November binder

Page 1

November 2017

Ideas & inspiration for groups & families

5 friends + you =

All shipshape! The UK’s best maritime museums

the best group rates!

+

TOUR AGATHA CHRISTIE’S DEVON CRUISE THE SEINE MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS WHAT’S ON IN THE WEST END

The top

30

summer

holiday destinations

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*EARN

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C O MMISSIO N F O R YO UR GRO UP

F RO M O N LY

£279p p

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Welcome

A word from the editor T

HIS YEAR, IN June alone, 7.2 million of

– you can see us in action on page six. It’s

us headed abroad for a summer break

great for walkers as well as horse riders, with

– up 4% on the previous year, according to those in the know at the Office for

miles and miles of sand. Who needs Spain? We’ve also been busy this month, finding

National Statistics. And we must have

you the best deals and checking out the

been feeling flush, as we spent a staggering

attractions worth a visit. Because if you’re

£4.6 billion while we were at it... That’s

a group – and by that we mean anything

an awful lot of sangria – and hands up

from six or seven friends to an entire coach

who wants to do it all again next year!

load – there’s much money to be saved. Go

Our special feature on page 92 is full of

to grouptraveloffers.com for up to

inspiration to help you plan your 2018

64% off theatre tickets, days out

summer holiday, with group-friendly ideas

and boat trips. Until next month...

Group Travel World, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX Switchboard: 01733 293487 Web: www.grouptravelworld.com ISSN: 2048-3392 EDITORIAL

Editor: Helen Milbank

for city tours and beach breaks. And if

E. helen.milbank@grouptravelworld.com

the wonderful British coast is more your

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

style, we have that too. Recently, my friends and I grabbed our horses and

■ Need attraction & show tickets? Get the best deals at grouptraveloffers.com ■ Looking for a new job? Visit traveljobsworld.com

Editor

Contributors: Sue Parslow, Naomi Mackay, Angela Youngman, Jade Milnthorpe, Louise Murgatroyd, Antonia Stratford, Paul Ovington and Mike Bugsgang

had a canter along fantastic Holkham beach on the north Norfolk coast

ADVERTISING

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

Page 6

Client Manager: Paige Fraser T: 01733 293245 E: paige.fraser@grouptravelworld.com SUBSCRIPTIONS/MARKETING

OGRAPHY LILY HILL PHOT

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

Page 82

GROUP TRAVEL OFFERS

Trade account managers: 0800 024 8070 MANAGEMENT VISITBRI

WWW.ALANKENNYPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

TAIN

General Operations Manager: Harley Denham T: 01733 293249 E: harley.denham@grouptravelworld.com Publisher: Jonathan Taylor E: jonathan.taylor@grouptravelworld.com

© 2017 GTW Media Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or system or in any means without the written permission of the directors. This is considered a breach of copyright and action will be taken where this occurs. This magazine must not be lent, sold, hired or otherwise disposed of in a mutilated condition or in any authorised cover by way, or by trade, or annexed to any publication or advertising matter without first obtaining written permission from the directors.

This month’s cover star is Lindos harbour in Rhodes

Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @GTWMagazine, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ grouptravelworld and join our Linkedin group Group Travel World Magazine

Group Travel World magazine is read by

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

COACH COA OACH TOURISM T

ASSOCIA ASSOCIATION

NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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Save £££s! Need tickets to top attractions & West End shows? For the best prices see grouptravel offers.com

12 Discover Agatha Christie’s Devon

55 Hit London’s West End

92 Get the best deals for summer 2018

4 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD NOVEMBER 2017

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Contents Regulars 6 Let’s go...

Head to Holkham Beach on the Norfolk coast

8 News

The latest from the world of travel

50 Discover London Areas

London & Partners showcase Croydon

52 Theatre news

What’s new in theatre land, plus we review Kinky Boots at the Adelphi Theatre

56 Theatre listings

West End shows, as well as touring plays and comedy gigs

78 Industry insider

News from the Coach Tourism Association

80 A majestic visit

Take a tour of Hever Castle & Gardens in Kent

44 Enjoy the UK’s top nautical museums

88 The voice of group travel The latest news from AGTO

98 And finally...

We chat to John Conod of Purity Brewing Co

Features 12 ‘The loveliest place in the world’ A new film version of Murder on the Orient Express is set to inspire visits to Agatha Christie’s home county of Devon

16 Devon’s finest

The county’s top attractions

18 And we’re off...

Embrace all the UK has to offer groups

27 Eastern delights

Discover all Norfolk and Suffolk have to offer

30 The French connection

18 Explore Walmer Castle

37 Visit Birmingham’s Museum & Art Gallery

Cruise the Seine on a weekend trip on board Fred. Olsen’s Braemar

37 Central perks

It’s home to the UK’s finest jewellery and chocolate: we’re off to Birmingham

41 A world of discovery

Take a tour of the UK’s best museums

44 Five of the best... ...nautical museums

66 Luxury a-Peel

We explore the history and fine dining on offer at Hampton Manor near Birmingham – the former family home of the Peel family

68 Live the dream

From ancient abbeys to national parks, explore all that Yorkshire has to offer

74 Wonderful Warwickshire Discover the county’s best attractions

82 In-spired...

The new International Bomber Command Centre in Lincolnshire

86 ‘It’s hard work but I love it’

How a passion for travel led Lin Wilson to launch Solent Events & Leisure

23 See Longleat House & Safari Park

92 Relax in style

Let your imagination run riot as summer 2018 beckons and you enjoy the best holiday deals NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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NORFOLK

Holkham Beach Photos: Lily Hill Photography

Right now, with the holiday season over and the kids back at school, there’s no better time to explore the vast sandy beaches of the stunning north Norfolk coast – either on horseback or on foot. Stretching from the popular harbour town of Wells-next-the-Sea to Burnham Overy, Holkham beach is part of one of the largest National Nature Reserves in the country, and home to several rare species of flora and fauna, from flocks of pink-footed geese to glorious orchids. Combine a visit with a trip to the neighbouring Holkham Hall, an 18th century country house – and see www.grouptraveloffers.com to get discounted entry. ■

Holkham beach is open year-round, and access is via Lady Anne’s

Drive in Holkham village, just off the A149. Parking for cars costs £7 a day (if you’re planning to recreate this photo and take your horse, expect to pay £12 a day to park your horse box). Find out more at www.holkham.co.uk/nature-reserve-beach

GTW

Watch GTW’s editor Helen cantering along Holkham beach at www.grouptravel world.com

6 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD NOVEMBER 2017

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Let’s go...

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News

Work begins on Beamish’s multi-million pound expansion

Back to the future Work has started on a £18 million expansion of Beamish, The Living Museum of the North in County Durham. It’s the biggest project in the attraction’s history, which will see the addition ANNA KUNST PHOTOGRAPHY

PARTY LIKE IT’S THE 1960s

UE TO POPULAR demand, London’s

Royal Court Hotel in Sloane Square (once

Swinging ’60s Experience Tours have

the London base of The Beatles) – takes

returned to the Royal Albert Hall. These fun,

in the Royal Albert Hall, where passengers

immersive tours take groups back to Swinging

are greeted by a friendly, knowledgeable

’60s London, starting with a one-hour tour

guide for a one-hour tour. This takes in

of historic music locations on a vintage double

many areas that are usually off-limits to the

decker London bus, against a backdrop of

public, such as the stunning auditorium that

1960s music and live commentary.

welcomed The Beatles and The Rolling Stones

The tour – which travels along the Kings Road in Chelsea, passing many famous locations, including the

1950s town, farm and a Georgian coaching inn, where visitors can stay overnight. The project has been awarded £10.9 million by the Heritage Lottery Fund, and Beamish will remain open throughout the building programme. Find out more at www.beamish.org.uk

Get in the swing

D

of more than 30 new exhibits, including a

on the same night. For more details and a full list of dates, visit www.60sbus.london

Enjoy a ghostly tour of Hampton Court Palace

Take fright... Hampton Court Palace in Richmond is playing host to Victorian Ghost Tours until March

Well done to Woburn Abbey’s groups co-ordinator, Lisa Weaver, who’s been crowned Coach Tourism Professional of the Year 2017!

2018, giving groups the chance to it in an Woburn Abbey

eerie new light. Hear spine chilling stories of past residents, visit the spot where two bodies were discovered in shallow graves in the 1870s, and experience the chilling atmosphere of Henry VIII’s state apartments, including the deserted palace courtyards. The tours run on selected Fridays and Sundays, and groups of 15 or more get a 10% discount. See www.hrp.org.uk

Set sail

Make history in 2018

The River Cruise Line has launched a new brochure for 2018, focusing on the

There’s good news for group organisers

Plus, group prices have been held for 2018.

four-star MS Serenity – which has recently

planning a trip to Woburn Abbey. Next year’s

The attraction will also continue to offer joint

undergone a £700,000 refurbishment

season at the Bedfordshire attraction has

visits with Bletchley Park and Woburn Safari

– and including sailings on the Dutch

now been extended until October 28 – with

Park, as well as Woburn Abbey and Gardens

Waterways, Rhine and Danube. Find out

highlights including the hugely popular Woburn

visits tailored to your group’s needs. Find out

more at www.rivercruiseline.co.uk

Abbey Garden Show, from June 23-24.

more at www.woburnabbey.co.uk

8 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD NOVEMBER 2017

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PARTY AT SEA Celebrate your special occasion at sea Enjoy a 2-night mini cruise to Amsterdam, with up to 5 hours exploring this wonderful city from just £94pp. It’s a unique party experience for groups of 10+. Includes: • Glass of champagne & personalised cake • Buffet breakfast both mornings • Buffet dinner & ½ bottle of wine on one crossing Find out more at dfds.co.uk/party

NEWCASTLE-AMSTERDAM NDFDS.CO.UK/PARTY Price is subject to availability & based on 4 sharing sea view cabin. Credit card charges apply. T&Cs apply.

2145 - Group Travel World Ad.indd 1 FP Template.indd 9

24/05/2017 16:16 02/11/2017 10:57


News Crocodiles of the World

Peterborough Cathedral DRUM ROLL PLEASE

And the winners are...

T

■ Crocodiles

of the World in Oxfordshire

– a unique attraction, which houses one of the globe’s most diverse croc collections. Find out

O CELEBRATE THE attractions that go the

our pick of the best group attractions, and this

more at www.crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk

extra mile for groups of every size, we’ve

month’s award-winners include:

■ Peterborough

operates attraction passes in more than 30

launched the Group Travel World Awards. “Judged by the GTW team, we’re excited to

Cathedral in Cambridgeshire,

The world-leading Leisure Pass Group, which

which celebrates its 900th anniversary next year

destinations across the US, Europe and the

spread the word about the places that can

with a Katherine of Aragon festival in January

Middle East. From London to Barcelona (as

guarantee a fantastic group experience,” says

2018 (Henry VIII’s first wife is buried there).

experienced by the GTW team this month),

editor Helen Milbank. Each month we’ll select

Join in the fun at visitpeterborough.com

find out more at www.leisurepassgroup.com

Fly to the city

The new groups reception area at Stonehenge

London Southend Airport has launched up to 16 direct flights a week between London and Glasgow with Flybe, offering passengers the chance to avoid the bigger, more congested city airports. Find out more at www.flybe.com

Expert support A well-known face in the travel industry, Lynda Denton (née McDairmant) has launched a new business venture, Tell Tale part of the tourism and

A bigger, better welcome

hospitality industry

Stonehenge is set to become an even bigger

Marketing. “I’ve been

Other improvements at the site include a

for nearly 25 years, latterly with Gretna

draw for groups thanks to its new groups

new groups-only shuttle pick up point next

Green Ltd, and have many great friends

reception, which opened last month. In the

to the new reception building, which goes

in the industry,” says Lynda, who will now

heart of the recently completed 52-space

direct from the coach park to the Stone Circle.

offer marketing and communications advice

coach park, the building will make trips to the

Groups of 11 or more get a 10% discount on

and hands-on support to businesses in the

world famous ancient attraction simpler and

entry to Stonehenge, and one tour leader and

travel industry as a freelance consultant. Find

easier, and marks the completion of phase two

coach driver go free. Group tickets must be

out what she can do to help you grow your

of a major improvement project started by

pre-booked – call 0370 333 0604 or email

business at www.telltalemarketing.co.uk

English Heritage in 2016.

bookstonehenge@english-heritage.org.uk

GTW

10 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD NOVEMBER 2017

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Days out

Tower into view 5 reasons why Durham Cathedral’s a must for groups this winter...

1

IT’S HAD A £10M REVAMP

and the North East, including St Hild and

groups from Monday to Saturday (9.30am

Following a £10 million investment,

St Ebbe. Discover how they came to become

to 5pm), and on Sundays from 1pm to 3pm.

visitors can now enjoy Open Treasure, a new

saints and why they were so highly regarded

Pre-booked groups of 12 or more get a range

world-class exhibition experience at the

in the region.

of exclusive benefits, with a group rate of

heart of the cathedral. It gives visitors access to previously hidden spaces within the magnificent claustral buildings, showcasing

VISITENGLAND/THOMAS HEATON

the cathedral’s collections so they can be

3

IT’S ILLUMINATING This month, the spectacular Lumiere

just £5 each. Group packages are available for either a free-flow visit with a self-guide leaflet each in a variety of languages, or a

Festival takes place in Durham from

guided tour of the cathedral, which lasts just

discovered and enjoyed by many more

November 16-19. The UK’s biggest light

over an hour. Further focus tours and talks

people of all ages. Tickets cost £7.50, and

festival, expect massive installations by

are also available for more special interests,

you can upgrade to a £10 ticket, which

international artists that will turn Durham

including selected behind the scenes tours

includes a guided tour.

Cathedral and other major buildings in the

for an additional supplement.

2

IT’S THE ULTIMATE SISTER ACT The cathedral’s playing host to its Saintly

Sisters exhibition until February 17, 2018. The exhibition, which launches at the end of this month, reveals the lives and legacies off the female saints who are linked to Durham

city into stunning lightscapes. Previous exhibits have included glowing interactive clouds and lit-up whales in the river (see www.lumiere-festival.com).

4

IT’S GREAT FOR GROUPS The cathedral is open to pre-booked

5

IT’S EASY TO PLAN YOUR TRIP Simply click on the website at

www.durhamcathedral.co.uk or contact the cathedral’s group travel officer by email on visits@durhamcathedral or call 0191 374 4050.

GTW

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‘The loveliest

place in the world’

This month, a new film version of Murder on the Orient Express is set to inspire visits to Agatha Christie’s home county of Devon...

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Devon Words: Sue Parslow

A

what better way to indulge an interest in

bringing out the vanity, meticulousness,

Agatha Christie than to take a trip to South

humanity and humour in the man.”

S THE AUTUMN sun warms a picturesque

Devon, follow her footsteps in Torquay and

lawn, a steam train hoots in the distance.

explore her holiday home at Greenway?

It feels a timeless location, one where

Ahead of the film’s premiere, I met with

The film is styled for a modern audience, while still being set in the 1930s. James says: “It has plenty of glamour. Ken’s main

Agatha Christie herself may have sat looking

Agatha’s great grandson James Prichard in

objective was to make everything as

out on the river below, running a clever

the old kitchen at Greenway to learn more

beautiful as he could, and the attention

storyline through her mind centred around

about the new movie. He is chairman and

to detail is extraordinary. The train itself is

passengers on a certain special train...

CEO of Agatha Christie Ltd, and had the

beautiful and the interiors stunning.”

A new film version of Murder on the Orient Express premiers this month, with a

role of executive producer on the film. James hinted about a few special

James was just six years old when his great grandmother died. He remembers

stellar cast, led by director Kenneth Branagh

flourishes in the film. “The opening

her as the writer, but also, of course, as

in the role of Poirot, alongside Judi Dench,

scene is fantastic,” he says.

‘Me-ma’ the family person. “She was a very

Johnny Depp and Michelle Pfeiffer. The film will undoubtedly inspire renewed interest in our best-loved crime novelist. And

“There’s some scene setting around Poirot. Kenneth presents his character with a magical twinkle in his eye,

private family person,” he says, describing her as “a genius with incredible intellect”. Greenway was Agatha’s holiday home.

Discover Agatha’s very special corner of Devon

NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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Devon She described it as “The loveliest place in the world...” and today’s visitors have the sense it’s probably exactly as the author left it, complete with books and the family’s collected treasures. Managed by the National Trust, it has a relaxed, informal feel. Upstairs you can wander into Agatha’s sun-lit bedroom

Murder on the Orient Express is in cinemas this month

and peer into the wardrobe to see the clothes and the travel trunks that she and her husband took on their epic travels to the Middle East on the Orient Express, when it was the quickest and most comfortable way to travel. Long distance journeys like these enabled Agatha to observe other travellers and gather material for her stories. She scribbled ideas in the red notebooks she carried with her, using them for reference as she created the intricate plots that would entangle them. According to James, his great grandmother would hatch the entire plot in her head

Greenway: the house Agatha bought for just £600 in 1938

before sitting down to write the book. “She described writing as like giving birth. She

a trail through a door in the garden wall, then

TRAVEL BACK IN TIME

would walk around with these ideas inside her

down to a magnificent boathouse – the setting

I can recommend travelling by steam train to

head until the plot was fully formed. When it

for the fictional murder in Dead Man’s Folly.

reach Greenway. Take your seat in a sepia

was ready she just sat down and wrote it.” Agatha is quoted as saying that it

SEE AGATHA’S DEVON

carriage at Paignton station and the sight of steam flowing past the window will immediately

didn’t matter where she wrote, as long as

Agatha was born in a smart villa set on one of

she had a sound table and a typewriter.

Torquay’s seven hills. She joined an amateur

Greenway was the exception because this

dramatics group in Babbacombe, socialised

board the ferry to Dartington, then take a boat

was where she would take a break from

with friends at nearby Ansty Cove and swam

upstream to the Greenway jetty. The path up

work. A celebrity in her own lifetime, she

from the women-only beach close to the

to the house is on an incline, but the National

would escape the view of the general public

Imperial Hotel where she sipped cocktails. It

Trust always has transport waiting for boats,

behind the estate’s trees and shrubs.

was fashionable to be in Torquay then — the

so it is possible to get a lift if hills aren’t your

sea air, and specifically the sea water, were said

thing. At the end of your visit to the house,

to have healing powers.

either reverse the journey or pick up the train

While she may not have written her books here, I discovered that she would allow her family to read the finished manuscripts, testing to see if they could guess ‘who dunnit’. Set aside plenty of time to explore the

It is well worth taking a guided tour of

have you transported back in time. Hop off at Kingswear 30 minutes later,

from Greenway Halt back to Paignton.

the town to pick out the landmarks of Agatha’s life and hear the stories about her

35 acres of garden. Even better, jump at the

relationships and escapades. Tour guide

GET ME THERE…

chance of a tour by head gardener Simon

John Risdon has links with the Christie

■ Visit

Akeroyd. There’s a kitchen garden, a plant

family and is very knowledgeable.

greenway for more on Greenway, and

nursery and a huge peach greenhouse. Follow

Look out for the former hospital building

www.torre-abbey.org.uk

where Agatha worked as a pharmacist

■ See

during WW1, opening her mind to the

for more on the Dartmouth Steam Railway

concept of plant-based poisons.

■ Sue

If poisonous plants are of interest, head

Agatha’s great grandson, James Prichard

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/

www.dartmouthrailriver.co.uk stayed at The Grand Hotel in

Torquay where Agatha Christie spent

to Torquay’s Torre Abbey to view the

her honeymoon (www.grandtorquay.

gardens. Head gardener Ali Marshall can

co.uk), with murder mystery dinner

be booked for a tour in which she’ll tell

entertainment by Candlelight (www.

you about the colourful planting around

candlelightmurdermystery.co.uk)

the medieval ruins, and explain, with

■ The

impressive knowledge, about her Agatha

place annually in mid-September in

Christie-inspired poison garden. They

Torquay, with talks, performances and

grow as decoratively as any other plants

tours. See www.iacf-uk.org

Agatha Christie Festival takes

GTW

here, only with dark and deadly secrets!

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far more than a steam train ride Great Rates for Groups

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Devon

Find out more about the attractions Devon has to offer at www.devon topattractions.com – and for holiday ideas see www. visitdevon.co.uk Clovelly’s famous donkeys

The beautiful south

Get away... TLH Leisure Resort Torquay is made up

Agatha Christie loved Devon for good reason...

I

of four hotels, interlinked on a single site and offering year-round leisure and entertainment for groups. Choose from

F YOU WANT a year-round destination with

and coastline. The county’s also home to

the TLH Toorak, TLH Carlton, TLH Victoria

beautiful beaches, spectacular scenery and

award-winning theme parks and farms, zoos,

and TLH Derwent hotels, all of which are

aquariums and outdoor activity centres.

three-star. Self-catering apartments are

lots to see and do, head to glorious Devon. It’s home to two national parks, five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and two cosmopolitan cities. It boasts more than 300

Devon is a year-round destination, and here’s just a taste of what it has to offer...

also available. Visit www.tlh.co.uk Groups are also offered a warm English Riviera welcome at the Redcliffe Hotel

miles of coastline, has a wonderful choice of

CLOVELLY VILLAGE

attractions and fantastic local food.

The historic fishing village of Clovelly near

of grounds next to Paignton’s main

Bideford is best known for its traffic-free

beach, with views across Torbay from

the South West Coast Path, climb Haytor,

streets, where the only horse power you’ll find

Torquay on one side to Brixham on the

enjoy the beaches, discover its history and

is of the donkey variety. Home to an award-

other. See www.redcliffehotel.co.uk

heritage and indulge in a Devonshire cream tea.

winning visitor centre and café, your tour starts

From ‘moor to sea’ Devon has it all. Walk

Devon has more than 40 top-rated visitor

in Paignton, which stands in three acres

here with a quick history lesson (did

attractions, which include castles, botanical

you know, for example, that

gardens and stately homes, as well as award-

Clovelly was once owned by

winning steam railways, narrow gauge trams

the Queen of England?).

and boat cruises that sail along Devon’s rivers

Visit www.clovelly.co.uk

STUART LINE Based in Exmouth, Stuart Line Cruises offers a fantastic range of short cruises and day trips along the Devon coast,

WIN!

A trip for two to Yarn Market Hotel in Exmoor – see www.grouptravel world.com to enter before December 1, 2017.

River Exe and Exeter Canal, from the

The South Devon Railway

SOUTH DEVON RAILWAY The award-winning South Devon Railway is a 14-mile return steam train journey along the glorious Dart Valley, from Buckfastleigh to Totnes. Find out more at www.

southdevonrailway.co.uk

75-minute River Exe Cruise (just £6) to the

SEATON TRAMWAY

three-hour winter guided bird watching cruise

Operating narrow gauge electric trams between

(£10). Take a virtual tour of the modern, comfy

Seaton, Colyford and Colyton in East Devon’s

boats at www.stuartlinecruises.co.uk, and if

glorious Axe Valley, Seaton Tramways runs

you’re not a good sailor, take comfort from the

alongside the River Axe estuary through two

fact there are no waves to rock the boat!

nature reserves. See www.tram.co.uk

GTW

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Devon KENTS CAVERN Step into the Stone Age at Kents Cavern, part of the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark, and hailed as one of the most important Stone Age sites in Europe. As you walk through the extensive labyrinth of caverns, you’ll be surrounded by 400 million year old rocks and spectacular stalagmites and stalactites. Expert guided tours reveal how the caves were first formed – and how stalagmite floors came to eventually seal in the evidence of Ice Age occupations. The attraction sits just one mile from Torquay, and special events held throughout the year include next month’s ‘Carols in the Caves’ event, on December 14. Plan your trip and take a virtual tour at www.kents-cavern.co.uk

THE DONKEY SANCTUARY For the past 45 years Devon’s famous Donkey Sanctuary has been transforming the lives of donkeys and their owners across the world. Its Sidmouth base is home to hundreds of donkeys and the largest collection of mules in the country, and groups are welcome to meet the animals and find out more about the Step into the Stone Age at Kents Cavern

DISCOVER

charity’s work. The sanctuary is open every day of the year and entry is free. Find out more at www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk

South Devon Railway

National Trust

Brewery Tour

Agatha Christie

UNESCO Geopark

Torre Abbey

DEVON’S

HIDDEN SECRETS KENTS CAVERN

AND MORE

Torquay, Devon, TQ1 2JF • 01803 215136

WWW.KENTS-CAVERN.CO.UK NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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Combine a visit to Dover Castle with nearby Walmer Castle (see right) MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

And we’re off...

From castles and abbeys to crocodiles, let’s embrace all the UK has to offer

338,000 British and French troops from Dunkirk during Operation Dynamo in 1940. While just a few miles along the coast, Walmer Castle is best known for being the former residence of the Queen Mother – and the grounds surrounding the pretty seaside castle include a garden created to mark her 95th birthday. Get me there: Visit www.english-heritage.

DOVER CASTLE & WALMER CASTLE

of parking, free entry for group organisers

org.uk/dovercastle and www.english-

and coach drivers, and the English Heritage

heritage.org.uk/walmercastle

Kent

group discount of 15 per cent off the normal

One day, two castles... groups can first

admission price for groups of 11 or more.

WOBURN ABBEY & GARDENS Bedfordshire

discover the story of Dover Castle during both

Highlights for visitors to Dover Castle

world wars, then make the short hop by coach

include the Secret Wartime Tunnels, which

A former winner of the Coach Friendly Visitor

to nearby Walmer Castle & Gardens – the

housed the nerve-centre of operations for

Attraction of the Year award twice over,

much-loved haunt of the Queen Mother

Winston Churchill and Vice Admiral Ramsay

Woburn Abbey & Gardens offers group

as they masterminded the evacuation of

discounts, free recce visits for group organisers,

Both coach-friendly castles offer plenty 18 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD NOVEMBER 2017

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MARC MILLAR

Days out

The Royal Yacht Britannia

Need tickets? Get your day trip off to the best start at grouptraveloffers .com

Longleat’s Festival of Light launches this month

Walmer Castle & Gardens

a £10 refreshment voucher for coach drivers

Throughout the year it’s home to country

for the royal family and crew.

and free parking.

fairs and special events, including ‘Ragley by

Get me there: Groups of 15 or more

Candlelight’ on December 3. Larger groups

get special rates when booked in advance

through the gardens, or explore the 3,000-

are more than welcome, and there’s a special

and a dedicated groups team is on

acre deer park. And joint tickets that include

events team on hand to help make your day

hand to help you plan your trip. Visit

a visit to Woburn Safari Park are available if

a success.

www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk

you want to drive by a herd of rhinos and sit

Get me there: Call the events team on

in a coach that’s covered in playful monkeys...

01789 762090 or visit www.ragley.co.uk

Enjoy a visit to the historic abbey, wander

Get me there: Group discounts apply

BAMBURGH CASTLE Northumberland

for 12 or more if you book in advance.

THE ROYAL YACHT BRITANNIA

Visit www.woburnabbey.co.uk to

Edinburgh

loved castles, and Bamburgh Castle opens

download the 2018 groups brochure.

Holiday home to Her Majesty The Queen and

all year round to groups keen to explore its

the royal family for more than 40 years, The

ancient rooms, museum and grounds. Pre-

Royal Yacht Britannia is now Scotland’s No. 1

booked groups get 20% off the walk-up price,

Warwickshire

Attraction (according to Trip Advisor). A fully

and it has a café that seats 60-plus.

House tours, head gardener talks and

accessible tour of five decks is available, with

Get me there: The castle is very close to

afternoon tea are all on offer for groups visiting

a free tour – in 27 languages – that gives a

the A1. Plan your trip and find out more

this 300-year-old Grade I listed mansion.

unique insight into what life was like on board

at www.bamburghcastle.com

RAGLEY HALL, PARK & GARDENS

It’s one of the UK’s best-known, and best-

NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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Days out FAMILY ATTRACTIONS

LEGOLAND WINDSOR RESORT Berkshire Perfect for Lego-loving groups of schoolchildren. Legoland Windsor Resort puts the ‘theme’ into ‘park’, with Lego-themed rides, models, building workshops, swimming pools and even a hotel (though this is made with conventional bricks). More than 55 interactive rides, live shows and attractions, set in 150 acres of parkland, fly through the treetops to escape fearsome dragons, ride the rapids with a Viking fleet or join Lego divers on an underwater adventure. Get me there: See www.legoland.co.uk for details of all the packages available.

LEEDS MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES

make Legoland a child’s paradise. They can

Popular with groups keen to discover its

Lotherton Hall

history and explore its manicured gardens,

WICKSTEED PARK

Lotherton Hall in Leeds offers discounts

Northamptonshire

Get me there: Special group

for groups of 15 or more. Find out more

With coach parking for up to 30 coaches,

rates are available. See www.

at www.leeds.gov.uk/lothertonhall

a free lunch and refreshments on offer for

jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk/groups

coach drivers and a welcome host available, Wicksteed Park in Northamptonshire is well

THE DUNGEONS

create a unique, walk-through experience

geared up for large groups. The historic park

Nationwide

visitors can see, hear, touch, smell and feel,

has seen huge investment in recent years, with

Bringing history’s more gruesome elements

as each location’s real life past is re-enacted.

a host of new attractions, including a £3m lake

to life, the UK’s nationwide network of

restoration project. It’s also launched one of

‘Dungeons’ take the art of story-telling to

home to the traitorous plotter Guy Fawkes

the UK’s tallest and longest zip wires – Rush –

another level, and make for an entertaining

and the infamous highwayman Dick Turpin?

which has a top speed of 40mph and is as high as a six-storey building.

group trip full of black humour and spooky tales.

Set in 147 acres of parkland, with theme park attractions including rollercoasters and rides, Wicksteed Park has been entertaining day trippers since 1921. Get me there: Visit www.wicksteedpark.org

The Medieval Raby Castle in County Durham re-opens in Easter 2018, offering groups access to its grounds, deer park and walled garden. See www. rabycastle.com

Did you know, for example, that York was

You’ll get to meet them at The York Dungeon, where you’ll also receive a check-up from

Based in London,

the dungeon’s resident plague doctor...

Blackpool, Edinburgh,

Get me there: All five Dungeons around

Warwick Castle and York,

the UK offer scary fun for everyone

each Dungeon tour uses

except very young children, with hefty

high-tech special effects

discounts on offer if you book in advance.

and a cast of actors to

See www.thedungeons.com

JORVIK VIKING CENTRE York The GTW Award-winning Jorvik Viking Centre (winner of our Best Group-Friendly Attraction back in August) re-opened this year following a multi-million pound revamp. Hop aboard the new, improved 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.

Wicksteed Park

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Cliveden Estate National Trust

Cliveden's stunning house and gardens are the perfect destination for a group day out. There's beautiful seasonal floral displays, an outstanding sculpture collection and guided tours. Cliveden welcomes group visits throughout the year, from Monday to Saturday. We recommend you allow three to four hours to see the formal gardens and have enough time to stop for lunch or tea. Cliveden offers pre-bookable guided tours for groups who wish to find out a bit more about the House or Garden.

Free admission for NT members, £10 per non-member adult.

01628 605069

nationaltrust.org.ul</cliveden

© National Twst 2017. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photo graphy© National Trust Images.

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#national trust

02/11/2017 11:08


Where history and adventure combine

Access 500ft underground via the steepest cable railway in Britain

Slate Mill Workshop See slate splitting and signs being made All groups receive samples of

Welsh Slate Cavern Aged Cheddar

Amazing effects

Did you know we sample Welsh Slate Cavern Aged Cheddar?

Discounted rates for groups! Also available 20 minute short tours • Free coach parking Onsite gift shop and friendly café For group enquiries email Marketing Manager ceri@llechwedd.co.uk

www.llechwedd-slate-caverns.co.uk

01766 830306

DISCOVER THE CONTROVERSIAL STORY OF ENGLAND’S LOST KING AT KING RICHARD III VISITOR CENTRE KING RICHARD III VISITOR CENTRE An ideal destination for groups, Leicester’s award-winning attraction offers: • Preferential group rates and dedicated booking office • Catering packages, talks and guided tours available • Free entry for tour leader and coach driver • Free familiarisation visit

BOOK NOW

for your group Christmas Lunch

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: WWW.KRIII.COM OR CALL 0116 229 4132

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Days out The garden of Eden

ANIMAL ATTRACTIONS

LONGLEAT SAFARI PARK

Coach drivers are well catered for at

gardens, arts and music events as people

Wiltshire

Cornwall’s famous Eden Project, with free

flock to see the world’s largest rainforest

This month sees the launch of Longleat’s

entry to the attraction, a complimentary

in captivity – complete with waterfalls

hugely popular Festival of Light, which runs

£10 catering voucher, free parking and a

and steamy jungles – stunning garden

from November 5 until January 2, 2018,

well-equipped coach park.

displays, world-class sculptures and more.

bringing fairytales to life in a blaze of colour as dusk falls. Special rates apply to for groups of

It’s all part of the Eden Project’s group-

For a full list of group benefits and ticket

friendly focus, as it welcomes visitors to its

prices, visit www.edenproject.com

12 or more, and Festival of Light day tickets allow you to enjoy the park’s famous safari drive-through, see Longleat House decorates in all its festive glory, watch a Christmas Tree Show and see the festival’s lanterns. Get me there: Find out more at www.longleat.co.uk

KNOWSLEY SAFARI PARK Merseyside Coach trips are welcome at Knowsley Safari Park, where more than 700 wild animals roam hundreds of acres of land. Established in the early 1970s, as well as the popular safari drive-through there’s a walk-around area, a giraffe tower and an elephant platform. More daring groups can also have a go on the world’s biggest urban high

West Midland Safari & Leisure Park boasts a safari drive-through, walkthrough experiences, a Safari Academy for school groups and more. See www.wmsp.co.uk

ropes adventure course and release their inner monkey. Get me there: Visit www.

(www.deepseaworld.com) and The Falkirk

drivers, Scotland’s Blair

Wheel (www.thefalkirkwheel.co.uk).

Drummond Safari and Adventure Park welcomes

CROCODILES OF THE WORLD

groups keen to meet the park’s

Oxfordshire

elephants, bison, camels, chimps, sea lions, rhinos, deer and more.

Crocodiles? In Brize Norton? The answer’s

Get me there: The park re-opens in March,

yes... The UK’s only crocodile zoo is hugely

visit www.blairdrummond.com. And if you

popular with groups and school trips, offering

want to make a weekend of it, popular

keeper experiences, special animal encounters,

Stirling

nearby attractions include the 19th century

talks and more. It’s even won a GTW award

With free entry, free parking and free

Inveraray Jail (www.inverarayjail.co.uk),

this month (see page 10).

refreshments for coach and mini bus

award-winning aquarium Deep Sea World

Get me there: crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk

knowsleysafariexperience.co.uk

BLAIR DRUMMOND SAFARI & ADVENTURE PARK

AND FOR MORE DAYS OUT IDEAS TRY… ■ Warwick

Castle, Warwickshire,

www.warwick-castle.com ■ Arundel

Castle, West Sussex,

www.arundelcastle.org ■ The

Black Country Living

Museum, www.bclm.co.uk ■ Drayton

Manor Theme Park,

Staffordshire, draytonmanor.co.uk ■ The

National Sea Life Centre,

Birmingham, www.visitsealife. com/birmingham ■ The VISIT ENGLAND

Explore Longleat House and its Safari Park

Wales Millennium Centre,

www.wmc.org.uk

GTW

NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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Just nine miles from Norwich this stunning church, founded in 1107, is a heritage gem...    

Guided Tours Refreshments/hospitality Fully accessible Heated in the winter!

Flatford Every time you immerse yourself in the landscape that inspired Constable, you're helping to ensure it stays a masterpiece for future generations. Church Street, Wymondham, Norfolk. NR18 0PH 01953 607 062 www.wymondhamabbey.org.uk

Call 01206 298260 for details flatford@nationaltrust.org.uk When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your support helps us to look after special places for ever, for everyone.

#nationaltrust

F O O

© National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust Images\Arnhel de Serra.

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A traditional market with over 200 stalls. A shopper’s paradise for gifts, clothing and household goods. Bag a bargain today. Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday all year round, 9am - 4.30pm Also open all Bank Holidays and Tram Sunday

et Service Meet and Gre ffers on with special o oach trips pre-booked c

Sat Nav FY7 6AB

• Special packages and group discounts • Heritage tour and afternoon tea • Self-service restaurant • Excellent disabled facilities • Free coach parking and admission for your driver • Free preview visit.

Book now on 0844 880 7667* Find out more at cadburyworld.co.uk Cadbury World, Bournville, Birmingham B30 1JR

*Calls cost 7p per minute plus your telephone company’s network access charge.

/FleetwoodMarket

Fleetwoodmarket.co.uk

Victoria Street / Adelaide Street, Fleetwood, Lancashire FY7 6AB

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02/11/2017 12:07


Days out

Great escapes

From historic houses to Loch-side adventures, you’ll find it all here

you back 160 years and 500 feet below to experience what life was like for miners in the 19th century as you hitch a lift on the cable railway to explore the depths. If you prefer to stick to ground level, take the quarry explorer tour for an off-road adventure into the heard of the Llechwedd mountains; and if you’d rather get hands-on

EXPLORE LOCH LOMOND

home that’s been no stranger to intrigue and

opt for the slate workshop tour. Discounts

A five-star, group-friendly resort, Cameron

gossip over the past 350 years. Many famous

apply for groups, with further reductions

House sits on the banks of Loch Lomond,

politicians visited Cliveden in the post-war

if you do multiple tours. Find out more at

just a short drive from Glasgow city centre.

years of the 1930s, including President

www.llechwedd-slate-caverns.co.uk

Great for lovers of adventure sports,

Roosevelt, and it is best known for being the

walking and wildlife, you can go mountain

infamous meeting place of Christine Keeler and

ENJOY A REALLY WILD SHOW

biking, kayaking, head off for a ‘hawk walk’,

John Profumo – thus igniting the biggest

Home to some of the biggest, wettest

take a seaplane ride or opt for the variety

political scandal in British history.

and scariest rides it may be, but you may

of challenges through their activity partners,

The historic building became a luxury hotel

not realise that Drayton Manor Park in

Amazing Days. One popular choice is the

in 1985, set in 375 acres of National Trust

Staffordshire is also home to a 15-acre zoo

007 Challenge, which takes you on a

owned parkland. Visit www.clivedenhouse.co.uk

– home to an array of fantastic creatures,

journey round the famous loch via 4x4s

for more on the hotel, or www.nationaltrust.

including Red Pandas, Golden Headed

and speedboats. Plan your Scottish short

org.uk/cliveden to arrange a garden visit.

Lion Tamarins and Flame-bellied Zonures

break at www.cameronhouse.co.uk or call 01389 310 777.

DISCOVER CLIVEDEN HOUSE

GO DEEP UNDERGROUND

(as pictured below). Drayton Manor Park offers special

The award-winning Llechwedd Deep Mine

packages for groups of 12 or more, which

takes groups 500 feet underground – via

includes free entry for one organiser per

Cliveden House, on the Berkshire/

Britain’s steepest cable railway – on a mission

coach or mini bus and free parking.

Buckinghamshire border, is a country house

to explore the history of Welsh slate mining

Visit www.draytonmanor.co.uk

and spa housed in a Grade I listed stately

in the 1800s. Its deep mine guided tour takes

or call 0844 472 1950.

GTW

Take a seaplane to explore the shores of Loch Lomond

Meet Drayton’s Flame-bellied Zonures

From ‘hawk walks’ to sea planes, Cameron House has it all

NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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23/10/2017 20:43


National Stud Tours from £11 per person

A visit to The National Stud offers a fascinating insight into the world of thoroughbred horse breeding, a 90 minute guided tour of a beautiful 500 acre stud farm which is home to stallions, mares & foals, is a perfect day out. Large parties welcome by prior arrangement, breakfast, morning coffee, lunch & afternoon tea can be added to your trip in Wavertree’s coffee & gift Shop. from £11

National Stud Tours per person

For more information on a group tour or to book call Discover Newmarket on 0344 748 9200 or email: admin@discovernewmarket.co.uk

National Stud Tours

Discove opport scenes learn ab heritag

National Stud Tours

Discover Newmarket offers a unique opportunity to gothe behind the Meet scenes at racing’s headquarters to learn about the fascinating history, stars heritage and culture of the town.

from £11 per person

National Stud National ToursStud Tours £10 per from person from £11 per

Explore, Discover Be Surprised

Wavertree’s Coffee & Gift Shop is open daily from 9.00am – 4.30pm, group/buffet menus available. Coach coffee stops always welcome with driver incentive for pre-booked stops. from £11 per For more information or to book call 01638 675920 person or email zoe.pattison@nationalstud.co.uk

equine

Discover Newmarket offers a unique

A unique on a five acre person new attraction Discover Newmarket offers a unique opportunity to go behind Meet thethe site in the heartopportunity of Newmarket to go behind the

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email admin@discovernewma

visit www.discovern

scenes atheadquarters racing’s headquarters to scenes at sporting racing’s to All in the royal setting of Charles II’s palace the fascinating and stables, a great day outlearn for allabout the family! learn about thehistory, fascinating history, heritage and culture of the town. heritage and culture of the town. – A new National Gallery of British Sporting Art – Explore the new National Horseracing Museum – Meet former racehorses – Enjoy a delicious meal in The Tack Room Restaurant Visit Meet the offers a unique – Unique gifts available toDiscover buy from Newmarket the Palace House Shop Newmarket’s email admin@discovernewmarket.co.uk t@DiscoverNkt – Ride a winner on a famous racehorse simulator! opportunity to go behind the Discover Newmarket offers a unique Visit stars scenes at racing’s headquarters to opportunity to go behind the visit www.discovernewmarket.co.uk call 03 Newmarket’s For more information: learn about the fascinating history, scenes at racing’s headquarters to T: 01638 667 314 E: info@palacehousenewmarket.co.uk National Heritage Centre, Palaceheritage House,about Palace Street, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 8EP and culture of the town. learn the fascinating history, heritage and culture of the town.

stars

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call 0344 748 9200

Visit Newmarket’s Visit Newmarket’s

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f/discovernewmarket 28/04/2017 03/11/2017 15:42 11:20


Norfolk & Suffolk

Eastern delights Indulge a passion for racing, art and some of the UK’s finest beaches as you explore all that Norfolk and Suffolk have to offer

I

F OUR IMAGE on page six has inspired

If it’s history you’re after as well as beaches,

the sport for the past 350 years, and today

head to Holkham Hall in north Norfolk. In the

Newmarket Racecourse in Suffolk holds 39

beach that hug the counties of Norfolk and

centre of 25,000 glorious acres, it’s home

race days a year, as well as being home to

Suffolk, you’re in good company. Every year,

to events throughout the year, from guided

music nights, family days, award-winning

thousands of holidaymakers flock to the

walks to festive food fairs (for discounted

restaurants and world-class conference and

holiday hot spots of Hunstanton (pictured

tickets see grouptraveloffers.com).

events facilities.

you to take to the miles of wide sandy

here with its stunning two-tone cliffs),

While neighbouring Suffolk is home to

Visit newmarket.thejockeyclub.

Cromer, Lowestoft and the like, or huddle in

Kentwell Hall in Long Melford, Sudbury,

co.uk for details of all the race days and

the cobbled streets of the counties’ smaller,

a moated red brick Tudor mansion that’s

events, choose your date and book in

picturesque towns – think crabbing off

home to extensive gardens and a rare breed

advance to take advantage of a group

the harbour wall at Wells-next-the-Sea.

farm. Its special events throughout the

discount of up to 30% (though these

One of the area’s best-loved towns is

year include next month’s Christmastide

discounts don’t apply to music events).

Great Yarmouth in Norfolk, which has been

events, from December 8-10 and 15-17,

You can turn your day at the races

a draw for holidaymakers for centuries.

complete with Victorian-themed festive

into a Suffolk mini break with Discover

As one of the UK’s top beach resorts it’s

celebrations. See www.kentwell.co.uk

Newmarket, which offers groups the chance

with the Norfolk Broads and several coastal

PLACE YOUR BETS

towns and villages just a short drive away.

It’s known across the globe as the home of

See www.great-yarmouth.co.uk

horseracing, having been associated with

to discover the town’s history, heritage and culture – as well as its famous horseracing connections – on a half- or full-day tour. Visit the yard of a racehorse trainer, the NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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VISIT ENGLAND

the ideal base for an East Anglian itinerary,

27

23/10/2017 20:46


Norfolk & Suffolk famous gallops, the National Stud, the

Holkham Hall in north Norfolk

National Horseracing Museum, the exclusive private members’ club at The Jockey Club Rooms, as well as Newmarket Racecourse. Discover Newmarket acts as a single point of contact, providing tailored itineraries whether you’re an avid racing fan or history lover. It also runs tours on set dates all year round. If you’re staying for more than one day the team can help you arrange accommodation, as well as visits to other attractions within the west Suffolk region. See www.discovernewmarket.co.uk

FEELING ARTY?

A celebrated artist

Flatford in Suffolk is famous for being the

At the National Heritage Centre for

place that inspired John Constable to create

Horseracing & Sporting Art at Palace

some of his most iconic paintings, including

House in Newmarket you can enjoy an

The Hay Wain. Groups can explore the area

exhibition of artist Sir Alfred Munnings’

and its artistic history on a National Trust

drawings, sketchbooks, studies and

guided ramble. Taking place on the third

finished artwork until April 8, 2018.

Saturday of each month, the rambles cover around seven or eight miles.

Highlighting the influence horseracing,

Book via the National Trust website

and the town of Newmarket, played in Munnings’ work, the National Heritage

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/flatford

See grouptraveloffers.com for cheaper entry to Holkham Hall

REFUEL IN STYLE Need a pit stop on your eastern counties foray? The Anglia restaurant chain has it

Centre has partnered with The Munnings Art Museum in Essex to present this

Southwold in Suffolk

exhibition of racing scenes. The exhibition

covered with its Fatso’s Speak-Easy, Castle Carvery and Artorio’s Mediterranean Taverna eateries throughout East Anglia. Travel back

writing, the angst of ‘the tortured artist’

to 1920s America with Fatso’s Speak-Easy’s

in trying to achieve the true likeness

salads, steaks and seafood, or keep it classic

of a Thoroughbred to be scrutinised

with a roast and all the trimmings at the child-

by patrons and horse lovers alike.

friendly Castle Carvery. While at Artorio’s you

Find out more and plan your visit at www.palacehousenewmarket.co.uk

VISIT ENGLAND

also exposes, through Munnings’ own

can experience typical Mediterranean fare. Find out more about all three restaurants at www.angliarestaurants.com

GTW

Suffolk’s Flatford Mill was the inspiration for painter John Constable

Bure Valley Railway in Norfolk welcome groups, with a Christmas VIP lunch package available in November and December. See www.bvrw.co.uk 28 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD NOVEMBER 2017

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A moated, mellow red brick Tudor mansion in a tranquil parkland setting A 40 year restoration project with an unrivalled ability to captivate the visitor • House, Gardens and Rare Breeds Farm • Guided Tours for pre-booked groups

Tudor History Day

• The home of historical events – step back in time • Dedicated schools events • Special family events • Open-air theatre, opera and cinema • Scaresville, East Anglia’s award-winning Scare Attraction • Tearoom and Gift Shop • Great discounts for groups

Rare Breeds Farm

Magical Weekend

Tudor History Day over 30 acres of gardens

Dickensian Christmastide

Wartime Weekend

The Great Hall

For more information, please visit our website at www.kentwell.co.uk or call 01787 310207 KENTWELL HALL • LONG MELFORD • SUFFOLK CO10 9BA • enquiries@kentwell.co.uk

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The French connection

What better way to get a taste for cruising than on a weekend trip along the glorious Seine on board Fred. Olsen’s Braemar... Words: Helen Milbank

W

EEKEND TRIPS DON’T come any

to lash. As it turned out, we did hit choppy

better than this: hop on board Fred.

seas overnight – and we were all stumbling

Olsen’s impressive Braemar at Southampton,

through the smart Thistle Restaurant like

wake up in Rouen, spend the day exploring

drunkards! But I actually found it quite exciting.

Monet’s glorious gardens, head back on board

In fact I loved the trip the moment I got

for dinner, spend the next day sailing leisurely

on board. Car parking’s easy (Fred. Olsen

along the Seine, then hop back across the

suggest you pre-book valet parking with ABP,

Channel to wake up in Southampton on

and that’s a tip definitely worth following),

Monday morning. Have I tempted you yet?

check in‘s relaxed, and before you know it

As a first-timer cruiser, I must admit I arrived

you’re on board and your bags are unpacked;

in Southampton a tad edgy. Would the ship

in fact, they’re already waiting for you at

rock much? That was my biggest worry as the

your room. All very civilised. Cue plenty

wind ripped round the port and the rain started

of time to have a wander round and get

30 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD NOVEMBER 2017

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Cruise holidays Helen (third from left) at Monet’s Gardens

Braemar sails all over the world, from Channel hops to the Caribbean

The top decks of Braemar make a fantastic vantage point as the French countryside passes by

your bearings – the most important points

a river boat, is the view you get as you tower

to locate being the best viewing spot up

above the picture postcard villages and towns.

Braemar facts

AT HOME WITH MONET

was initially called Crown Dynasty, before

on deck and the bar, obviously.

ALL SHIP-SHAPE

■ Built

in 1993 in Valencia, Spain, the ship

I’ll be honest, I’m not exactly Monty Don, but

entering Fred. Olsen’s service in 2001.

I was there courtesy of a Fred. Olsen fam trip,

hats off to whoever decided to take us on a

■ It’s

and joined by a number of travel organisers

Saturday morning excursion to Claude Monet’s

wide and has a gross tonnage of 24,344.

keen to try out the ship’s facilities ahead of

gardens in Giverny, an hour or so’s coach trip

■ The

their group’s next sojourn. One couple had

from our berth in Rouen.

with a crew of 371.

already signed up for the company’s new

Split into two parts, a flower garden and a

month-long holiday, taking in the sights and

Japanese-inspired water garden, our wonderful

wonderful wildlife of Madagasgar; others were

guide, who spoke fantastic English, painted

interested in the many shorter trips Fred. Olsen

(pun intended) a fabulous picture of the great

offers on board its four-strong fleet, Braemar,

man’s life, family and quirks.

Balmoral, Boudicca and Black Watch. While the five-deck Braemar seemed huge

As she held her spotty brolly up for us to

■ It

more than 195 metres long, 22.5m ship takes 929 passengers,

travels at an average of 17 knots.

Back on board, we had time to relax before dinner – this time in a far more stable Thistle Restaurant, so any swaying was our own doing.

follow, we had plenty of time to soak up the

An optional mini coach trip to see Rouen

to first-timer me, I soon learned that it’s

gardens, nose around his house and get all the

Cathedral’s fabulous night-time light show was

actually small by cruise ship standards, with a

19th century gossip. Word is that he took up

dimmed only by the drizzle.

shallower hull that allows it to navigate rivers,

with his friend’s wife after his own wife’s death.

such as the glorious Seine (which, I have to say,

Oh, the scandal!

is far prettier than I ever imagined). The added bonus, I quickly discovered, with going on a river cruise on a ship, as opposed to

It was a fascinating visit, topped off by

SAIL AWAY While I loved my outing chez Monet, the

coffee and lunch in the restaurant right

highlight for me was Sunday’s cruise along the

by the gardens.

Seine. Children ran through their gardens NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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23/10/2017 20:49


Cruise holidays waving at us, bikers bibbed their horns and

rolled past, was a moment I’ll never forget.

the countryside turned from riverside hamlets

I have to give a shout out too to the chefs

GET ME THERE…

to larger towns and forest-lined banks.

on board, who do a fantastic job of keeping

Fred. Olsen has won awards for its

Rouen is as far as ocean-going ships, like

everyone well fed. We dined in the Thistle

group-friendly approach, and a range

ours, can reach due to low-slung bridges, but

Restaurant both nights, and the food was

of special incentives are available,

it’s 75 miles from the sea’s edge, which makes

top-notch. If you prefer, you can upgrade to

including free travel for group organisers

for a decent few hours’ cruising.

The Grill or Grampian Restaurants, or wander

on selected cruises, funding towards

over to the slightly less formal Palms Café,

transport to and from the port or airport,

from the edge to hop in the onboard pool

where buffet-style food’s served morning,

and free group drinks on board (terms

(lovely and warm, in case you‘re ever there).

noon and night. There’s also the Marquee Bar

and conditions apply, speak to the group

At one point I managed to drag myself away

And having the pool to myself, while the banks of the Seine

and Bookmark Café. In short, you won’t go hungry – or

e GTOs Helen and th emar ra B d on boar

sales team for details). To see all Fred. Olsen’s holidays, and

thirsty for that matter. Upgrade, as we

for a copy of its group travel brochure,

did, to the all-inclusive package, and

visit www.fredolsencruises.com, email

you can enjoy wines, beers and certain

group.sales@fredolsen.co.uk or call the

spirits as part of the deal. My only

group sales team on 01473 746169.

word of warning is to leave your Facebooking until you get home as the wifi is expensive on cruise ships. First cruise under my belt, I’m a

great way to cram a lot into a small space of

convert after just one weekend. It

time – all done at a leisurely pace. Who could

was a fantastic experience and a

ask for more?

GTW

Rouen Cathedral’s fantastic light show

32 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD NOVEMBER 2017

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23/10/2017 20:49


All inclusive upgrade, only

£15 pppn*

French Rivers & German Waterways with Fred. Olsen

With over 20 itineraries, ranging from five to 14 nights in length, there’s a spectacular selection of European cruises to choose from in 2018. Discover traditional towns, captivating cities, scenic waterways and stunning rural landscapes. On many occasions you’ll reap these rewards only thanks to the smaller scale of the Fred. Olsen fleet, as we take you closer. We have hand-picked a selection of our scenic ocean river cruising itineraries, perfect for travelling as a group. Please contact us for a group quote today or to enquire about any other destinations.

Cruising the Seine

German Waterways with Kiel Week

French River cruising to Bordeaux

German Waterways & Bremen Beer Festival

24th May 2018 5 nights • Southampton Braemar • M1813

21st June 2018 9 nights • Dover Boudicca • D1811

23rd August 2018 8 nights • Southampton Braemar • M1821

19th October 2018 9 nights • Newcastle Balmoral • L1833

From £649pp

From £1,199pp

From £1,149pp

From £999pp

For group enquiries please contact the Group Sales team on 01473 746 169 or email group.sales@fredolsen.co.uk Fares are per person, based on twin occupancy of the lead-in twin cabin, subject to availability. Offers may be amended or withdrawn at any time without prior notice, are subject to availability &cannot be applied retrospectively. All bookings are subject to Fred. Olsen’s standard terms & conditions, available on our/their website & on request. *All Inclusive Upgrade offer covers selected beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks, subject to availability. Tours, tips, premium drinks, medical facilities and other optional spend, during travel to the ship and while on board, are not included. Any additional expenditure will need to be paid separately. All Inclusive Upgrade Package must be booked at least 8 days prior to departure. E&OE.

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PE8 6

Steam the Nene Valley between rural idyll and historic city

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8 miles north of Peterborough

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Show review Next year’s show will be held on October 11, 2018 – see www. grouptravelshow .com ct g ob in m er 2017 • NEC Bir

O

ha

th

12

m

&

What a show that was! Here are three things we learned from last month’s Group Leisure & Travel Show at the NEC... Simon Calder is excited about the future of travel

From left, GTW’s Paige Fraser, Emma Parkes, Tra cy Snooks of Vis it Peterborough an d Emily Dougall

included travel writer, broadcaster and Senior

a travel expert and I’ve crunched some

Nicholas Owen’s a huge fan of trains

Travel Editor of The Independent, Simon

numbers,” Simon explained. “Statistically

BBC news reader and Group Leisure &

Calder. His take-away statement? “I’m a

speaking, there’s never been a safer time to

Travel Show star speaker Nicholas Owen

firm believer that travel is the antidote to

travel, largely due to improvements in road

revealed he’s always harboured a dream

ignorance,” he told us. Talking of the possible

safety abroad. It’s perfectly natural to worry

to be a train driver. Indeed, when he

effects of Brexit on the travel industry, Simon

about terrorism, but my advice would be

appeared on Celebrity Mastermind back

explained that while we live in uncertain times,

to forget about that risk and instead avoid

in 2005, his specialist subject was the

there has never been a better time to travel.

texting when you cross the road!”

railways of south east England!

The star line-up in the show’s seminar area

“I was a mathematician before I became

GTW

The UK is THE best country if you’re a garden lover Also making an appearance in the seminar

staggering £5 billion. Chris’ favourites? There

area at the show was award-winning gardener

were many, but among them were Crathes

and BBC presenter Chris Beardshaw.

Castle in Aberdeenshire (www.nts.org.uk/

“In the UK we have more gardens open to

Visit/Crathes-Castle), Biddulph Grange

the public than anywhere else in the world,”

near Stoke-on-Trent (www.nationaltrust.

he told us. “A huge number of them – around

org.uk/biddulph-grange-garden), and

2,700 – are gardens of national importance,

Wollerton Old Hall Garden in Shropshire

and the garden industry in Britain is worth a

(www.wollertonoldhallgarden.com).

TV’s Nicholas Owen revealed his love of train travel

NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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23/10/2017 20:53


NO W SA LE N O 20 18

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Newquay Torquay Weymouth Bournemouth Isle of Wight Eastbourne Llandudno

Call 01202 638 841 or visit daishs.com facebook.com/daishsholidaysforgroups

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02/11/2017 12:13


Birmingham The Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery is home to the largest collection of Anglo-Saxon gold ever found

Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter makes 40% of all the jewellery sold in the UK Be a chocolatier at Cadbury World

Central perks

It’s home to the UK’s finest jewellery and chocolate makers... We’re off to Birmingham

the journey can be arranged for corporate groups, private parties and hen nights. As the Industrial Revolution developed, local manufacturers, such as Matthew Boulton, were at the forefront of scientific and philosophical thought. Boulton and James Watt developed the steam engine at Boulton’s factory. Boulton’s home was Soho House and it has

Words: Angela Youngman

A

‘ancient and modern’, and variations of

now been restored as the Georgian mansion FASCINATING CITY, BIRMINGHAM

century the canals were a significant factor

he knew, complete with a vast steam-heated

has much to offer visitors.

in the development of the first industrial

bath and the first central heating system to

Explore its chocolate heritage, discover

revolution, acting as a transport highway

be installed in an English home since Roman

the incredible Jewellery Quarter, or

for Birmingham’s manufacturers.

times. Not surprisingly, the house became

visit the heart of Balti cuisine.

Today, you can take a tour of that same

the gathering point for the Lunar Society,

canal network via Sherborne Wharf Heritage

whose members included Erasmus Darwin,

by a major transportation network, it’s

Narrowboats, through quiet stretches of canals

Josiah Wedgwood and Joseph Priestly, who

easy to see how Birmingham developed

past the National SEA LIFE centre. School trips

engaged in a lively exchange of ideas each

into a major metropolis. From the 18th

can book special tours showing Birmingham

month (access is by guided tour only).

Right in the heart of England, surrounded

NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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23/10/2017 20:56


Birmingham FIND OUT MORE... ■ www.sherbornewharf.co.uk ■ www.birminghammuseums.

org.uk/soho ■ www.cadburyworld.co.uk ■ www.nationaltrust.org.uk/

birmingham-back-to-backs ■ www.alternativetours.

co.uk/jewellery-quarter ■ www.birminghammuseums.

ANNA M GIBSON PHOTOGRAPHY

org.uk/bmag

BACK TO BACK The National Trust’s Birmingham Back to Backs

The Pen Museum

are rare examples of a specific type of working class house built in the 19th century, in which

THE SWEET SMELL OF SUCCESS

through the attraction. Visit the Aztec

two rows of houses were built back to back

Head to Bournville, just four miles outside

Jungle, Advertising Avenue, the Chocolate

around a communal courtyard.

Birmingham, to discover a fascinating part

Making Zone, the newly revamped Purple

of the city’s heritage. Back in 1879, Richard

Planet and the 4D Chocolate Adventure

groups to take a journey through time to see

and George Cadbury decided to move their

Zone, an interactive cinema experience.

what life was like in these houses, starting in

chocolate factory out into what was then open

All visits are by guided tour only, enabling

Exclusively available for groups, the

the 1840s and ending in the 1970s when the

countryside, setting up a ‘factory in a garden’,

attraction’s popular Heritage Tour takes

last inhabitants left. Some of the stairs are very

complete with a purpose built village for its

visitors on a walk down memory lane,

steep and winding, so groups with mobility

workers. Now, Cadbury World, an award-

combining an informative talk about the

problems can enjoy a special ground floor tour.

winning exhibition, explains how chocolate is

Bournville Village and the Cadbury family

made, the origins of Bournville, the history of

with a fully guided tour around Cadbury

A JEWEL IN THE CROWN

chocolate and the Cadbury story itself.

World. Special discounted entry rates are

One of the most fascinating areas of

available for groups of 15 or more.

Birmingham is its Jewellery Quarter, which

Groups can enjoy a self-guided tour

makes approximately 40% of all the jewellery sold in the UK, and houses the world’s busiest Assay office. The area has over 200 listed buildings, plus museums, art galleries and over 100 specialist retailers. Alternative Tours can create bespoke group itineraries around the area, including a visit to the Pen Museum – reflecting the time when the area was the world centre of pen making – and a Victorian coffin works factory. Add to this exclusive discount shopping vouchers to use at many of the specialist stores, visits to ghostly catacombs, historic buildings trails, the Balti Triangle – where curry reigns supreme – and St Paul’s Gallery, which houses the world’s largest collection of signed rock album prints. A much earlier type of jewellery is displayed at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Here, the Staffordshire Hoard is on display Sarehole Mill

– the largest collection of Anglo-Saxon gold ever found in the UK. Equally outstanding is the museum’s collection of Pre-Raphaelite art,

The Shire of Middle Earth

which is the largest in the world, containing over

The 250-year-old Sarehole Mill is best

inspiration for the creation of the Shire of

3,000 paintings, drawings, prints, decorative

known through the work of JRR Tolkien.

Middle Earth. Every September there is an

art and design. Special group tours for up to 25

It was in this area that Tolkien spent

annual Middle Earth Festival. See www.

people can be arranged, focusing on either the

much of his childhood and it provided the

birminghammuseums.org.uk/sarehole

Pre-Raphaelites or Treasures of the Museum, as well as bespoke tours and study days.

GTW

38 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD NOVEMBER 2017

037-038 GTW Nov 17 Birmingham hm.indd 38

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A UNESCO World Heritage Site with breathtaking Norman architecture, the Shrine of St Cuthbert and the tomb of the Venerable Bede. - Group packages - Guided tours & behind the scenes talks - Open Treasure exhibition experience - Undercroft Restaurant & Cathedral Shop Booking essential to make the most of your visit. Durham Cathedral, Durham DH1 3EH Groups: 0191 374 4050 General: 0191 386 4266 visits@durhamcathedral.co.uk www.durhamcathedral.co.uk

ORDER, ORDER

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02/11/2017 12:24


Days out See salt as you’ve never seen it before...

A world of discovery This winter, take a tour of the UK’s best museums... Words: Naomi Mackay

IN THE NORTH

LION SALT WORKS MUSEUM

to a dirty, grimy Victorian Leeds. It’s the year 1842, and you can find out how patients

Also nominated for the 2017 Museum of the Year award was Manchester’s People’s History Museum. Recent history is the focus of this free museum, and groups can pre-book a self-guided visit or choose a tea and tour package. See www.phm.org.uk

had to endure surgery without anaesthetic,

Cheshire

and discover what scientific discoveries led

Voted the UK’s Best Heritage Project, and

to the major medical breakthroughs.

their own ceramic piece, including lunch

shortlisted for the 2017 Museum of the Year

Get me there: There are discounts

and an expert-led tour of the museum.

award, Cheshire’s Lion Salt Works Museum

for groups of 10 or more, visit

Get me there: Group packages are available

re-opened two years ago after a £10m

www.thackraymuseum.org

for 15 or more. Visit www.ironbridge.org.uk

restoration. Visitors can discover the story of salt and its impact on the people, landscape

IN THE MIDLANDS

COFFIN WORKS

and industry of the region, with interactive

IRONBRIDGE GORGE MUSEUMS

displays and a sound and light show that

Shropshire

recreates the steam of its huge open pans.

As part of their recent 50th anniversary

a trip to Newman Brothers – a Birmingham

Free parking, a play area, butterfly garden,

celebrations, the Ironbridge Gorge Museums

company in the old Jewellery Quarter that

shop and café complete the package.

have created several new packages and tours

produced some of the world’s finest coffin

Get me there: Discounts apply for groups

for groups.

furniture, including the fittings for the funerals

of 10 or more, and visits can be combined

Take a step back in time to the 1960s with

The six-hour Very Victorian Tour begins

with trips to the nearby Weaver Hall Museum

with a visit to the Coalbrookdale Museum of

and Workhouse, the Anderton Boat Lift

Iron and Old Furnace, then travels back 100

or Marston Park. Visit lionsaltworks.

years to experience the sights, sounds and

westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

smells of a former era at Blists Hill Victorian

THACKRAY MUSEUM

Birmingham

Town. Lunch can be enjoyed at one of the museum’s cafés, or groups can tuck into

Leeds

traditional fish and chips. The final stop is

For blood, guts and gore pay a visit to the

a visit to Jackfield Tile Museum. While at

Thackray Museum of surgery where children

Coalport China Museum, groups can get

(or adults) can play at setting up a 19th

creative at a full-day bowl making workshop

century operation. Be taken back in time

with tuition to help make, decorate and glaze

Birmingham’s Coffin Works

NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

041-042 GTW Nov 17 Museums hm.indd 41

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23/10/2017 20:57


Days out of Winston Churchill and the Queen Mother. Exclusive guided tours are available for

Explore London’s museums by boat

groups of 15 or more. Costumed guides

If you’re visiting the Tate galleries or looking

pier for the Tower of London. And hop off

will lead you around the factory where

for a museum off the beaten track, MBNA

at Embankment pier for a short walk to

you’ll experience the sights, sounds and

Thames Clippers can connect you to

the National Gallery and National Portrait

smells of factory life. You can also have tea

London’s cultural highlights.

Gallery in Trafalgar Square and the London

and cake in the 1960s-style waiting room,

Jump on the service from Millbank

designed to capture the atmosphere of the

pier to Bankside pier, which offers easy

Newman Brothers’ staff café, complete

access between Tate Britain and Tate

Bridge pier to visit the Old Operating

with vintage china. Combined tickets to

Modern every 45 minutes. Hop off at

Theatre and the Clink Prison Museum.

the nearby Pen Museum are available.

Greenwich to visit the Cutty Sark, the Royal

Then take the river boat to St George’s

Get me there: Visit www.coffinworks.org

Observatory and the National Maritime

Wharf for a short walk to the London Fire

Museum. See Tower Bridge from the

Brigade Museum in Lambeth. Find out more

water before stepping ashore at Tower

at www.mbnathamesclippers.com

London’s new Postal Museum takes visitors underground

IN WALES

THE NATIONAL ROMAN LEGION MUSEUM

IN LONDON

THE POSTAL MUSEUM

Transport Museum in Covent Garden. Alternatively, take a boat to London

just what they did for us! Experience the sights, sounds and smells of the beautiful Roman Garden, and at weekends and

Newport

in school holidays, children can try on

Find out what life was life for legionnaires in

replica armour and experience the life

the furthest outpost of the mighty Roman

of a Roman soldier.

Empire in Wales. The Romans built a fortress

Get me there: Guided and behind the

at Caerleon in AD75, and it would guard

scenes tours are available for groups,

the region for over 200 years. Learn what

with a discount in the museum’s shop.

made the Romans a formidable force and

Visit museum.wales/roman

Explore Bristol Museums’ five sites

Clerkenwell Today we take snail mail for granted, but a visit to the latest heritage attraction to open in the capital will open your eyes to its history. The Postal Museum opened this summer, taking visitors through five centuries of first-class curiosities. As well as the museum itself, entry includes a trip into the subterranean world that has been hidden from the public until now. Descend into the old engineering depot of Mail Rail – the 100-year-old little-known Post Office railway – and board a miniature train that will transport you through its narrow tunnels. Get me there: Visit postalmuseum.org

THE SCIENCE MUSEUM Kensington

AND DON’T MISS...

■ Kendal

It’s world-famous, home to award-winning

■ Bristol

Lake District, which has one of the

exhibitions and collections, and free (though

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, M Shed,

donations are welcome to help support its

the Georgian House Museum, the Red

See www.kendalmuseum.org.uk

work)... what’s not to love about London’s

Lodge Museum and Bristol Archives.

■ The

Science Museum? You can take an immersive,

See www.bristolmuseums.org.uk

Claverton Manor near Bath, where you can

virtual reality trip into space with astronaut

■ The

discover the history of America, from its

Tim Peake, design your very own gaming

branches – IWM London, IWM North,

early settlers to the 20th century, in the

controller and explore the worlds of science

IWM Duxford, Churchill War Rooms and

only museum of Americana outside the

and technology.

HMS Belfast. See www.iwm.org.uk

US. See americanmuseum.org

Museums’ five attractions – the

Imperial War Museum at its five UK

Museum, on the edge of the

largest taxidermy collections in Europe. American Museum in Britain at

GTW

Get me there: Find out more at www.sciencemuseum.org.uk 42 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD NOVEMBER 2017

041-042 GTW Nov 17 Museums hm.indd 42

23/10/2017 20:57


Opening 21 November 2017

HELEN ALLINGHAM A leading Victorian watercolour artist of iconic rural and garden scenes.

WATTS GALLERY - ARTISTS’ VILLAGE Galleries • Chapel • Artists’ Home & Studios • Tea Shop • Discounted admission for groups • 10% discount in the shop • Exclusive tours and talks with guides Surrey GU3 1DQ • wattsgallery.org.uk • 01483 813589 May 2017 copy.indd431 FP Template.indd

BOOK NOW 23/08/2017 11:10 13:57 02/11/2017


Days out See the Mary Rose at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

NAUTICAL MUSEUMS

FIVE of the

best

HMS Warrior

Royal yachts? Sail this way. Shipwreck booty? You bet... It’s time to board the UK’s top nautical attractions

1 Drift back in time

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Hampshire

For one of the most fascinating nautical-

The 45-minute

For more on The National Museum of the Royal Navy’s nine sites across the UK (including Portsmouth’s The National Museum HMS Victory), visit www.nmrn .org.uk

Special events include

themed days out to be had, head to

Harbour Tour is a must.

next month’s Victorian

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. You can take

This mini-excursion,

an audio tour of HMS Victory to learn about

included in your all-

the fall of Admiral Nelson during the Battle of

attraction ticket, takes

Trafalgar, and see the exact spot where he fell;

you around Portsmouth

step on board HMS Warrior – a warship that

harbour and the naval

never fired a shot in anger – or go even further

dockyard, offering unrivalled

back in time to learn about the excavation of

views of the modern Royal

the Mary Rose and life on board Henry VIII’s

Navy, with glimpses of the UK’s

favourite ship, before taking a tour of the

largest-ever aircraft carrier, HMS Queen

Get me there: Find out more and plan your

fascinating harbour.

Elizabeth, when she’s in her home port.

trip at www.historicdockyard.co.uk

Festival of Christmas (December 1-3). While on December 8, groups of friends or workmates can enjoy a traditional Victorian Christmas celebration with

carol singers, mulled wine and Christmas fare on board HMS Warrior.

44 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD NOVEMBER 2017

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02/11/2017 12:12


Days out

2

Exploration Wing, with new galleries focusing

Sail into battle

on Pacific Exploration, Polar Worlds, Tudor

The National Maritime Museum, Greenwich

and Stuart Seafarers and Sea Things. Younger visitors can play in the free AHOY!

Want to grab a selfie with one of London’s

Britain’s most dramatic naval stories, with

children’s gallery and the All Hands children’s

most photographed artworks? Then get

collections covering everything from the Battle

gallery – and everyone else can take a break

yourself to Greenwich. The National Maritime

of Trafalgar and First World War sea battles

in the Parkside Café and Terrace overlooking

Museum may not be on the coast, but it’s

to Turner’s sea-inspired artwork and feats of

Greenwich Park.

definitely at the heart of maritime heritage.

engineering and discovery.

Get me there: Visit www.rmg.co.uk/

This is the place to learn about some of

Due to open in autumn 2018 is The

national-maritime-museum

The National Maritime Museum

3 Speed into the 1800s The Cutty Sark, Greenwich

Just a short walk away from The National Maritime Museum is the Cutty Sark, the world’s only surviving tea clipper and

Southampton’s SeaCity Museum

the fastest ship of her time. Head to the ship’s wheel on the main deck and enjoy stunning views of the River Thames and

A Titanic outing

the London skyline, before

The Cutty Sark is a major tourist

checking out the interactive

attraction, but probably the most famous

exhibits. Look out for the

ship in the world is the doomed Titanic.

colourful characters who will

At SeaCity Museum in Southampton

fill you in on some of the details

you can find out more about the city’s

of the ship’s fascinating past.

connections with the ship – a city where

And, as she’s a tea clipper, what

more than 500 households lost a family

tea, with homemade scones, cakes and sandwiches on offer, along with a pot of Cutty Sark tea. Get me there: Visit www. rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark

The Cutty Sark

NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM, LONDON

better place to enjoy afternoon

member in the tragedy. Find out how people lived and worked on board, and experience the sights and sound of Southampton in 1912, the year in which Titanic left Berth 44 on her fateful journey. Visit seacitymuseum.co.uk

46 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD NOVEMBER 2017

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HADDON HALL Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1LA.

A Chorus of Carols for Christmas

1ST TO 20TH DECEMBER | 10.30 AM TO 4.00PM

Live Music • Seasonal Menus • Gifts Galore www.haddonhall.co.uk / 01629 812855

Steam Trains to the Norfolk Broads

R 5’S UNDE

GO

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Steam Trains to the Norfolk Broads

R 5’S UNDE

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ALL ABOARD FOR A GREAT DAY OUT!

ALL ABOARD FOR A GREAT DAY OUT!

Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6BW Tel: 01263 733858

Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6BW Tel: 01263 733858

Steam Trains to the Norfolk Broads

Steam Trains to the Norfolk Broads

Trains from Aylsham and Wroxham Combined Train and Cruise

www.bvrw.co.uk

D UNTE

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Trains from Aylsham and Wroxham Combined Train and Cruise

www.bvrw.co.uk

D UNTE

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ALL ABOARD FOR A GREAT DAY OUT!

ALL ABOARD FOR A GREAT DAY OUT!

Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6BW Tel: 01263 733858

Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6BW Tel: 01263 733858

Trains from Aylsham and Wroxham Combined Train and Cruise

www.bvrw.co.uk

QP Template.indd 47

Trains from Aylsham and Wroxham Combined Train and Cruise

www.bvrw.co.uk

02/11/2017 13:57


Days out

4 Get in deep

AND DON’T MISS…

The Maritime Museum & The Deep, Hull

■ The

Park & Float ferry ride to the

National Maritime Museum Cornwall,

If you’re planning a trip to Hull, the UK’s 2017

around the Spurn Lightship in Hull Marina.

which sits on the aptly named Discovery

City of Culture, you can enjoy a full day of

Get me there: Visit www.hcandl.co.uk,

Quay in Falmouth. Visitors can learn

nautical-themed attractions.

www.thedeep.co.uk as well as

more about the influence the sea has

www.visithullandeastyorkshire.com

had on history and culture, as well as

Discover the city’s maritime heritage in the free-entry Maritime Museum, which is housed

discovering the maritime heritage of

in the Victorian Dock Offices in Queen Victoria

the region. Groups of 10 or more get

Square. Find out about the whalers’ craft of

a discount on entry, and special talks

Scrimshaw and marvel at a full-sized whale

can be arranged. See nmmc.co.uk

skeleton. Then take a moment to admire the

■ The

spectacular building that houses The Deep,

Yarmouth (www.museums.norfolk.

an aquarium that’s home to thousands of

gov.uk). Housed in a converted

fish as well as a colony of Gentoo penguins. fishing on board The Arctic Corsair, a former deep sea trawler ship, and take a tour

5

Victorian herring curing works, visitors can find out more

VISIT BRITAIN

You can also visit a museum of deep sea

Time and Tide Museum in Great

Explore The Deep

Feel like a queen

The Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh

The Shipwreck Museum in Hastings, Sussex is home to artefacts from many ships wrecked in the English Channel. See shipwreck museum.co.uk

about the town’s fishing heritage and the people who made their living from the sea. ■ The

Watchet

Visitor Centre and Boat Museum in Somerset (www.

Get a taste of what it is to be royal on board

Deck Tea Room, where the royals

the Royal Yacht Britannia, now permanently

would have enjoyed drinks receptions,

moored at Leith, Edinburgh.

sumptuous buffets or played deck games.

the Exmoor National Park and the

On board, you can enjoy freshly prepared,

Quantock Hills, making it great for

one million miles around the world, taking

home-made food and stunning views along

a trip from Minehead on the much-

Her Majesty The Queen and the royal family to

with speciality teas, coffees and lunch.

loved West Somerset Railway – as the

many exotic locations. Explore the five decks,

Get me there: Plan your visit at

station’s right next to the boat museum.

before stopping for refreshments in the Royal

www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk

Also on the same route is the stunning

The Royal Yacht Britannia sailed more than

watchetvisitorcentre. co.uk). Watchet sits between

MARC MILLAR

National Trust Property, Dunster Castle. ■ The

Golden Hind at Brixham Harbour in

Under sea...

Aberdeen harbour. It also includes the

Devon (goldenhind.co.uk). This full-size

Further north still is Aberdeen Maritime

16th century Provost Ross House, along

replica of Sir Francis Drake’s Tudor galleon

Museum, the only museum in the UK that

with a collection that covers the story

was built in 1988 and is the centre piece

has displays on the North Sea oil and gas

of fishing, ship building, sailing ships and

for many Brixham festivals, including

industry. Located on the historic Shiprow,

the city’s relationship with the water.

the famous Pirate Festival in May.

the museum offers fabulous views over

See www.aagm.co.uk

GTW

The Royal Yacht Britannia

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Groups go further at Eden

For bookings and enquiries: groups@edenproject.com | 01726 811903

edenproject.com

The Eden Project connects us with each other and the living world. Reg. charity no. 1093070 (The Eden Trust).

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London & Partners

Discover London Areas: Croydon Home to museums, galleries and attractions, discover why the South London neighbourhood of Croydon is great for groups Photos: Visit London/Antoine Buchet

E

ACH MONTH, LONDON & Partners

Croydon’s Roman and Anglo-Saxon

is diving into London’s diverse

collections, as well as over 200 items from

neighbourhoods to highlight the best

the Riesco Collection of Chinese ceramics,

attractions and hidden gems across the

and learn about local people’s stories in the

capital. This month, we’ll explore the

digital memory room. Croydon Clocktower

burgeoning South London neighbourhood,

also houses a library and arthouse cinema.

Croydon, known as the new home of

Visit museumofcroydon.com

the capital’s street art movement and the ‘Silicon Valley’ of the south. For more ideas and inspiration,

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

BOXPARK CROYDON The South London sibling of Shoreditch’s

visit our travel trade website:

popular pop-up mall is taking the leap south

RISE GALLERY

londonandpartners.com/travel-trade

of the river into Croydon. Boxpark Croydon

Croydon is full of amazing street art, so keep

is a food and beverage only site, with over

your eyes peeled for urban art while walking

200 events planned each year. Walk along the

the streets, but for more, visit Rise Gallery. In

Housed in the landmark Croydon Clocktower

refurbished shipping containers, housing some

this hip art gallery you’ll find contemporary,

building, which was once the Town Hall, the

of the finest and unique food and drink stalls

urban and post-war pop art. Big-name artists

Museum of Croydon is a brilliant, award-

London has to offer, all in one place. Whatever

to have had work displayed here include

winning, fun place to spend a couple of hours

you’re in the mood for, you will find it, from

Damien Hirst, Banksy, Jamie Reid, Rich

and discover the real history of Croydon.

Italian, Mexican and Indian to Taiwanese,

Simmons, Schoony and FAILE. Rise Gallery

Explore the museum’s galleries, including

Lebanese, Brazilian and anything in between.

also offers a selection of interactive graffiti

the Riesco Gallery, where you can see

Find out more at boxpark.co.uk/Croydon

workshops and packages suitable for different

MUSEUM OF CROYDON

OXYGEN FREEJUMPING Bounce around on more than 100

n Boxpark Croydo

ages. For more information, get in touch with enquiries@rise-gallery.co.uk

trampolines, throw yourself into a mega

GET HERE BY...

airbag, take on the walk-the-wall challenge

■ Overground train:

or play aeroball during a fun-filled session

station is connected to East London,

at this entertainment centre in Croydon.

via Whitechapel station, and North

West Croydon

Oxygen Freejumping is the perfect place

London via Dalston Junction station.

for groups to have fun, the centre offers a

■ Rail:

range of fantastic offers for groups of all

easily accessed, with Croydon’s rail stations

sizes. For details visit oxygenfreejumping.

having quick links to Victoria, Blackfriars,

co.uk/locations/Croydon

and London Bridge stations.

Services from Central London can be

GTW

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Entertainment

Your dedicated, responsive and friendly team for all your West End Theatre bookings. Call the award-winning team now!

Freephone 0800 049 8309 reservations@groupsdirect.co.uk www.groupsdirect.co.uk 057_GTW_Mar17_Theatre_Cover.indd 57 FP Template.indd 51 051_GTW_JULY'17.indd 51

23/02/2017 09:10 02/11/2017 17:33 12:11 30/06/2017


Some Mothers Do ’Ave ’Em Joe Pasquale will star as the loveable but accident-prone Frank Spencer in the first ever stage production of the classic 1970s TV comedy, Some Mothers Do ’Ave ’Em, when it goes on tour across the UK next year. Sarah Earnshaw will play his long-suffering wife Betty, and Susie Blake his disapproving mother-in-law, Mrs Fisher. The tour will open at the Wyvern Theatre in Swindon on February 21, 2018. For full tour dates, see www.somemothersdoaveem.com

Courtroom drama London County Hall on the city’s South Bank is playing host to a major new production of Agatha Christie’s Witness for the Prosecution until March 11, 2018. Set in a spectacular court room setting inside County Hall, Lucy Bailey directs this gripping tale of justice, passion and betrayal. Find out more by visiting the website www.witnesscountyhall.com BE AFRAID...

Speaking in tongues The Exorcist has been unleashed onto the

cinemas, where it terrified audiences

Frozen in the West End

West End stage for the first time in its

to the point of passing out. Based on

Doctor Foster star Suranne Jones is to star

40-plus-year history. It will play a limited run

William Peter Blatty’s best-selling novel,

in Frozen – a psychological thriller about a

at the Phoenix Theatre until March 10, 2018,

it won two Academy Awards and became

mother whose child goes missing. Directed by

directed by Sean Mathias.

one of the top 10 highest grossing films

Jonathan Munby, the play has a limited 12-

of all time.

week season at the Theatre Royal Haymarket

Widely considered the scariest movie of all time, The Exorcist sparked worldwide controversy in 1973 when it was released in

Find out more at www.phoenixtheatre london.co.uk/the-exorcist

from February 9, 2018. Find out more at FrozenThePlay.com

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Theatre news Fat Friends: The Musical launches its UK tour this month

Wicked ways Wicked, the West End musical phenomenon that tells the untold story of the Witches of Oz, has announce its 24th extension – with 500,000 new tickets released for performances until December 1, 2018. Find out more at www.WickedTheMusical.co.uk

Fat Friends: The Musical The musical opens

MATT CROCKETT

The full cast has now been announced for the

Kids will love The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show at London’s Ambassadors Theatre from December 13 to January 7. See www.hungrycaterpillar show.com

world premiere of Kay Mellor’s new musical

at Leeds Grand Theatre

Fat Friends. Atomic Kitten Natasha Hamilton

this month, ahead of a

will take on the role of Julia; Kevin Kennedy

UK tour, which will see the

– of Coronation Street fame – will star as

show visit Bromley, Newcastle,

Fergus, and West End favourite Rachael

Hull, Southampton, Sheffield, Southend,

ART hits the stage

Wooding will play Joanne.

Milton Keynes, Norwich, Manchester,

Nigel Havers and Stephen Tompkinson are

Nottingham, Birmingham, Dartford,

to star in the 2018 UK and Ireland tour of

TV drama, following the lives of a group of

Edinburgh, Cardiff, Glasgow, Belfast,

Yasmina Reza’s award-winning comedy, ART,

overweight friends as they struggle with the

Bradford, Aberdeen and Blackpool.

which opens at the aptly-named Cambridge

Best known for being an award-winning

absurdities of modern dieting, Fat Friends has been adapted for the stage by its creator, Kay.

For full show listings and dates, see www.fatfriendsthemusical.com

Arts Theatre on February 14, 2018. Find out more at arttheplay.com

GHOSTLY GOINGS ON

Experience Christmas at the Castle Next month, for the first time ever, an immersive performance of A Christmas Carol will be staged in the magnificent State Apartments at Windsor Castle in Berkshire. Presented by Watch Your Head, in collaboration with the Royal Collection Trust, the family-friendly performances will take place in the castle’s two largest rooms, where the young Princesses Elizabeth and

A Christmas Carol will be staged in Windsor Castle’s magnificent State Apartments

Margaret performed Christmas pantomimes during the Second World War. Featuring live music and immersive elements,

Chamber, where Jacob Marley awaits to conjure

into St George’s Hall to celebrate beneath

his haunting dreams of Christmas Past, Present

the castle’s spectacular Christmas tree.

the audience will be swept into a Victorian

and Yet to Come. A cast of actors and musicians

The evening performances run from

Christmas. Visitors will accompany Ebenezer

will transform the colossal space into Dickensian

December 16–30. For tickets, see www.

Scrooge from the castle gates to the Waterloo

London, before the audience follows Scrooge

royalcollection.org.uk/christmascarol

GTW

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Theatre review The cast of Kinky Boots

MATT CROCKET

Groups of six or more get a discount off tickets!

Kinky Boots

This feel-good tal e has won several top theatre awards

GTW’s Emma Parkes discovers there’s no business like shoe business...

I

T’S HEART-WARMING, HILARIOUS and

and took a short 15-minute walk

winner of the prestigious 2016 Olivier

to Adelphi Theatre on The Strand

Award for Best New Musical... Kinky Boots

(the theatre’s also adjacent to the

takes its audience from the factory floor

Charing Cross tube station in the

to the glamorous catwalks of Milan.

heart of London’s West End).

Charlie Price, played by David Hunter, is

The Adelphi was first opened in the 1930s and boasts beautiful

and continue the family business of Price

Art Deco interiors. The large

& Son. With the shoe factory’s future hanging

auditorium was sold out, and

in the balance, help arrives in the unlikely

is ideal for hosting this larger-than-

but spectacular form of Lola, played by Simon-

life, high-kicking romp of a musical.

Anthony Rhoden – a fabulous performer in need of some sturdy new stilettos.

A DAZZLING SHOW

The show tells the tale of a Northampton

DARREN BELL

struggling to live up to his father’s expectations

power of accepting people for who they are in all walks of life, and I really can’t recommend

shoe factory, which goes from rags to riches

it enough if you want a feel-good night (or

– and from shop floor to the Italian catwalk

afternoon) out. The merchandise available

scene – with help of some rather red Kinky

in the theatre’s shop is also quite fun!

Inspired by a true story, the show was first

Boots. It features the music of Cyndi Lauper,

brought to life on the big screen in 2005,

and I can honestly say that it’s one of the

2018. Find out more and book tickets (with

The show is currently booking until March

and has now taken the West End by storm.

most dazzling, sassy and funny musicals I’ve

a group discount if there’s six or more of you)

I hopped off the tube at Covent Garden

ever seen. It celebrates friendship and the

at www.kinkybootsthemusical.co.uk

GTW

NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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LONDON

STEVE MCNICHOLAS

Theatre

YOUR THEATRE TRIP TO THE WEST END STARTS HERE. VISIT GROUPTRAVELOFFERS.COM FOR THE BEST TICKET DEALS ALADDIN

Times: Mon-Sat 19:30,

Prince Edward Theatre

Weds & Sat 14:30

Booking to: February 2018 Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;

THE COMEDY ABOUT A BANK ROBBERY

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

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

LES MISERABLES

Booking to: December 2017

Criterion Theatre

Queen’s Theatre

Times: Weds & Sat Part One

Booking to: March 2018

Booking to: April 2018

14.00 & Part Two 19:30;

Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;

Dominion Theatre

Times: Tues-Sat 19:30;

Thurs Part One 19:30;

Weds & Sat 14:30

Booking to: January 2018

Sat 14:30; Sun 15.00 & 19.00

Fri Part Two 19:30;

Thurs & Sat 14:30

AN AMERICAN IN PARIS

Times: Mon-Sat 19:30; Weds & Sat 14:00

THE BOOK OF MORMON

DREAMGIRLS Savoy Theatre

Sun Part One 13.00,

THE LION KING

Part Two 18:30

Lyceum Theatre Booking to:

Booking to: February 2018

KINKY BOOTS

Prince of Wales Theatre

Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;

Adelphi Theatre

Times: Tues-Sat 19:30,

Booking to: December 2017

Weds & Sat 14:30

Booking to: March 2018

Weds, Sat & Sun 14:30

February 2018

56 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD NOVEMBER 2017

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JOHAN PERSSON

See the Book of Mormon at the Prince of Wales Theatre

TRISTRAM KENTON

Hit show STOMP is playing at the Ambassadors Theatre

An American in Paris

MAMMA MIA!

THE MOUSETRAP

42ND STREET

THRILLER LIVE

Novello Theatre

St Martins Theatre

Theatre Royal

Lyric Theatre

Booking to: March 2018

Booking to: January 2018

Booking to: February 2018

Booking to: December 2017

Times: Mon-Sat 19:45;

Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;

Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;

Times: Tues-Fri 19:30;

Thurs & Sat 15:00

Tues 15:00; Sat 16:00

Weds & Sat 14:30

Sat 16:00 & 20.00;

MATILDA – THE MUSICAL

PHANTOM OF THE OPERA

SCHOOL OF ROCK

Cambridge Theatre

Her Majesty’s Theatre

Booking to: January 2018

Apollo Victoria

Booking to: May 2018

Booking to: March 2018

Times: Mon-Sat 19:30,

Booking to: December 2018

Times: Tues 19:00; Weds-Sat

Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;

Thurs & Sat 14:30;

Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;

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

Thurs & Sat 14:30

Sun 15:00

Weds & Sat 14:30

MOTOWN THE MUSICAL

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG

STOMP

THE WOMAN IN BLACK

Shaftesbury Theatre

Duchess Theatre

Ambassadors Theatre

Fortune Theatre

Booking to: April 2018

Booking to: March 2018

Booking to: February 2018

Booking to: February 2018

Times: Mon, Thurs, Fri & Sat

Times: Mon-Sat 20:00;

Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;

Times: Tue-Sat 19:30; Sat

20.00; Sun 18.00; Thurs,

Tues & Thurs 15:00;

Thurs & Sat: 15:00

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

Sat & Sun 15.00

Sat 16.00

Sun 15:00

New London Theatre

Sun 15:30 & 19:30

WICKED

NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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Comedy shows CATCH THE COMEDY WORLD’S BIGGEST NAMES AS THEY HEAD OFF ON TOUR... JASON MANFORD

Kendal Brewery Arts: November 30

Eastleigh The Point: November 3

Crewe Lyceum: December 1

Northampton Derngate Theatre: November 4 Newcastle Stand Theatre: November 6-7

Wellingborough The Castle: December 2 Stockton Arc: December 4 Evesham Regal: December 6

BRINKHOFF & MÖGENBURG

Muddle Class

Save on theatre tickets at grouptraveloffers.com

Get cheaper theatre tickets at

Finchley Arts Depot: November 9

Birmingham Town Hall: December 8

Rochdale Bacup Theatre Royal: November 11

Cleethorpes Parkway: December 9

Farnham Maltings: November 14

Wolverhampton Wulfrun Hall: December 11

Northampton Derngate Theatre: February 7

Melton Mowbray Melton Theatre: November 15

Runcorn Brindley: December 13

Bridlington Spa Pavilion: February 9

Sheffield Leadmill: November 16

Lancaster Grand: December 14

Newcastle City Hall: February 10

Finchley Arts Depot: November 17 Torquay Babbacombe Theatre: November 18 Wimbourne Tivoli Theatre: November 19 Crewe Lyceum: November 20 Blackburn The Windsor Suite: November 21 Bristol Redgrave: November 23 Newark Palace Theatre: November 25 Worcster Huntingdon Hall: November 26 Swansea Grand Theatre: November 27

Buxton Opera House: December 15 Eastbourne Hippodrome: December 16 Bexhill De La Warr Pavilion: December 17 Frome Cheese & Grain: December 18

2018 Leeds Town Hall: January 24 Hull City Hall: January 25 Blackburn King George’s Hall: January 26 Blackpool Grand Theatre: January 27-28 Preston Guild Hall: January 31

St Albans Alban Arena: November 28

Halifax Victoria Theatre: February 1

New Brighton Floral Pavilion: November 29

Doncaster The Dome: February 3

We’re excited about... ...the West End theatre deals

Save more than 50% off

on grouptraveloffers.com.

Dreamgirls tickets, and more than 60% off Phanton of the

Ipswich Regent Theatre: February 15 Nottingham Royal Concery Hall: February 16 Sheffield City Hall: February 17 Cheltenham Town Hall: February 28

Milford Haven Torch Theatre: January 26 Weston-super-Mare Playhouse Theatre: January 27 Maidenhead Norden Farm Centre for The Art: February 16 Ilkley King’s Hall: February 17

JON RICHARDSON The Old Man

MARK WATSON

Canterbury Marlowe Theatre: November 7

Berwick-upon-Tweed The Maltings Theatre: November 10

Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre: November 9

Dumfries Theatre Royal: November 11

Glasgow SECC: November 10

Morecambe The Platform: November 17 Whitley Bay The Playhouse: November 19 Canterbury Marlowe Theatre: November 24 Stockbridge The Museum of Army Flying: November 25 Whitehaven Rosehill Theatre: December 1 Malvern Cube: December 8

added every day. There’s no

Bristol Westbury on Trym Village Hall: December 9

group minimum and you can

2018

buy now, pay later.

Monmouth Savoy Theatre: January 19

Opera tickets, with new deals

Potters Bar Wyllyotts Theatre: January 20

grouptravel offers.com

Dundee Caird Hall: November 11 Perth Horsecross: November 12 Aylesbury Waterside Theatre: November 16 York Barbican: November 17 Preston Guildhall: November 18 Southend-on-Sea Cliffs Pavilion: November 21

DAVE SPIKEY

Juggling on a Motorbike 2018 Sheffield Memorial & City Hall: January 18 Durham Gala Theatre and Cinema: January 25

58 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD NOVEMBER 2017

058_GTW Nov 17 Comedy Listings hm.indd 58

23/10/2017 21:10


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

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20 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD SEPTEMBER 2017

Discover the wonder of Waxy O’Connor’s...

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Group Rates & Set Menus available Large Seating Capacity Private Dining Areas

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02/11/2017 11:11


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

THE BAND

Cardiff Wales Millennium Centre: April 10-22

Llandudno Venue Cymru: November 14-25

Stoke Regent Theatre: May 2-13

Stoke Regent Theatre: November 28 - December 9

Blackpool Winter Gardens: May 15-27 Woking New Victoria Theatre: May 30 - June 10

Liverpool Empire Theatre: January 23 - February 3

Canterbury Marlowe Theatre: July 11-22

Norwich Theatre Royal: February 6-17

Milton Keynes Theatre: July 25 - August 5

Canterbury Marlowe Theatre: February 20 - March 3

Bristol Hippodrome: August 8-19

Hull New Theatre: March 6-17

Llandudno Venue Cymru: August 21 - September 2

Leeds Grand Theatre: March 20-31

Leeds Grand Theatre: December 18 - January 6, 2019

Newcastle Theatre Royal: April 3-14

JERSEY BOYS

Bristol Hippodrome: April 17-28

Birmingham New Alexandra: December 16 - January 6, 2018

Birmingham Hippodrome: May 1-12

2018

Plymouth Theatre Royal: May 15-26 Northampton Royal & Derngate: May 29 - June 9

Milton Keynes Theatre: J anuary 23 - February 3 Aylesbury Waterside Theatre: November 6-11 Carlisle Sands Centre: November 13-18

Stoke Regent Theatre: February 6-17

Liverpool Empire Theatre: April 16-21

Hull New Theatre: February 20 - March 3

Bradford The Alhambra Theatre: November 20-25

Venue Cymru Llandudno: April 30 - May 5

Guildford G Live: November 27 - December 2

Canterbury Marlowe Theatre: May 8-12

2018

Nottingham Theatre Royal: June 12-23

Milton Keynes Theatre: April 9-14

Hull New Theatre: April 23-28

Southend Cliffs Pavilion: May 14-19

Cardiff Millennium Centre: January 9-20

Liverpool Empire: June 12-24

Liverpool Empire: January 9-20

HAIRSPRAY

2018

Sunderland Empire: March 20-31

Glasgow King’s Theatre: June 26 - July 7 Edinburgh Playhouse: July 10 - July 14

Glasgow King’s Theatre: April 3-14

MISS SAIGON

NATIVITY! THE MUSICAL

2018

Cardiff Millennium Centre: November 29 - January 6, 2018

Wycombe Swan: May 21-26

Southend Cliffs Pavilion: November 15-19

Southampton Mayflower Theatre: January 22-27

Cheltenham Everyman Theatre: May 29 - June 3

Sheffield Lyceum Theatre: November 22-26

Southampton Mayflower: February 21 - March 17

Sheffield The Lyceum: January 29 - February 3

SHREK THE MUSICAL

Manchester Palace Theatre: November 29 - December 3

Manchester Palace Theatre: March 21 - May 12

Plymouth Theatre Royal: December 6-10

Bristol Hippodrome: May 16 - June 23

Manchester Palace Theatre: January 16-28

London Eventim Apollo: December 13-17

Plymouth Theatre Royal: July 4 - August 4

Sunderland Empire: January 31 - February 11

Leeds Grand Theatre: December 20 - January 6, 2018

Norwich Theatre Royal: August 15 - September 15

Plymouth Theatre Royal: January 15-20

Inverness Eden Court: February 5-10 Nottingham Theatre Royal: February 12-24 Wolverhampton Grand Theatre: February 26 - March 3

Edinburgh Playhouse: December 12 - January 7, 2018

2018

Edinburgh Festival Theatre: January 17 - February 17

Bristol Hippodrome: March 5-10

Birmingham New Alexandra Theatre: February 14-25

Edinburgh Playhouse: March 12-17

Aberdeen His Majesty’s Theatre: February 28 - March 11

Aberdeen His Majesty’s Theatre: March 19-24

Northampton Royal & Derngate: March 14-25

35-piece gospel choir and band accompanies the on-screen nuns

Manchester Opera House: March 26 - April 7

Sheffield Lyceum Theatre: March 28 - April 8

www.sisteractlivechoir.co.uk

The Sister Act Live Choir Show is now touring at cinemas across the UK. See the film like never before, on a huge screen while a live as they sing hit songs from the film. For a full list of dates see

NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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Subscribe to Group Travel World magazine today for your chance to win tickets!

WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO GARDENERS’ WORLD LIVE Five pairs of tickets up for grabs! BBC Gardeners’ World Live – voted best event for groups 2017 – heads to the NEC from 14-17 June, 2018. Subscribe today for your chance to win a pair of tickets to the event!

SUBSCRIBE IN 3 EASY STEPS

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

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The Matinee Shows Created and produced by ONLY E AVAILABL AT

In association with James R Hearn

With a welcome drink, three course meal and a music legend tribute act, it’s easy to understand why groups all over the UK are booking their Matinee Shows with Groups Direct. From West End stars to world-renowned tribute acts such as Elton John, Michael Buble, ABBA and Cliff Richard, The Matinee Shows deliver nothing but the best.

Matinee Show

2018 Dates

Price (Groups 10+)

Masters of the Musicals Frankie Valli Elvis Presley

28th January 8th February 20th February

£45.00pp £39.50pp £37.50pp

8th March

£37.50pp

19th April 3rd May 21st & 28th June

£39.50pp £39.50pp £39.50pp

Cliff Richard

19th July

£39.50pp

ABBA

26th July

£42.50pp

7th August

£39.50pp

6th September

£39.50pp

18th October

£39.50pp

Whitney Houston

15th November

£39.50pp

Michael Bublé

6th December

£59.50pp

Neil Diamond Freddie Mercury Tom Jones Dolly Parton & Kenny Rogers

Shirley Bassey Elton John Barry Manilow

P: 0800 049 8309 E: reservations@groupsdirect.co.uk W: www.groupsdirect.co.uk FP Template.indd 63

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Plan your route for

2018

Bigger

Discounts

London

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

Access to

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

Subscribe www.grouptravelworld. com/subscribe

Exclusive trip

Travel Jobs

invitation

www.traveljobsworld.com

online listing for jobs in travel

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

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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

Call Emma Parkes on 01733 293487 Email emma.parkes@grouptravelworld.com Visit www.grouptravelworld.com/subscribe Oct Subs FP.indd 64

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ENGLISH HERITAGE

G R O U P T R AV E L O F F E R S . C O M

EXPERIENCE 5,000 YEARS OF HISTORY English Heritage cares for more than 400 historical gems, bringing the story of England to life for millions of visitors each year. Book your group’s tickets to any of its properties and sites – from Stonehenge to the Hastings Battlefield – through Group Travel Offers and enjoy: • The best trade & group prices, with tickets from just £2.50 • Book now, pay later* • No group minimum Planning your trip is easy! Visit www.grouptraveloffers.com or call 0800 024 8070 Choose which English Heritage site you’d like to visit Book your tickets – and pay later

Boo k pay now, late r!

*Give us your final numbers, and only pay for the tickets you’ve sold, four weeks before your trip. FP Template.indd 65 016_GTW_June17_GTOffers.indd 90

02/11/2017 25/05/2017 12:16 16:03


Luxury a-Peel Helen Milbank explores the history, heritage and fine dining on offer at Hampton Manor – the former family home of the Peel family that’s now a stylish West Midlands hotel Helen and daughter Georgie relax in the landscaped grounds

I

T DATES BACK to 1066, with a history

in themselves. Feeling statesmanlike? You’ll

as rich as the culinary delights it has on

love the super-sumptuous Lord Mowbray

offer today... Hampton Manor, just a short

room. Prefer regal? Opt for the Henrietta Maria

drive or train ride from Birmingham, mixes

suite (wife to King Charles I and mum of two

heritage with everything you’d expect from

monarchs), with its huge boat bath at the

a high-end hotel – and fine food and drink

end of the bed.

are very much at the centre of its ethos. Best known for its Michelin Star, four AA

We stayed in the Sir Robert Peel room, and it was all I expected and more, with fantastic

Rosette restaurant, Peels (so-called as the

views of the formal gardens and more square

Manor was built for Sir Robert Peel’s son,

footage than my three-bed detached. But

Frederick), the accolades don’t end there.

Hampton Manor is all about the food, and

This year it was awarded the much-coveted

boy do they do a good job. Local products

Michelin Welcome & Service Award, and the

are very much at the fore, whether you’re

hotel’s 15 boutique rooms are an attraction

staying for a ‘tasting’ dinner or afternoon tea,

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Tried & tested The Hampton Manor estate dates back to the 11th century

Afternoon tea, Hampton Manor-style

Hampton Manor is in Hampton-in-Arden, near Solihull. Plan your stay at hamptonmanor .com

A brief history Former Prime Minister Sir Robert Peel – founder of the modern day police force – was the first of two generations to own the estate on which Hampton Manor is built. Sir Robert, who lived close to the estate in Drayton Manor (which is now home to the theme park), spotted the land at Hampton and wanted it for development. However, his plans were cut short when he tragically fell from his horse on Constitution Hill in 1850. In

The hotel is surrounded by a walled garden and woodland

memory of his father, Sir Frederick Peel took the land in Hampton and began building a mirror image of his family home at Drayton in a Neo-Tudor Gothic style. Sir Frederick transformed the

sourced from artisan producers. Even the wine is ‘biodynamic’ (a form of grape growing

landscape and planted the woodland

and wine production similar to the organic

guests at the hotel can walk through

approach, in case you were wondering).

today. He and his family lived happily

We enjoyed a tasting menu that was

at Hampton until he died in 1906

an experience in itself – the highlight

at the age of 82, and many decades

of which was the wagyu beef. But the

later the house was bought by

whole experience, from the rooms, to

hoteliers Jan and Derrick Hill. Today, the place is run by their son

the staff, to the food was fantastic.

James and his wife Fjona, who’ve made it their mission to create a unique

WHILE YOU’RE THERE...

experience for guests. “Although the

Hampton Manor is sandwiched between

building makes quite an impression as

Birmingham and Coventry, and is close

you approach, we’re confident that

to the NEC, the National Motorcycle

what you’ll find inside is an intimate and

Museum and the Genting Arena. For more

luxurious experience that leaves you

on the area and all its group-friendly attractions, turn to page 37.

with the feeling that you’re enjoying The plush Henrietta Maria suite is one of 15 luxury rooms

an occasion with friends in your very own dream home,” says James.

GTW

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Yorkshire

VISIT ENGLAND

The Folly at Stainborough Castle, in the parkland of Wentworth Castle in South Yorkshire

Live the dream

Its ancient abbeys, minsters and follies are as much a part of Yorkshire as its glorious coastline and national parks. This winter, discover its inspiring attractions for yourself... Words: Helen Milbank

A

S THE ICE Age retreated, so Yorkshire

world-famous dales and national parkland

North Yorkshire. Sitting on the picturesque

began to thaw – its early settlers

are rich in Areas of Outstanding Natural

Rye Valley, it’s among the largest and most

drawn to the region roughly 10,000 years

Beauty. From heritage railways to castles

complete remains of its type anywhere in

ago. We’re guessing their idea of a good

and world-class shopping centres, expect

Britain. Part of the immense abbey church

day out largely involved bagging dinner, but

every taste and whim to be catered for.

still stands to roof height and there are

today’s visitors can be a tad more indulgent.

Your mini tour of Yorkshire begins 900

Ancient abbeys and castles line the county,

years ago, with a trip to the monastic

its famous coastline teams with life, and its

remains of Rievaulx Abbey in Helmsley,

extensive remains of the buildings where the Cistercian monks lived and worked. New improvements at the site for groups

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GROUP BOOKINGS WELCOME!

SHARE YOUR

STEAM EXPERIENCE

Reserved seating available Discounted rates Free car for advanced bookings for groups parking available Email group.bookings@kwvr.co.uk for more information

www.kwvr.co.uk

www.kwvr.co.uk

Keighley & Worth Valley Railway Railway Station, Haworth,Station, West Yorkshire BD22 8NJ Haworth Keighley, West

Yorkshire’s Great Little Steam Trains Steam trains run every weekend and daily during school holidays Kirklees Light Railway, Park Mill Way, Clayton West, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire HD8 9XJ T. 01484 865727 info@kirkleeslightrailway.com

Yorkshire BD22 8NJ

kirkleeslightrly

www.kirkleeslightrailway.com

Discover northern England’s dramatic history with a group visit to Newcastle’s imposing Norman fortress. n Dedicated Groups Coordinator n Guided tours available upon request

@KLRailway

www.newcastlecastle.co.uk T: 0191 230 6300 E: info@newcastlecastle.co.uk

GROUP EXPERIENCES n Bespoke packages for a minimum of 40 persons. Options include: n Be greeted by a knight on horseback and/or medieval foot soldiers n A guided tour led by costumed guides n Demos of medieval food and music n Try on armour, handle weapons and watch knights do battle

GROUP RATES Discounted rates available for groups of over 10 persons. (Must be booked in advance) Newcastle Castle is operated by, and a trading name of, The Heart of the City Partnership. The Heart of the City Partnership is a company limited by guarantee #06373460 and a registered charity #11165434.

QP Template.indd 69

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Housed in a Grade I listed former debtors’ prison, York Castle Museum was founded by local GP, Dr John Kirk, and tells the social history of everyday life in the county from Victorian times. Find out more at www. yorkcastlemuseum .org.uk

Harewood House near Leeds

include a bigger café overlooking the abbey, as

COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS

views on the way down (and enjoy a 15%

well as a new shop and visitor centre. And you

Your historic tour continues at world-famous

discount if there are 11 or more of you).

can now view previously unseen architectural

Whitby Abbey. It’s easy to imagine how

stone features in the site’s museum; other

the tale of Dracula emerged once you set

AN ENGLISHMAN’S HOME...

unique objects on display include a 14th

eyes on its haunting remains, with its Gothic

Let’s bring ourselves slightly more up to date

century statue, thought to represent St

towers, pointed windows and lofty position

next with a tour of glorious Harewood House

James the Great, patron saint of pilgrims.

overlooking the seaside town below. Bram

near Leeds in West Yorkshire. You can tour this

Stoker certainly had plenty to feed his

18th century country house – and the 13th

imagination here, and there’s plenty of history

century castle in its grounds – from March

to soak up and enjoy.

to October, with reduced rates for groups

Whitby’s spectacular headland was first

the house, its State Rooms, award-winning

Oswy of Northumbria, later becoming

gardens and more, with special events and

one of the most important religious

exhibitions held throughout the year.

centres in the Anglo-Saxon world under

And, talking of castles, don’t miss Bolton

the formidable Abbess Hild, who ruled

Castle in Wensleydale – one of the country’s

over both men and women in a double

best preserved medieval castles, despite the

monastery called Streaneshalch.

fact it dates back an impressive 600 years.

Today, you can wander the splendid ruins,

Rievaulx Abbey in Helmsley, North Yorkshire

of 15 or more. Experts will take you around

settled as a monastery in AD657 by King

See bird of prey displays in the gardens

marvel at the views of sea, countryside

and feed wild boar in the park, then head

and Whitby town, and explore the site’s

to the tea room to feed yourself. Groups

past at the Mansion Visitor Centre. Our

of 15 or more get a discount and group

tip? Climb the 199 steps up to the abbey

packages and guided tours are available.

if you’re feeling brave and admire the

Another attraction not to be missed is

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Yorkshire JORVIK Viking Centre

Shop in style If there’s one thing Yorkshire does well it’s

A more traditional shopping experience

world-class shopping, and there’s always

is on offer at The Mill Outlet & Garden

time for a spot of retail therapy...

Centre in Batley, West Yorkshire. It’s a

Home to one of the largest outdoor ice

group-friendly haven for shopaholics,

rinks in the UK, you can skate, play, shop and

home to everything from The Edinburgh

dine in Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland, which

Woollen Mill to Radley and Oswaldtwistle

will be heading to York Designer Outlet,

Mills – and it prides itself in offering the best

on the edge of the city, this month. Expect

driver benefits and group discounts in the

a vintage fun fair, Santa in his cabin, live

business. Visit www.themillbatley.com

entertainment and, of course, the skating.

to download its visitor guide for groups.

Then disappear into the shops to save up to

Finally, if the lure of a bargain proves

the glorious York Minster, the city’s cathedral

60% off designer label clothing, accessories

too much, head to Leeds Kirkgate

and one of the largest of its kind in Northern

and homeware. Larger groups of 20 or

Market in West Yorkshire. One of the

Europe. The seat of the Archbishop of York,

more can pre-book and enjoy a meet and

largest indoor markets in Europe, it re-

the Gothic-style minster’s one of the city’s

greet and discounts at some of the shops.

opened last year following a £13 million

best-loved attractions, open daily for services

Visit www.yorkshireswinterwonderland.

refurbishment programme, and is open

and Monday to Saturday for sightseeing.

com and www.mcarthurglen.com/

Monday to Saturday. Find out more at

uk/york-designer-outlet

www.leeds.gov.uk/leedsmarkets

RETURN OF THE VIKINGS Of course, no mention of Yorkshire’s history is complete without a mention of its most

been updated and revamped, with new

actors, immersive sets and some surprising,

famous invaders, the Vikings. And where better

display cases allowing you to get up close

yet often scary, special effects that pull

to explore how they lived – and fought

to genuine Viking artefacts. You’ll have the

visitors into the dark side of the city’s past.

– than at the Group Travel World award-

chance to dig deeper into the Viking story

You’ll meet Vikings, Guy Fawkes, Dick Turpin

winning JORVIK Viking Centre. Following a

of York using the latest in cutting-edge

and carriers of the plague. And audience

multi-million pound re-imagining, it’s now

technology. Plus, the centre’s Viking hosts will

participation takes place in nearly every show,

well and truly back in action, welcoming

be on hand to help bring the period to life.

so don’t expect to sit back and watch...

PLUNGE THE DEPTHS

hold a maximum of 24 people. For larger

experience and be transported back to

It’s been just over a year since The York

groups, they can simply be split into two

the year AD960... Eric Bloodaxe, the last

Dungeon reopened, following a facelift after

or more groups. The bigger the better, as

Viking King in Jorvik, has been expelled

the floods of December 2015. Since then, it’s

the audience’s reaction is a key part of a

and the city is transforming itself. The

gone straight back to being one of the must-

lot of shows. One minute you’ll be Viking

streets of 10th century York are bustling

see attractions in York, and one of the few

slaves, the next you’ll be a baying mob

with the hum of everyday life – and here

attractions made for groups in mind.

at the executioner’s chopping block!

groups to Viking-age York. Hop aboard the new, improved ride

you’ll discover the impact of international

With its series of 10 live shows, each

trade on the city and the people and goods

portraying a different period

that came to Jorvik from all walks of life.

of York’s 2,000-year

The centre’s gallery experiences have RHS Garden Harlow Carr

history, expect live

Tours start every 15 minutes, and can

STAY ON TRACK Marry a tour of Yorkshire’s historic

RHS Garden Harlow Carr in Harrogate, West Yorkshire, welcomes groups year-round. See www.rhs.org.uk/ gardens/harlow-carr

gems with a trip on one of the county’s heritage railways. Staying true to its mantra of ‘Yorkshire’s great little steam trains’ The Kirklees Light Railway near Huddersfield in West Yorkshire has been entertaining railway lovers young and old since the early

1990s – though the origins of the line date back to the mid-19th century. The railway opened in stages – first to Cuckoo’s Nest in 1991, then Skelmanthorpe in 1992 and finally Shelley in 1997. It’s now a thriving attraction, whisking passengers off on a three-and-a-half mile journey between Clayton West and Shelley, taking in views of the South Pennine foothills. Discounted rates apply for groups of 15 or more, and there are tea rooms and NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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Yorkshire We’re loving... ...the all-day pass (complete with comfy seat) you get for just £13 on York’s City Sightseeing Bus. The hop on, hop off tour takes around an hour, but each ticket’s valid for 24 hours, so you can use it to your heart’s content and create your own itinerary as you learn the history of York’s oldest buildings and its rogue inhabitants (Dick Turpin’s buried here following his execution in the city for horse theft). Find out more at www.visityork.org

cafés at several of the throughout the year, and Santa Special services also run over the festive season, as well as Thomas the Tank Engine days, where children can meet the famous engine. Fans of TV’s Heartbeat will

York Minster

IN SEARCH OF ADVENTURE? Then head to North Yorkshire’s

award-winning Forbidden Corner

Emmerdale Village Tour. Enjoy a 90-minute tour behind the scenes of Yorkshire’s bestloved soap, with special group rates for larger groups. Alternatively enjoy Emmerdale’s

love The North Yorkshire Moors Railway,

– hailed as the ‘strangest place in the world’.

Studio Experience Tour to discover how each

which takes in an 18-mile stretch from

A labyrinth of tunnels and chambers, set in

episode’s put together – and round off your

Pickering to Grosmont Stations, with

four acres of garden in the heart of Tupgill Park

tour by pulling a pint in the Woolpack.

the option of a further six-mile hop

and the Yorkshire Dales, strange passages lead

into the seaside resort of Whitby.

to nowhere and you can explore the temple of

visits for group travel organisers, and free

the underworld.

admission and refreshments for coach drivers

The route cuts straight through Heartbeat country, which was filmed in

If you’re after more of a real-world day

and around Whitby and the North York

out, head to Yorkshire’s Wildlife Park, which is

Moors. In fact the area’s now so synonymous

officially the UK’s number one walk-through

with the much-loved TV series that the

wildlife adventure. Home to 400 animals of

village of Goathland is known as ITV’s

70 different species, the park’s open every

Aidensfield, and several sections of the

day bar Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

railway line, including Goathland Station, feature in many episodes (you’ll spot them

GO BEHIND THE SCENES

if you tune into replays of the series

Located within the glorious Harewood

on Dave!).

Estate in Leeds, step into the drama with an

Check out Yorkshire Sculpture Park at ysp.org.uk

VISIT ENGLAND

stations. Special events run

Walk the Yorkshire Dales with walking and activity holiday specialist HF Holidays. Guided and self-guided breaks are available, see www. hfholidays .co.uk

Easy coach drop-off points, free ‘fam’

are just some of the group benefits available. Take the Emmerdale tour

GET ME THERE... ■ www.boltoncastle.co.uk ■ www.emmerdalestudio

experience.co.uk ■ www.english-heritage.

org.uk/rievaulxabbey ■ www.english-heritage.org.uk/

visit/places/whitby-abbey ■ harewood.org ■ www.jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk ■ www.kirkleeslightrailway.com ■ www.nymr.co.uk ■ www.thedungeons.com/york ■ www.theforbiddencorner.co.uk ■ yorkminster.org ■ www.yorkshirewildlifepark.com GTW

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VISIT ENGLAND

Warwick Castle

All bard none! 6 of the best attractions in Warwickshire

1

WARWICK CASTLE

the website for details or give us

It’s one of the county’s best-loved

a call on 0800 024 8070.

attractions, telling the often-gruesome tale of more than 1,100 years of history, magic and myth. Visit Warwick Castle and its grounds to discover the towers, turrets, battlements

2

Groups of 15 or more can enjoy a private tour of the Grade 1 listed Mansion House, and this month it plays host to

Turn to page 98 for more on Warwickshire-based Purity Brewing Company’s awardwinning tours

Find out more at www. stoneleighabbey.org

3

THE ROYAL SHAKESPEARE THEATRE Take a behind the scenes tour

and discover the hidden treasures

STONELEIGH ABBEY Dating back to the 12th century,

Christmas Fair on November 26.

of the world-famous Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon. Tours run on

Stoneleigh Abbey in Warwickshire has a rich

selected dates throughout the year. For more

and more, as well as the interactive attractions

history, and has played host to many a queen

information – and to see full details of what’s

and walk-through adventures. It’s also home

and notary over the centuries, from King

on at the theatre – visit www.rsc.org.uk

to The Castle Dungeon, together with daily

Charles I and Queen Victoria to novelist Jane

shows and attractions.

Austen, whose relative, the Reverend Thomas

And the best bit? You can save more than

Leigh, inherited the abbey. Many believe it was

4

SHAKESPEARE BIRTHPLACE TRUST

40% off the normal entry price through

the model for Mansfield Park, and groups can

grouptraveloffers.com. Plus, there’s no group

take a Jane Austen tour at the abbey (from

Home of Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage – the 500-year-old

minimum and you can buy, now pay later – see

Sunday to Thursday at 1pm).

cottage where Shakespeare courted his

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SAVE UP TO544%

Days out

COVENTRY TRANSPORT MUSEUM

ON YOUR GROUP’S TICKETS! Explore this fantastic, free to enter museum

and discover how Coventry became the centre of the world’s motor and cycle industries.

Shakespeare’s Birthplace

collection of British road transport, and see the actual vehicles that defined some of history’s most important moments, including the fastest car in the world. While admission is free, tickets to the attraction’s new 4D Land Speed Record Simulator cost £3.50 each for groups of 10 or more. Plan your visit at www.transport-museum.com Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

6

RAGLEY HALL Ancestral seat of the Hertford family for

over 300 years, Ragley Hall sits in thousands

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

of acres of glorious Warwickshire countryside.

Susanna lived) and a host of other attractions,

Explore the landscaped gardens and woodland,

this is THE place for fans of the literary giant. www.grouptraveloffers.com Groups are welcome to tour the intimate Tudor Call us free on 0800 024 8070 and Jacobean family homes, and larger groups

VISIT ENGLAND

CHESSINGTON WORLD OF ADVENTURES

VISIT ENGLAND

CONTACT US TO ORDER YOUR COPY OF THE GROUP TRAVEL OFFERS BROCHURE, FULL OF GREAT GROUP RATES AND DISCOUNTS.

Groups can get up close to the planet’s biggest

discover the unique treasures of this Grade 1 listed mansion, or enjoy the many country fairs and outdoor events held on the estate

are advised to book in advance. Discounts are

throughout the year. Upcoming events include

available if there are 15 or more of you, with

next month’s Ragley by Candlelight evenings,

other benefits including exclusive tours,

on selected dates throughout December. Large

reserved seating in the café and more. Based in

groups and coach tours are always welcome.

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

Plan your visit at www.ragley.co.uk or call the

more at www.shakespeare.org.uk

events team on 01789 762090.

£26.50

WARWICK CASTLE

SAVE

GTW

£17.00

SAVE

44%

36%

With 10 themed lands, including the Land of the Dragons and Mexicana, and more than 40 rides and attractions, Chessington World of Adventures Theme Park in Surrey is one of the UK’s top familyfriendly attractions.

Delivering the ‘Castle of your imagination,’ Warwick Castle is ideal for groups of all ages, from six to 60. A fun, action-packed day out is guaranteed as you immerse yourself in 1,000 years of jaw-dropping history.

To get a 44% discount on tickets, visit

To get a 36% discount on tickets, visit

www.grouptraveloffers.com

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October 24, 2017 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 43 NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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074-075 GTW Nov 17 HP Template.indd 75 Warwickshire.indd 75

75

23/10/2017 07/07/2017 16:56 15:56 03/07/2017 17:40 30/05/2017 18:08

23/10/2017 13:22 22:22 02/11/2017


Days out

A gift fit for an earl

GTW’s Emma Parkes enjoys a history lesson with a twist at Kenilworth Castle

N

were dismantled. Leicester’s Gatehouse was converted into a residence, and its ivy-clad ruins eventually became famous as the setting for Sir Walter Scott’s 1821 novel, Kenilworth, which romanticised the story of Robert and Elizabeth. Standing in the heart of the castle we

EVER LET IT be said that the Group

ALL IN THE NAME OF LOVE

learned more of the 12th century Great

Travel World team are afraid to

We stood among the sandstone walls

Mortimer’s Tower, the base court and the

battle the elements. Despite a brisk

of the medieval and early renaissance

inner court, as well as the state apartments.

northerly, Harley Denham and I broke

architecture with our knowledgeable and

The stables are also in the grounds and have

free of the office, destined for the wilds

enthusiastic tour guide, Jan Cooper, as she

been wonderfully restored and converted

of Warwickshire for another successful

talked us through the purpose of the castle

into a fabulous tearoom and museum.

GTW magazine fam trip in the wind-

during its heyday and the origins of its

The Elizabethan gardens, first created

swept grounds of Kenilworth Castle.

unusually tall design. As she explained,

400 years ago, have also been reinstated;

The castle is one of the great historical

it was built originally to be a place of retreat

the centrepiece being a fountain made

sites in the UK; a spectacular ruin where

for armies and not for living in, hence the lack

from Italian marble, which stands in

details, such as fireplaces and stain glass

of any doors or windows on the first floor.

front of the pink aviary, which was

window frames, can still be seen from over

The Earl of Leicester, Robert Dudley, was

the first of its kind in England.

400 years ago. Its ever-changing uses as

given the castle by Queen Elizabeth I as

Fancy following in our footsteps?

a building, as well as royal connections

a gift to deter him from proposing to her

There’s easy access to a large car and

between the 12th to 18th centuries (it was

(quite some rebuff). He converted it into a

coach park at this English Heritage

a royal castle for much of its history and

house, largely for her entertainment – so

property, as well as group discounts and

many of the buildings remain unaltered since

the two were obviously still keen on each

free refreshments for coach drivers. Visit

the reign of Queen Elizabeth 1), are just as

other! – and it wasn’t until years later, in

www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/

fascinating. In short, it’s great place to visit.

the 1650s, that the castle fortifications

places/kenilworth-castle

VISIT ENGLAND

GTW

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23/10/2017 22:23


Group Travel Organisers in action

dIscovEr A LovE AFFAIr IN rUINs He built a tower and garden to woo her but Queen Elizabeth I chose never to marry.

Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 1NG

The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.

HP Template.indd 77

02/11/2017 13:14


Industry insider Join CroisiEurope on a fam trip

Bring it on! Paul Ovington shares the Coach Tourism Association’s latest news

T

COACH TOURISM

ASSOCIATION

the studios where all eight Harry

of the Coach Tourism Association

Potter films were made will be

after four years on the CTA Board,

on November 27. Visit the CTA

as a result of his position as

website for full details.

Head of Coach Sales & Contracts

HE CTA’S 2018 events

handbook is again being published

line-up has now been

on behalf of the CTA by Plum

CRUISE THE RHINE

announced. The 2018 Coach

Publishing. Its editorial and

Experience CroisiEurope’s

Holiday Conference & Workshop

content – including listings of all

premium Rhine cruises on a

and P&O Ferries in Portsmouth,

will take place at Redefine BDL’s

members – will underline the size

river cruise fam trip starting

Stuart joined DFDS in 2011

Imperial Hotel in Blackpool,

and diversity of the UK’s coach

in Amsterdam on board the

and has been responsible for

from February 25-27. It will be

tourism industry. With a print run

MS Symphonie and sailing via

the management of the UK

a two-night/three-day event,

of 3,000 it is sent to members,

Nijmegen, Cologne and Koblenz

coach operator business for

and be combined with the CTA

the press and anyone connected

along the Rhine to Strasbourg.

Dover-Dunkerque, Dover-

AGM. The 2018 CTA Summer

with the coach tourism industry.

The voyage includes full board,

Calais and the Newcastle-

wine with meals, entertainment

Amsterdam services.

BBQ will take place at the Forest Country Club near Birmingham

ENJOY THE CTA CHRISTMAS SOCIAL

on July 29; and the 2018 CTA Christmas Social will be held at

of Arden Marriott Hotel &

at DFDS Seaways being made redundant. Previously with Eurotunnel

and excursions during the voyage.

Away from work, Stuart is

Travel to Amsterdam and back

a director and trustee of the

A fam visit for operators and

from Strasbourg is not included

Isle of Wight Steam Railway,

tour wholesalers to Warner Bros.

and anyone wishing to join this

where he received his 40-year

Strathmore Hotels’ Cairn Hotel

Studio Tour London – The Making

trip should therefore make their

certificate earlier this year.

in Harrogate on November 25.

of Harry Potter, will be part of

own travel arrangements. To

the CTA 2017 annual Christmas

register contact Gabrielle Alam at

Wales said: “I’d like to thank

social and networking event.

galam@croisieurope.com

Stuart for his support and

GRAB YOUR COPY

CTA Chief Executive Chris

contribution to the work

The 2018 CTA Handbook will be

The social is generously being

published to coincide with the

hosted by Marriott Hotels at the

2018 Coach Holiday Conference

four-star Marriott Cheshunt Hotel

FAREWELL TO STUART DUDDY

& Workshop being held at the

in Broxbourne, Hertfordshire on

Industry stalwart Stuart Duddy

will be greatly missed by

Imperial Hotel Blackpool. The

November 26. The fam tour of

has stepped down as a Director

everyone in the industry.”

QHotels held their annual Champagne reception at Searcys St Pancras, which followed on from the announcement that Redefine BDL Hotels is taking over the management of the 26 QHotels. Pictured are QHotels’ Linzi Haigh and Alan Lloyd with Suzanne Craven of Redefine BDL.

Wendy Hannam of Redefine BDL is pictured with Alistair Scott of Gardiners NMC and Joe Parente of ICT (Independent Coach Travel) at the QHotels’ event.

of the CTA. He has been a friend for many years and

The Causeway Coast, Donegal and the northern part of the Wild Atlantic Way were all included in the annual Tourism Ireland fam trip to Northern Ireland. Participants included a number of CTA members, who are pictured at the Lissadell House Heritage Shop in Sligo. GTW

78 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD NOVEMBER 2017

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23/10/2017 22:24


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02/11/2017 14:15


UKinbound: member news

A majestic visit Take a tour of Hever Castle & Gardens in Kent to discover 800 years of history

H

ISTORIC HEVER CASTLE &

its walls by the powerful Boleyn

the gardens only, or £20.50 to

Gardens offers a memorable

family who lived at Hever during

include the castle (subject to

day out for groups. The romantic

the 15th and 16th centuries.

availability). Another option is

double moated castle in the

Its splendid panelled rooms

a tour by one of the gardening

Weald of Kent is famous for being

contain fine furniture, tapestries,

team, mainly covering plants.

the childhood home of Anne

an important collection of Tudor

This costs £16.50 per person

Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII

portraits and artefacts, including

for the gardens only or £18.50

and mother of Queen Elizabeth I.

two Books of Hours signed and

to include the castle. For

inscribed by Anne Boleyn.

those more interested in the

The original medieval castle with its gatehouse and walled

history of the garden, a tour is

bailey was built in 1270, with

NEW TOURS FOR 2018

the Tudor dwelling added within

Private guided tours of the castle

guides. The cost for gardens

or gardens can be pre-booked

only is £16.50 per person, or

for groups of 15 or more.

£18.50 to include the castle.

different garden tours for groups

tour takes an hour-and-a-half,

VISITING IN A GROUP?

on offer. All garden tours run

starting at 10am. It’s a private

Hever Castle is near

from Monday to Friday and can

tour offering the chance to

Edenbridge, Kent. For

start anytime from 10am, with

see extra rooms in the castle

more information, visit

the latest tour at 3pm. The

that are usually closed to the

hevercastle.co.uk/groups,

tours last approximately an

public. Following the tour you’re

email groups@hevercastle.

hour, followed by general entry

welcome to stay in the gardens

co.uk or call the groups

around the gardens.

until closing. It costs £45 per

visits co-ordinator on

person, for a maximum of 15.

01732 861701.

And, in 2018, there’ll be three

Join Hever’s head gardener Neil Miller for a tour of the gardens

available with one of Hever’s

UKinbound is the only travel trade association to focus solely on the interests of the UK’s inbound tourism sector. Representing a diverse membership of over 390 businesses, it engages with Government and the media to highlight the importance of inbound tourism to the economy, and help its members to grow their businesses. Visit www.ukinbound.org or email info@ukinbound.org for more information, and follow UKinbound on Twitter: @UKinbound

Groups can enjoy a tour

The new ‘Hidden Hever’

with head gardener Neil Miller

This tour is for adults only, as it’s

for £18.50 per person for

a longer tour and more in depth.

GTW

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23/10/2017 22:25


w www.excursionsshow.com

Excursions Show

DISCOVER NEW IDEAS FOR GROUP VISITS

DISCUSS YOUR INDIVIDUAL GROUP NEEDS

PLAN AND CREATE YOUR ITINERARY

REGISTER ONLINE

Alexandra Palace, London, N22 7AY • Saturday 27 January 2018 • 10:30am - 4pm

Organised by

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Official Media Partner

02/11/2017 11:11


In-spired… A vast spire of metal reaching high into the sky marks the arrival of a new tourist destination on the outskirts of Lincoln

Words: Angela Youngman

T

county’ as so many of the bomber airfields

media. There’s also a café and roof terrace.

were based here, and it was deemed fitting

The IBCC’s losses database archive is

HE INTERNATIONAL BOMBER Command

to create the new IBCC in a location where

the largest in the world, offering people

Centre (IBCC) is unique, telling a story

many of the doomed crews would have

searching for their family history the

experienced their last ever views of England.

chance to discover details about family

that’s received little attention for more than 60 years. Indeed, in the aftermath of the

members. Much of the database is new,

Second World War, the story of Bomber

THE DAWN OF A NEW ERA

Command was deliberately overlooked:

The new IBCC is home to an exhibition and

its role even omitted from Churchill’s

archive centre, a vast memorial spire and

A FITTING MEMORIAL

victory speech. The events of Dresden and

memorial walls. It has an education area, where

The memorial spire and walls are at the heart

Hamburg had tainted the way in which the

school children can enjoy workshops, and an

of the new centre: the spire standing 31m high,

Command’s other activities – such as the

exhibition area that focuses on the activities

made from two tapering shards of steel. It’s

Dambusters raid – had helped reduce the

of Bomber Command, the divisive nature of its

been carefully designed to resemble the exact

length of the war, and, until very recently,

wartime activities, the stories of those involved,

height of a Lancaster Bomber wing when stood

there was no memorial to those who died.

the manufacturing of Lancaster Bombers, and

on end and, as you look through the gap in the

how the ‘air war’ has been portrayed in film and

two shards, you can see the towers of Lincoln

Lincolnshire was often known as ‘bomber

having been painstakingly researched.

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Lincolnshire

Cathedral – the same sight

Find out more at www. internationalbcc. co.uk

many aircrew saw for the last time as they flew out on a mission. Surrounding the spire are a series of

A series of memorial walls surround the spire

New Zealanders, Poles and even Jews who had

escaped from Nazi Germany. Many more names are still being

abroad. It’s designed to be a permanent memorial to the human cost of war, and a reminder of why peace and reconciliation should be an important part of our lives today. The international peace garden is

memorial walls made out of the same steel,

identified, and will be added in due course.

each containing long lists of names of those

Not all the names are male – there are quite

designed to be a place for reflection, with

who died while serving in Bomber Command.

a number of women too, reflecting their

sculptures representing each of the five

role on the bases and in later humanitarian

continents who have members among

Command experienced the highest level of

missions carried out by RAF nurses to bring

the fallen listed on the memorial walls. In

deaths in war, second only to those serving

back the wounded from the Continent.

front of the spire the gardens are laid out

The memorial walls are extensive. Bomber

on the submarines. In total, there are 57,861

with 27 trees representing the 27 airfields

names, and nearly all are aged between 19

THE HUMAN COST OF WAR

and 24. The names highlight the vast array

The whole focus of the IBCC is memorial and

has been carefully placed on its geographical

of nationalities serving in Bomber Command.

reconciliation, which is why the exhibition

position as if on a map. Thousands of bulbs

Volunteers came from over 30 countries,

includes memories from the Luftwaffe and

have been planted, and red poppies will

including Americans, Canadians, Australians,

ordinary people caught up in the bombing

be growing on the site next summer.

involved in Bomber Command. Each tree

NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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83

23/10/2017 22:29


Lincolnshire

City living 5 1

of the best attractions in Lincoln

LINCOLN CATHEDRAL It dates back to 1072, has been ravaged

by fire through the centuries and partially destroyed by an earthquake... Lincoln Cathedral has since its fair share of drama over the past 1,000 years and is now one of the city’s most popular attractions. Admission costs £8 (concessions are

guided floor tour is included in the price,

stalls sell mulled wine and Christmas gifts.

and upcoming events include an afternoon

See www.lincoln-christmasmarket.co.uk

and evening Ceremony of Carols on December 16. See lincolncathedral.com

2

LINCOLN CASTLE

4

DODDINGTON HALL & GARDENS

This privately owned, late Elizabethan mansion

Hailed as a place where kings and convicts

sits just outside Lincoln and groups are made

have walked, as a symbol of power and

hugely welcome, with exclusive guided tours

punishment through the ages and home

of offer, even when the house is officially

to an original 1215 Magna Carta, Lincoln

closed to the public. For more on the house,

Castle offers groups three main attractions.

its gardens and what’s on offer for groups,

Explore the castle’s towers and dungeons

see www.doddingtonhall.com

as you tackle the 360° wall walk, experience the imposing Victorian prison and chapel, and see the iconic charter that changed the course of history. Find out more and plan

LINCOLN CHRISTMAS MARKET This December sees the return of

THE MUSEUM OF LINCOLNSHIRE LIFE

Housing a collection of varied exhibits that reflect and celebrate the culture of Lincolnshire

your trip at www.lincolncastle.com

3

5

and its people from 1750 to the present day, The Museum of Lincolnshire Life is the county’s largest and most diverse

Lincoln’s hugely popular Lincoln Market, which weaves its way around the historic streets of

available) and joint tickets for the cathedral

the city’s upper town from

and Lincoln Castle cost £16. An introductory

December 7-10. Hundreds of

community museums. It’s free to

Find out more at www. visitlincoln .com

enter – find out more at www. lincolnshire.gov.uk/heritageand-tourism/museum-oflincolnshire-life

GTW

Lincoln Cathedral

VISIT ENGLAND/VISIT LINCOLN

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13-15 JULY 2018

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02/11/2017 10:47:03 02/11/2017 12:47


Lin, pictured here, spent 18 days touring India with her group

“It’s hard work,but I love it” A passion for travel led Lin Wilson of Solent Events & Leisure to launch her own business, and saw her crowned Group Travel Organiser of the Year... As told to: Angela Youngman

I

’VE ALWAYS HAD a passion for travelling,

55-65 age group. They want to do something

working in hotels and teaching water skiing in

different while they’re still physically able

voted Group Travel Organiser of the Year. Over the years there have certainly been

Ibiza. When my children were older, I started

to do it. I’m taking a group to Peru and the

some memorable outings. One such trip was

to go to places like London and Portsmouth

Amazon soon, and we recently climbed The

a theatre visit to London. We had an oldish

by coach – and decided I could do it better.

02 Arena.

couple on the coach who’d not travelled with

I set up my own events company for ladies

In addition, I set up a local membership

us before. After the show, they weren’t at the

of leisure. Initially, it focused on theatre and

club as I wanted to put something back into

pick-up point. The coach had to pick some

away-day coach trips, then I added flights

the community. There’s a maximum of 50

other people up from Victoria, so I got off

into Europe and elsewhere. Now, all my day

members at any one time and we try new

the coach to try to find them. They were

trips and theatre trips are mid-week to take

places for lunch or unusual experiences.

standing just 15 metres away and had

advantage of group discounts. It’s a very social affair; we get a lot of single people coming and

MEMORABLE MOMENTS

they always make friends.

I’ve been operating Solent Events for 26 years

I also have an adventure club targeting the

now, and back in 2013 I was chuffed to be

watched the coach go past. I put them in a taxi and we headed to Victoria, and just managed to get there in time. When I rejoined the coach, no-one apart

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Real life Lin’s taken groups all over the world

Lin’s now launched an adventure club for adrenaline lovers

From UK river cruises to the Amazon, Solent Events & Leisure will take you there

Kate Winslet eat your heart out...

Find out more about Lin’s trips at www. solentevents. co.uk

we can all meet. We check in together and

trips mean I can talk on the spot to the tour

then people can wait for me, or go through

guides about what they can and can’t do, and

security on their own, before meeting up in

sort out all the details. These are the trips I can

Southampton and people started to get off at

the lounge. I don’t herd people. They can do

sell the best as I know the places so well.

the various stops. When we got back to the

what they want within the tour guidelines.

last drop off point, I found this couple were

They don’t have to go on excursions if they

passion. You’ve got to be passionate about

still on the coach. They’d fallen asleep and

don’t want to; it’s their holiday, after all.

travel and a good organiser to make this type

from my colleague

was aware I’d ever left. We headed back to

I do this job because it’s my lifestyle and my

of company work. My customers

didn’t even wake up when I was on the microphone saying we were about to stop at Southampton. Luckily, the coach driver was heading back there, so he took them home.

You’ve got to be passionate about travel and a good organiser to make this type of company work

By far the most memorable trip

know that I’m going to organise everything and provide all the information they need. I give them a pocket itinerary and a ‘survival letter’ giving all the details regarding climate, language, electricity, what

was to India. We had 18 days there and did

IT’S ALL IN THE PLANNING

to expect and the timetable. There are very

so much – we went on a tiger safari, stayed

Fam trips are the most valuable aid when it

few questions raised because there is so

in a palace, explored Mumbai and had a

comes to deciding where to take groups. I take

much detail provided. Because it’s my

fantastic tour round India.

as many notes as possible, talk to guides and

company I offer personal service. It’s hard

see if I can visualise my group going there. Fam

work, but I love it.

At the airport I always book a lounge where

GTW

NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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23/10/2017 22:31


The voice of group travel

Winning ways MIKE BUGSGANG CEO OF AGTO

C

AGTO member the Coca-Cola London Eye was one of the winners at the GL&T Awards

Chief Executive Mike Bugsgang reports on the Association of Group Travel Organisers’ latest news

ONGRATULATIONS TO ALL the AGTO

Award for services to the community as part

For further information, email Nick Bevan

members who were winners at the Group

of his role in the Wyre Forest and Worcester

at Blueprint Travel Media on nick@blueprint

Prostate Cancer Support Group.

media.org.uk or call 01743 231135.

Leisure & Travel Awards: the Coca-Cola London Eye, Dunwood Travel, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines,

Commenting on the award, Keith said:

HF Holidays, Waddesdon Manor and Warner

“While not having had prostate cancer myself,

DIARY DATES

Leisure Hotels. Also to Harold Burke of Grand

I felt the ‘cause’ was so important I became a

AGTO’s new Scotland Branch will be holding

UK Holidays/Just for Groups for his

member of the support group eight years ago.

a meeting at the Mackay’s Hotel Strathpeffer

contribution to group travel.

“Our efforts through various fundraising

in Ross-shire on February 11, 2018.

The Group Leisure & Travel Show (GLTS),

actions have raised in excess of £350,000.

David Urquhart Travel will host the event

that took place at the NEC the day after the

This will help to finance a latest state of the

and a complimentary B&B overnight stay will

awards, proved highly successful for AGTO.

art robot machine, which will revolutionise the

be available to AGTO Scotland Members.

Pre-show marketing inviting GTOs to visit the

treatment of prostate cancer at the Alexandra

AGTO stand resulted in lots of new organisers

Hospital in Redditch.”

joining the Association. In addition, once again, the AGTO Ambassador scheme badges

NEW MEMBERS’ HANDBOOK

worked extremely well, with existing members

We have exciting plans for the next edition

directing potential members to the stand.

of the AGTO Members’ Handbook. Work is

RAPID GROWTH FOR KENT

which promises to be even bigger and better. The handbook will be packed with information

over 80% in membership during the past few

that will be a constant reference tool for our

months. Speaking at the recent Kent Branch

GTO members nationwide, enabling them to

AGM, that was held on the river cruiser Kentish

source information on our Associate Members’

Lady, Chairman Jim Silvester said: “We have

products and services.

London on Saturday January 27, 2018. Find out more at www.agto.co.uk

GTW

Harold Burke with Mike Bugsgang at the GLTS

Following research among members, the

organising a series of first class events around

new handbook will include:

the county in conjunction with AGTO

■ More

editorial content and images

Associate Members. This has proved highly

■ More

ways GTOs can engage with Associates

successful, with a record number of members

■ More

tips for GTOs on group organising

attending the AGM this year.”

■ More

about the activities of AGTO’s

QUEEN’S AWARD

Excursions Show at Alexandra Palace in

already underway on the next publication,

AGTO’s Kent Branch has seen an increase of

worked hard to attract new GTO members by

The AGTO AGM, sponsored by Made Tourism Marketing, will take place at the

Kent Branch AGM was held on board Kentish Lady

Branches around the UK It is encouraging that many Associate

AGTO group organiser member Keith Prince

Members have already committed their

has received the Queen’s Golden Jubilee

advertising support for the new handbook.

88 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD NOVEMBER 2017

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Do you have a vacancy? Recruit with us! A 100% targeted audience for the travel and tourism industry

Online Listing

Print Listing The magazine will feature a recruitment section which lists the most recent roles available in the industry. The magazine is sent via subscription and available in stores and attractions.

August 2017

Whether you have 1 or more vacancies traveljobsworld.com is the most effective place to advertise. The site is user friendly, with simple step by step guide making the process hassle free. Ideas & inspiration for groups & families

5

friends + you = the best group rates!

Yorkshire

the best views, walks, cities & more

+

WINDSOR’S HIDDEN GEMS

THE UK’S WILDEST DAYS OUT MUSEUMS & SPA HOTELS WHAT’S ON IN THE WEST END

12

TOP

winter escapes

001 GTW Aug 17 Cover HM.indd 1

25/07/2017 18:56

Social Media Listing

Once a job vacancy is live on our site it will be promoted across our social media accounts where we actively attract active job seekers.

01733 293 249 www.traveljobsworld.com Harley.Denham@grouptravelworld.com F.PTemplate.indd ad.indd8584 FP 89 Untitled-4

28/09/2017 12:04 12:56 02/11/2017 28/09/2017 13:24


Exciting times ahead

Expect a bold new look, and an even bigger and better visitor experience, at Excursions 2018

E

with First World War connections, such as Visit Kent. Dover Castle, with its commanding position, was the signal station from which the Navy controlled the movement

XCURSIONS IS SET to provide inspiration

becoming a hit with group bookers all over the

and itinerary ideas for days out and

UK, the shows include a welcome drink, three-

short breaks to more than 1,200 group travel organisers at Alexandra Palace in

course meal and a music legend tribute act. Created and produced by Groups Direct, in

of all ships in and out of the harbour. French exhibitor Lens Tourism will be offering guided tours for groups to discover the region’s First World War memorial

association with James R Hearn, performers

sites, including the War & Peace Museum

include West End stars and world-renowned

and the Ring of Remembrance in the hills

unique location-based stand layout will be

tribute acts, such as Elton John, Freddie

of Artois, which brings together 580,000

continued, with destinations, attractions, tour

Mercury, Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers.

names of those who lost their lives in

North London on January 27, 2018. Due to popular demand, the show’s

operators and accommodation providers from

northern France during the Great War.

each region all in one area – making it easy

HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2018

for visitors to plan their group itineraries.

Exhibitors at Excursions will be showcasing

NEW & IMPROVED ATTRACTIONS

their latest group offerings for 2018. Among

Other projects being unveiled at Excursions

Hambledon Vineyard Wine Bus, which

those celebrating a special anniversary is

include the new visitor centre, café and

is travelling up from Hampshire. Enjoy a

Holkham Hall in North Norfolk, which will be

galleries at Gilbert White’s House & The

refreshing sample of its famous English

holding a special exhibition, Treasures and

Oates Collection in Hampshire. And visitors

sparkling wine, and discover more about

Trophies: The Making of a Gentleman and a

can learn about the Queen’s Diamond

the team’s exciting group visits programme

Great House, to mark the 300th anniversary

Jubilee Galleries at London’s Westminster

for 2018.

since Thomas Coke began construction of the

Abbey, which will be displaying objects from

Hall in 1718 after his grand tour of Europe.

the abbey’s 1,000-year history, many of

Centre stage will be the custom-designed

Visitors to Excursions can also enjoy an exclusive preview of The Matinee Shows,

Next year will be the centenary of the

which are exclusive to Groups Direct, with

end of the First World War, with several

live performances throughout the day. Fast

exhibitors offering the chance to visit places

which have never been shown before. The Grade II* listed Georgian Town Hall in the centre of St Albans, Hertfordshire is

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Excursions 2018 Top attractions will unveil their plans for 2018 at Excursions, including Holkham Hall

Excursions takes place on Saturday January 27, 2018, from 10.30am to 4pm. See www. excursionsshow .com

Visitors can enjoy an exclusive preview of The Matinee Shows

The show provides inspiration and itinerary ideas for days out and short breaks

Excursions 2018 will be held at London’s Alexandra Palace

also being transformed into a £7.75 million

Marwell Zoo. This marks the second phase

museum and gallery. Opening mid-2018, it will

of a £17m investment programme for the

offer a changing programme of art exhibitions

zoo over the next eight to 10 years, creating

and events. While in Greenwich, the National

improved habitats for animals and more

Maritime Museum’s new Endeavour Galleries

immersive experiences for guests. In addition,

will be completed in 2018, creating four

visitors to Woburn Safari Park in Bedfordshire

new spaces in an area previously closed to

can meet red pandas, Mali and Mambo, in

visitors. A new designer shopping outlet is

the Himalayan Heights enclosure in 2018,

also opening at The O2, which hopes to rival

and enjoy refreshments in the new café,

Bicester, Cheshire Oaks and Wembley.

which has views across several enclosures.

Groups planning visits to animal and wildlife

GET ME THERE… To pre-register for show entry, and book seats on a free transfer coach, visit www.excursionsshow.com, or call the Excursions team on 023 8062 5516.

of free coach transfers for visitors, with

attractions will find details of the new Tropical

MAKE CONNECTIONS

House opening next Easter at Hampshire’s

Keeping up with the digital age, the

points to the north, south, east and west

event’s organisers, Tourism South East,

of Alexandra Palace. This includes a return

are introducing the new Visitor Connect

service operating from five central London

system at Excursions 2018, which enables

main line railway stations. Please note that

visitors to keep in contact with the exhibitors

although the coach travel is free, it’s essential

they’ve spoken to after the show from a

to pre-book your seat.

simple scan of their badge barcode. Not

The UK’s leading attractions will be at the show

15 coaches covering more than 70 pick-up

For visitors making their own way to

only can exhibitors follow up conversations

Excursions by train, there will be a free

by email, but visitors will also receive a

shuttle service running from Alexandra Palace

contact list of the exhibitors they’ve met.

main line and Wood Green Underground

GET THERE FOR FREE!

(Piccadilly Line) stations to the exhibition venue from 10am until 4pm. The W3

Getting to the show is easy, and Excursions

bus also picks up from both stations and

is once again running its successful programme

drops off at Alexandra Palace. NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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Relax

in style Let your imagination run riot as summer 2018 beckons and we reveal 30 top destinations...

North Cape to see the mesmerising Midnight

Words: Angela Youngman

around Greece, Croatia and Italy as well as the

Sun – a natural phenomenon that occurs in the summer months north of the Arctic Circle. Prefer something warmer? P&O is cruising Canary Islands and Portugal, while Fred. Olsen

SUMMER CRUISES

heading even further afield, you can enjoy the

The cool northern seas are proving attractive

mountains, remote beaches and prairies on

to cruise companies like Cruise & Maritime,

board the company’s ‘Canada in the Fall’ cruise,

CULINARY CRUISES

Fred. Olsen, P&O and Saga, who are offering a

with destinations including picturesque

European Waterways is offering culinary

range of cruises to explore the Norwegian Fjords,

Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Montreal and

themed charter cruises next summer on board

Greenland, Iceland and Scandinavia next summer.

the St Lawrence River.

its hotel barges L’Impressioniste and Enchanté,

Cruise & Maritime’s Marco Polo is set to

You can even travel close to the Arctic Circle

and Cruise & Maritime are heading to the Med.

with on-location cooking classes and

explore the Norwegian North Cape, the Russian

with Fred. Olsen. Departing from Liverpool, its

behind-the-scene tours all part of the package.

White Sea, Arctic Greenland and Iceland. And

cruises cover the fjords of Greenland and the

Highlights include exclusive visits to specialist

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Summer sun

ALAN KENNY PHOTOGRAPHY

Discover the Med next summer, from the Greek Islands to the Spanish coast

cheesemakers, including the Gaugry Fromagerie,

unique Lochs, Islands and Military Tattoo Bowls

and the chance to discover the art of mustard

Cruise. Hosted by the world’s number one

seed cultivation (yes, really!), as well as insights

ranked bowls player, Greg Harlow, guests can

into the production of Grand Cru wine.

play against local teams in three ports of call,

Prefer some action? CroisiEurope may have

towns. An overnight stay in Edinburgh provides

cruises combining cycling by day and cruising

an opportunity to enjoy the famous Military

by night. Available on the rivers Danube, Loire,

Tattoo en route.

Gironde, Rhone and Rhine, holiday makers can

Take in Italy’s sights on a cruise

as well as enjoying the scenery and historic

the answer. It’s launched CroisiBike – themed

enjoy escorted bike tours along beautiful cycle

ACTIVITY HOLIDAYS

paths. Alternatively, you can try CroisiEurope’s

HF Holidays is offering stunning 2018

Hiking Cruises, with guided walks by day and

walking breaks, based around Luz in the

cruising by night.

Algarve’s Wild West – a region that offers

Ocean cruising combined with bowls is offered on board Fred. Olsen’s Boudicca on its

a wild and rugged coastline, as well as a green, mountainous interior. NOVEMBER 2017 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD

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Summer sun Alternatively, take a look at HF Holidays’ visits to Lafkos in Pelion, where you can enjoy unspoilt Greece at its best. The ancient stone

Feel like being bowled away? Potters Abroad creates tailored holidays in Cyprus based around the best bowling facilities on the island. See www.potters abroad.com

Melk Abbey on the Danube

paths of the Pelion provide a fantastic network of walking between traditional villages, as well as the islands of the Pagasetic Gulf. If you prefer to take to the water, Moroccan surfing breaks at the Paradis Plage are on offer thanks to Health & Fitness Travel. Catering for beginners and enthusiasts alike, you can enjoy paddle boarding and surfing, as well as yoga and fitness classes. And that’s just for starters...

HERITAGE BREAKS Brightwater, specialists in escorted garden tours, is expanding its portfolio in 2018 to

TOURING HOLIDAYS

Garda, which includes guided excursions to

include archaeological and historical holidays.

Just Go! Holidays has launched its Grand Tour

Verona and Venice, plus a boat cruise to

Typical offerings include a ‘Spirit and stout’

of Spain, offering groups the chance to savour

Malcesine. Alternatively, try out more unusual

drinks tour of Ireland; Klapa singing in Croatia

the treasures, culture and traditions of the

train routes on its ‘Trains of the Danube Valley’

(the word klapa translates as ‘a group of

country – from the Moorish charms of

holiday, where guests can discover the glorious

friends’ in case you were wondering), and

Andalucia to the cities of Barcelona and

landscapes of Austria and the Danube Valley.

‘Calligraphy and garden art’ in Japan.

Madrid. Highlights include the Alhambra Palace

While HF Holidays offers a Baska Voda Discovery Tour, based on Croatia’s Dalmatian

For those wanting to go further afield, Journey Latin America has launched off-the-

in Grenada and visits to Valencia and Seville.

beaten-track journeys in Ecuador, the

South Quay Travel & Leisure is also on the

Coast. This includes the opportunity to visit

tour trail, with trips including ‘China from every

Galapagos Islands and Bolivia; while Silver Fern

the historic city of Split alongside Diocletian’s

angle’, and a tour of Sri Lanka. The latter

Holidays offers wine appreciation breaks

Palace – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – as

includes UNESCO World Heritage sites, a visit

in New Zealand.

well as the impressive Cetina Gorge, the walled

to a tea plantation and dawn and dusk safaris.

And if it’s luxury you’re after, MELIÃ Tortuga

The Deep South of the USA and California’s

Beach is in a class of its own on the glorious

on offer at Riviera Travel, as are the Ring of

island of Sal in Cape Verde.

Kerry and a Spanish coastal cruise around

An idyllic location and top-notch resort

Andalucia. For something different, take a look

facilities make it the perfect choice for groups.

at its ‘Bali and the dragons of Komodo’

The resort has both three- and four-bedroom

escorted tours, which include a visit to the

villas for groups available, each with a private

famous Monkey Forest, UNESCO rice terraces,

sun terrace, garden and pool.

Balinese folk dances and Hindu temples.

The resort itself has restaurants, white sandy beaches and stunning views of the

Music and dance Atlantic. are on the menu with Saga Holidays, taking in the Verona Opera Festival in the incredible Roman amphitheatre. Equally worth considering is a Gilbert & Sullivan-themed river cruise along the Rhine... See travel.saga .co.uk

Discover the Greek islands

Golden West are among the summer choices

GREAT TRAIN JOURNEYS Ever considered touring by train? Great Rail Journeys offer an all-inclusive tour to Lake Explore Verona

ALAN KENNY PHOTOGRAPHY

city of Trogir and the Krka National Park.

CLICK & BOOK... ■ www.brightwaterholidays.com ■ www.croisieurope.co.uk ■ www.cruiseandmaritime.com ■ www.fredolsencruises.com ■ www.gobarging.com ■ www.greatrail.com ■ www.healthandfitnesstravel.com ■ www.hfholidays.co.uk ■ www.journeylatinamerica.co.uk ■ www.justgoholidays.com ■ www.pocruises.com ■ www.rivieratravel.co.uk ■ www.silverfernholidays.com ■ www.southquaytravel.com ■ www.tortugabeachresort.com GTW

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Quality Garden and Special Interest Tours at Home and Abroad

tailor-made group travel

Tailor-Made Group Travel

Get in Touch

For 25 years Brightwater Holidays has provided tailor-made travel arrangements for many private groups and societies. Packages have ranged from short city breaks to grand 21-day tours of South Africa.

Call our Private Groups Manager Geraldine today for your brochure.

01334 657155

groups@brightwaterholidays.com | www.brightwaterholidays.com | Brightwater Holidays Ltd, Eden Park House, Cupar, Fife KY15 4HS 5020

Leis u r e • Bo wL s • Crui s e • Da n C e E xc lu s i v E A d u lt H o l i dAys – d E s i g n E d f o r g r o u P s w i t H g r E At s Av i n g s

Bowls Cruise 2018 - Lochs, Islands & The Military Tattoo

Departing 30th July 2018 from Dover on-board Fred. Olsen’s Boudicca.

Potters Abroad offers guests the very best holiday options on both land and sea. so whether you are looking for an unforgettable cruise with captivating sights and incredible experiences, or a holiday to the enchanting island of Cyprus, Potters abroad is the number one choice for you and your group members. Choose from a range of holidays to Cyprus from a bowls festival with entertainment flown over from the uK, dancing in the sun, festive holidays or simply a relaxing holiday.

Cyprus Festival Holiday Athena Beach Hotel

1st – 8th November 2017 Extend your stay for 10 or 14 nights.

For your free brochure call: 0333 3207 454 or visit: www.PottersAbroad.com

HP Template.indd 95

ABTA No.L8677

02/11/2017 11:50


Traveljobsworld.com Find your dream job at

Dread Mondays? Looking to drive your career in a new direction? Traveljobsworld.com lists all the latest jobs in the travel industry, across the UK and abroad. It’s completely free to search – here are just a selection of the opportunities on offer, with more online... OLYMPIC HOLIDAYS

Job type: Full-time

Resort Representative – Greece/Cyprus

Industry: Hospitality & leisure

Location: Thessalia Sterea Ellada,

Find more travel jobs online, including...

Greece Salary: Negotiable

Cruise Sales Consultant

Reservations Agent

Location: Wiltshire

Salary: £18,000

Salary: £35,000

Job type: Full-time

Job type: Full-time

Industry: Travel & tourism

Industry: Travel & tourism

Location: Surrey

Product Manager

Sales & Marketing Assistant

Location: London

Location: London

Salary: £26,000

Salary: £18,000-£25,000

Job type: Full-time

Industry: Travel

Job type: Full-time

Industry: Travel & tourism

Industry: Travel & tourism

Business Development Manager

Travel Sales Consultant (six-month contract)

Luxury Travel Consultant

Location: London

Location: Hampshire Salary: £20,000

Salary: £29,000-£35,000

Salary: £18,000-£25,000 Job type: Part-time

Job type: Full-time

Industry: Tour operator

Industry: Travel & tourism

Industry: Travel

POWDER BYRNE

Branch Manager

Flight Administrator

Swiss Cook

Location: London

Job type: Full-time, starting April/May 2018 Industry: Hospitality and leisure

HOLIDAYS PLEASE Travel Consultant: North America & Canada Specialist Location: Birmingham Salary: Negotiable Job type: Full-time

Travel Consultant Location: Tunbridge Wells, Kent Salary: £18,000 Job type: Full-time

Location: Flims, Graubünden,

Salary: £26,000

Switzerland

Job type: Full-time

Salary: Competitive

Industry: Travel & tourism

96 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD NOVEMBER 2017

Location: Derbyshire Salary: £18,000 Job type: Full-time Industry: Travel

Location: London Job type: Full-time Industry: Travel & tourism

Ski Travel Consultant Location: Surrey Salary: £18,000 Job type: Full-time Industry: Travel & tourism


GREAT YARMOUTH Great for short breaks and day visits

Where the sea meets the Broads, Norfolk’s premier seaside resort will keep your group entertained, with excellent group rates at seafront and countryside attractions. For fun itineraries for your group to enjoy visit

www.great-yarmouth.co.uk/group-travel or call 01493 846346

ENJOY From theme parks to the model village, bowling alley, racing, bingo, casinos, zoos and a Sea Life Centre, great group rates are available all over the borough.

HERITAGE Discover fascinating maritime history at the award-winning Time & Tide, English heritage’s Row Houses, the National Trust’s Elizabethan House, the oldest gaol in the country and the Nelson Museum.

NORTH NORFOLK Follow the coast road to North Norfolk for stunning views, stately homes, big skies and big beaches, a myriad of quiet country lanes, traditional market towns and countryside villages.

NORWICH Just 45 minutes drive, this medieval city has a Norman castle and two cathedrals, excellent shopping and great al fresco dining, perfect for day trips inland from the coast.

THE BROADS Just inland from Great Yarmouth, charter a paddle steamer, pleasure craft or doubledecker passenger boat and discover the Broads National Park.

SUFFOLK COAST For fantastic country houses, maritime museums, charming seaside towns and the southern Broads, travel down winding country lanes south into Suffolk.

SHOPPING The busy market place is surrounded with all the usual high street chains as well as lots of different independent shops unique to Great Yarmouth.

SEASIDE The Greater Yarmouth coastline has fifteen miles of clean, wide, soft, sandy beach, perfect for sea views and settling down in a deckchair to enjoy the Norfolk sunshine.

FOOD Sea air makes you hungry and food always tastes better on the coast. Locally caught and smoked kippers, cream teas, & fresh local seafood are always on the menu.

THE PERFECT TOURING BASE FOR NORFOLK & SUFFOLK Norfolk’s premier seaside resort is the ideal touring base for your coach holiday. Norwich, North Norfolk, the Broads and Suffolk are all within easy driving distance with lots to do in Great Yarmouth as well. Arrive at your quality graded accommodation in Great Yarmouth for afternoon teas, sea views, beach walks and fun evening entertainment.

www.great-yarmouth.co.uk/group-travel 01493 846346

Don’t miss MARITIME FESTIVAL 9 & 10 September OUT THERE FESTIVAL 16 & 17 September

FP Template.indd 97

02/11/2017 11:15


And finally...

Mine’s a pint! JOHN CONOD

I

An award-winning craft brewery, Purity Brewing Co is based at Upper Spernall Farm in Great Alne, Warwickshire, see www.purity brewing.com

As Front of House Manager at Purity Brewing Co, John Conod’s on a mission to educate groups about what makes a great beer delivers a great sense of pride in our business.

Visitors on our evening tours can also

Purity started with once a week evening

enjoy a field-to-fork experience, as well as

and I’m responsible for our brewery tours

tours in the early days, but demand has seen

grain to glass, as the farmhouse can prepare

and our Pure Quality cellar training, as

us open our doors at 10.30am and 2pm every

great British food, including beef from the

well as our online shop, Bottle Shack.

Saturday for individuals and smaller groups.

Longhorn cattle that are raised on the farm.

As a brewery that prides itself on a

We also hire out our meeting rooms to local

JOINED PURITY BREWING Company in 2014 as Front of House Manager

Last year we were very proud to receive

sense of community and transparency,

companies looking for a breath of fresh air and

the Best Brewery Experience at the 2016

Purity has run brewery tours from the

an inspiring environment in which to work.

Beer Awards. Judges’ comments included

very start. It’s a great way of engaging

Purity’s beers include UBU, Mad Goose,

the fact that our tours are: “Educational

Pure Gold, Saddle Black, Longhorn IPA, Lawless

and involving, with a great selection of

Lager and Bunny Hop, and guided tours

beers to try afterwards...” and “All in all

strength, and now has a national profile

include an introduction to Purity over a pint,

a very pleasant brewery experience”.

(Purity beers are sold nationwide and have

followed by a tour of the state-of-the-art

won multiple national and international

brewhouse and the wider grounds. Visitors

awards), the importance of maintaining an

get a unique insight into the sourcing of hops

GET ME THERE…

open house approach to our customers is

and malts, the art of brewing, and Purity’s

n Group

more important than ever. We’re still the

‘Pure Eco’ credentials, with a close look at its

be booked for Tuesday, Wednesday and

same company with the same Pure Quality

special Wetland System (weather permitting),

Thursday nights at £27.50 per person.

and Sustainability ethos – and sharing our

which allows us to filter and purify waste

Evening tours start at 7.30pm and finish

passion and knowledge for brewing great beers

water and return it to the water course.

at 10pm, and Saturday walk-up tours

with local groups, clubs and people. As Purity has gone from strength to

tours of between 10 and 20 can

are available at £16.50 per person.

Sharing our passion and knowledge for brewing great beers delivers a great sense of pride in our business

The brewery shop is stocked with Purity beers and speciality ales for you to take home at the end of your tour.

GTW

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introducing Scotland’S largeSt indoor Market. proud SponSorS of

ESTABLISHED FOR OVER 20 YEARS, THE FORGE MARKET IS pROuD TO SERVIcE OVER 1 MILLIOn SHOppERS EVERY YEAR. nOw OFFERInG IncEnTIVE pAcKAGES FOR nEw AnD ExpERIEncED TRADERS. to be part of thiS hiStoric Market, pleaSe get in touch 0141 554 1395. FP Template.indd 99

Groupe Geraud is the largest operator of local authority markets in Europe. www.geraud.co.uk 0151 363 5411

03/11/2017 10:25


duty free cruise to

GUERNSEY from just

ÂŁ18

*

pp

adult foot return

Add a day trip to Guernsey to your Dorset tour with big discounts for groups of 20 or more. Arrive in as little as 3 hours from Poole, with savings of up to 40% on UK High Street prices on big brands in our onboard Duty Free shop including wines, spirits, tobacco, perfumes and cosmetics, gadgets and confectionary. Shopping in Guernsey is tax free, with a mixture of high street brands and independent boutiques. And if you want to go further or stay longer, you can also enjoy group discounts on our Guernsey, Jersey and France routes.

Call 01202 207 242 or email group.travel@condorferries.co.uk

*Subject to availability for day trips from Poole to Guernsey. Price valid for groups of 20 or more. Terms and conditions apply, see condorferries.com.

FP Template.indd 100

02/11/2017 11:13


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