 2019: cue stunning costumes, fabulous feathers and a non-stop parade of dancefloor classics. The show opens in Dartford in September 2019, before touring throughout the UK and Ireland, see priscillauktour.com
A night with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra... ■ The
Food of Love is playing at the Royal Festival Hall
on April 16 at 7.30pm. Celebrate the extraordinary life and works of Shakespeare in this unique theatrical event, narrated by Sir Patrick Stewart. ■ The
Film Music Gala is showing at the Royal Albert Hall
on May 4, with shows at 3pm and 7.30pm. With a live choir, enjoy music from The King’s Speech, Jurassic Park, Gladiator and Saving Private Ryan. ■ ABBAphonic
is on at the Royal Albert Hall on May 29
Jasper Britton as Sir Wilfrid Robarts in Witness for the Prosecution
perform ABBA’s greatest hits, including Dancing Queen,
Witness for the Prosecution
Waterloo, Mamma Mia and Take A Chance.
This Agatha Christie classic has just celebrated its first year in the spectacular
■ The
Chamber of London’s County Hall, with a raft of new cast members including
at 7.30pm. Emma Kershaw and Abbie Osmon will
Planets: An HD Odyssey is playing at the Royal
Albert Hall on June 30 at 7pm. See NASA footage on
Emma Rigby as Romaine Vole and Daniel Solbe as the accused Leonard Vole.
the giant screen as space-inspired music plays, including
Tickets are on sale until September 1, 2019 from witnesscountyhall.com
Star Wars and Sprach Zarathustra.
■ Another
Agatha classic, The Mousetrap goes on tour from January 29,
starring Only Fools and Horses actor Gwyneth Strong as Mrs Boyle. 62 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
062-063 GTW Jan 19 Theatre news.indd 62
10/12/2018 11:38
Theatre news Until the Lions returns to London’s Roundhouse in January
Until the Lions Award-winning dancer Akram Khan’s Until the Lions will return to the venue where it received its world premiere – London’s Roundhouse – for just six performances next month, with Khan dancing the role of Bheeshma for the final time. Created for the atmospheric 360° setting of the Roundhouse in January 2016, the inspiration for the piece is taken from poet Karthika
JEAN-LOUIS FERNANDEZ
Naïr’s book Until The Lions: Echoes from the Mahabharata, an original reworking of the ancient Sanskrit epic. The show runs from January 11-17, see roundhouse.org.uk
Ally Pally’s back!
Kiss and tell
It’s been closed to the public for 80 years,
Award-winning play The Rubenstein
but the newly restored Alexandra Palace
Kiss opens at Southwark Playhouse for
plays host to Richard III in March. Following
a limited four-week run from March 14,
the completion of its three-year East Wing
2019, telling the story of the Rubensteins,
Restoration Project, this will be Alexandra
a deeply devoted Jewish couple whose
Palace’s first ever co-production, alongside
Communist idealism leads to their world
Headlong and Bristol Old Vic, with Royal &
being torn apart by suspicion and treachery.
Derngate Northampton and Oxford Playhouse.
It’s on at the Southwark Playhouse,
From March 13-31, find out more at theatre.
see southwarkplayhouse.co.uk and
alexandrapalace.com/event/richard-iii/
devilyouknowtheatre.com
David Suchet in The Price
NOBBY CLARK
WICKED, the West End musical sensation that tells the untold story of the Witches of Oz, has released a further 500,000 new tickets, and is now booking to November 2019 at London’s Apollo Victoria Theatre, see WickedTheMusical.co.uk
The Price David Suchet and Brendan Coyle will star in the 50th anniversary production, and West End transfer, of Arthur Miller’s The Price. The play tells the story of two long-estranged brothers meeting to divide the family’s possessions. It’s on at Wyndham’s Theatre from February 5 to April 27, 2019, see delfontmackintosh.co.uk
Aspects of Love... ...heads to Southwark Playhouse from January 7 to February 9, 2019, with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Based on the novel by David Garnett, the musical’s set in France in 1947, featuring the iconic Love Changes MATT CROCKET
Everything, Seeing Is Believing and First Man You Remember. Find out more at southwarkplayhouse.co.uk
GTW
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
062-063 GTW Jan 19 Theatre news.indd 63
63
10/12/2018 11:38
Could it be
MATT CROCKETT
magic? There are worse ways to spend a Saturday afternoon than in a dressing room with ’90s mega stars Take That. Vicky Edwards chats to Howard, Mark and Gary about the runaway success of their new touring musical The Band
G
ARY BARLOW (who we’ve already met
for anyone who has ever been a fan or a
band’ – a non-specified five-strong group
on page eight of this issue), Mark Owen
supporter, or anyone who has had a group of
– is everything. Twenty five years on, the now
friends and known love, friendship and loss.
40-something women reunite in a quest to
and Howard Donald don’t mind admitting that right now they’re extremely proud producers. Joined by Robbie Williams, and
he jokes, referring to the Take That hits that
along with David Pugh and Dafydd Rogers,
provide The Band’s soundtrack.
two of the most experienced and well-
“We’re made up that people are connecting
fulfil their dream of meeting their heroes. And don’t be thinking that The Band is a show that only ladies or die-hard Take That fans will enjoy. Howard is adamant on that
regarded theatrical producers in the land, the
with the show and enjoying it so much,” adds
point: “Listen, while guys might be sceptical
boys find themselves at the helm of a new
Mark. “Sometimes I feel a bit guilty for the
about coming to see the show, it IS relevant to
musical that wins fans wherever it goes and
young guys who won the competition [the five
them too. Whether they like the music or not,
has extended its tour – including a current
boys who won TV’s Let it Shine search for the
they will thoroughly enjoy it.”
West End run – due to demand for tickets.
musical’s title roles] because I don’t think they
Agreeing that it reinforces their hunch that
As for mentoring the phenomenally talented
knew just how much work was involved. But
young bucks who collectively play the title
this would be a show people would fall in love
I guess it’s a dream for them and I am made up
role, Howard confesses that as well as
with, a beaming Howard gets in first to express
for them, too.”
enjoying being a guru to AJ, Curtis, Nick,
delight. “It is incredible to say we’re coming to ©VICKY EDWARDS
“The only let down is that the music is crap,”
London and touring until March – the longevity
A FRIENDSHIP THAT RESONATES
is brilliant!
To be clear, the show is not about Take That.
Sario and Yazdan, it is not a role he ever envisaged himself in. “I never envisaged being a pop star let alone
The key to its success is familiarity; it strikes
Instead The Band tells the story of a group of
a producer – I was on a YTS training scheme
a chord with people’s lives by being a reflection
16-year-old friends for whom, in 1992, ‘the
to be a vehicle painter and panel beater when
64 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
064-065 GTW Jan 19 Theatre review - The Band.indd 64
10/12/2018 11:41
JAY BROOKS
Theatre review
Howard, Gary, Mark and Robbie
The show’s stars Sario Solomon (far left), Nick Carsberg, Curtis T Johns, Yazdan Qafouri and AJ Bentley
MATT CROCKETT
Currently playing the West End, full tours dates are at thebandmusical.com
I joined Take That, but luckily we had the right
years we had no time for girlfriends and family.
people behind us. The lads [of The Band] are
I have kids now and I’m so lucky that I have
GET ME THERE
really down to earth, which is how we formed
a job that means that I can usually be with
■ The
our friendship.”
them all day long and just go off on tour
its West End season at Theatre
now and again.”
Royal Haymarket until January 12,
“I’ve enjoyed the mentoring more than anything,” agrees Mark. “You feel like a father
“What would I say to my younger self?”
Band is currently playing
2019, see www.trh.co.uk
to his son and we had sit-down talks about
Mark muses, before laughing and saying: “A lot!
■ The
looking after each other, and about going out
I’d probably have a big sit down with myself!
Salford from January 16-26; the Grand
into the world! It has been a real pleasure.
But mostly I’d say just embrace it all; the ups
Theatre Swansea from January 29 to
Their energy is really positive and so they
and downs and left and rights.
February 2; Orchard Theatre Dartford
inspire us. It really does work both ways.”
THE WONDER OF HINDSIGHT The show sees the older women looking back at their younger selves and I’m curious
“Oh, and don’t have that first fag; don’t start
tour continues at The Lowry
from February 5-9; Regent Theatre
smoking. My thing is chocolate now. Don’t tell
Ipswich from February 12-16; New
anyone but I did eat some of my children’s
Victoria Woking from February 19-23;
Easter Eggs this year.”
Wolverhampton Grand from February
So what next for The Band – a second
26 to March 2; Milton Keynes Theatre
to know what advice, with the benefit of
tour? Gary gives me an enigmatic smile. “We
hindsight, the trio would give themselves at,
have plans because The Band is a musical that
from March 5-9, and Mayflower Theatre Southampton from March 12-16
say, 16. “I’d definitely advise my younger self
we believe in so much. By no means have we
■ Find
to take it all in and enjoy it,” says Howard.
reached our goal,” he teases. I’ll be watching
“We were literally lifted off our feet and for six
this space...
out more at thebandmusical.com
GTW
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
064-065 GTW Jan 19 Theatre review - The Band.indd 65
65
10/12/2018 11:41
See Thriller Live at the Lyric Theatre
Theatre LONDON
YOUR TRIP TO THE WEST END STARTS HERE – VISIT OUR SISTER SITE GROUPTRAVELOFFERS.COM FOR GROUP RATE TICKETS ALADDIN
Palace Theatre
Cambridge Theatre
Booking to: January 2019
Prince Edward Theatre
Booking to: July 2019
Booking to: October 2019
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
Booking to: June 2019
Times: Weds & Sat Part One
Times: Tues 19:00; Weds-Sat
Weds & Sat 14:30
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
14.00 & Part Two 19:30; Thurs
19:30; Weds & Sat 14:30hrs,
Thurs & Sat 14:30
Part One 19:30; Fri Part Two
Sun 15:00
19:30; Sun Part One 13.00,
THE BOOK OF MORMON Prince of Wales Theatre Booking to: December 2018
Part Two 18:30
LES MISÉRABLES
MOTOWN THE MUSICAL Shaftesbury Theatre Booking to: April 2019
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30,
Queen’s Theatre
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
Weds & Sat 14:30
Booking to: June 2019
Thurs & Sat: 15:00
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
THE COMEDY ABOUT A BANK ROBBERY Criterion Theatre
Weds & Sat 14:30
THE LION KING
PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Her Majesty’s Theatre
Booking to: November 2019
Lyceum Theatre
Booking to: March 2019
Times: Tues-Sat 19:30; Sat
Booking to: June 2019
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
14:30; Sun 15.00 & 19.00
Times: Tues-Sat 19:30,
Thurs & Sat 14:30
Weds, Sat & Sun 14:30
SCHOOL OF ROCK New London Theatre Booking to: October 2019 Times: Mon-Sat 19:30, Thurs & Sat 14:30; Sun 15:00
THRILLER LIVE Lyric Theatre Booking to: September 2019 Times: Tues-Fri 19:30; Sat 16:00 & 20.00; Sun 15:30 & 19:30
WICKED Apollo Victoria Booking to: May 2019
MAMMA MIA!
THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG
Booking to: January 2019
Novello Theatre
Duchess Theatre
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
Booking to: September 2019
Booking to: April 2019
Weds & Sat 14:30
Times: Mon-Sat 19:45;
Times: Tue-Sat 19:30; Sat
Thurs & Sat 15:00
14:30; Sun 15:00 & 19:00
MATILDA – THE MUSICAL
42ND STREET
Times: Mon-Sat 20:00;
Theatre Royal
Tues & Thurs 15:00; Sat 16.00
DREAMGIRLS Savoy Theatre
HARRY POTTER & THE CURSED CHILD (parts 1 & 2)
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30; Weds & Sat 14:30
THE WOMAN IN BLACK Fortune Theatre Booking to: July 2019
66 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
066_GTW Jan 19 London Listings hm.indd 66
10/12/2018 11:43
OPEN DAILY
FIND US ON
EASTER TO OCTOBER
Dedicated Groups Co-ordinator • Tea room • Gift shop • Group rates Guided tours • NEW Humphry Repton Exhibition and Tours
01525 290333 lisa.weaver@woburn.co.uk www.woburnabbey.co.uk J3644 WA Coach Tours UK ad 190x133_Dec17.indd 2
15/11/2017 13:25
GREAT GROUP DEALS AVAILABLE ON SPECTACULAR EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR
Call our groups team now on or email or search “The Ticket Factory Groups”
BIRMINGHAM INTERNATIONAL
TATTOO
THIS MORNING
LIVE
*calls cost 7p per minute plus standard network charges
TT000682 - Groups Half Page Ad_190x134_Dec'18_AW.indd 1
HP Template.indd 67
10/12/2018 11:59
14/12/2018 08:26
Touring theatre THE UK’S BEST MUSICALS AND SHOWS HAVE HIT THE ROAD. CATCH THEM ON TOUR HERE... Dr Dolittle is on tour, starring Mark Williams
Join Anton & Erin on tour
For group rate tickets to a range of West End theatre shows, call Harley in the GTW office on 01733 293249
Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag’s new dance production, Dance Those Magical Musicals, is touring the UK and Ireland in 2019. The show, set to music from the likes of Phantom of the Opera, Wicked and Jersey Boys – played by the London Concert Orchestra – also features fun interactive Q&A sections. Dates include... Royal & Derngate Northampton, January 25 Symphony Hall Birmingham, January 26 New Victoria Theatre Woking, January 27 New Theatre Oxford, February 1 Pavilion Theatre Bournemouth, February 2 Mayflower Theatre Southampton, February 3 n For
De Montfort Hall Leicester, February 7 Barbican London, February 9 and 14 York Barbican, February 15 St David’s Hall Cardiff, February 17 Hippodrome Bristol, Feb 18 Cliffs Pavilion Southend, February 21-22 G Live Guildford, February 23 Waterside Theatre Aylesbury, February 24
tickets and further tour dates see
SIMON TURTLE
www.raymondgubbay.co.uk or call 0844 847 2319.
The Band
DR DOLITTLE Oxford New Theatre: January 15-26 Wolverhampton Grand Theatre: January 29 to February 9
Hull New Theatre: February 26 to March 9 His Majesty’s Theatre Aberdeen: March 12-23
The Marlowe Canterbury: July 9-20 Glasgow King’s Theatre: July 23 to August 3 Wales Millennium Centre Cardiff: August 6-17
MATT CROCKETT
Newcastle Theatre Royal: February 12-23
Dublin Bord Gáis Energy Theatre: June 11-22
Mayflower Theatre Southampton: August 20-31 Blackpool Winter Gardens: September 3-14
Swansea Grand Theatre: January 29 - February 2
New Wimbledon Theatre London: September 17-28
Southampton Mayflower Theatre: March 12-16
Dartford Orchard Theatre: February 5-9
THE MIRROR CRACK’D
Nottingham Theatre Royal: April 9-20
Milton Keynes Theatre: October 8-19
Ipswich Regent Theatre: February 12-16
Salisbury Playhouse: February 15 to March 9
Sheffield Lyceum Theatre: April 23 to May 4
Birmingham Hippodrome: October 22 to November 2
Woking New Victoria: February 19-23
Dublin Gaiety Theatre: March 12-16
Festival Theatre Edinburgh: May 14-25
THE BAND
Wolverhampton Grand: February 26 - March 2
Cambridge Arts Theatre: March 19-23
Alhambra Theatre Bradford: May 28 to June 8
Salford The Lowry: January 16-26
Milton Keynes Theatre: March 5-9
New Theatre Cardiff: March 26 to April 6
Royal & Derngate Northampton: March 26 to April 6
68 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
068_GTW Jan 19 Touring Listings.indd 68
10/12/2018 11:45
HACKNEY EMPIRE presents
‘HAS A HEART AS BIG AS LONDON ITSELF’ Daily Telegra p
O TO ‘IF YOU ONLY GYOUR ONE PANTO IN IT LIFE, MAKE ALADDIN AT PIRE’ HACKNEY EnM ist
h
STAR CLIVE RING ROWE & TAME KA EMPS ON
Londo
The Times
Metro
The Stage
What’s On Stage
Evening Standard
Reviews Hub
Time Out
The Upcoming
Written & directed by
SUSIE McKENNA Original Music by
STEVEN EDIS Design by
LOTTE COLLETT Musical Director
MARK DICKMAN
Until HACKNEYEMPIRE.CO.UK 6 Jan 020 8985 2424 FP Template.indd 69
14/12/2018 08:24
TONY WRIGHT
Discover more about the age-old delights of the Bodleian Libraries, including the Radcliffe Camera
70 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
070-071 GTW Jan 19 Oxford.indd 70
10/12/2018 11:48
Days out
Oxford’s
finest From the ancient Bodleian Libraries to the gruesome castle prison, there’s never been a better time to tour this fascinating city
T
HE WORLD-FAMOUS BODLEIAN Libraries
hosted by the Hawkwell House Hotel
in Oxford showcased its group tours
(part of the Compass Hospitality group of
last month at a special event organised by
hotels) in nearby Iffley Village. A visit to
Steve Reed Tourism Ltd – with GTW’s
Blenheim Palace in the Cotswold village
Helen and Harley there to see for themselves
of Woodstock was also on the menu.
the historic heavyweights that make up Bodleian’s collection. The Divinity School,
SEE FOR YOURSELF...
Convocation House, Chancellor’s Court,
Guided group tours of the Bodleian Libraries
Duke Humfrey’s Library, the Radcliffe
are easy to arrange, with prices starting from
Camera, the Weston Library and the
£70 per group (maximum of 13 people,
historic quadrangles that sit on this ancient
please book at least two weeks in advance) for
site... all can be toured with an expert.
a 30-minute tour of the Divinity School and
The event also included tours of the
Duke Humfrey’s medieval library. Afternoon
Sheldonian Theatre, the Museum of the
tea and pastries can be added for £4.50 per
History of Science, and Oxford Castle and
person. To find out more call 01865 287400,
Prison, together with a City Sightseeing
email tours@bodleian.ox.ac.uk or visit
tour of Oxford, with some of the group
www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk
TONY WRIGHT
On board City Sightseeing
GET INVOLVED
The group in the Old School Quad at the Bodleian Libraries
Join Steve for his 2019 line-up of hosted events, including: ■ The Severn Valley Railway Group Showcase, from February 17-18 ■ The Torbay Devon Showcase, from March 26-28 ■ The Group Buyer Forum – South at Painshill Park in Surrey on April 29
■ Daish’s Holidays 40th anniversary in
the Isle of Wight, from October 2-6 ■ The Manchester Showcase and
Group Travel Forum – North at The Lowry in Salford Quays on October 14 Call Steve on 01420 560288, email steve@stevereedtourism.co.uk or visit www.stevereedtourism.co.uk
TONY WRIGHT
Tour the medieval Divinity School
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
070-071 GTW Jan 19 Oxford.indd 71
TONY WRIGHT
Einstein’s work on show at the Museum of the History of Science
71
10/12/2018 11:48
TYF ADVENTURE
Geronimo! Join the team who pioneered coasteering at the TYF Group in Pembrokeshire
72 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
072-074 GTW Jan 19 Extreme sports.indd 72
10/12/2018 11:49
Go wild
A leap of faith
From coasteering to white water rafting, make 2019 the year you really push your limits Words: Naomi Mackay
G
ET SET FOR the ultimate aquatic
2012 Olympics. You can choose to master the
adventure when you go coasteering.
white waters in a canoe, a hot dog (inflatable
Pioneered in Wales, it allows you to enjoy
kayak) or hydrospeed (a cross between a float
the scenery, spot some wildlife and tackle
and a bodyboard). Or go for the white water
the waves as you clamber from cliffs to
raft experience, which is great for groups and
rocks and jump in and out of the sea.
parties. You’ll be kitted out in wetsuits, helmets
The good folk at the TYF Group (tyf.com),
and buoyancy aids, then introduced to your raft
which pioneered the sport some 30 years ago,
guide who’ll help you navigate the drops and
call it Pure Ocean Play. Based in St David’s, you
eddies of the rapids.
can join them as part of a guided group on the beautiful Pembrokeshire coast.
WHITE WATER RAFTING
If you want to stay for a weekend, camp or glamp in cosy cocoons and cabins at Lee Valley Campsite, see gowhitewater.co.uk
Enjoy a quiet kayak down the river, but want
FREEDIVING
to step it up a gear? Find out how fast your
If you think about diving what do you picture
reactions are as the water pummels your canoe
– air tanks and masks? And what if you could
and the spray hits your face at Lee Valley White
dive down as far as 20m armed with nothing
Water Centre, just outside London. This is your
but you and a wetsuit? If this sound interesting,
chance to tackle the actual course used in the
sign up for a freediving course, right here in
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
072-074 GTW Jan 19 Extreme sports.indd 73
73
10/12/2018 11:49
Go wild
Make a splash at Lee Valley White Water Centre
the UK. Staying in a rectory-turned-B&B set
Paraglide to your heart’s content...
in countryside just outside Bath, Much Better Adventures run a two-day course to teach the art of freediving. Once you’ve learned some theory, you head out to an old quarry filled with fresh spring water, where you’ll get the chance to explore sunken boats and airplanes and a host of other weird and wonderful things. It’s suitable for those who already dive or snorkel as well as those with no experience. See muchbetteradventures.com
SKATING AND BMXING If you scoot, BMX, skate or skateboard, Europe’s largest urban indoor sports park is the place to visit. Professional scooter riders, such as Claudius Vertesi, often turn up to ride at Adrenaline Alley in Corby (adrenalinealley.co.uk). Groups get
there’s also a 250ft zip wire and a 160ft
discounted session rates and it’s possible
PowerFan descender.
to hire equipment for your visit.
BUNGEE JUMPING
PARAGLIDING Enjoy the fabulous scenery as you glide
Or you could combine paragliding with hiking and stand up paddle boarding – better known as SUPing – on a trip to Slovenia, with Much Better Adventures (muchbetteradventures.com).
How about tackling the world’s highest indoor
through the air, under a parachute. Active
bungee jump at The Abyss @ Magna. This
Edge (activeedge.co.uk) teaches the art of
Ljubljana, and head to the mountains for more
Paddle through the heart of the capital,
jump, run by the UK Bungee Jump Club
paragliding in stunning locations in the Yorkshire
SUP and hiking in the stunning valleys. Then
(ukbungee.co.uk), is housed at the Magna
Dales. The rolling hills and open moors offer
spend two days in wine country where you
Science Adventure Centre in Rotherham.
gentle slopes and unobstructed landscapes,
can hike, go caving and experience a tandem
If that’s not enough excitement for you,
which is ideal for beginners.
paraglide for an unforgettable trip.
GTW
74 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
072-074 GTW Jan 19 Extreme sports.indd 74
10/12/2018 11:49
STADIUM TOUR EPIC EXPERIENCE To other clubs, it’s just a stadium tour. For us, it’s giving you spine-tingling moments you’ll never forget.
Unmissable. Immersive. The LFC Stadium Tour. Book now at grouptours@liverpoolfc.com or call 0151 906 1817 Available in 9 languages
ع WE ARE LIVERPOOL. THIS MEANS MORE.
Calender-LFCTour-FullPage-Portrait.indd 1 FP Template.indd 75
03/12/2018 12/12/2018 12:04 20:07
Your association… ...your way. Join Travel World Association, supported by Group Travel World magazine, today – and enjoy a host of benefits
PIXABAY
Find out more at travelworld association.com
Wherever you’re heading in 2019, becoming a TWA member will help you get there
76 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
076-077 GTW Jan 19 TWA.indd 76
10/12/2018 11:51
Join TWA! Are you a group travel organiser? For just £29.99 a year you’ll get: ■ FREE
English Heritage and National Trust yearly passes ■ A FREE, exclusive GTO insurance policy from Wrightsure Insurance ■ A FREE half-hour consultation and discounted legal services from Fieldfisher ■ FREE annual subscription to GTW magazine ■ FREE London supplement ■ Discounted attraction tickets via grouptraveloffers.com ■ Exclusive fam trip invites ■ Networking opportunities ■ Discounted training days ■ Discounted marketing and PR services ■ Access and contact with TWA members This membership package is designed for individuals and GTOs working in the travel industry.
In the trade? For just £49.99 you’ll receive: ■ All
of the above, plus a FREE company listing on directory.grouptravelworld.com ■ A company listing on the Travel World Association’s members’ page ■ Access to the online noticeboard where members can fill spaces on trips
Are you a business? For just £199 a year you’ll get: ■ An
exclusive discount on company insurance with Wrightsure ■ A FREE half-hour consultation and discounted legal services from Fieldfisher ■ FREE annual subscription to Group Travel World magazine ■ FREE London magazine supplement ■ List your attraction tickets on grouptraveloffers.com ■ 10% off our fam trip hosting fee ■ FREE networking opportunities ■ Discounted training days ■ Access and contact to TWA members ■ Discounted marketing and PR services ■ FREE company listing on directory.grouptravelworld.com ■ FREE company listing on coachbuddy.com ■ Four FREE recruitment adverts on traveljobsworld.com ■ Company profile on our TWA members’ page in GTW magazine
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
076-077 GTW Jan 19 TWA.indd 77
77
10/12/2018 11:51
PIXABAY/IAN KELSALL
Snowdonia is home to around 250 lakes, pools and ponds. See snowdonia-attractions.com to plan your visit
78 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
078-080 GTW Jan 19 Wales.indd 78
10/12/2018 11:52
Wales
What lies beneath? Discover all wonderful Wales has to offer, from its lakes to its mountains
T
HE 870-MILE WALES Coast Path, which opened back in 2012, may have drawn yet more tourists to this glorious stretch of the British Isles, but there’s far more
to Wales than its stunning coastline, whether you’re heading over land or under it. From Britain’s steepest cable railway (at Llechwedd Deep Mine in Gwynedd) to the longest zip wire in Europe (at Zip World), the country doesn’t do things by halves. Turn the page for our pick of the Welsh gems you have to discover in 2019 – and if you fancy digging deep or speeding high in the sky, check out zipworld.co.uk and llechwedd-slate-caverns.co.uk to make it happen.
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
078-080 GTW Jan 19 Wales.indd 79
79
10/12/2018 11:52
Wales
of the
THREE best Ways to make your Welsh plans a reality
1
HIT THE RAILS
Finally, Llangollen Railway – one of North
While the manor’s firmly fixed in the 17th
The narrow gauge Welshpool & Llanfair
Wales’ most popular attractions – sits beside
century, the attraction’s visitor centre, gift
Light Railway in Powys offers a 16-mile return
the 14th century Dee Bridge in the centre of
shop, coffee lounge and restaurant are bang up
journey from the town of Welshpool to the
Llangollen town. It takes visitors on a relaxing
to date. Daytime and evening tours for up to
village of Llanfair Caereinion (see wllr.org.uk),
10-mile journey, travelling through the Dee
90 people can be arranged, and a range of
while the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland
Valley to the town of Corwen. Find out more at
catering options are also available.
Railways cross the glorious Snowdonia
llangollen-railway.co.uk
National Park, see festrail.co.uk The Gwili Railway operates a standard gauge line, from Bronwydd near Carmarthen along a short section (four miles) of the former
2
TRAVEL BACK IN TIME For a more traditional take on the
country’s history, explore the 16th century
Call 01443 412248 to find out more or visit your.caerphilly.gov.uk/llancaiachfawr – and for more on Caerphilly itself, which is home to Wales’ largest castle, see the website visitcaerphilly.com
Carmarthen to Aberystwyth railway. The line
Llancaiach Fawr Manor, overlooking the
follows the picturesque River Gwili, passing
Glamorgan uplands near Cardiff. This grade 1
alongside the Gwili Falls (gwili-railway.co.uk).
listed manor house is no ordinary heritage
While the historic Snowdon Mountain Railway,
attraction: here, the costumed servants of the
pictured above, re-opens in March, ready to
house are living and working in 1645 as the
of Conservation’ status: the Ceredigion
haul tourists to the summit. Plan your trip at
fires crackle, candles flicker, and the sounds and
Marine Heritage Coast. Plan your trip at
snowdonrailway.co.uk
smells of domestic life hit you as you walk in.
newquayboattrips.co.uk
3
GO DOLPHIN SPOTTING... ...with New Quay West Wales as you
cruise in waters nominated for ‘Special Area
GTW
80 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
078-080 GTW Jan 19 Wales.indd 80
10/12/2018 11:52
1 hour trips
Adults £10 Children £5
2 hour trips
Adults £16 Children £8
Whatever the weather, come rain or shine, Dolphin Spotting Boat Trips offer a fun, educational experience for all ages. The sole multi-passenger boat operator in Cardigan Bay sailing out of New Quay for over sixty years, we offer one and two hour trips on stable, purpose-built boats. Enjoy an unrivalled experience from start to finish, hop on board with us for a day you won’t forget! Our trips sail daily from April to October in the ‘Special Area of Conservation’, fully qualified 'boat master'skippers follow a code of conduct to allow you to spot dolphins without disturbance. Over 300 bottlenose dolphins have been recorded in our waters by the SeaWatch Foundation who monitor dolphins, harbour porpoise and atlantic grey seals while on board. With around 200 dolphins visiting in any year, essential activities such as feeding, socialising and nurture of their young can be spotted from our boats.
T 01545 560 800 / 01545 560 375 (evenings) W newquayboattrips.co.uk E info@newquayboattrips.co.uk Newquay Boat Trips FP.indd 81
12/12/2018 20:06
Tivoli Gardens has all year appeal with its mix of gardens, rides and musical events
The magic of Tivoli Tivoli Gardens is a must-visit gem in the heart of Copenhagen, as Sue Parslow discovers
T
a meal and simply enjoy the spectacle. The park’s winter opening for the month of February is part of city-wide winter celebrations that include the Copenhagen Light Festival, Frost Festival, which combines music concerts and light installations, and a jazz music festival – all aimed at helping residents and visitors alike get through the darkest months. Winter is the first of many special
HE GATES FOR Tivoli appear like an entrance to a fairytale world; even more
so when there are sprinkles of snow falling. For the first time in its 175-year history
For Winter in Tivoli, a new season in the
events to mark Tivoli’s big birthday.
attraction’s calendar, moving snowmen
These include a brand new ride named
welcome guests at the entrance. Inside
the Tik Tak and a new garden area.
there are white trees with sparkly mirrored
this, the world’s second oldest amusement
decorations, an ice rink, a child-sized igloo and
LIGHTING UP THE SKY
park, is celebrating winter. So it felt appropriate
penguin-themed fun. At night, the park is lit
Tivoli is Denmark’s most popular attraction,
that there was snow in the air on the day
with thousands of sparkly lights. Visitors can
with 4.6 million visitors in 2016. It is treasured
of my visit, making Tivoli Gardens feel as
enjoy a selection of rides, watch the resident
by the Danish, and only around one third of its
though a snow globe had come to life.
marching band on their nightly parade, have
visitors are tourists.
82 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
082-083 GTW Jan 18 Tivoli Gardens.indd 82
10/12/2018 11:57
Denmark The theatre is a listed building that dates from 1874, making it Tivoli’s oldest original building
While you’re there treat yourself to a Tivoli cake – a multilayered pastry first created in 1928. Tivoli Gardens celebrated its 175th birthday in 2018
Plan your visit at www.tivoli. dk/en/
The Demon roller-coaster ride
Tivoli’s original entrance was a simple wooden gate with a ticket booth on each side
The Tivoli experience includes rides and games, live music and ballet daily throughout the summer at the open-air stages, performances in several indoor venues, and attractive flower gardens. While cherished traditions include pantomime, The Tivoli Youth Guard marching band, the illuminations and weekly fireworks displays. Music fans love the Friday Rock series of concerts that begin every April (stars in
A LONDON LINK
previous years have included Tony Bennett,
Tivoli’s founder, Georg Carstensen, was
park inspired him to write his fairytale,
Lady Gaga and Elton John). And there’s an
inspired by European pleasure gardens,
The Nightingale.
unbelievable choice of places to eat: 23
including London’s Vauxhall Park.
restaurants, 14 fast food outlets, five bars and
When Tivoli Gardens opened on August
Walt Disney visited Tivoli both prior to and after opening his own amusement
two cafés, making it the biggest dining spot in
15 1843, Hans Christian Andersen was
park, Disneyland California in 1955, using
Copenhagen. There’s even a five-star award-
among the first guests and it is said that the
many of the elements he saw here.
GTW
winning boutique hotel with a restaurant, hidden within an Oriental-style palace façade. WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
082-083 GTW Jan 18 Tivoli Gardens.indd 83
83
10/12/2018 11:57
DANA@COHEN-PR.COM
Pura vida...
Adam Jacot de Boinod samples a sensual feast in magical Costa Rica
T
Very close by, down a discreet gravel lane, is a one-of-a-kind Villa Punto de Vista (villapuntodevista.com) where I was next to stay. This astonishing six-storey construction is the courageous and ambitious creation of David Konwiser, one of the family owners and the architect, who was born in Costa Rica and educated in America. The design makes optimum use of the dream views with angular windows
HE US POET Henry Longfellow once
on a table on the sand of Playitas Beach,
jutting out like ships’ prows over the ocean
said: “My soul is full of longing for the
in toe-touching reach of the ocean.
beyond. I looked out over the rocks and
secret of the sea, and the heart of the great ocean sends a thrilling pulse through me.” I too was mesmerised by the
I found an elemental joy in picking
on an iguana’s back, adding perfectly to
iguanas hung out by the pool, halloween
this ultimate jigsaw picture of a setting.
rhythmic natural symphony of the sea,
crabs scuttled through the gardens and
the moon and the clouds as I arrived
sloths slumbered in the treetops.
late at night at my first place to stay,
islands that speckled the sea like the scales
up an almond nut from its tree, while
I took a boat with Tres Ninas Tours
The dining is done on the fourth floor, partly for the greater vantage point, but also I realised, in order to be nature’s
(tresninastours.com), a full day trip as I got
look-out point, to be front row seats for
to look up at the houses in the hills and
the best show in the area, up with the
cuisine, exceptional levels of service and
the varieties of green landscape beyond
animals among the birds, monkeys and
exemplary eco credentials. It’s where
the beach. As the day went on so the light
sloths. One security you can’t legislate for
buggies go up and down the steep slopes,
changed, affording different hues in the
is the pickpocketing skills of the raccoons
one taking me to my tropical fruit breakfast
colour of the sea, from teal to lime green.
or the ‘monkey mafia’ as the locals call it.
Arenas Del Mar (arenasdelmar.com). In a sentence, the resort has delectable
84 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
084-086 GTW Jan 19 Costa Rica.indd 84
10/12/2018 11:59
Latin America
DANA@COHEN-PR.COM
Sloth-spotting is a Costa Rican sport
Glorious Punto de Vista was the creation of architect David Konwiser
Arenas Del Mar’s Playitas Beach
Explore with Tres Ninas Tours
THE PAPAGAYO PENINSULA
incorporating: ‘no worries’, ‘enjoy life’, ‘take
out over the water to the marina beyond.
I came next further up the Pacific coast to
it easy’, ‘good luck’ and ‘have a good day’.
The large square spacious room, the hub for
Guanacaste and the Papagayo peninsula.
Papagayo has a number of exquisite
A semicircle of large palm trees welcomed
beaches. Playa Nacascolo, which was once
me, along with a sculpture by Jorge Jiménez
an area of commerce in pre-Colombian
Deredia, who uses organic shapes that reflect
times, is the longest, while Playa Jicaro
across the bay with Elvision Adventure Tours
the country’s pre-Columbian heritage. These
is the most remote on the southern side.
(elvisionadventuretours.com). My charming
Diquis stone spheres in particular act as a
In the north, there’s Prieta Beach Club,
and uninvasive skipper guided me with great
timeless metaphor of Costa Rica’s deep-
a perfect day out with its Olas Lounge
serenity across the flat water towards the
rooted egalitarianism: seamless and edgeless
an ideal spot for lunch in front of waves
magical beaches of Playa Panama, Playa
and possessing a notion of wholeness.
strong enough for me to body surf.
Hermosa and the renowned Playa del Coco.
One of the longest running democracies in
I stayed at Vista Hermosa, Papagayo
the ancillary rooms, has a low ceiling and a horizontal feel replicating the landscape. I enjoyed a wonderfully calm boat trip
Latin America, Costa Rica is safe and peaceful.
Luxury (papagayoluxury.com). Bang in the
SIMPLY MAGICAL
It has had no wars for over 100 years, and
middle of the peninsula, this 10-year-old
The landscape of Costa Rica and her
there is no standing army. Possessed with
condo is part of the Las Terrazas complex
biodiversity is simply magical: thick lush
this openhearted spirit, some locals are
of 16 homes whose owners leave their
rainforests with their dense foliage, uncrowded
amazed to see guns when they go abroad.
properties wild around them to grant the
pristine beaches, steep mountains and
animals free movement. They are the work
majestic volcanoes and waterfalls; the perfect
life force. Several countries have an all-
of Costa Rican architect Ronald Zürcher, using
backdrop for the sheer wonder of the colourful
purpose word to cover our basic daily forms
terracotta walls both inside and outside to
birds and animals.
of interaction. In Hawaii there’s ‘aloha’, in Fiji
blend in with the natural surroundings and
there’s ‘bula’ and in Costa Rica there’s ‘pura
display a contemporary clean aesthetic.
‘Pura vida’ is the local expression of their
vida’. Literally translating as ‘pure life’ it spans the entire spectrum of greeting and parting,
The décor is stunning and eclectic. Tastefully done and respecting the overriding view
I even looked through the index of the definitive book on Costa Rican birds to find exquisite and exotic names like chestnutmandibled toucan and buffy tuftedcheek. WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
084-086 GTW Jan 19 Costa Rica.indd 85
85
10/12/2018 11:59
Latin America As for animals, I saw in another book the
the deep browns, oranges and reds of
misfit leaf frog, the bullet ant, the trumpetfish,
the soil and the roots of the land.
the beaubrummel (a fish) and the Jesus
The three main restaurants are all side-
GET ME THERE: ■ “The
Holiday Place, an ABTA and ATOL
by-side with the Añejo, an interesting Asian
tour-operator (020 7644 1770,
fusion with Costa Rican food: a casual and
holidayplace.co.uk) offers tailor-made
Resort Costa Rica (fourseasons.com/
informal restaurant both inside and out
holidays and tours to Costa Rica including
costarica). The bay side (Playa Blanca) and
offering tapas including salmon tostadas and
flights from London and other UK airports
ocean side (Playa Virador) have a different
charred tuna wonton tacos, ‘lomo salteado
plus accommodation and transfers from
feel and, I allowed myself to believe, almost
empanadas’ and ‘hamachi tiraditos’.
Christ lizard, so-called as it walks on water. My final place to stay was Four Seasons
£999 per person. ■ Adam
had further support
a different climate. Eco friendly electric
How resourceful, cunning and wondrous
buggies went at a relaxing speed and it
are the forces of nature here: the anona fruit
from gatwickexpress.com and
was such an important first scene as the
changes from green to a darkish reddish-
holidayextras.co.uk, who offer airport
rounded shape of the foyer was truly
brown as it ripens, the Indian tree sheds its
lounges at all major UK airports and
receptive and embraced me with its open
bark every three days, while one local species
many international destinations.
arms, luring me into its golden mosaic fold.
of grass contracts with human touch. Whales
■ To
The colours are consistent throughout
mate above a beach shaped like a whale’s tail.
ultravilla.com/villa-concierge, and
Not to mention all the tricks of camouflage.
to book Vista Hermosa at Papagayo visit
and blend organically with their natural surroundings. The earth-toned stucco
I couldn’t get enough of this
exteriors were computer-generated
delightful country. I have to go back;
from actual dirt samples to replicate
whenever, but soon.
book Villa Punto de Vista visit
ultravilla.com/papagayo-luxury
The view from Vista Hermosa, Papagayo Luxury
86 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
084-086 GTW Jan 19 Costa Rica.indd 86
10/12/2018 11:59
GTW Awards
Drum roll please…
Our GTW Awards celebrate the places that go the extra mile to make groups feel welcome, so meet this month’s winners A special GTW Award this issue goes to the historic city of Oxford, which welcomes groups yearround. Turn to page 70 to find out more.
BEST ATTRACTION
National Memorial
Arboretum Nominated by GTW’s Harley Denham
announced its range of ‘Days out with a
crowned Large Visitor Attraction of the Year by
and Emma Parkes, who headed here for a
difference’ for 2019, with a mix of new walks,
VisitEngland in 2018 – see the website for all
recent Steve Reed Group Buyer Showcase,
talks and tours, all designed to enhance
the details you need to plan your trip
Staffordshire’s National Memorial Arboretum
group visits, along with group discounts for
■ To
(NMA) is well worth a visit. And, to make it
its permanent and temporary exhibitions.
01283 245143 to order a copy of the 2019
even more special, the attraction has just
Already an award winner – the NMA was
groups pack or email groups@thenma.org.uk
BEST ATTRACTION
find out more visit thenma.org.uk, call
BEST GROUP TRAVEL PROVIDER
Curve Leicester
Travel Editions
Nominated by GTW’s Emma Parkes, who’s a regular theatergoer here,
Specialists in escorted tour holidays, the team at Travel
Leicester Curve clinches this month’s award for best group friendly attraction.
Editions are experts at putting together tours to suit your
“The Curve’s easy to get to and very close to High Cross shopping centre,
group’s interests, budget and needs. Tours can be tailor-
with loads of great places to eat,” says Emma. “The theatre’s very modern
made, and you can relax in the knowledge that all your
and smart: expect great bars, roomy seats and lots of easy
travel arrangements will be sorted by a knowledgeable
accessibility. I love it there.”
team who have years of experience. Whether you’re
■ Upcoming
heading to York for a short break, keen to explore the
shows include Ghost The Musical (from
January 29 to February 2) and To Kill a Mockingbird (from
delights of Tuscany, or heading further afield, the team
February 7 to 16). Find out more at curveonline.co.uk
will be able to ensure your trip’s a success. ■ Find
out more at traveleditions.co.uk
GTW
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
087 GTW Jan 19 GTW awards.indd 87
87
10/12/2018 12:07
OUR GIFT TO YOU!
NEXT 3 ISSUES FOR £5.99 5 OFF 0% COV
PRIC ER E
GROUP TRAVEL WORLD’S EDITOR
Helen Milbank… “Every month Group Travel World magazine brings you inspirational travel features, days out ideas and expert advice to help you plan your next trip, as well as regular competitions, crosswords and puzzles, travel news, celebrity interviews and more. Plus we can help you save money thanks to our new and exclusive ticket offers site, grouptraveloffers.com”
Subscribe in 3 easy steps Call Emma Parkes on 01733 293487 Email emma.parkes@grouptravelworld.com Visit www.grouptravelworld.com/subscribe GTW Subscriptions DPS Xmas Gift.indd 2
11/12/2018 11:37
SUBSCRIPTION OFFER
G CH
19 £3.99 January 20
SE
12
*JU ST PA YP OS TA GE
EP AG E
TR FR IFT TROISTMOUR AV EE YO AS EL GT U! MU W G*
ays
The best d
r families
olidays fo out and h
s
and group
5
you = friends + & mily the best fa s! group rate
LERT: CKETS A CHEAP TI yours until ok bo ’t Don ned this! you’ve scan
R DISCOVE HEVER CASTLE’S TUDOR HISTORY EXPLORE AUSTRIA, LAKE CE CONSTAN AND GEN COPENHA PLUS
16-PAGE LONDON GUIDE: WHAT’S NEW FOR 2019
eYew ha !
speedy Meet the er Zoo hest stars of C
Call 01733 293487 TERMS & CONDITIONS: This offer closes March 31st 2019. You will not receive a renewal reminder and recurring payments will continue to be taken unless you tell us otherwise. You will be billed £25 60 days after the first day of your trial, which will become recurring payment every year. 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.
GTW Subscriptions DPS Xmas Gift.indd 3
11/12/2018 11:37
Your travel questions answered by experts
A The team at Visit Angus
staying in working farms, with a staggering
(visitangus.com) say: When it comes to
range of camping and caravanning options too,
nature, Angus has a natural advantage, with
it’s a nature lover’s paradise. The county also
Q We want to get away from it all on a
unspoilt beaches and rolling hills and glens.
boasts a fair few history-makers, from Hugh
And we’ve launched a new series of travel blogs
Munro – who coined the name for a mountain
wildlife-spotting trip in the UK. Any ideas
to share why, when it comes to the outdoors,
over 3,000 feet high – to John ‘Jock’ Winter,
for a more quirky destination?
this region can’t be topped.
whose fight for the right to walk on an Angus
GROUP TRAVEL
Wild times
From birdwatching to bagging a Munro,
Angie Simon, via email
PIXABAY
SpareFare.net is a marketplace where travellers can resell flights, hotel reservations and package holidays
A Galena Stavreva, CEO of
Millions of people lose money on their unused
and package holidays. It offers fraud
travel bookings every year because they’re not
protection to both buyers and sellers and
aware of any safe and hassle-free ways to
dramatically reduces the risk of transferring
resell their reservations.
flights, hotel rooms and holidays to strangers by acting as an intermediary. Sellers are protected because they don’t
to be lost. There are secondary travel
change the name on the reservations or
marketplaces connecting people who have
pay the name change fees before SpareFare
bought flights, holiday packages or hotel
have received the money from the buyer.
rooms but can no longer use them, with people seeking discounted travel options.
A lost cause?
SpareFare.net is a marketplace where travellers can resell flights, hotel reservations
doesn’t mean all money paid for a trip has
GROUP TRAVEL
estate led to the Scottish Rights of Way Act.
SpareFare.net says: You’re not alone.
However, a non-refundable reservation
The idea is simple. If a traveller can’t go on a trip, due to an illness or other issue, there
VISIT ANGUS
Stags at Glen Esk in Angus
This way, sellers will never be left out of pocket due to buyers changing their mind at the last moment. Buyers are protected too, because
are marketplaces where they can sell the
SpareFare hold the money with them until the
Q I lost money earlier this year because
pre-paid hotel reservation to another traveller
date of the flight, or the check-in date of the
who is going to the same place at the same
hotel. This prevents sellers from reselling the
I couldn’t travel and had non-refundable
time. The sellers can recoup some of the
same ticket multiple times. This is very different
flights and hotel reservations. Is this
money they paid for the trips, while buyers
from selling or buying travel reservations
always the case?
get a true discount of up to 50-60% by not
on Ebay, where there is a significant trust
Jane Porter, Lincolnshire
paying the current price of the bookings.
issue between buyers and sellers.
90 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
090-092 GTW Jan 19 Q&As.indd 90
10/12/2018 12:10
PIXABAY
Q&A
A specialist group flight agent will take the hassle out of booking foreign trips GROUP TRAVEL
Support network
passports is always complicated. As we
you can be on dates – as this makes a huge
Q I’m taking a group to Tuscany in the
strengthen and extend our relationships
difference to the price.
autumn – should I book through a specialist
expertise, we continue to add value to group
out as possible to ensure the best rates and
group flight agent?
travel organisers.
availability. It is also key for groups to book as far
Lily McGregor, Ayrshire
with airlines, gain contacts and further our
This particular sector of the travel industry
We always advise groups to book as far
as possible in advance, as we have seen groups
ATahir Bhimani of the GTC Travel Group
is particularly hard to do purely through online
becoming far more adventurous and travelling
platforms as it depends on volume and contacts.
a lot more further afield than just Europe.
We worked initially with just one or two
There’s been a big growth in Asia and Africa, and
In a word, yes! We can offer price, speed and
airlines, and while we still primarily work with
groups need to be aware that we might need to
convenience. Because of the volumes we do,
the Lufthansa Group, we now work with a range
organise visas and that they need to advise their
we can negotiate the best prices in the market.
of airlines, including Swiss, Austrian Airlines,
delegates on medical requirements – such as
Our dedicated teams can sort out clients’
Brussels Airlines, Eurowings, Air France, KLM
malaria pills or jab requirements.
(gtctravelgroup.com) says:
requirements simply and quickly, and provide them with what they want immediately.
and Etihad.
It’s vitally important for groups to get the
My top tip for anyone planning a group
right kind of insurance for themselves as well.
trip is to contact us as soon as you know you
We offer flights only, so we offer groups the
stress out of booking. Co-ordinating large
need book a trip, and try to be precise with
maximum amount of flexibility for them to
numbers of personal requirements and
information such as numbers and how flexible
organise their own tailor-made requirements.
Similarly, we will take the organisational
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
090-092 GTW Jan 19 Q&As.indd 91
91
10/12/2018 12:10
Q&A
Proudly sponsored by the Royal Horticultural Society
RHS/JERRY HARPUR
The fruit and vegetable garden at RHS Garden Rosemoor
MEET OUR EXPERT
RHS Gardens and groups: the latest tips and practical advice from the RHS. Got a gardening question you’d like answered? Email groups@rhs.org.uk
Melissa Hackney is Groups
Sales & Marketing Manager at the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
Q I’m planning my veg patch for next year,
All our Gardens have fantastic kitchen
Q I’m trying to forget this dreary weather
have you got any tips for vegetables that will
gardens or fruit and vegetable gardens, which
by booking our group trip in May. What
grow through the winter?
might give you some inspiration, and the
would be looking good where?
Helen Adams, Bath
produce is brought from the gardens into
Hannah Newman, Oxted
A I’ve checked with our team at Wisley,
the kitchens of our award-winning cafés and restaurants. From Bath, you’re well placed for
and, as well as the usual brussels sprouts and
either Rosemoor in Devon, or Wisley in Surrey.
A May is a beautiful time to visit the
Gardens, as spring colour has really taken hold.
cabbages, they recommended kale, which would
If you’re going with a group, why not try
not only produce greens through the winter, but
booking a Gardens Expert Tour at Rosemoor
Oxted very easily. Wisley in May is glorious
also have the bonus of being ornamental. You
or a private garden tour at Wisley?
– the magnolia look amazing at that time of
could also try leeks, which can suffer a bit from
By doing this, you could have a
You could reach either Wisley or Hyde Hall from
year and there are beautiful blue camassisas on
frosts, but do tend to bounce back, as well as
special focus on these areas and get
Weather Hill. Hyde Hall is also lovely in May,
cauliflower or broccoli.
some real insider knowledge.
there are some really gorgeous euphorbias there, which as well as being bright in their own right, also contrast really well and help to
Q When our group visited Wisley we
The Alpine House at Harlow Carr
were inspired by the alpines. Are your other
accentuate the colour of other flowers, such as Iris. Both gardens have a Spring Craft Fair at the
gardens good for these as well?
beginning of the month, and Hyde Hall also has
David Williams, Rugby
a Spring Plant Fair at the end of April.
A That’s great to hear and yes, we do have
of events. Look on our website for more
recommend trying the Alpine House at RHS Garden Harlow Carr in Yorkshire. We have a fabulous 80ft Alpine House there, which not only has a wonderful view over the surrounding woodland from its location at the top of the valley, but also is a valuable setting for many different specimens. If you’re really keen, there is even a special
RHS/BETHANY CLARKE
alpine areas at our other gardens. I would
All our gardens have a year-round calendar details, or send off for our guide: ‘Where Inspiration Grows’.
Experience the ultimate gardening day out with the RHS at its four gardens They can actually be grown from seed this month, as they need a period of cold to break the seed dormancy. You can either
Alpine Weekend next year from October
place a sheet of glass over the sown area
12-13 at Harlow Carr. If you fancy growing
to protect it from getting too wet, or some
some in your own garden, there are plenty
people have had success starting the seeds
of ideas on our website – www.rhs.org.uk
off in the fridge, ready for sowing next spring.
090-092 GTW Jan 19 Q&As.indd 92
– RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey; RHS Garden Harlow Carr in North Yorkshire; RHS Garden Hyde Hall in Essex and RHS Garden Rosemoor in North Devon. See rhs.org.uk/groups or email groups@rhs.org.uk
GTW
10/12/2018 12:10
Group Travel World - DT Entertainment Lunches - FP Dec 2018_Layout 1 14/11/2018 14:45 Page 1
N EfoW r
2019
Entertainment Lunches FOR GR O U P S A N D I N D I V I D U A L S
EXCL
USIV E TO GREA T D AY S
Music Hall at The Monastery
No Minimum Numbers
£ 3 5 .00 per person
10.30am Doors open. 10.45am Coffee and biscuits in the Great Nave. 11.00am Welcome talk – The Monastery’s Journey From Ruin to Restoration. 11.30am First half of the show. 12.30pm Three-course lunch (set menu). 2.00pm Best dressed guest and charity raffle. Then it’s on with the show! 3.00pm Farewell and Carriages.
n
Manchester - Tuesday 23rd April
n
Manchester - Monday 20th May
Includes: • Arrival tea/coffee and biscuits • Welcome talk on the Monastery • 3 course lunch with tea/coffee (set menu) • 2 hours variety show FOR INDIVIDUALS PLEASE BOOK ONLINE
www.greatdaysholidays.co.uk
Individual bookings made by phone will incur an additional fee of £5 per person. Bookings made on-line do not incur any additional fees.
Mamma Mia Summer Show Party
No Minimum Numbers
11.00am Arrive for coffee and biscuits. 11.30am Mamma Mia - here we go again! The entertainment begins followed by a topical quiz. 12.30pm A three-course lunch will be served (set menu). from
£27.50 per person
2.00pm
3.00pm
Best dressed competition and raffle draw, then on with the show. Farewell and Carriages.
n
Yorkshire - Tues 4th, Wed 5th June
n
Chester - Wed 12th June
n
Lancashire - Wed 18th September
n
Cheshire - Tue 24th, Wed 25th September
n
Essex - Tue 18th, Wed 19th June; Wed 4th, Thu 5th September
n
Kent - Fri 28th June; Thu 12th, Fri 13th September
Includes: • Welcome tea/coffee and biscuits; 90 minutes with our popular entertainment duo; 3 course lunch with tea/coffee (set menu).
Celebrating The Carpenters
No Minimum Numbers
11.00am Arrive for coffee and biscuits.
n
Chester - Thursday 13th June
n
Lancashire - Tuesday 17th September
11.30am First half of the show.
n
Kent - Thursday 27th June
12.30pm A three-course lunch will be served (set menu). 2.00pm
Raffle draw, then on with the show!
3.00pm
Farewell and Carriages.
from
£27.50 per person
Includes: • Welcome tea/coffee and biscuits • 90 minutes with our popular entertainment duo • 3 course lunch with tea/coffee (set menu)
JOIN US FOR
The Christmas Beatles Show Party Lunch 2019 S E E W E B S I T E F O R DAT E S A N D P R I C E S F O R G R O U P S O F 1 0 O R M O R E P L E A S E C O N TA C T O U R S A L E S T E A M
T: 0161 928 3242
| E: sales@greatdays.co.uk | www.greatdays.co.uk
Prices exclude coach hire. Dates subject to availability and can change without prior notice.
FP Template.indd 93
12/12/2018 19:55
Over to you
We want to hear from you!
Write, Facebook, Tweet or email helen.milbank@grouptravelworld.com V&A DUNDEE/HUFTONCROW
The multi-million pound V&A Dundee is Scotland’s first design museum
STAR LETTER
Designer collection I enjoyed Sue Parslow’s feature on the new
Sue’s right too that Dundee is one of the
V&A Dundee is free to enter and open
V&A Dundee last issue. It really is a great place
sunniest cities in Scotland – we went in
daily from 10am to 5pm. From 2019,
to visit, with some fantastic exhibitions on
November and the sun shone all weekend!
it will offer group bookings for talks and
show. We particularly loved the magnificent
Liz Martin, East Yorkshire
guided tours of the building and galleries,
Charles Rennie Mackintosh Oak Room, which,
and discounts on paid-for tickets for
we soon learned, has been restored, conserved
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR: Glad you
exhibitions will be available for groups of
and reconstructed having been lost to view
enjoyed the feature, Liz, and for anyone
10 or more. Find out more at vam.ac.uk/
for nearly 50 years.
who hasn’t yet been, can I just add that
dundee
A journey into space
We love... ...this shot of Georgie Milbank and her grandad Clive on
I’m just back from an outing to Jodrell
board the Albatros, which is
Bank Observatory in Cheshire. What a
moored in Wells-next-the-
place: a series of expert talks and demos
Sea harbour in Norfolk. The
are on offer for visitors, and we’re now
former Dutch cargo ship is
experts on space dust as a result!
now a floating bar, restaurant,
There’s loads of free parking, and
music venue and B&B that
any children in your party will love the
serves everything from
interactive displays.
pancakes to real ales. Great
For just £8 for adults it’s great value,
for small (agile!) groups
and we combined it with a trip to Chester
– as the steps down into
for some Christmas shopping (find out
the bar are steep – it’s great
more at www.jodrellbank.net).
for families too. Find out
Lucy Leadbetter, Denbighshire
more and plan your visit at albatroswells.co.uk
94 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
094-095 GTW Jan 19 Readers' letters hm.indd 94
10/12/2018 16:56
Your shout MINI BOOK REVIEW
Longleat’s Festival of Light runs until January 6, see longleat.co.uk/ festival-of-light
Celebrating Diversity
Price: £14.99 From: all good bookshops, or amazon.co.uk
Festive fun From Christmas fairs to festive markets, it
■ June
seems you’ve been busy this month, mulled
and I went with Shaws of Maxey to Norwich.
wine in hand...
We had a fantastic day out, were picked up
■ Evie
from the top of our road, and the city’s a great
Sleight says: “Longleat’s Festival of Light
is just amazing.” ■ Guy
Barnsby says: “Waddesdon Manor’s
Mansfield says: “My husband Clive
place to walk round. Fares were only £12 each. Bargain!”
Christmas Fair in Buckinghamshire was
■ Danielle
fantastic this year. Definitely worth a trip.”
Christmas at the Castle. Lovely place to visit.”
Ribeiro says: “We enjoyed Hever’s An inspiring anthology that celebrates the diversity of the people around us and what makes us all unique, this book features
Fly past
a number of authors, including artist and GTW favourite, Roland Burt.
Loving your latest series of posters
■ To
showing the Red Arrows. They’re all up
his artwork see djiboart.co.uk
find out more about Roland and
on my office wall! Steve Lamb, Surrey
Keep in touch... We want to hear from you! Write to: Group Travel World magazine, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX Email: helen.milbank@ grouptravelworld.com A WORD FROM THE EDITOR: Our pleasure, Steve! And turn to page 57 JONATHAN SMITH
to see our new poster collection, which kicks off in style with Longleat Safari Park’s gorgeous cheetah cub.
Christmas cheer Thanks to the team at the four-day Burghley Christmas Fair at Burghley House in Lincolnshire, who put on a fantastic event. Car parking was just £5 and admission was free, the mulled wine was flowing and GTW’s Harley Denham and Emma Parkes were there to sample it! For more on
Advertising query? Call Julie Cousins on 01733 293242 Subscription query? Emma Parkes is here to help. Call her on 01733 293487 Need attraction & show tickets? Call Harley on 01733 293249 Visit www.grouptravelworld.com follow Facebook.com/ grouptravelworld and see us on Twitter @GTWMagazine GTW
this historic stately home and its year-round calendar of events, see burghley.co.uk WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
094-095 GTW Jan 19 Readers' letters hm.indd 95
95
10/12/2018 16:56
And finally Amsterdam: famed for its canals and the only city where bikes outstrip people
ENJOY A WEEKEND IN...
Amsterdam A
MSTERDAM RESIDENTS OFTEN refer
tends to be a relaxed and good natured affair.
to their city as a village. Why? Because,
Amsterdam is also an eminently walkable
Keep an eye out for locals on bikes with yellow-coloured luggage racks – they’ll pull over and give you a lift if you call out “Backie” to them!
superb. The eerily moving Anne Frank House, home of the eponymous diarist and her illfated family, is unmissable too.
despite the fact it boasts an array of jaw-
city, with most of the city’s key sights and
dropping cultural treasures and buzzes with an
attractions within strolling distance of the
edgy and contemporary vibe, Amsterdam is
compact city centre. And with more canals to
being a quirky city, so why not explore one
small enough to retain a suitably modest and
crow about than Venice, an extended saunter
of the city’s more eccentric museums while
manageable feel.
alongside the city’s waterways is a definite
you’re here? Certainly an afternoon spent
highlight. Herengracht, a beautiful stretch of
nosing around the Torture Museum,
by the cute step-gabled buildings, picturesque
canal flanked by attractive, opulent buildings
Funeral Museum or Sex Museum will live
bridges and peaceful, never-ending canals for
should be at the top of any Amsterdam
long in your memory. The Museum Vrolik,
which the city is so famed. For sure, knowing
walking wishlist. A casual (but not too casual)
renowned for its collection of human
that you can be the only person strolling along
stroll around the city’s notorious Red Light
malformations (many pickled in jars), is
a meandering waterfront path, yet be just five
district is unforgettable experience too, though
something of an eye-opener as well.
minutes’ walk from the lively city centre is a
for entirely different reasons.
Of course, this quaint ambience is espoused
big part of what gives this alluring city such immediate charm. WORDS: DARREN CALPIN
MAKE LIKE A LOCAL...
Of course, Amsterdam is known for its
However, Amsterdam is also known for
GET ME THERE
myriad world-class museums. In fact, Thanks
Getting to Amsterdam is easier than ever now
And unlike most other European cities,
to its diminutive size, the city is believed to
that Eurostar runs a direct route from London.
getting around Amsterdam can actually be a
offer more culture per capita than any other
In addition, hopping on the Eurostar can also
joy. Cycling is far and away the preferred way
city in the world. Naturally, big hitters like the
work out well for those travelling in groups
of moving from A to B and, even though it
Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum and Stedelijk
as discounts are often proffered.
often looks like the world and his wife is on
Museum are absolute must-sees as their
two wheels here, pedal-powered sightseeing
collections of world-class works are simply
Call 0344 822 4800 or email groups@ eurostar.com to find out more.
GTW
98 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
098 GTW Jan 19 And finally.indd 98
10/12/2018 12:12
Living the nation’s history since 1348
“A real hidden gem, steeped in history and an oasis right in the heart of London” Tripadvisor
Free museum • Gift shop • Daily guided tours • Groups welcome Discover the fascinating and turbulent history of this beautiful unique site in central London which has served as a monastery, Tudor mansion, boys’ school and an almshouse, which it remains to this day. Open Tuesday – Sunday The Charterhouse, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6AN Quote GTW T 020 3818 8873 E tours@thecharterhouse.org
FP Template.indd 99
12/12/2018 20:09
London 2019
Make a bang!
As we usher in 2019, there’s never been a better time to explore the UK’s much-loved capital.
I
T’S HOME TO the tallest building in Western Europe (The Shard, at 306m tall), the world’s best chefs (think
Jamie Oliver, Marco Pierre White et al), a number of royal palaces, acres of parkland, ancient buildings, an iconic river and world-class attractions and museums. So make this the year you explore London to the full and discover its many hidden and not-so hidden gems...
16-page London special
100 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
100 GTW Jan 18 London section welcome.indd 100
10/12/2018 12:13
Meet the Household Cavalry A gem in the very heart of ceremonial London
Meet the Household Cavalry
Meet the you’ve –– your your secret secret entrance entrance to to aa famous famous building building you’ve always always wanted wanted to to explore... explore... with with daily daily guard guard changes changes and andHousehold garrison garrison inspections. inspections. We We house house the the best best items items from from one one of of the the world’s world’s finest finestCavalry regimental regimental collections, collections, offer offer aa window window into into the the workling workling regimental regimental stables stables and and reveal reveal some some fantastic fantastic stories. stories.
Meet the Household Cavalry
A gem in the very heart of ceremonial London
– your secret entrance to a famous building you’ve always wanted to explore... with daily guard changes and garrison inspections. We house the best items from one of the world’s finest regimental collections, offer a Groups Groups rates rates available. available. Ask Ask us us about about ourworking new newregimental multi-venue multi-venue tickets. tickets. window into our the stables and reveal some fantastic stories.
Groups rates available. Ask us about our new multi-venue tickets.
A gem in the very heart of ceremonial London Open daily from 10am
gem in the very heart of ceremonial London – your secret entrance to a famous building you’ve always wanted to explore... Open dailyA from 10am The Theand Household Household Cavalry Cavalry Museum, Museum, Horse Horse Guards, Guards, Whitehall, Whitehall, London. London. with daily guard changes garrison inspections. We house the –best youritems secret entrance to a famous building you’ve always wanted to explore... The Household Cavalry Museum, with Horse Guards, Whitehall, London. daily guard changes and garrison inspections. We house the best items from one of the world’s finest regimental collections, offer a window into the Tel: Tel: 020 020 7930 7930 3070 3070 Tel: 020 7930 3070 from one of the world’s finest regimental collections, offer a window into the workling regimental stables and reveal some fantastic stories. workling regimental stables and reveal some fantastic stories.
www.householdcavalrymuseum.co.uk
www.householdcavalrymuseum.co.uk Groups rates available. Ask us about our new multi-venue tickets.
Groups rates available. Ask us about our new multi-venue tickets.
A gem in the very heart of ceremonial London
Open daily from 10am
Open daily from 10am
The Household Cavalry Museum, Horse Guards, Whitehall, London. Tel: 020 7930 3070
– your secret entrance to a famous building you’ve always wanted to explore The Household Cavalry Museum, Horse Guards, Whitehall, London. with daily guard changes and garrison inspections. We house the best items Tel: 020 7930 3070 from one of the world’s finest regimental collections, offer a window into the www.householdcavalrymuseum.co.uk workling regimental stables and reveal some fantastic stories.
www.householdcavalrymuseum.co.uk See London by Night can offer private live guided tours of London not only in the evening but during the days as well.
Groups rates available. Ask us about our new multi-venue tickets.
A gem in the very heart of ceremonial London
We have fixed packages that are ideal for groups Open daily from 10am your secret which–are available 365 entrance to a famous building you’ve always wanted to explore... The Household Cavalry Museum, Horse Guards, Whitehall, London. days of the year. If you with daily guard changes and garrison inspections. We house the best items Tel: 020 7930 3070 don’t need a guide, we are happy provide fromtoone of just the world’s finest regimental collections, offer a window into the transport on one of our workling regimental stables and reveal some fantastic stories. open top yellow buses.
www.householdcavalrymuseum.co.uk
Contact info@seelondonbynight.com for more imformation
HP Template.indd 101
12/12/2018 20:27
Polo comes to London: hone your skills in 2019 with Polo Experiences
102 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
102-104 GTW Jan 19 London feature.indd 102
10/12/2018 12:14
London 2019
Chukkas away! From polo to Parliament we reveal London’s quirkier side Words: Angela Youngman
of eight or more get a 10% discount, see householdcavalrymuseum.co.uk
Parliament on a special guided tour – available
THE SKY’S THE LIMIT
for both groups and families – with the added
The RAF Museum at Hendon opened its
option of afternoon tea or a self-guided
new-look site in 2018 as part of the RAF
audio tour. You’ll find all the details online
100 centenary project. This multi-million
at parliament.uk
pound transformation includes new, innovative
BE A TROOPER
POLO. IN LONDON?
on public display for the first time. Groups
galleries exploring the first 100 years of the RAF, from the development of the iconic Merlin
Experience first-hand accounts of the troopers’
engine, which powered the Spitfire, to the role
We kid you not. London City’s new Polo
rigorous and demanding training at The
of Rolls Royce and Air Commodore Sir Frank
Experience teaches you the basic rules of the
Household Cavalry Museum, with interactive
Whittle. Paths around the site emulate evening
game, how to use a polo mallet and sit in the
displays and stunning rare objects – many
landing lights, and the story of the RAF and
saddle, before you try on all the gear and have a go for yourself – on a real life polo pony! Bring eight or more friends and you, as
The RAF Museum Hendon’s new-look site is now open
chief organiser, will get in half price (take 10 people and you’ll get in free). You’ll be riding in a fully covered arena, five miles from Canary Wharf and within the 2012 Olympic Games area, so rain needn’t stop play, see poloexperiences.com
SIT IN THE HOUSE Explore the world-famous Houses of
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
102-104 GTW Jan 19 London feature.indd 103 HP Template.indd 103
13/04/2018 12:25
10/12/2018 08:30 12:14 14/12/2018
London 2019
The London Mithraeum
the people who’ve served in its ranks are
chanting long-dead rituals. Artefacts found
Nature’ (until January 2019) explores the links
told as never before. Entry’s free, see
during archaeological excavations of the
between fashion and nature from 1600 to
rafmuseum.org.uk
site can also be seen, including the first
the present day, looking at the environmental
ever handwritten documents from the first
impact of fashion. Free to visit, see vam.ac.uk
WHAT DID THE ROMANS DO FOR US?
(together with an IOU!). Entry’s free and expert
ANYONE FOR TENNIS?
You can find out in 2019, as tucked away
guides provide tours to booked groups. See
Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum’s award-
under Bloomberg’s HQ in the City of London is
londonmithraeum.com
winning behind-the-scenes tours are the
the London Mithraeum. Originally discovered in
ideal way to see this world-famous ground.
the aftermath of World War Two, this Roman
SUITS YOU...
structure was moved and displayed elsewhere,
The V&A has a number of major exhibitions
goes on behind the scenes in the Broadcast
but has now returned to its original site.
running throughout 2019 with a focus on
Centre. Visit areas normally reserved for the
fashion. ‘Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams’
players and media, and experience the views
through time as columns of light rise out
runs from February until July, tracing the history
from the members’ balcony before finishing
of the darkness to create a 3D replica of
and impact of one of the 20th century’s most
your visit in Centre Court. Plan your trip at
the original temple, complete with voices
influential couturiers. While ‘Fashioned from
bookings.wimbledon.com
Stepping down the stairs is truly walking JAMES MARTIN
century AD mentioning the name of London
Discover how the site is cared for and what
104 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
102-104 GTW Jan 19 London feature.indd 104
10/12/2018 12:14
ROYAL OPERA HOUSE TOURS BACKSTAGE TOUR Visit Backstage at one of the world’s leading theatres COVENT GARDEN LEGENDS AND LANDMARKS TOUR Step back into history and discover about the Royal Opera House and the legends of London’s Theatre Land in and around Covent Garden PRODUCTION PARK TOUR Discover the fascinating world of the craftspeople who create stunning costumes, scenery and sets VELVET, GILT AND GLAMOUR TOUR Enjoy a 45 minute tour of the auditorium BOOK TODAY Group rates available +44(0)20 7304 4002 Group catering quotes restaurants@roh.org.uk roh.org.uk/tours
105 FP Template.indd 115
12/12/2018 11:28 20:27 10/10/2018
London 2019
Make waves
Take a quick hop across the Thames in style...
MBNA THAMES CLIPPERS
London Cruises take you past the Houses of
Tower Pier and Greenwich Pier.
You’ll have seen their distinctive red, white
Parliament, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of
See citycruises.com
and blue boats criss-crossing the Thames, and
London and other major landmarks while you
MBNA Thames Clippers run a busy service,
tuck into the delicious fare, accompanied by
THAMES RIB EXPERIENCE
ferrying tourists from Battersea Power Station
live music. See bateauxlondon.com
Hailed as the ultimate boat experience,
to London Bridge. Groups of 10 or more get
choose from a number of high-speed chases
a discount (see the website for details) and
CITY CRUISES
hop-on hop-off day tickets are great value at
Opt for lunch, dinner or afternoon tea as you
Blast at the O2 to the 75-minute Thames
around £16. See thamesclippers.com
travel the river with City Cruises, or simply
Barrier Experience. Or make like Bond and
hop on board for a sightseeing tour. Great
jet down the Thames on a speedy transfer
value (with prices from £10 for a hop-on,
(think water taxi on steroids). Groups can
Famous for their lunches, dinners and
hop-off 24-hour Riverpass ticket), boats
hire an entire boat, or buy single tickets. See
afternoon tea packages on the water, Bateaux
leave from Westminster Pier, London Eye Pier,
thamesribexperience.com
BATEAUX LONDON CRUISES
along the Thames, from the 20-minute Rib
GTW
106 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
106 GTW Jan 16 River trips.indd 106
10/12/2018 12:15
SEE FURTHER THAN THE EYE CAN SEE
• London’s highest viewing platform • 800ft above the ground • Unwind with a glass of champagne • Stay as long as you wish Special rates for groups of 10+ plus free leader places 0844 499 7111 reservations@theviewfromtheshard.com www.theviewfromtheshard.com
FP Template.indd 107
12/12/2018 21:27
London’s
calling
ince its launch in 2017, The Postal Museum in London has proved a huge
hit. Discover the delights of cryptic Victorian Valentine’s Day cards, an encounter with a lion on Salisbury Plain and even the odd pistol that’s come through the post. Try a mail coach game, see superb examples of 20th century graphic art, and find out about the development of the world’s first adhesive stamp, which transformed the way letters and parcels were sent. It’s even possible to ride the Mail Rail miniature train through underground tunnels. See postalmuseum.org
PIXABAY
From botanical gardens to sky-high walks, there’s never been a better time to explore the city
S
108 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
108-109 GTW Jan 19 London.indd 108
11/12/2018 14:11
London 2019 tucked away on the banks of the River
Friday, April to October. The Tangerine
and more overground – 52 metres above
For an attraction that’s less underground,
Thames is London’s oldest botanical
Dream Café can also be booked for
ground, to be precise – explore Up at The 02
garden, with guided tours on offer taken
groups. Find out more and plan your
(theo2.co.uk). ). There’s no lift, no escalator,
by knowledgeable volunteer guides.
visit at chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk
and no-one to carry you: it’s known as urban
The Chelsea Physic Garden’s unique
Finally, the Museum of Brands in
mountaineering, and if you fancy testing your
microclimate allows the gardeners to
Notting Hill is a wonderful step back in
head for heights you’ll ascend all the way to
grow plants not normally found outside
time, exploring how our consumer society
the top of The O2 via a walkway, suspended
in the UK, including the largest fruiting
has evolved since Victorian times.
52m above ground level (kitted out with your
olive tree. This is also the location of a
climb suit, boots and harness, we hasten to
unique living collection of more than 5,000
at their own pace, enjoy an introductory
add). One way to see the views, we guess!
edible, useful and medicinal plants that
talk and take the museum quiz, while
have had a major impact on the world.
the museum’s café serves up a treat.
BOTANICAL DELIGHTS Back to more relaxing pursuits, and
Special guided tours are available for groups of 10 or more, from Tuesday to
Groups are welcome to tour the museum
Find out more and plan your visit at museumofbrands.com
GTW
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
108-109 GTW Jan 19 London.indd 109
109
11/12/2018 14:11
London 2019
Anyone for tea? London hotspots to dine in style...
Expect sword-fighting knights to entertain you while wenches dance the night away at this medieval feast set in the historic St Katharine Docks. Dine like it’s the 10th century – with the chance to get in costume to really feel the part. Special offers for groups are available and on select nights
There’s so much to see and do at Kew
treats. A tour of the iconic building will complete
six diners can eat for the price of four, see
Gardens, London’s largest UNESCO World
your visit, see royalalberthall.com
medievalbanquet.com
The Botanical, in the heart of the Gardens, with
Inspired by the glitz and glamour of
Hailed as London’s biggest and best Irish
views of the Palm House and lake. Although
tinseltown, Planet Hollywood on London’s
bar, Waxy’s London in the West End is a
there’s no group discount for afternoon tea,
Haymarket has become a phenomena since its
labyrinth of four unique bars over six levels,
groups can benefit from a discount on entry
1991 launch with the backing of Hollywood
serving food and drink, with live music four
into the gardens, see kew.org
megastars Sylvester Stallone, Bruce Willis,
nights a week, see waxyoconnors.co.uk
Heritage Site, including afternoon tea served in
Arnold Schwarzenegger and Demi Moore. Over at London’s Royal Albert Hall
Now, groups of all sizes are welcome, see
Based in Old Park Lane in the upmarket
groups have the option to experience a live
planethollywoodlondon.com
Mayfair district, the historic Hard Rock
performance by an opera singer while they
Cafe London has been a hit with locals and
enjoy afternoon tea in the elegant Verdi
Enjoy an evening of delicious food, cocktails
tourists alike since the early 1970s. Expect
restaurant. Voted in the top 10 of best
and entertainment at the glamorous London
good food, good entertainment and many
afternoon tea venues in London, groups of 10
Cabaret Club in Bloomsbury Square, with James
a group-friendly event, from a cocktail
or more can take advantage of special rates
Bond-inspired shows, the Best of British Pop
masterclass to special dining experiences,
on freshly made sandwiches, cakes and sweet
and more, see thelondoncabaretclub.com
see hardrock.com/cafes/london
GTW
Kew Gardens’ The Botanical
110 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
110 GTW Jan 19 London Restaurants.indd 110
10/12/2018 12:16
AWARD WINNING GROUP DINING
The Thames Barrier On the River Thames, view one of London’s iconic structures from our grounds
FOR ALL YOUR LONDON GROUPS
Visit our exhibition and CafĂŠ. Groups can pre book a group talk or an educational package with our guides. Call or visit us online for more details and opening times 0208 305 4188 www.gov.uk/the-thames-barrier
iÂ?ˆVÂˆÂœĂ•Ăƒ ÂŤĂ€i‡>VÂŽi` “i>Â?Ăƒ vÂœĂ€ }Ă€ÂœĂ•ÂŤĂƒ œ˜ ĂŒÂ…i }Âœ Ă€ii `iÂ?ÂˆĂ›iÀÞ ĂŒÂœ ViÂ˜ĂŒĂ€>Â? œ˜`œ˜ ivÂœĂ€i n>“ 7i Â…>Ă›i Lii˜ ÂŤĂ€ÂœĂ›Âˆ`ˆ˜} > Ă€>˜}i Âœv …ˆ}Â… ¾Õ>Â?ÂˆĂŒĂž vĂ€iĂƒÂ…Â?އ ÂŤĂ€iÂŤ>Ă€i` Ă›>Ă€Âˆi` Ă•Â˜VÂ… *>VÂŽĂƒ >˜` Ă€i>ÂŽv>ĂƒĂŒ *>VÂŽĂƒ vÂœĂ€ ĂŒÂœĂ•Ă€ ÂœÂŤiĂ€>ĂŒÂœĂ€Ăƒ] >˜` vÂœĂ€ ÂœĂ€}>Â˜ÂˆĂƒi` ĂŒÂœĂ•Ă€ }Ă€ÂœĂ•ÂŤĂƒ ĂƒÂˆÂ˜Vi £™™™° Ă•Â˜VÂ… ÂŤ>VÂŽĂƒ vĂ€ÂœÂ“ Â?Ă•ĂƒĂŒ Ă‹{°nä ,iĂƒĂŒ>Ă•Ă€>Â˜ĂŒ LœœŽˆ˜}Ăƒ ˆ˜ >˜` >Ă€ÂœĂ•Â˜` œ˜`œ˜ Ă€ÂœĂ•ÂŤ ,iĂƒĂŒ>Ă•Ă€>Â˜ĂŒ LœœŽˆ˜} vĂ€ÂœÂ“ Â?Ă•ĂƒĂŒ Ë£Ó°ää vÂœĂ€ ĂŽ
ÂœĂ•Ă€Ăƒi >˜` Ă€ÂˆÂ˜ÂŽ œ˜`œ˜ Ă•Â˜}iœ˜] >`>“i /Ă•ĂƒĂƒ>Ă•`Ăƒ Ă•ÂŤ ĂŒÂœ {ä¯ Ă•ÂŤ ĂŒÂœ {ä¯ Âœvv
)$) #) ) % ( ''' % (
020 7024 8455
salesuk@planethollywoodintl.com planethollywoodlondon.com 57-60 Haymarket SW1Y 4QX
HP Template.indd 111
14/12/2018 08:22
Plan your route for London
Supplement
2019
Guide to London - to request your free copy email emma.parkes@ grouptravelworld.com
Bigger
Discounts Visit www.grouptraveloffers.com for discounted tickets to popular UK and European events
Exclusive trip
Access to
invitation
Travel Jobs www.traveljobsworld.com
online listing for jobs in travel
Subscribe
Group Travel Organisers plus a guest, test out the trip before taking your group
www.grouptravelworld. com/subscribe
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.
Subscribe today GTWM-BBG134x190mm_Layout 1 08/02/2018 14:45 Page 1
Call Emma Parkes on 01733 293487 Email emma.parkes@grouptravelworld.com Visit www.grouptravelworld.com/subscribe
GTW Calendar 2018.indd 2
15/12/2017 15:56
• Famous Sites • Museums and Galleries • Walking Tours • Themed Tours • Contemporary Britain
BOOK A BLUE BADGE GUIDE Blue Badge Guides are entertaining and informative, reliable and professional with local and up to date knowledge. The Blue Badge is a symbol of excellence in tourist guiding. Their wealth of experience is
respected by discriminating tour operators and travel agents throughout the world. Whether it is for an individual or a group, business or pleasure, a Blue Badge Guide makes a good experience great!
To book a Blue Badge Guide visit www.britainsbestguides.org T: +44 (0)20 7403 1115 E: hello@blue-badge.org.uk
HP Template.indd 112
14/12/2018 08:25
London 2019
At home
with the royals See London like never before as you enter the gates of our capital’s historic palaces
The original palace building was home to the Archbishops of York, but this venue also caught the eye of the inimitable Henry VIII, who set about seizing and enlarging the bishops’ pad and transforming it into a royal palace, fit for himself and his Queen of the moment, Anne Boleyn. After it was destroyed in a fire, the present building was designed by Inigo Jones and completed in 1622.
HAMPTON COURT PALACE Just outside the main city, this sits alongside
KENSINGTON PALACE
childhood home of Queen Victoria. Visitors
the Tower of London as jewels in the
While in the capital, drop in on Kensington
get a real sense of all its past inhabitants
crown of the Historic Royal Palaces charity,
Palace, a real life royal residence. It has been
as they stroll through the State Rooms.
which maintains six of our most notable
in the British royal family since the 17th
UK palaces. Visitors to their attractions are
century, at which point it was redesigned by Sir
BANQUETING HOUSE
Christopher Wren into the stylish home that is
Described as ‘The grandest... of the
monarchs and people have shaped society,
still in use today. Kensington Palace will probably
architectural genre of banqueting house,’ this
in some of the greatest palaces ever built’.
forever be connected with Diana, Princess of
is the last surviving section of the former
Wales, but this was also the birthplace and
Palace of Whitehall.
promised they will learn ‘The story of how
Described as a 500-year-old royal pleasure palace, Hampton Court certainly delivers. What was once a country house
LOOK FOR THE BLUE BADGE
was transformed into a magnificent palace in the early 16th century, when it attracted the
Blue Badge Tourist Guides are the UK’s official, professional tourist guides, and the British
attention of the notorious monarch Henry VIII,
Guild of Tourist Guides’ website is the place to search for one. Visit britainsbestguides.org
who eventually brought all his six wives here.
to find a guide, and tour, to suit you, wherever you’re headed in Britain, London included.
Surrounded by gorgeous gardens and its famous maze, Hampton Court Palace is as fascinating outside as it is in.
GTW
For more on all the palaces mentioned here see hrp.org.uk Kensington Palace WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
113 GTW Jan 19 London.indd 113
113
10/12/2018 12:17
London 2019
See the
light Don’t let 2019 slip by without a visit to... The Shard Western Europe’s tallest building at 1,000ft
attractions, find out more at the-shard.com
his death in 1759. Hendrix Flat occupies
or theviewfromtheshard.com
the upper floor of 23 Brook Street, where
Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
Jimi lived from July 1968 to March 1969. In the heart of London’s West End, admission (priced at £10) is limited, and
The award-winning Regent’s Park Open Air
while tickets can be bought on the door it’s
Theatre first opened in 1932 and is now one
recommended you buy them in advance.
of the largest theatres in London.
Handel & Hendrix in London is open every
Voted London Theatre of the Year in The Stage Awards 2017, and celebrated for its bold, dynamic productions, over 140,000 people visit the theatre each year during its 18-week season – come rain or shine as it’s completely uncovered! Find out more about the 2019 season at openairtheatre.com
day bar Sunday. Find out more at handelhendrix.org
The Royal Albert Hall
Travel through history, incredible architecture and legendary performances at the iconic Royal Albert Hall. Take a behind the scenes tour to gain access to parts of the hall that are usually off limits, providing a rare insight into
(306m), The Shard stands almost twice the
Handel & Hendrix
height of any other vantage point in London.
Separated by a wall – and 250-odd years
come together to stage hundreds of events
Visitors can experience 360° views over the
– are the homes of two legendary musicians
every year, see royalalberthall.com
city for up to 40 miles on a clear day, after
who chose London as their home. Handel
beginning their journey in the attraction’s
& Hendrix in London tells the story of Jimi
high-speed lifts that zoom from level one to
Hendrix, who lived in this Mayfair flat in the
level 68 in just 60 seconds.
late 1960s, and the German-born British
its unique collections of coins, banknotes and
baroque composer George Frideric Handel,
artefacts. Following a period of renovation,
The Shard’s level 69 observation deck, glass
who made the next door house his home
exciting new displays and exhibits have now
of champagne in hand, or spot London’s
in 1712 and eventually became a British
been added to the galleries. A variety of free
famous landmarks from the open air sky
citizen in 1727.
talks and presentations are on offer to groups
Enjoy panoramic views of the capital from
deck on level 72. Close to London Bridge,
Handel House occupies two floors of 25
and surrounded by the city’s most notable
Brook Street, where the composer lived until
how the show, hospitality and technical teams
Bank of England Museum
Visit the Bank of England Museum and explore
of between 15 and 50 (booking essential). See bankofengland.co.uk
GTW
The view from The Shard
PIXABAY
The Charterhouse has been living the nation’s history since 1348. And in that time it’s served as a monastery, private mansion, boys’ school and an almshouse, which it remains to this day. Discover more on a behind the scenes tour led by one of the resident Brothers. See thecharterhouse.org
114 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
114 GTW Jan 19 London attractions.indd 114
10/12/2018 12:18
From Princess to Empress Amuse your groups at the 200th birthday celebrations of Queen Victoria at Kensington Palace New exhibitions opening 24 May 2019 Victoria: A royal childhood Victoria: Woman and crown +44 (0)20 3166 6311 groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org.uk www.hrp.org.uk/travel-trade
FP Template.indd 100
15/11/2018 21:29