London supplement binder reduced by Harley Denham

SPECIAL ISSUE 2016/2017

EXPLORE LONDON NEW & EXCITING TRIPS FOR YOUR GROUP ● Key events & exhibitions ● Attractions, restaurants & accommodation ● Walks & tours ● Top nights out ● Shopping

Supported by London & Partners

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Lose yourself in the Crown Jewels The treasures that united the kingdom.

For group bookings call 0844 482 7770 or email groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org.uk Visit www.hrp.org.uk Royal Collection Trust ÂŠ 2016 Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

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EDITORIAL Editor Sue Parslow - T: 01733 293240 E: editorial@grouptravelworldmagazine.com Art Director Ian Blaza E: ian@raspberryjamcreative.co.uk Designer / Ad production Ricardo Albarella Contributors: Naomi Mackay, Patricia Mediavilla, Louise Mergatroyd, Helen Milbank, Amy Moore, Rebecca Statham. ADVERTISING Advertising and Marketing Manager Julie Cousins – T: 01733 293242 E: julie.cousins@grouptravelworld.com Operations Manager (Travel Clubs Trade) Harley Denham – T: 01733 293249 E: harley.denham@grouptravelworld.com Sales Executive Paige Fraser - T: 01733 293 245 E: paige.fraser@grouptravelworld.com CHAIRMAN Jonathan Taylor E: jonathan.taylor@grouptravelworld.com © 2015 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.

CONTENTS 4 WHAT’S NEW London & Partners

explore the capital’s latest attractions for 2016/2017.

10 KEY EVENTS A round-up of the

best group-friendly attractions.

18 T HEATRE GUIDE Top West End

shows: what’s on, where.

A guard at Buckingham Palace.

The Coca-Cola London Eye.

Sue

— Editor

22 BE PART OF IT E njoy radio and TV

shows by being part of the audience.

25 P ARKS & GARDENS H ead outside to

visit royal parks and more.

26 ACCOMMODATION Hotels to suit every taste and budget.

31 FOOD & DRINK The best places to

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elcome to the Group Travel World 2016/2017 London supplement, full of ideas, inspiration and information to help you plan your group trip to the capital. Whether you are booking a West End theatre package or are in search of a quirky day out, our guide is here to help as we explore London’s best group-friendly restaurants, hotels, museums, attractions and more. We guarantee you’ll find something your group will love, whether they want to watch their favourite TV and radio programmes being recorded, or enjoy the city’s vibrant market scene. While our London transport guide will ensure you get where you need to be, with information on coach parking, rail and bus connections and river ferries. It’s just a taste of what we have to offer every month in Group Travel World magazine. Visit us at www. grouptravelworld.com – and enjoy each and every trip!

eat and drink.

34 BACKSTAGE TOURS

Go behind the scenes of London’s theatre land.

36 SHOPPING GUIDE From designer

shops to buzzing markets - there is something for everyone.

38 JOURNEY PLANNER Tips to help you plan your trip by coach, bus, train and boat.

GUIDE TO LONDON

41 EXHIBITIONS & MUSEUMS London’s best-loved museums, galleries and exhibitions.

44 T HEMED WALKING TOURS Discover hidden

underground lines, Harry Potter’s hang outs and more.

50 ON THE THAMES

Take to the river on a cruise, day trip or sight-seeing tour. l Group Travel World

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WHAT’S NEW

London calling! London has been voted the most popular city in the world to visit in a new report.

Group Travel World ●

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GUIDE TO LONDON

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Never has there been a better time to explore England’s capital city. Here, travel trade experts London & Partners round up some of London’s upcoming celebrations, festivals, shows and sporting events.

www.grouptravelworld.com

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GUIDE TO LONDON

● Group Travel World

24/08/2016 11:33

WHAT’S NEW

oted the most popular city in the world to visit – again! – in the MasterCard Global Cities Index Report 2015, London has something to suit your group, whether their first love is history, the arts, fine dining or partying. In a year of milestone anniversaries, 2016 has seen London celebrate and commemorate the Queen’s 90th birthday, the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s death, the 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of London, the 100th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme, and the 15th anniversary of the first Harry Potter film being launched. It’s been a year of ground-breaking exhibitions, shows and festivals – and it’s not over yet. As 2016 draws to a close, we round up the best events that are guaranteed to keep your group entertained into 2017.

Group Travel World l

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SHOWS & CELEBRATIONS

The envy of the world, nothing sees the year out in style better than a trip to see London New Year’s Eve fireworks, as the Coca-Cola London Eye is lit up at midnight, sparked by Big Ben’s famous ‘bongs’. It’s the UK’s largest annual fireworks display, and the event is now ticketed (tickets cost around £10). Find out more at tinyurl.com/gsjymsh After seeing 2016 out with a bang you’d be forgiven for feeling a little flat in the new year, but London’s thriving arts scene comes to the rescue with its 2017 London Art Fair (from January 18-22, www. londonartfair.co.uk), as well

as the London Short film Festival (from 6-15 January, shortfilms.org.uk). The events give groups the chance to explore the British modern art scene, as well as the best in UK short film-making talent. For a couple of weeks in January the festival takes over London’s best independent cinemas and venues to showcase some amazing short films, as well as promoting live music performances. If lazing on the water is more your scene, don’t let the murky winter weather dampen your nautical dreams as the famous London Boat Show floats into London’s Excel. From January 6-15, find out more at londonboatshow.com

‘Nothing sees the year out in style better than a trip to see London New Year’s Eve fireworks’

GUIDE TO LONDON

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THE ULTIMATE HALLowEEn Horror EvEnT

BOOK NOW AT Winner of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s scariest attraction for 8 consecUtive years The London Bridge Experience, 2-4 Tooley Street, London Bridge, London SE1 2SY 007_GTWSupp2016_Ad.indd 7

FREE audio guides available

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WHAT’S NEW Later in the year sees the ultimate wake up call, thanks to The London Coffee Festival (held from April 6-9, www. londoncoffeefestival.com). This caffeine-fuelled festival will feature more than 250 artisan coffee stalls, with tasting sessions and demonstrations from world-class baristas, as well as interactive workshops, street food, coffee-based cocktails, live music, DJs, art exhibitions and more. Visitors can also gain access to ‘Milk & Sugar’, which showcases some of the most inspirational brands, from fashion and design to food.

SPORTING FAVOURITES

The Head of the River Race is one of London’s longestrunning sporting traditions where, every spring, 400 crews from around the globe take to the waters of the Thames to compete in this historic boating event. The race was started in 1926 by Cambridge and Tideway oarsman Steve Fairbairn, conceived as a way for crews to practise long rows during winter, in preparation for the summer regatta. The annual event now sees hundreds of boats, each manned by eight men, row over the 4.25 mile

Wembley Stadium

(6.8km) championship course from Mortlake to Putney, with the next event held on March 25, 2017. The race sees crews from all over the world competing, from Australia to Austria. Find out more at www.horr.co.uk and have your sailor’s cap at the ready. Sports fans back on dry land can decide for themselves if the ball really did cross the line by taking the Wembley Stadium Tour as the golden jubilee year of England winning the FIFA 1966 World Cup draws to a close. Highlights include the England dressing room, the players’ tunnel, the royal box and the original crossbar from the 1966 final. Younger groups

will also remember the stadium as the venue for the Live Aid concert in 1985, as well as FC Barcelona’s stunning UEFA Champion’s League triumph in 2011. This hugely popular behind-the-scenes tour runs throughout the year. Find out more at www.wembleystadium. com/Wembley-Tours.aspx l A full guide to London-based events can be found at www.visitlondon.com

HIT THE WEST END

Groups keen to explore London’s theatre scene can enjoy a host of new shows as 2016 rolls into 2017. School of Rock – The Musical opens A view of the River Thames

Group Travel World l

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GUIDE TO LONDON

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LET US HELP YOU!

Need help booking your group visit? London & Partners can help you access everything the city has to offer. With its informative website, extensive listings and dedicated team, London & Partners is on hand to ensure your group gets the very best out of the city. Visit its dedicated travel trade website at londonandpartners.com/traveltrade to find out more, or call 020 7234 5818.

www.grouptravelworld.com

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JOHAN PERSSON

at the London Palladium in October, 2016, at the New London Theatre, based on the hit movie. It tells the tale of Dewey Finn, a failed, wannabe rock star who decides to earn an extra bit of cash by posing as a supply teacher at a prestigious prep school. There he turns a class of straight-A pupils into a guitarshredding, bass-slapping mind-blowing rock band. But can he get them to the Battle of the Bands without their parents and the school’s headmistress finding out? Featuring the music of Andrew Lloyd Webber, watch a trailer for the new show and book tickets at uk.schoolofrockthemusical. com Other upcoming shows include Finding Neverland, which comes to the West End in January 2017, and is based on the Academy Awardwinning film of the same name. It follows playwright J M Barrie as he summons the courage to become the writer – and the man – he yearns to be, with songs penned by Take That star Gary Barlow. Keep an eye on the website for details at findingneverlandthemusical. com/london ■

ALSO SHOWING… A mention of London’s theatre scene isn’t complete without a round-up of the long-running shows that continue to wow groups. Here’s just a taste of what’s on: • Mamma Mia! at the Novello Theatre, www. novellotheatrelondon.info A mother. A daughter. Three possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget… More than 10 million people around the world have fallen in love with the characters, the story and the music that make Mamma Mia! the ultimate feel-good show. • Stomp at Ambassadors Theatre, www.theambassadorstheatre. co.uk Enjoy the revamped Stomp in London with new music, new dance routines, and an exciting new act starring old paint cans! Stomp is a fast-paced combination of music, tap dance and percussion with its own special brand of fun, high-energy performance. • Les Misérables at the Queen’s Theatre, www.lesmis.com/uk Cameron Mackintosh’s legendary production of Boublil and Schönberg’s Les Misérables is a global stage sensation. Seen by more than 60 million people in 42 countries and in 21 languages around the globe, it is still breaking boxoffice records everywhere.

GUIDE TO LONDON

• Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, charlieandthechocolatefactory.com See the new musical version of Roald Dahl’s classic tale, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, live in London’s West End. Roald’s deliciously dark tale of young Charlie Bucket and the mysterious confectioner Mr Willy Wonka comes to life in a brand new musical directed by Academy Award winner Sam Mendes. A chocolate garden, an army of squirrels and the curiously peculiar Oompa-Loompas all feature in this spectacular musical that is choc-full of fantastical treats to dazzle your senses. • Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (parts 1 & 2) at the Palace Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue www. harrypottertheplay.com This brand new West End stage play based on a story by J.K. Rowling and staged in two parts is a must-see for all Harry Potter fans. It’s the eighth in the series of stories about the young wizard and the play has been designed to view on the same day (afternoon and evening) or on two consecutive evenings. ● Turn to page 22 for more West End theatre news. London listings appear every month in Group Travel World magazine.

● Group Travel World

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ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS

Your A to Z guide to Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s key ATTRACTIONS

Buckingham Palace

VISIT BRITAIN

ARCELORMITTAL ORBIT

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Stratford, E20 2SS T: 020 8221 9107 E: info@arcelormittalorbit.com W: www.arcelormittalorbit.com

APSLEY HOUSE ENGLISH HERITAGE

149 Piccadilly, Hyde Park Corner, W1J 7NT T: 020 7499 5676 E: traveltrade@english-heritage. org.uk W: www.english-heritage.org.uk

BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM

Bartholomew Lane, EC2R 8AH

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T: 020 7601 4444 E: enquiries@bankof england.co.uk W: www.bankofengland.co.uk

BBC BROADCASTING HOUSE Portland Place, W1A 1AA T: 0370 901 1227 W: www.bbc.co.uk/ broadcastinghouse

BEEFEATER LONDON: THE HOME OF GIN

20 Montford Place, SE11 5DE T: 020 7587 0034 E: info@beefeaterdistillery.com W: www.beefeaterdistillery. com

GUIDE TO LONDON

THE BRITISH LIBRARY 96 Euston Road, NW1 2DB T: 020 7412 7639 E: visits-tours@bl.uk W: www.bl.uk

BRITISH MUSEUM

Great Russell Street, WC1B 3DG T: 020 7323 8181 E: groups@britishmuseum.org W: www.britishmuseum.org

BUCKINGHAM PALACE

Buckingham Palace, SW1A 1AA T: 020 7839 1377 E: groupbookings@ royalcollection.org.uk W: www.royalcollection.org.uk

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WATFORD

WATFORD WORLD-CLASS CONCERT SEASON 2016

COLOSSEUM

TUE 18 OCTOBER 7.30PM

TUE 8 NOVEMBER 7.30PM

TUE 13 DECEMBER 7.30PM

TCHAIKOVSKY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

CZECH NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

MILOŠ KARADAGLIC ´ English Chamber Orchestra Ensemble

In partnership with

PRE-SHOW DINING AVAILABLE AT EVERY PERFORMANCE

• • • • •

Groups of 8 or more receive 10% off full price tickets on selected shows Groups of 20 or more receive 20% off full price tickets on selected shows Reserve the best tickets and pay later • No booking fees • Free postage Pre-order drinks at a discounted rate • Pre-show dining packages available One-to-one service with a dedicated Groups Booker

Book tickets for your group, by calling 01923 474 124 or e-mail your request to groups@watfordcolosseum.co.uk

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GROUPS

We don’t mind blowing our own trumpet about these group rates

watfordcolosseum.co.uk 24/08/2016 09:41

ATTRACTIONS IWM

CHURCHILL WAR ROOMS

Clive Steps, King Charles Street, SW1A 2AQ T: 020 7930 6961 E: cwr@iwm.org.uk W: www.iwm.org.uk

CLARENCE HOUSE

St James’s Palace, SW1 1BA T: 020 7839 1377 E: groupbookings@ royalcollection.org.uk W: www.royalcollection.org.uk

CUTTY SARK

King William Walk, Greenwich, SE10 9HT T: 020 8312 6608 E: bookings@rmg.co.uk W: www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark

ELTHAM PALACE

Court Yard, Eltham, Greenwich, SE9 5QE T: 020 7973 3529 E: traveltrade@english-heritage. org.uk W: www.english-heritage.org. uk

EMIRATES STADIUM Hornsey Road, N7 7AJ T: 020 7619 5000 E: tours@arsenal.co.uk W: www.arsenal.com

ESTORICK COLLECTION OF MODERN ITALIAN ART

39A Canonbury Square, N1 2AN T: 020 7704 9522 E: info@estorickcollection.com W: www.estorickcollection.com

THE FAN MUSEUM

12 Crooms Hill, Greenwich, SE10 8ER T: 020 8305 1441 E: j.munday@thefan museum.org.uk W: www.thefanmuseum.org.uk

HAMPTON COURT PALACE

East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU T: 0844 482 7770

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The silver bell on HMSBelfast, a museum ship. E: groupsandtraveltrade@ hrp.org.uk W: www.hrp.org.uk/ hamptoncourtpalace

HMS BELFAST

The Queen’s Walk, SE1 2JH T: 020 7940 6300 E: hmsbelfast@iwm.org.uk W: www.iwm.org.uk

HORNIMAN MUSEUM & GARDENS

100 London Road, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ T: 020 8699 1872 W: www.horniman.ac.uk

THE HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY MUSEUM

Horse Guards, Whitehall, SW1A 2AX T: 020 7930 3070 E: museum@householdcavalry. co.uk W: www.householdcavalry museum.co.uk

HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT

Westminster, SW1A 0AA T: 020 7219 4114 E: visitparliament@ parliament.uk W: www.parliament.uk

GUIDE TO LONDON

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM LONDON Lambeth Road, SE1 6HZ T: 020 7416 5000 E: mail@iwm.org.uk W: www.iwm.org.uk

KENSINGTON PALACE

Kensington Gardens, W8 4PX T: 0844 482 7770 E: groupsandtraveltrade@hrp. org.uk W: www.hrp.org.uk/ kensingtonpalace

KENWOOD HOUSE ENGLISH HERITAGE

Hampstead Lane, Hampstead, NW3 7JR T: 020 7973 3529 E: traveltrade@english-heritage. org.uk W: www.english-heritage. org.uk

KEW PALACE

Royal Botanic Gardens, Richmond, TW9 3AB T: 020 8332 5648 E: groups@kew.org W: www.hrp.org.uk/Kewpalace

LONDON BRIDGE EXPERIENCE & TOMBS 2-4 Tooley Street, London

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ATTRACTIONS Bridge, SE1 2SY T: 0207 403 6333 W: www.thelondonbridge experience.com

LONDON CANAL MUSEUM

12-13 New Wharf Road, N1 9RT T: 020 7713 0836 E: groups@canalmuseum.org.uk W: www.canalmuseum.org.uk

THE LONDON DISTILLERY COMPANY

33 Parkgate Road, Battersea, SW11 4NP E: hi@londondistillery.com W: www.londondistillery.com

COCA-COLA LONDON EYE

Westminster Bridge Road, SE1 7PB T: 0871 282 9280 E: groups@londoneye.com W: www.londoneye.com

LONDON FILM MUSEUM

45 Wellington Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 7BN T: 020 836 4913 E: rebeccalondonfilm museum.com W: www.londonfilmmuseum.com

FANS OF LONDON A tourism campaign, launched by London & Partners, the Mayor’s promotional company for London and The Brooklyn Brothers, aims to showcase the events, exhibitions and anniversaries being celebrated in London in 2016. ‘Fans of London’, which is being promoted through VisitLondon.com, is targeted at the North American market and is based on four short films, each featuring its very own American super fan as they take part in an amazing experience to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday, the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s legacy, the opening of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, and the world’s first exhibition of the Rolling Stones, Exhibitionism.

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM

Covent Garden Piazza, WC2E 7BB T: 020 7565 7298 E: bookings@ltmuseum.co.uk W: www.ltmuseum.co.uk

LORD’S CRICKET GROUND

St John’s Wood Road, NW8 8QN T: 020 7616 8595 E: tours@mcc.org.uk W: www.lords.org

MUSEUM OF LONDON 150 London Wall, EC2Y 5HN T: 020 7001 9844 E: traveltrademuseum oflondon.org.uk

W: www.museumoflondon. org.uk

MADAME TUSSAUDS LONDON

Marylebone Road, NW1 5LR T: 0871 222 0177 E: trade@tussauds.com W: www.madametussauds.com

MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS

No.1 Warehouse, West India Quay, E14 4AL T: 020 7001 9844 E: traveltrade@ museumoflondon.org.uk W: www.museumoflondon.org. uk/docklands

NATIONAL GALLERY

Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN T: 020 7907 7059 E: selfguided@ng-london.org. uk W: www.nationalgallery.org.uk

NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM

Park Row, Greenwich, SE10 9NF T: 020 8312 6608 E: bookings@rmg.co.uk W: www.rmg.co.uk/ nationalmaritime-museum

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY

St Martin’s Place, WC2H 0HE T: 020 7312 2483 E: education@npg.org.uk W: www.npg.org.uk

Take a tour of Westminster Hall

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GUIDE TO LONDON

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For more information or to make a group booking kew.org/groups 020 8332 5648

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These rates are only available through Group Line To book any of these fantastic deals, please either call us on 020 7206 1174 or email us at enquiries@groupline.com. Visit us online at www.groupline.com All rates quoted are subject to availability & may change without notice. Exclusions Apply. No exchanges or refunds.

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24/08/2016 09:58

VISIT BRITÅAIN

ATTRACTIONS

TATE BRITAIN

Millbank, SW1P 4RG T: 020 7887 8888 E: ticketing@tate.org.uk W: www.tate.org.uk/visit/ tatebritain

TATE MODERN

Bankside, SE1 9TG T: 020 7887 8888 E: ticketing@tate.org.uk W: www.tate.org.uk/visit/ tatemodern

TOWER BRIDGE EXHIBITION

Tower Bridge Road, SE1 2UP T: 0207 407 9191 E: enquiries@towerbridge.org. uk W: www.towerbridge.org.uk

TOWER OF LONDON

EC3N 4AB T: 020 3166 6311 E: groupsandtraveltrade@hrp. org.uk W: www.hrp.org.uk/ toweroflondon

TWICKENHAM STADIUM

Whitton Road, Twickenham, TW2 7BA T: 0871 222 2017 E: groups@therfu.com W: www.englandrugby.com

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VICTORIA & ALBERT MUSEUM

WESTMINSTER ABBEY

Cromwell Road, SW7 2RL T: 020 7942 2211 E: bookings.office@vam.ac.uk W: www.vam.ac.uk

20 Deans Yard, SW1P 3PA T: 020 7222 5152 E: tours@westminsterabbey.org W: www.westminster-abbey.org

THE VIEW FROM THE SHARD

WIMBLEDON LAWN TENNIS MUSEUM

Joiner Street, SE1 9SG T: 020 3102 3930 E: reservations@ theviewfromtheshard.com W: www.theviewfromtheshard. com

WARNER BROS STUDIO TOUR

Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden, Herts, WD25 7LR T: 0845 084 0900 W: www.wbstudiotour.co.uk

WEMBLEY STADIUM

Wembley, HA9 0WS T: 0844 847 2478 W: www.wembleystadium.com

WELLINGTON ARCH ENGLISH HERITAGE

Apsley Way, Hyde Park Corner, W1J 7JZ T: 020 7973 3529 E: traveltrade@englishheritage.org.uk W: www.english-heritage. org.uk

GUIDE TO LONDON

Church Road, Wimbledon, SW19 5AE T: 020 8946 6131 E: museum@aeltc.com W: www.wimbledon.com

WINDSOR CASTLE

Windsor, Berks, SL4 1NJ T: 020 7766 7321 E: groupbookings@ royalcollection.org.uk visit/ windsorcastle

WWT LONDON WETLAND CENTRE

Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes, SW13 9WT T: 020 8409 4400 E: groups.london@wwt.org.uk W: www.wwt.org.uk/ wetlandcentres/london

ZSL LONDON ZOO

Regent’s Park, NW1 4RY T: 0344 225 1826 E: info@zsl.org W: www.zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo W: www.royalcollection

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NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

VISIT BRITÅAIN

Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD T: 020 7942 5725 W: www.nhm.ac.uk

OLD ROYAL NAVAL COLLEGE

King William Walk, Greenwich, SE10 9NN T: 020 8269 4799 E: boxoffice@ornc.org W: www.ornc.org

THE QUEEN’S HOUSE Romney Road, Greenwich, SE10 9NF T: 020 8312 6608 E: bookings@rmg.co.uk W: www.rmg.co.uk/ queenshouse

RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR NOT!

The London Pavillion, Piccadilly Circus, W1J 0DA T: 020 7494 6818 W: www.ripleyslondon.com

ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS KEW

Kew Green, Richmond, TW9 3AB T: 0208 3325648 E: groups@kew.org W: www.kew.org/groups

ROYAL MEWS

Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 0QH T: 020 7766 7321 E: groupbookings@ royalcollection.org.uk W: www.royalcollection.org.uk/ visit/royalmews

ROYAL OBSERVATORY

St Paul’s Cathedral T: 020 7811 3070 E: education@saatchigallery. com W: www.saatchigallery.com

SEA LIFE LONDON AQUARIUM

Blackheath Avenue, Greenwich, SE10 8XJ T: 020 8312 6608 E: bookings@rmg.co.uk W: www.rmg.co.uk/ royalobservatory

County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, SE1 7PB T: 0871 222 6937 E: sllondon@ merlinentertainments.biz W: www.visitsealife.com/ london

SAATCHI GALLERY

SOMERSET HOUSE

Duke of York’s HQ, King’s Road, SW3 4RY

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Strand, WC2R 1LA T: 020 7845 4600

GUIDE TO LONDON

E: group.bookings@ somersethouse.org.uk W: www.somersethouse.org.uk

ST MARTIN-INTHE-FIELDS

Trafalgar Square, WC2N 4JJ T: 020 7766 1107 E: info@smitf.org W: www.stmartin-in-the-fields. org

ST PAUL’S CATHEDRAL

St Paul’s Church, EC4M 8AD T: 0207 246 8317 E: matthew@stpaulscathedral. org.uk W: www.stpauls.co.uk

23/08/2016 16:47

THEATRE

What’s on We round up the best West End shows.

HUGO GLENDINNING

Tanya Nicole Edwards, Lucy St Louis and Cherelle Williams as The Supremes in Motown The Musical.

Wednesday performances. Call 0845 013 0602 or visit www.beautifulmusical.co.uk PICCADILLY

JERSEY BOYS

Times: Tue-Sat 19.30, Tue & Sat 15.00, Sun 17.00 Length: 2hrs 35mins Jersey Boys documents the rise to fame of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, featuring such hits as Bye Bye Baby (Baby Goodbye) and Big Girls Don’t Cry. Groups of 10-plus receive a reduced rate of £32.50, valid for Tuesday to Thursday performances. Friday and Sunday performances are reduced to £37.50. Groups of 40-plus receive a reduced rate of £32.50, valid for Friday and Sunday performances. Senior groups of 15-plus receive a reduced rate of £27.50, valid for Tuesday to Thursday performances. School groups of 15-plus receive a reduced rate of £21.50, with one teacher admitted free with every 10 students, valid for Tuesday to Thursday performances. Call 0844 871 7644 or visit www.jerseyboyslondon.com LYCEUM THEATRE

THE LION KING ALDWYCH THEATRE

BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL

Times: Mon, Weds, Thurs & Fri, Sat, 19.30, Thurs & Sat 14. 30 Length: 2hrs 30mins Beautiful celebrated its first birthday in London’s West End in February 2016. The production tells the true story of singer-songwriter Carole

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King’s rise to fame, becoming one of the most successful solo acts in music history. The show features classics such as You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman, Take Good Care Of My Baby, You’ve Got A Friend and Locomotion. Groups of six-plus receive a reduced rate of £45, with groups of 15-plus receiving a reduced rate of £35. School groups cost £25, valid for

GUIDE TO LONDON

Times: Tue-Sat 19.30, Weds, Sat & Sun 14.30 Length: 2hrs 45mins The Lion King is a long-running West End musical that depicts the evocative rhythms of Africa through glorious colours, stunning special effects and enchanting music used to tell Disney’s well-known story of Simba. Groups of 12-plus receive a reduced rate of £45 (Stalls & Dress Circle) and £35 (Grand Circle), valid for Tuesday to

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23/08/2016 16:51

THEATRE & Royal Circle) and £28 (Grand Circle). One teacher is admitted free with every 10 paying adults. To book call ATG Tickets on 0844 871 7644 or Disney Theatrical Groups on 020 7845 0949. For more information visit www.thelionking.co.uk

a reduced rate of £35, valid for Monday to Thursday performances. To book call the Shaftesbury Theatre on 020 7379 5399 or visit www.motownthemusical. co.uk.

SHAFTESBURY THEATRE

PHANTOM OF THE OPERA

MOTOWN THE MUSICAL

Times: Mon-Sat 19.30, Wed & Sat 15.00 Length: 2hrs 30mins Motown The Musical follows the legendary career of Berry Gordy, who founded Motown Records and defined the sound of a generation, launching the careers of Diana Ross and the Supremes, Michael Jackson and The Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and The Temptations, among others. Motown features 50 classic Motown hits, including My Girl, Dancing In The Street, Ain’t No Mountain High Enough and I Heard It Through The Grapevine. Groups of 10-plus receive a reduced rate of £45, with groups of 40-plus receiving

DAN WOOLLER

Friday performances. Groups of 40-plus receive a reduced rate of £39.50 (Stalls & Dress Circle) and £29.50 (Grand Circle), valid for Tuesday to Friday performances. Senior groups of 10-plus receive a reduced rate of £33.50 for Wednesday performances only. One group travel organiser is admitted free with every 10 paying adults. Educational workshops are available for school groups of 15-plus, costing £12.50 per student, and last 90 minutes. During a Disney Theatrical Workshop, participants perform scenes, songs and dances from the long-running stage play. A three-part curriculum-linked teaching resource is available to download online once booked – call 020 7845 0949. Educational groups of 10plus receive a reduced rate of £27.50 (Stalls & Royal Circle) and £22.50 (Grand Circle), valid for Tuesday to Thursday performances during termtime, including Wednesday matinees. Educational groups aged 18 and over receive a reduced rate of £30.50 (Stalls

The cast of Beautiful – The Carole King Musical celebrate the show’s first birthday in 2016.

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GUIDE TO LONDON

HER MAJESTY’S THEATRE

Times: Mon-Sat 19.30, Thu & Sat 14.30 Length: 2hrs 30mins The Phantom Of The Opera features an unforgettable score by Andrew Lloyd Webber, combined with intense scenery and breathtaking special effects that work together to bring the legendary love story to life on stage. The production has seen over 12,000 performances since opening in London’s West End on October 9, 1986. Groups of 10-plus receive a reduced rate of £42.50, valid for Monday to Friday performances and Saturday matinees. Tickets for Thursday matinee performances are reduced to £28. To book call SEE Groups on 0844 412 4650 or email groups@seetickets.com. Q&A sessions and a behind the scenes look at the stage set-up of The Phantom Of The Opera are available to book following the Thursday matinee performance. The Phantom’s Lair costs £4 per pupil, with groups of 10-plus permitted to The Phantom Of The Opera Workshop at £7.50 per pupil. School groups of 10-plus wishing to see The Phantom of the Opera receive a reduced rate of £22.50, valid for Monday-Thursday performances. To book call SEE Education on 0844 412 4649 or email

25/08/2016 10:12

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THEATRE education@seetickets.com. For more information visit www. thephantomoftheopera.com/ london

Thriller Live

DUCHESS THEATRE

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG

Times: Wed-Sat 19.30, Thu & Sat 14.30, Sun 15.00 & 19.00 Length: 2hrs 05mins The Play That Goes Wrong won Best New Comedy at the 2015 Olivier Awards. Celebrating its second year at the Duchess Theatre, it follows the antics of The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society, who are putting on a 1920s murder mystery. The accident-prone thespians battle against the odds to make it through their final curtain call. Groups of six-plus receive a reduced rate of £35, valid for Sunday to Friday performances. Groups of 10-plus receive a reduced rate of £29.50, with groups of 25-plus receiving a reduced rate of £25, valid for Sunday to Friday performances. School groups of 12-plus receive a reduced rate of £17.50, valid for Tuesday to Friday performances. To book call 0330 333 4817 or email nimaxgroups@ quaytickets.com. For more information visit www. theplaythatgoeswrong.com LYRIC THEATRE

THRILLER LIVE

Times: Tue-Fri 19.30, Sat 16.00 & 20.00, Sun 15.30 & 19.30 Length: 2hrs 30mins Celebrating its eighth year in London in 2016, Thriller Live is a tribute to the late musician, Michael Jackson. It opened at the Lyric Theatre on January 2, 2009, and has since become the longest running show performed at the venue. From

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pop to rock and soul to disco, Thriller Live features such classics as Smooth Criminal, Dirty Diana and, of course, horror hit Thriller. Groups of eight-plus receive a reduced rate of £29.50, excluding Friday and Saturday evenings, and Sunday performances. School groups of eight-plus receive a reduced rate of £14 (Upper Circle), valid for Tuesday to Thursday performances. To book call 0844 482 9678 or for more information visit www.thrillerlive.com APOLLO VICTORIA

WICKED

Times: Mon-Sat 19.30, Wed & Sat 14.30 Length: 2hrs 50mins Wicked is a reimagining of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, narrating the tale of the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West. Based on Gregory Maguire’s acclaimed 1995 novel – Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West – it tells the untold friendship

GUIDE TO LONDON

of two girls, Glinda and Elphaba. Groups of 10-plus receive a reduced rate from £29.50, valid for Monday to Thursday performances (19.30), and Wednesday performances (14.30). Friday evening and Saturday matinee performances cost from £32.50. Groups of 35-plus receive a reduced rate from £25, valid for Monday to Thursday performances, and Wednesday matinees. Senior groups of 10-plus receive a reduced rate of £22.50, valid for Wednesday matinee performances only. School groups of 10-plus receive a reduced rate from £19.50, valid for Monday to Thursday performances (19.30) and Wednesday performances (14.30). One teacher is admitted free with every 10 tickets purchased. To book call the Group Line on 020 7420 9700 or for more information visit www. wickedthemusical.co.uk n All show times are correct at the time of going to press.

23/08/2016 16:51

TV, RADIO & COMEDY

part of it Be a

Discover how your group can watch their favourite radio and TV shows being recorded, and enjoy live music and comedy.

BBC SHOWS

www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours Free tickets are available to a number of BBC TV and radio shows filmed in and around London, such as Sport Relief, Brain of Britain, Question of Sport and Are You Being Served? Tickets are usually restricted to small group numbers, but you can call BBC Shows and Tours on 0370 901 1227 to check availability – ideally at least six weeks before your visit. Tours of Broadcasting House include The One Show studio, a state-of-the-art newsroom and the chance to read the news and record a radio play. Children must be nine or over. See the website for up-to-date details.

SEE THE X FACTOR

www.applausestore.com This site offers tickets for a number of TV shows – including big shows such as X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent. They can sometimes take group bookings – look on the schedule page for more details.

HAVE A LAUGH

thecomedyclub.co.uk/events The Comedy Club London runs monthly on Thursdays at The Crystal at the Royal Victoria Docks in East London. It has a fully licensed bar and basket meals are available. Call 0207 055 6400.

COMEDY CARNIVAL

www.comedycarnival.co.uk Friday and Saturday nights are the time for Comedy Carnival, featuring stars from Live At The Apollo and Mock The Week at this Soho comedy club, off Leicester Square. Groups can book a number of different packages – including the Party Package (£20-£22 a person), which includes dinner, drinks, comedy show and nightclub entry. Book on 020 7041 7312.

PICCADILLY LONDON COMEDY CLUB

www.piccadillycomedy.co.uk The Comedy is another club that offers good deals for groups. Options include a burger meal at the Comedy pub and comedy show for £20, or a two-course meal at Tiger Tiger plus Comedy Show for the same price (less on Thursdays and Sundays). Comedy tickets also offer entry to the nightclub playing dance floor classics and new releases or late night karaoke and dancing. Call 07568 352828.

THE COMEDY STORE

thecomedystore.co.uk/london Probably the most famous comedy club in London, The Comedy Store has seen the likes of Jo Brand, Eddie Izzard, Rich Hall, and Ed Byrne grace the stage at the club, near Piccadilly Circus. Its Tuesday topical and Thursday stand up shows are both suited for larger parties. Call 0207 930 2949. n

Enjoying a night out at the Comedy Store.

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GUIDE TO LONDON

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ENJOY LIVE MUSIC The Roundhouse (www.roundhouse.org.uk) in Camden offers all kinds of entertainment, from live music to cabaret, theatre and comedy. In 2016 expect to see circus performances, Joss Stone and the Buzzcocks among others. Group rates are sometimes available, call 0300 6789 222 for details. The Union Chapel (www.unionchapel.org.uk) in Islington is multi-purpose – a church, venue and homeless project – and this Gothic Victorian chapel

offers amazing acoustics. Look out for the likes of Glenn Tilbrook and Midge Ure performing in 2016. Call 020 7226 1686. The Forum in Kentish Town (o2forumkentishtown. co.uk) is big enough to get some impressive names – such as Rihanna – but small enough that you can get near enough to see them. Bookings are as diverse as King Diamond, The Undertones and Chas ‘n’ Dave. Call 0207 428 4080.

WILL PEARSON

The Roundhouse in Camden.

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GUIDE TO LONDON

30/08/2016 13:24

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PARKS & GARDENS

Explore

London’s park life Grab a picnic and explore the capital’s bestloved parks. HOLLAND PARK

Small, but perfectly formed, Holland Park is the ideal location for groups who want to escape the clamour of the city. Tucked away in one of London’s most elegant districts, the park offers wooded glades, ponds, pavilions, open expanses, playgrounds and a café. The former ballroom of Holland House is now the stylish Belvedere restaurant, while the orangery and ice house host temporary exhibitions. To find out more visit www. visitlondon.com/things-to-do/ place/469929-holland-park

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TIBETAN PEACE GARDEN

Located in the ground of the Imperial War Museum lies this fitting tribute to peace. Opened in 1999 by the Dalai Lama, the garden often gets overlooked by visitors to the museum but really is worth a visit. A poignant homage to harmony and the power of nature to inspire and unite, the garden (otherwise known as Samten Kyil) also promotes a greater understanding of Buddhist culture. Visit www. tibet-foundation.org/page/ peace_garden

HAMPSTEAD HEATH The wildest of London’s parks, Hampstead Heath in north London is a great place to get back to nature. A favourite with picnickers, cyclists and families, the heath is large enough - and

GUIDE TO LONDON

has enough copses, hills and mounds – to mean a quiet spot is never far away. Visit www. hampsteadheath.net

WINDSOR GREAT PARK

There’s something for everyone at Windsor Great Park, which boasts The Savill Garden, Virginia Water, The Valley Gardens and the Long Walk and Deer Park. It has a royal history spanning over 1,000 years, and groups can enjoy historical monuments, ancient forests and stunning horticultural displays, as well as rare wildlife, plants and fungi. Visit www. windsorgreatpark.co.uk ● For more on London’s eight royal parks visit www.theroyalparks. org.uk, and for more on National trust-owned gardens in London, visit National Trust.org.uk/groups

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23/08/2016 16:52

HOTELS

Top places to stay MARLIN APARTMENTS VARIOUS LOCATIONS

Bigger than the average London hotel room, each with a fullsize kitchen, these apartments are just a short walk from an underground station at locations including London Bridge and Tower Bridge. There’s a 24-hour concierge service at each. www.marlinapartments.com

GO NATIVE

VARIOUS LOCATIONS

A serviced apartment is typically 25 per cent cheaper than an equivalent standard hotel, and the Go Native team will tell you all you need to know about the surrounding area, so you’ll be living like a local in no time. www.gonative.com

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Find somewhere chic and quirky for your group to stay in the city. MSTAY 39 STUDIOS BAYSWATER

Just minutes away from Queensway and Bayswater underground stations, near Hyde Park, the chic MStay 39 Studios offers guests 24 stylish, fully serviced studios. Guests can expect a fully equipped kitchenette, air-conditioning, a rain shower and smart TV, plus complimentary wi-fi and a daily maid service. www.mstay39studios.co.uk

CHEVAL VARIOUS LOCATIONS Cheval Residences offer a collection of London’s most

GUIDE TO LONDON

desirable serviced apartments, located in some of its most sought-after neighbourhoods. Each residence has its own individual style, yet all share the same ethos and levels of service. www.chevalresidences.com

TUNE HOTELS VARIOUS LOCATIONS

Tune Hotels feature spaceefficient rooms with highquality basics, including fivestar beds and power showers. A ‘pay as you use’ system is in place for optional energyconsuming amenities. The five hotels are in Westminster,

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Inside the Marlin Apartments.

Liverpool Street, Paddington, Canary Wharf and King’s Cross. www.tunehotels.com

ST GILES HOTEL FITZROVIA

In the heart of London’s main shopping district, the St Giles Hotel is perfectly located for all London’s major landmarks - Oxford Street, the West End and the British Museum are just minutes away. Guests can enjoy access to one of central London’s most comprehensive health and fitness centres, as well as a casino within the hotel. www.stgiles.com

THE WESTBRIDGE HOTEL, STRATFORD

The Westbridge Hotel is a modern four-star hotel situated in a Grade II listed building just

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Marlin Apartments are very central 15 minutes away from ExCel London. Eighty rooms have free wi-fi internet access, air conditioning, walk-in showers and luxury amenities. The restaurant is open from 7am to 10pm offering breakfast, lunch and dinner, and there’s a gym, guest-exclusive lounge and courtyard. www.thewestbridge.com

HAVERSTOCK HOTEL CHALK FARM

A lovingly restored public house offers modern, boutique accommodation in a minimalistic style. Situated on Haverstock Hill between Belsize Park and Camden

GUIDE TO LONDON

Town, close to Hampstead Village with attractions including Hampstead Heath, Hampstead Theatre and upmarket boutiques. www.haverstockhotel.co.uk

CASTLETON HOTEL PADDINGTON

This hotel offers 46 comfortable en-suite bedrooms, as well as a light and airy breakfast room where you can enjoy a cooked English breakfast. Friendly staff are available around the clock to provide assistance and offer a warm welcome when you arrive. www.thecastletonhotel.com n

24/08/2016 10:14

HOTELS

Hotel reviews The Group Travel World team review two group-friendly hotels in the capital.

ravelodge Docklands is perfectly suited for nights out at the O2 (which you can glimpse from the hotel). It’s a few minute’s walk to a DLR station and a bus stop for regular services to Canary Wharf or to central London. It’s an ideal base also for the Museum of London Docklands, Greenwich Park, Queen Elizabeth Olympic

Park, Westfield Shopping Centre (Stratford) and Excel. We stayed on the quiet fourth floor and it lived up to its name with little noise from other guests, and no sound to indicate that we were close to the main roads into the city. It felt safe and secure as there are security barriers at the entrance to the surrounding complex. It was easy to reach

PREMIER INN LONDON CITY (OLD STREET) HOTEL, WWW.PREMIERINN.COM Premier Inn’s a cut above when it comes to its comfy rooms and promise of a good night’s sleep guaranteed, but I was expecting standards to slip in an inner city location. Surely there’d be noise from the non-stop traffic below? Maybe a slightly tatty foyer? Beds a bit less comfy than the norm? Wrong on all counts! It cost less than £100 for a one-night weekend stay and the room was quiet, smart and clean. Friendly staff greeted us when we arrived, the hotel was spot on location-wise (perfect for the Shoreditch ‘London Unseen’ tour we were booked on – I’d hugely recommend this walking tour for your group, too, see sockmobevents.org.uk). All in all, I couldn’t fault this Premier Inn and it offered fantastic value for money. It’s close to Old Street underground station (Piccadilly Circus is 20 minutes away by tube), offers free wi-fi, air conditioning, freeview TV, a hairdryer and a king size bed. Reviewed by: GTW writer Helen Milbank

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A room at the Travellodge Docklands by car and parking was just £8 per day. Reception staff are friendly and happy to offer advice on travel and local amenities. The hotel is ranked three-star and the room itself was clean with everything you might need. It was simple and plainly decorated, but perfectly fine, especially if you’re planning to be out and about. There are tea and coffee making facilities and you get 30 minute’s free wifi. You can opt to have a cooked breakfast in the morning, and evening meals and drinks in the bar in the evening. Prices are from £49 per night,travelodge.co.uk n Reviewed by: GTW editor Sue Parslow

GUIDE TO LONDON

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23/08/2016 16:56

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24/08/2016 09:34

how about a wild day out?

large capacity restaurant schools and groups welcome educational tours, pre/post-theatre dining

call 02074343111 or visit www.therainforestcafe.co.uk/groups

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24/08/2016 10:05

FOOD & DRINK

Eat, drink and be

merry!

From ice cream tours to group-friendly Caribbean restaurants, we round up some of London’s tastiest spots. A TASTE OF THE CARIBBEAN

If a trip to Trinidad is a stretch too far for your group, they can sample the Caribbean high life on British shores, as the hugely successful Cottons Caribbean Restaurant and Salon de Rhum has launched its new flagship restaurant in Notting Hill. With its sky-blue exterior and tropical planters marking the entrance, the restaurant offers a holiday vibe – especially when you catch sight of the UK’s largest collection of rum behind the bar, with more than 300 varieties to indulge in (don’t worry, Notting Hill Gate underground station is just

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crawling distance away!). In the bar area, groups can enjoy bar snacks and sharing plates, such as jerk pork ribs (£7), oxtail and bean stew (£7.50), and ackee and saltfish (£7.50). The Glass House main restaurant offers traditional Caribbean cuisine Monday to Friday, with lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. Go for barbecue glazed pork belly with rum and molasses (£7), or Trinidadian steamed red mullet in garlic butter (£17). A weekend brunch is served on Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 3pm, with dinner from 4pm until 11pm. The restaurant has a large self-

GUIDE TO LONDON

contained party and private dining space. The original Cottons opened in Camden more than 30 years ago, while the Boxpark Cottons in Shoreditch launched three years ago. Jamaican born head chef Nikki McLeod held the reins at Cottons Camden for 10 years, and is now based at Notting Hill. Find out more – and plan your group’s Caribbean experience – at www.cottonsrestaurant.co.uk

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23/08/2016 17:04

FOOD & DRINK

Ice cream galore…

Becky Statham shares her experience of an Ice Cream Tour around some of London’s iconic streets.

’m a lover of ice cream, as is my partner, so when I discovered you could take a walking tour round London to sample some of the best ones on offer, I couldn’t resist. The tour takes around two and a half hours, which may seem like a long time to be eating ice cream, but trust me it flies by! Our meeting point was at Snowflake Gelato in Soho, where we were greeted by our host, Jennifer Earle.

TASTE SENSATION

We were part of a group of 10, the maximum number for each tour, so Jennifer asked us all to introduce ourselves and share our favourite flavour of ice cream. Using this information she tailored the flavours from Snowflake to ensure we got a taste of our favourite, as well as sampling new ones. Don’t be surprised when she mentions there won’t be any ice cream on this tour as it’s actually Gelato that will be on offer (made with milk and sugar and served at a warmer temperature than ice cream), but it turns out this tastes even better.

TRY SOMETHING NEW After sampling around eight

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different flavours, we headed to our next stop at Gelupo Gelato. It’s Jennifer’s personal challenge to make sure any visitor is full by the end of the tour and with at least 20 different flavours on offer, she very rarely fails. The tour takes you on to la Gelatiera, Morelli’s and finally to Gelatorino in Covent Garden. Flavours can be requested along the way and some of the more adventurous ones include spearmint, basil and chilli, and honey, rosemary and orange zests. However, there are still plenty of classics on offer including a very moreish vanilla.

Becky (far right) and her group prepare to get stuck in.

FUN FACTS

On the walk between each gelateria historic facts about surrounding buildings and streets are pointed out, from when Leicester Square became famous to why performers of Punch and Judy shows are known as Professors. As well as helping the ice cream settle, this is great for anyone new to London or for those simply wanting to learn more. I couldn’t recommend the tour enough, it’s laid back, friendly and a perfect way to sample some of the best gelato around. n

GUIDE TO LONDON

GIVE IT A GO l A minimum

group of four people are welcome on any of the Ice Cream Tours l Eight or more guests can get a group discount of 10 per cent l There is a maximum of 10 (possibly 12 on a weekday) guests per group l Other tours include a Chocolate Ecstasy Tour and a Coffee and Chocolate Tour Visit the website at www. chocolateecstasytours.com

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23/08/2016 17:04

Dine out in style

ALL ABOARD…

Top chef Tom Aiken’s new Tom’s Kitchen deli and bar has been launched on the quayside of iconic London landmark, HMS Belfast. The new space offers al fresco dining, with stunning views across Tower Bridge, The Shard and the London skyline. At 26, Tom became the youngest British chef ever to be awarded two Michelin stars, and his remarkable career has taken him to David Cavalier’s in Battersea, Pierre Koffman’s La Tante Claire, Pied-à-Terre and Joel Robuchon in Paris. He is one of the UK’s most acclaimed and inspirational British chefs, with top dining spots already established in Chelsea, Somerset House, Canary Wharf and St Katharine

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FOOD & DRINK

Give your group a night to remember at one of London’s top eateries

Docks. Find out more and book your group’s table at www. tomskitchen.co.uk/hms-belfast

ICONIC VENUE

It was the venue for one of The Rolling Stones’ performances and hosted gigs for bands and artists ranging from Fleetwood Mac to Jimi Hendrix and David Bowie, and now the former site of the iconic Marquee Club in Soho has returned in its newest incarnation as 100 Wardour St. Hailed as the ‘new living room for Soho - somewhere to eat, relax and be entertained’, the venue is split across two levels. 100 Wardour Lounge on the ground floor is an allday restaurant and bar, while downstairs contains the 100 Wardour Club, a restaurant, bar and music venue that’s open in

GUIDE TO LONDON

the evenings. Find out more at www.100wardourst.com n

HELP FOR GTOS Looking for a London restaurant that will cater for your group or party? Square Meal’s carefully selected list of the best restaurants for group dining aims to make your group booking a whole lot easier. All the places mentioned have been tried and tested, and each Square Meal listing features an independent review, as well as reviews from diners, together with unique special offers, such as free drinks and discounts. Find out more at www.squaremeal.co.uk

23/08/2016 17:04

THEATRE TOURS

Go behind

the scenes

Here’s a selection of backstage theatre tours your theatre-loving group may enjoy.

hrough the Stage Door is the UK’s first interactive theatre tour to be held at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. Directed by Andrea Brooks, and with the help of a handful of professional actors, the history of The Theatre Royal Drury Lane is brought to life as key characters, writers and actors from the theatre’s 300-year-old past take you back through time as you look around this famous theatre. As your group will soon discover, since its construction in 1663 the theatre has triumphed over tragedy, fire, bankruptcy and even murder. During this fun tour, which lasts approximately one hour, groups will meet characters such as the playwright Richard Sheridan, the great clown Grimaldi, the celebrated actress and mistress Nell Gwynne and many others who played an important role in the theatre’s history. Tour times and dates vary, so call for details on 0844

858 8877 or visit www. londontheatres.co.uk/theatreroyal-drury-lane

THE NATIONAL THEATRE

At the National Theatre, backstage tours are performed by knowledgeable and entertaining guides. Here, visitors follow in the footsteps of past productions and uncover secrets that bring stories to life on stage. Tours take a little over an hour and are available for groups of eight or more at £7.50 each. To book email tours@nationaltheatre.org.uk Groups can also see, firsthand, the craft and skill of the theatre’s costume team including the cutting room, dye shop and wig room. Tours are held on selected Saturdays at 10am, and tickets cost £12.50 (tours last approximately two hours). For more information call the box office on 020 7452 3000.

SOUTHBANK CENTRE Built in 1951, Southbank

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GUIDE TO LONDON

The Southbank Centre Centre is a modern, artistic venue that offers a diverse range of guided tours for groups that explore the venue’s unique architecture and rich heritage. Each tour runs for approximately one hour on select dates throughout the year. To book email tours@ southbankcentre.co.uk

SHAKESPEARE’S GLOBE

Shakespeare’s Globe offers a combined Globe exhibition and tour, which gives groups the opportunity to learn more about the building and its famous playwright, William Shakespeare. Expert guides escort visitors around the iconic Globe Theatre. Group bookings must be made via the group request form. For more information visit www.shakespearesglobe. com ■

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24/08/2016 11:00

THERE’S NO GREATER SALUTE TO ROCK ‘N’ ROLL HISTORY THAN A HARD ROCK CLASSIC TEE.

Catering for all group sizes, groups dine from a choice of set menus, for further information please contact Sarah_handy@hardrock.com LONDON | 150 OLD PARK LANE | +44 0207 514 1700 HARDROCK.COM

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24/08/2016 09:36

LONDON MARKETS // HOTELS ITALIAN MARKET COMES TO LONDON

Head to a

Market London’s markets can be buzzy places to explore, soak up the atmosphere and pick up bargains. BOROUGH MARKET

Fresh fish, meat, and cheese, plus street food to eat. www.boroughmarket.org.uk

BRICK LANE MARKET

Cutting edge artists, designers, collectors, chefs and bakers. www.bricklanemarket.com

BROADWAY MARKET

Arts and crafts, plus a farmers’ market and more. www.broadwaymarket.co.uk

CAMDEN LOCK MARKET

Wide range of goods in a youthful, bohemian atmosphere. www.camdenlockmarket.com

GREENWICH MARKET

Arts, antiques and collectables. www.greenwichmarketlondon. com

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MALTBY STREET MARKET Artisan food stalls www.maltby.st

PORTOBELLO ROAD MARKET

Mercato Metropolitano (MM), based around the values of craftsmanship, sustainability, urban renewal and good honest food, is new to London. Located in the new ‘SoBo’ area (south of Borough), a part of the Borough Triangle that’s currently undergoing a £3 billion regeneration, the market is close to Elephant and Castle. It aims to empower small producers, farmers and artisans through dedicated spaces designed around a love of food. Specialising in small producers from all over Italy and the UK, MM has an onsite bakery, fishmongers, butchers, coffee roasters, pizza chefs, beer makers, cheesemongers, specialist charcuteries and a large selection of Italian wines. Find out more at www.facebook.com/ MERCATOMETROPOLITANO

Vintage clothing, antiques, household goods & bric-a-brac. www.portobelloroad.co.uk/ themarket

OLD SPITALFIELD MARKET

A broad mix varying daily – includes records, collectables, clothes and art. www.oldspitalﬁeldsmarket. com

REAL FOOD MARKET

High quality street food and ‘home grown’ produce www.realfoodfestival.co.uk

GUIDE TO LONDON

ROMFORD MARKET

A vast range, from clothes and shoes to food, and jewellery to plants. www.romford-market.co.uk

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23/08/2016 17:08

SHOPPING

Shopping galore

London & Partners explores London’s top three shopping areas.

WESTFIELD LONDON & STRATFORD CITY

Westfield London and Westfield Stratford City are the capital’s largest places to shop, dine and relax, each with over 250 shops and 65 eateries. For a fashion fix, The Village at Westfield London houses more than 40 luxury brands including Louis Vuitton, Prada, Burberry and Versace, while Westfield Stratford City, Europe’s largest shopping mall, adds entertainment to its offering with a cinema, bowling alley and a 24-hour casino. What’s more, Westfield Stratford City is situated on the doorstep of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, so you’ll be able to include a bird’s eye view from the top of the ArcelorMittal Orbit as part of your itinerary. For groups, both centres offer a range of services, including free coach parking, pick up/ drop off bays, group rates in certain restaurants and a meet and greet service by its concierge team. For more information email Gwyn. Davis@westfield-uk.com or visit uk.westfield.com

OXFORD STREET & REGENT STREET

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Westfield Stratford City in Europe’s largest shopping mall. Oxford Street offers an unrivalled shopping experience, with one-and-a-half miles of high street brands, such as Topshop, Gap and River Island, as well as iconic department stores including Selfridges, John Lewis, House of Fraser and Marks & Spencer. Regent Street, meanwhile, is the best shopping and lifestyle destination in the West End. Its added attractions include listed architecture, interiors, art galleries, hotels and spas. Visit www.oxfordstreet.co.uk and www.regentstreetonline.com

LONDON’S LUXURY QUARTER

London’s Luxury Quarter, which covers 42 luxury streets across Mayfair, Piccadilly and St James’s in London’s popular West End, is the world’s most exclusive shopping and cultural destination. It’s home to high-end retailers with elegant stores and

GUIDE TO LONDON

exclusive designer fashion, internationally renowned art galleries and auction houses, five-star hotels and Michelin starred restaurants, all within a close vicinity. In the heart of the London Luxury Quarter is Bond Street, revered for its wealth of fashion, fine jewels, art and antiques, attracting visitors from across the globe. To explore the extent of the area’s offerings, visitors can download the London Luxury Quarter app, available on iPhone, iPad and Android. London Luxury Quarter can also organise bespoke tours, giving visitors exclusive behind-the-scenes access to businesses within the area, and a full concierge service is available to meet all shoppers’ needs. Find out more at www. londonluxuryquarter.com n l Need help booking your group’s shopping trip? Visit londonandpartners.com/travel-trade, or call 020 7234 5818.

24/08/2016 09:49

& about TRAVEL

Out

Our guide to exploring London by train, tube, bus, coach and boat. GRAB A GROUP DAY TRAVELCARD

Groups of 10-plus can buy a Group Day Travelcard. These paper tickets provide unlimited travel after 9.30am, and any time on weekends and public holidays within the zones paid for, on London’s buses, tube trains, trams, the DLR, London Overground, TfL Rail and most National Rail services. The travelcards are available from visitor centres, tube station ticket machines, as well as London overground and some National Rail stations that tube and SCHOOL London overground services run GROUPS through. They If you’re taking a school group cost £8 per adult to London you can sign up to the for zones 1 to School Party Travel Scheme in order 6 (under 16s to get free off-peak school group £4), and £8.60 travel. Visit https://tfl.gov.uk/ for zones 1 to 9 fares-and-payments/travel-for(£4.30 for under under-18s/school-parties 16s).

TAKE TO THE WATER

MBNA Thames Clippers is the leading river bus service on the Thames, with services departing every 20 minutes from major London piers,

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GUIDE TO LONDON

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TIPS FOR COACH DRIVERS TfL has the following advice for coach drivers touring the capital: ● Different attractions have different parking rules, therefore drivers should familiarise themselves with parking arrangements at popular sites and places of interest. ● Engines should be switched off when the coach is parked to avoid disturbing residents. ● Don’t let yor coach obstruct other traffic. ● Don’t enter coach ban areas, unless access is permitted and/or you need to serve a property in the area. ● Don’t park overnight on the street, unless you have permission. ● Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) should be paid or disputed according to the designated instructions. ● Ensure your group is ready when picking up. ● Don’t wait or park on clearways. ● Don’t arrive early to load or remain parked after unloading. ● Don’t park or wait at bus stops. ● Remain with your vehicle at all times. ● Pick up/drop off is permitted on double and single yellow lines only. Some London boroughs allow an observation time, though this does not apply when loading restrictions are in force. ● Double red lines mean no stopping at any time. Single red lines mean no stopping during restricted hours. Vehicles registered as a bus can use red route bus stops, but must not park or wait.

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Coach drivers can plan ahead, thanks to TfL’s website. stopping at North on getting around Greenwich London go to tfl. TRY A BIKE! (for The O2), gov.uk/travelThere is a Santander bike Greenwich, information/ docking station situated every 300 Canary visiting-london/ to 500 metres in London 10,000 Wharf, bikes at over 700 docking stations! It Tower, GOING costs from just £2 to ride them. Check London BY out the leisure routes, including Bridge, COACH? London’s secret gardens at https://tfl. Embankment To help gov.uk/modes/cycling/santanderand the group travel cycles/leisure-routes London Eye. organisers and This is often coach operators the fastest way to plan their trip to travel when London’s London, Transport for roads are snarled up, as London (TfL) has an in-depth a guide, Embankment to website packed with advice Greenwich takes 42 minutes, and information at www.tfl. and Greenwich to North gov.uk. The website is also Greenwich just eight minutes. home to a detailed coach In April 2013 the company parking map, and has live won the contract to run a information on delays and river bus service from Putney roadworks, as well as details of to Blackfriars, which allows the city’s emission zones and the boats to now additionally congestion charges. stop at Putney, Wandsworth Did you know that vehicles Riverside, Chelsea Harbour classed as a bus, but not and Cadogan Pier. The River registered with the DVSA Bus Express for The O2 is an (including Northern Ireland vehicles) will need to register additional fast direct service with TfL for a 100 per cent between London Eye, London discount? Bridge and Canary Wharf to Find out more at www. The O2 at North Greenwich on cclondon.com/excemptions. arena event nights. TfL also has a helpline For more info visit offering advice on coach www.thamesclippers.com or parking and driver facilities follow @ThamesClippers throughout central London, ● To watch informative films call 0845 604 0770. ■

GUIDE TO LONDON

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23/08/2016 17:09

PHOTO CREDIT: BARRIE WENTZELL

Separated by a wall & 200 years are the homes of two musicians who chose London & changed music.

Plan your visit or learn about our great music events: handelhendrix.org +44 (0)20 7399 1953

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24/08/2016 09:37 09:38 24/08/2016

WHAT’S ON

Exhibitions & museums EXHIBITIONS Capturing the City: Photography at the Bank of England

Bank of England Museum Until December 31, 2016 Telling the photographic history of the Bank of England, this exhibition throws open the museum’s historic photography collection, which shows Threadneedle Street’s hidden emergency operating theatre, Sir John Soane’s ‘lost’ bank and a host of largely unseen, beautifully

London is home to world-class collections. Here, we round up the best group friendly choices atmospheric pictures showing the history of the bank and its city since the mid-19th century. www.bankofengland. co.uk/museum

Real to Reel: A Century of War Movies

Imperial War Museum Until January 8, 2017 This exhibition is a chance for

groups to go behind the scenes of some of the most iconic war films that have captured the imagination of audiences across the generations. The museum is also home to a number of permanent exhibitions, including The Holocaust Exhibition, which traces the Nazi persecution and murder of Europe’s Jews from

THE SAATCHI GALLERY Home to some of the UK’s biggest museum exhibitions (including the recent and much-lauded Exhibitionism: The Rolling Stones), the Saatchi Gallery is just four minutes’ walk from Sloane Square tube station and group visits are free, with free guided tours (book through the gallery’s Education Department). Find out more at www.saatchigallery.com

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GUIDE TO LONDON

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23/08/2016 17:11

WHAT’S ON WHAT’S ON AT TATE MODERN DAVID HOCKNEY

Feb 9 to May 29, 2017 David Hockney, one of the most popular and influential British artists of the 20th century, returns to Tate Britain in 2017 for his most comprehensive exhibition yet. The show gathers together an extensive selection of his most famous works celebrating achievements in painting, drawing, print, photography and video across six decades

WOLFGANG TILLMANS

Feb 15 to June 11, 2017 Since the early 1990s, Wolfgang Tillmans has earned recognition as one of the most exciting and innovative artists working today. This exhibition brings his ‘extended practice’ to the fore, offering a new focus on his photographs, video, digital slide projections, publications, curatorial projects and recorded music. In March, Tillmans will also take over Tate’s South Tank for 10 days with a speciallycommissioned installation featuring live music events. Taking the year 2003 as the literal and conceptual point of departure, the exhibition will focus on the artist’s work produced in the 14 years since his major exhibition at Tate Britain. Find out more at www.tate.org.uk

The Cutty Sark is the world’s sole-surviving tea clipper. 1933 to 1945, and A Family in wartime. This tells the story of how ordinary people braved the challenges of life at home during the Second World War through the eyes of the Allpress family, who lived in Stockwell, London. www.iwm.org.uk

Centenary of the Russian Revolution

Marx Memorial Library November 4, 2017 Under the political leadership of the Bolsheviks, the Revolution overthrew the Provisional Government that had replaced the regime of Tsar Nicholas II in February 1917. The centenary will be marked with a programme of events at Marx Memorial Library, with the main event taking place on Saturday November 4. marx-memorial-library.org

MUSEUMS British Museum

First opened in 1759, the British Museum was the first

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GUIDE TO LONDON

national museum to open to the public anywhere in the world. It was free to visit (and still is) so that any ‘studious and curious persons’ could pass through its doors and look upon the strange objects collected from all over the globe. Today, the galleries are divided by location and periods in history, from ancient Iran, Greece, China to Roman Britain. www.britishmuseum.org

The V&A

The V&A is the world’s leading museum of art and design, and it houses one of the world’s greatest collections of decorative arts, in such varied fields as ceramics, sculpture, portrait miniatures and photography. Among the highlights are the British Galleries 1500-1900, which are arranged chronologically to trace the history of British design from the reign of Henry VIII to that of Queen Victoria. Admission is free, and free groups tours can be arranged. www.vam.ac.uk

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23/08/2016 17:12

Natural History Museum

One of London’s best-loved museums, the Natural History Museum is free to enter and allows groups of all ages to discover around 70 million plant, animal, fossil, rock and mineral specimens. Its Life Galleries are devoted to displays on animal life, from creepy crawlies to the plaster cast of a Diplodocus that lords it over the Central Hall. www.vam.ac.uk

A REGAL COLLECTION

Royal Museums Greenwich is home to the Royal Observatory and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum, the Queen’s House and London’s only Planetarium. Group rates for all attractions are now available and it has a dedicated travel trade team ready to help you plan your group’s perfect day. The Royal Observatory Greenwich is the historic home of British astronomy, Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and the worldfamous Meridian Line. Cutty Sark is the world’s sole-surviving tea clipper and now an award winning visitor attraction. Free to visit, the National Maritime Museum is the largest museum of its kind in the world. Also free to visit, the Queen’s House has just undergone a major renovation in celebration of its 400th anniversary. Find out more at www.rmg. co.uk

National Gallery

Another world-class museum that’s free to visit, the National Gallery is home to more than 2,300 art works, including including many famous works, such as van Eyck’s Arnolfini

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HANDEL & HENDRIX IN LONDON

Music lovers will enjoy a visit to the homes of musicians Jimmy Hendrix and George Frideric Handel on 25 Brook Street. Four restored rooms include a bedroom and the room in which Handel rehearsed with his musicians. Additional rooms house exhibitions on Handel’s life. Hendrix’s upper floor flat is laid out as it was when he lived there. handelhendrix.org Portrait, Velázquez’s Rokeby Venus, Turner’s Fighting Temeraire and Van Gogh’s Sunflowers. Private group tours and lectures can be arranged. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk

London Science Museum

Founded in the 1850s, the London Science Museum is one of the city’s most popular attractions, attracting more than 3,000,000 visitors every

GUIDE TO LONDON

year. Groups can enter – for free – and enjoy a mix of temporary and permanent exhibitions. The museum is home to Stephenson’s Rocket and some of the earliest remaining steam engines, as well as medical items, early digital technology, and more. It holds regular ‘Science Nights’ for children. www.sciencemuseum.org. uk ■

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25/08/2016 10:14

WALKING TOURS

Walk the talk

Take a street art tour with Turicity

Discover the capital’s best walking tours, whether you want to explore London’s hidden underground lines or Harry Potter’s hang outs…

alking tours are a fantastic way to see London, and discover hidden nooks and crannies you’re never going to see from a tour bus. Most companies offer a private guided tour for groups. You might find yourself led by Oscar Wilde, or a guide sporting

a cape and wand who will magically open the tube doors with a classic Potter spell! On some tours you’re led by your belly as you discover chocolate, pubs and great eateries (please note, most of the walking tours mentioned here last somewhere between 90 minutes and two and a half hours).

THEMED TOURS

Muggle Tours (www. muggletours.co.uk) specialises in Harry Potter-themed tours, where you can expect to see the entrance to the Leaky Caudron, the alleyways off Charing Cross Road that inspired Diagon Alley, and the visitors’ entrance to the Minstry of Magic. Muggle Tours specialise in Harry Potter-themed tours.

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GUIDE TO LONDON

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24/08/2016 10:05

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Extremely informative guide brilliant tour!â&#x20AC;?

days out

theatre

- Kim, NHS Surrey surgery group

We are the proud recipient of TRIPADVISORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CertiďŹ cate of Excellence.

Greenwich Royal Tours offers unique guided tours ideal for groups. All admission fees included as well as one of our fun and informative guides! Give us a ring or email us anytime and we would be delighted to chat about your groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plans. Our GREENWICH HIGHLIGHTS HALF DAY TOUR and our SECRET GARDENS OF LONDON TOUR are ideal for groups. Also, our new GREENWICH FOOD TOUR is ideal for small groups of 6 - 12 pax.

www.greenwichroyaltours.com bookings@greenwichroyaltours.com

Tel. 020 8319 2143

LEADING LONDON ATTRACTIONS AT LOWER THAN GROUP RATES!

View all offers online at

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Freephone 0800 049 8309 www.groupsdirect.co.uk

attractions education

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25/08/2016 11:14

WALKING TOURS

Join Alternative London’s tours Call 07914 151041 or email bookings@muggletours.co.uk. To the small screen, and following in the footsteps of BBC’s drama Dickensian, interest in Dickens’ London should be high. On this tour from London Walking Tours (www.london-walkingtours.co.uk) you’ll see the prison where his family was incarcerated, the Crossbones Burial Ground, and the spot where Nancy betrayed Bill Sikes. Call 020 8530 8443. It’s not only Dickensian London that was dark, and with centuries of black deeds in its history, it’s no surprise that spooky tours of the city are so

popular. Take a tour with the Duke of Darkness himself and discover some of the darkest tales and goriest stories of London – guaranteed ghosts can be arranged! Call 020 7624 3978, visit www.walks.com or email london@walks.com Coming forward in time, take The Tube Tour (www.insiderlondon.co.uk). The Tube Tour starts off at the first-ever London Underground station and ends at one of the most futuristic. Call 020 7183 1055 Then, come firmly into the 21st century and the now trendy East London. London Eating Tours (www. eatinglondontours.co.uk) aim

Join a London Eating Tour.

to take guests on a tour of the delicious delights of this part of the capital, from bagels to Brick Lane curries. Contact jen@eatingeuropetours.com or call 020 3289 6327. Or take a Street Art tour (touriocity. com), which will give your group a chance to see some of the works of street art legend Banksy and more ■

USEFUL Fun London Tours www.funlondontours.com Undiscovered London www.undiscoveredlondon. com East End Tours www.eastendtours.com London Historians www.londonhistorians.org Sandemans New Europe www.newlondon-tours.com London Town Walks www.newlondon-tours.com Alternative London www.alternativeldn.co.uk

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GUIDE TO LONDON

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24/08/2016 10:05

LONDON STADIUM TOUR Now Open

EXPERIENCE OUR MULTIMEDIA TOURS • A brand new exciting interactive multimedia tour • Go behind the scenes at the former Olympic Stadium, home to West Ham United and UK Athletics • See panoramic views, the changing rooms, indoor running track, players tunnel and go pitch side amongst much more • Interactive devices allow you to control your own content • Enjoy beautiful parklands and serene waterways in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park • Ideal for individuals and groups Available in 5 languages

SHARE IN LONDON’S LEADING EXPERIENCE tours@london-stadium.com I london-stadium.com

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24/08/2016 09:39

WALKING TOURS

Going Underground

Deep under the streets of London lie hidden tube tunnels, just waiting to be uncovered. Helen Milbank steps into the unknown as she explores London Transport Museum’s series of fascinating walking tours.

ack in 1962 the doors were closed on an era of the London Underground that had first begun several decades before. Fuelled by the popularity of the railways, the grand-looking Euston station – which opened in the 1830s – was the overland gateway to the Midlands. But London’s population was quickly sky rocketing, and more needed to be done to ferry both them, and passengers who’d arrived from Birmingham, Liverpool and beyond, between Euston and the rest of the capital. Why not go underground, said a few clever engineers, and in 1903 the City & South London Railway and the Charing Cross, Euston & Hampstead Railway both started to build separate underground railways to serve the Euston area. The two companies merged a decade later to become the Underground Electric Railways

of London, but by the 1960s it was time for an overhaul. Euston station was demolished, the site rebuilt and the new, improved Victoria line was created. As a result, there was a shake up of the whole line. The London Underground tunnel network was expanded and reconfigured, its ventilation system was upgraded, new escalators were built, and platforms were widened. A transfer passage was closed as part of these works in 1962, with several lifts also closed three years later and their shafts converted into ventilation ducts. These ‘hidden’ tunnels were destined to be consigned to the history books, you might imagine. But they’ve since been given a new lease of life thanks to the London Transport Museum (LTM). Its Hidden London tours give groups the chance to explore these forgotten tunnels and

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GUIDE TO LONDON

learn, first-hand the history behind the development of the tube network. Now, the ‘lost’ tunnels of Euston are open to small groups for a fascinating guided tour on selected days of the year. In addition to this, LTM offers tours of Clapham South station, Down Street and 55 Broadway. If you’re yet to become tube station-savvy, here’s a quick guide to why these points on the Underground map are so special: l Down Street in Mayfair is Churchill’s secret station, no less. One of London’s most intriguing hidden spaces, it sits between Hyde Park Corner and Green Park stations, and had a brief life as a working station from 1907 to 1932. However, it was later to play a crucial role in helping to win the Second World War when it was covertly transformed into the Railway Executive Committee’s bunker. Today, groups can experience the warren of narrow tunnels

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where Prime Minister Winston Churchill took secret refuge at the height of the Blitz. l The Clapham South tour takes groups deep under the streets of London – 180 steps deep, to be precise – to explore one of eight Second World War shelters that existed across London. Opened to the public in July 1944, Clapham South deep-level shelter had over a mile of subterranean passageways. These can now be explored on a guided tour, giving groups an insight into the lives of the people who sheltered here 70 years ago. l Known as London’s first skyscraper, the towering Art Deco 55 Broadway may seem a strange choice for an Underground-themed attraction, but this guided tour gives groups muchcoveted access to London Underground’s former headquarters – as well as a new perspective on our capital as they journey up 14 stories of ornate-looking offices, grand meeting rooms and stunning rooftop views.

“IT’S AMAZING!”

“My husband John and I went on the Hidden London Euston tour and it was a real oneoff,” says GTW writer Helen Milbank. “The meeting spot by a non-descript door opposite Euston station – was the start

of an entertaining tour that took us through the station’s ticket hall (no mean feat for the tour organisers due to heavy May bank holiday foot traffic) and through a ‘secret’ door into a now-redundant transfer passage. “Closed in 1962 it’s been frozen in time, with posters lining the wall depicting the early-’60s theatre shows that were on at the time. We spotted West Side Story, showing at the Astoria, and an advert for a hair product called Brushwave: ‘Today’s finest permanent wave’. We also laughed at the ’60s-style graffiti. It’s good to see people were still drawing glasses and a moustache on posters 50 years ago! “Well organised from start to finish, the tour makes you appreciate what’s going on around you whenever you hop on and off a tube. Ventilation tunnels push warm air up as trains approach – something we felt as we were led along a shaft – and bring cooling air down as they disappear into the tunnel. “It’s also amazing to hear the history of a travel network we take for granted. Did you know, for example, that rather than tunnel through the ground, the original London Underground lines were formed by digging a trench and then effectively putting a lid on it? “If you love London and its

5 THINGS YOU NEVER KNEW ABOUT THE LONDON UNDERGROUND 1. A whopping 1.34 billion people pass through the London Undergound each year, travelling its 250-mile combined length. 2. Every year, 42 million people use Euston Underground station alone. 3. The original, classically designed Euston station building included a grand, 70m high Doric entrance arch, which was sadly demolished in the early 1960s. 4. Up until the 1960s, the Northern Line City branch of the Underground had a narrow (and potentially dangerous) centre island platform. 5. The Victoria line began operating at Euston in December, 1968.

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GUIDE TO LONDON

The Euston tour allows you to explore the former lift shafts.

history, book a place on one of these tours. You’ll see the tube network in a whole new light .” n

GRAB YOUR TICKETS NOW The Hidden London tours are hugely popular and tickets sell out fast. Priority booking is offered to group travel organisers who sign up to the LTM newsletter, and tickets are sold online only. The tours involve lots of walking, and the going can be uneven in places. Children under 16 aren’t permitted. All tours take between an-hour-and-a-quarter and an hour-and-a-half, and anyone taking the tour is offered either a free or half price ticket to the London Transport Museum, which is based in Covent Garden. See the terms and conditions for groups in full at www.ltmuseum. co.uk/whats-on/hidden-london

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RIVER TRIPS

Messing about WWW.VISITBRITAIN.COM

on the river

A trip to London isn’t complete without a boat trip on the Thames. ON THE RIVER

The River Thames is never quiet! There are always boats going up and down – whether it’s commuter boats or sightseeing tours – as well as all the everyday working vessels. And a trip on the river is particularly welcome in the summer when it’s hot. MBNA Thames Clippers (www.thamesclippers.com/ sightseeing-leisure) run commuter boats and trips that are perfect for sightseers, going past the major sights. River Roamer tickets are perfect for a full day of sightseeing as you can hop on and off. Groups get free coach parking if they pre-book Daily River Roamer single or return tickets – and GTOs can save

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25 per cent on the ticket price. Passengers can be dropped off at one of the main London piers and the coach can be parked at The O2 while they enjoy their day. Group size must be 20 or more for coaches and 15 for minibuses. Email sales@thamesclippers. com or call 020 7001 2201 to book. Similar trips are on offer from City Cruises (www.citycruises. com/sightseeing.aspx). It offers afternoon tea, lunch cruises, and the Showboat – a threeand-a-half hour cruise passing Canary Wharf, Greenwich and the Thames Barrier, while your group enjoys sparkling wine on arrival, a four-course meal, live entertainment and then dancing until late.

GUIDE TO LONDON

This year, celebrating 60 years since Elvis Presley’s first hit single Heartbreak Hotel got into the UK charts, you can join the Elvis ‘Rock the Boat’ Dinner Cruise, complete with Elvis tribute act, dinner and sparkling wine. Groups of 20 or more generally get a 10 per cent discount on City Cruises, and it is also possible to hire a boat if you have a large group. Call 020 77 400 400 for details. For an extra special trip you can choose a dining cruise, such as those run by Bateaux London Dining Cruises (www. bateauxlondon.com). To get a private dining experience, dining rooms are available for some groups at no extra charge. There are two boats to choose from – the Harmony,

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with the largest open deck on the Thames, or the Symphony, which has an all-glass structure that allows for uninterrupted views of the capital as you cruise past.

Why not combine a dining cruise with a ‘flight’ on the Coca-Cola London Eye? You could choose to enjoy a British Afternoon Tea cruise, or perhaps a lunch cruise with audio commentary. If you have a music-loving group, the Sunday Lunch Jazz Cruise might appeal, or go for a romantic evening choice with a Dinner cruise with modern British cuisine and live entertainment. Combine with a ‘flight’ on the London Eye, taking in the sights across the city. Alternatively, explore the city on board the Harmony while tucking in to pastries, sandwiches and scones, and then enjoy a West End show, such as Let It be or Mamma Mia! If you’re after something a bit more thrilling than a sedate river cruise, buckle up and take a ride on the Thames Rib Experience (www. thamesribexperience.com). With the biggest and fastest boats on the river, passengers can choose from a number of experiences. The Canary Wharf Experience lasts 50 minutes,take a longer trip to the Thames Barrier or a

The Millennium Bridge

CYCLE TOUR How about a cycle tour along the Thames? Merry Pedaller Bike Tours (www.merrypedallerbiketours.co.uk/) has a number of routes including an ale tasting tour that takes in the University Boat Race route and can include a picnic tea in Syon Park. Group discounts are available, call 0208 893 3508 or email info@merrypedallerbiketours.co.uk

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

GUIDE TO LONDON

20-minute blast from Tower Pier or The O2. The trips take you through the financial district at Canary Wharf or venture further down river to The Thames Flood Barrier, or Greenwich. The O2 and The Thames Flood Barrier. Groups can also enjoy

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RIVER TRIPS special bespoke experiences, including the Ultimate Spy, which includes an onboard quiz and cocktail shaker, or the Ultimate Treasure Hunt. Call 020 3613 2352. Next, to a ship that doesn’t move at all – HMS Belfast (www.iwm.org.uk/visits/ hms-belfast) is anchored near London Bridge, the London Bridge Experience (www. thelondonbridgeexperience. com) and Borough Market (http://boroughmarket.org. uk/). The nine decks of this World War Two ship will reveal the secret of what life was like at war and at sea. (Only two decks can be accessed without climbing ladders.) Coaches can drop off in Tooley Street. Book a private tour for up to 12 guests with one of the Ship’s Company to hear tales of how sailors survived in freezing conditions during the Arctic Convoys, what it was like to be one of the first ships firing on D-Day and HMS Belfast’s role as part of the United Nations forces in Korea from 1950 to 1952. Plus get exclusive access behind the barriers for special photo opportunities. Prices are per group and exclude admission – starting from £250. Call Victoria Chan on 020 7766 0141 or email IWMPrivateTours@iwm.org.uk. If you’re up for a laugh, the Tattershall Castle – which is well known as a bar - is

The Houses of Parliament also home to The Boat Show Comedy Club (www. boatshowcomedy.co.uk/) on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. It can also offer private shows from Sundays through to Fridays if you have a large group of between 70 and 150 people. Call 07932 658895 for details. The pub has been recently refurbished and has private rooms for hire for groups, offering buffets and catering. Tel: 020 7839 6548 or email: Tattershall.Events@ stonegatepubs.com Greenwich is served by many of the boats mentioned above, and there’s lots to do when you get there – including a trip to the Cutty Sark (www. rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark) where you can discover what life was like aboard a 19th century tea clipper. Plenty of family events and costumed characters

are included throughout the year, as well as special arts events – for instance, there was a Ceilidh held in the lower levels for St Patrick’s Day – see website for more details of special events. Email: traveltrade@rmg.co.uk or call: 020 8312 6608

A DAY IN GREENWICH

Enjoy an early tour of Cutty Sark including morning refreshments, followed by a guided tour of the National Maritime Museum. Lunch at the Brasserie at the museum, followed by a stroll up the hill going through Greenwich Royal Park to the Royal Observatory. Tour the Royal Observatory and Astronomy Centre and have photos taken on the Meridian Line before walking back to the coach to be picked up. n

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Greenwich

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GUIDE TO LONDON

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Linking London’s Attractions 10% discount for groups of 10+ when booked in advance – sales@thamesclippers.com MBNA Thames Clippers are the fastest and most frequent fleet on the river, serving 21 piers across London, meaning you can see more of what London has to offer.

o h in t Touc ou go sy pay a

Tower

Blackfriars

Canary Wharf

Embankment

Bankside

Westminster

Chelsea Harbour Cadogan

Putney Wandsworth Plantation Riverside Wharf

London Bridge City

London Eye (Waterloo)

Millbank

Emirates Air Line

The O2

Doubletree Docklands

Greenland (Surrey Quays)

Masthouse Terrace

North Greenwich

Woolwich (Royal Arsenal)

Greenwich

St George Wharf (Vauxhall)

Route map key RB1 – Stopping service

RB4 – Doubletree Docklands ferry

Underground

RB1X – Express service

RB6 – Monday to Friday only

Overground

thamesclippers.com RB1/RB5 – Limited service

@thamesclippers Emirates Air Line

RB2 – Tate to Tate service

/thamesclippers

All our boats are wheelchair accessible

Riverside Quarter and Cadogan Piers

National Rail

Mobility scooter users must join our Mobility Scooter Recognition Scheme in advance of travel

Santander Cycle Hire

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All our piers are wheelchair accessible

except for London Bridge, Wandsworth /thamesclippers

Docklands Light Railway

Bikes are permitted

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