Johnsons Coaches Autumn, Christmas & Spring 2012/13 Brochure

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Autumn-Spring October 2012March 2013

Q U A L I T Y C OAC H T R AV E L

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Welcome

Archive Provincia di Imperia – Riviera dei Fiori

Diano Marina

Choose Johnsons… For Value and Peace of Mind FREE door to door service on almost all holidays –

Welcome to our new Autumn, Spring and Christmas holidays Experience majestic views – create treasured memories!

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ake the most of your Autumn, Winter and Spring – our carefully selected programme for 20122013 has over 30 NEW tours, 4 NEW cruises and many firm favourites. There are holidays in the UK, on the Continent and further afield, including a variety of themed breaks and a selection of cruises – there’s sure to be something for everybody! At Johnsons we pride ourselves in offering you a highly professional service, a high standard of accommodation, wonderful scenery and superb visitor attractions such as historic houses, railways, museums, special events and quality coach travel, making your experience as comfortable as it is memorable. We look forward to welcoming you on a Johnsons holiday.

‘’Travel with Johnsons – Travel with Friends!’’ To book or for more information Call 01564 797 000 (option 0) and speak to our friendly and informative sales team.

covering all Warwickshire and the West Midlands – See page 42. You’ll be well looked after by our friendly drivers and couriers. We operate a ‘No Surcharge Guarantee’ on all coach holidays. We are a family business – established over 100 years and with 30 years experience of organising holidays! All our holidays are protected by our BCH bond and our ATOL licence – so your money is safe.

We include lots of visitor attractions to enhance your holiday – and all admission charges are taken care of by us. To help you choose, all hotels and resorts are given a ‘mobility grade’. Coaches are environmentally friendly: 1 coach = 20 cars on the road!

For Your Comfort Almost all holidays in this brochure include a coach

with ‘Club Class’ extra legroom.

Porterage of your suitcase is included – from start to finish, unless stated. We use carefully selected high quality hotels.

For Your Enjoyment Sightseeing excursions are included with all holidays. You’ll see places that you might not otherwise have

the chance to see.

You can meet old friends and make new ones too. We often use specialist local area guides on our holidays. You’ll receive our friendly, helpful and cheerful service from beginning to end!

Front cover tours include: Thursford Spectacular, Cyprus, Nidd Hall, Keukenhof Bulbfields, Isle of Man and Leeds Castle.

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www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Welcome

Your Holiday Protection For your peace of mind we are members of the Bonded Coach Holiday Group of the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK Limited. This is a Government approved consumer protection scheme. This ensures that in relation to the coach package holidays described in this brochure or website that the clients’ monies are protected by a Bond in the unlikely event of the Members insolvency. Clients’ are recommended to inspect the current membership certificate at our registered office or alternatively go to www.bch-uk.org or telephone 0207 240 3131 to confirm current membership. All air holidays are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 6390.

Hotel Mobility Grading To help you choose your holiday, we provide a guideline grade for the hotel location accessibility in terms of steps, stairs, lift, hills, walking etc. The grades range from 1 to 5 and the higher the score the easier the hotel is for mobility.

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Join now for the following benefits: M O R E C £10 discount on every holiday and £2 off every day excursion, theatre trip or Express Excursion Late notice special offers A preview and chance to book holidays before our brochure release Members days out Discounts from local and regional retailers Our regular members newsletter

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We like you to be very comfortable in our coaches. So sit back, relax and enjoy the extra legroom.

Join our ‘SeeMore’ Club – See More and Save More!

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‘Club Class’ Coaches on almost all Departures

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CLUB CLASS

Membership is only £20 per person or £30 for joint membership per year. Membership runs from 1 September to 31 August. Look out for our mascot and very own correspondent ‘SeeMore the Seagull’! He’ll be joining us on some more of our holidays this year! To Join – just request a membership form and return it with your payment to start making great savings!

Holiday Travel Insurance Book Online and Save Nine! You’ll save £9 per person on your booking when you book your holiday online. Just visit www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk – click on ‘UK and overseas holidays’ and follow the instructions. You can also follow links to our holiday hotels and included attractions.

ARMCHAIR TOUR

Armchair Tours If you prefer a more relaxed and leisurely pace of holiday, we are delighted to once again offer an extended range of ‘Armchair Tours’. These holidays include a resort hotel in a great location and lunch on the outward and return journeys. They offer itineraries which are more relaxed and with less walking but which still include great sightseeing tours and you can still… ‘Experience majestic views and create treasured memories’.

Touch of Extra Luxury We are delighted once to again offer these special breaks, which offer excellent hotels. They are designed for those of you who, quite literally, would like to enjoy a ‘Touch of Extra Luxury’. These holidays include all of our popular features and also a welcome drinks reception and a delicious cream tea. To really put the icing on the cake, why not upgrade your room?

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Our popular insurance cover is again recommended and is tailored to suit the needs of our passengers. You will find the costs detailed in the ‘Additional Information’ section of each holiday. Please note that we do require all passengers to be insured. Our travel insurance is extensive and straightforward – there are no age restrictions and no automatic health screening – this applies to both UK and overseas coach holidays.

CHOOSE FROM 14 DIFFERENT THEMES Autumn Breaks

Page 6-7

Armchair

8

Touch of Extra Luxury

8

Turkey & Tinsel

9-11

Festive Breaks

12-13

Christmas

14-21

New Year

22

Easter

23

Winter Warmers

24-25

Themed Breaks

26-30

Weekend Specials

31

Springtime Breaks

32-35

Cruises

36-37

Air Holidays

38-41

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Your Guide to Holiday Destinations

Northern Lights Cruise (28)

Dutch Bulbfields (35) Madeira (39) Guernsey (38)

Jersey (15)

Boppard (14)

Cruises Fjords and Coastal Towns of Norway (36) Islands, Highlands & Ireland (36)

Meiringen (14)

Spain and Portugal (37) A Voyage to the Azores and Canary Islands (37) Jordan (39) Salou (24) Diana Marina (34)

Marrakech (40) Cyprus (41)

Blairgowie (34)

Loch Lomond (27)

Keswick (32)

Penrith (8)

Durham (13)

Lake District (20) Scarborough (20 • 33) Isle of Man (38) Warners Nidd Hall (16 • 22) Harrogate (31) Yorkshire Dales (19) Leeds (29) Liverpool (31) Bray (12 • 29)

York (13 • 17 • 31)

Cheshire (18)

Llandudno (9 • 28)

Woodhall Spa (26 • 27)

Warners Thoresby Hall (11) Wroxham (12 • 19) Cambridge (31) Duxford (30)

Llandrindod Wells (6)

Colchester (23)

Carmarthen (17) London (26)

Castle of Kent (7) Bideford (21 • 22 • 25)

Barnstaple (21 • 22 • 25 • 32)

Sidmouth (7 • 8 • 10 • 16 • 33)

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Warners Cricket St Thomas (23) Bournemouth (9 • 18 • 24)

Eastbourne (6 • 10 • 23)

Warners Bembridge Coast Hotel (11) Shanklin (15)

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Your 2012/2013 Holiday Planner Dates

Days

Tour Name

Page

SEPTEMBER 2012 8 7

Fri 12-Mon 15 Oct Mon 15-Fri 19 Oct Sun 21-Thu 25 Oct Sun 28 Oct-Thu 1 Nov Sun 28 Oct-Thu 1 Nov

4 5 5 5 5

Guernsey & Herm with Optional Sark Isle of Man

38 38

© Flickr - Martin Pettitt

Sun 23-Sun 30-Sep Fri 28 Sep-Thu 4 Oct

OCTOBER 2012 NEW Duxford Air Show Armchair – Where England Meets Scotland Autumn Gardens of Sussex NEW Autumn Colours of Llandrindod Wells TOEL – The Belmont Hotel, Sidmouth

30 8 6 6 8

Dates

Days

4 2 5 3 3 5

Mon 12-Tue 20 Nov Tue 13-Thu 15 Nov Wed 14-Sun 18 Nov Sun 18-Thu 22 Nov Fri 23-Mon 26 Nov

9 3 5 5 4

Fri 30 Nov-Sun 2 Dec Fri 30 Nov-Sun 1 Dec

3 3

Mon 3-Fri 7 Dec

5

Mon 10-Fri 14 Dec

5

Tue 11-Thu 13 Dec Fri 21-Sat 22 Dec

3 2

Mon 17-Fri 21 Dec Fri 21-Fri 28 Dec Fri 21-Sun 23 Dec Sat 22-Thu 27 Dec Sun 23-Thu 27 Dec Sun 23-Thu 27 Dec Sun 23-Thu 27 Dec

5 8 3 6 5 5 5

Sun 23-Thu 27 Dec Sun 23-Thu 27 Dec Sun 23-Thu 27 Dec Sun 23-Thu 27 Dec Sun 23-Fri 28 Dec Mon 24-Thu 27 Dec Mon 24-Fri 28 Dec Mon 24-Fri 28 Dec Mon 24-Fri 28 Dec Mon 24-Fri 28 Dec

5 5 5 5 6 4 5 5 5 5

Mon 24-Fri 28 Dec Sat 29-Dec 12-Wed 2 Jan 13 Sun 30-Dec 12-Wed 2 Jan 13 Sun 30 Dec 12-Wed 2 Jan 13

5 5 4 4

Castles of Kent Weekend Special – Liverpool & Chester Turkey & Tinsel Llandudno & Snowdonia NEW Battle of the Barges Thursford Christmas Spectacular Turkey & Tinsel Bournemouth Salisbury & The New Forrest Jordan, Petra and The Dead Sea Thursford Christmas Spectacular Sidmouth with Torbay NEW Ireland – Made for Christmas Armchair Turkey & Tinsel Sidmouth & South Devon York – St Nicholas Fayre NEW Durham Christmas Festival

7 31 9 26 12 9 39 12 7 12

Sun 10-Thu 14 Feb

5

Sun 10-Tue 12 Feb Sun 10-Sun 17 Feb Fri 15-Sun 17 Feb Fri 22-Mon 25 Feb Sun 24-Thu 28 Feb

3 8 3 4 5

Sun 24-Mon 25 Feb Thu 28 Feb-Thu 14 Mar

2 15

Sun 3-Mon 4 Mar

2

Sun 3-Thu 7 Mar Mon 4-Mon 11 Mar Thu 7-Sun 10 Mar Fri 8-Mon 11 Mar Sun 10-Thu 14 Mar Mon 11-Fri 15 Mar Fri 15-Tue 19 Mar Fri 15-Sun 17 Mar Tue 19-Sat 23 Mar Wed 20-Wed 27 Mar Fri 22-Sun 24 Mar Fri 22-Sun 24 Mar Mon 25-Fri 29 Mar Thu 28 Mar-Mon 1 Apr Fri 29 Mar-Mon 1 Apr Fri 29 Mar-Tue 2 Apr

5 8 4 4 5 5 5 3 5 8 3 3 5 5 4 5

Fri 12-Tue 16 Apr Thu 18-Wed 22 Apr

5 5

NEW Bideford Winter Warmer with Brend Hotels Dambusters Nostalgia & Lincolnshire NEW Mythology and Culture in Cyprus London Weekend Gems of North Wales NEW Barnstaple Winter Warmer with Brend Hotels NEW Weekend Special – Classic Cambridge NEW Land of the Northern Lights Cruise

25 27 41 26 28 25 31 28

MARCH 2013 10 13 13

DECEMBER 2012 Warner Turkey & Tinsel Bembridge Coast Hotel NEW Warner Dickensian Christmas Thoresby Hall Thursford Christmas Spectacular NEW Weekend Special – York Christmas Shopper Armchair Turkey & Tinsel Eastbourne NEW Christmas in Switzerland London Weekend Christmas in Boppard on The Rhine NEW Christmas in the Isle of Wight TOEL – An Island Christmas in Jersey Armchair Christmas in Sidmouth at the Kingswood & Devoran NEW Warner Christmas Nidd Hall York at Christmas NEW Christmas in Carmarthen NEW Christmas in Cheshire Christmas in Bournemouth NEW Christmas in the Yorkshire Dales Christmas in Norfolk NEW Christmas in Scarborough NEW Christmas in the Lake District NEW Christmas in Barnstaple with Brend Hotels Christmas in Bideford with Brend Hotels NEW Warner New Year at Nidd Hall New Year in Bideford with Brend Hotels NEW New Year in Barnstaple with Brend Hotels

Page

FEBRUARY 2013

NOVEMBER 2012 Thu 1-Sun 4 Nov Sat 3-Sun 4 Nov Mon 5-Fri 9 Nov Tue 6-Thu 8 Nov Fri 9-Sun 11 Nov Mon 12-Fri 16 Nov

Tour Name

11 11 12 31 10 14 26 14 15 15 16 16 17 17 18 18 19 19 20 20 21 21 22 22

Weekend Special – Harrogate, Ripon & The Peak District NEW Magical Marrakech Highlights of Madeira Barnstaple & North Devon Springtime in the Lake District TOEL – The Belmont Hotel, Sidmouth NEW Springtime in Scarborough NEW Shamrocks and Saints The Good Old Days Sidmouth and East Devon Coast Italian Riviera of Flowers in Springtime London Weekend Mystery Weekend Castles and Palaces of Perthshire Easter in Eastbourne NEW Warner Easter Cricket St. Thomas Easter in Suffolk & Constable Country

31 41 39 32 32 8 33 29 29 33 34 26 30 34 23 23 23

APRIL 2013 Dutch Bulbfields Dutch Bulbfields Cruise

35 35

JUNE 2013 Mon 10-Tue 18 Jun

9

Fjords & Coastal Towns of Norway Cruise

36

JULY 2013 Tue 16-Fri 26 Jul

11

NEW

Islands, Highlands & Ireland Cruise

36

AUGUST 2013 Sun 11-Fri 23 Aug Thu 3-Sat 19 Oct

13 17

Spain, Portugal and Gibraltar Cruise A voyage to the Azores & Canaries Cruise NEW

37

NEW

37

22

JANUARY 2013 Tue 8-Fri 11 Jan Sat 12-Sun 20 Jan Sun 20-Thu 24 Jan

4 9 5

Mon 21-Fri 25 Jan Sun 27-Thu 31 Jan

5 5

Bournemouth Winter Warmer Sun, Sea & Salou Winter Warmer NEW Bideford Winter Warmer with Brend Hotels NEW Loch Lomond Burns Break NEW Barnstaple Winter Warmer with Brend Hotels NEW NEW

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

24 24 25 27 25

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Autumn

© Flickr - Martin Pettitt

Sheffield Park Gardens

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

Autumn Gardens of Sussex The elegant seaside town of Eastbourne is sheltered by the rolling expanse of the South Downs and the towering cliffs of Beachy Head. Our tour takes in some of the most impressive gardens in Britain, around the time that the leaves will be changing to autumn hues. Tour Itinerary Sunday – We travel to the Sussex Coast, making a stop at the impressive Hampton Court Palace en route, with time for lunch. Arriving in Eastbourne, there is time to relax and settle in. Monday – We pay a visit to Nymans (NT). Set in the High Weald with splendid views, the garden is a series of experimental designs with spectacular planting and beauty all year. Both a horticulturalist’s dream and a peaceful country garden, it is easy to lose yourself in its intimate and surprising corners. Tuesday – Sheffield Park (NT) is a magnificent informal landscaped garden and was laid out in the 18th century by Capability Brown. Four lakes form the centrepiece and the plants and trees are spectacular. Wednesday – Today is free to relax and enjoy the leisurely atmosphere of Eastbourne. Thursday – One of the great Royal gardens of Windsor Great Park, the charming Savill Garden was created in the late 1930’s. This ornamental garden has 35 acres of contemporary and classically designed gardens and one of the world’s finest exotic woodland gardens. We continue home to the Midlands

Brecon Beacons

New Wilmington Hotel ### Eastbourne

This friendly, family run hotel is located very close to the sea, bandstand, Wish Tower, Winter Gardens and Devonshire Park. The pier and shopping centre are only a few minutes away. Bedrooms are en-suite with tea/coffee making facilities, TV, radio and telephone. Facilities include restaurant, lounge, bar and spacious dining room. Mobility Grade: 4 – The resort and hotel are on the level. Hotel has isolated steps and a lift serving most floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Admission to Hampton Court Palace, Nymans (NT), Sheffield Park (NT) and The Savill Garden • Our own courier service

CLUB CLASS

Autumn Colours of Llandrindod Wells Llandrindod Wells is Wales’ most central town, known locally as “Llandod” it was developed as a spa town in the 19th century and today boasts stunning scenery and architecture. Our central hotel is ideally located from which to discover the delights of Mid-Wales & the Brecon Beacons. Tour Itinerary Sunday – Our journey takes us to the market town of Ludlow before continuing into mid-Wales and our destination of Llandrindod Wells. Monday – A midmorning departure from our hotel takes us initially to the historic market town of Brecon. After time for lunch we take a short drive to Pant and join the Brecon Mountain Railway. Pulled by a vintage steam train, our journey takes us through beautiful scenery and along the full length of the Taf Fechan Reservoir. Tuesday – Take in the sea air this morning with a trip to Aberystwyth. We return to the hotel in the afternoon – perhaps take a dip in the pool or enjoy one of the many facilities the hotel has to offer. Wednesday – Today we visit Abbey-CwmHir Hall, a unique and beautiful stately home with outstanding gothic Architecture dressed for Christmas, stunning interiors and 12 acre gardens overlooking the ruins of the 12th century cistercian abbey. The remainder of your afternoon is free to explore Llandrindod Wells. Thursday – We return home today making a stop for lunch in the interesting town of Abergavenny before returning to the Midlands.

The Metropole Hotel #### Llandrindod Wells

Set in the historic spa town of Llandrindod Wells the Metropole is one of the region’s leading hotels offering a wealth of facilities. Bedrooms are en-suite with tea/coffee making facilities, TV, and hairdryer. Facilities include restaurant, lounge, bar and spa. Mobility Grade: 4 – The resort and hotel are on the level. Hotel has isolated steps and a lift serving most floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Admission to Abbey-Cwm-Hir hall and Brecon Mountain Railway • Visit to Brecon, Ludlow and Aberystwyth • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour 5 Day Tour Sun 21 – Thu 25 Oct 2012 £398 Single room £20 Holiday insurance £19.50 Reduction for National Trust members

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Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Returns 5.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

Sun 28 Oct – Thu 1 Nov 2012 £434 Single room £40 Holiday insurance £19.50

Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Return by 5.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Autumn Sidmouth

© Flickr – thetamar

Leeds Castle

NEW Itinerary

CLUB CLASS

Kent is steeped in history and heritage and is known as the ‘Garden of England’ due to its rolling hills, wooded valleys and far reaching open landscapes. The highlights of our interesting and varied tour are the magnificent castles of Kent. Marriott Tudor Park #### Nr Maidstone

Our well appointed hotel is surrounded by beautiful countryside and close to the River Medway. Bedrooms are en suite with air conditioning, TV, telephone, hair dryer, iron/ironing board, tea/coffee making facilities and safe. Facilities include restaurant, bar, lounge, indoor pool, gym, spa facilities and 18 hole golf course. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality fairly level. Hotel has few steps in corridors and has a lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 3 nights half board • Excursions to Tunbridge Wells and Canterbury • Admission to Leeds Castle and Hever Castle • Our own courier service

£348 £60 £15.50

Tour Itinerary Wednesday – We travel south, making a convenient stop for lunch en-route, arriving with time to settle in before dinner. Thursday – We visit the interesting House of Marbles where you can explore the Marble and Glass Museums and perhaps enjoy morning coffee. We also visit beautiful Buckfast Abbey, home to a community of Benedictine monks. There is time to explore and enjoy this inspirational place before we return to Sidmouth. Friday – We enjoy a guided tour which takes in the unique and diverse beauty of Torbay and its three towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. Torquay was once the watering place for the aristocracy of Europe and was the childhood home of Agatha Christie, Paignton became a middle class resort with its beaches, promenade and Victorian pier whilst Brixham remains one of Britain’s principal fishing ports. This evening we enjoy another superb dinner. Saturday – A free day to enjoy Sidmouth’s peaceful charm. With a nod to Christmas, in the evening a sherry reception is followed by a traditional festive six course dinner. Local singers will perform carols and festive songs to end our stay. Sunday – We visit beautiful Ottery Nursery before commencing our homeward journey with a stop en-route for lunch.

The Kingswood & Devoran Hotel ### Sidmouth

One of our clients’ favourites and for over 50 years under the direct and careful management of its owners, the Seward family. The hotel enjoys a superb seafront location on the Esplanade with excellent sea views. Bedrooms are en-suite with television, radio, telephone and tea/coffee making facilities. Facilities include two sea view lounges and attractive dining room. Mobility Grade: 5 – Resort: On the level. Hotel: On the level. Few steps. Lift to most floors. Steps to some bedrooms. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Excursions to the House of Marbles, Buckfast Abbey and Ottery Nursery • Guided tour of Torbay • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour

4 Day Tour Thu 1 – Sun 4 Nov 2012 Single room Holiday Insurance

Sidmouth with Torbay Sidmouth is a charming and elegant resort and remains our most popular destination – the timeless charm and unhurried way of life offers a perfect location for a winter break. Our itinerary has a ‘low key’ Festive element; the emphasis is on good food and relaxation.

Castles of Kent

Tour Itinerary Thursday – Travelling south, we make a stop at the town of Tunbridge Wells, the only spa town in South West England with 400 years of history. There is time for lunch here before we continue to the hotel, arriving mid afternoon. Friday – Today we visit Leeds Castle, set on two islands on the River Len and said to be the loveliest castle in the world and in a fairytale setting, it is all that a castle should be. You can visit the treasure-filled State Rooms and wonder at the glorious gardens and park land, and perhaps venture into the challenging maze. There is plenty of time to discover the fascinating history of this striking monument. Saturday – One of the best known cities in England, Canterbury’s old city is small and contained within the city walls. Presiding over all is of course the magnificent cathedral, St. Augustine’s Abbey and St. Martin’s Church. The day is free to explore this atmospheric city at leisure. Sunday – We visit Hever Castle, an enchanting double moated castle with 125 acres of garden to explore, and once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. We return home to the Midlands in the afternoon.

CLUB CLASS

Tour departs by 9.00am approx. Returns by 5.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Wed 14 – Sun 18 Nov 2012 £388 Single room £NIL At this hotel rooms vary and a number of supplements may apply. Holiday insurance £19.50

Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Returns by 4.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

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Autumn Armchair

Touch of Extra Luxury Hadrian’s Wall

Sidmouth

CLUB CLASS

CLUB CLASS

ARMCHAIR TOUR

Armchair Where England Meets Scotland This gentle but scenic itinerary takes in some of the highlights of the north of England, as well as crossing the border into Scotland. The highlights of the tour include a drive through some lovely Lake District scenery and a guided tour along Hadrian’s Wall, along with plenty of time to relax in our comfortable hotel. Tour Itinerary Monday – We travel north, making a stop en route for our included lunch. Tuesday – Take the morning to relax and settle in to our comfortable hotel before an afternoon drive through the beautiful scenery of the Lake District. We drive along the edge of Ullswater before continuing to Keswick, where we spend a little free time. Wednesday – A visit to this area would not be complete without calling at Gretna Green; visit the Old Blacksmith’s shop which brings to life the drama surrounding runaway marriages. After time for lunch, we continue through Dumfries and take a tour ‘round the loop’ between coast and hills with great views of the Solway Firth before returning to our hotel. Thursday – We follow the route of Hadrian’s Wall today. We are joined by a Blue Badge guide for an interesting guided tour on board our coach, where we learn something of the 2,000 years of history surrounding this monument. We return to our hotel with time to relax and enjoy our hotel’s facilities before our final dinner together. Friday – We return home today, travelling through the stunning Yorkshire Dales and making a stop for our included lunch at the Wensleydale Creamery.

North Lakes Hotel #### Penrith, Cumbria

This welcoming and comfortable hotel offers a warm welcome and excellent service and is situated on the edge of Penrith. Bedrooms are en suite with TV, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities, iron and hair dryer. Facilities include the Martindale Restaurant and Bar, indoor pool, gym and spa treatment rooms. Mobility Grade: 5 – Locality generally flat. Hotel has occasional steps with ramp alternatives and lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • 2 lunches • Scenic Lake District drive • Excursion to Gretna Green and the Borders • Guided tour along Hadrian’s Wall • Our own courier service

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£458 £80 £19.50

Sidmouth is a charming and elegant resort and remains our most popular destination – the timeless charm and unhurried way of life offers the perfect recipe for relaxation. There is a long, flat promenade which is overlooked by Regency buildings, along with wonderful views of the softly curving bay. Tour Itinerary Sunday – We travel south, making a suitable lunch stop en route and arriving at our hotel mid-afternoon. Relax, settle in and enjoy a drinks reception before our first delicious evening meal. Monday – A free day to explore and enjoy the many attractions that Sidmouth has to offer. Make the most of the Belmont’s luxurious surroundings and enjoy a sumptuous Devon cream tea! Tuesday – Our excursion today is to Knightshayes Court (NT), a fascinating country house with rich interiors which gives an atmospheric insight into grand country life. The impressive gardens feature a water lily pool, topiary and delightful seasonal colour. We follow the picturesque Exe valley back to Exeter and Sidmouth. Wednesday – We travel to the nearby city of Exeter, where we join a guided tour of the impressive cathedral. We continue with a visit to the historic quayside and then return to Sidmouth via the ancient port of Topsham and the resort of Exmouth. Thursday – We leave our hotel and begin our journey northwards, making an interesting stop in the beautiful city of Bath. There is time to explore a little and to have lunch here before we continue our journey home.

The Belmont Hotel #### Sidmouth

A luxurious former Victorian summer residence, the hotel retains much of its tranquility and charm. It stands at the end of Sidmouth’s striking esplanade and is just a short stroll from the town centre. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities, trouser press and hair dryer. Facilities include restaurant, a bar lounge, gardens and use of leisure facilities at the Victoria Hotel next door. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality – fairly level. Hotel – occasional steps, some bedrooms have steps inside the rooms. Lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Admission to Knightshayes Court (NT) • Guided tour of Cathedral • Devonshire cream tea • Visit to Bath • Our own courier service

5 Day Tours

5 Day Tour Mon 15 – Fri 19 Oct 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

Touch of Extra Luxury The Belmont Hotel, Sidmouth

Tour departs by 9.00am approx. Return by 6.00pm approx. Not included: 3 lunches

Sun 28 Oct – Thu 1 Nov 2012 £528 Sun 10 – Thu 14 Mar 2013 £508 Single supplement £NIL Sea view £40 Deluxe sea view £80 Reduction for National Trust members

Holiday insurance £19.50 Tours depart by 10.00am approx. Return by 5.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Turkey & Tinsel Bournemouth

© 2012 Bournemouth Tourism

Llandudno

CLUB CLASS

CLUB CLASS

Turkey & Tinsel Llandudno & Snowdonia Llandudno is the ‘queen’ of Welsh resorts and enjoys a unique location on level ground between the high headlands of the Great and Little Orme. We combine first class hospitality in one of our most popular hotels with highlights of the local area. Tour Itinerary Monday (‘Christmas Eve’) – We travel to North Wales, making a stop in Chester for lunch. Settle in before a drinks reception and then dinner, live music and dancing. Tuesday (‘Christmas Day’) – After breakfast with a gift from ‘Santa’, we head to Llanberis to visit ‘Electric Mountain’ where we enjoy a fascinating guided tour of Dinorwig Power Station. We descend deep inside ancient Elidir Mountain’s labyrinth of tunnels and witness the massive pump and turbines in action. We then return to the surface and take a ride on the picturesque Llanberis Lake Railway. Our ‘Gala Christmas Dinner’ with all the trimmings is followed by musical entertainment. Wednesday (‘Boxing Day’) – A leisurely day to relax and explore Llandudno. Perhaps visit the Victorian shopping area or stroll along the promenade. Join in with the afternoon’s entertainment or relax before dinner and music from a female vocalist. Thursday (‘New Years Eve’) – A leisurely drive following the route of the River Conwy before reaching Betws-y-Coed, where there is time to explore a little. We continue through the spectacular scenery of the Snowdonia National Park and then return to our hotel along the scenic coastal road. Celebrate the ‘New Year’ with a Gala dinner and entertainment. Friday – Sit back and enjoy the scenery as we travel over the Horseshoe Pass, making

a stop in Llangollen for lunch before returning home.

The Merrion Hotel ### Llandudno

The Merrion is one of Llandudno’s principal hotels and is situated in a prime position on the resort’s promenade, overlooking the Victorian Pier and the magnificent sweep of Llandudno Bay. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, tea/coffee making facilities and telephone. Facilities include restaurant, bar and lounge. Mobility Grade: 3 – Resort: Level seafront and shopping area. Hotel level, with ramp entrance and a few steps. Lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Excursions to the Snowdonia National Park and Electric Mountain • Return ride on the Llanberis Lake Railway • Visits to Chester and Llangollen • Entertainment programme • Our own courier service

Turkey & Tinsel Bournemouth, Salisbury & The New Forest Bournemouth is a popular all year round resort which enjoys something of a Continental atmosphere. Our itinerary combines the scenery of the New Forest, an interesting visit to Salisbury and the chance to relax at our hotel and explore our resort. Tour Itinerary Monday (‘Christmas Eve’) – After making a stop for lunch on the way, we arrive at our hotel in the early afternoon. Enjoy afternoon tea before a welcome cocktail party on the first evening. Dinner this evening is followed by musical entertainment. Tuesday (‘Christmas Day’) – After breakfast and a small Christmas gift for everyone from Santa, we drive into the delightful scenery of the New Forest, seeing the thatched cottages of Brockenhurst and Lyndhurst, perhaps catching a glimpse of the famous ponies. This evening, a sumptuous traditional Christmas dinner is followed by musical entertainment and sing-a-long carols. Wednesday (‘Boxing Day’) – Breakfast is followed by an excursion to the historic city of Salisbury. We take an enlightening guided tour of the gothic cathedral with its imposing 404ft high spire, followed by free time to enjoy the atmosphere of this ‘city in the countryside’. We return to our hotel and dinner this evening is followed by music for dancing. Thursday (‘New Year’s Eve’) – Today is free. Take a walk along the promenade, explore the elegant shops, or simply relax and enjoy the comfort of our hotel. Join in with the prize bingo and enjoy dinner, which is again followed by musical entertainment. Friday (‘New Year’s Day’) – We commence our homeward journey

making a suitable stop for lunch en-route. Note: Entertainment may change slightly.

Days Hotel ### Bournemouth

The hotel is located on the East Cliff overlooking the bay and beaches in a central, yet secluded position and has an award winning garden frontage. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, radio, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities and hair dryer. Facilities include restaurant and Edwardian style Meyrick Bar. Mobility Grade: 4 – Resort: Level cliff top walks, gradients to shopping centre and pier. Hotel: Level location. Lift to all floors. 9 steps to the main entrance can be avoided. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Daily afternoon tea and biscuits • Excursions to the New Forest and Salisbury • Guided tour of Salisbury Cathedral • Free time to explore Bournemouth • Entertainment on 4 evenings • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour 5 Day Tour Mon 5 – Fri 9 Nov 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

£414 £NIL £19.50

Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Return by 5.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Mon 12 – Fri 16 Nov 2012 £378 Single room £20 Sea view (on request, not available for single rooms) £30 Holiday insurance £19.50

Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Returns by 4.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

9


Armchair/Turkey & Tinsel

NEW Itinerary

CLUB CLASS

ARMCHAIR TOUR

Armchair Turkey & Tinsel Sidmouth & South Devon This tour is based in the ever popular South Devon resort of Sidmouth – a small, unhurried and unspoilt town of charm and elegance. This relaxing itinerary includes an excursion to Buckfast Abbey, a varied entertainment programme and free time to explore Sidmouth. Tour Itinerary Friday (‘Christmas Eve’) – A leisurely journey south, during which we make a convenient stop for our included lunch. We arrive at our hotel with plenty of time to relax and settle in before dinner, when a local choir will entertain you with carols. Saturday (‘Christmas Day’) – Relax today and enjoy Sidmouth’s peaceful charm. In the evening tuck into our ‘Christmas Dinner’ with all the trimmings, which is followed by music for dancing. Sunday (‘New Year’s Eve’) – Another scenic drive today as we make our way to the beautiful and inspirational Buckfast Abbey. There is time for a stroll here and the chance to explore the local area. We return to our hotel before this evening’s candlelit dinner and a light hearted seasonal quiz. Buckfast Abbey

Monday – We commence our homeward journey, stopping en route for our included lunch before returning to the Midlands. The Royal York & Faulkner Hotel ## Sidmouth

A popular, well appointed, family owned and run hotel in the centre of the Esplanade, overlooking the sea and adjacent to the town centre. Bedrooms are en suite with TV, radio, tea/coffee making facilities and telephone. Facilities include three comfortable lounges, two bars, a seafacing dining room and hydrotherapy pool (additional charge). Mobility Grade: 5 – Resort and Hotel: Level with a few steps to some public rooms and a lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes

© Adrian Platt

• Door to door service • 3 nights half board • 2 lunches • Excursion to Buckfast Abbey • Free time to explore Sidmouth • Entertainment programme • Our own courier service

4 Day Tour Fri 23 – Mon 26 Nov 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

10

Eastbourne

© Flickr - Charlie Dave

Sidmouth

CLUB CLASS

ARMCHAIR TOUR

Armchair Turkey & Tinsel Eastbourne Eastbourne is an elegant seaside town, sheltered by the rolling expanse of the South Downs and the towering cliffs of Beachy Head. This enjoyable break takes in some of the sights of the south coast, as well as allowing time for relaxation at our comfortable hotel. Tour Itinerary Monday (‘Christmas Eve’) – We travel south to Eastbourne, a glorious resort on the Sussex Coast, with a stop en route for our included lunch. There will be plenty of time to settle in to our hotel before a sherry reception with your hosts, followed by a candle-lit dinner. The day comes to a happy end with entertainment, singing and dancing. Tuesday (‘Christmas Day’) – A free day to explore the many attractions that Eastbourne has to offer. In the evening take your seats for a delicious ‘Christmas dinner’ with party hats, crackers and streamers, along with live entertainment. Wednesday (‘Boxing Day’) – We enjoy a gentle blue badge guided tour on board our coach today, taking in some of the highlights of the picturesque Kent countryside and learning something of the local traditions. We return to our hotel for an afternoon game of bingo and then enjoy another delicious dinner, followed by entertainment and dancing. Thursday (‘New Year’s Eve’) – Another free day to relax and enjoy our comfortable hotel with its friendly service. Tonight is our ‘New Year’ party and after a bucks fizz in the lounge, we take our seats for the New Year’s Eve banquet, including the ceremonial piping of the pudding. Friday – We take a gentle drive along the scenic south coast as we head for home,

taking in the dramatic scenery of Beachy Head. We continue our journey northwards, where we make a stop for our included lunch. Note: Entertainment may change slightly. New Wilmington Hotel ### Eastbourne

This friendly, family run hotel is located very close to the sea, bandstand, Wish Tower, Winter Gardens and Devonshire Park. The pier and shopping centre are only a few minutes away. Bedrooms are en-suite with tea/coffee making facilities, TV, radio and telephone. Facilities include lounge, bar, spacious dining room. Mobility Grade: 4 – The resort and hotel are on the level. Hotel has isolated steps and a lift serving most floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • 2 lunches • Blue Badge Guided Tour of Kent • Entertainment on four evenings • Small gift from Father Christmas • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour £338 £NIL £15.50

Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Returns by 4.00pm approx. Not included: 2 lunches

Mon 17 – Fri 21 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

£388 £20 £19.50

Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Return by 4.30pm approx. Not included: 3 lunches

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Warner Leisure Hotel Breaks On a Warner Leisure break you’ll understand what it means to be spoilt for choice. With a great variety of almost everything – great accommodation, great food, great things to do and of course, great festive themed entertainment each night.

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS NEW Itinerary

CLUB CLASS

Warner Turkey & Tinsel Bembridge Warner Bembridge Coast Hotel Coast Hotel #### Isle of Wight

Warner Dickensian Christmas Thoresby Hall

Bembridge Coast Hotel sits on the secluded eastern shore of the Isle of Wight just metres from the lapping, glistening Solent. With its 23 acres of grounds, its elegantly landscaped gardens and its marvellous sea views, Bembridge Coast is the ideal place from which to explore the island that occupying Romans called ‘Vectis’.

Elegant Thoresby Hall was built in the 19th century as home to the Manvers family. With its turrets, balustrades, gabled towers and finely wrought iron gates, it is an ornate example of Victoriana and a reminder of the exuberance of 19th Warner Thoresby Hall century architecture. Begin #### Nottinghamshire your Christmas celebrations with an enjoyable stay at this attractive and historic hotel; there has been a mansion house on the site since the This elegant 19th century house has 16th century.

Each night of your stay features one of the seasonal days, starting with ‘Christmas’ and ending with a fantastic ‘New Year’s Eve’ Party. You will be welcomed with a hot toddy and a mince pie that will set the scene for tasty festive menus, fabulous cabaret and even carol singing with Father Christmas! During your stay a whole host of activities will be available during the daytime, along with first class evening entertainment. Included excursion If you feel like a change of scenery, we have included a scenic tour of the Isle of Wight.

Enjoying an idyllic position near Bembridge and offering an excellent range of all the recreational facilities and entertainment. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, tea/coffee making facilities, hair dryer and radio. Facilities include lounge, bars, restaurant and extensive entertainment facilities. Mobility Grade: 4 – Grounds fairly flat. Hotel has a lift. There is some walking between the accommodation and main hotel facilities. Please note: single rooms are in standard chalets, not in the hotel. These are of a 3-star standard, tastefully decorated with en suite, TV and tea and coffee making facilities. Twin and double rooms are in the hotel complex and are 4-star.

Your Tour Includes

Included excursion If you’d like to join us on a day out, we include a visit to nearby Chatsworth House, which will be dressed beautifully for Christmas, with this year’s theme being Villains & Dames.

• Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Admission to Chatsworth House which is ‘Dressed for Christmas’ • Extensive facilities and daytime leisure activities • High quality and varied entertainment • Our own courier service

Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Scenic tour of the Isle of Wight • Extensive daytime leisure activities and facilities • High quality entertainment each evening • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour

5 Day Tour Mon 3 – Fri 7 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

many original Victorian features and is surrounded by ancient Sherwood Forest. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities, trouser press and hair dryer. Facilities include the Pierrepont Restaurant, bar, lounge, spa facilities, sauna and steam room. Mobility Grade: 5 – Locality – grounds all level. Hotel – lift to all areas.

What better way to bring the stories of yesteryear to life than to hear first hand tales of the past? The Thoresby Players is a term which dates back to medieval times, and the Players will be performing several ‘vignettes’ – entertaining and informative plays – around the house which bring to life Thoresby’s past. In addition, there is a wide range of daytime activities and first class evening entertainment for you to enjoy.

£394 £NIL £19.50

Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Returns by 4.30pm approx. Not included: All lunches

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Mon 10 – Fri 14 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

£448 £NIL £19.50

Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Returns by 4.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

11


Festive Thursford Spectacular

Bray

CLUB CLASS NEW TOUR

Thursford Christmas Spectacular Thursford is the ultimate Christmas musical experience and is the most popular Christmas show of all time in England. It is a blend of exciting Christmas entertainment, with Christmas songs, carols, stunning dancers, beautiful costumes, outstanding music and singing. Prepare to be dazzled! Tour Itinerary Day 1 – A leisurely drive, making a stop for lunch en route before continuing to the outskirts of Norwich, arriving at our hotel during the afternoon. There is time to settle in and relax a little before dinner. Day 2 – A free morning to explore Norwich, followed by lunch in the hotel before we travel to Thursford in the early afternoon. Every year from mid-November until Christmas, this little village in North Norfolk stages the largest Christmas spectacular in England. Over 100 professional musicians, singers and dancers present a musical celebration. This lavish production of colour, light, music and dancing creates a never-to-be-forgotten atmosphere that captures the magic and fun of Christmas. There will be a little free time to browse in the gift shop and to visit Fantasy Land before taking your seat for the evening performance. At the end of the show we return to our hotel. Day 3 – Leaving the hotel we spend a little time over the lunch period in Ely, with its ancient, narrow streets, timbered houses and cathedral that can be seen for miles around. From here we turn homeward.

Marriott Sprowston Manor #### Wroxham, Norfolk

This stately manor house exudes a historic charm combined with modern touches. The picturesque grounds are sheltered by ancient oak trees. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities and hair dryer. Facilities include restaurant, bar, café bar, indoor pool, spa bath, sauna and steam room. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality generally level. Hotel few steps to public areas and leisure facilities but ramps available. Lift to 2nd and 3rd floors, 8 steps leading to 1st floor. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 2 nights half board • Excursions to Norwich and Ely • Entrance ticket to evening performance of ‘The Christmas Spectacular’ • Admission to Fantasy Land • Our own courier service

CLUB CLASS

Ireland – Made for Christmas This enjoyable tour is a new festive break to Ireland’s East Coast, combining seasonal entertainment, expert Christmas themed demonstrations, gifts and great hospitality, with a warm Irish welcome. Tour Itinerary Sunday – We travel through North Wales to Holyhead for our afternoon sailing to Dublin, then on to our hotel in Bray. Monday – After breakfast we take a scenic drive through the beautiful wooded Wicklow Mountains, a protected National Park and home to many rare species, including red deer and the peregrine falcon. We return to our hotel in the afternoon for a Christmas decoration making demonstration with audience participation! Following dinner there will be further entertainment. Tuesday – A full day excursion to County Kildare, synonymous with Irish horseracing. Our first stop is the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens, where we take a guided tour through the paddocks and yard and free time to explore the museum. Wednesday – We spend a full day in the fair city of Dublin, starting with a visit to the Butlers Chocolate Experience, with its newly opened visitor centre. Experience how cocoa is transformed into chocolate treats from creamy fudges to chocolate novelties – perfect for your Christmas tree. Tonight we enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner, followed by a Christmas cocktail demonstration and tasting. Thursday – After receiving a souvenir Christmas gift it’s time to return home! We make our way back to Dublin for our

return sailing to Holyhead, enjoying breakfast on board. Then make the final leg of our journey back home.

The Esplanade Hotel ### Bray, Ireland

Situated on the Bray seafront with fantastic sea views and beautiful promenade. You can enjoy every modern facility in this beautiful historic Hotel. Bedrooms are en suite satellite TV, hairdryer, alarm and tea and coffee making facilities. Facilities include restaurant, cocktail bar and outstanding views. Mobility Grade: 4 – The hotel is on a level and has a lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Christmas decoration demonstration • Admission to Butlers Chocolate Experience • Guided tour of the Irish National Stud • Scenic drive through Wicklow Mountains • Free time in Dublin • Our own courier service

3 Day Tours Fri 9 – Sun 11 Nov 2012 Tue 13 – Thu 15 Nov 2012 Tue 11 – Thu 13 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

12

£318 £318 £318 £40 £14.50

Tours depart by 9.00am approx. Return by 5.00pm approx. Not included: 2 lunches and 1 dinner

5 Day Tour Sun 18 – Thu 22 Nov 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

£434 £63 £19.50

Tour departs by 8.00am approx. Returns by 5.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Festive

© www.visityork.org

St Nicholas Fayre

Durham Christmas Festival

CLUB CLASS

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

York – St Nicholas Fayre

Durham Christmas Festival

York is a special city at any time of the year but particularly so in the run up to Christmas. Carol singers and buskers add to the atmosphere as you browse the many market stalls, which offer a range of gifts, crafts and items from across the region. All in all, a heartwarming Festive experience!

Durham’s award winning annual Christmas Festival transforms the World Heritage Site of the cathedral and castle grounds into a festive feast of entertainment with a Craft and Gift Marquee on Palace Green, Local Food Producers Market, St Nicholas Children’s Lantern Procession and a visit from Santa.

Tour Itinerary Friday – Travelling north we are in York in time for lunch, leaving the afternoon free to explore this delightful city. Perhaps visit the Minster, the Jorvik Viking Centre or the National Railway Museum. Alternatively, relax in the riverside lounge at the hotel and watch the world go by. Saturday – A whole day to explore at leisure. In addition to the wonderful Minster and the excellent shops, there is the St Nicholas Market which has a Christmas magic of its own – perhaps try to visit after dark when it has a special magical appeal. For those looking for that gift that is a little different, try the individual and sometimes quirky stalls in the web of narrow streets that surround the Minster. There is a special medieval market with live crafting, mulled wine and costumed traders. You will also find little tearooms where you can rest awhile and inspect your purchases. Colourful street theatre and buskers add to the general Christmas goodwill. Sunday – We travel to the nearby spa town of Harrogate. There is time to explore and perhaps treat yourself to a delicious ‘fat rascal’ at the world famous Betty’s Tea Room. We return home to the Midlands in the early afternoon.

Tour Itinerary Friday – We travel north, calling at York en route with time to have lunch and explore a little. Perhaps visit the magnificent Minster, wander along the Shambles or step back in time at the Jorvik Viking Centre. We continue to our hotel, with time to settle in before dinner. Saturday – After a relaxed breakfast we depart for Durham where there is time to explore the wonders of the Christmas Festival. Some interesting highlights include the hugely successful Craft & Gift Marquee on Palace Green that features over 180 stalls selling a wide variety of gifts, perfect for Christmas presents and the local food market in the Cathedral Cloisters where a short services of favourite carols and readings also takes place. There is time to see the St Nicholas children’s lantern procession before we return to our hotel. Sunday – The fascinating Bowes Museum has an important collection of treasures including fine art, ceramics, textiles and dress. There is plenty of time to explore the wide variety of exhibits and to see the famous silver swan. We continue home to the Midlands with memories of a fabulous weekend.

The Queen’s Hotel ### Skeldergate, York

A well-appointed, friendly hotel, well liked by our clients and located on the banks of the River Ouse, in the heart of the city. Bedrooms are en-suite with television, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities and hair dryer. Facilities include Royal Brasserie and bar/lounge overlooking the river. Mobility Grade: 5 – City: Generally level, some cobbles. Hotel: Has lift or slope alternative to all steps. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 2 nights half board • Free time to explore York • St Nicholas Christmas Fayre • Excursion to Harrogate • Our own courier service

The Mercure George Washington Hotel Golf and Spa is an independently owned 3-star hotel, golf and leisure complex located on the outskirts of Newcastle upon Tyne. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities and hair dryer. Facilities include restaurant, bar, lounge area, indoor pool and gym. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality: Generally level. Hotel: Level entrance and lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 2 nights half board • Visits to York and Durham Christmas Festival • Admission to the Bowes Museum • Our own courier service

3 Day Tour

3 Day Tour Fri 30 Nov – Sun 2 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

Mercure George Washington Hotel ### Washington

£224 £40 £14.50

Tour departs by 9.00am approx. Returns by 5.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Fri 30 Nov – Sun 2 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

£219 £40 £14.50

Tour departs by 9.00am approx. Returns by 5.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

13


Christmas Boppard

Courtesy of Boppard Tourist Board

Meiringen

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

CLUB CLASS

Christmas in Boppard on The Rhine Christmas in Switzerland Switzerland is famous for its spectacular scenery and breathtaking views. Highlights of our tour include a visit to the Sherlock Holmes museum, torch lit forest walk and a sleigh ride in Grindewald. Tour Itinerary Friday – We travel to Dover to catch our ferry to Calais and then onto our overnight stay in Reims. Saturday – We continue our journey through impressive scenery and arrive at our hotel, after a welcome drink there is time to settle in before dinner. Sunday – An excursion to Jobin, the centre for traditional Swiss arts and crafts since 1835. We continue onto Interlaken for lunch before returning to our hotel for an afternoon at leisure. Monday (Christmas Eve) – Today is at leisure to enjoy our resort. Before dinner there is an option to take a torch lit forest walk followed by a warming glass of mulled wine and gingerbread. Tuesday (Christmas Day) – A relaxing day to make the most of the hotel’s facilities and location. Perhaps take a stroll in the local town. In the afternoon enjoy a Christmas lunch with entertainment. Wednesday (Boxing Day) – A morning visit to the Sherlock Holmes museum then onto Aplentower by cable car, the viewing plateau high above Meiringen. We return to our hotel in plenty of time for dinner with musical entertainment. Thursday – We head homewards and into France for our overnight stay. Friday – We continue with a leisurely journey to Calais to join our ferry, then home to the Midlands.

Park Hotel du Sauvage #### Meiringen, Switzerland

An impressive Art Nouveau hotel built in 1880 with all the updated modern comfort and pleasant atmosphere in a convenient central location. Bedrooms are en suite with TV, radio, telephone and mini-safe. Facilities include restaurant, bar, lounge, winter garden and terrace. Mobility Grade: 4 – Hotel has a few steps to entrance. Lift to all floors. Location – generally flat. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 7 nights half board • Return ferry via Dover/Calais (75 mins) • Lunch on Christmas Day • Sleigh ride in Grindewald • Torch lit forest walk • Christmas entertainment programme • Admission to Sherlock Holmes museum and Jobin • Alpentower cable car ride • Our own courier service

14

Tour Itinerary Saturday – To Dover to join our ferry to Calais, then through Belgium and into Germany to reach Boppard. Relax and enjoy a welcome drink before dinner. After dinner, enjoy a gentle walk with the hotel owner. Sunday – A lovely scenic excursion to picturesque Koblenz, where the Mosel meets the Rhine. There is time for lunch before we return to Boppard mid-afternoon. Monday (Christmas Eve) – Enjoy an optional gentle ramble through some lovely local scenery. We return to the hotel for some warming soup and the afternoon is free to relax and enjoy the hotel’s picturesque location. An aperitif precedes our 5 course evening meal. Tuesday (Christmas Day) – A relaxing day to make the most of the hotel’s facilities and location; perhaps take a dip in the indoor pool or join in with a gentle guided walk. In the afternoon, there is a visit from Father Christmas, who may have a little something for you! Enjoy music from a pianist, with the chance to sing some carols. Enjoy Christmas dinner ‘German style’ this evening. Wednesday (Boxing Day) – A boat cruise this morning to the Lorelei rock, with a light hearted quiz on board. Enjoy views of the 14th century castle Kurtrierische Burg, along with Bad Salzig and the pilgrimage town of Kamp-Bornhofen. We return to Boppard in the afternoon and dinner this evening is accompanied by live musical entertainment.

Thursday – Leaving Boppard, we journey back to Calais and join the ferry for Dover and home.

Bellevue Rhinehotel #### Boppard

Our delightful hotel is located in the centre of Boppard, overlooking the promenade and the river and is decorated in ‘belle epoque’ style. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone and hairdryer. Facilities include bar and restaurant with river views, indoor pool, sauna and steam room. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality – fairly flat. Lift to all floors, few steps to entrance. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 5 nights half board, including Christmas dinner • Musical entertainment • Return ferry via Dover/Calais (75 mins) • Excursion to Koblenz Christmas Market • Optional guided walks • Visit from Father Christmas • Boat cruise • Our own courier service

6 Day Tour

8 Day Tour Fri 21 – Fri 28 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

Spend Christmas at a first class hotel in one of the most picturesque parts of Germany. Our itinerary includes highlights of the area such as Koblenz and a Rhine boat cruise, where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

£984 £56 £41

Tour departs by 5.00am approx. Returns by 9.00pm approx. Not included: 7 lunches

Sat 22 – Thu 27 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

£774 £70 £36

Tour departs by 5.00am approx. Returns by 9.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Touch of Extra Luxury

Christmas

©Danny Evans-Jersey Tourism

Jersey

Godshill

Touch of Extra Luxury An Island Christmas in Jersey Jersey is a picturesque island with spectacular scenery at any time of year. This elegant and stylish hotel is the perfect place to spend a relaxing Christmas in first class surroundings, with excellent service and AA rosette award-winning cuisine. Tour Itinerary Sunday – We begin with a short journey to Birmingham Airport for our flight. On arrival in Jersey we are met and transferred to our hotel in St Aubin. After dinner, we take an evening excursion to view local houses decorated with beautiful Christmas illuminations. Monday (Christmas Eve) – A mid morning transfer to the island’s capital, St Helier. Perhaps browse the individual shops or visit one of the museums, such as the award winning Maritime Museum. We return to our hotel in the afternoon, with time to relax before dinner, which is followed by entertainment. Tuesday (Christmas Day) – The morning is free for you to enjoy the hotel’s facilities. After our delicious Christmas lunch with all the trimmings, relax and watch the Queen’s Speech. We round off the day with dinner and an evening of entertainment. Wednesday (Boxing Day) – A morning ‘mystery drive’ has been arranged for you to see some of the sights of this picturesque island. A free afternoon is followed by dinner and entertainment. Thursday – Enjoy a morning scenic coach excursion, taking in the west of the inland. We return to our hotel before transferring to the airport for our flight back to Birmingham, where our feeder is waiting to return us home.

Somerville Hotel #### St Aubin, Jersey

Nestling on the hillside, overlooking the yachting harbour and village of St. Aubin, the Somerville is one of the finest country house luxury hotels in Jersey and is well known for its warm welcome. Bedrooms are en suite with TV, telephone, bathrobes, safe, tea/coffee making facilities and hairdryer. Facilities include the AA rosette awarded Tides Restaurant, heated outdoor pool, terrace and immaculate gardens. Mobility Grade: 2 – Grounds and location on a hillside. Hotel generally level with occasional steps. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Return flights from Birmingham • Coach transfers • Christmas lunch • Christmas lights excursion • ‘Mystery’ excursion • Scenic coastal excursion • Airport Taxes • Our own courier service

© Flickr – Simon Haytack

CLUB CLASS

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

Christmas on the Isle of Wight Steeped in history with stunning unspoilt scenery and a wealth of attractions, from historic sites to natural delights. Our tour includes a delightful scenic drive and visit to Godshill. A lovely location in which to spend Christmas. Tour Itinerary Sunday – We travel south to Portsmouth, where we board our afternoon ferry to the island. We are met with tea and mince pies at our hotel, with time to settle in before a 3 course dinner and festive quiz. Monday (Christmas Eve) – After breakfast we enjoy a drive along the south coast of the island. We break our journey at Yarmouth where there is free time for lunch before returning to our hotel for a gala Christmas dinner and entertainment. For those who wish there is the option to attend midnight mass. Tuesday (Christmas Day) – Take your time over breakfast and enjoy the hotels facilities. In the afternoon watch the Queen’s Speech and tuck into a delicious Christmas Day lunch. A buffet dinner is followed by an evening of entertainment. Wednesday (Boxing Day) – We take a scenic excursion to the village of Godshill. We return to our hotel in the afternoon in time for our buffet lunch. The afternoon is at leisure, why not take a stroll in the fresh sea air before enjoying a 3 course dinner followed by entertainment. Thursday – Homeward bound today, but with time for a lunch stop along the way. Note: Entertainment may change slightly.

Bourne Hall Hotel ### Shanklin

This elegant country house hotel occupies an impressive position overlooking the coast just outside Shanklin Old Village originally built for one of Queen Victoria’s ladies in waiting. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Facilities include restaurant, bar, large lounge and pools. Mobility Grade: 2 – There is no lift and all the public areas are accessible without any steps except for the cinema. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Lunch on Christmas Day and Boxing Day • Return ferry, Portsmouth/Isle of Wight • Scenic coastal drive • Excursion to Godshill • Christmas entertainment programme • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour 5 Day Tour Sun 23 – Thu 27 Dec 2012 Single room Sea view Holiday insurance

£744 £NIL £76 £31.50

Tour departs by 12.20pm approx. Returns by 7.30pm approx. Not included: 4 lunches

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Sun 23 – Thu 27 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

£678 £NIL £19.50

Tour departs by 8.00am approx. Returns by 5.30pm approx. Not included: 3 lunches

15


Warners

Christmas Nidd Hall

NEW TOUR

Sidmouth

CLUB CLASS

CLUB CLASS

ARMCHAIR TOUR

Warner Christmas Nidd Hall Set in 45 acres of verdant parkland, this magnificent Grade II listed mansion was built in the 1820’s for Benjamin Rawson, a wealthy Bradford wool merchant, on the site of an Elizabethan manor house. The gift for pastiche, which characterised architecture of the late Georgian/Victorian periods, delivered to Nidd Hall a stunning potpourri of decorative styles; from the Tuscan columns and dome capitals of the west front, to the huge stained-glass panels which so exquisitely illuminate the interior. You will be welcomed with a festive drink reception in the Pavilion Bar and on each night of your stay there will be a fabulously entertaining cabaret performance. On Boxing Day there will be a spectacular fireworks display on the terrace – so wrap up warm! During your stay a whole host of activities will be available during the daytime. Included Excursion If you feel like a change of scenery we have included an optional excursion to the historic town of Harrogate. Note: Entertainment may change slightly. Harrogate

Warner Nidd Hall #### North Yorkshire

A Grade II-listed retreat set in 45 acres of beautiful grounds in the heart of the Yorkshire. Bedrooms are en suite with TV, tea/coffee making facilities and hairdryer. Facilities include restaurants, lounges, bars and entertainment venue. Mobility Grade: 4 – Grounds fairly accessible with some slopes and longer walks between areas of the hotel. Lift to most areas.

© Harrogate International Centre

Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Extensive daytime leisure activities and facilities • Quality entertainment each evening • Visit to Harrogate • Our own courier service

16

Sidmouth is an elegant resort and the perfect place to spend a relaxing Christmas. Our programme is designed for those who prefer a low key version of the festivities in the tranquil atmosphere of this ever popular hotel. Tour Itinerary Sunday – We journey south to reach the charming and elegant resort of Sidmouth, making a stop for our included lunch and arriving at our hotel in time for afternoon tea. There is time to settle in before a tasty dinner, which is followed by low key entertainment. Monday (Christmas Eve) – A scenic drive today along the coast, returning to Sidmouth for lunch at our hotel, followed by a free afternoon. Enjoy a tasty afternoon tea and later in the evening, dinner will be accompanied by carol singers. Tuesday (Christmas Day) – A morning to relax before a traditional Christmas lunch. Enjoy Christmas cake and mince pies as you watch the Queen’s Speech and perhaps take in the sea air. Dinner this evening is a light buffet. Wednesday (Boxing Day) – After breakfast, why not take a stroll along the sea front and watch the traditional charity swim, before returning to the hotel for morning coffee? After lunch, relax and enjoy the atmosphere of the hotel before our final dinner. Thursday – We make a stop en route for our included lunch before returning to the Midlands. Note: Entertainment may vary slightly.

The Kingswood & Devoran Hotel ### Sidmouth

One of our clients’ favourites and for over 50 years under the direct and careful management of its owners, the Seward family. The hotel enjoys a superb seafront location on the Esplanade with excellent sea views. Bedrooms are ensuite with television, radio, telephone and tea/coffee making facilities. Facilities include two sea view lounges and attractive dining room. Mobility Grade: 5 – Resort: On the level. Hotel: On the level. Few steps. Lift to most floors. Steps to some bedrooms. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights full board • Daily morning coffee and afternoon tea at the hotel • Gentle entertainment • Scenic coastal excursion • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour

5 Day Tour Sun 23 – Thu 27 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

Armchair Christmas in Sidmouth at The Kingswood & Devoran

£748 £NIL £19.50

Tour departs by 11.00am approx. Returns by 3.30pm approx. Not included: 3 lunches

Sun 23 – Thu 27 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

£648 £NIL £19.50

Tour departs by 11.00am approx. Returns by 3.30pm approx. This tour is full board

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Christmas

CLUB CLASS

York at Christmas York is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and provides a captivating backdrop to a celebration of Christmas. Enjoy the festivities at one of our most popular hotels, along with a visit to the pantomime and free time to explore this delightful and historic city. Tour Itinerary Sunday – We arrive at our hotel in time for a light lunch you will have time to settle in and perhaps explore a little. Join fellow guests for a welcome drinks reception, before dinner followed by a fun game of bingo. Monday (Christmas Eve) – After a traditional English breakfast we enjoy a gentle ride out to Ripon and Harrogate, before returning in time to relax before our three course dinner, followed by an evening of musical entertainment. For those who wish, there is the opportunity to attend Midnight Mass. Tuesday (Christmas Day) – Spend a relaxing morning before our four course Christmas lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy the views from the lounge or bar and watch the Queen’s Speech. Alternatively, a stroll along the riverbank might help make room for the buffet served in the evening. To round off this special day join in the Christmas Quiz. Wednesday (Boxing Day) – This morning is free to enjoy the hotel’s riverside location, or perhaps explore the historic centre of the city. Christmas would not be complete without a visit to the pantomime and we enjoy a matinee performance of ‘Sleeping Beauty’ at the local theatre. After dinner, enjoy an evening of magic. Thursday – Our journey home includes a

convenient stop for lunch before we head south. Note: Entertainment may change slightly. The Queen’s Hotel ### York

A friendly hotel, well appointed and anxious to please, located on the banks of the River Ouse in the heart of the city and well-liked by our clients. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Facilities include the Royal Brasserie, bar and lounge overlooking the river. Mobility Grade: 5 – City: Generally level. Hotel: Has lift or slope alternative to all steps. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Christmas Lunch • Light lunch on arrival day • Excursion to Ripon and Harrogate • Christmas entertainment programme • Pantomime visit • Our own courier service

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

Christmas in Carmarthen Carmarthen is a bustling market town where you will find a happy mixture of old and new and is the ideal location from which to explore the attractions of this lovely part of Wales. Tour Itinerary Sunday – We make our way to south Wales, making a stop in Cardiff Bay then on to our hotel, where we are met with a welcoming cream tea. There is time to settle in before our festive cocktail and canapés reception and three course dinner followed by some traditional harp music. Monday (Christmas Eve) – After breakfast, enjoy a ride out to Tenby described as an ‘English town on the Welsh coast’. We return to the hotel for a refreshing cup of tea then its eye’s down for a few games of Bingo. In the evening dinner is followed by songs and carols performed by the local church choir. Tuesday (Christmas Day) – Its Christmas Day! After breakfast we join Santa for coffee around the tree and to unwrap your presents. A traditional Christmas lunch is served in the early afternoon. Don’t forget the Queen’s Christmas Speech followed by tea and Christmas cake. In the evening there will be an informal buffet followed by a feature film show. Wednesday (Boxing Day) – Boxing day starts quietly with a leisurely breakfast after which there is an optional excursion to Swansea for a few hours of sales shopping. We return to the hotel for lunch and an afternoon at leisure. A further dinner by candlelight followed by music and entertainment.

Thursday – We depart our hotel today, returning home via Abergavenny before arriving in the Midlands.

Ivy Bush Royal Hotel ### Carmarthen

A welcoming independent hotel with a very friendly staff, located 10 minutes walk from the shopping centre. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone, hairdryer, iron and tea/coffee making facilities. Facilities include restaurant, large bar and spacious lounge. Mobility Grade: 3 – Immediate locality reasonably flat. Hotel: One step to entrance with ramp alternative. Small lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Lunch on Christmas Day and Boxing Day • Visits to Cardiff Bay and Tenby • Christmas entertainment programme • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour

5 Day Tour Sun 23 – Thu 27 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

Cardiff

© www.whycardiff.com

© www.visityork.org

York

£574 £85 £19.50

Tour departs by 8.00am approx. Returns by 7.30pm approx. Not included: 3 lunches

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Sun 23 – Thu 27 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

£554 £40 £19.50

Tour departs by 8.00am approx. Returns by 7.30pm approx. Not included: 3 lunches

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Christmas Bournemouth

© Bournemouth Tourism

Shrigley Hall Hotel

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

This tour is based in the lovely Cheshire countryside and our scenic itinerary takes in highlights of the stunning scenery of the Peak District National Park, some interesting visits and a delightful festive programme. music and dancing. Thursday – Today we return home making a convenient stop for lunch en route.

© WordPress.com

Shrigley Hall Hotel #### Pott Shrigley, Cheshire

This impressive 19th century former manor house sits in 262 acres of countryside on the edge of the Peak District National Park. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer and trouser press. Facilities include restaurant, Courtyard bar, lounge, leisure centre and indoor pool. Mobility Grade: 3 – Grounds: Relatively flat, with occasional hilly sections. Hotel: Few steps in public areas. There is a lift. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Lunch on Christmas Day • Visits to Trentham Shopping Centre, Bakewell and Buxton • Christmas entertainment programme • Pantomime visit • Our own courier service

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Tour Itinerary Sunday – We travel south with a suitable stop for lunch en route, arriving at our hotel mid-afternoon and enjoy a welcome mince pie. Relax in before a drinks reception, followed by a tasty dinner, music and dancing. Monday (Christmas Eve) – We begin our day with a visit to Poole Pottery, returning to our hotel in time for afternoon tea which is followed by a fun festive quiz. Dinner is accompanied by carols from the Salvation Army and followed by an evening of musical entertainment. Tuesday (Christmas Day) – After breakfast, join the hotel Manager for a putting competition with the chance to test your skills and win prizes! Traditional Christmas lunch is followed by an afternoon tea dance and Christmas cake. In the evening, tuck into a buffet and then try your luck at the Race Night! Wednesday (Boxing Day) – A free morning before a buffet lunch, boarding our coach once more for the short journey to the theatre for the afternoon performance of ‘Sleeping Beauty’. There is time to relax before a gourmet dinner, which is followed by live musical entertainment. Thursday – Today we travel through the scenery of the New Forest to Lyndhurst, continuing to Beaulieu, where we enjoy a guided tour of the Palace House. Listen to carols in front of the log fire and enjoy a glass of punch; there is also time to enjoy the Abbey, Gardens and the SOE Exhibition. We return to the hotel with chance to join

in with the ‘cash prize bingo’ and afternoon tea. Our final dinner is followed by music through the decades. Friday – After a farewell brunch, we leave the hotel to return home, making a lunch stop en route. The Queens Hotel ### Bournemouth

A first class hotel ideally situated in the heart of Bournemouth’s East Cliff, only a short walk from the busy town centre. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone, tea/coffee facilities, trouser press and hair dryer. Facilities include garden room, lounge, bar, indoor pool, spa bath, sauna and steam room. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality fairly level, some steps in the garden area. Hotel has ramp alternative to steps into the main entrance, steps to leisure facilities. Lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 5 nights half board • Lunch on Christmas Day and Boxing Day • Christmas entertainment programme • Afternoon tea • Excursions to the New Forest and Poole • Admission to Beaulieu • Pantomime visit • Our own courier service

6 Day Tour

5 Day Tour Sun 23 – Thu 27 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

Christmas in Bournemouth Bournemouth is a cosmopolitan resort and a perfect location in which to enjoy Christmas. We are pleased to include this 6 day Christmas break in our programme for a third year. The extensive fun-filled entertainment programme is sure to leave you with lasting memories.

Christmas in Cheshire

Tour Itinerary Sunday – After departing Henley we visit Trentham Shopping Village, bursting with gift ideas and several food outlets. We continue to our hotel and enjoy a festive cream tea on arrival. There is time to settle in before enjoying a delicious dinner with light entertainment from a vocalist. Monday (Christmas Eve) – Following a hearty breakfast we take a scenic drive into the Peak District National Park visiting Bakewell, before returning to the hotel where we will be met with traditional music and carol singing. A pianist will accompany us during an exquisite 3 course dinner before an optional trip to the local church for midnight mass. Mince Pies and a festive drink await our return. Tuesday (Christmas Day) – A day of food, food and more food with plenty of relaxation. A traditional Christmas lunch is served followed by entertainment provided by the hotel including a visit from Santa and a treasure hunt in the hotel grounds. Finish the day with a light 3 course buffet followed by live musical entertainment. Wednesday (Boxing Day) – After a relaxing breakfast we are back amongst the splendor of the Peak District National Park and a visit to Buxton. After lunch we head to the opera house to see Peter Pan. Back at the hotel we enjoy a 4 course gala dinner followed by an evening of

CLUB CLASS

£594 £80 £19.50

Tour departs by 11.00am approx. Returns by 3.30pm approx. Not included: 4 lunches

Sun 23 – Fri 28 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

£774 £NIL £21

Tour departs by 8.00am approx. Returns by 6.30pm approx. Not included: 4 lunches

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Christmas Norwich

© www.haworth-village.org.uk

Courtesy VisitNorwich.co.uk

Haworth

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

CLUB CLASS

Christmas in Norfolk Christmas in the Yorkshire Dales The Yorkshire Dales are home to sublime scenery, interesting attractions and friendly locals. The tranquil setting of our hotel is perfect for those who prefer a low key version of festivities. Enjoy crisp mornings when the Dales are wonderfully calm and provide a dramatic panorama. Tour Itinerary Monday (Christmas Eve) – We travel north and after a convenient stop for lunch, arrive at our hotel on the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Afternoon tea is served by the log fire and after settling into your room and surroundings we enjoy a delicious 3 course dinner with entertainment. Tuesday (Christmas Day) – A morning to relax before a grand 5 course Christmas lunch, in the afternoon watch the Queen’s Speech and enjoy Christmas cake and mince pies. Perhaps take a stroll through some of the 1400 acres of beautiful Yorkshire Dales countryside that the hotel is set in or take part in some entertaining games in the lounge. Wednesday (Boxing Day) – After breakfast we journey to see the local towns of Skipton and Haworth before continuing to the Bradford theatre to see the Cinderella Story, we return to the hotel in the late afternoon in time for another delicious meal with entertainment. Thursday – Our journey home takes us via Harrogate to York, where lunch can be taken, arriving home in the Midlands in the late afternoon.

Coniston Hotel #### Coniston Cold, Nr Skipton

This impressive hotel offers excellent service and is set amidst 1400 acres of spectacular Yorkshire Dales scenery, centered round a 24-acre lake. Bedrooms are en suite with TV, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities, Wi-fi, trouser press and hair dryer. Facilities include restaurant and bar. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality fairly level. Hotel level. No lift, but ground floor rooms are available on request. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • Our own courier service • 3 nights half board • Lunch on Christmas Day • Pantomime visit • Visit to Skipton and Haworth • Christmas entertainment programme

Tour Itinerary Monday (Christmas Eve) – We make our way to East Anglia and on to our hotel, where we are met with mulled wine and mince pies. Enjoy a festive buffet lunch with the afternoon free to settle in and enjoy the hotel’s facilities and surroundings, along with afternoon tea. Pre-dinner champagne is accompanied by carol singers. After dinner, there is the opportunity to attend Midnight Mass; hot chocolate and cookies will be waiting for you on your return. Tuesday (Christmas Day) – Enjoy a bucks fizz breakfast and a relaxing morning, before tucking into a traditional Christmas lunch. If you have space left, enjoy afternoon tea as you watch the Queen’s Speech. A buffet dinner is followed by an evening of entertainment. Wednesday (Boxing Day) – Perhaps enjoy the hotel’s leisure facilities this morning. A buffet lunch is followed by a visit to Norwich for the matinee performance of the pantomime ‘Aladdin’. The remainder of the afternoon is free to relax in our hotel before a Gala dinner, and then music for dancing. Thursday – We enjoy an interesting guided tour of historic Norwich today on board our coach. We return to the hotel and enjoy our final dinner together. Friday – It’s time for us to return home and we make a stop for lunch in Bury St Edmunds. Note: Entertainment may change slightly.

Marriott Sprowston Manor #### Wroxham, Norfolk

This stately manor house exudes a historic charm combined with modern touches. The picturesque grounds are sheltered by ancient oak trees. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities and hair dryer. Facilities include restaurant, bar, café bar, indoor pool, spa bath, sauna and steam room. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality generally level. Hotel few steps to public areas and leisure facilities but ramps available. Lift to 2nd and 3rd floors, 8 steps leading to 1st floor. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Christmas lunch • 2 further lunches • Guided coach tour of Norwich • Festive entertainment programme • Afternoon tea • Pantomime visit • Visit to Bury St Edmunds • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour

4 Day Tour Mon 24 – Thu 27 Dec 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

Following excellent feedback from our customers over the last couple of years, we are delighted to return to the first class Marriott Sprowston Manor Hotel. With friendly service, excellent facilities and delicious food, this is the perfect place to spend Christmas. We include a visit to the pantomime.

£614 £135 £15.50

Tour departs by 8.00am approx. Returns by 5.30pm approx. Not included: 3 lunches

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Mon 24 – Fri 28 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

£698 £60 £19.50

Tour departs by 8.00am approx. Returns by 6.30pm approx. Not included: 2 lunches

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Christmas Scarborough

NEW TOUR

Lake Windermere

CLUB CLASS

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

Christmas in Scarborough We are pleased to return to The Esplanade Hotel, overlooking two sweeping bays, with a busy fishing harbour and old town. Scarborough offers a charming combination of seafaring traditions, beautiful vistas and modern entertainment. Tour Itinerary Monday (Christmas Eve) – Making a stop for lunch on the way, we arrive in Scarborough during the afternoon with time to settle in to our hotel. In the evening enjoy a wine reception, dinner and musical entertainment. Tuesday (Christmas Day) – After a leisurely breakfast take part in an armchair competition ‘guess the weight of the cake’ followed by mid-morning coffee. In the afternoon enjoy a festive Christmas lunch and if there’s room Christmas tea and cake. In the evening there will be a carved Christmas buffet with entertainment. Wednesday (Boxing Day) – After a leisurely breakfast and morning coffee, take part in the dominoes, darts and carpet bowls competitions. Cream tea and scones will be served in the afternoon. In the evening enjoy a sumptuous dinner with entertainment. Thursday – We begin our day with a gentle drive to the market town of

Helmsley, where lunch can be taken in one of the many café’s and restaurants. We return to the hotel in the afternoon via Malton, famed for its hat and shoe shops. Friday – After a farewell breakfast we leave the hotel to return home making a lunch stop en route. The Esplanade Hotel ### Scarborough

This comfortable and friendly hotel, with first class service occupies a commanding position on Scarborough’s South Cliff with fantastic views over the bay. Bedrooms are en suite with TV, tea/coffee making facilities. Facilities include restaurant, bar, lounge and games room. Mobility Grade: 3 – a long level frontage and lift to all floors. Note: Entertainment may change slightly.

© www.hello-yorkshire.co.uk

Your Tour Includes

Helmsley

• Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Lunch on Christmas Day and Boxing Day • Festive entertainment programme • Competitions • Cream Tea • Visit to Helmsley & Malton • Our own courier service

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The scenery of the Lake District is truly breathtaking with high craggy mountains, picturesque little villages, a wealth of fauna and flora and beautiful lakes producing stunning reflections. Tour Itinerary Monday (Christmas Eve) – We drive north with a convenient stop for lunch arriving at our hotel in the early afternoon. We will be greeted with afternoon tea with time to settle in before a cocktail reception with entertainment from the Lakes Hand Bell Ringers, delicious dinner and an optional visit to the local church for the Christmas service to round off the evening. Tuesday (Christmas Day) – Possibly the best day of the year! After breakfast simply relax. In the afternoon a traditional Christmas lunch. The remainder of the afternoon is free with the Queen’s Speech being televised and wine tasting. In the evening after a splendid buffet round off the day with live musical entertainment. Wednesday (Boxing Day) – After a leisurely breakfast enjoy a leisurely tea dance. There will be pre-dinner drinks in the early evening with a gala dinner and Burnside Fun Casino. Thursday – After breakfast enjoy a morning at leisure. A light buffet lunch will be served in the hotel before a pantomime performance and lavish dinner. Friday – A full Cumberland breakfast will set you up for the journey home to the Midlands, we include a convenient stop en route for lunch.

The Burnside Hotel ### Bowness-on-Windermere

A peaceful and secluded hotel that invites you to relax, located in gardens with views over Lake Windermere and close to the steamer pier and village centre. Bedrooms are en-suite with television, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Facilities include restaurant, bar, lounge, heated indoor pool, spa, steam room and sauna. Mobility Grade: 4 – Grounds: The grounds have slopes Hotel: Ramp access to front entrance and all public rooms. Lift serves all floors. Note: Entertainment may change slightly. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Christmas lunch • 1 light lunch • Christmas entertainment programme • Pantomime performance • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour

5 Day Tour Mon 24 – Fri 28 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

Christmas in the Lake District

£628 £NIL £19.50

Tour departs by 8.00am approx. Returns by 5.30pm approx. Not included: 3 lunches

Mon 24 – Fri 28 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

£754 £NIL £19.50

Tour departs by 11.00am approx. Returns by 4.00pm approx. Not included: 3 lunches

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Christmas Bideford

© Flickr - jimkillock

© Blue Sky 4691_flickr

Lynton & Barnstaple Railway

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

CLUB CLASS

Christmas in Bideford with Brend Hotels

Christmas in Barnstaple with Brend Hotels Following excellent feedback on Brend Hotels over the past few years, we are delighted to offer our first Christmas tour to the Barnstaple Hotel. A high standard of food and service as well as a diverse festive entertainments programme awaits you. Tour Itinerary Monday (Christmas Eve) – We travel to the south west, making a suitable lunch stop en route. Enjoy refreshments on arrival and then relax and settle in before the evenings entertainments begin with a cocktail reception, dinner, jubilee choir and Victorian party games. Tuesday (Christmas Day) – Merry Christmas! Relax this morning before a fabulous Christmas carvery lunch and join in with some fun competitions. We round off the day with a Christmas cocktail party, festive themed buffet, a fun game of bingo and festive quiz. Wednesday (Boxing Day) – Another morning of leisure. In the early afternoon we head to the Queens Theatre for a pantomime performance of Robin Hood. Upon returning to our hotel, relax before dinner, then ‘A Night at the Races’. Thursday – Today we travel to the twin towns of Lynton and Lynmouth where there is time for lunch and to explore before we board a train on the narrow gauge Lynton & Barnstaple Railway for a short return ride through the lovely Devon scenery before enjoying a mince pie and hot drink at Woody Bay Station. We return to our hotel for a relaxed evening dinner. Friday – We return home today, making time for convenient lunch stop before we travel back to the Midlands.

The Barnstaple Hotel ### Barnstaple

Recently refurbished and expanded, the Barnstaple Hotel is the ideal place to relax and unwind. Use it as a base for exploring North Devon’s attractions and beauty spots. Bedrooms are en suite satellite TV and tea and coffee making facilities. Facilities include restaurant, spacious lounges, bar, coffee shop and an onsite health and leisure club with heated indoor and outdoor pool, gym and spa. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality flat. Hotel: All public rooms are on the one floor. Lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Christmas lunch • Visit to Lynton & Lynmouth • Pantomime visit • Free time to explore Barnstaple • Christmas entertainment programme • Our own courier service • Train ride

Following excellent feedback from our last Christmas tour at the Royal Hotel in 2011, we are pleased to return once again. This Brend hotel offers a warm welcome, a comprehensive entertainment programme and high standards of food and service. A lovely location in which to spend Christmas! Tour Itinerary Monday (Christmas Eve) – We travel to the south west, making a suitable lunch stop en route. Enjoy refreshments on arrival and then relax and settle in before a cocktail reception, which is followed by dinner and carols sung by Torridge Male Voice Choir. Tuesday (Christmas Day) – It’s Christmas Day! Enjoy a lazy morning or perhaps join in with some of the fun competitions arranged by the hotel. A Manager’s cocktail party is followed by a delicious 5-course Christmas lunch. If you have room, enjoy afternoon tea and relax before a Christmas themed buffet. Round off the day with party games and a light hearted quiz. Wednesday (Boxing Day) – Relax this morning, perhaps taking the opportunity to explore picturesque Bideford. In the early afternoon, we head to Barnstaple for a performance of ’Robin Hood’. Oh yes we do! We return to our hotel with time to relax before dinner, after which you can try your luck with ‘A Night at the Races’. Thursday – This morning we make our way to the Atlantic Shopping Village with time for lunch. In the afternoon, we make the short drive to RHS Garden at Rosemoor, where you can explore the Visitor Centre and enjoy the Winter Sculpture Exhibition. This evening, dinner at our hotel is followed by musical entertainment. Friday – This morning, we take a scenic coastal drive to Lynton and Lynmouth, with time for lunch before we travel back to the Midlands.

The Royal Hotel ### Bideford

Standing at the eastern end of the ancient Bideford Bridge, the Royal Hotel is steeped in history. As Bideford’s finest hotel, you can rely on the Royal for a warm Brend Hotels welcome among stylish and peaceful surroundings. Bedrooms are en-suite with tea/coffee making facilities, TV, telephone, hair dryer. Facilities include Regency Restaurant, lounge and bar area. Mobility Grade: 4 – Location and hotel fairly level, slight hill into town. Lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Christmas lunch • Visit to Atlantic Shopping Village • Pantomime visit • Scenic coastal excursion • Free time to explore Bideford • Christmas entertainment programme • Visit to RHS Garden Rosemoor • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour 5 Day Tour Mon 24 – Fri 28 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

£628 £NIL £19.50

Tour departs by 11.00am approx. Returns by 4.00pm approx. Not included: 4 lunches

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Mon 24 – Fri 28 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance Discount for RHS members

£634 £NIL £19.50

Tour departs by 11.00am approx. Returns by 4.00pm approx. Not included: 4 lunches

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New Year

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

Warner New Year Nidd Hall Set in 45 acres of verdant parkland, this magnificent Grade II listed mansion was built in the 1820’s for Benjamin Rawson, a wealthy Bradford wool merchant, on the site of an Elizabethan manor house. The gift for pastiche, which characterised architecture of the late Georgian/Victorian periods, delivered to Nidd Hall a stunning potpourri of decorative styles; from the Tuscan columns and dome capitals of the west front, to the huge stained-glass panels which so exquisitely illuminate the interior. You will be welcomed with a festive drink reception in the Pavilion Bar and on each night of your stay there will be a fabulously entertaining cabaret performance. On New Year’s Day there will be a spectacular fireworks display on the terrace – so wrap up warm! During your stay a whole host of activities will be available during the daytime. Included Excursion If you feel like a change of scenery we have included an optional excursion to the historic town of Harrogate. Note: Entertainment may change slightly.

Lynton

© Flickr – me'nthedogs

Nidd Hall

Lynton

CLUB CLASS

New Year in Barnstaple

New Year in Bideford A wonderful location in which to welcome in the New Year. Highlights of this break include a New Year Gala Dinner, a chance to see Bideford’s firework display and a visit to the pantomime. Be sure to join us! Tour Itinerary Sunday – We travel to the south west, pausing for lunch in Wells and arriving at our hotel in the afternoon. Enjoy refreshments on arrival and then relax before dinner and a light hearted quiz. Monday (New Year’s Eve) – This morning we travel to Lynton and Lynmouth, before we make our way to the theatre in Barnstaple to see Robin Hood. We return to our hotel before tucking in to champagne cocktails which precede our delicious Gala Dinner. There is music for dancing and at midnight enjoy the town’s sparkling firework display from our great vantage point at the hotel. Tuesday (New Year’s Day) – Take it easy this morning before we leave the hotel in the late morning for a scenic drive to the Atlantic Shopping Village. There’s time for lunch here before we return back to our hotel. Dinner at our hotel this evening is followed by musical entertainment. Wednesday – It’s time to return home and we make a convenient lunch stop en route before continue our journey back to the Midlands. The Royal Hotel ### Bideford

Warner Nidd Hall #### North Yorkshire

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

North Devon is a delightful mixture of dramatic coastline and magnificent moorland scenery, sprinkled with unspoilt resorts, bustling market towns and quaintly named villages. Barnstaple is a delightful destination in which to welcome the New Year. Tour Itinerary Sunday – We travel to the North Devon market town of Barnstaple with a convenient lunch stop en route. Let the celebrations begin with dinner, followed by musical entertainment. Monday (New Year’s Eve) – A free morning to explore Barnstaple, you may however wish to relax in our hotel or use the facilities of the health and leisure club of our sister hotel, The Barnstaple Hotel. In the afternoon we pay a visit to the pantomime to see Robin Hood at the Queens Theatre. After a cocktail reception and Gala Dinner, our evening continues with music and dancing! Tuesday (New Year’s Day) – We welcome in the New Year with a visit to the nearby towns of Lynton and Lynmouth, we return to the hotel in the afternoon via the seaside towns of Combe Martin, Ilfracombe and Woolacombe. Dinner will again be followed by music and entertainment. Wednesday – Its time to return home but not before a short visit to the riverside resort of Bideford and a convenient lunch stop later in the day. The Royal & Fortescue Hotel ### Barnstaple

A Grade II-listed retreat set in 45 acres of beautiful grounds in the heart of the Yorkshire. Bedrooms are en suite with TV, tea/coffee making facilities and hairdryer. Facilities include restaurants, lounges, bars and entertainment venue. Mobility Grade: 4 – Grounds fairly accessible with some slopes and longer walks between areas of the hotel. Lift to most areas.

Standing at the eastern end of the ancient Bideford Bridge, the Royal Hotel is steeped in history. You can rely on the Royal for a warm Brend Hotels welcome among stylish and peaceful surroundings. Bedrooms are ensuite with tea/coffee making facilities, TV, telephone, hair dryer. Facilities include Regency Restaurant, lounge and bar area. Mobility Grade: 4 – Location and hotel fairly level, slight hill into town, lift to all floors.

Your Tour Includes

Your Tour Includes

• Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Extensive daytime leisure activities and facilities • Quality entertainment each evening • Visit to Harrogate • Our own courier service

• Door to door service • 3 nights half board • New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner • Visit to the Atlantic Shopping Village • Evening entertainment • Pantomime visit • Free time to explore Bideford • Our own courier service

• Door to door service • 3 nights half board • Visit to the Pantomime • Free time in Barnstaple • Visit to Lynton and Lynmouth • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour

4 Day Tour

4 Day Tour

The historic atmosphere of this hotel has been preserved in the comfortable rooms, offering every modern convenience without sacrificing the hotel’s traditional charm. Bedrooms are en suite satellite TV and tea and coffee making facilities. Facilities include restaurant, spacious lounges, bar, coffee shop, bistro. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality flat. Hotel: All public rooms are on the one floor. Lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes

Sat 29 Dec 2012 – Wed 2 Jan 2013 Single room Holiday insurance Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Returns by 4.00pm approx. Not included: 3 lunches

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£648 £NIL £19.50

Sun 30 Dec 2012 – Wed 2 Jan 2013 Single room Holiday insurance Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Returns by 4.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

£448 £NIL £15.50

Sun 30 Dec 2012 – Wed 2 Jan 2013 Single room Holiday insurance Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Returns by 4.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

£458 £NIL £15.50

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Easter Dedham

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

Eastbourne

Easter in Eastbourne The elegant seaside town of Eastbourne is sheltered by the rolling expanse of the South Downs and the towering cliffs of Beachy Head. We take in some highlights including Tenterden, Brighton Pavilion and the spectacular scenery of the South Downs. Tour Itinerary Thursday – We travel to the Sussex Coast, making a convenient stop en route, with time for lunch. Arriving in the elegant seaside town of Eastbourne, we have time to relax and settle in. Friday (Good Friday) – An enjoyable excursion through the pretty villages nestling in the Downs, followed by a scenic coastal drive. We return to lovely Eastbourne, with the afternoon free to explore and enjoy the atmosphere. Saturday – Today, we travel to nearby Brighton for our guided tour and visit the impressive Pavilion. There is free time for lunch and further exploration of this attractive and timeless resort before we return to our hotel. Sunday (Easter Sunday) – Today we travel through the Sussex countryside, continuing into the Kentish Weald to Tenterden with its wide tree-lined main street. This picturesque ‘Cinque Port’ is known as ‘The Jewel of the Weald’ and its fine High Street ranks amongst the most attractive in the country. Monday (Easter Monday) – Our return journey includes a convenient lunch stop in Windsor. New Wilmington Hotel ### Eastbourne This friendly family run hotel is located very close to the sea, bandstand, Wish Tower, Winter Gardens and Devonshire Park. Bedrooms are en-suite with tea/coffee making facilities, TV, radio and telephone. Facilities include restaurant, lounge, bar and spacious dining room. Mobility Grade: 4 – The resort and hotel are on the level. Hotel has isolated steps and a lift serving most floors.

© Flickr - Karen Roe

© Flickr - davharuk

Cricket St Thomas

CLUB CLASS

CLUB CLASS

Easter in Suffolk & Warner Easter Constable Country Cricket St Thomas The picturesque county of Suffolk offers a We are pleased to return once again to the ever popular Cricket St Thomas. The house was designed by Sir John Soane and is set within glorious landscaped gardens based on a design by Capability Brown and is famous as a film location for ‘To The Manor Born’. There is a fully equipped leisure centre with swimming pool, sauna, steam room and gym. In the evening, enjoy top class cabaret and entertainment. There is a wide range of activities on offer during your stay, but if you feel like exploring a little, we have arranged two excursions: • Sidmouth, a small charming and elegant seaside town with beautiful views and interesting shops returning via Seaton and Lyme Regis • Forde Abbey and Gardens, an elegant former Cistercian monastery with 30 acres of award winning gardens, including a kitchen garden Cricket St Thomas #### Chard, Somerset This elegant Regency style mansion dates back to 1820 and is set within beautiful landscaped gardens with equally stunning views. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer and trouser press. Facilities include restaurant, lounge areas, the Pavilion entertainment room, swimming pool, sauna and steam room. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality – Fairly level. Hotel – ramp alternative to steps into the main entrance and restaurant. Lift to all floors including the Pavilion Room. Please note that there is some walking between the accommodation and the main hotel facilities.

variety of activities. Highlights of our Easter tour include a guided tour of ‘Constable Country’, a visit to Beth Chatto Gardens and a cruise on the River Cam. Tour Itinerary Friday (Good Friday) – We travel to East Anglia, pausing for lunch in the Lincolnshire town of Stamford and arriving at our hotel mid-afternoon. Saturday – Colchester is our destination today – Britain’s oldest recorded town. We continue on to Beth Chatto’s Gardens with 6 acres of beautiful water gardens. Sunday (Easter Sunday) – We discover idyllic villages on our guided tour of ‘Constable Country’, including unspoilt East Bergholt, the birthplace of the famous painter. We see the church at Dedham and the area around Flatford. We continue through Lavenham, one of Britain’s best preserved medieval villages. Monday (Easter Monday) – We travel to the coast today, visiting Aldeburgh and Southwold, known for its brightly coloured beach huts. Tuesday – It’s time to return home today via Cambridge, where we enjoy a relaxing river cruise on the River Cam, with free time to explore some of the sights of this atmospheric university city. Stoke by Nayland Hotel ### Nr Colchester A modern country hotel set in 300 acres of undulating ‘Constable Country’ within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Bedrooms are en suite with TV, telephone, iron, trouser press and hair dryer. Facilities include the Lakes Restaurant and Bar, spa with indoor pool, gym, treatment rooms and an 28 hole golf course. Mobility Grade: 5 – Locality level. Hotel is level with a lift to all floors.

Your Tour Includes

Your Tour Includes

• Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Easter egg • Excursions to the South Downs, Brighton and Tenterden • Entertainment on three evenings • Our own courier service

• Door to door service • Our own courier service • 3 nights half board • Excursion to Sidmouth • Admission to Forde Abbey & Gardens • Guided tour of Cricket St Thomas • Extensive daytime leisure activities and facilities • High quality entertainment

• Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Easter egg • Guided tour of Constable Country • Admission to Beth Chatto Gardens • Visits to Stamford, Colchester, Aldeburgh, Southwold and Cambridge • Cruise on the River Cam • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour

4 Day Tour

5 Day Tour

Your Tour Includes

Thu 28 Mar – Mon 1 Apr 2013 Single room Holiday insurance Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Return by 5.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

£398 £24 £19.50

Fri 29 Mar – Mon 1 Apr 2013 Single room Holiday insurance Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Returns by 3.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

£394 £NIL £15.50

Fri 29 Mar – Tue 2 Apr 2013 Single room Holiday insurance Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Returns by 5.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

£447 £90 £19.50

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Winter Warmers Bournemouth

4 Day Tour

The Hotel Miramar ### Bournemouth

© 2012 Bournemouth Tourism

Tue 8 – Fri 11 Jan 2013 £279 Single room £NIL Holiday insurance £15.50 Tour departs by 9.00am approx. Returns by 5.30pm approx. Not included: 3 lunches

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

Bournemouth

to Bournemouth in the afternoon with time to relax before dinner. Thursday – Today we take an excursion into the New Forest stopping at Burley, Lyndhurst and Bucklers Hard. We return to the hotel with time to relax before we enjoy a gala dinner evening. Friday – A morning to relax and enjoy a buffet lunch before we depart on our homeward journey to the Midlands.

The Miramar is a great favourite with our customers and is the perfect base for our itinerary. Bournemouth itself offers clean, sandy beaches, a fine pier, attractive promenade and over 3,000 acres of award-winning parks and gardens which bring tranquillity into the heart of the town. Tour Itinerary Tuesday – Our journey south takes us initially to the spa town of Bath where you may wish to visit one of the many attractions this Georgian town has to offer. We continue to Bournemouth in time for

Your tour includes • Door to door service • Our own courier service • 3 nights half board • Visit to Bath and Burley • Guided tour of Salisbury Cathedral • Admission to Bucklers Hard

you to settle into your surroundings before dinner. Wednesday – After breakfast we take a trip to the City of Salisbury where we include a guided tour of the 13th century Cathedral which boasts Britain’s tallest spire. We return

Montserrat

Superbly situated overlooking Bournemouth Bay and offering very high standards of food, décor and service. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, radio, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities and hairdryer. Facilities include terrace lounge, bar lounge, patio, executive lounge and restaurant. Mobility Grade: 3 – Resort: Level cliff top walks, gradients to shopping centre and pier. Hotel: Level location. Lift to all floors.

9 Day Tour

Estival Park Hotel Resort #### Salou

Sat 12 – Sun 20 Jan 2013 £738 Single room £135 Holiday insurance £42 Tour departs by 5.00am approx. Returns by 9.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

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CLUB CLASS

Sun, Sea & Salou With golden beaches, deep blue waters and a dramatically rugged coastline, the Spanish Costas offer an ideal holiday destination all year round. Highlights of this tour include; Barcelona, Cambrils and Montserrat. Tour Itinerary Saturday – We travel to Dover to take our ferry crossing to Calais, continuing south for our overnight stay near Dijon. Sunday – We continue our drive south,

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crossing the border into Spain and reaching our hotel for our six night stay. Monday – Today is free to relax, settle and familiarise yourself with your surroundings. Tuesday – We travel to Barcelona for our

guided tour of the vibrant capital of Catalonia and home to Antonio Gaudi’s quirky house and his unfinished masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia Cathedral. Wednesday – Today we travel to the nearby town of Cambrils which offers a selection of boat trips. Enjoy lunch in one of the many harbour side cafes, famous for the fresh seafood. Visit the Torre del Port watch tower and museum before we drive to Reus, the birthplace of Antonio Gaudi. We return to our hotel in time for dinner. Thursday – After breakfast we take a morning visit to the Benedictine monastery of Montserrat, perched on a stunning mountain range with amazing rock formations and where the Escalonia choir sings every day in the cathedral. The afternoon is at leisure. Friday – Today is free for that last minute shopping, sightseeing and relaxing in our hotel and resort. Saturday – We leave our resort behind as

This excellent 4 star hotel, situated on the beautiful coastal resort of La Pineda near Salou. Bedrooms are equipped with air conditioning, satellite television, safety deposit boxes and balconies. Facilities outdoor pools with sun terraces, landscaped gardens and state of the art spa facilities. Mobility Grade: 4 – The resort and hotel are on the level. Hotel has a lift to all floors. Your tour includes • Door to door service • 8 nights half board • Guided tour of Barcelona • Visits to Cambrils and Monserrat • Free time in Salou • Own courier service

we travel to Dijon for our overnight stay. Sunday – Today we continue north and reach Calais for our return ferry crossing and continue our way home to the midlands.

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Winter Warmers Bideford

© Blue Sky 4691_flickr

5 Day Tours

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

Sun 20 – Thu 24 Jan 2013 £329 Sun 10 – Thu 14 Feb 2013 £329 Single room £NIL Holiday insurance £19.50 Tours depart by 10.00am approx. Return by 4.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches before returning to our hotel. Thursday – We venture into the rugged moorland of Exmoor National Park and experience the charm of the coast as we reach Lynton perched high on the cliffs above is twin town, Lynmouth before we travel back to the Midlands

The Royal Hotel Bideford

Lynmouth

This Brend hotel offers a warm welcome and a high standard of food and service, a wonderful location for a winter warmer break. tea before returning to our hotel. Tuesday – Bideford is a small port town on the estuary of the River Torridge. Today is free to explore this charming town why not visit Bideford’s indoor Pannier Market, we return to our hotel in time for dinner. Wednesday – After a leisurely breakfast we make our way to Dartington Crystal where you can learn the fascinating story of over 40 years of Crystal during our factory experience. We include some time for lunch

Barnstaple Pannier Market

5 Day Tours

© Flickr - North Devon Council

Sun 27 – Thu 31 Jan 2013 £348 Sun 24 – Thu 28 Feb 2013 £348 Single room £NIL Holiday insurance £19.50 Tours depart by 10.00am approx. Return by 4.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

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CLUB CLASS

The Royal & Fortescue in Barnstaple Barnstaple is said to be the oldest borough in the kingdom and was founded at the lowest crossing point of the River Tor. This attractive town is a convenient centre for touring. Tour Itinerary Sunday – A leisurely journey to the West Country, making a convenient stop for lunch en route, arriving in Barnstaple during the afternoon.

Monday – Today is free to explore lovely Barnstaple. Discover for yourself the Longbridge over the River Taw’s Atlantic Estuary, St Mary’s Church with its crooked spire, and many other fascinating glimpses

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Standing at the eastern end of the ancient Bideford Bridge, the Royal Hotel is steeped in history. As Bideford’s finest hotel, you can rely on the Royal for a warm Brend Hotels welcome among stylish and peaceful surroundings. Bedrooms are en-suite with tea/coffee making facilities, TV, telephone, hair dryer. Facilities include Regency Restaurant, lounge and bar area. Complimentary leisure facilities are available at the nearby Barnstaple Hotel. Mobility Grade: 4 – Location and hotel fairly level, slight hill into town. Lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes

© Flickr - yrrek

Tour Itinerary Sunday – We travel to the South West, making a suitable lunch stop en route and arriving at our hotel in the afternoon. Monday – Today we travel to Barnstaple. Discover for yourself the Longbridge over the River Taw’s Atlantic Estuary, St Mary’s Church with its crooked spire, and many other fascinating glimpses into the history of this Saxon town. In the afternoon we visit the Royal and Fortescue Hotel for a cream

The Royal Hotel ### Bideford

into the history of this Saxon town. There is also a range of shopping experiences available. Tuesday – Today we visit Bideford’s indoor Pannier Market allowing time for lunch. In the afternoon we make our way to Dartington Crystal where you can learn the fascinating story of over 40 years of Crystal making during our factory experience. Wednesday – A gentle ride into the delightful Devon countryside. We venture into the rugged moorland of Exmoor national Park and experience the charm of the coast as we reach Lynton perched high on the cliffs above is twin town, Lynmouth, where we make a stop for a cream tea and return through Ilfracombe and Brauton. Thursday – After a leisurely breakfast we leave Barnstaple and return home, making a convenient lunch stop en route.

• Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Excursions to Barnstaple • Admission to Dartington Crystal • Our own courier service • Cream tea

The Royal & Fortescue Hotel ### Barnstaple

The historic atmosphere of this hotel has been preserved in the comfortable rooms, offering every modern convenience without sacrificing the hotel’s traditional charm. Bedrooms are en suite satellite TV and tea and coffee making facilities. Facilities include restaurant, spacious lounges, bar, coffee shop, bistro. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality flat. Hotel: All public rooms are on the one floor. Lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Excursions to Bideford Pannier Market, Lynton and Lynmouth • Admission to Dartington Crystal • Our own courier service • Cream tea

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Themed Breaks

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

Battle of the Barges Our tour is dedicated to the bomber aircraft from Lincolnshire that attacked the German barges and inflicted a lot of damage during a series of raids from RAF Waddington. A highlight of our tour is a presentation by a Battlefield Tour Guide on the Battle of the Barges. Tour Itinerary Tuesday – We take a scenic drive to Lincolnshire. After a stop for lunch we visit the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre with the opportunity to view a Lancaster bomber whilst it taxis around and to explore this fascinating museum. We continue to our atmospheric hotel, with time to settle in and relax before dinner, which is followed by a presentation on the Battle of the Barges by a Battlefield Tour Guide. Wednesday – A visit today to RAF Scampton, the winter home of the Red Arrows. We included a guided tour to make the most of our visit. Then to Hemswell Antiques where there is time for lunch before we continue to RAF Waddington. Explore the heritage centre, view some recently recovered wreckage and hear the story of the aircraft and its crew. Thursday – RAF Digby is our destination this morning; we visit the fully restored Fighter Command Operations Room in its original 1937 bunker, which is home to a unique archive of documents, photographs and equipment. We continue to the Newark Aviation Museum, which has 70 significant aircraft and cockpits on display before returning home to the Midlands.

© Ivor the driver

RAF Digby

Petwood Hotel ### Woodhall Spa

A hotel of character retaining many original features, including extensive oak panelling and a beautifully carved main staircase. Set in 30 acres of grounds and surrounded by mature woodland, lawns and gardens the hotel was home to the officers mess of 617 Squadron, the famous ‘Dambusters’. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone and tea/coffee facilities. Facilities include bar, lounge, restaurant and snooker room. Mobility Grade: 5 – Locality: On a level location. Hotel: Level. The hotel has a lift. Steps to main entrance which can be avoided. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 2 nights half board • Visits to RAF Waddington and RAF Digby Operations Room Museum • Guided tour of RAF Scampton • Admission to Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre and the Newark Aviation Museum • Battlefield Tour Guide talk • Our own courier service

3 Day Tour Tue 6 – Thu 8 Nov 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

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£274 £NIL £14.50

Tour departs by 9.00am approx. Returns by 5.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

Houses of Parliament

© Flickr - Hermà ©s

Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre

NEW HOTEL

CLUB CLASS

London Weekend The exciting and vibrant capital city has something for everyone, whether museums, shopping or sightseeing. Our centrally located, 4 star hotel is situated close to the Royal Albert Hall and Kensington Palace. An excellent value short break and not to be missed! Tour Itinerary Friday – We arrive in London around lunchtime, making our way to Covent Garden where there is time for lunch before our optional sightseeing excursion, which takes in some of the major sights in this timeless and iconic city. Saturday – Today is free to explore at leisure. Nearby sights include Kensington Palace and The Royal Albert Hall. Why not make the most of London’s museums with a visit to the British Museum, the Imperial War Museum or the Science Museum. This evening, choose a restaurant for dinner and perhaps take in a top West End show. Sunday – After a hearty breakfast and with your energy renewed, you are free to once more explore your favourite attractions. If shopping is on your list of favourite pastimes, you will be spoilt for choice. Favourite areas include Covent Garden, Oxford Street, Westfield Shopping Centre, along with Portobello and Camden markets for a more local flavour. Alternatively, perhaps visit Greenwich, or stroll and take in some of the famous sights such as Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Chinatown. We return home in the evening with memories of a fabulous weekend.

The Regency Hotel #### London

This 4 star hotel reflects the refined splendor of the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea. Traditional regency style architecture compliments the relaxed town house atmosphere. Bedrooms are en suite with flat screen TV, tea/coffee making facilities, and hair dryer. Facilities include the Pavilion Restaurant, Pavilion Terrace and cocktail bar, room service and gym. Mobility Grade: 5 – Locality – generally level. There is level access to all areas of the hotel and a lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • 2 nights bed and breakfast • Centrally located 4 star hotel • Sightseeing excursion • Free time to explore London attractions

3 Day Tours Fri 21 – Sun 23 Dec 2012 Fri 15 – Sun 17 Feb 2013 Fri 22 – Sun 24 Mar 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

£198 £198 £198 £79 £14.50

Tours depart by 8.00am approx. Return by 7.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches and dinners, porterage, admission charges to any attractions. Door to door service £30 per person

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Themed Breaks Stirling Castle

Lincolnshire Aviation Museum

CLUB CLASS NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

Loch Lomond Burns Break Picture yourself soaking up the atmosphere of an 18th century Inn near Loch Lomond, sitting beside the roaring log fire whilst planning your day’s exploration of the beautiful surroundings. Our themed break is centred around the Scottish history of Jacobean and local clans and the traditions of a Burns Supper. Tour Itinerary Monday – We begin our journey north to Scotland, making a stop en route for lunch and arriving at our comfortable hotel in Loch Lomond in the afternoon. After settling into your room enjoy a welcome drink and dinner followed by a storytelling presentation about the local clans, including a weaponry display and highland dress. Tuesday – After breakfast we take a scenic drive of the Trossachs one of the most scenic areas of Scotland, where we include a stop for a light lunch. We return to our hotel in the afternoon with time to relax before our Burns Supper followed by a traditional Scottish night of music and dance. Wednesday – Today we take a trip to the wonderful Stirling Castle, abundant with splendor, colour and glorious craftsmanship; enter the world of Scotland’s Renaissance Kings & Queens. Before returning to the hotel we make a stop in Stirling allowing time for lunch. In the evening we will host a quiz with Scottish theme. Thursday – Today is free to explore your glorious surroundings. The village of Drymen is a popular spot with interesting

shops, pubs and restaurants. Friday – We return home today with a convenient stop en route. The Winnock Hotel ### Loch Lomond

Situated on the pretty village green in the conservation village of Drymen, with the oldest part of the building dating back to the late 1700’s formerly a coaching inn, The Winnock has been lovingly restored and tastefully extended to its present day form, offering guests a cosy and comfortable space to relax in. Bedrooms are ensuite with tea/coffee making facilities, satellite TV, radio and telephone. Facilities include restaurant, conservatory, lounge and bar. Mobility Grade: 2 – The resort and hotel are on the level. Hotel has no Lift.

Dambusters Nostalgia and Lincolnshire This themed break is dedicated to the remarkable wartime achievements of 617 ‘Dambusters’ Squadron, in the year of the 70th Anniversary of the elite group of men who carried out the raid on the Mohne, Eder and Sorpe Dams in May 1943. A highlight of our tour is a presentation by a leading ‘Dambusters’ historian. Tour Itinerary Sunday – We leave the Midlands and drive to Lincolnshire. After a stop for lunch we visit RAF Waddington. Explore the heritage centre, view some recently recovered wreckage and enjoy a talk on the Lancaster and the Manchester, its ill-fated predecessor. We continue to our hotel, with time to settle in and relax before dinner, which is followed by a presentation by a leading ‘Dambusters’ historian. Monday – A visit this morning to RAF Scampton, the winter home of the Red Arrows. We include a guided tour to make the most of our visit. In the afternoon we head to Hemswell Antiques where there is time for lunch, then onto to the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visitors Centre in the afternoon, where we have a guided tour of the hangar. Tuesday – Today we visit the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre, home to the Lancaster Bomber, with time for lunch. We continue to the Newark Aviation Museum, which has 70 significant aircraft and cockpits on display before returning home to the Midlands.

Trossachs

Newark Aviation Museum

Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Excursions to Stirling Castle • Visits to The Trossachs & Stirling • Entertainments programme • Burns supper • 1 light lunch • Own courier service

A hotel of character retaining many original features, including extensive oak panelling and a beautifully carved main staircase. Set in 30 acres of grounds, lawns and gardens the hotel was home to the officers mess of 617 Squadron, the famous ‘Dambusters’. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone and tea/coffee facilities. Facilities include bar, lounge, restaurant and snooker room. Mobility Grade: 5 – Locality: On a level location. Hotel: Level. The hotel has a lift. Steps to main entrance which can be avoided. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 2 nights half board • Presentation by leading ‘Dambusters’ historian • Visit to RAF Waddington • Guided tour of RAF Scampton • Guided tour of Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visitors Centre • Admission to Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre and the Newark Aviation Museum • Battlefield Tour Guide • Our own courier service

3 Day Tour

5 Day Tour Mon 21 – Fri 25 Jan 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

Petwood Hotel ### Woodhall Spa

£374 £48 £19.50

Tour departs by 8.00am approx. Returns by 7.00pm approx. Not included: 4 lunches

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Sun 10 – Tue 12 Feb 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

£274 £NIL £14.50

Tour departs by 8.00am approx. Returns by 6.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

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Themed Breaks

© Flickr - erwlas

CLUB CLASS

Northern Lights

© AuroraBorealis.no/www.visitnorway.com.tif

Snowdonia

NEW TOUR

Gems of North Wales An entertaining short break, during which we visit various corners of the culinary globe! This ever popular hotel is renowned for its tasty food and excellent, friendly service. Other highlights of our itinerary include visits to scenic Snowdonia and historic Chester, as well as a light hearted entertainment programme. Tour Itinerary Friday – We travel to Llandudno, making a stop en route for lunch. There is time to settle into our hotel before a champagne cocktail and dinner followed by entertainment. Saturday – Enjoy a scenic drive this morning through the stunning scenery of the Snowdonia National Park, making a stop at the pretty town of Betws-y-Coed. The afternoon is free to enjoy Llandudno, or perhaps join in with the light-hearted quiz or a fun game of bingo at the hotel. This evening is ‘French Bistro Night’, which is followed by entertainment. Sunday – We head to Anglesey today, crossing the famous Menai Bridge with its spectacular views of the Menai Strait. We make a stop in the atmospheric town of Beaumaris, with its impressive castle before returning to Llandudno in the afternoon. There is the opportunity to join in with giant board games in the hotel’s ballroom this afternoon before a ‘Welcome to China’ dinner, which is once again followed by entertainment. Anglesey

Monday – We head to the historic city of Chester on our way home. There is time to explore the shops, discover some of the history and to have lunch before we return home to the Midlands.

The Merrion Hotel ### Llandudno

In a prime position on the resort’s promenade and overlooking the Victorian pier and the magnificent sweep of Llandudno Bay. The Bream family have owned and run The Merrion for three generations and are proud of its position as one of Llandudno’s principal hotels. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone and tea/coffee making facilities. Facilities include restaurant, bar and lounge. Mobility Grade: 3 – Resort: Level seafront and shopping area. Hotel: Level, with a few steps. Ramp entrance. Lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 3 nights half board • Excursions to Snowdonia, Anglesey and Chester • Entertainment during your stay • Our own courier service

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Land of the Northern Lights Cruise Discover the haunting winter landscape sailing along the stunning Norwegian coastline and across the Arctic Circle in search of the spectacular Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights. This atmospheric display of green and pink light dancing across the sky is one of nature’s wonders and Narvik, Tromsø and Alta are among the best places in Norway to witness this Marco Polo by South Quay Travel phenomenon. With a traditional profile, beautiful teak decks and distinctive dark blue hull, Marco Polo is a classic ocean liner. Leisure facilities include Livingston Library, the Nansen Card Room and a wide selection of bars and lounges. Cabin Categories OG Voyager Ocean View Standard Twin Cabin (Atlantic and Coral Decks) Bathroom with shower, hair dryer and TV 5 Single Cabin Picture window, bathroom with shower, hair dryer and TV

Your Cruise Includes • Door to door service • Embarkation point Tilbury • Port taxes • 1 Grade cabin • 14 nights full board • Full on board entertainment programme • Optional excursion programme • Our own courier service

15 Day Cruise Thu 28 Feb – Thu 14 Mar 2013 £1498 Single Ocean View (10) £1152 Holiday insurance (Please contact for details) Various supplements apply. Departure and return times are to be confirmed. Not included: Drinks, gratuities and additional shore excursions

Date

Arrive

Depart

Destination

Late PM

Tilbury UK

Early AM

Late PM

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Thu 28 Fri 1 Sat 2

Late PM

Late PM

At Sea

Sun 3

Early AM

Late PM

Alesund, Norway

Mon 4

Early AM

Late PM

Svartisen, Norway

Tue 5

Early AM

Late PM

Narvik, Norway

Wed 6/Thu 7

Early AM

Late PM

Alta, Norway

Fri 8

Early AM

Late PM

Tromso, Norway

Sat 9

Early AM

Late PM

Sortland, Norway

Sun 10

Early AM

Late PM

At Sea

4 Day Tour

Mon 11

Early AM

Late PM

Andalsues, Norway

Fri 22 – Mon 25 Feb 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

Tue 12

Early AM

Late PM

Bergen, Norwen

Wed 13

Early AM

Late PM

At Sea

Thu 14

Early AM

£328 £NIL £15.50

Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Returns by 5.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

Tilbury, UK

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Themed Breaks Powerscourt House

The Good Old Days

CLUB CLASS NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

The Good Old Days Shamrocks and Saints Bray and its surroundings offer some amazing scenery with mountains peaks and natural wilderness of the Wicklow National Park leading down to a spectacular coastline. A delightful location in which to celebrate traditional Irish St. Patrick’s festivities. make our way back to Dublin for our return sailing to Holyhead, enjoying breakfast on board. Then make the final leg of our journey back home.

The Esplanade Hotel ### Bray, Ireland

Situated on the Bray seafront with fantastic sea views and beautiful promenade. You can enjoy every modern facility in this beautiful historic hotel. Bedrooms are en suite with satellite TV, hairdryer, alarm and tea and coffee making facilities. Facilities include restaurant, cocktail bar and outstanding views. Mobility Grade: 4 – The hotel is on a level and has a lift to all floors.

Leeds Victorian Quarter

Sunday – We return home via the beautiful scenery of the Peak District, making a stop for an included traditional Sunday lunch.

Marriott Leeds #### West Yorkshire

A modern, elegant, 4 star hotel in the heart of the city centre, just a short walk from many of the city’s attractions. Bedrooms are en suite with TV, telephone, iron/ironing board, trouser press, tea/coffee making facilities and hair dryer. Facilities include two restaurants and bars, leisure centre with indoor pool, spa bath and sauna. Mobility Grade: 5 – Locality is level. Hotel has ramp alternatives to all steps and there is a lift to all floors.

Your Tour Includes

Your Tour Includes

• Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Return ferry, Holyhead/Dublin • Admission to Powerscourt House and Gardens • Visit to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Glendalough and County Kildare • Guided tour of the Irish National Stud • Our own courier service

• Door to door service • 2 nights half board • Sunday lunch • Ticket to matinee Performance of the Good Old Days • Free time to explore Leeds • Visits to the National Memorial Arboretum and the Peak District • Sunday lunch • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour Fri 15 – Tue 19 Mar 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

Tour Itinerary Friday – We travel north, where we make a stop at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, where there is time to explore and to have lunch. We continue to Leeds, with time to settle in and enjoy our hotel’s facilities. Saturday – This morning is free to explore the regenerated and much underrated city of Leeds. Perhaps visit nearby Royal Armouries Museum, which is home to the UK’s collection of arms and armour or browse the wide variety of high street and individual shops in the Victoria Quarter. We meet back at the hotel before departing for the matinee performance of ‘The Good Old Days’, joining in with the banter and all the old songs. Many people have fond memories of ‘The Good Old Days’ and the theatre used for the series, the worldfamous ‘City Varieties Music Hall’.

© Flickr – GuitarStrummer56

Tour Itinerary Friday – We travel through North Wales to Holyhead for our afternoon sailing to Dublin, then on to our hotel in Bray where we are met with a quenching welcome drink. Saturday – Today we explore the scenic beauty of the Wicklow Mountains and make a stop at Powerscourt House and Gardens, an example of one of the world’s finest gardens. We then head to Glendalough, an ancient monastic site, then travel via the beautiful wooded Vale of Clara to Avoca, the setting of the popular BBC series ‘Ballykissangel’. Sunday – After a hearty breakfast we head to Dublin to witness the world famous St. Patrick’s Day Parade. You will be entertained by an awesome display of creative talents, as international and Irish bands join performers, dancers and street theatre companies. We return to our hotel in the early evening, for dinner followed by entertainment. Monday – A full day excursion to County Kildare, synonymous with Irish horseracing. Our first stop is the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens, where we take a guided tour through the paddocks and yard and free time to explore the museum. We return to our hotel in the early evening with time to relax before we celebrate St Patrick’s with a traditional Irish dinner and entertainment. Tuesday – It’s time to return home! We

The Leeds City Varieties music hall is the best preserved music hall in the country and is the venue for the rousing show ‘The Good Old Days’. Our centrally based, comfortable hotel is a great base for this nostalgic short break, which includes visits to the National Memorial Arboretum and the Peak District, along with Sunday lunch!

3 Day Tour £448 £61 £32.50

Tour departs by 8.00am approx. Returns by 5.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches.

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Fri 15 – Sun 17 Mar 2013 Single supplement Holiday insurance

£259 £40 £14.50

Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Returns by 5.00pm approx. Not included: 2 lunches

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Themed Break/Mystery Weekend Duxford Air Show

© Flickr – p_a_h

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

CLUB CLASS

Duxford Air Show This themed break is centred around the mesmerising Duxford Air Show, a display of the very best in nostalgic and modern aircraft displays! Our delightful hotel is located in the heart of medieval Cambridge, set back from the hustle and bustle of the town. Tour Itinerary Friday – We travel east arriving at our hotel around lunchtime. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of this city centre hotel and settle in before our delicious evening meal. Saturday – After a relaxing breakfast there is free time to explore the city of Cambridge. There is free time to explore and have lunch, why not visit the impressive cathedral and many other architectural highlights or take a stroll along the canals. We return to our hotel in time for dinner. Sunday – Today we make our way to the Duxford Autumn Air Show, in an outstanding aerial spectacle, the very best historic and modern aircraft display in the skies over this famous airfield. Featuring civilian and military aircraft, the show presents a fantastically varied programme. We return to our hotel in time for dinner. Monday – After another leisurely breakfast there is time to enjoy a last bit of punting in this quaint city before making our way home to the midlands.

DeVere University Arms Cambridge ####

Bathed in green lawn lies this is a rather special historic hotel. It’s an education in quirky British charm and is famous for its hospitality, not to mention its guests over the years from the Beatles to the Krays. Bedrooms are en suite with flat screen TV, tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer, iron and ironing board. Facilities include the Brooks Restaurant, beauty shop, room service and gym. Mobility Grade: 5 – Locality – generally level. There is level access to all areas of the hotel and a lift to all floors.

Mystery Tour If you are undecided which Johnsons’ Short Break to sample next, why not add a touch of adventure and try one of our popular Mystery Weekends? On these well-loved breaks all we can divulge is the date and price; the rest we leave to your imagination! The destination may be north, south, east or west – it may be seaside, it may be city, it may even be countryside…who knows! Such trust must not be abused and you can be sure of a comfortable coach, good hotel accommodation where you can relax and enjoy good hospitality and good fun! We also include an interesting itinerary which will cover about 350 miles of travel over the 3 days, including the outward and return journeys. Lunch on the final day is included and so too are quizzes, games and surprises along the way!

Your Tour Includes Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 2 nights half board • Bedrooms are en-suite with TV and tea/coffee making facilities • A mystery excursion! • Sunday lunch • Our own courier service

• Door to door service • 3 nights half board • Free time in Cambridge • Excursion to Duxford Autumn Air Show • Our own courier service

3 Day Tour

4 Day Tour Fri 12 – Mon 15 Oct 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

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£375 £75 £15.50

Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Return by 6.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

Fri 22 – Sun 24 Mar 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

£229 £40 £14.50

Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Return by 5.00pm approx. Not included: 2 lunches

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Weekend Specials We are pleased to repeat these 1 night short breaks in our programme. They offer excellent value for money, whilst providing the same comforts as our other tours including first class hotels, comfortable coaches and friendly drivers, along with the opportunity to experience some great locations. Tours depart from our Henley Depot, but we will be happy to arrange door to door service for just £30 per person. To book simply call us on 01564 797 000 (option 0) and we will be happy to help.

Sunday – We depart our hotel after breakfast and make our way to the Roman City of Chester, with time to explore the city, perhaps: • Take a boat trip on the River Dee • Visit the city’s cathedral, Roman Walls or the ‘rows’ shopping area Our homeward journey begins at 3.30pm and our direct journey means that we reach Henley by 7.00pm approx.

2 Day Tour Sat 3 – Sun 4 Nov 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

£108 £18 £12

NEW Itinerary

CLUB CLASS

Crowne Plaza #### Liverpool South The hotel is set in a magnificently restored Art Deco building, 6 miles out of the city centre. Bedrooms are en-suite with tea/coffee making facilities, a TV, telephone and hairdryer. Facilities include restaurant, bar and lounge. Mobility Grade: 5 – Locality: flat. Hotel: No steps and lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes

Tour departs by 8.30am Returns by 7.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches and entrance charges to any attractions, courier/porterage. Door to door service £30 per person

© Flickr - dbaron

Cambridge

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

Marriott Huntingdon #### Nestled on the outskirts of Cambridgeshire, a welcoming hotel with excellent facilities. Bedrooms are en suite with flat screen TV, tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer, iron and ironing board. Facilities include the Brooks Restaurant, beauty shop, room service and gym. Mobility Grade: 5 – Locality – generally level. There is level access to all areas of the hotel and a lift to all floors.

Sunday – We depart our hotel after breakfast and make our way to the town of Huntingdon, with time to explore, perhaps visit: • Learn more about the life of Oliver Cromwell at the Cromwell Museum • One of the many historic houses, churches and museums.

Your Tour Includes

Our homeward journey begins at 3.30pm and our direct journey means that we reach Henley by 7.00pm approx.

• Free, secure parking at Henley Coach Depot • All coach travel • 1 night half board • 4 star hotel • Free time to explore Cambridge

2 Day Tour Sun 24 – Mon 25 Feb 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

£108 £20 £12

Saturday – This morning is free to enjoy more of York’s attractions, perhaps: • Take a ride on the open topped bus, an ideal way to see the city • Visit the fascinating Castle or National Railway Museum’s Our homeward journey begins at 3.00pm and means that we reach Henley by 7.00pm approx.

Tour departs by 10.00am Returns by 7.00pm approx Not included: All lunches and entrance charges to any attractions, courier/porterage. Door to door service £30 per person

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

The Queens Hotel ### York The hotel is set on the banks of the River Ouse right in the heart of the city. Bedrooms are en-suite with tea/coffee making facilities, a TV, telephone and hairdryer Facilities include restaurant, bar and lounge. Mobility Grade: 5 – Locality: generally level. Hotel: lift or slope alternative to steps. Your Tour Includes • Free, secure parking at Henley Coach Depot • All coach travel • 1 night half board • 3 star hotel • Free time to explore York

• Free, secure parking at Henley Coach Depot • All coach travel • 1 night half board • 4 star hotel • Free time to explore Liverpool

Classic Cambridge Tour Itinerary Saturday – Departing Henley at 10.00am we travel directly to Cambridge, arriving in the city in the early afternoon. Places to visit include: • Be inspired by the many beautiful museums and art galleries. Admire the beautiful architecture and majestic college buildings. • Explore quaint passages set around the historic market place and colleges, where a unique and relaxing shopping experience can be found. Then board our coach for the short journey to our hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Tour Itinerary Friday – Departing Henley at 8.00am we travel to York, with a convenient stop en route, arriving in the city by approximately 12.30am. Places to visit include: • The magnificent York Minster – one of the great cathedrals of the world. • The Shambles where you can pick up some last minute Christmas presents. In the evening enjoy dinner and overnight stay at our hotel.

© www.visityork.org

© Flickr – Nick Bramhall

Tour Itinerary Saturday – Departing Henley at 8.30am we travel directly to Liverpool, arriving in the city by approximately 11.30am. Places to visit include: • The Albert Dock, which is a World Heritage Site and offers an interesting array of waterfront shops, cafes and museums. • Museums include the Tate Gallery, the Maritime Museum and the ‘Beatles Story’ which is a shrine to the legendary pop group. Then board our coach for the short journey to our hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

York

York Christmas Shopper

2 Day Tour Fri 21 – Sat 22 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

£108 £18 £12

Tour departs by 8.00am Returns by 7.00pm approx Not included: All lunches and entrance charges to any attractions, courier/porterage. Door to door service £30 per person Harrogate

Harrogate, Ripon & The Peak District Tour Itinerary Sunday – Departing Henley at 9.00am, we travel north to our destination with its cosmopolitan atmosphere, smart streets and quaint mews. We arrive mid afternoon, with time to explore a little and perhaps: • Browse the selection of individual shops and boutiques • Treat yourself to afternoon tea at the world famous Betty’s Tea Rooms! We check in to our hotel with plenty of time to relax before dinner and our overnight stay. Monday – This morning is free to enjoy Harrogate’s attractions. Why not: • Pay a visit to the town’s Turkish Baths and Spa to unwind • Browse antiques and unusual gifts in the stylish Montpellier Quarter We leave Harrogate at 1.30pm and make our way to Ripon, with its many attractions including the cathedral and Workhouse Museum. We return to Henley at around 5.00pm.

2 Day Tour Sun 3 – Mon 4 Mar 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

£108 £NIL £12

© C L T Smith

Liverpool

Liverpool and Chester

NEW HOTEL

CLUB CLASS

Harrogate Majestic Hotel #### A Victorian landmark in the heart of this bustling spa town, surrounded by boutiques and antique shops. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer and trouser press. Facilities include the restaurant, lounge and bar. Mobility Grade 4: – Locality – Fairly level. Hotel – Side entrance alternative to steps into the main entrance. Lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Free, secure parking at Henley Coach Depot • All coach travel • 1 night half board • 4 star hotel • Visits to the Peak District and historic Ripon • Free time to explore Harrogate

Tour departs by 9.00am Returns by 5.00pm approx Not included: All lunches and entrance charges to any attractions, courier/porterage. Door to door service £30 per person.

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Springtime Breaks

CLUB CLASS

Lake District

© Flickr – Tomorrow Never Knows

© Flickr – North Devon Council

Barnstaple Pannier Market

CLUB CLASS

Barnstaple & North Devon North Devon is a delightful mixture of dramatic coastline and magnificent moorland scenery, sprinkled with unspoilt resorts, bustling market towns and quaintly named villages. Barnstaple is said to be the oldest borough in the kingdom and was founded at the lowest crossing point of the River Taw. Tour Itinerary Thursday – A smooth ride to the West Country, paying a visit to beautiful Hestercombe Gardens en route, with its formal terraces, cascades and breathtaking views. We continue to our hotel with time to settle in and enjoy the comfortable surroundings before dinner. Friday – The day has been left free for you to enjoy Barnstaple. Discover for yourself the Longbridge over the River Taw’s Atlantic estuary, St Mary’s Church with its crooked spire, and many other fascinating glimpses into the history of this Saxon town. There is also a range of shopping experiences from the traditional Pannier Market and Butchers’ Row to a modern indoor shopping complex. Saturday – A gentle ride into the delightful Devon countryside. We venture into the rugged moorland of Exmoor National Park and experience the charm of the coast as we see Lynton perched high on the cliffs above its twin town, Lynmouth, and return through Ilfracombe and Braunton. Sunday – After a leisurely breakfast we leave Barnstaple and return home, making a convenient lunch stop en-route.

With its beautiful combination of rugged crags, rolling wooded valleys and tranquil lakes, the Lake District holds a special fascination. The bustling market town of Keswick is our base, from which we will explore some of Cumbria’s most stunning and dramatic landscapes, which will be starting to burst into springtime life.

The Imperial Hotel #### Barnstaple

Located in the centre of Barnstaple and just a short walk from the shops, this hotel has an old style charm, making it very popular with our clients. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone and tea/coffee making facilities. Facilities include restaurant, ‘Colours Bar’ and comfortable lounge. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality flat. Hotel: All public rooms are on the level. Lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 3 nights half board • Admission to Hestercombe Gardens • Excursions to Lynton, Lynmouth and Exmoor National Park • Our own courier service

Exmoor

© Flickr – me'nthedogs

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Tour Itinerary Friday – We travel north to the Lake District, making a suitable stop for lunch en route. Saturday – This morning is free to relax and explore Keswick; perhaps visit the Cumberland Pencil Museum, or enjoy a boat trip on Derwent Water and take in some beautiful views. This afternoon, we include a scenic drive, along with a delicious Borrowdale cream tea. Sunday – A superb scenic excursion by ‘Mountain Goat’ minibus. Using smaller roads, not accessible to coaches, enjoy the stunning scenery as we travel over the Kirkstone Pass before stopping at Bowness for lunch and time to explore. We continue to Coniston, where we enjoy a relaxing cruise, passing through more breathtaking scenery and making a short stop at Grasmere before returning to Keswick. Monday – It’s time to return home today, we make a stop for lunch in nearby Kendal before continuing our journey south. Mountain Goat

The Skiddaw Hotel ### Keswick

This popular hotel enjoys an excellent location in the market square of the lovely town of Keswick. The hotel provides superb standards and very friendly service. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Facilities include cocktail bar and conservatory, stylish restaurant and pleasant lounge. Mobility Grade: 4 – Town: Generally level. Hotel: Level location. Lift to all floors. Your Holiday Includes • Door to door service • 3 nights half board • Free time to explore Keswick • Scenic drive • Borrowdale cream tea • Mountain Goat minibus excursion • Cruise on Coniston Water • Our own courier service

4 Day Tour

4 Day Tour Thu 7 – Sun 10 Mar 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

Springtime in the Lake District

£328 £NIL £15.50

Tour departs by 9.00am approx. Returns by 4.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

Fri 8 – Mon 11 Mar 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

£354 £NIL £15.50

Tour departs by 9.00am approx. Returns by 6.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Springtime Breaks

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

Springtime in Scarborough Overlooking two sweeping bays, with a busy fishing harbour and old town, Scarborough offers a charming combination of seafaring traditions, beautifully tended gardens and modern entertainment. Tour Itinerary Monday – Our journey north takes us over the Humber Bridge, completed in 1981 and opened by the Queen. We stop for lunch in Beverley before continuing our journey to our hotel in Scarborough. Tuesday – This morning we take a coastal drive as we head towards Whitby, famed for its connection to Captain Cook. There is time to explore the ruins of the abbey with its interesting history. We return to Scarborough via the harbour and River Esk. Wednesday – A free morning to explore Scarborough. In the afternoon we take a short cruise along the Yorkshire coast. Thursday – Opened in 1987, Eden Camp has grown into one of the largest and most comprehensive museums, covering British military and social history. We include time for lunch to be taken in the prisoner’s canteen and officer’s mess. Friday – We begin our journey home with a break in the spa town of Harrogate. Perhaps take tea and cakes at Betty’s Tea Room which first opened in 1919 before moving to its current site. After time to take lunch we continue to our journey home.

The Esplanade Hotel ### Scarborough

This comfortable and friendly hotel, with first class service occupies a commanding position on Scarborough’s South Cliff. Bedrooms are en suite with TV, tea/coffee making facilities. Facilities include restaurant, bar, lounge and games room. Mobility Grade: 3 – A long level frontage and lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Excursions to Whitby and Eden Camp • Cruise of the Yorkshire coast • Our own courier service

© Flickr – David Locke1

Whitby

CLUB CLASS

Sidmouth & East Devon Coast As winter turns to spring, this beautiful resort blossoms. Spring flowers begin to provide an array of colour and the bay starts to turn to blue again. Sidmouth is a small, unhurried and unspoilt resort of charm and elegance, with a flat promenade and dignified Regency buildings set amidst beautiful coastal scenery. Tour Itinerary Tuesday – A leisurely journey to Sidmouth with a convenient lunch stop en-route, arriving at our hotel with time to explore before dinner. Wednesday – This morning we take a fascinating guided tour on board our coach, taking in various locations with connections to Agatha Christie, who spent much of her life in the area. We return to our hotel in the afternoon, with time to relax before a tasty dinner. Thursday – Free time to enjoy the hotel’s delightful location and Sidmouth’s charm. Perhaps stroll along the promenade or investigate the interesting shops. Friday – Today we visit lovely Bicton Park Botanical Gardens – 60 acres of gardens, elegant water features and a magnificent 19th century Palm House. We return to Sidmouth via the pretty town of Budleigh Salterton. Saturday – We commence our homeward journey, which includes a visit to beautiful Killerton House (NT), one of the largest estates owned by the National Trust. There is time for lunch here before we continue our journey home to the Midlands.

The Kingswood & Devoran Hotel ### Sidmouth

One of our clients’ favourites and for over 50 years under the direct and careful management of its owners, the Seward family. The hotel enjoys a superb seafront location on the Esplanade with excellent sea views. Bedrooms are en-suite with television, radio, telephone and tea/coffee making facilities. Facilities include two sea view lounges and attractive dining room. Mobility Grade: 5 – Resort: On the level. Hotel: On the level, with occasional steps. Lift to most floors. Steps to some bedrooms. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Scenic Agatha Christie excursion • Admission to Bicton Park Gardens and Killerton House (NT) • Excursion to Budleigh Salterton • Free time to explore Sidmouth • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour

5 Day Tour Mon 11 – Fri 15 Mar 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

Budleigh Salterton

© Flickr – srwsrwuk

© Stephen McCulloch

Scarborough

£334 £NIL £19.50

Tour departs by 9.00am approx. Returns by 5.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Tue 19 – Sat 23 Mar 2013 £418 Single room £NIL Rooms at this hotel vary and a number of supplements apply Holiday insurance £19.50 Reduction for National Trust members

Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Returns by 5.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

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Archive Provincia di Imperia – Riviera dei Fiori

Springtime Breaks Diano Marina

CLUB CLASS

Italian Riviera of Flowers in Springtime The mild climate of the Italian Riviera of Flowers makes this an ideal location for a springtime visit. Beautiful mountains clad with olive groves and vineyards slope down to azure seas and there are picturesque villages full of charm and character. Diano Marina is a beautiful resort with a wide promenade which runs the full length of the bay. Highlights of our itinerary include visits to Portofino, San Remo and Monaco. Tour Itinerary Wednesday – To Dover for the ferry to France and on to our overnight stay. Thursday – We continue south and arrive at our hotel in Diano Marina in the afternoon. After settling in to the hotel, we enjoy our first dinner. Friday – We travel along the Riviera, past the port of Genoa to Rapallo where we board our boat to Portofino, an enchanting fishing village with pretty harbour. After free time for lunch, we take a scenic drive back to Diano Marina with time to explore or relax in the hotel before dinner. Saturday – Today, we make the short journey to the pretty seaside town of Alassio, set in its own bay. Enjoy the views and sample a delicious ice cream from one of the gelateria. We return to Diano Marina, where the rest of the day is free to spend as you wish. Perhaps explore the shops, admire the spring flowers or join in with the traditional passeggiata, a stroll along the promenade. Sunday – Relax and enjoy Diano Marina’s lovely seaside setting and the facilities of our hotel. Monday – Today we take a guided tour of Monaco and Monte Carlo to rub shoulders with the rich and famous! Perhaps visit the Museum of Napoleon Souvenirs or perhaps stroll to the harbour and admire the magnificent yachts. Tuesday – After breakfast, we depart Diano Marina for the return journey to Dijon for our overnight stay. Wednesday – We head north to Calais and our ferry to England.

Hotel Torino #### Diano Marina

This family run hotel has a modern, yet welcoming feel with comfortable furnishings. It is centrally located in the heart of Diano Marina, just minutes walk from the promenade. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone and hair dryer. Facilities include restaurant, bar, lounge area and breakfast room with scenic views. Mobility Grade: 4 – Resort: Generally level. Hotel: Lift to all floors. Overnight Hotels: Dinner, bed and breakfast are provided in a good hotel near Dijon on the outward and return journeys. Bedrooms in hotels are en-suite with TV and telephone. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • Return ferry via Dover/Calais (75 mins) • 7 nights half board including a Ligurian Dinner • Excursions to Portofino and Alassio • Guided tour of Monaco and Monte Carlo • Free time to explore Diano Marina • Farewell drink • Our own courier service

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CLUB CLASS

Castles & Palaces of Perthshire This tour takes in some of Scotland’s most impressive castles including Blair Castle, Scone Palace and Glamis Castle. We include guided tours, which bring the history of these monuments to life as we hear fascinating stories of their past. Tour Itinerary Monday – We travel north to Bonnie Scotland. Enjoy a welcome drink at the hotel, along with a presentation on the castles and palaces in the area. Tuesday – This morning, we make our way to Blair Castle, which enjoys one of Scotland’s finest settings in the heart of Highland Perthshire. We enjoy a guided tour to learn something of the castle’s 740 year history. This afternoon, we head to the picturesque town of Pitlochry for a tour of the Blair Athol Distillery. This evening, enjoy a dinner dance and cabaret at our hotel. Wednesday – Our destination today is beautiful Scone Palace, once the capital of the Picts, the seat of parliaments and the crowning place of the Scottish kings including Macbeth and Robert the Bruce. A guided tour brings the fascinating history to life and we learn about the celebrated Stone of Destiny and the outstanding collection of antiques, paintings and rare artefacts. Returning to our hotel, we call at the Perthshire Visitor Centre. This evening’s dinner has a Scottish themed menu and is followed by entertainment. Thursday – Glamis Castle was the ancestral home of the Earls of Strathmore for over 600 years and was the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. The castle has witnessed more than 600 years of history and our guide will share some of the many stories, secrets and intriguing tales Blair Castle

that surround it. Our final dinner this evening is followed by entertainment. Friday – We return home, making a convenient lunch stop en-route.

Angus Hotel ### Blairgowrie, Perthshire

This traditionally styled hotel is located in the centre of the town. Bedrooms are en suite with TV, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities, iron/ironing board, trouser press and hair dryer. Facilities include restaurant, bar, lounge and leisure club with spa bath, steam room, sauna and heated indoor pool. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality generally level. Hotel: Public areas are level but there are several steps to most bedrooms and in corridors. There is a lift. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Welcome drink • Glass of wine with dinner on 3 evenings • Entertainment programme • Afternoon tea • Guided tour of Blair Castle, Blair Athol Distillery, Scone Palace and Glamis Castle • Visit to the Perthshire Visitor Centre • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour

8 Day Tour Wed 20 – Wed 27 Mar 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

Scone Palace

£774 £144 £41

Tours depart by 5.00am approx. Returns by 9.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

Mon 25 – Fri 29 Mar 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

£364 £NIL £19.50

Tours depart by 8.00am approx. Returns by 7.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Springtime Breaks Keukenhof

CLUB CLASS

Dutch Bulbfields In springtime, much of the countryside in Holland is covered in a rich carpet of colour as spectacular bulb fields and famous tulips form a colourful blanket. Keukenhof is justly named ‘The Greatest Flower Show on Earth’; some 6,000,000 bulbs bloom here every year, transforming it into a veritable sea of flowers. This tour is sure to delight gardeners and non-gardeners alike! Tour Itinerary Friday – To Dover for the ferry to Calais then across Belgium and into Holland, arriving at our hotel on the shores of Lake Veluwemeer, about an hour’s drive from Amsterdam. Saturday – Today we travel to awardwinning Keukenhof Gardens, showpiece of the Dutch bulb industry with some 80 acres of colourful floral displays. In the afternoon there is free time to explore or maybe take a ride on one of the ‘whisper boats’, which are almost silent as they sail through the beautiful bulb landscape. Sunday – We visit Amsterdam, Holland’s capital, where there is plenty of time to explore during our visit today. Perhaps take a boat trip or find a vantage point to soak up the atmosphere and watch the world go by, or alternatively visit one of the many museums, including Anne Frank’s House and the Rembrandt Museum. Monday – A leisurely drive takes us to the charming fishing town of Volendam, with a historic ambience that hasn’t changed much in six centuries! Here you will find a picturesque harbour where fresh fish is still landed daily, narrow main streets, small houses and shops with gabled roofs and Amsterdam

some of the local residents still wear traditional costume. Tuesday – Leaving our hotel we make our way back to Calais and our ferry to Dover and home. Please note: This tour involves a reasonable amount of walking. Postillion Hotel Amersfoort #### Veluwemeer

Our comfortable, modern hotel is in a unique location on the shores of the Veluwemeer Lake. Bedrooms are en suite with balcony and lake or harbour view, TV, telephone, minisafe and hair dryer. Facilities include restaurant, bar, lounge, terrace, garden and leisure centre with gym, sauna and Turkish bath. Mobility Grade: 5 – Location is level. Hotel is level and has a lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes

© Flickr – tinken

• Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Return ferry Dover/Calais (75 mins) • Excursions to Amsterdam and Volendam • Admission to Keukenhof Gardens • Our own courier service

© Flickr – choking sun

NEW Itinerary

Keukenhof

NEW Itinerary

CLUB CLASS

Dutch Bulbfields Cruise We are pleased to repeat this popular cruise, which gives you the chance to experience Holland from a different and leisurely angle. Relax as we cruise between the ports of call, which include Hoorn, Volendam and the world famous Keukenhof gardens. Tour Itinerary Thursday – We travel to Dover for the short ferry crossing to Calais and arrive in Zaandam, where we board the MPS Esmeralda. Friday – We take an excursion to the beautifully preserved Dutch village of Zaanse Schans, with its characteristic wooden houses, museums and windmills. We return to the ship for lunch and during the afternoon cruise to Alkmaar, a busy town famed for its ancient cheese market. Saturday – An early departure as we cruise to the bustling port of Hoorn, birthplace of the explorer Willem Schouten, who named the infamous Cape Horn after his home town. Explore the 17th century merchants houses and warehouses lining the waterfront and admire the yachts in the harbour. This evening, we continue on the Ijsselmeer to Volendam. Sunday – We leave Volendam and travel to the beautiful Keukenhof Gardens, which will be awash with colour at this time of year. Maybe take a ride on one of the ‘whisper boats’, which are almost silent as they sail through the beautiful bulb landscape. We include a packed lunch to be taken during our time in the gardens. Monday – We disembark after breakfast and return to Calais to catch our ferry to Dover and then continue home to the Midlands.

MPS Esmeralda ###

A cosy and comfortable vessel decorated in traditional Dutch style and with a welcoming ambience. Cabins are twin, with en suite, telephone, TV and minisafe. Facilities include restaurant, lounge and sundeck. Mobility Grade: 2 – Ship is boarded by a gangway and there may be several steps. There are steps to the restaurant and lounge and to access some cabins. Lift to lower deck and chairlift to sun deck. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights full board whilst on board the MPS Esmeralda • Welcome drink, 4 course dinner, 3 course lunch, hot and cold buffet breakfast, afternoon tea and cake, midnight snack, Captain’s farewell dinner • Daily live music • Admission to Keukenhof Gardens • Return ferry Dover/Calais (75 mins) • Our own courier service

5 Day Cruise 5 Day Tour Fri 12 – Tue 16 Apr 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

£538 £106 £32.50

Tour departs by 5.00am approx. Returns by 9.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Thu 18 – Mon 22 Apr 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

£648 £149 £32.50

Tour departs by 5.00am approx. Returns by 9.00pm approx. Not included: Drinks, gratuities and 2 lunches

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Fred. Olsen Cruises We are delighted to continue our relationship with Fred. Olsen and to introduce a selection of four new cruises for 2013. Cruising is a great way to travel and to explore a variety of ports of call without unpacking your suitcase every day! Fred. Olsen is a trusted, family managed company with high levels of service. The characterful ships maintain the traditions of a more refined and leisurely era and are designed to make you feel at home; they are spacious and comfortable, yet small enough to take you right into the heart of things. You can be assured of a warm welcome; the officers and crew make you feel relaxed the moment you step on board and throughout your cruise, you will be looked after by a dedicated and friendly team. Our own courier is also on hand to ensure that you have an enjoyable and memorable cruise. Our cruises this year take in the fabulous Fjords and Coastal Towns of Norway; Islands, Highlands and Ireland; Spain, Portugal and Gibraltar and A voyage to the Azores and Canaries. There is an interesting and varied programme of optional shore excursions on all cruises – you will be spoilt for choice!

Fjords and Coastal Towns of Norway

Sognefjord

The largest ship in the fleet, but still small enough to offer an intimate cruising experience. Leisure facilities include two pools, spa treatments and a wide selection of bars and lounges. Your Cruise Includes • Door to door service • Embarkation point Southampton • Port taxes • D Grade cabin • 8 nights full board • Full on board entertainment programme • Optional excursion programme • Our own courier service

Mon 10 – Tue 18 Jun 2013 Single Outside (K) Holiday insurance – Please contact us for details.

Arrive

Depart

Destination

Late PM

Southampton, UK

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Your Cruise Includes • Door to door service • Embarkation point Southampton • Port taxes • D Grade cabin • 10 nights full board • Full on board entertainment programme • Optional excursion programme • Our own courier service

11 Day Cruise Tue 16 – Fri 26 Jul 2013 Single Outside (K) Holiday insurance – Please contact us for details.

£1288 £689

Departure and return times are to be confirmed. Not included: Drinks, gratuities and additional shore excursions

£1138 £602

June 2013 Mon 10

Cabin Categories D Outside cabin (Atlantic and Coral Decks) Picture window, bathroom with bath and/or shower, hair dryer and TV K Single Outside Cabin (Coral Deck) Cabin with picture window, bathroom with shower, hair dryer and TV

9 Day Cruise

Departure and return times are to be confirmed. Not included: Drinks, gratuities and additional shore excursions Date

NEW CRUISE

Balmoral

Balmoral

Cabin Categories D Outside cabin (Atlantic and Coral Decks) Picture window, bathroom with bath and/or shower, hair dryer and TV K Single Outside Cabin (Coral Deck) Cabin with picture window, bathroom with shower, hair dryer and TV

Isle of Mull

The coast of the United Kingdom and Ireland is varied and beautiful and this interesting cruise gives you the opportunity to see the coastline from a very different angle. Optional excursions include Floral Guernsey, Dublin and the stunning Orkney Islands.

Norway in midsummer is stunning: some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, clothed in clouds of summer flowers, blue skies and days that seem to last forever. Bergen was once the capital of Norway and is a cosmopolitan city, the pretty little town of Flåm is found at the end of the Sognefjord and is surrounded on all sides by deep green valleys, with meadows and roaring waterfalls. Not to be missed!

The largest ship in the fleet, but still small enough to offer an intimate cruising experience. Leisure facilities include two pools, spa treatments and a wide selection of bars and lounges.

Islands, Highlands & Ireland

Date

Arrive

Depart

Destination

Late PM

Southampton, UK

July 2013 Tue 16 Wed 17

Early AM

Late PM

St Peter Port, Guernsey

Thu 18 to Fri 19

Late PM

Late PM

Dublin, Ireland

Sat 20

Early AM

Late PM

Tobermory, Isle of Mull

Wed 12

Early PM

Late PM

Haugesund, Norway

Thu 13

Early AM

Late PM

Flam, Sognefjord

Sun 21

Early AM

Late PM

Ullapool, UK

Fri 14

Early AM

Late PM

Olden, Sogn og Fjordane, Norway

Mon 22

Early AM

Late PM

Kirkwall, Orkneys

Tue 23

Early AM

Late PM

Stornoway, Lewis

Sat 15

Early AM

Late Night

Bergen, Hordaland

Sun 16

Early AM

Early PM

Stavanger, Norway

Wed 24

Early AM

Late PM

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Tue 18

Early AM

Fri 26

Early AM

Southampton, UK

Southampton, UK

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Lisbon

Lagoa do Fogo, Azores

© Flickr – davehighbury

NEW CRUISE NEW CRUISE

A Voyage to the Azores and Canary Islands

Spain, Portugal and Gibraltar Taking in the ports of Lisbon, Alicante, Mahon, Gibraltar and La Coruna. Choose from some of the many sights along the way, including the walled town of Obidos, where the imposing castle and views of the citadel walls are bound to impress with panoramic views from the summit of the rock. Balmoral

Your Cruise Includes

The largest ship in the fleet, but still small enough to offer an intimate cruising experience. Leisure facilities include two pools, spa treatments and a wide selection of bars and lounges.

• Door to door service • Embarkation point Southampton • Port taxes • D Grade cabin • 12 nights full board • Full on board entertainment programme • Optional excursion programme • Our own courier service

Cabin Categories D Outside cabin (Atlantic and Coral Decks) Picture window, bathroom with bath and/or shower, hair dryer and TV K Single Outside Cabin (Coral Deck) Cabin with picture window, bathroom with shower, hair dryer and TV

13 Day Cruise Sun 11 – Fri 23 Aug 2013 Single Outside (K) Holiday insurance – Please contact us for details.

£1548 £837

On this cruise holiday, you will also be able to visit three ports on the islands of the Archipelago of the Azores – Praia da Vitoria, Horta and Ponta Delgada, a well-kept Portuguese secret, still considered remote in these days of travel to almost anywhere in the world! Black Watch

Your Cruise Includes

Experience the classic cruising pedigree of a bygone age, as the teak decks and soft tones of the stylish decor all contribute to a sense of relaxation and enjoyment.

• Door to door service • Embarkation point Dover • Port taxes • D Grade cabin • 16 nights full board • Full on board entertainment programme • Optional excursion programme • Our own courier service

Cabin Categories D Outside cabin (Atlantic Deck) Porthole, bathroom with bath and shower (or shower only), hairdryer and TV L Single Outside Cabin (Atlantic and Marina Decks) Porthole, bathroom with shower, hairdryer, TV

17 Day Cruise Thu 3 – Sat 19 Oct 2013 Single Outside (L) Holiday insurance – Please contact us for details.

£1768 £677

Departure and return times are to be confirmed. Not included: Drinks, gratuities and shore excursions

Departure and return times are to be confirmed. Not included: Drinks, gratuities and additional shore excursions

Madeira

© Flickr – syvwlch

Obidos

Date

Arrive

Depart

Destination

October 2013 Thu 03 Date

Arrive

Depart

Destination

Late PM

Southampton, UK

August 2013 Sun 11 Wed 14

Early AM

Late PM

Lisbon, Portugal

Fri 16

Early AM

Late PM

Alicante, Spain

Late PM

Dover, UK

Mon 07

Early AM

Late Night

Praia da Vitoria, Azores

Tue 08

Early AM

Late PM

Horta, Azores

Wed 09

Early AM

Late PM

Ponta Delgada, Azores

Fri 11

Early AM

Late PM

Funchal, Madeira

Sat 17

Early AM

Late PM

Mahon, Spain

Sat 12

Late AM

Late PM

Sta Cruz de Tenerife

Mon 19

Early AM

Early PM

Gibraltar

Sun 13

Early AM

Late PM

Arrecife, Lanzarote

Wed 21

Early AM

Late PM

La Coruna, Spain

Tue 15 to Wed 16

Early AM

Early PM

Lisbon, Portugal

Fri 23

Early AM

Southampton, UK

Sat 19

Early AM

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Dover, UK

37


Air Holidays Sausmarez Manor

Laxey Wheel

Guernsey & Herm with Optional Sark The island of Guernsey lies in the sheltered bay of St Malo, only a few miles from the coastlines of Normandy and Brittany. The relaxed lifestyle and the mild climate create a refreshingly unique character. Experience the peace and tranquility of the small neighbouring island of Herm. Tour Itinerary Sunday – The holiday commences with a pick up from your home and a transfer to Birmingham Airport to join the short flight to Guernsey. Monday – Today we visit the island’s capital, St Peter Port. We enjoy a guided tour of the town followed by a free afternoon; perhaps take the opportunity to visit Victor Hugo’s house. Tuesday – Get to know the north of the island with a full day tour which will include a visit to the interesting Folk Museum. Wednesday – We join a catamaran for a visit to the lovely, peaceful island of Herm which is famous for its Shell Beach. Thursday – An optional excursion to the beautiful and unspoiled island of Sark. Alternatively, you may wish to relax at your hotel or explore the local surroundings. Friday – The south of the island is our destination today, including a visit to beautiful Sausmarez Manor, which the same family has occupied for eight centuries. We include admission to the beautiful and unusual subtropical gardens. Saturday – A free day to explore more of Guernsey. Local buses operate from nearby and provide easy access to the centre of St Peter Port and the rest of the island. Sunday – Our return flight to Birmingham completes your holiday. Note: Clients who are unable to walk reasonable distances may be limited in their enjoyment of the holiday. All air and sea journeys are weather permitting and the itinerary may be varied for weather and tidal conditions.

Note: flights and itinerary may be amended slightly due to local conditions.

St Pierre Park #### St Peter Port

This recently refurbished stylish hotel is set in rolling acres of beautiful parkland, woodland and lakes. Bedrooms are en suite with balcony or terrace, TV, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities, Wi-fi and hair dryer. Facilities include restaurant, bar, 9 hole golf course and health spa. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality generally level. Hotel, occasional steps in public areas and a lift to all floors. Your Holiday Includes • Door to door service • Our own courier service • Return flights from Birmingham Airport (1 hour) • Airport taxes and security charges • All coach transfers • 7 nights half board • Guided tour of St Peter Port • Guernsey island tour • Excursion to Herm • Optional excursion to Sark • Admission to Folk Museum and Sausmarez Manor & Gardens

38

An island rich in tradition and steeped in history, the Isle of Man is distinctive and different in coastline, countryside and culture. Life is leisurely and unhurried and the friendly inhabitants will help you to enjoy the rich variety of places to see. Tour Itinerary Friday – To Birmingham Airport for the 1 hour flight to the Isle of Man. Saturday – Today, we travel to Douglas, the island’s capital where we board a steam train for a ride through lovely countryside to Port Erin, where we spend some time. The trains date back to 1874 and our journey takes us through picturesque scenery. Sunday – We include a ride on the Snaefell Mountain Railway, which at 2,036ft offers some spectacular views (weather permitting!) of the island. Monday – Today’s excursion takes us to Rushen Abbey (NT) with its fascinating, ‘Story of Mann’. We continue to Castletown and Peel before returning to our hotel. Tuesday – The day begins with a visit to the Curraghs Wildlife Park. Then on to ‘Royal’ Ramsey with its long promenade, before visiting the famous Laxey Wheel (NT). Wednesday – Tynwald is the home of the Manx Parliament, which has Nordic origins and is the oldest parliament in the world. After an interesting visit here, we continue to Douglas, where your time is free to explore. Perhaps visit the Manx Museum, admire the Jubilee Clock or stroll along the stylish seafront. Thursday – We tour the south of the island today, taking in Port St Mary and the picturesque Cregneash Folk Museum (NT), as well as the Calf of Sound. We make our way to the airport to join our 1 hour flight to Birmingham and return home.

Note: flights and itinerary may be amended slightly due to local conditions. Mount Murray Hotel #### Santon, Isle of Man

Set in 200 acres of beautiful Manx countryside, this hotel has spectacular view across the Island. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone, and tea/coffee making facilities, hair dryer and trouser press. Facilities include restaurant, bar, lounge area, pool, sauna, steam room, hydrotherapy pool and gym. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality – Fairly level. Hotel – Lift to all floors. Several steps to leisure area. Your Holiday Includes • Door to door service • Our own courier service • 6 nights with half board • Return flights from Birmingham Airport (1 hour) • Airport to hotel transfers • Excursion to Ramsey • Visit to the Laxey Wheel (NT) • Ride on the Isle of Man Steam Railway and the Snaefell Mountain Railway • Admission to Cregneash Folk Village (NT), Curraghs Wildlife Park and Rushen Abbey (NT) • Visits to Port St Mary and Tynwald

7 Day Tours

8 Day Tours Sun 23 – Sun 30 Sep 2012 Holiday insurance Double for sole occupancy Garden view

Isle of Man

£914 £41 £175 £35

Tour departs by 12.00noon approx. Returns by 4.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches, excursion to Island of Sark (approx £30)

Fri 28 Sep – Thu 4 Oct 2012 £798 Single room £72 Holiday insurance £39.50 Reduction for National Trust members

Tour departs by 7.00am approx. Returns by 5.30pm approx. Not included: All lunches

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Air Holidays Jerash

Camara De Lobos

© Flickr – danielduce

NEW TOUR

Jordan, Petra & The Dead Sea Jordan has captivated travellers throughout the centuries. From the majestic ruins of bygone civilizations to the timeless splendour of the Dead Sea. Highlights of our tour include visits to Petra, Jerash and Mount Nebo. A trip not to be missed! Tour Itinerary Monday – We travel to Heathrow for our 1605 flight to Amman. On arrival, we are transferred to our hotel in Amman for 3 nights, the Ramada Amman. Tuesday – Today, we enjoy a full day tour of Jordan’s capital city, Amman. Sights include the King Abduallah Mosque, the National Archaeological Museum and the 2nd century amphitheatre, where works by the famous Greek and Roman playwrights were performed. Wednesday – We drive north to Jerash, one of the most beautiful and best preserved Greco-Roman cities in the world. Excavations uncovered two theatres, several temples and churches. The afternoon is free in Jerash. Thursday – Madaba is the city of mosaics and dates back to 1,200BC. We visit the main attraction of the town, the 6th century Byzantine mosaic map of the sites in the biblical world. We continue to Mount Nebo, which offers spectacular views of the Holy Land and where it is believed that Moses is buried. We travel via the Kings Highway to Karak, where we visit the 12th century Crusader castle, situated on a hilltop 1,000m above sea level. We continue to Petra for 3 nights stay at the Panorama Hotel. Friday – A full day visit to Petra – ‘the rose city’. As we travel through the Siq, the first and greatest monument of Petra, the Treasury, comes into view. Continuing through this majestic and ancient site, we’ll see monumental tombs, palaces, temples and dramatically shaped rocks in a thousand shades of pink and red. Saturday – A morning visit to Little Petra,

which is hidden away in the centre of a mountain. This evening, there is an optional excursion to Petra by Night, to enjoy the site with a completely different atmosphere. Sunday – We drive to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth at 400m below sea level. Spend the day sunbathing, swimming and relaxing. Enjoy the feeling of weightlessness and discover that it is impossible to sink! We spend the night in our hotel on the Dead Sea, the Dead Sea Spa Hotel. Monday – Another day to relax and enjoy the Dead Sea. Tuesday – We transfer to Amman for our 1115 return flight to Heathrow. Note: flights and itinerary may be amended slightly due to local conditions.Please note that clients who are unable to walk reasonable distances will be limited in their enjoyment of this holiday. Flight times are subject to change by the airline. Hotels may be substituted for an alternative of similar quality. Passports are required for this tour. Your Holiday Includes • Door to door service • Our own courier service • 8 nights half board • Return flights to Amman with Royal Jordanian Airlines • Airport taxes and security charges • Fully escorted throughout • Visits to Amman, Jerash, Madaba, Mount Nebo, Karak Castle, Petra and Little Petra • Free time at the Dead Sea • Optional excursions to Petra by Night and Wadi Rum

Highlights of Madeira Beautiful Madeira lies 400 miles off the coast of North Africa and boasts a rugged, natural beauty with flower-strewn countryside thriving in the sub-tropical climate. Often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Atlantic’ or the ‘Floating Garden’ this colourful island is the perfect location for a springtime break. Tour Itinerary Monday – To Birmingham airport to board our flight to Madeira, where we will be met and transferred to the hotel, with time to settle in and relax. Tuesday – Free to relax and enjoy your new surroundings. The lively capital, Funchal, overlooks a wide bay and in the bustling daily market, flower sellers still dress in national costume. Wednesday – An excursion to the west of the island today, including Camara De Lobos, a picturesque fishing village, Cabo Girao with its high cliffs and Encumenda where on a clear day you can see both sides of the island. We make a stop for lunch at Porto Moniz and our return takes us by way of Paul do Serra, the only flat part of the island and Ponta do Sol. Thursday – A free day to relax and explore. Friday – We take in the highlights of the east side of the island today. Our tour includes stunning Pico do Areeiro, Ribeiro Frio, a natural park surrounded by mountains and we make a stop for lunch in characterful Santana. We return to Funchal via the charming village of Porto da Cruz. Saturday – A half day excursion to Palheiro, an estate which enjoys a beautiful hillside location with stunning views of the ocean and the city of Funchal. Renowned for its incredible gardens, the estate attracts lovers of all things botanic. Sunday – Another free day at leisure in this delightful resort. Monday – We leave our hotel mid-morning and transfer to the airport for our flight back to Birmingham, where our feeder will be waiting.

Note: flights and itinerary may be amended slightly due to local conditions. Hotel Pestana Village #### Funchal

The Pestana Village is one of the most traditional and typical hotels in Madeira, in a classical style where the traditional materials of the archipelago predominate, such as wrought iron and ceramic tiles. Bedrooms are en suite with satellite TV, ceiling fan, hairdryer, radio, kitchenette and balcony. Facilities include restaurants, bars, award winning tropical gardens and two swimming pools. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality generally level. Hotel has level entrance and there are occasional steps. There is a lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 7 nights half board • Return flights from Birmingham with Thomson Airways (3 hrs 40 mins) • Airport transfers • All airport taxes and security charges • Excursions to West Madeira and East Madeira • Admission to Palheiro Botanic Gardens • Local guides for all excursions • 2 lunches • Entertainment on some evenings • Our own courier service

8 Day Tour 9 Day Tour Mon 12 – Tue 20 Nov 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

£1698 £312 £145

Tour departs by 10.30am approx. Returns by 5.30am approx. Not included: All lunches, gratuities and optional excursions

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Mon 4 – Mon 11 Mar 2013 £938 Single room £165 Holiday insurance £41 Partial sea view rooms are available at a supplement, please ask for details.

Tour departs by 10.30am approx. Returns by 9.30pm approx. Not included: 6 lunches

39


Air Holidays Marrakech

© Flickr - mattk1979

NEW TOUR

El Andalous Hotel #### Marrakech

Magical Marrakech You go back in time once you arrive in Marrakech. You can easily imagine the caravanners loading their camels with food, tools and handiwork as you wander through the picturesque alleys of the old town. The souks contain everything that a traveller could want: colour, atmosphere and smells, welcoming and smiling faces. A great winter sun destination. Tour Itinerary Sunday – We travel to Gatwick to board our flight. On arrival in Marrakech, we are met by a local coach for the short transfer to our hotel. Monday – Marrakech is full of magnificent architecture offset by the stunning backdrop of the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains. The variety of colours, fragrance, spices and the bustle of everyday life form an exotic ambience. Today we take in the highlights of Marrakech with a guided tour ‘Marrakech that was’ which takes in the old medina area with a visit to Ben Yousussef Medrassa, a college that was founded during the 14th century and contains many ornate carvings,

then we travel to the 12th century Kubba el Baroudyine, known for its contribution to history and architecture. The remainder of your day is at leisure. Tuesday – After breakfast we take a journey through the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, just an hour’s journey from the centre of Marrakech. It is the best time to visit as the lush green mountains are in sharp contrast with the snow-capped peaks and rust coloured soils and the valleys are filled with, quince, and olive, prune, walnut and almond trees. We make our way to the weekly Berber market, including a stop to visit the inside of a Berber home. Lunch will be taken in a local restaurant before we Marrakech

make our way back to our hotel in the afternoon. Wednesday – We take in the highlights of Marrakech’s Majorelle Gardens, a twelveacre botanical garden and artist's landscape garden, designed by the expatriate French artist Jacques Majorelle in the 1920’s and 1930’s. We take a guided tour of the gardens that includes an optional horse drawn carriage ride or ‘Barouche’ as it is known locally. Once again the remainder of your day is at leisure; why not pick up a souvenir or two in the medina. Thursday – A final morning in Marrakech before we transfer to the airport for our return flight to Gatwick. Note: flights and itinerary may be amended slightly due to local conditions.

Located in the heart of Marrakech this distinguished hotel opens onto a landscaped garden, a haven of freshness, scents and colours. Bedrooms are en suite with satellite TV, telephone, climate control, individual safe. Facilities include Restaurants, Gardens, outdoor pool, spa and lounges. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality generally level. Hotel has level entrance and there are occasional steps. There is a lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • Our own courier service • Fully escorted throughout • Return flights to Marrakech (approx 3 hrs) • Airport taxes and security charges • Airport transfers • Guided tour of the old Medina area and gardens of Marrakech • Horse drawn carriage ride • Visit to a Berber market • 1 lunch

© Flickr - Ta7za

5 Day Tour

40

Sun 3 – Thu 7 Mar 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

£798 £125 £32.50

Tour departs by 7.00am approx. Returns by 12.00am approx. Not included: 4 lunches

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Air Holidays Saranta Kolones

NEW TOUR

Mythology and Culture in Cyprus

Cyprotel Laura Beach Hotel #### Paphos

After a successful tour of Northern Cyprus we are pleased to introduce a visit to the southern side of the isle. The Republic of Cyprus lies at the crossroads of three continents, which has produced a rich and colourful heritage that this country now proudly boasts, with many exquisite examples of historic sites still remaining. Tour Itinerary Sunday – Today we travel to Gatwick for our flight to Paphos. We will be met by our guide and travel the short journey to our hotel in Paphos. Monday – A free day to settle in and familiarise yourself with your surroundings, enjoy the facilities of our hotel and the local area. Paphos is well known for its culture and history including many mosaics and numerous churches and is the mythical Nicosia

birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. Tuesday – Our excursion today takes us through the ‘ecological heart’ of Cyprus with a stop for refreshments before reaching the highest point on the island, Mount Olympus. We stop at the breath-taking Kykkos Monastery, visiting the Tomb of Makarios, with lunch served in a restaurant nearby. Returning to our hotel for dinner. Wednesday – Another free day to relax and enjoy our hotels facilities or explore the area. Another highlight of the area not to be missed is the Paphos Castle, a UNESCO World heritage Site, located on the edge of Paphos Harbour and Paphos lighthouse which can be seen from any corner of the city. There is also a vibrant mix of shops and handicrafts and a variety of traditional gifts

can be found at the open air market in the old town region of the city. Thursday – We have a full days excursion, firstly passing through the old city of Nicosia, visiting the Cathedral of St John, passing through the Venetian walls of Famagusta Gate, the Statue of Liberty and continue to the recently restored 19th century quarter. Returning through Lefkara, home of handmade lace and silver. Friday/Saturday – More free time to explore our destination, why not visit the nearby Tombs of the Kings or pick up some souvenirs in the town. Sunday – After our final breakfast we transfer back to Paphos airport for our return flight to Gatwick, then onwards to home. Note: flights and itinerary may be amended slightly due to local conditions.

8 Day Tour Sun 10 – Sun 17 Feb 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

£978 £102 £32.50

Tour departs by To be advised Returns by To be advised Not included: 7 lunches

Situated on the sea front of Paphos, a few kilometres from the city centre in a privileged position close to the finest locations and treasures of the island such as the famous Tombs of the Kings, an Ancient Archaeological Heritage site. Bedrooms are en suite with satellite TV, telephone, hairdryer, air-conditioning, balcony and mini-fridge. Facilities include Restaurants & bars, swimming pools, TV room, beauty salon, hairdresser, spa and complimentary loungers and umbrellas on the beach. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality generally level. Hotel has level entrance and there are occasional steps. There is a lift to all floors. Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 7 nights half board • 1 lunch • Visit to Kykkos Monastery, the Cathedral of St John and Tomb of Makarios • Scenic drive of the ‘ecological heart’ and Nicosia

41


Joining our holidays… You choose – it’s as easy as A-B-C!

A B C

– ‘FREE DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE’ – Be collected from and returned to your own home. This service is free of charge from anywhere inside the red line on the map below! Just pack your suitcase and wait for the doorbell to ring!

– ‘PARK & RIDE’ – Drive to our coach depot here and leave your car in our secure car park – for only £3 per car per day. In return, we will reduce the cost of your holiday by £20 per person. – ‘DROP OFF AND COLLECT’ – You might prefer to be dropped off and collected by friends or family from either our coach depot here, or for air and cruise holidays, at the departure terminal. If so, we will once again reduce the cost of your holiday by £20 per person.

CANNOCK LICHFIELD

M6 TOLL

LEICESTER

M54

TAMWORTH

M42

WALSALL SUTTON COLDFIELD M6

WOLVERHAMPTON

HINKLEY M69 NUNEATON

DUDLEY M5

M1

M6 LUTTERWORTH

BIRMINGHAM

STOURBRIDGE

SOLIHULL

COVENTRY

KIDDERMINSTER

RUGBY

M42 KENILWORTH

STOURPORTON-SEVERN

M45

BROMSGROVE REDDITCH

M5

WARWICK HENLEYIN-ARDEN

DROITWICH

ROYAL LEAMINGTON SPA DAVENTRY M1 M40

ALCESTER STRATFORDUPON-AVON

WORCESTER

MALVERN EVESHAM SHIPSTONON-STOUR

BROADWAY

BANBURY

M50 MORETON-IN-MARSH TEWKESBURY STOW-ONTHE-WOLD

CHIPPING NORTON

CHELTENHAM

GLOUCESTER M40 M5

BURFORD WITNEY

OXFORD

PLEASE REMEMBER • All door to door services are provided by our own car and mini-coaches, or reputable hired in taxis. • You will be required to share your door to door vehicle with other passengers. • Our Park & Ride car park is secure and well lit, but of course all cars are parked at the owners risk. • For door to door services from outside the red line on the map – just call us for a price! 42

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk


Booking Your Holiday Enquiries, information and advice is readily available. Callers are

Holiday Travel Insurance –

welcome at our offices at Liveridge Hill (on the Birmingham Road, A3400, just north of Henley), where there is ample parking. Alternatively, telephone on 01564 797000 (option 0). You will find our cheerful staff happy to help.

Our popular insurance cover is again recommended and is tailored to suit the needs of our passengers. You will find the costs detailed in the ‘Additional Information’ section of each holiday. Please note that we do require all passengers to be Our friendly sales team (L-R): insured. Laura, Janet, Alison, Nolwenn, Sarah & Belinda. Our travel insurance is extensive and straightforward – there are no age restrictions and no automatic health screening – this applies to both UK and overseas coach holidays. For passengers opting for Johnsons holiday insurance, full details of inclusions, exclusions, excesses, excess waiver and claims procedure can be found in the insurance section on page 4 of the booking form in the centre of this brochure. A certificate showing full details of the policy, inclusions, exclusions and claims procedure is issued when booking. Should the need arise to make a claim, contact us immediately by telephone and then in writing and we will do the rest.

One of our couriers Karen and one of our drivers Simon.

Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 9.00am – 5.30pm, Sat 9.00am – 1pm Provisional booking – A simple telephone call is all that is needed. We can hold places for you without obligation for 7 days. You can book directly with our Travel Office or through an appointed Travel Agent. Confirming a booking – We ask you to complete and sign a booking form. A deposit of £75 per person (£250 for air and cruise holidays) is required for all Coach Holidays. Upon receipt of your booking form we will send you a confirmation/invoice.

Paying the balance – The balance is payable 6 WEEKS PRIOR TO THE DATE OF DEPARTURE. The amount due and the date by which it is payable is clearly shown on your confirmation/invoice. Please note that REMINDERS ARE NOT SENT.

Methods of payment – Payment can be made by cash, cheque, Visa, Mastercard and Switch. Please note that there is a 2% charge for payments made by credit card.

Your holiday travel pack – 7-10 days prior to your holiday you will receive your travel pack which will contain luggage labels, your home pick-up time, hotel addresses and telephone numbers and any extra information regarding your holiday.

C C C C C C

R 11 10 9 8 7 6 Toilet & Washroom 5 D C 4 D C 3 D C 2 D C 1

B B B B B B B B B B B B

A A A A A A A A A A A A

DRIVER

COURIER

D D D D D

C C C C C

R 11 10 9 8 7 Toilet & Washroom 6 D C 5 D C 4 D C 3 D C 2 D C 1

B B B B B B B B B B B B

DRIVER

COURIER

A A A A A A A A A A A A

D D D D D D

C C C C C C

R 12 11 10 9 8 7 Toilet & Washroom 6 D C 5 D C 4 D C 3 D C 2 D C 1

B B B B B B B B B B B B B

DRIVER

COURIER

our 44 seat ‘Magiq’

our 44 seat ‘Futura’

our 49 seat ‘Futura’

CLUB CLASS

CLUB CLASS

CLUB CLASS

Please note that you are required by law to wear your seat belt at all times when the vehicle is in motion.

Porterage – We include this in the price of almost all our coach holidays. Itineraries – All itineraries featured in this brochure are subject to change due to local conditions.

Please note that prices quoted in this brochure are per person.

No Surcharge Guarantee – This applies to every coach holiday in this brochure. Relax in the knowledge that the price of your coach holiday will not change.

Our friendly reservations staff will be pleased to help you.

D D D D D D

Passports – For all European coach tours you will require a valid passport.

A A A A A A A A A A A A A

Seat Reservations & ‘Club Class’ Coach Travel For your comfort and relaxation almost ALL departures are operated by our own high specification ‘Club Class’ coaches.

CLUB CLASS

Each has extra passenger legroom, comfortable reclining seats, plus toilet and hot drinks facilities as well as great sightseeing from the high passenger deck. Once booked, your seat number is reserved for the whole holiday (except on coach/air holidays – please see section 17 of our Trading Charter).

Our Resort & Hotel Mobility Grading To help you choose the most suitable holiday for you we have provided a guideline grade in terms of lifts, steps, stairs, hills and general accessibility. The grades range from 1 to 5 and the higher the score the easier the holiday is for mobility.

NO SMOKING on holiday coaches However, frequent breaks are made on all journeys.

‘Travel with Johnsons – Travel with Friends’ Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

43


J

Enjoy the views – treasure the memories…

1

S

HNSON O 909-2009

100 years Tr a

vel

with Frie

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s

Just call our friendly team For all bookings plus friendly help and advice, please telephone:

01564 797000 (Option 0) or call in to our offices at LIVERIDGE HOUSE, LIVERIDGE HILL, HENLEY-IN-ARDEN, WARWICKSHIRE B95 5QS

Air & Cruise Holidays, Day Excursions, Shows and Concerts, Coach Hire for All Occasions and ‘Tailor-made’ Holidays for Groups and Clubs

Follow us on

Visit our website: www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk All our holidays, shows and excursions can now be booked online


Warner Leisure Hotel Breaks On a Warner Leisure break you’ll understand what it means to be spoilt for choice. With a great variety of almost everything – great accommodation, great food, great things to do and of course, great festive themed entertainment each night.

NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS NEW Itinerary

CLUB CLASS

Warner Turkey & Tinsel Bembridge Warner Bembridge Coast Hotel Coast Hotel #### Isle of Wight

Warner Dickensian Christmas Thoresby Hall

Bembridge Coast Hotel sits on the secluded eastern shore of the Isle of Wight just metres from the lapping, glistening Solent. With its 23 acres of grounds, its elegantly landscaped gardens and its marvellous sea views, Bembridge Coast is the ideal place from which to explore the island that occupying Romans called ‘Vectis’.

Elegant Thoresby Hall was built in the 19th century as home to the Manvers family. With its turrets, balustrades, gabled towers and finely wrought iron gates, it is an ornate example of Victoriana and a reminder of the exuberance of 19th Warner Thoresby Hall century architecture. Begin #### Nottinghamshire your Christmas celebrations with an enjoyable stay at this attractive and historic hotel; there has been a mansion house on the site since the This elegant 19th century house has 16th century.

Each night of your stay features one of the seasonal days, starting with ‘Christmas’ and ending with a fantastic ‘New Year’s Eve’ Party. You will be welcomed with a hot toddy and a mince pie that will set the scene for tasty festive menus, fabulous cabaret and even carol singing with Father Christmas! During your stay a whole host of activities will be available during the daytime, along with first class evening entertainment. Included excursion If you feel like a change of scenery, we have included a scenic tour of the Isle of Wight.

Enjoying an idyllic position near Bembridge and offering an excellent range of all the recreational facilities and entertainment. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, tea/coffee making facilities, hair dryer and radio. Facilities include lounge, bars, restaurant and extensive entertainment facilities. Mobility Grade: 4 – Grounds fairly flat. Hotel has a lift. There is some walking between the accommodation and main hotel facilities. Please note: single rooms are in standard chalets, not in the hotel. These are of a 3-star standard, tastefully decorated with en suite, TV and tea and coffee making facilities. Twin and double rooms are in the hotel complex and are 4-star.

Your Tour Includes

Included excursion If you’d like to join us on a day out, we include a visit to nearby Chatsworth House, which will be dressed beautifully for Christmas, with this year’s theme being Villains & Dames.

• Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Admission to Chatsworth House which is ‘Dressed for Christmas’ • Extensive facilities and daytime leisure activities • High quality and varied entertainment • Our own courier service

Your Tour Includes • Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Scenic tour of the Isle of Wight • Extensive daytime leisure activities and facilities • High quality entertainment each evening • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour

5 Day Tour Mon 3 – Fri 7 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

many original Victorian features and is surrounded by ancient Sherwood Forest. Bedrooms are en-suite with TV, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities, trouser press and hair dryer. Facilities include the Pierrepont Restaurant, bar, lounge, spa facilities, sauna and steam room. Mobility Grade: 5 – Locality – grounds all level. Hotel – lift to all areas.

What better way to bring the stories of yesteryear to life than to hear first hand tales of the past? The Thoresby Players is a term which dates back to medieval times, and the Players will be performing several ‘vignettes’ – entertaining and informative plays – around the house which bring to life Thoresby’s past. In addition, there is a wide range of daytime activities and first class evening entertainment for you to enjoy.

£394 £NIL £19.50

Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Returns by 4.30pm approx. Not included: All lunches

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Mon 10 – Fri 14 Dec 2012 Single room Holiday insurance

£448 £NIL £19.50

Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Returns by 4.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches

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Themed Breaks Powerscourt House

The Good Old Days

CLUB CLASS NEW TOUR

CLUB CLASS

The Good Old Days Shamrocks and Saints Bray and its surroundings offer some amazing scenery with mountains peaks and natural wilderness of the Wicklow National Park leading down to a spectacular coastline. A delightful location in which to celebrate traditional Irish St. Patrick’s festivities. make our way back to Dublin for our return sailing to Holyhead, enjoying breakfast on board. Then make the final leg of our journey back home.

The Esplanade Hotel ### Bray, Ireland

Situated on the Bray seafront with fantastic sea views and beautiful promenade. You can enjoy every modern facility in this beautiful historic hotel. Bedrooms are en suite with satellite TV, hairdryer, alarm and tea and coffee making facilities. Facilities include restaurant, cocktail bar and outstanding views. Mobility Grade: 4 – The hotel is on a level and has a lift to all floors.

Leeds Victorian Quarter

Sunday – We return home via the beautiful scenery of the Peak District, making a stop for an included traditional Sunday lunch.

Marriott Leeds #### West Yorkshire

A modern, elegant, 4 star hotel in the heart of the city centre, just a short walk from many of the city’s attractions. Bedrooms are en suite with TV, telephone, iron/ironing board, trouser press, tea/coffee making facilities and hair dryer. Facilities include two restaurants and bars, leisure centre with indoor pool, spa bath and sauna. Mobility Grade: 5 – Locality is level. Hotel has ramp alternatives to all steps and there is a lift to all floors.

Your Tour Includes

Your Tour Includes

• Door to door service • 4 nights half board • Return ferry, Holyhead/Dublin • Admission to Powerscourt House and Gardens • Visit to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Glendalough and County Kildare • Guided tour of the Irish National Stud • Our own courier service

• Door to door service • 2 nights half board • Sunday lunch • Ticket to matinee Performance of the Good Old Days • Free time to explore Leeds • Visits to the National Memorial Arboretum and the Peak District • Sunday lunch • Our own courier service

5 Day Tour Fri 15 – Tue 19 Mar 2013 Single room Holiday insurance

Tour Itinerary Friday – We travel north, where we make a stop at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, where there is time to explore and to have lunch. We continue to Leeds, with time to settle in and enjoy our hotel’s facilities. Saturday – This morning is free to explore the regenerated and much underrated city of Leeds. Perhaps visit nearby Royal Armouries Museum, which is home to the UK’s collection of arms and armour or browse the wide variety of high street and individual shops in the Victoria Quarter. We meet back at the hotel before departing for the matinee performance of ‘The Good Old Days’, joining in with the banter and all the old songs. Many people have fond memories of ‘The Good Old Days’ and the theatre used for the series, the worldfamous ‘City Varieties Music Hall’.

© Flickr – GuitarStrummer56

Tour Itinerary Friday – We travel through North Wales to Holyhead for our afternoon sailing to Dublin, then on to our hotel in Bray where we are met with a quenching welcome drink. Saturday – Today we explore the scenic beauty of the Wicklow Mountains and make a stop at Powerscourt House and Gardens, an example of one of the world’s finest gardens. We then head to Glendalough, an ancient monastic site, then travel via the beautiful wooded Vale of Clara to Avoca, the setting of the popular BBC series ‘Ballykissangel’. Sunday – After a hearty breakfast we head to Dublin to witness the world famous St. Patrick’s Day Parade. You will be entertained by an awesome display of creative talents, as international and Irish bands join performers, dancers and street theatre companies. We return to our hotel in the early evening, for dinner followed by entertainment. Monday – A full day excursion to County Kildare, synonymous with Irish horseracing. Our first stop is the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens, where we take a guided tour through the paddocks and yard and free time to explore the museum. We return to our hotel in the early evening with time to relax before we celebrate St Patrick’s with a traditional Irish dinner and entertainment. Tuesday – It’s time to return home! We

The Leeds City Varieties music hall is the best preserved music hall in the country and is the venue for the rousing show ‘The Good Old Days’. Our centrally based, comfortable hotel is a great base for this nostalgic short break, which includes visits to the National Memorial Arboretum and the Peak District, along with Sunday lunch!

3 Day Tour £448 £61 £32.50

Tour departs by 8.00am approx. Returns by 5.00pm approx. Not included: All lunches.

Reservations 01564 797000 (option 0)

Fri 15 – Sun 17 Mar 2013 Single supplement Holiday insurance

£259 £40 £14.50

Tour departs by 10.00am approx. Returns by 5.00pm approx. Not included: 2 lunches

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