Day Excursions Summer 2013

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

Excursions

CHOOS E FROM

13

Great Days Out Throughout the Summer

DIFFER ENT THEME S

April-October WITH

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LOCAL BOARD ING POINT S

2013 Travel with Travel with Friends!


Day Excursions 2013

Great Days Out – Almost Every Day! nce again we have put together a varied programme of day trips throughout the spring and summer. With 13 different themes there is something to tempt every interest from museums and musical events to gardens and historic houses. Why not let one of our excursions brighten up your day?!

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CHOOSE FROM 13 DIFFERENT THEMES THE GOLD COLLECTION SPECIAL EVENTS HISTORIC HOUSES & CASTLES AIRSHOWS MUSEUMS & THE ARTS ROYAL RESIDENCES TOWN & CITY TOURS SCENIC COUNTRYSIDE TOURS DAYS AT THE SEASIDE BOATS & CRUISING STEAM RAILWAYS NOSTALGIA GARDENS, PARKS & FLOWER SHOWS SHOPPING VISITS

PAGE 6 8 14 19 21 25 27 29 32 35 37 40 45

TO 7 13 18 20 24 26 28 31 34 36 39 44 46

64 NEW DESTINATIONS TO VISIT ALL EXCURSIONS WITH ‘CLUB CLASS’ COACHES RESERVED SEATING ON ALL EXCURSIONS 33 LOCAL BOARDING POINTS ON ALL EXCURSIONS Travel Office Opening Hours Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.30pm • Saturday: 9.00am-1.00pm

Tel: 01564 797000 (Option 0)

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LIVERIDGE HOUSE, LIVERIDGE HILL, HENLEY-IN-ARDEN, WARWICKSHIRE B95 5QS (on the Birmingham Road, A3400, just north of Henley)

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Our Seemore Club members receive £2 off every Day Excursion or ‘Showtime’ trip. And £10 off every holiday – plus many other benefits! See more and Save more! To join just give us a call.

Book online and save

£1.00 per person

Front cover tours include: • Brighton Pavilion (© Flickr – Neilhooting) • Hampton Court Flower Show (© 2013 The Press Association)

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TRAVEL WITH JOHNSONS – TRAVEL WITH FRIENDS


Your Summer 2013 Excursion Planner Date

Destination

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APRIL

Tuesday 2 Wednesday 3 Thursday 4 Monday 8 Tuesday 9 Thursday 11 Tuesday 16 Friday 19 Saturday 20 Monday 22 Tuesday 23 Wednesday 24 Thursday 25 Friday 26 Saturday 27 Tuesday 30

Highclere Castle & Egyptian Exhibition 16 Cheshire Oaks 45 Creative Stitches NEW 9 and Hobbeycrafts Enigma – The Codebreakers’ Station with Guided Tour 22 Cotswolds with a Blue Badge Guide 29 Greenwich and The Cutty Sark 22 Tyntesfield (NT) 18 Cirencester & The Cotswolds SPECIAL 29 Portobello Market 46 NEW 24 The World of Glass NEW 12 Secret Salisbury Cathedral Westfield, Stratford City London NEW 46 National Memorial Arboretum & Lichfield 23 Batsford Arboretum – Japanese NEW 40 Flowering Cherry Spectacular NEW 37 Wartime in The Cotswolds Yorkshire Dales Scenic Guided Tour 31

Monday 6 Tuesday 7 Wednesday 8 Wednesday 8 Thursday 9 Friday 10 Saturday 11 Sunday 12 Monday 13 Tuesday 14 Wednesday 15 Thursday 16 Friday 17 Saturday 18

The Vyne (NT) NEW Grimsthorpe Castle Scenic Snowdonia & Portmeirion York with ‘Open Top’ Bus Tour Sunday Lunch with Jazz & Barnsdale Gardens NEW Severn Valley Railway Morgan Motor Museum Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum & Village (NT) NEW Lune Aqueduct Experience Chartwell (NT) Scenic Cotswolds with Afternoon Tea NEW Windsor Malvern Spring Gardening Show Tower of London Eltham Palace (EH) with Guided Tour Cardiff – Pit to Port Tour Woburn Abbey Garden NEW with Guided Tour Powis Castle (NT) Liverpool & River Trip

Club Class

Sunday 19 Monday 20 Tuesday 21 Wednesday 22 Thursday 23 Thursday 23 Friday 24 Saturday 25 Sunday 26 Monday 27 Tuesday 28 Wednesday 29 Thursday 30 Friday 31

43 15 31 28 12 39 23 17 36 14 31 28 41 26 15 29 44 17 27

Destination

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NEW Bowood House and Gardens Weymouth Peak Railway & Scenic Derbyshire Portsmouth, Spinnaker & NEW Hampshire Tea Chelsea Flower Show SPECIAL Clarks Village at Street Chatsworth House Harrogate NEW Warwick Castle Weston-super-Mare Ludlow & Llanfair Light Railway Hatfield House Tatton Park Gardens with Tour NEW Exmoor – Where The Moors Meet The Sea

40 34 38 27 40 45 15 27 18 34 38 16 43 29

JUNE

Saturday 1 Sunday 2 Monday 3

M AY

Wednesday 1 Thursday 2 Friday 3 Saturday 4 Sunday 5

Date

Tuesday 4 Wednesday 5 Thursday 6 Friday 7 Saturday 8 Saturday 8 Sunday 9 Monday 10 Tuesday 11 Tuesday 11 Wednesday 12 Thursday 13 Friday 14 Saturday 15 Sunday 16 Monday 17 Tuesday 18 Tuesday 18 Wednesday 19 Thursday 20 Thursday 20 Friday 21 Saturday 22 Sunday 23 Monday 24

NEW 14 Bolsover Castle (EH) Wentworth Castle Gardens with NEW 13 Tea Dance Biddulph Grange Garden (NT) & The Peak District 40 Hampton Court Palace with Guided Tour & Lunch 7 Belton House (NT) 14 Newark Antique Fair 46 Brecon Canal Cruise 35 Bournemouth 32 Murder Mystery Evening on The Severn Valley Railway 38 RAF Cosford Air Show 19 Belvoir Castle with Guided Tour NEW 14 Haworth and Keighley & NEW 37 Worth Railway NEW 46 Gunwharf Quays Kensington Palace 25 NEW 42 Mottisfont Abbey (NT) Llangollen Horse Drawn Boat Trip 35 Scarborough 33 NEW 16 Harewood House NEW 7 Doddington Hall and Gardens Hampton Court Palace 25 Rockingham Castle & Cream Tea 18 Portmeirion & Ffestiniog Railway 38 Royal Ascot Ladies’ Day Silver Option 11 Royal Ascot Ladies’ Day – ‘Go for Gold’ 7 NEW 9 Ely Cathedral Flower Festival Well Dressing in Derbyshire 13 Weston-super-Mare 34 Well Dressing in Derbyshire 13

LUXURY ‘CLUB CLASS’ COACHES ON ALL EXCURSIONS

Club Class

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Your Summer 2013 Excursion Planner Date

Destination

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JUNE continued Tuesday 25 Tuesday 25 Wednesday 26 Friday 28 Saturday 29 Sunday 30

Vale of Rheidol Railway Aberystwyth Gregynog Gardens & The Dingle (RHS) Wye Valley Cruise Southwold Llandudno Chelsworth Open Gardens Day

J U LY

Monday 1 Tuesday 2 Tuesday 2 Wednesday 3 Thursday 4 Friday 5 Saturday 6 Sunday 7 Monday 8 Tuesday 9 Wednesday 10

Wednesday 10 Thursday 11 Friday 12 Saturday 13 Saturday 13 Sunday 14 Monday 15 Tuesday 16 Tuesday 16 Wednesday 17 Thursday 18 Friday 19 Saturday 20 Sunday 21 Monday 22 Tuesday 23 Wednesday 24 Thursday 25 Friday 26 Saturday 27 Saturday 27 Sunday 28 Monday 29

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Date

Destination

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Tuesday 30 Wednesday 31

Chesterfield Medieval Market SPECIAL 9 NEW 42 Sandringham Flower Show

NEW 39

AUGUST

NEW 41

36 33 33 40

Oxford To Abingdon Cruise 36 Althorp House with Afternoon Tea 6 Norfolk Lavender Fields 30 NEW 34 Swanage Cliveden (NT) 41 Lake District & Ullswater Cruise 30 RAF Waddington International Airshow 20 NEW 11 Melton Mowbray Country Fair Kew Palace & Royal Botanic Gardens 26 Manchester Ship Canal Cruise 36 Harbour Cruise & Avon Valley Railway Steam Train NEW 37 with Cream Tea Newport RSPB Wetlands NEW 42 Nature Reserve Hampton Court International Flower Show 41 NEW 6 Coronation Festival NEW 20 Wales National Air Show NEW 6 Coronation Festival NEW 6 Coronation Festival Highclere Castle & Egyptian Exhibition 16 Llangollen ‘Thomas Telford’ Canal Cruise 35 Derbyshire and the Peak District NEW 29 Sandringham House 26 Southport 33 Windsor Castle 26 RAF Fairford International Air Tattoo 20 Llangollen Steam Railway 38 Henley-on-Thames River Cruise 35 The Royal Welsh Show 12 Whitby 34 Tatton Park Flower Show 43 ‘Last of The Summer Wine’ Country with Guided Minibus Tour 30 Seaside & Steam in Somerset 39 NEW 22 Doctor Who Experience Harry Potter – Warner Brothers Studio Tour 10 Eastbourne 32

Thursday 1 Friday 2 Saturday 3 Monday 5 Tuesday 6 Wednesday 7 Thursday 8 Friday 9 Saturday 10 Sunday 11 Monday 12 Tuesday 13 Wednesday 14 Thursday 15 Friday 16 Saturday 17 Sunday 18 Monday 19 Tuesday 20 Wednesday 21 Thursday 22 Friday 23 Saturday 24 Sunday 25 Monday 26 Tuesday 27 Wednesday 28 Thursday 29 Friday 30 Saturday 31

Hardwick Hall (NT) 15 London Eye with Afternoon Tea & Thames Cruise 27 Tenby 34 Seaside & Steam in Dorset (Swanage) 39 The Royal Mews with Covent Garden 26 Kew Gardens 41 NEW 8 Bakewell Show Shrewsbury Flower Show 43 Scarecrow Festival & The Yorkshire Dales 31 Snowdon Mountain Railway 39 Buckingham Palace with Lunch & Thames Cruise 25 Leeds Castle 17 Llangollen ‘Thomas Telford’ Canal Cruise 35 Harry Potter Studio Tour 10 NEW 19 Eastbourne Airshow Buckingham Palace with Lunch & Thames Cruise 25 Chester with Canal Cruise 27 NEW 11 Olympic Legacy Tour NEW 25 Houses of Parliament Cruising in the Chilterns 35 Buckingham Palace with Lunch & Thames Cruise 25 NEW 18 Waddesdon Manor (NT) NEW 20 Wings and Wheels Whitby 34 Weston-super-Mare 34 Rockingham Castle NEW 7 Candlelight supper tour Buckingham Palace with Lunch & Thames Cruise 25 Great Dorset Steam Fair 9 River Dee Cruise Chester 36 Bournemouth Air Show 19

GREAT DAYS OUT… FROM APRIL TO OCTOBER!


Date

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SEPTEMBER

Saturday 28 Sunday 29 Monday 30

NEW 14 Cardiff Castle Cromer 32 Buckingham Palace with Lunch & Thames Cruise 25 Frogmore House and NEW 25 Savill Garden Aberystwyth 32 St Pauls Cathedral with Guided Tour 12 Abergavenny & Brecon Mountain Railway 37 Imperial War Museums: Duxford Air Show 19 Scenic Guided Tour of The Gower NEW 31 Manchester Ship Canal Cruise 36 Hampton Court Palace 25 Bucklers Hard Maritime Musuem NEW 21 NEW 25 Houses of Parliament Highclere Castle & Egyptian Exhibition 16 Rutland – England’s ‘Little County’ NEW 30 Ludlow Food & Drink Festival 10 NEW 8 Cheese & Pickle Festival (NT) Longleat House & Safari Park 17 Blenheim Palace with Guided Tour & Lunch 6 Kelmarsh Hall and Gardens with Guided Tour 16 Steaming through the Cotswolds NEW 37 Banqueting House with Afternoon Tea 6 Brighton 32 National Memorial Arboretum & Lichfield 23 Knebworth House and Gardens NEW 17 NEW 11 Olympic Legacy Tour Sidmouth 33 Dunham Massey (NT) 15 Bury Transport Museum & NEW 21 East Lancashire Railway Herefordshire Black & White Villages with Blue Badge Guided Tour 30 Malvern Autumn Gardening Show 42 Mystery Sunday Lunch 11 NEW 24 The Roman Baths

Tuesday 1 Wednesday 2 Thursday 3 Friday 4 Saturday 5 Sunday 6 Monday 7 Tuesday 8

SS Great Britain Shugborough Estate (NT) with Cream Tea Sheffield Park (NT) & Bluebell Railway Salisbury & Stonehenge (EH) SPECIAL London Museums NEW Erddig Apple Festival SPECIAL Shrewsbury Greenwich and The Cutty Sark

Sunday 1 Monday 2 Tuesday 3 Wednesday 4 Wednesday 4 Thursday 5 Friday 6 Saturday 7 Sunday 8 Monday 9 Tuesday 10 Tuesday 10 Wednesday 11 Thursday 12 Thursday 12 Friday 13 Saturday 14 Sunday 15 Monday 16 Tuesday 17 Wednesday 18 Thursday 19 Friday 20 Saturday 21 Sunday 22 Monday 23 Tuesday 24 Wednesday 25 Thursday 26 Friday 27

OCTOBER

24 18 42 28 23 10 28 22

Date Wednesday 9 Wednesday 9 Thursday 10 Friday 11 Saturday 12 Sunday 13 Monday 14 Tuesday 15 Tuesday 15 Wednesday 16 Wednesday 16 Thursday 17 Friday 18 Saturday 19 Sunday 20 Monday 21 Tuesday 22 Wednesday 23 Thursday 24 Friday 25 Saturday 26 Saturday 26 Sunday 27 Monday 28 Tuesday 29 Wednesday 30 Thursday 31

Destination

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NEW 46 Merry Hill Shopping Centre Black Country Living Museum 21 Blackpool Illuminations with Guide 8 NEW 44 Westonbirt Arbouretum The Knitting & Stitching Show 10 Camden Market 45 Brooklands Museum & Concorde Experience 21 Bakewell Market & Peak District 45 Wicksteed Park ‘Hooray for Hollywood’ with Lunch 13 Wisley (RHS) Garden 44 Port Sunlight Museum & NEW 23 Village Tour Westminster Abbey with Guided Tour 13 The Light and Dark Tour on NEW 28 the Thames Cable Car NEW 45 Bristol Cabot Circus Imperial War Museum 22 NEW 8 BBC Media City Salford Gloucester & Gloucester Quays SPECIAL 45 Enigma – The Codebreakers’ Station with Guided Tour 22 NEW 43 Stourhead Autumn Colours NEW 21 American Museum Ironbridge Gorge Museums 23 NEW 46 Telford Shopping Centre Blackpool Illuminations with Guide 8 West Midlands Safari & Leisure Park 44 NEW 24 Ripleys “Believe it or not” NEW 22 Great Western Railway Kelmscott Manor with Guided Tour & Lunch 16

Theme Colour Key

The Gold Collection Special Events Historic Houses & Castles Airshows Museums & the Arts Royal Residences Town & City Tours Scenic Countryside Tours Days at the Seaside Boats & Cruising Steam Railways Nostalgia Gardens, Parks & Flower Shows Shopping Visits

ALL PRICES INCLUDE ADMISSION CHARGES

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THE GOLD COLLECTION EXCURSION

ALTHORP HOUSE WITH AFTERNOON TEA, Northamptonshire Tuesday 2 July Home to nineteen generations of the Spencer family for over five centuries, the magnificent estate and stunning house is bursting with history, heritage and art. The magnificent and glamorous interiors house one of Europe’s finest collections of furniture, pictures and ceramics and there is the opportunity to view ‘Diana: A Celebration’, an exhibition dedicated to the memory of Princess Diana. We include afternoon tea, which is served on Spencer family china in the opulent State Dining Room, modelled on the ballroom at Buckingham Palace. Includes admission, afternoon tea and courier service.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 10.00am Arrive destination: 11.15am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 5.45pm Adult £60.50 Concession £59.50 Child £55.50

© www.althorp.com © Historic Royal Palaces

BANQUETING HOUSE WITH CHAMPAGNE AFTERNOON TEA IN LONDON Thursday 19 September The stunning Banqueting House is the only remaining part of Whitehall Palace, once the official sovereigns’ residence and Europe’s largest palace. Visitors can marvel at nine Rubens paintings adorning the ceiling, commissioned by Charles I in 1649 to celebrate the glorification of his father James I. Admire the architecture, purposed to look like a piece of ancient Rome and view Charles I’s scaffold, the place where a king was killed. In the afternoon we enjoy a short guided tour of London before we head to one of London’s most famous hotels, Grosvenor House, for a heavenly afternoon tea including a glass of champagne! Includes admission, guided tour, afternoon tea & courier service.

BLENHEIM PALACE WITH GUIDED TOUR AND LUNCH, Oxfordshire Monday 16 September On arrival at magnificent Blenheim Palace, we enjoy light refreshments before an interesting guided tour which gives an insight into 300 years of Palace History. We enjoy a delicious lunch in these sumptuous surroundings. The afternoon is free to further explore this magnificent Baroque palace, which has intricate carvings, hand painted ceilings and amazing porcelain collections. The Palace was the birthplace of Winston Churchill and is set in over 2,000 acres of beautiful parkland landscaped by ‘Capability’ Brown. Includes light refreshments on arrival, themed tour of Blenheim Palace, lunch and courier service.

NEW CORONATION FESTIVAL Friday 12 July, Saturday 13 July & Sunday 14 July The Coronation Festival takes place in the Gardens of Buckingham Palace and will celebrate the 60th anniversary of The Queen’s Coronation. This exciting and unique event, hosted by the Royal Warrant Holders Association, will bring together – for the first time on this scale – over 200 companies who hold Royal Warrants of Appointment. Visitors will be able to enjoy the Gardens of Buckingham Palace and experience the very best of all things British. Exhibitors include food & cookery demonstrations, interior design & gardening, as well as the best of modern technology. A truly unique event not to be missed! Includes admission & courier service.

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 8.30pm Adult £62.50 Concession £61.50 Child £61.50

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 5.30pm Adult £71.50 Concession £70.50 Child £64.50

Depart Henley: 7.00am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 8.00pm Adult £69.50 Concession £68.50 Child £67.50

© Flickr – elias_daniel

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YOU CAN ‘PARK AND RIDE’ FOR FREE! – SEE THE REAR COVER


THE GOLD COLLECTION EXCURSION

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 8.00am NEW DODDINGTON HALL AND GARDENS, Arrive destination: Lincolnshire Monday 17 June 10.30am Begun in 1595 by Robert Smythson, one of England’s foremost Depart destination: Elizabethan Architects, Doddington Hall was completed in 1600 and is 4.30pm a fine example of a late Elizabethan Mansion; it is still a lived-in and Return Henley: 6.45pm much loved family home, alive with history and interest. Over 400 Adult £64.50 years of unbroken family occupation has resulted in fascinating Concession £63.50 collections of furniture, weaponry, paintings, ceramics, textiles, Child £60.50 household objects, porcelain and a wealth of amusing stories all to be found in and around Doddington Hall. A guided tour brings the house to life and we enjoy lunch and refreshments through the day. Mobility advice: a virtual tour of the upper floors is available for those that cannot climb stairs. Please mention when booking. Includes guided tour, lunch, morning & afternoon refreshments & courier service.

HAMPTON COURT PALACE WITH GUIDED TOUR & LUNCH, Surrey Tuesday 4 June The magnificent red brick Tudor Palace built by Cardinal Wolsey in 1520 and is involved with 500 years of royal history. Our visit includes a guided tour, taking in Henry VIII’s State Apartments, containing exquisite tapestries, the Chapel Royal with the country’s most resplendent Tudor ceiling and the Tudor Kitchens where you’ll find a roaring log fire, boiling cauldrons and Tudor delicacies on display. The landscaped grounds include the famous Maze. We also include a hot lunch, with free time to explore this beautiful palace. Includes admission, guided tour, hot lunch and courier service. NEW ROCKINGHAM CASTLE CANDLELIGHT SUPPER TOUR, Leicestershire Tuesday 27 August Set on a hill overlooking five counties, Rockingham Castle was built by William the Conqueror and was a royal residence for 450 years. In the 16th century Henry VIII granted it to Edward Watson and for 450 years it has remained a family home. The pre-dominantly Tudor building, within Norman walls, has architecture, furniture and works of art from practically every century including, unusually, a remarkable collection of 20th century pictures. Twelve acres of formal and wild garden command splendid views over the surrounding countryside. Your evening begins with a walk around the gardens with the Head Gardner followed by an informal tour of the castle before a candle light supper in Walkers House (part of the Castle). Includes house & castle tour & 2 course supper (includes a glass of wine) & courier service.

ROYAL ASCOT LADIES’ DAY – ‘GO FOR GOLD’, Berkshire Thursday 20 June One of the great days out in the English social calendar. Enter into the excitement and elegance of Ladies Day at Royal Ascot, a fabulous opportunity to don your finery and mingle amongst the extraordinary hats, providing a backdrop to the electricity of the Race Meeting. A fabulous day out, including champagne breakfast en-route, a 3-course evening meal, General Access tickets and convenient access via the closest coach park. General Access tickets offer excellent viewing facilities to watch the racing and Royal Procession. Includes breakfast, 3-course evening meal, ‘General Access’ Tickets and courier service. Dress code: Gentlemen must wear a jacket, shirt and tie. Many ladies wear hats, although this is not compulsory.

© Claire Birch, Doddington Hall

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 7.30pm Adult £67.50 Concession £66.50 Child £62.50 © Flickr – amandabhslater

Depart Henley: 4.30pm Arrive destination: 6.00pm Depart destination: 9.00pm Return Henley: 11.30pm Adult £63.50 Concession £62.50 Child £61.50

Depart Henley: 7.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 6.30pm Return Henley: 11.00pm Adult £153.50 Concession £152.50 Child £N/A

© Ascot Racecourse

BOOK ON-LINE AT WWW.JOHNSONSCOACHES.CO.UK AND SAVE £1 PER PERSON

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SPECIAL EVENTS EXCURSION

NEW BAKEWELL SHOW, Derbyshire Thursday 8 August Bakewell is one of the oldest shows in the UK with nearly 200 years of history. The first show was held in 1819 as purely agricultural but has grown into a diverse event with something for everyone. As well as the agricultural events other attractions include a craft tent, cookery demonstrations, vintage and classic cars, heavy horse demonstrations and a horticultural show. Don’t miss the Grand Parade, the traditional procession of all the livestock winners into the centre ring to collect their trophies. Includes admission.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 4.00pm Arrive Henley: 6.00pm Adult £42.50 Concession £41.50 Child £39.50

Depart Henley: 9.30am Arrive destination: 12.00pm The BBC’s home in the North of England is one of the Depart destination: most ambitious projects in the BBC’s history. During 5.30pm this informative and interesting 1 1/2 tour you will be Arrive Henley: 8.00pm able to follow in the footsteps of your favourite Adult £41.50 stars as well as gaining a fascinating insight into Concession £40.50 how TV & radio work. There will be free time in the Child £38.50 Lowry Centre, where there is a huge choice of restaurants and shops all undercover, either before or after the tour. Please state your preferred time for the tour when booking. Includes guided tour at 12.30 or 3pm. NEW BBC MEDIA CITY SALFORD, Manchester Monday 21 October

© Flickr – Tama Leaver

BLACKPOOL ILLUMINATIONS WITH GUIDE, Lancashire Sunday 27 October & Thursday 10 October Blackpool is wonderful at any time, but during the Illuminations it is simply out of this world – an electric extravaganza to take your breath away! At 10 kilometres long and using over one million bulbs the Blackpool Illuminations are an awesome spectacle. During the day you can walk the promenade, ascend the famous Tower or visit the Pleasure Beach. As darkness falls, re-join the coach for the highlight of our visit as we drive through the Illuminations with a guide, who will bring them to life. Includes guided tour. NEW CHEESE & PICKLE FESTVAL, Coughton Court (NT), Alcester

Saturday 14 September Enjoy the best that Warwickshire has to offer, with local producers and makers, stalls, tastings, country craft demonstrations and live music. Locally brewed ale and cider from the National Trust property The Fleece Inn at Bretforton will also feature. All set within the beautiful grounds of Coughton Court. Includes admission to the festival and Coughton Court. Reduction for National Trust members.

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Depart Henley: 10.30am Arrive destination: 2.00pm Depart destination: 9.00pm Return Henley: 12.00am Adult £39.50 Concession £38.50 Child £32.50

Depart Henley: 10.30am Arrive destination: 11.15am Depart destination: 3.30pm Return Henley: 4.15pm Adult £23.50 Concession £22.50 Child £21.50

WITH 13 EXCURSION THEMES – THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!


SPECIAL EVENTS EXCURSION

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 9.00am SPECIAL CHESTERFIELD MEDIEVAL Arrive destination: MARKET, Derbyshire Tuesday 30 July 10.45am Chesterfield’s popular local market takes a step back Depart destination: in time every July, as it takes on a medieval theme 4.00pm and offers shopping and entertainment for all the Return Henley: 5.45pm family. Head to the ‘Crooked Spire’ Churchyard to Adult £24.50 find a Medieval Encampment complete with knights, Concession £24.50 ladies, sword fights, skirmishes and talks from a Child £21.50 Master Archer or the spend some time at the Museum and find out about medicine in the Middle Ages. Expect costumed market traders, medieval reenactments and a court jester! Admission is free. © www.visitchesterfield.info

NEW CREATIVE STITCHES & HOBBYCRAFTS, ExCel, London

Thursday 4 April The show will be packed with all the latest supplies, ideas and innovations in the creative crafting world. Enjoy an extensive programme of free workshops, demonstrations and talks to improve your skills. The show will also feature an exhibition of costumes from some of the BBC’s favourite costume dramas such as ‘Pride and Prejudice’, ‘Sense and Sensibility’ and ‘Emma’. A creative day out to remember. Includes admission.

THE GREAT DORSET STEAM FAIR Thursday 29 August The fair is probably the leading event of its type in the world. The show, on a mammoth 500-acre site, recreates English country life as it was in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The extraordinary spectacle includes 200 working steam engines, 100 fairground organs, 50 showmen’s engines, old time steam fun fair, vintage tractors, cars and motorcycles. Add to this, demonstrations, food halls and 3 huge craft marquees for a nostalgic trip into yesteryear. Includes admission. NEW ELY CATHEDRAL FLOWER FESTIVAL, Lincolnshire

Friday 21 June The magnificent Cathedral in Ely provides the perfect setting for the East of England’s largest flower festival. The interior will be transformed into a mass of flowers with displays representing the land, sea, sun and moon. Combined with the magnificent floral displays there will be a programme of musical performances from choirs and orchestras from around the world. Visitors will also be able to enjoy floral demonstrations, lunches, cream teas, gift shopping and walks around the monastic buildings, beautiful parkland and meadows. Includes admission.

Depart Henley: 7.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 8.00pm Adult £46.50 Concession £45.50 Child £43.50

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 7.00pm Return Henley: 11.00pm Adult £53.50 Concession £52.50 Child £48.50

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 7.30pm Adult £45.50 Concession £44.50 Child £42.50

CHOOSE FROM 33 LOCAL BOARDING POINTS – SEE THE REAR COVER

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SPECIAL EVENTS EXCURSION

NEW ERDIGG APPLE FESTIVAL, Wrexham Sunday 6 October The annual Erdigg Apple Festival is held in the leafy gardens of Erdigg, a fascinating early 18th-century country house reflecting the upstairs downstairs life of a gentry’s family over 250 years. The extensive downstairs area contains Erddig’s unique collection of servants’ portraits, while the upstairs rooms are an amazing treasure trove of fine furniture, textiles and wallpapers. The festival celebrates the apple harvest with cider tastings, apple bobbing, floral & fruit displays as well as live music and the opportunity to buy the produce. Includes admission to the festival and Erdigg Hall.

HARRY POTTER STUDIO TOUR, London Sunday 28 July & Thursday 15 August The Warner Bros. studio tour provides an amazing opportunity to explore the behind the scenes magic of the Harry Potter films. Step inside and discover the actual Great Hall, explore Dumbledore’s office and discover never-before-seen treasures. Discover a huge array of beautiful sets, costumes and props including Harry’s Nimbus 2000 and Hagrid’s motorcycle and uncover some deeply guarded secrets. We include time for lunch in Windsor before the tour in the afternoon. Includes admission.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £45.50 Concession £44.50 Child £38.50

Depart Henley: 10.00am Arrive destination: 12.00pm Depart destination: 6.45pm Return Henley: 9.00pm Adult £65.50 Concession £64.50 Child £59.50

© Flickr – Dave Catchpole

THE KNITTING AND STITCHING SHOW, Alexandra Palace, London Saturday 12 October As the name suggests this show covers knitting and stitching with so much more; embroidery, patchwork quilting, felt, jewellery and card making to name a few, with hundreds of exhibitors selling specialist supplies that you can’t find in the shops. There will be great workshops for every experience level whether you are an expert or just getting started plus exhibitions from leading artists and groups. Includes admission.

LUDLOW FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL, Shropshire Friday 13 September The castle square with its traditional open-air market and the town’s historic castle provide the perfect backdrop for this popular festival. This small town has a large reputation for good food and drink, and will feature well over 100 quality small independent food and drink producers from the Marches, the England-Wales border country. There will be demonstrations, talks and much more. Perhaps vote for your favourite sausage, bread or ale, watch the Waiters’ Race. Engage in some serious pudding tasting and try some wonderful food that you didn’t even know existed! Includes admission. © Ludlow Food Festival

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TRAVEL WITH JOHNSONS – TRAVEL WITH FRIENDS

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 8.00pm Adult £46.50 Concession £45.50 Child £43.50

Depart Henley: 10.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 5.30pm Adult £29.50 Concession £28.50 Child £25.50


SPECIAL EVENTS EXCURSION

NEW MELTON MOWBRAY COUNTRY FAIR, Leicestershire

Sunday 7 July Melton Mowbray hosts this traditional countryside event in the middle of the magnificent Town Estate Parks. Enjoy rural crafts, local food and drink, dog show, falconry, music and dance, vintage and classic vehicles plus the Melton BIG BAKE baking competition. Includes admission.

MYSTERY SUNDAY LUNCH Sunday 29 September Fancy a break from the washing up? Do you like nice surprises? Then leave it all to us! Sit back and relax and let us take you for a comfortable drive, followed by a delicious Sunday lunch at a secret destination. We can’t tell you whether you’ll be going north, south, east or west, but you can be sure of an interesting and enjoyable day out. A day with a difference! Includes Sunday lunch. NEW OLYMPIC LEGACY TOUR, London Monday 19 August &

Monday 23 September Following the hugely successful Olympic Games an extensive programme of works is now being undertaken that will transform the entire site into the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Exactly one year to the day the North Park will be the first section to be completed and we enjoy a Blue Badge guided tour of this newly opened section. Our day also includes a carvery lunch and a return flight on the Thames Cable Car from where there is a terrific view of the Olympic Stadium. Please note the tour does not include the Olympic Stadium, the Aquatic Centre or the Orbit as this section is not due to be completed until 2014. Includes blue badge guided tour, lunch and a return cable car ride.

ROYAL ASCOT LADIES’ DAY ‘SILVER OPTION’, Berkshire Thursday 20 June One of the great days out in the English social calendar. Enter into the excitement and elegance of Ladies’ Day at Royal Ascot – a fabulous opportunity to put on your finery and mingle amongst the extraordinary hats, providing a backdrop to the electricity of the Race Meeting. A fabulous, full day out including breakfast en-route, a 3-course evening meal, Silver Ring tickets and convenient access. Includes breakfast, 3-course evening meal and ‘Silver Ring’ Tickets.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 10.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 6.00pm Adult £35.50 Concession £34.50 Child £30.50

Depart Henley: 11.00am Return Henley: 5.00pm Adult £39.50 Concession £38.50 Child £31.50

© www.WordPress.com

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.45am Depart destination: 4.45pm Return Henley:8.30pm Adult £66.50 Concession £65.50 Child £65.50

© Flickr – The Department for Culture Media and Sport

Depart Henley: 7.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 6.30pm Return Henley: 11.00pm Adult £102.50 Concession £102.50 Child £N/A

© Ascot Racecourse

OVER 195 DIFFERENT LOCATIONS TO CHOOSE FROM!

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SPECIAL EVENTS EXCURSION

THE ROYAL WELSH SHOW, Powys

© www.rwas.co.uk

Tuesday 23 July Set on the permanent site in Builth Wells, the Show has been held for over 100 years and is a great day out. There will be displays of top quality livestock, over 1,000 trade stands selling produce and handicrafts, along with main ring entertainment and attractions. This is sure to be an interesting experience! Includes admission.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 7.30pm Adult £50.50 Concession £49.50 Child £32.50

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Tuesday 23 April Depart destination: Enjoy exclusive access to areas normally closed 4.30pm to the public, including the Works Department Return Henley: 7.30pm where the stone masons & glaziers work, the Adult £46.50 library, vestry and the organ loft. As well as Concession £45.50 this look ‘behind the scenes‘ there will be floral Child £39.50 art, embroidery demonstrations along with informal musical performance and craft workshops where visitors can try their hand at creating an illuminated letter or clay gargoyle! Includes admission and refreshments.

SECRET SALISBURY CATHEDRAL, Wiltshire NEW

ST PAULS CATHEDRAL WITH GUIDED TOUR, London Thursday 5 September The cathedral was designed by the architect Sir Christopher Wren after its predecessor was destroyed in the Great Fire of London. It was built between 1675 and 1710 and the history of the nation is written in the carved stone of its pillars and arches. Visit the Ambulatory and the Stone and Golden Galleries and the Crypt. In the crypt lie some of the nation’s heroes including the Cathedral’s architect Sir Christopher Wren as well as the magnificent tombs of Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington. Includes admission and guided tour.

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 8.30pm Adult £49.50 Concession £48.50 Child £38.50

© Flickr – Hyougushi

SUNDAY LUNCH WITH JAZZ & BARNSDALE GARDENS, Rutland Sunday 5 May We travel to picturesque Rutland Water and to the Barnsdale Hall Hotel, with beautiful views over Rutland Water. We enjoy a tasty 3-course carvery lunch, which is accompanied by light jazz music. We continue to beautiful Barnsdale Gardens, where there are 38 individually designed and well stocked gardens to explore. They range in style from traditional to modern gardens, allotments, woodlands and formal ponds and there is also a well-stocked plant nursery. Includes 3-course carvery lunch with jazz and admission to gardens.

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RESERVED SEATING ON ALL EXCURSIONS

Depart Henley: 10.00am Arrive destination: 12.15pm Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 5.45pm Adult £47.50 Concession £46.50 Child £43.50


SPECIAL EVENTS EXCURSION

WELL DRESSING IN DERBYSHIRE Saturday 22 June & Monday 24 June The blessing of the water supply, in the form of the well, is an ancient custom which is unique to the Peak District and the surrounding areas such as South Yorkshire and East Staffordshire. The custom had almost died out in the 1950s, but has recently been revived. We visit picturesque Derbyshire to witness the unique tradition of well dressing – a stunning display of elaborate pictures made from flower petals. We continue through Derbyshire, making a stop for lunch while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 8.00am Return Henley: 6.00pm Adult £32.50 Concession £31.50 Child £25.50

© Flickr – donald judge

NEW WENTWORTH CASTLE GARDENS WITH Depart Henley: 09.00am Arrive destination: TEA DANCE, South Yorkshire Sunday 2 June 11.00am There are 60 acres of formal gardens at Wentworth Castle Depart destination: and their structure and design reflect different periods of 4.00pm garden history and the interests of the generations of Return Henley: 6.00pm Wentworths who lived here. Wentworth is also home to Adult £50.50 three National Plant collections, Rhododendrons, Concession £49.50 Camellias and Magnolias. We enjoy a guided tour to Child £45.50 learn about the history and stories behind the development of the house, gardens and parkland. To round off our visit we include a ticket to the afternoon tea dance in the Long Barn. Included admission, guided tour and tea dance.

WESTMINSTER ABBEY WITH GUIDED TOUR, London Thursday 17 October Westminster Abbey is steeped in more than a thousand years of history. It has been the coronation church since 1066 and is the final resting place of seventeen monarchs. Kings, queens, statesmen and soldiers; poets, priests, heroes and villains – the Abbey is a mustsee living pageant of British history. Highlights include the high altar, Poet’s Corner, the Cloisters and the Lady Chapel. Our guided tour brings the history of this magnificent building to life. Includes admission and guided tour.

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 8.00pm Adult £47.50 Concession £46.50 Child £38.50

© Flickr – OwenXu

WICKSTEED PARK, HURRAY FOR HOLLYWOOD, Northamptonshire Tuesday 15 October Founded by Charles Wicksteed, Wicksteed Park combines excitement and entertainment with the tranquillity of a Grade 11 country park. Today we enjoy an afternoon of song and dance. ‘Hooray for Hollywood’ is a glittering tribute to the stars and the magnificent songs for which they are remembered, performed by a sensational cast of singers and dancers accompanied by an outstanding orchestra. Includes admission, lunch and cream tea.

Club Class

Depart Henley: 09.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 6.15pm Adult £49.50 Concession £48.50 Child £42.50

LUXURY ‘CLUB CLASS’ COACHES ON ALL EXCURSIONS

Club Class

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HISTORIC HOUSES & CASTLES EXCURSION

DEPARTURES / PRICING

BELTON HOUSE (NT), Lincolnshire Wednesday 5 June Depart Henley: 9.30am Arrive destination: We enjoy refreshments on arrival as we visit this ‘perfect’ English 11.30am country house estate which is set in a magnificent deer park and Depart destination: was designed to impress! Its honey-coloured symmetry, opulent 4.00pm décor, fine furnishings, stunning silverware and gorgeous gardens provided the perfect setting for lavish hospitality and entertainment Return Henley: 6.00pm on a grand scale. There are formal Italian gardens and an Orangery Adult £39.50 with exotic ferns and lush foliage. Includes admission and Concession £38.50 refreshments. Reduction for National Trust members. Child £32.50 © Flickr – Martin Pettitt

BELVOIR CASTLE WITH GUIDED TOUR, Leicestershire Monday 10 June NEW

Belvoir Castle stands on a prominent hilltop near Grantham in Lincolnshire and is home of the Duke and Duchess of Rutland. Its stunning staterooms contain one of the finest private collections of fine art, tapestries, furniture and sculpture whilst the Old Kitchen and Bakery shows life ‘below stairs’ in 1825. The Schoolroom and Nursery give an insight into lessons and play in Regency times and there are beautiful formal gardens to explore. Includes admission and guided tour.

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 11.15am Depart destination: 4.15pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £41.50 Concession £39.50 Child £35.50

© Nancy @ www.wikipedia.org

NEW BOLSOVER CASTLE (EH), Derbyshire Saturday 1 June We travel to Chesterfield where there is time to explore before our afternoon visit to Bolsover Castle. Set on a hilltop overlooking the Vale of Scarsdale this 17th century castle offers panoramic views over the surrounding countryside. The castle also houses the Riding House, one of the finest surviving indoor riding schools in the country and a landmark in British equestrianism. Today only four schools of classical dressage remain in the world and Bolsover is the only place in the country to stage regular displays of this spectacular art. Includes admission. Reduction for English Heritage members.

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 10.45am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 6.15pm Adult £37.50 Concession £36.50 Child £34.50

NEW CARDIFF CASTLE Sunday 1 September In the heart of the capital city is Cardiff Castle, a truly remarkable site of international importance. During 2000 years of history, the Castle has been a Roman Garrison, a Norman stronghold and in Victorian times was transformed into a gothic fairytale fantasy. Each breathtaking room has its own special theme, including Mediterranean gardens and Italian and Arabian decoration: Discover these stunning rooms and apartments with an informative guided tour. Includes guides tour.

Depart Henley: 7.45am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 3.30pm Return Henley: 6.15pm Adult £46.50 Concession £45.50 Child £44.50

CHARTWELL (NT), Kent Thursday 9 May

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 7.30pm Adult £46.50 Concession £45.50 Child £38.50

© SMJ

This was the family home of Winston Churchill from 1924 until the end of his life. The rooms and gardens remain much as they did when he lived there and contain personal memorabilia, books and family photographs. The beautiful terraced gardens contain Lady Churchill’s Rose Garden and there are lakes created by Churchill. The garden areas provided inspiration for Churchill’s paintings, many of which are on display in the house’s garden studio. Includes admission. Reduction for National Trust members.

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GREAT DAYS OUT… FROM APRIL TO OCTOBER!


HISTORIC HOUSES & CASTLES EXCURSION

CHATSWORTH HOUSE, Derbyshire Friday 24 May One of Derbyshire’s best-loved stately homes, set in the very heart of the Peak District National Park. With over 1,000 acres of splendid parkland, Chatsworth is the home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and houses a fine collection of furniture and fine arts. The house has over 30 rooms to explore, from the magnificent Painted Hall, to the family-used chapel, regal State Rooms, newly restored Sketch Galleries and beautiful Sculpture Gallery. In the garden you can discover a huge maze, the rockery and the rose gardens, the cottage and kitchen gardens as well as tranquil walks with rare trees, shrubs, streams and ponds to discover. Includes admission.

DUNHAM MASSEY (NT), Cheshire Wednesday 25 September Set in a magnificent 300-acre deer-park, this Georgian house tells the story of the owners and servants who lived there, including scandals and tales of forbidden love. Uncover the stories and take a stroll in one of the North’s great gardens, including Britain’s largest winter garden. Includes admission Reduction for National Trust members.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 10.00am Arrive destination: 12.00 Depart destination: 5.30pm Return Henley: 7.30pm Adult £39.50 Concession £38.50 Child £34.50

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.00 Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £45.50 Concession £44.50 Child £38.50 © Jeff Buck

ELTHAM PALACE (EH) WITH GUIDED TOUR, London Tuesday 14 May Immerse yourself in 1930s Art Deco decadence at Eltham Palace, built by the wealthy Courtauld family next to the remains of Eltham Palace, childhood home of Henry VIII, it’s among the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in England. Our guided tour takes in highlights such as the stunning entrance hall, panelled dining room, luxurious bathroom and magnificent medieval Great Hall. There are also beautiful gardens to explore. Includes admission and guided tour. Reduction for English Heritage members.

NEW GRIMSTHORPE CASTLE, Lincolnshire Thursday 2 May Grimsthorpe has been the home of the de Eresby family since 1516, when it was granted by Henry VIII to the 11th Baron Willoughby de Eresby on the occasion of his marriage. The castle is surrounded by 3000 acres of stunning parkland and we enjoy a guided tour on our coach to view rolling pasture, landscaped lakes and ancient oak woodland. There is time for lunch and to explore a little before our guided tour of the Castle in the afternoon. Includes guided tour of the grounds & the Castle.

Depart Henley: 7.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 3.30pm Return Henley: 7.30pm Adult £43.50 Concession £42.50 Child £36.50

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.15pm Return Henley: 6.45pm Adult £40.50 Concession £39.50 Child £34.50 © Richard Croft

HARDWICK HALL (NT), Derbyshire Thursday 1 August Depart Henley: 9.30am Arrive destination: Hardwick Hall is a magnificent statement of the wealth and status of 11.15am its builder, Bess of Hardwick. It remains almost unchanged since the Depart destination: time that she lived there and gives an insight into the formality of 4.15pm Elizabethan courtly life. There are walled courtyards enclosing Return Henley: 6.00pm gardens and orchards, along with are commanding views of the surrounding countryside. Includes admission to the ‘Old Hall’ Adult £44.50 and ‘New Hall’. Reduction for National Trust and English Heritage Concession £43.50 members. Child £36.50 © Richard Croft

Club Class

ALL PRICES INCLUDE ADMISSION CHARGES

Club Class

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HISTORIC HOUSES & CASTLES EXCURSION

NEW HAREWOOD HOUSE, Leeds, Yorkshire Sunday 16 June Harewood is one of the treasure houses of England. Set in the heart of Yorkshire it is the family seat of the Earl and Countess of Harewood. It houses an impressive art collection, renaissance masterpieces and exquisite Chippendale furniture. If you want to stretch your legs there are 100 acres of award winning gardens and a renowned lakeside Bird Garden. Includes admission. © Kippa Matthews

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 11.15am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 7.45pm Adult £47.50 Concession £46.50 Child £41.50

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: This Jacobean house dates back to 1611 and was splendidly 11.45am decorated for entertaining the Royal Court, with State Rooms rich in Depart destination: paintings, fine furniture and tapestries. There are superb examples of Jacobean craftsmanship, such as the Grand Staircase with its fine 4.45pm Return Henley: 7.30pm carving and the rare stained glass window in the private chapel. There are many historic mementos collected over the centuries by Adult £39.50 the Cecils, one of England’s foremost political families. Concession £38.50 Includes admission. Child £35.50

HATFIELD HOUSE, Hertfordshire Wednesday 29 May

HIGHCLERE CASTLE & EGYPTIAN EXHIBITION, Berkshire Tuesday 2 April, Monday 15 July & Thursday 12 September We stop in Newbury allowing time for lunch before our afternoon visit to Highclere Castle. The castle is the ancestral home of the Earls of Carnarvon and is one of England’s most important Victorian castles. Set in spectacular parkland, its stunning state rooms include the Saloon, Music Room and Library. View the impressive collection of ancient Egyptian finds accumulated from excavations carried out by the 5th Earl and Howard Carter, along with a gallery of photographs recalling their discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922. The Castle was one of the film locations for the popular TV programme ‘Downton Abbey’. Includes admission to Castle and Exhibition.

Depart Henley: 9.15am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 6.45pm Adult £45.50 Concession £43.50 Child £37.50

© Highclere Castle 2011

KELMARSH HALL & GARDENS WITH GUIDED TOUR, Northamptonshire Tuesday 17 September A graceful 18th century house set in beautiful romantic gardens and surrounded by its own working estate in the rolling Northamptonshire and Leicestershire countryside. A guided tour brings the house to life and includes the Croome Court Exhibition, showcasing the 18th century collection of furniture from the newly re-opened house in Worcestershire (see separate tour). Includes house tour, Croome Court Exhibition, admission to gardens and light refreshments.

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 6.00pm Adult £45.50 Concession £44.50 Child £32.50

© James Yardley

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 11.15am This was the home of William Morris – poet, craftsman and socialist – Depart destination: from 1871 until his death in 1896. The house contains a collection of 4.00pm the possessions and works of Morris and his associates including Return Henley: 6.00pm furniture, textiles, carpets and ceramics. The garden was a constant source of inspiration and the images are reflected in his textile and Adult £35.50 Concession £34.50 wallpaper designs. Includes admission, guided tour, light Child £32.50 refreshments and lunch.

KELMSCOTT MANOR WITH GUIDED TOUR & LUNCH, Gloucestershire Thursday 31 October

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HISTORIC HOUSES & CASTLES EXCURSION

NEW KNEBWORTH HOUSE & GARDENS, Hertfordshire Sunday 22 September One of England’s most beloved stately homes, Knebworth House was the home of Victorian novelist Edward Bulwer Lytton – author of the words “The pen is mightier than the sword”. In fact this beautiful gothic mansion has been home to the Lytton family since 1490. We enjoy a guided tour to learn about this fascinating house & family. Outside there are glorious grounds including a rose and herb garden and an interesting maze to explore. Includes admission and guided tour.

LACOCK ABBEY, FOX TALBOT MUSEUM AND VILLAGE (NT), Wiltshire Wednesday 8 May This wonderful property features medieval half-timbered gables, clock tower and period interiors. Beautifully complemented by Botanic and Woodland Gardens, the Abbey has at its gate, the enchanting Lacock village – a popular film and TV location. The Abbey’s most famous son was William Henry Fox Talbot, the ‘Father of Photography’ and a museum to him and his work is housed in a Medieval Barn. Includes admission to Abbey and Museum. Reduction for National Trust Members.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 8.15am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 6.45pm Adult £42.50 Concession £41.50 Child £39.50

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £43.50 Concession £42.50 Child £36.50 © David Dixon

LEEDS CASTLE, Kent Tuesday 13 August Listed in Domesday Book as a Saxon manor, Leeds Castle has played many roles in the intervening centuries. It has been a Norman stronghold; the private property of six of England’s medieval queens; a palace used by Henry VIII and his first wife; a Jacobean country house and a Georgian mansion. Said to be the loveliest castle in the world, the Castle is in a superb moated position in a magnificent 500 acre park. 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 parkland, and perhaps venture into the challenging maze. There are also picnic areas and restaurants and a fascinating Dog Collar Museum. Includes admission.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 12.00pm Depart destination: 5.30pm Return Henley: 9.00pm Adult £50.50 Concession £49.50 Child £43.50

© Leeds Castle Foundation

LONGLEAT HOUSE & SAFARI PARK, Wiltshire Sunday 15 September Longleat House, the home of the 7th Marquess of Bath, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful stately homes open to the public and contains many fine treasures and tapestries. Get close to lions, tigers and giraffes in the Safari Park – many of them ‘stars’ of BBC’s ‘Animal Park’, then perhaps join a Safari Boat or the Longleat Railway. With 11 attractions to explore there is something for everyone! Includes admission to Safari Park and ground floor of House.

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £48.50 Concession £47.50 Child £45.50 © www.longleat.co.uk

POWIS CASTLE (NT), Powys Friday 17 May We make a short sop in Welshpool before our visit to Powis Castle. Perched on a rock above the garden terraces, the medieval castle contains one of the finest collections of paintings and furniture in Wales. Laid out under the influence of Italian and French styles, the world famous garden retains its original statues, an orangery and an aviary. Includes admission Reduction for National Trust members. Please note that certain parts of the castle may not be accessible to the less mobile.

Depart Henley: 9.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £44.50 Concession £43.50 Child £36.50 © Flickr – steve p2008

LUXURY ‘CLUB CLASS’ COACHES ON ALL EXCURSIONS

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HISTORIC HOUSES & CASTLES EXCURSION

ROCKINGHAM CASTLE AND CREAM TEA, Leicestershire Tuesday 18 June The Castle stands on the edge of an escarpment giving dramatic views over the Welland Valley and five countries, with beautiful gardens, including the 19th century Rose Garden. The old kitchen has recently been resorted to how it would have looked in 1849 and shows the preparation for a grand dinner. The Great Hall was built on the instruction of William the Conqueror in 1086 and has a strong Tudor atmosphere with portraits of Queen Elizabeth I and her most powerful advisors. Includes admission and cream tea.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 10.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 5.30pm Adult £44.50 Concession £43.50 Child £41.50

Depart Henley: 10.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am This is a rare example of the survival of a complete estate, with all major Depart destination: buildings including the mansion house, servants’ quarters, model farm 5.00pm and walled garden. The historic garden has terraces, a lake and several Return Henley: 6.30pm monuments of national importance; admire the Earl of Lichfield’s private arboretum with stunning views of the house and a collection of Adult £45.50 Concession £44.50 rare oak trees. The farm has a working watermill, kitchens and dairy where costumed guides produce flour, butter, cheese and ale. At the end Child £38.50 of our visit, ‘Everything Stops for Tea’ as we are joined by one of the servants who believes it is 1871. We enjoy a cream tea in The Garden Room as our hostess shares some idle Victorian gossip! Includes admission and cream tea. Reduction for National Trust members.

SHUGBOROUGH ESTATE (NT) WITH CREAM TEA, Staffordshire Wednesday 2 October

© Shugborough House

TYNTESFIELD (NT), Somerset Tuesday 16 April Tyntesfield is a spectacular Victorian country house situated on a ridge overlooking the beautiful Yeo Valley. The mansion bristles with towers and turrets and survives with much of its unrivalled Victorian interior intact; the ongoing restoration of the house was featured in a TV series. Gain an insight into life below stairs, and admire the sumptuously decorated private chapel – all set in 500acres of landscaped gardens. Includes admission. Reduction for National Trust members. Please note there is a 10/15 minute walk from the coach park to the house.

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 6.15pm Adult £42.50 Concession £41.50 Child £35.50

© Flickr – jocki84

NEW WADDESDON MANOR (NT), Buckinghamshire Friday 23 August On a hilltop, overlooking the Aylesbury Vale, Waddesdon is the last remaining complete example of ‘le style Rothschild’. Its 45 rooms combine the highest quality French furniture and decorative arts from the 18th century with magnificent English portraits and Dutch Old Masters. The garden has colourful shrubs and mature trees as well as a magnificent aviary. Includes admission to house and grounds and refreshments on arrival. Reduction for National Trust Members.

Depart Henley: 9.45am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 5.15pm Adult £44.50 Concession £43.50 Child £38.50

NEW WARWICK CASTLE, Warwickshire Sunday 26 May Attacked in 1264, besieged in 1642 and damage by fire in 1871, the Castle has nevertheless survived the ever-changing fortunes of history. Warwick Castle remained under the stewardship of the Earls of Warwick and later the Greville Family as a private home until 1978. Behind the Castle’s mighty walls, lies the real heart of the Castle with the beautiful grand interiors. Marvel at the magnificent Great Hall then explore the lavish state rooms whilst also experiencing the tranquility inside the Earl’s private Chapel. Includes admission.

Depart Henley: 10.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 4.30pm Adult £36.50 Concession £33.50 Child £31.50

© The National Trust-Photo-Stuart Bebb

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GREAT DAYS OUT… FROM APRIL TO OCTOBER!


AIRSHOWS EXCURSION

DEPARTURES / PRICING

BOURNEMOUTH AIR SHOW, Dorset Saturday 31 August Set against the backdrop of Bournemouth’s seven miles of award-winning beaches and glorious gardens, this is the largest event of its kind in the country. Expect aviation thrills, breathtaking displays and awesome jets! Look out for incredible display teams, Royal Marine beach assaults, Royal Navy, aircraft, helicopters, entertainment along the pier, street entertainers, interactive military villages, live music, military bands and the Royal Marines…all by the sea and completely free! Admission is free.

Depart Henley: 7.00am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 6.00pm Return Henley: 9.30pm Adult £39.50 Concession £38.50 Child £33.50

NEW EASTBOURNE AIR SHOW Friday 16 August The elegant seaside town of Eastbourne is sheltered by the rolling expanse of the South Downs and the towering cliffs of Beachy Head. Now in its 21st year it plays host to ‘Airbourne’. Featuring the best of the RAF and international display teams across eight miles of seafront and the well know beauty spot of Beach Head. Flying displays include the RAF Tornado, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Chinook and Sea King plus parachute display teams, wingwalkers and aerobatic teams. Admission is free.

Depart Henley: 7.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 9.00pm Adult £40.50 Concession £39.50 Child £33.50

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUMS: DUXFORD AIR SHOW

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 10.00 Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley:7.30pm Adult £56.50 Concession £53.50 Child £45.50

© Mark Jarvis

Saturday 7 September The show is the highlight of the IWM programme of flying events and features an amazing array of aerial displays. Showcasing contemporary jet aircraft, historic warbirds and show stopping performances it is a truly entertaining aerial spectacle. There is plenty of time to explore the museum and the on-site activities before the flying display which starts at approximately 2pm. Includes admission.

© Flickr – p_a_h

RAF COSFORD AIR SHOW, Nr Telford Sunday 9 June The Midland’s premier air event, offering nonstop entertainment both in the air with displays from a wide variety of aircraft, and on the ground with hundreds of exhibits, colourful stalls and trade stands, military demonstrations and family entertainment. The main focus this year will be the 75th Anniversary of RAF Cosford and this will be celebrated both in the air and on the ground. Other themes will include 75 years since the Spitfire entered RAF Service and 40 years of service from the Jaguar aircraft. Includes admission.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 10.00am Depart destination: 6.00pm Return Henley: 7.30pm Adult £42.50 Concession £41.50 Child £36.50

© Wordpress.com

ALL PRICES INCLUDE ADMISSION CHARGES

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AIRSHOWS EXCURSION

RAF FAIRFORD INTERNATIONAL AIR TATTOO, Gloucestershire Saturday 20 July Look to the skies for the greatest flying display in the world – eight hours of non-stop high flying entertainment, crack aerobatic teams from a host of countries, sizzling solo displays plus hundreds of aircraft both vintage and modern in a two-mile static park. Bi-planes from the Great War contrast with the most modern machinery in a magnificent aerial pageant. Includes admission.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 7.00am Arrive destination: 9.00am Depart destination: 6.30pm Return Henley: 8.30pm Adult £57.50 Concession £56.50 Child £36.50

© Flickr – Ronnie Macdonald

Depart Henley: 7.00am Arrive destination: 10.00am Saturday 6 July Depart destination: This is the largest of the RAF’s official air shows 6.00pm and is well attended by aircraft from around Return Henley: 8.30pm the western world – including many not often Adult £56.50 seen in the UK. The 7-hour flying display has a Concession £55.50 truly international flavour and is expected to Child £46.50 include at least 3 top international display teams. The static aircraft display will feature up to 100 military and civilian aircraft in 3 separate parks. Includes admission.

RAF WADDINGTON INTERNATIONAL AIRSHOW, Lincolnshire

© Flickr – comedy_nose

NEW WALES NATIONAL AIRSHOW Saturday 13 July Swansea Bay makes a spectacular backdrop for the Wales National Airshow and features an exhilarating mix of aerobatic displays with a variety of aircraft including high speed jets, helicopter displays and a vintage fly past. On the ground Swansea prom will be home to the showground featuring exciting military displays and many other attractions. Admission is free.

Depart Henley: 7.00am Arrive destination: 10.15am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 8.00pm Adult £37.50 Concession £36.50 Child £31.50

NEW WINGS & WHEELS Saturday 24 August Wings & Wheels will be returning to the historic setting of Dunsfold Park Aerodrome (home of BBC’s Top Gear), Guildford in Surrey for its ninth successive year. Enjoy a spectacular display of aerobatic and motoring thrills along with stunt driving, vehicle exhibitions, shopping and many other arena attractions. The ‘Wings’ of the event will include an exhibition of all the weekends visiting aircraft and Dunsfold’s resident Boeing 747 – most famously seen in Casino Royale. Includes admission.

Depart Henley: 7.00am Arrive destination: 10.00am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 8.00pm Adult £52.50 Concession £51.50 Child £41.50

© Flickr – Ronnie Macdonald

© 2013 Wings & Wheels

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YOU CAN ‘PARK AND RIDE’ FOR FREE! – SEE THE REAR COVER


MUSEUMS & THE ARTS EXCURSION

DEPARTURES / PRICING

NEW AMERICAN MUSEUM, Bath Friday 25 October This interesting museum takes you on a journey through the history of America, from its early settlers to the 20th century and illustrates the complexity of American culture through remarkable collections of folk and decorative arts. View the exhibitions including furnished period rooms and an outstanding collection of quilts and other textiles. There are over 100 acres of grounds including the Mount Vernon Garden and the American Arboretum, with stunning views. Includes admission.

Depart Henley: 9.30am Arrive destination: 12.00am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £41.50 Concession £40.50 Child £37.50

BLACK COUNTRY LIVING MUSEUM, Dudley

Depart Henley: 10.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 5.30pm Adult £37.50 Concession £36.50 Child £31.50

© AMib 2009

Wednesday 9 October Historic buildings from the Black Country have been moved and rebuilt to create a living tribute to the traditional skills and enterprise of the people that once lived in the heart of industrial Britain. Meet the characters in the original shops and houses, ride on a tramcar or take a lesson in an old-fashioned school. There are demonstrations to suit all tastes, pints of ale in the ‘Bottle and Glass Inn’ and fish and chips as they used to be! Includes admission.

BROOKLANDS MUSEUM & CONCORDE EXPERIENCE, Surrey Monday 14 October Brooklands was the birthplace of British motorsport and aviation, home of Concorde and the site of many engineering and technological achievements throughout the 20th century. The Museum displays a wide variety of motoring and aviation exhibits – giant racing cars, motorcycles, bicycles and an unparalleled collection of Hawker and Vickers/ BAC-built aircraft, including Concorde. Includes admission, guided tour and Concorde Experience.

© Black Country Living Museum

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £42.50 Concession £41.50 Child £35.50 © www.brooklandsmuseum.com

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 11.15am On the banks of the Beaulieu river is the unique and picturesque Depart destination: village of Buckers Hard which was a thriving shipbuilding village during 4.30pm the 18th century. Take a trip to the 1790s and meet an inhabitant of Return Henley: 8.00pm Buckler’s Hard who tells of the life in the village. On our guided tour we learn about the building of warships for Nelson’s fleet and discover Adult £45.50 Concession £44.50 other key events in the shipbuilding history of the village. After lunch Child £43.50 we take a short cruise on the river including an interesting commentary. Please note this is not suitable for the less mobile. Includes admission, guided tour and river cruise. NEW BUCKLERS HARD MARITIME MUSEUM, Hampshire Tuesday 10 September

BURY TRANSPORT MUSEUM AND EAST LANCASHIRE RAILWAY Thursday 26 September NEW

We enjoy refreshments on arrival before our guided tour of this interesting museum and relive the glory days of British transport. Through interactive displays, vintage vehicle exhibits and original artefacts you can explore the stories of people’s lives and jobs in the early 20th Century. After lunch we take a return ride on the East Lancashire Railway and enjoy the nostalgia of a bygone era. Includes refreshments, admission and return train journey.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £45.50 Concession £44.50 Child £42.50 © Flickr – Firing up the quattro....

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MUSEUMS & THE ARTS EXCURSION

NEW DOCTOR WHO EXPERIENCE, Cardiff Saturday 27 July Join the Doctor on a spectacular adventure through time and space and come face-to-face with some of the scariest monsters seen on screen including Daleks, Cybermen and Sontarans. Specially created sets, images and interactive experiences allow you to discover firsthand what happens behind the scenes of the iconic television series and how the special effects are created. View the world’s most extensive collection of original Doctor Who props and artefacts which includes the entire collection of Doctors’ iconic costumes from 1963 to the present day. Includes admission.

‘ENIGMA’ – THE CODE BREAKERS’ STATION WITH GUIDED TOUR, Buckinghamshire

Depart Henley: 9.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 5.30pm Adult £39.50 Concession £38.50 Child £32.50

Monday 8 April & Wednesday 23 October Bletchley Park, also known as ‘Station X’, was home to the famous code breakers of the Second World War and the birthplace of modern computing and communications. 12,000 people worked here in complete secrecy! Our visit includes a guided tour of the Park, which gives a background to the Code and Cypher School, then through the Cryptology Trail, culminating in a viewing of the rebuilt Colossus, a replica of the first computer and the Enigma Machine, the main coding device which was believed to be unbreakable. Includes admission and guided tour.

© Flickr – Cargo Cult © Flickr – Capt’ Gorgeous

GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY, Swindon, & Didcot, Oxfordshire Wednesday 30 October NEW

The Great Western Railway was one of the most recognisable of the old private operators with its express trains of chocolate and cream carriages being pulled by the famous Brunswick green locomotives. STEAM – Museum of the Great Western Railway is housed in a beautifully restored Grade II railway building in the heart of the former Swindon railway works. The Museum tells the story of the men and women who built, operated and travelled on the Great Western Railway a railway network that, through the pioneering vision and genius of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, was regarded as the most advanced in the world. We learn more about GWR on our visit to Didcot Railway Centre and view the unique collection of locomotives. Includes admission to both museums.

GREENWICH AND THE CUTTY SARK, London Thursday 11 April & Tuesday 8th October The Cutty Sark is a true national icon of British maritime History and is the last surviving tea clipper of her time. Explore the ships rich and tumultuous history, her cargos from tea to buffalo horns, and the cultures and lives she has touched throughout her 140 year lifespan. There is free time in Greenwich in the afternoon. Includes admission. ©Visit Greenwich

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM, London Sunday 20 October This award-winning museum tells the story of 20th century conflict on the home front and on the front line. Highlights include a major new family exhibition ‘Horrible Histories’ well as an exciting new programme of art and photography exhibitions: ‘Extraordinary Heroes’, ‘The Holocaust Exhibition’, ‘Secret War,’ and ‘A Family in Wartime’. Admission is free, although entry is payable to special exhibitions. © Flickr – Marcin Wichary

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DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 10.45am Depart destination: 3.30pm Return Henley: 6.15pm Adult £49.50 Concession £48.50 Child £47

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 10.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 5.30pm Adult £45.50 Concession £43.50 Child £42.50

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 8.30pm Adult £43.50 Concession £42.50 Child £39.50 Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 8.00pm Adult £31.50 Concession £30.50 Child £24.50

WITH 13 EXCURSION THEMES – THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!


MUSEUMS & THE ARTS EXCURSION

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 9.30am IRONBRIDGE GORGE MUSEUMS, Shropshire Arrive destination: Saturday 26 October 10.45am Ironbridge is a World Heritage Site and has a wide variety of Depart destination: attractions to explore. Chat to the townsfolk in Blists Hill Victorian 4.00pm Town and admire the magnificent ceramics at the Coalport China Return Henley: 5.15pm Museum. Find out about the curiosities of the clay pipe tobacco Adult £47.50 industry at Broseley Pipeworks, explore displays of decorative tiles in the Jackfield Tile Museum and of course appreciate the impressive Concession £46.50 Child £37.50 Iron Bridge itself. Includes admission. © www.ironbridge.org.uk

SPECIAL LONDON MUSEUMS Saturday 5 October It will be hard to choose how to spend your time, there is so much to see! Perhaps opt for the Natural History Museum, where you can learn about volcanoes and earthquakes, the Science Museum which tracks the development of the modern world, or The Victoria and Albert Museum, the world’s greatest museum of art and design. Admission is free, although there may be a charge for special exhibitions.

Depart Henley: 08.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 7.30pm Adult £24.50 Concession £24.50 Child £21.50

MORGAN MOTOR MUSEUM, Worcestershire

Depart Henley: 09.30am Arrive destination: 10.45am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 6.00pm Adult £38.50 Concession £37.50 Child £36.50

© V&A images

Tuesday 7 May We visit Upton on Severn and Ledbury before our afternoon visit to Malvern. For over 100 years the Morgan Motor Company has been making exciting sports cars in the beautiful spa town of Malvern. Morgan cars are famous the world over for their unique blend of quality materials, craftsmanship and performance. Experience the passion for yourself with a factory tour followed by a visit to the museum to view the collection of Morgan three wheeled cars most of which are still in working order. Includes admission and factory tour.

©MorganMotorCompany

Depart Henley: 9.30am NATIONAL MEMORIAL ARBORETUM & LICHFIELD, destination: Staffordshire Thursday 25 April & Saturday 21 September Arrive 10.30am The National Memorial Arboretum comprises 150 acres of trees and 130 Depart destination: memorials of national significance; you can cover as much or as little 4.30pm of the site as you wish. It is the home of the moving Armed Forces Return Henley: 5.30pm Memorial which remembers those who have given their lives since the end of WWII. In the afternoon, choose to explore the Arboretum further Adult £26.50 or take our coach to the nearby city of Lichfield, with its Cathedral and Concession £25.50 many shops. A day not to be missed! Admission is free but donations Child £22.50 to the Arboretum can be made on site. © NMA – Red Devil

NEW PORT SUNLIGHT MUSEUM & VILLAGE TOUR, Wirral Wednesday 16 October The historic village of Port Sunlight Museum & Garden Village was created by William Hesketh Lever for his Sunlight soap factory workers in 1888; almost every building in the village is Grade II listed. We enjoy a guided tour which brings the village to life and there is an engaging Museum where you may encounter characters from the village’s past! Includes guided tour of village and museum admission.

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £43.50 Concession £42.50 Child £39.50 © Port Sunlight Museum & Garden Village

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MUSEUMS & THE ARTS EXCURSION

DEPARTURES / PRICING

NEW RIPLEYS BELIEVE IT OR NOT, London Tuesday 29 October With over 700 authentic artefacts and astonishing interactive exhibits spanning across 6 floors, Ripley’s Believe It or Not celebrates the weird, wonderful and bizarre in all its’ forms in the heart of the Capital’s West End. From a life sized knitted Ferrari to an 8ft Transformer, a Mirror Maze and the Impossible Laser Race. Step into the oddly wonderful world of the legendary Robert Ripley, an intrepid world traveller, cartoonist, reporter, adventure and seeker of the most bizarre and unusual. New for 2013 is the Legends Gallery, home to the single largest collection of Olympic Torches, including the London Games torch signed by track cyclist Laura Trott. Includes admission.

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 7.30pm Adult £51.50 Concession £50.50 Child £48.50

NEW THE ROMAN BATHS, Bath Monday 30 September The Romans built a magnificent temple and bathing complex around Britain’s only hot spring that still flows with natural hot water. See the water’s source and walk where Romans walked on the ancient stone pavements around the steaming pool. The extensive ruins and treasures from the spring are beautifully preserved and presented using the best of modern interpretation. There is free time to explore Bath after our visit to this interesting site. Includes admission.

Depart Henley: 8.15am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.15pm Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £43.50 Concession £42.50 Child £39.50

SS GREAT BRITAIN Tuesday 1 October

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 3.00pm Return Henley: 5.30pm Adult £38.50 Concession £37.50 Child £31.50

© Flickr – JustAnotherGuyInWales

We travel to Bristol to explore one of the great masterpieces of the Victorian engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel – the ‘SS Great Britain’. The world’s first iron hulled steam powered passenger liner, launched in 1843 and now restored to her former glory, forms the centrepiece of a Maritime Heritage Centre. The Dockyard Museum tells the ss Great Britain’s remarkable story, from her launch in 1843 through a long career as luxury liner, emigrant steam clipper to a super-sized sailing ship carrying coal to San Francisco. You will discover the story of her rescue from the bottom of the South Atlantic and her final triumphant return to Bristol. Includes admission. © SS Great Britain

NEW THE WORLD OF GLASS, St Helens Monday 22 April Discover the amazing history of glass and how our lives wouldn’t be the same without it. Watch live glass blowing demonstrations, experience the stunning special effects film show, visit the extensive galleries and explore the underground tunnels beneath the Victorian Cone House – home to the world’s first continuous glass production tank. Objects from the collections include paintings, sculptures, contemporary and ancient glass, clothing and textiles. We enjoy refreshments and lunch plus a guided tour and guide book to make the most of this fascinating museum. Includes refreshments, lunch, guided tour and guide book.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £49.50 Concession £48.50 Child £46.50

© Alexander P Kapp

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ROYAL RESIDENCES EXCURSION

BUCKINGHAM PALACE WITH LUNCH & THAMES CRUISE Monday 12 August, Saturday 17 August, Thursday 22 August, Wednesday 28 August & Tuesday 3 September This fascinating Buckingham Palace tour includes the world famous Green Drawing Room, Throne Room, Picture Gallery and the magnificent Ballroom. At the heart of this year’s exhibition will be Her Majesty’s Coronation Dress and a display of dress and uniforms worn by other Members of the Royal Family. Works of art connected with the Coronation will be brought together for the first time since 1953. We include lunch and a cruise on the Thames. Includes admission to Buckingham Palace, lunch and Thames cruise.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 5.30pm Return Henley: 9.00pm Adult £76.50 Concession £75.50 Child £65.50

NEW FROGMORE HOUSE & SAVILL GARDEN, Windsor Wednesday 4 September Frogmore is especially linked with Queen Charlotte, wife of George 111 and their love of art and botany is reflected throughout the interiors. The Duchess of Kent lived at Frogmore for over 20 years and her daughter Queen Victoria was a regular visitor. Our guided tour brings the house to life and concludes in The Britannia Room, where a selection of items reflects the interior of the much loved vessel. We transfer to The Savill Garden where there is time for lunch and a chance to explore what is considered to be one of the finest gardens within Windsor Great Park. Included admission and guided tour of Frogmore and admission to Savill Garden.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Arrive Henley: 6.30pm Adult £51.50 Concession £50.50 Child £50.50

HAMPTON COURT PALACE, Surrey

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 8.00pm Adult £48.50 Concession £47.50 Child £38.50

Tuesday 18 June & Tuesday 10 September The magnificent red brick Tudor Palace was built by Cardinal Wolsey in 1520 and is involved with 500 years of royal history. Our visit includes Henry VIII’s State Apartments, containing exquisite tapestries, the Chapel Royal with the country’s most resplendent Tudor ceiling and the Tudor Kitchens where you’ll find a roaring log fire, boiling cauldrons and Tudor delicacies on display. The new exhibition this year is Secrets of the Royal Bedchamber which will reveal the extraordinary rituals of the Stuart & Hanoverian court and will feature seven of the most rare and magnificent State Beds. The landscaped grounds include the famous Maze and you can admire the magnificent wine fountain. Includes admission. NEW HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT, Westminster Tuesday 20 August & Wednesday 11 September We arrive in London with free time for lunch before our visit to the ‘Cradle of Democracy’. On arrival at the Sovereign’s Entrance, we are met by our guide and proceed up the stairs used by the Queen for the State Opening of Parliament. During the 75-minute tour you will see the Queen’s Robing Room, the Royal Gallery and the Chamber of the House of Lords. Then, through the Central Lobby into the House of Commons and Westminster Hall. Includes admission and tour.

© Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2012

© Flickr – lostajy

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 5.30pm Return Henley: 9.00pm Adult £51.50 Concession £50.50 Child £43.50

Depart Henley: 7.30am KENSINGTON PALACE, London Wednesday 12 June Arrive destination: Recently re-opened following a £12 million transformation, there are new 11.00am gardens, shop, café and terrace to explore, plus four redesigned visitor Depart destination: routes revealing the secret and public lives of the inhabitants of the 5.00pm Palace. We will explore Queen Victoria’s reign, where we experience her first day as Queen, her romance with Prince Albert, moments of family life Return Henley: 8.00pm and more. Discover the King’s State Apartments and follow in the footsteps Adult £49.50 of visitors to the court of George I and II. Wonder at the Luminous Lace, Concession £46.50 an amazing light piece at the centre of the palace which contains nearly Child £36.50 12,000 Swarovski crystals. Includes admission.

OVER 195 DIFFERENT LOCATIONS TO CHOOSE FROM!

© Flickr – az1172

© Historic Royal Palaces

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ROYAL RESIDENCES EXCURSION

KEW PALACE & ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS, Surrey Monday 8 July The Royal Botanic Gardens cover 300 acres and contain more than 100,000 species of plants. There are six wonderful glass and green houses, spectacular gardens surrounded by lawns, fantastic trees and a tree top walkway for a bird’s-eye view. Kew Palace was the family home of King George III and Queen Charlotte between 1800 and 1818. We include a ticket for the Kew Explorer ‘hop-on hop-off’ land train which will enable you to explore at your leisure. Includes admission to Palace and Gardens and ticket for Kew Explorer land train.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 8.00pm Adult £54.50 Concession £53.50 Child £40.50

© WordPress.com

THE ROYAL MEWS WITH COVENT GARDEN Tuesday 6 August We begin with a unique insight into the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace, one of the finest working stables in existence and home to the horses that play an important role in the Queen’s official and ceremonial duties. The State vehicles include horse-drawn carriages and motor cars, used for coronations, State Visits, royal weddings, the State Opening of Parliament and official engagements, along with the Gold State Coach. We also include free time in atmospheric Covent Garden. Includes admission and audio tour.

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 8.30pm Adult £37.50 Concession £36.50 Child £34.50

© 2010 Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

SANDRINGHAM HOUSE, Norfolk Wednesday 17 July Sandringham House, the private country retreat of Her Majesty The Queen, was built in 1870 for King Edward VII. The principal ground floor apartments have collections of porcelain, jade, furniture and family portraits. Sixty acres of glorious grounds, described as the finest of the Royal gardens, surround the House and offer beauty and colour throughout the seasons. Sandringham Museum contains fascinating displays of Royal memorabilia. Includes admission.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 12.00pm Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 8.30pm Adult £43.50 Concession £42.50 Child £39.50

© Flickr – Karen Roe

TOWER OF LONDON Monday 13 May The Tower is home to the dazzling Crown Jewels, including the Imperial State Crown with its 2,868 diamonds and centuries of remarkable stories. Learn about the many prisoners held here, some in comfort and others less so! The ravens are one of the Tower’s most famous sights and legend has it that Charles II believed that if the ravens were ever to leave the tower, the palace and the kingdom would fall. New at the Tower this year is the Mint Street Experience which will tell the history of the Royal Mint which was situated at the Tower for over 500 years. Includes admission.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 12.30pm Depart destination: 5.30pm Return Henley: 9.00pm Adult £51.50 Concession £50.50 Child £47.50

© Historic Royal Palaces

WINDSOR CASTLE Friday 19 July For 900 years, Windsor Castle has been continuously inhabited and has been improved and restored by successive monarchs. Its prime role is that of official residence of the Queen. Our visit to the Castle and State Apartments includes the intimate rooms of Charles II apartments and the vast area of the Waterloo Chamber, encompassing St George’s Hall, The Grand Reception Room and the Lantern Lobby. All are furnished with major paintings and artworks from the Royal Collection, along with a special exhibition for this year. The Queen: Portrait of a Monarch which presents a selection of official, commissioned and informal portraits from her 60-year reign. We also include free time in Windsor. Includes admission. © www.windsor.gov.uk

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RESERVED SEATING ON ALL EXCURSIONS

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £48.50 Concession £47.50 Child £37.50


TOWN & CITY TOURS EXCURSION

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 9.30am CHESTER WITH CANAL CRUISE Arrive destination: Sunday 18 August 12.00pm This ancient Roman strongpoint retains the main streets of Depart destination: the old fort but is now lined with splendid modern shops. 5.30pm Be sure to visit the medieval, two-tiered ‘Rows’ shopping Return Henley: 8.00pm galleries, the lovely 1,000 year old cathedral and take time Adult £44.50 to stroll around the atmospheric city walls. We enjoy a Concession £43.50 cruise on the Shropshire Union Canal with high tea and Child £39.50 commentary, and see otherwise hidden Roman parts of the city. Includes canal cruise and afternoon tea. © Marketing Cheshire – INGENIOUS

Depart Henley: 8.00am HARROGATE, North Yorkshire Arrive destination: Saturday 25 May 11.30am The town’s graceful architecture and sense of elegance Depart destination: are the legacy of a famous spa heritage. Today, it has a 4.30pm cosmopolitan atmosphere, relaxing coffee shops and Return Henley: 8.00pm restaurants as well as art galleries. Be sure to visit the Adult £34.50 celebrated Betty’s tearoom which was established in Harrogate in 1919 or visit the Turkish Baths now restored to Concession £33.50 Child £30.50 their former glory and first opened in 1897. For those who love to shop, there is a treasure trove of fashionable boutiques and antique shops. © Harrogate International Centre

LIVERPOOL & RIVER TRIP Saturday 18 May Liverpool was Europe’s Capital of Culture in 2008. The city and the Albert Dock area offer an interesting array of waterfront shops, cafes and museums, together with many reminders of its past. The Tate Gallery, Maritime Museum and the ‘Beatles Story’, a shrine to the legendary pop group, are all found here. We take an interesting trip on the River Mersey to see the city from a different angle. Includes boat trip.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 5.30pm Return Henley: 8.30pm Adult £40.50 Concession £39.50 Child £33.50 © www.VisitLiverpool.com

LONDON EYE WITH AFTERNOON TEA & THAMES CRUISE Friday 2 August Enjoy the unforgettable experience and breathtaking views from the London Eye before we board a Thames cruiser. We pass many well-known landmarks along the way, such as St Paul’s Cathedral, Shakespeare’s Globe, HMS Belfast and the Tower of London. We enjoy afternoon tea while on board. Includes ticket for London Eye and Thames afternoon tea cruise.

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 9.00pm Adult £75.50 Concession £71.50 Child £63.50 © Flickr – gterez © Flickr – Photo_Robson

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.45am We spend a little free time in Gunwharf Quays to enjoy the Depart destination: many attractions this attractive waterfront has to offer 4.30pm before our visit to the Spinnaker Tower in the afternoon. Return Henley: 7.45pm This elegant viewing tower stands over one of the most fascinating seascapes with panoramic views of Portsmouth Adult £46.50 Harbour, the south coast and the Isle of Wight. We indulge Concession £45.50 Child £43.50 in a delicious Hampshire tea while we admire the view. Includes admission and tea. NEW PORTSMOUTH, SPINNAKER TOWER & HAMPSHIRE TEA Wednesday 22 May

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TOWN & CITY TOURS EXCURSION

SALISBURY & STONEHENGE (EH), Wiltshire Friday 4 October The historic city of Salisbury is dominated by a magnificent medieval cathedral. The pleasant blend of history, together with a wealth of elegant black and white timbered buildings, combine to make the city a joy to explore. As a vibrant regional centre, the city also has a modern shopping precinct. We visit the historic site of Stonehenge, dating back some 5,000 years. Includes admission to Stonehenge. Reduction for National Trust and English Heritage members.

© Flickr – yellow book

© Transport for London Press Images

SPECIAL SHREWSBURY, Shropshire Monday 7 October Almost an island caught in a meandering loop of the River Severn, Shrewsbury has around 1,000 years of history and over 600 listed buildings including several examples of timber framing from the 15th and 16th century, laid out in a medieval street pattern. You can still see traces of medieval Shrewsbury in the maze of narrow streets with funny names in the centre of town: Milk Street, Fish Street, Butcher Row and Grope Lane. Don’t forget to visit the Square; the focal point of Shrewsbury where you will find the handsome and unmissable Old Market Hall, built in 1596 for the Drapers Guild. For those more interested in shopping, there is a host of interesting independent shops that so many towns appear to have lost, together with cafés and restaurants.

Depart Henley: 9.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 5.30pm Adult £24.50 Concession £24.50 Child £21.50

NEW THE LIGHT & DARK TOUR ON THE THAMES CABLE CAR, London Friday 18 October

Depart Henley: 9.30am Arrive destination: 1.00pm Depart destination: 7.00pm Return Henley: 10.30pm Adult £72.50 Concession £71.50 Child £70.50

This entertaining day begins with a carvery lunch before we take our daylight cable car flight to enjoy a 360-degree view of the City, historic Greenwich, and the Olympic Stadium and many other famous landmarks. We then board our coach for a guided tour to view the capital from a different viewpoint including a drive along the Mall to Buckingham Palace. We return to the cable car and there is time for refreshments before our second flight, this time in the dark to see London illuminated. A day with a difference! Includes lunch, full guided tour of London and two cable car flights. NEW WINDSOR Saturday 11 May Windsor is a town full of history and charm as you will discover when you visit. The town is of course dominated by Windsor Castle which is over 900 years old and the largest inhabited castle in the world. If you decide to visit make sure you see Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, designed by famous architect Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1924. Don’t miss The Guildhall, Market Cross House & Britain’s shortest street or perhaps take a trip on the river. For a different viewpoint try a tour on the open top bus which has interesting commentary, you might even learn something the locals don’t know! Windsor also has an excellent choice of shops and the town centre has department stores, high street names, a great many specialist shops and a Saturday Market.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £34.50 Concession £33.50 Child £29.50

YORK WITH ‘OPEN TOP’ BUS TOUR Saturday 4 May

Depart Henley: 7.00am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 8.30pm Adult £44.50 Concession £43.50 Child £38.50

The city’s history is written in its streets. Four medieval gates lead in through walls built on Roman foundations that encircle the city for 3 miles. Add to this the famous Castle and Railway Museums, Jorvik Centre, narrow medieval streets, a first class shopping area and of course the beautiful Minster –York has something for everyone. We include a ticket for the sightseeing tour on an ‘open top’ bus for a flexible way to see the sights. Ticket included for open top bus. © www.visityork.org

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DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 8.15am Arrive destination: 11.15am Depart destination: 4.45pm Return Henley: 7.45pm Adult £41.50 Concession £40.50 Child £36.50

GREAT DAYS OUT… FROM APRIL TO OCTOBER!


SCENIC COUNTRYSIDE TOURS EXCURSION

DEPARTURES / PRICING

CARDIFF – PIT TO PORT TOUR Wednesday 15 May Our guide will meet us in Pontypridd before we drive through the Rhondda Valleys and take the highest public mountain pass road in Wales to climb over the Bwlch Mountain before dropping down into the beautiful Afan Valley to wind our way past Pontrhydyfen. There is free time in Swansea for lunch before a delightful drive through the Vale of Glamorgan on our return to Henley. Includes Guide.

Depart Henley: 7.00am Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £44.50 Concession £43.50 Child £41.50

© Flickr – Tracey & Doug

SPECIAL CIRENCESTER & THE COTSWOLDS Friday 19 April We travel first to the Roman town of Cirencester, the ‘capital’ of the Cotswolds, with the opportunity to explore the historic town centre, wander around the Friday market and obtain lunch. Our return journey is through the Cotswolds, making a short stop in the lovely old town of Burford on the River Windrush.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 6.00pm Adult £24.50 Concession £24.50 Child £21.50 © Flickr – BazzaDaRambler

THE COTSWOLDS WITH A BLUE BADGE GUIDE Depart Henley: 9.30am Tuesday 9 April Return Henley: Our Blue Badge Guide will take you on a journey exploring 5.30pm the northern part of the Cotwolds, passing through Adult £32.50 Moreton-in-Marsh, Stow-on-the-Wold, Burford, Broadway and Chipping Campden, along with lesser visited locations. Concession £31.50 There is time for lunch at Bourton on the Water, the ‘Venice Child £24.50 of The Cotswolds’. Enjoy the sights, views and fascinating commentary. Includes blue badge guided tour. © Flickr – jodastephen

NEW DERBYSHIRE & THE PEAK DISTRICT Tuesday 16 July After entering the Peak District we make our first stop at the pretty town of Bakewell. Set in an enviable location on the banks of the Wye, with the river meandering gently through the centre, this beautiful old market town is surrounded by stunning countryside and of course is famous for its Puddings. There is plenty of time to try one while you explore. In the afternoon we continue through this stunning landscape as we negotiate the impressive Snake Pass and through Glossop with its delightful stone houses. We continue to Buxton, home to the famous opera house and the Pavilion Gardens. We make a stop here before we head home.

Depart Henley: 9.00am Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £32.50 Concession £31.50 Child £29.50

EXMOOR – WHERE THE MOORS MEET THE SEA Friday 31 May

Depart Henley: 7.00am Return Henley: 8.30pm Adult £34.50 Concession £33.50 Child £26.50

© Roger Butterfield

Exmoor is a serenely exquisite expanse of rolling moorland, scattered with deep wooded valleys, abundant wildlife and picturesque villages. We take in the soaring coastal cliff road, the stunningly beautiful Valley of the Rocks and the harbourside bustle of Lynmouth. Look out for the famous ponies as we head past Watersmeet and through Simonsbath.

© Flickr – me’nthedogs

ALL PRICES INCLUDE ADMISSION CHARGES

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SCENIC COUNTRYSIDE TOURS EXCURSION

HEREFORDSHIRE BLACK & WHITE VILLAGES WITH BLUE BADGE GUIDED TOUR Friday 27 September Discover the charm of the picturesque black and white villages of Herefordshire with their timber-framed buildings, including impressive Weobley and pretty Penbridge with its detached wooden belfry. There will also be a stop in Hereford, giving you the opportunity to visit Hereford Cathedral, with its Mappa Mundi and rare Chained Library. Includes blue badge guided tour.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 9.00am Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £36.50 Concession £35.50 Child £30.50

© Jonathan Billinger

LAKE DISTRICT & ULLSWATER CRUISE Friday 5 July Arriving in the Lakes, we visit the lakeside resort of Bowness-onWindermeres where we spend a relaxing few hours in this idyllic spot before heading through the rugged splendour of the Kirkstone Pass to Glenridding. We board a converted 19th century steamer to sail the length of this beautiful lake in the Lake District National Park, where the scenery is both varied and spectacular. Includes Ullswater cruise.

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 12.00pm Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 9.00pm Adult £45.50 Concession £44.50 Child £39.50

© Flickr – Tomorrow Never Knows

‘LAST OF THE SUMMER WINE’ COUNTRY WITH GUIDED MINIBUS TOUR Friday 26 July Our day embraces the beautiful scenery of the Pennines, familiar to many as the setting for ‘Last of the Summer Wine’. Upon arrival in Holmfirth, home of ‘Compo’, ‘Clegg’ and ‘Foggy’ there is free time to enjoy lunch before a guided minibus tour, seeing many of the favourite haunts. Afterwards, our route takes us across the edge of the Peak District, making a short stop before heading for home. Includes guided minibus tour.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £41.50 Concession £40.50 Child £37.50

© Flickr – Alan Stanton

NORFOLK LAVENDER FIELDS Tuesday 2 July In August the fields around Heacham are a blaze of purple. We visit Norfolk Lavender and take a conducted tour through the expansive, blooming fields. We visit the tea room for sandwiches and tea/coffee, with time to see the gift shops, rose garden, herb garden and plant areas. After our time amid the lavender we travel to the nearby attractive Victorian resort of Hunstanton, the only westfacing resort on the east coast of Britain! Includes admission, sandwiches and tea/coffee.

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 8.30pm Adult £43.50 Concession £42.50 Child £35.50

© Flickr – Martin Pettitt

NEW RUTLAND – ENGLAND’S ‘LITTLE COUNTY’ Thursday 12 September Rutland is England’s smallest county but there is plenty to see, including of course Rutland Water, one of the most important wildfowl reserves in Great Britain. We begin our day with a visit to Uppingham, where the traditional buildings reflect the unspoilt nature of the town including the historic market place which dates back to the 13th century. We continue our journey and visit Stamford, widely regarded as one of the finest stone towns in England. We complete our tour in Oakham, the county town of Rutland which was mentioned in the Doomsday Book and where there are many beautiful buildings including a magnificent parish church, a castle and a museum. © dennis smith

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SAVE MORE – JOIN OUR ‘SEEMORE’ LOYALTY CLUB

Depart Henley: 09.15am Return Henley: 6.45pm Adult £31.50 Concession £30.50 Child £29.50


SCENIC COUNTRYSIDE TOURS EXCURSION

SCARECROW FESTIVAL & THE YORKSHIRE DALES Saturday 10 August Kettlewell is a delightful village in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales and is home to a charming annual Scarecrow Festival. The scarecrows are designed by local residents and over 100 of them appear in gardens, open spaces, hidden corners and even on rooftops! For a small fee, why not join take part in the ‘Scarecrow Trail’.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 7.30pm Adult £31.50 Concession £30.50 Child £24.50 © Flickr – gavinandrewstewart

NEW SCENIC GUIDED TOUR OF THE GOWER Sunday 8 September We drive along the coastline of Swansea Bay to Mumbles, continuing along the Gower south coast to Rhossili Bay where we make a stop for sightseeing and lunch. We continue our drive along the coastline of North Gower returning to Swansea via Gowerton & Uplands. Enjoy a lively commentary throughout with local stories and points of interest. Includes on board guide.

Depart Henley: 7.00am Return Henley: 7.30am Adult £42.50 Concession £41.50 Child £39.50

© Flickr – Nigel’s Europe

SCENIC SNOWDONIA & PORTMEIRION Friday 3 May A day of unparalleled beauty combined with the wonderful Italianate architecture of Portmeirion. This famous village where ‘The Prisoner’ was filmed is our ultimate destination. The scenic splendour of lakes and mountains accompany us on our journey; we return via the beautiful valley of Nant Gwynant with views of Snowdon and Betwysy-Coed, where we break our journey home. Includes admission to Portmeirion.

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 8.00pm Adult £43.50 Concession £42.50 Child £35.50 © Visit Wales

SCENIC COTSWOLDS WITH AFTERNOON TEA Friday 10 May We take in some of the best scenery and pretty villages of the Cotswolds as we travel to the historic town of Cirencester, where there is time to explore and to have lunch. Perhaps visit the Corinium Museum to learn about the history of the Cotswolds an admire the exhibits. We continue to a picturesque Cotswolds hotel, where we enjoy a delicious afternoon tea. Includes afternoon tea.

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £31.50 Concession £30.50 Child £24.50 © Flickr – Charles D P Miller

YORKSHIRE DALES SCENIC GUIDED TOUR Tuesday 30 April Bubbling becks, plunging falls and rolling hills combine with narrow twisting lanes, unspoilt villages, meadows and dry stone walls to create the unique Yorkshire Dales atmosphere. Our Blue Badge guide brings the history of the area to life as we drift through sublime scenery; we visit the gorgeous little village of Settle and see the impressive Ribblehead Viaduct with its 24 arches. Our final visit is to the Dales’ capital of Hawes at the head of Wensleydale. Includes blue badge guided tour.

Depart Henley: 7.30am Return Henley: 8.30pm Adult £40.50 Concession £39.50 Child £36.50

© Flickr – Dave_S.

Club Class

LUXURY ‘CLUB CLASS’ COACHES ON ALL EXCURSIONS

Club Class

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DAYS AT THE SEASIDE EXCURSION

ABERYSTWYTH, West Wales Wednesday 4 September Situated on the beautiful sweep of Cardigan Bay, Aberystwyth is one of Wales’ favourite traditional resorts. The attractive seafront boasts many Victorian and Edwardian buildings and the atmospheric promenade offers various attractions and views of the surrounding hills and mountains.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 8.30pm Adult £33.50 Concession £32.50 Child £27.50

© Visit Wales

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: With seven miles of golden sands and sparkling 11.30am waters, Bournemouth is one of the south coast’s most popular seaside resorts. There is no shortage of Depart destination: things to see and do, including a fine pier, attractive 5.00pm Arrive Henley: 8.30pm promenade, a variety of shops and restaurants and not forgetting award-winning parks and gardens. Adult £37.50 More unusual attractions include the Bournemouth Concession £36.50 Eye, a helium filled balloon which rises to a height Child £31.50 of 390ft and provides a panoramic view of the surrounding area or The Oceanarium, an underwater adventure with hundreds of different species from around the world.

BOURNEMOUTH, Dorset Saturday 8 June

© 2012 Bournemouth Tourism

BRIGHTON, East Sussex Friday 20 September Stylish Brighton has all the ingredients for seaside fun, from the bustling Palace Pier to a stroll along the prom. Admire the aquatic creatures at the Sea Life Centre or relax on the beach. There is also the impressive Royal Pavilion and the boutiques and antiques shops of the quaint Lanes as well as a range of modern stores.

Depart Henley: 07.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 9.00pm Adult £34.50 Concession £33.50 Child £28.50

© Visit Brighton

CROMER, Norfolk Monday 2 September With its wide open beaches, spectacular cliffs, famous pier show and interesting museum, Cromer is one of Norfolk’s most attractive seaside resorts. Beautiful landscaped cliff gardens, which bloom with colour during the summer months, overlook vast stretches of unspoilt beach. There are many attractions to enjoy, yet the resort has a relaxing atmosphere and still retains an air of Victorian and Edwardian charm with little streets filled with interesting shops and plenty of places to enjoy the famous Cromer crab

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 9.00pm Adult £32.50 Concession £31.50 Child £26.50

© Flickr – ritesh3

EASTBOURNE, East Sussex Monday 29 July Eastbourne is the perfect location for a relaxing day at the seaside. Enjoy the leisurely atmosphere and perhaps visit attractions such as the ‘How We Lived Then’ Museum, The Redoubt Fortress & Military Museum, or simply stroll and try to spot some of the many blue plaques in the town, giving a clue to some of its most famous residents. ©Eastbourne Tourism

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GREAT DAYS OUT… FROM APRIL TO OCTOBER!

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 9.00pm Adult £37.50 Concession £36.50 Child £31.50


DAYS AT THE SEASIDE EXCURSION

DEPARTURES / PRICING

LLANDUDNO, North Wales Saturday 29 June Llandudno is the largest resort in Wales and boasts a unique location. Lying between the western Great Orme and eastern Little Orme are two beautiful beaches, the award winning north shore and the sand dunned west shore. There is plenty to keep you entertained, why not stroll along the longest pier in Wales or shop in the resorts Victorian centre.

SCARBOROUGH, North Yorkshire Saturday 15 June Scarborough was Britain’s first seaside resort and has been welcoming visitors for over 360 years. It’s overlooked by the historic Scarborough Castle and has first class attractions such as the award winning Sea Life & Marine Sanctuary, the Open Air Theatre, Art Gallery and the refurbished Rotunda Museum. There are also award winning beaches to enjoy.

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 5.00pm Arrive Henley: 8.30pm Adult £37.50 Concession £36.50 Child £31.50 © Flickr – dullhunk

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.45am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 9.15pm Adult £31.50 Concession £30.50 Child £25.50 © Tim Redman

SIDMOUTH, Devon Tuesday 24 September Unspoilt, unhurried, and a great favourite. Sidmouth is a small, charming and elegant resort with a level promenade, interesting shops and colourful floral displays. To round off your visit we include a cream tea at one our favourite hotels, The Kingswood & Devoran. Includes cream tea.

SOUTHPORT, Merseyside Thursday 18 July Southwold is a small, charming resort which enjoys a lovely position on the Suffolk Heritage Coast. Despite the Great Fire of 1659, which destroyed a great deal of Southwold the town contains many buildings of interest including the impressive St. Edmund’s Church, and the Southwold Museum. These are worth a visit as are the iconic beach huts for which Southwold is famous. With a safe, sandy beach, working lighthouse, beach huts, (remove) an award-winning pier and a busy harbour, Southwold is a quintessentially English resort.

Depart Henley: 7.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 9.00pm Adult £38.50 Concession £37.50 Child £32.50 Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 8.00pm Adult £37.50 Concession £36.50 Child £31.50

© Southport Tourism

SOUTHWOLD, Suffolk Friday 28 June Southwold is a small, charming resort which enjoys a lovely position on the Suffolk Heritage Coast. Despite the Great Fire of 1659, which destroyed a great deal of Southwold the town contains many buildings of interest including the impressive St. Edmund’s Church, and the Southwold Museum. These are worth a visit as are the iconic beach huts for which Southwold is famous. With a safe, sandy beach, working lighthouse, beach huts, (remove) an award-winning pier and a busy harbour, Southwold is a quintessentially English resort.

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 12.00pm Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 9.30pm Adult £37.50 Concession £36.50 Child £31.50

© KevinScottNL at en.wikipedia

ALL PRICES INCLUDE ADMISSION CHARGES

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DAYS AT THE SEASIDE EXCURSION

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 7.30am NEW SWANAGE, Dorset Arrive destination: Wednesday 3 July 11.30am This attractive and friendly resort is the gem of Depart destination: Dorset’s Purbeck Coast and is set in a picturesque, 5.00pm gently curving bay. Flanked by impressive chalk cliffs, Return Henley: 8.30pm the town offers an impressive award winning beach, Adult £37.50 a flat promenade and a small but interesting Concession £36.50 shopping area. Child £31.50 © Flickr – HerryLawford

TENBY, Pembrokeshire Saturday 3 August Tenby is a delightful little harbour town and seaside resort, and it would be difficult to find a setting more picturesque. The original town of Tenby, called Dinbych y Pysgod in Welsh or “little town of fishes”, was established by The Normans and most of the old town walls remain, enclosing the medieval town behind them. Tenby’s quaint, narrow streets, full of interesting little shops, lead to the picturesque harbour. From here take trip to Caldey Island, home to a working Monastery or just enjoy the miles of golden, sandy beaches.

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 12.00pm Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 9.30pm Adult £34.50 Concession £33.50 Child £28.50

© Flickr – katherineprice

WESTON-SUPER-MARE, Avon Monday 27 May, Sunday 23 June & Monday 26 August Situated on the Bristol Channel, Weston Super Mare is a traditional resort with a spacious, level promenade and attractive parks. Revisit your childhood as you take a stroll along the Grand Pier and enjoy the atmosphere and the entertainment on offer.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 8.00pm Adult £32.50 Concession £31.50 Child £26.50

© WordPress.com

WEYMOUTH, Dorset Monday 20 May The great sweep of Weymouth Bay encompasses a superb vista of land and sea. The views from the bay are spectacular, stretching across the horizon taking in the World Heritage Jurassic Coastline. Weymouth’s fine Georgian seafront is an impressive backdrop to the ‘Blue Flag’ award-winning beaches and the seafront is connected by over three miles of level promenade which provides access to the beach, the historic, picturesque harbour and a traffic-free shopping centre.

WHITBY, North Yorkshire Wednesday 24 July & Sunday 25 August Whitby’s skyline is dominated by the cliff-top ruins of St. Hilda’s Abbey. This traditional maritime town, with its old cobbled streets and alleyways which run down to the bustling quayside, picturesque houses and award winning beach, is the perfect place to spend the day. Visit the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, the Whitby Museum or the Dracula Experience, or perhaps treat yourself to some Whitby Jet.

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Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 9.00pm Adult £36.50 Concession £35.50 Child £30.50

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 12.00pm Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 9.00pm Adult £37.50 Concession £36.50 Child £31.50

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BOATS & CRUISING EXCURSION

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 9.30am BRECON CANAL CRUISE Friday 7 June Arrive destination: In the morning we make a stop in Brecon before we spend a peaceful 12.00pm few hours cruising through the beautiful scenery and wildlife of the Brecon Beacons National Park along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Depart destination: 4.45pm canal. This historical waterway was built before roads and railways, dating back some 200 years, cruise through a canal lock and over an Return Henley: 7.15pm aqueduct carrying the canal over the River Usk. Enjoy a cream tea on Adult £42.50 board. Includes cruise and cream tea. Concession £41.50 Child £39.50 Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: We explore an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on board our 10.00am coach, with the help of a Blue Badge guide. There will be an array of colours on view, along with mention of witches, the Rothschild family Depart destination: 5.00pm and the Great Train Robbery. We travel to Ivinghoe Beacon, where it Return Henley: 7.00pm is said that on a clear day, you can see seven counties. After time for lunch, we travel along the Grand Union Canal at a sedate pace Adult £50.50 on board our boat, the ‘Princess of the Chilterns’. During our 3 hour Concession £49.50 cruise, we enjoy a cream tea and commentary. Includes guided Child £43.50 countryside tour, canal cruise and cream tea.

CRUISING IN THE CHILTERNS Wednesday 21 August

HENLEY ON THAMES RIVER CRUISE Monday 22 July We travel to picturesque Henley-on-Thames, with free time to explore this picturesque town or perhaps visit the River & Rowing Museum. The main street has many Georgian frontages covering older buildings and among the 300 buildings within the town designated of special architectural are St Mary’s church, the town hall, market place and Henley Bridge. We board our boat for a relaxing Thames river cruise and experience a scenic voyage of history, heritage and river lore. We enjoy refreshments and interesting live commentary from a Blue Badge Guide. Includes Thames boat cruise and refreshments on board.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.15pm Return Henley: 6.45pm Adult £44.50 Concession £43.50 Child £38.50 © Flickr – Jos Dielis

LLANGOLLEN ‘THOMAS TELFORD’ CANAL CRUISE Tuesday 16 July & Wednesday 14 August On arrival in Llangollen, there is time to explore and obtain lunch before a two hour cruise on the motorised narrow boat ‘Thomas Telford’. We pass through the beautiful Vale of Llangollen and across the famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct to Froncysyllte as we journey along the ‘Stream in the Sky’. The country’s biggest navigable aqueduct towers a massive 126ft above the River Dee supported by 18 stone piers with water fed from the river at the Horseshoe Falls near Llangollen. Includes one-way canal cruise.

LLANGOLLEN HORSE DRAWN BOAT TRIP, North Wales Friday 14 June Llangollen became important because of its prominent position on the main London to Holyhead coaching road which was improved by Thomas Telford in 1815. The Canal was also constructed around this time and brought considerable changes to Llangollen during the early part of the 19th century. Parts of this canal have now been designated as a World Heritage Site. There is time to explore a little and have lunch before we join our narrow boat for a two hour trip along the canal which carries us through the beautiful Vale of Llangollen. Sit back and relax as the horse drawn boat glides silently through the Welsh mountains. Includes horse drawn boat cruise.

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £39.50 Concession £38.50 Child £34.50

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £42.50 Concession £41.50 Child £39.50

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BOATS & CRUISING EXCURSION

NEW LUNE AQUEDUCT EXPERIENCE, Lancaster Wednesday 8 May A day of history, heritage and culture: We meet our guide at Barton Grange Garden Centre where we make a short stop before we depart for Brockholes, a beautiful nature reserve created for a variety of different wildlife. There is time for lunch and shopping here before continuing our tour, including the The Forest of Bowland, a landscape rich in heritage and designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We then board our boat, the Kingfisher for the highlight of the day as we cruise along the Lune Aqueduct, a masterpiece of civil engineering as it carries the canal 60feet above the River Lune. Includes refreshments, guided coach tour and cruise.

MANCHESTER SHIP CANAL CRUISE

Depart Henley: 7.00am Arrive destination: 9.45am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 6.45pm Adult £64.50 Concession £63.50 Child £57.50

Tuesday 9 July & Monday 9 September A truly memorable journey along the 35-mile stretch of canal. Our cruise includes a lively commentary giving a revealing insight into the facts, history and dramas of one of Britain’s major waterways. During our six hour cruise, we take in spectacular scenery, giving an awe-inspiring sense of how the canal’s construction shaped the city of Manchester and the North West of England. Refreshments available on board (not included). Includes canal cruise.

OXFORD TO ABINGDON CRUISE Monday 1 July

© merseytravel.gov

Explore the historic town of Oxford, The City of Dreaming Spires which is famous the world over for its University and place in history, home to royalty and scholars. Buildings in Oxford demonstrate an example of every English architectural period since the arrival of the Saxons. You will be spoilt for choice on how to spend your time before we board our cruise which takes us along the River Thames to the picturesque market town of Abingdon. We pass through beautiful countryside – highlights include the Oxford University intercollegiate regatta course and magnificent Nuneham House. Includes cruise.

© 2010 Salters Steamers

RIVER DEE CRUISE, Cheshire Friday 30 August Today we head to Chester where there is time to explore this Roman settlement. Chester is arguably the richest city in Britain for archaeological and architectural treasures preserved to this day from the time of the Roman occupation. Perhaps take a look at The Rows, a continuous line of balconies and with shops at street and first-floor levels which have been existence in the 14th century and are unique to Chester. After lunch we board the boat for a 2 hour cruise. This superb cruise passes Heron Bridge and Eccleston Ferry, through the meandering crook of the Dee and ‘Eaton Estate’ before reaches the spectacular sight of the Iron Bridge, before returning to Chester. Includes cruise.

© Marketing Cheshire

WYE VALLEY CRUISE Wednesday 26 June Spend the morning in the historic town of Ross on Wye with its impressive 17th century market hall and Tudor timbered houses, with the opportunity to obtain lunch. We join our cruise on the River Wye and learn about the surrounding countryside from the knowledgeable boat master, followed by a cream tea in the nearby 16th century Old Court Manor House. Includes cruise and cream tea. © Flickr – Capt’ Gorgeous

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DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 6.00pm Return Henley: 8.30pm Adult £51.50 Concession £50.50 Child £44.50

Depart Henley: 10.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 6.00pm Adult £40.50 Concession £39.50 Child £32.50

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.45pm Return Henley: 7.15pm Adult £47.50 Concession £46.50 Child £41.50

Depart Henley: 10.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.45pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £41.50 Concession £40.50 Child £37.50

WITH 13 EXCURSION THEMES – THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!


STEAM RAILWAYS NOSTALGIA EXCURSION

ABERGAVENNY AND BRECON MOUNTAIN RAILWAY Friday 6 September We head to the bustling market town of Abergavenny with time to explore and obtain lunch. Afterwards, we travel along the ‘Heads of the Valleys’ road to Pant where we enjoy a return ride behind a vintage steam locomotive. We pass through beautiful scenery into the Brecon Beacons National Park, travelling the full length of the Taf Fechan Reservoir to Dol-y-Gaer. Includes return train ride.

HARBOUR CRUISE & AVON VALLEY RAILWAY STEAM TRAIN WITH CREAM TEA Wednesday 10 July NEW

Our day begins with a scenic boat trip around Bristol’s historic harbour. Enjoy the sights and sounds of historic landmarks including the view of Brunel’s great ship the ss Great Britain in the original dock where she was built. There is free time for lunch before we transfer to the Avon Valley railway for our return train journey through the scenic Avon Valley. Sit back and relax and enjoy a delicious cream tea on board as we cross high above the River Avon. Includes 1 hour harbour cruise, return train ride and cream tea.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £42.50 Concession £41.50 Child £34.50 Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 10.00am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £52.50 Concession £51.50 Child £49.50

NEW WARTIME IN THE COTSWOLDS Saturday 27 April Enjoy a nostalgic day on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway as the line between Cheltenham and Toddington is transformed into a bygone era. Popularly known in the War years as the Honeybourne Line, it provided connections to all parts of the country and was heavily used for freight, troop movements and moving produce from the Vale of Evesham. Board the train at Cheltenham and mingle with soldiers on leave and listen to wartime songs & melodies. Travel the line to Winchcombe and Toddington and view displays of Military & Civilian vehicles from the period and the Model Railway. Includes unlimited travel between Cheltenham & Toddington.

Depart Henley: 9.15am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 5.15pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £42.50 Concession £40.50 Child £32.50

NEW STEAMING THROUGH THE COTSWOLDS Wednesday 18 September The Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Railway recreates the Golden Age of Steam with an enchanting 25-mile round trip through the Cotswold Hills with glorious views across the Vale of Evesham. We see Toddington, Winchcombe, the Greet Tunnel and the Dixton Cutting as well as the reopened extension of the line to Cheltenham Racecourse. Here our coach is waiting to take us into Cheltenham for a few hours before returning to the station for the return journey. Includes return train ride.

Depart Henley: 9.30am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 5.30pm Adult £41.50 Concession £40.50 Child £36.50

HAWORTH AND KEIGHLEY & WORTH VALLEY RAILWAY Tuesday 11 June

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 12.00pm Depart destination: 4.15pm Return Henley: 7.45pm Adult £45.50 Concession £44.50 Child £40.50

We travel first to Haworth, a fine Yorkshire hill village with its cobbled main street, famous for its connections with the Brontë sisters. We continue to nearby Oxenhope where we join a steam hauled train on the superbly preserved Keighley & Worth Valley Railway. Enjoy a return journey through the heart of Brontë Country – throughout your journey there is lovely countryside made famous in the film classic ‘The Railway Children’. Includes return train ride.

© Flickr – helena.40proof

CHOOSE FROM 33 LOCAL BOARDING POINTS – SEE THE REAR COVER

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STEAM RAILWAYS NOSTALGIA EXCURSION

LLANGOLLEN STEAM RAILWAY Sunday 21 July The railway forms part of the old Ruabon to Barmouth Line and was reopened in 1975 at Llangollen after the branch line was closed in the 1960’s after falling victim to the closures by Dr Beeching. We join the steam train in Carrog as it embarks on a picturesque trip through the Dee Valley within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We arrive in Llangollen where there is plenty of time to explore this interesting market town known as the Gateway to North Wales before completing our journey back to Carrog where we rejoin our coach. Includes return train ride.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £43.50 Concession £42.50 Child £38.50

© Flickr – leelawrence65

LUDLOW & LLANFAIR LIGHT RAILWAY Tuesday 28 May Taking a scenic route to Ludlow, explore this lovely town with its harmonious mix of medieval, Tudor, Stuart and Georgian buildings, dominated by the 11th century castle. There is free time for lunch before we transfer to Welshpool where we board our train which ambles through picturesque and ever-changing scenery along the secluded rivers of rural Wales. We arrive in Llanfair Caereinon where there is time to stretch our legs before we board the train back to Welshpool where our coach will be waiting. Includes return train ride.

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £40.50 Concession £39.50 Child £35.50

© David Marsh

MURDER MYSTERY EVENING ON THE SEVERN VALLEY RAILWAY Saturday 8 June An evening of mystery, intrigue and suspense on the Severn Valley Railway: The 16-mile heritage line runs along the Severn Valley from Bridgnorth to Kidderminster, crossing the Shropshire/Worcestershire border, following the course of the River Severn for much of its route. Your journey of mystery and suspense begins with a delicious 3-course meal as the plot unfolds in front of your eyes. The theme of the evening is ‘Murder with a kiss’. Can you work out whodunnit?! Includes return train ride and 3-course dinner.

PEAK RAILWAY & SCENIC DERBYSHIRE Tuesday 21 May We make our way through stunning Peak District scenery to the historic town of Buxton, where we make a short stop for coffee. We continue through the majestic scenery to Bakewell where there is time to explore and have lunch and perhaps try a pudding or two! We make the short journey to the station at Rowsley, where we board a train on the nostalgic Peak Railway to enjoy more of the Derbyshire countryside. Includes return train ride.

Depart Henley: 5.15pm Arrive destination: 6.30pm Depart destination: 10.45pm Return Henley: 12.00am Adult £75.50 Concession £74.50 Child £N/A

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £32.50 Concession £31.50 Child £27.50

© Flickr – mattbuck4950

PORTMEIRION & FFESTINIOG RAILWAY Wednesday 19 June We join the Ffestiniog Railway for a memorable ride to Porthmadog on this little train, originally designed to carry slate to the port. We continue through beautiful scenery to Portmeirion, an Italianate village overlooking the shores of Cardigan Bay, where there is time for lunch and to explore the Italian style shops and houses. The classic TV series ‘The Prisoner’ was filmed here. Includes train ride and admission to Portmeirion. © Flickr – Peter G Trimming

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TRAVEL WITH JOHNSONS – TRAVEL WITH FRIENDS

Depart Henley: 7.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 8.00pm Adult £50.50 Concession £49.50 Child £44.50


STEAM RAILWAYS NOSTALGIA EXCURSION

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 7.30am SEASIDE & STEAM IN DORSET Monday 5 August Arrive destination: Take a ‘Chariot of Fire’ down to the sea. We travel on board the 11.30am steam railway that takes us past romantic Corfe Castle, through the Depart destination: Purbeck Hills and down to the sea at Swanage Bay. Attractions in Swanage include Durlston Castle Country Park, the Swanage Heritage 4.30pm Return Henley: 9.30pm Centre and a Victorian pier, as well as the large sandy beach, which is a short level walk from the station. We have a few hours to enjoy Adult £43.50 the Blue Flag beach and town then home via the Sandbanks Ferry Concession £42.50 and its spectacular views over Brownsea Island and Poole Bay. Child £38.50 Includes train ride and Sandbanks ferry. © Flickr – David Jones

SEASIDE & STEAM IN SOMERSET Saturday 27 July A delightful family day as we travel to Somerset to board the charming West Somerset Railway for a 20-mile ride, with views of the Quantock Hills and the Bristol Channel. Memories abound as we puff away to Minehead in time to obtain lunch. Minehead is where Exmoor meets the sea. Sitting on the very edge of the National Park, Minehead is ideal for lovers of the coast and the countryside. Minehead offers traditional seaside fun, with its promenade and long, sandy beach, and pebble beach near the harbour, which stretches for a mile and gives views across the Bristol Channel to Wales. The afternoon is free to enjoy this attractive seaside resort. Includes train ride.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 8.00pm Adult £45.50 Concession £44.50 Child £40.50

© Flickr – Capt’ Gorgeous

NEW SEVERN VALLEY RAILWAY, Kidderminster Monday 6 May We join one of the steam trains in Kidderminster which operates along this superbly restored branch line for a relaxing ride through the Worcestershire countryside. Look out for various stations along the way, together with lovely views of the Severn Valley. We arrive in Bridge north where there is plenty of time to explore. Includes return train ride.

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 10.00am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 6.00pm Adult £40.50 Concession £39.50 Child £37.50

SNOWDON MOUNTAIN RAILWAY Sunday 11 August

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 12.00 Depart destination: 5.30pm Return Henley: 9.30pm Adult £60.50 Concession £59.50 Child £52.50

© WordPress.com

A truly majestic mountain adventure: Snowdonia boasts dramatic landscape and scenery and we board the unique train to head to the summit of Mount Snowdon, which at 3,560ft (1,085m) is the highest mountain in England and Wales. Weather permitting, enjoy the truly spectacular views and immerse yourself in the rich myth, legend and history as you journey to the summit. Includes return train ride.

NEW VALE OF RHEIDOL RAILWAY ABERYSTWYTH Tuesday 25 June Sit back, relax and take a nostalgic journey through some of Wales’ most spectacular scenery. We travel to Aberystwyth where there is free time for lunch before we board the train and travel through wide open fields, woodland and rugged mountain scenery, climbing to a height of 700ft before arriving at Devils Bridge. The famous Mynach Falls, Jacob’s Ladder and the Devils Punchbowl are all within walking distance and There is time to explore here before we return to Aberystwyth where our coach will be waiting. Includes return train ride & Rheidol explorer audio guide.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 12.00pm Depart destination: 5.30pm Return Henley: 9.00pm Adult £48.50 Concession £47.50 Child £44.50

© www.rheidolrailway.co.uk

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GARDENS, PARKS AND FLOWER SHOWS EXCURSION

NEW BATSFORD ARBORETUM – JAPANESE FLOWERING CHERRY SPECTACULAR, Gloucestershire Friday 26 April We make a coffee stop in pretty Bourton on the Water on our way to visit Batsford. It’s blossom time in the Arboretum and you’ll find clouds of pink in every shade possible. Wander through the National collection of Japanese flowering cherry trees and the spectacular blooms of 73 species of Magnolia. There is also a Plant centre and Garden shop full of everything for the coming season. We enjoy a guided tour to make the most of this amazing display. Includes admission and guided tour.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 10.00am Arrive destination: 12.00pm Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 5.00pm Adult £32.50 Concession £31.50 Child £30.50

© Flickr – Ryan Somma

BIDDULPH GRANGE GARDEN (NT) & THE PEAK DISTRICT, Staffordshire Monday 3 June We stop in Buxton en route to this amazing Victorian garden which was created by Darwin contemporary James Bateman. The plant collection comes from all over the world – enjoy a global journey from an Italian terrace to an Egyptian pyramid, via a Himalayan glen and Chinese-inspired garden. Discover the oldest surviving golden larch in Britain and explore the Geological Gallery: as you travel through time the biblical story of creation unfolds against a backdrop of science. Includes admission. Reduction for National Trust members. Please note that there are many steps throughout the garden.

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 11.15am Depart destination: 4.15pm Return Henley: 6.00pm Adult £37.50 Concession £36.50 Child £31.50

© Graham Hogg

NEW BOWOOD HOUSE AND GARDENS, Wiltshire Sunday 19 May Bowood House, family home of the Marquis and Marchioness of Lansdowne, was built during the eighteenth century and houses fine collections of paintings, sculpture, porcelain and Victoriana. It stands within one of ‘Capability’ Brown’s most beautiful parks and his home to an important collection of Rhododendrons, a spectacular attraction offering breathtaking vistas of colour and beauty covering over 60 acres. Includes admission to the house, gardens and Rhododendron Walk.

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £46.50 Concession £45.50 Child £43.50

CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW, London Thursday 23 May

Depart Henley: 10.30am Arrive destination: 2.00pm Depart destination: 8.00pm Return Henley: 11.00pm Adult £70.50 Concession £69.50 Child £69.50

We make our way to Chelsea, arriving at the Show in the afternoon. The Royal Horticultural Society Flower Show is a fabulous pot-pourri of colour, fragrance, seasons and styles which has delighted the world’s gardeners for over 80 years. It features the latest trends and ultimate design from the cream of garden designers and is a feast for the imagination! Includes admission. © Flickr – Karen Roe

CHELSWORTH OPEN GARDENS DAY, Suffolk Sunday 30 June Chelsworth is a quintessential English village situated in the beautiful Brett valley just a few miles from Lavenham and is considered by many to be one of the prettiest in the whole of England. For over 40 years, the residents of Chelsworth have opened their wonderful private gardens to the General Public on the last Sunday in June. There are over 20 gardens to view, homemade teas, live music, plant produce stalls, food stands and tours of selected gardens; step back in time and enjoy the community spirit. Includes admission.

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SAVE MORE – JOIN OUR ‘SEEMORE’ LOYALTY CLUB

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 7.30pm Adult £32.50 Concession £31.50 Child £29.50


GARDENS, PARKS AND FLOWER SHOWS EXCURSION

CLIVEDEN (NT), Berkshire Thursday 4 July Once the home of Nancy, Lady Astor and the glittering hub of high society, this spectacular estate features a series of magnificent gardens including topiary, statuary, water gardens and a formal parterre. There are spectacular views and enchanting walks through woodland and along the least spoilt stretch of the River Thames. Includes admission and short visit to house. Reduction for National Trust members.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 8.45am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £43.50 Concession £42.50 Child £33.50 © Graham Horn

NEW GREGYNOG GARDENS & THE DINGLE (RHS), Powys Tuesday 25 June We visit Gregynog Gardens where there is a network of colour coded woodland walks around some 750 acres of different landscapes, including a Grade 1 listed formal gardens. We enjoy refreshments on arrival before we explore the gardens followed by a tasty lunch. In the afternoon we visit The Dingle, a four acre RHS garden set amongst the beautiful mid-Wales hills. A wealth of interesting and unusual plants and trees will delight and inspire experienced and amateur gardeners alike. Includes admission, refreshments and lunch at Gregynog and admission to The Dingle. Reduction for RHS members.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £49.50 Concession £48.50 Child £45.50

© Flickr – franksteiner

HAMPTON COURT INTERNATIONAL FLOWER SHOW, Surrey Thursday 11 July Britain’s gardening charity, the Royal Horticultural Society, has a long and interesting history dating from 1804. Founded under the title The Horticultural Society of London, by Sir Joseph Banks and John Wedgwood, its aim was to collect plant information and encourage the improvement of horticultural practice. Now each summer, the spacious parkland surrounding the Hampton Court Palace becomes home to the World’s largest flower show, featuring eight floral marquees and 25 beautiful show gardens. The ideal opportunity to find inspiration for your own garden. Includes admission. Reduction for RHS members.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 12.00pm Depart destination: 6.00pm Return Henley: 9.00pm Adult £58.50 Concession £57.50 Child £57.50

© 2013 The Press Association

Depart Henley: 8.30pm KEW GARDENS, Surrey Wednesday 7 August Arrive destination: Enchanting at any time of the year, enjoy the 300 acres of the Royal 11.30am Botanical Gardens at Kew in your favourite season; perhaps you prefer summer blooms or the rich shades of autumn. Once belonging Depart destination: 5.00pm to the Royal Family, the gardens contain more than 100,000 species Return Henley: 8.00pm in six wonderful glasshouses plus spectacular gardens, surrounded by lawns and fantastic trees. The restored Chinese Pagoda is worth a Adult £49.50 visit and there is a land train which, for a supplementary fare, will Concession £48.50 transport you around the gardens. Includes admission to gardens. Child £34.50 © RBG Kew

MALVERN SPRING GARDENING SHOW, Worcestershire Sunday 12 May The region’s biggest and brightest gardening show, with magnificent floral displays, courtyard gardens, floral art show and a rural craft marquee. RHS experts are on hand to give practical advice and there is a whole host of opportunities for gardeners, horticulturists and homemakers. There are plenty of refreshment facilities and picnic spots. Includes admission.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 10.00am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £44.50 Concession £43.50 Child £33.50 © 2013 The Press Association

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41


GARDENS, PARKS AND FLOWER SHOWS EXCURSION

MALVERN AUTUMN GARDENING SHOW, Worcestershire Saturday 28 September

© Flickr – amandabhslater

Malvern’s annual pageant of food, fruit, forestry and flowers gives a flavour of the countryside at its autumnal best. Enjoy the rich coloured blooms of the RHS Flower Show. Marvel at giant vegetable exhibits and relish the taste of homemade food and wine. An actionpacked programme of entertainment, classic cars, vintage machinery, animal encounters, bargain plants and country crafts complete a tremendous day out. Includes admission.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 10.00am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £43.50 Concession £42.50 Child £28.50

NEW MOTTISFONT ABBEY (NT), Hampshire Thursday 13 June We make a stop in the delightful town of Winchester before our visit to Mottisfont in the afternoon. Set in glorious grounds alongside the fast-flowing River Test, Mottisfont offers many layers of history for the visitor to explore, including the Gothic remains of the original 13th-century Augustinian priory.Ancient trees, bubbling brooks and rolling lawns frame this lovely old house and the walled gardens house the national collection of old-fashioned roses. The gardens are a delight of colour and fragrance all year round. Includes admission. Reduction for National Trust members.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.15am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 6.45pm Adult £43.50 Concession £42.50 Child £39.50

NEW NEWPORT RSPB WETLANDS NATURE RESERVE Wednesday 10 July The RSPB was formed to counter the trade in plumes for women’s hats, a fashion responsible for the destruction of many thousands of egrets, birds of paradise and other species whose plumes had become fashionable in the late Victorian era. The Society was so successful that it was granted its Royal Charter in 1904, just 15 years after being founded. Newport nature reserve offers a haven for wildlife on the edge of the city, but is a great place for people too with a new RSPB visitor centre, a café and shop and you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Severn estuary all year round. We enjoy a guided walk as we wander through reed beds and woodlands and see a wide variety of habitats. Why not take a picnic! Includes guided walk and refreshments.

Depart Henley: 09.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 6.00pm Adult £32.50 Concession £31.50 Child £29.50

NEW SANDRINGHAM FLOWER SHOW, Norfolk Wednesday 31 July Set in the magnificent surroundings of Sandringham Park the show features display gardens by leading designers, around 200 trade stands, a craft marquee, main arena events and a military band. Other events include gardners’ questions panel, a Victorian Steam Carousel, rural craft demonstrations as well as gardening talks by top television gardeners. Now in its 132nd year this is a unique event offering the best in horticulture. Includes admission.

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 7.30pm Adult £47.50 Concession £46.50 Child £46.50

SHEFFIELD PARK (NT) & BLUEBELL RAILWAY

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 7.30pm Adult £50.50 Concession £49.50 Child £45.50

© Flickr – strife

© Flickr – Karen Roe

© Flickr – Martin Pettitt

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Thursday 3 October This magnificent informal landscape garden was laid out in the 18th century by ‘Capability’ Brown, with the 4 original lakes forming the centrepiece. There are dramatic colours in all corners of the garden. After time to explore and have lunch, we board a train for a return ride on a steam locomotive of the Bluebell Railway through the picturesque Sussex countryside. Includes admission and return train ride. Reduction for National Trust members.

GREAT DAYS OUT… FROM APRIL TO OCTOBER!


GARDENS, PARKS AND FLOWER SHOWS EXCURSION

SHREWSBURY FLOWER SHOW Friday 9 August Shrewsbury is a pretty floral place most of the time, not surprising for a town where Percy Thrower was Parks Superintendent for 28 years and for more than a century the Shrewsbury Flower Show has been held in the picturesque setting of Shrewsbury’s beautiful 29acre Quarry Park, with its magnificent sunken garden providing a colourful centrepiece for the visitors. More than three million blooms fill the show’s three huge marquees, with hundreds of displays, live entertainment in the arena, along with home and craft displays. This is not just a show for gardeners; it has something for everyone. Includes admission.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 5.00pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £51.50 Concession £50.50 Child £35.50

© www.shrewsburyflowershow.org.uk

NEW STOURHEAD AUTUMN COLOURS, Wiltshire Thursday 24 October ‘A living work of art’ is how Stourhead was described when it first opened in the 1740’s. This world famous garden has as its centrepiece a magnificent lake and some rare and exotic trees. At this time of year the garden will be a spectacular display of orange golds and browns as summer gives way to autumn. The house contains a unique Regency library along with Chippendale furniture and inspirational paintings. Includes admission to the house and gardens.

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £46.50 Concession £45.50 Child £42.50

Depart Henley: 7.00am Arrive destination: Thursday 25 July 10.00am The beautiful splendour of Tatton Park provides the perfect backdrop Depart destination: for the RHS Flower Show. With an exclusive mix of design ideas, 5.00pm horticultural excellence and great shopping, the show includes Return Henley: 8.00pm marquees featuring glorious floral displays from RHS award-winning nurseries, the RHS National Flowerbed Competition and the ‘Country Adult £52.50 Concession £51.50 Living Magazine Pavilion’, making this one of the biggest events in Child £51.50 the gardening calendar. Includes admission.

TATTON PARK FLOWER SHOW, Cheshire

© 2013 The Press Association

NEW TATTON PARK GARDENS WITH TOUR, Cheshire Thursday 30 May The 50 acres of gardens at Tatton have been developing for over 200 years with each successive owner of the Tatton Park estate playing their part in its evolution. Lewis William Wyatt and Joseph Paxton, architect of Crystal Palace, designed various elements including the Conservatory which has just undergone a comprehensive restoration programme. Today it is an almost complete picture of how the gardens existed in Edwardian times and during our guided tour we find out more about the different areas of Tatton Park’s gardens including the walled kitchen garden and the Japanese garden. Includes guided tour of garden and admission to the mansion.

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 7.30pm Adult £48.50 Concession £47.50 Child £43.50

THE VYNE (NT), Basingstoke Wednesday 1 May

Depart Henley: 8.15am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 3.00pm Return Henley: 6.45pm Adult £45.50 Concession £44.50 Child £40.50

© Flickr – hilverd

The gardens are a peaceful escape with secret picnic spots, or you can stroll by the ornamental lake. Why not take in the restored Walled Garden, now a working kitchen garden or the woodlands with a wealth of wildlife and waterfowl to observe. The 16th century house was originally constructed as a Tudor ‘power-house’, visited by Henry VIII on several occasions and later becoming the Chute family home for over 350 years. Includes admission and guided tour of the gardens. Reduction for National Trust members.

© Colin Smith

ALL PRICES INCLUDE ADMISSION CHARGES

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GARDENS, PARKS AND FLOWER SHOWS EXCURSION

WEST MIDLAND SAFARI & LEISURE PARK

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 10.30am Arrive destination: 11.45am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 5.15pm Adult £35.50 Concession £34.50 Child £33.50

© www.wmsp.co.uk

Monday 28 October Between Kidderminster and Bewdley lies the exciting West Midland Safari and Leisure Park. We drive through enclosures of wild animals: tigers, rhinos, giraffes, elephants and the UK’s first ever pride of rare white lions. Leaving the coach, there is much more to see in this 200-acre park. Pets Corner, live animal shows and a large amusement park all vie for your attention, along with a selection of places to eat and shop. Includes admission (not wristbands).

Depart Henley: 10.00am Arrive destination: 11.45am Depart destination: 3.30pm Return Henley: 5.15pm Adult £35.50 Concession £34.50 Child £31.50

© Flickr – khrawlings

NEW WESTONBIRT ARBORETUM, Gloucestershire Friday 11 October Westonbirt is the National Arboretum and the historic, Victorian landscape and important tree and shrub collections are managed by the Forestry Commission. Discover 600 acres of historic landscape and some of the rarest and largest trees and shrubs of their kind. The 16,000 trees over 2,500 different species come from Britain, China, North America, Japan, Chile and other temperate climates. Planting started in the 1850s by Robert Holford; the rich Victorian landowner to whom the Westonbirt estate belonged. The trees will be a blaze of autumn colour; look out for the Acer Glade and the National Japanese Maple collection. Includes admission.

WISLEY RHS GARDEN, Surrey Wednesday 16 October The flagship garden of the Royal Horticultural Society. For more than 100 years, this beautiful and diverse 240 acre site has been a centre of gardening excellence; admire the glories of the Mixed Borders and the magnificent Rock Garden and enjoy the tranquility of the Pinetum. Walk through the varying ‘climates’ of the ‘glass cathedral’ to see some of the finest examples of cultivated glasshouse plants in the world. Includes admission. Reduction for RHS members.

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £43.50 Concession £42.50 Child £36.50

NEW WOBURN ABBEY GARDEN WITH GUIDED TOUR Thursday 16 May Set in the beautiful 3,000 acre Deer Park, Woburn Abbey has been the family home of the Earls and Duke of Bedford for nearly 400 years and today is the home of the 15th Duke and his family. Enjoy the tranquil Abbey Gardens with nearly 30acres of formal and natural landscapes and our guided tour on arrival will bring these beautiful gardens to life. Includes admission to the house and gardens with guided tour.

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 6.30pm Adult £42.50 Concession £41.50 Child £35.50

© pam fray

Our wide range of Holidays, Great Breaks, Excursions and Showtime Trips… HOW TO BOOK: Call our friendly reservations team on 01564 797000 (option 0) Visit our welcoming offices in Henley-in-Arden. Or Book online at www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk – make savings too! Travel with Johnsons – Travel with Friends

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SHOPPING VISITS EXCURSION

BAKEWELL MARKET & PEAK DISTRICT Tuesday 15 October We journey to the Georgian town of Ashbourne and then enter the Peak District National Park to visit Bakewell, famous for its puddings! Browse among the many market stalls before we return through the Derbyshire countryside.

DEPARTURES / PRICING

Depart Henley: 09.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 6.00pm Adult £25.50 Concession £24.50 Child £19.50 © Andrew Hill

NEW BRISTOL CABOT CIRCUS Saturday 19 October Cabot Circus offers shopping and leisure on 3 levels with over 120 shops: including 15 major flagship stores. Surrounding Cabot Circus are attractive pedestrian streets offering a range of independent retailers as well as the high street favourites.

Depart Henley: 09.00am Arrive destination: 10.45am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 5.45pm Adult £35.50 Concession £34.50 Child £29.50

CAMDEN MARKET, London

Depart Henley: 08.00am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £31.50 Concession £30.50 Child £24.50

© Flickr – shrinkin’violet

Sunday 13 October Camden Market is the largest street market in the UK and London’s home of alternative fashion and design. There are hundreds of designer workshops, studios, stalls and shops selling an array of goods from vintage clothing to one off pieces of art.

© Flickr – Boonerator

CHESHIRE OAKS Wednesday 3 April This McArthur Glen Designer Outlet is the largest in Europe, with 120 stores selling branded and designer goods at great discounts. A 500-seat Food Court and 4 restaurants make this a shopping experience to remember.

Depart Henley: 08.45am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 6.15pm Adult £26.50 Concession £26.50 Child £21.50 © Marketing Cheshire

SPECIAL CLARKS VILLAGE at STREET Thursday 23 May Everybody loves a bargain and at Clarks Village you’ll be spoilt for choice. This was the first and is still the foremost in factory shopping centres. As you walk through the village, around every corner you’ll find famous names offering quality goods straight from the factory Fashion, china, glassware, homeware, books, sportswear, toys and electrical goods are all here along with cafes, restaurants and licensed bars.

Depart Henley: 8.000am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 7.00pm Adult £24.50 Concession £24.50 Child £21.50

SPECIAL GLOUCESTER & GLOUCESTER QUAYS Tuesday 22 October With around 50 outlet stores, Gloucester Quays is a great place to indulge your shopping habit. Gloucester Antiques Centre is a present day Aladdin’s cave, containing a treasure trove of antiques, collectables and curios. The main streets of the town – Northgate, Eastgate, Southgate and Westgate – are pedestrianised and make shopping a pleasant experience.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 10.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 5.30pm Adult £24.50 Concession £24.50 Child £21.50

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SHOPPING VISITS EXCURSION

© Lewis Clarke

DEPARTURES / PRICING

NEW GUNWHARF QUAYS, Portsmouth Tuesday 11 June Gunwharf Quays was an important part of the Portsmouth Naval dockyard in the days of sailing ships. Today this waterfront location has been transformed and now there are numerous bars, cafes and restaurants, some with a view of Portsmouth Harbour. The centre is located close to the Historic Dockyard and the Spinnaker Tower as well as a 14-screen cinema, 26-lane bowling complex and art gallery.

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 11.45am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 7.45pm Adult £37.50 Concession £36.50 Child £31.50

TELFORD SHOPPING CENTRE, Shropshire Saturday 26 October

Depart Henley: 9.30am Arrive destination: 10.45am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 5.15pm Adult £34.50 Concession £33.50 Child £28.50

NEW

The shopping centre in Telford has been established since 1973 and covers 25 acres with all the favourite high street names. Sherwood Square is host to the “Telford Time Machine”, a large animated feature clock spanning most of the width of the square. This square often plays host to small exhibitions and mini-markets. NEW MERRY HILL SHOPPING CENTRE Wednesday 9 October With over 200 stores under one roof this is a perfect destination for a day of shopping. Relax and inspect your purchases in one of the many bars and restaurants at ‘Eat Central’ on the first floor; you’ll be spoilt for choice!

Depart Henley: 10.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Depart destination: 4.30pm Return Henley: 5.30pm Adult £26.50 Concession £25.50 Child £20.50

NEWARK ANTIQUE FAIR, Nottinghamshire

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive destination: 10.30am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 6.00pm Adult £37.50 Concession £36.50 Child £29.50

Thursday 6 June This is Europe’s largest antique fair and there are over 4,000 stalls where you can find everything imaginable including furniture, rugs, paintings, maps, sports memorabilia and toys. A fascinating day out – you never know what treasures you may discover!! Includes admission.

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.30am Saturday 20 April Depart destination: 4.30pm One of the most famous street markets in the world and a Return Henley: 7.30pm popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Located in the heart of Notting Hill, the area made famous in the film Adult £28.50 of the same name, the market has various distinct sections Concession £27.50 Child £24.50 – antiques, fruit and vegetables, new goods, second hand goods and a fashion market. The atmosphere is second to none and this is sure to be an enjoyable day out!

PORTOBELLO MARKET, London

NEW WESTFIELD, Stratford City London Wednesday 24 April With 250 shops plus 70 places to dine, Westfield Stratford City is the largest urban shopping and leisure mall in Europe. As well as the many shops and restaurants, you’ll find a range of world-class leisure facilities including a 17 screen cinema, bowling alley and casino.

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GREAT DAYS OUT… FROM APRIL TO OCTOBER!

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive destination: 11.00am Depart destination: 4.00pm Return Henley: 7.30pm Adult £37.50 Concession £36.50 Child £31.50


Making Enquiries and Booking Your Excursion BOARDING INFORMATION Notification of Boarding Times You will be informed of your pick up time by post, 5 days prior to the departure of the excursion. If you have not received your pick up time within 3 days of departure, please contact our Travel Office on 01564 797000 (Option 0). Group Bookings When reserving 15 or more places in a single booking, we are pleased to offer 1 pick-up from a location of your choice (subject to vehicular access). Discounts may also be available dependant on numbers booked.

Laura, our friendly Sales Manager Information and Advice: Contact our Travel Office at Henley-inArden. Callers are welcome at our office at Liveridge Hill (on the Birmingham Road, A3400, just north of Henley) where there is ample parking. You will find our cheerful staff happy to answer any queries you may have. Excursion Bookings: To make a provisional booking, a simple telephone call is all that is needed. We will hold places for you without obligation for 7 days. You can book directly with our Travel Office, through an appointed Travel Agent, or on-line at www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk. Please note that provisional bookings will be cancelled automatically if payment is not received within 7 days. Confirmation of Booking: We require payment in full within 7 days. Once payment is received we will send you your excursion ticket which confirms receipt of payment and the number and location of seats booked. Please check your confirmation details carefully as late alterations will incur charges. Methods of Payment: All normal methods of payment, including cash, are possible at our Offices. By post, with a cheque or by debit/credit card – ie Switch, Visa, Mastercard, by telephone or by post. Please make cheques payable to: ‘Johnsons Coach Travel’. Please note there is a 2% charge for payments made by credit card. Reductions for Senior Citizens, Students and Children: Senior Citizens and Students (with a valid student card) are carried at the Concession rate. Children aged 4-14 are carried at the Child rates listed in this brochure. Please note we cannot accept unaccompanied children below 14 years of age. Cancellation: (a) BY THE COMPANY – should circumstances arise where, due to less than 20 bookings, we are forced to cancel any excursion, all monies paid by all passengers for that particular excursion will be refunded. Following that, the Company shall be exempt from any further liability. However, in addition to this, we will offer a 5% discount off the price of an alternative excursion booked as a result of the cancellation. (b) BY THE PASSENGER – you may cancel your booking at any time prior to departure, subject to the following conditions: (i) For cancellations notified to us more than 7 days prior to the departure of the excursion, a £5.00 charge per booking is made. (ii) For cancellations for which less than 7 (but more than 1) clear days notice is received, a £15.00 per person charge is made. (iii) For cancellations made within 1 day of the excursion, the full cost of the excursion will be charged. (iv) Special cancellation charges may apply where admission tickets are purchased in advance. Alterations: The company reserves the right to alter excursions or prices, the size, seating plan and specification of the vehicle used, or to cancel any excursion listed in this brochure. Please note that if you request a change of boarding point, this may incur an administration charge. Admission charges are included in all prices unless stated.

Late Booking If your booking is made within 7 days of departure, some pick up points may not be available and payment in full is required at the time of booking. Please check with our Reservations staff who will be happy to advise you. Feeder Vehicles Feeder vehicles may be used to bring you to join the main coach. Please note that the feeder vehicle may be a Coach, Minibus or Taxi. Coaches For your comfort and peace of mind, all our ‘Club Class’ coaches have the following luxury features: • EXTRA LEG ROOM • RECLINING SEATS • SEAT BELTS ON ALL SEATS • TOILET/WASHROOM • NO SMOKING • AIR CONDITIONING • HI FLOOR FOR EXCELLENT SIGHTSEEING

D D D D D D

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

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

our 44 seat ‘Futura’

our 49 seat ‘Futura’

Club Class

Club Class

TRAVEL WITH JOHNSONS – TRAVEL WITH FRIENDS

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

47


Acocks Green Alcester Balsall Common * Balsall Common Birmingham Central Bromsgrove Coventry Dorridge NEW Evesham * Hall Green Hampton Road, Warwick Henley High Street Henley in Arden * Hockley Heath Johnsons Stratford * Kenilworth Kineton Knowle Leamington Spa Lillington Maypole Olton Redditch Shipston on Stour Shirley Santander Shirley Skan Solihull Stratford upon Avon Studley Warwick Bus Station Warwick Tesco * Wellesbourne Wootton Wawen

Acocks Green Bowl, Westley Road Bus Stop Outside The Library, Birmingham Road Blooms Garden Centre, Kenilworth Road, B920LP Bus Stop, Station Road, Junction with Kenilworth Road Bus Stop, Bottom of the Steps, by the Town Hall Paradise Circus Bromsgrove Bus Station, Crown Close, Opp Asda. Stand 5 Coach Lay-by Hales Street, Opposite Old Fire Station Bus Stop, Railway Station, Station Approach Evesham United Football Club, A46, Cheltenham Road, WR11 2LZ The Rug Shop, Robin Hood Island Coach Park in front of the Girls Marching Band HQ, Hampton Road, Warwick Bus Stop outside the Three Tuns Pub (and opposite), Henley High Street Johnsons Travel Office, Liveridge Hill, A3400, B95 5QS Bus Stop, Opposite Pearsons Shop, Stratford Road Burton Farm, Bishopton, Stratford-Upon-Avon, CV37 0RW The Clock, Bus Stop Bus Stop Next to the Swan Hotel, Warwick Road Bus Stop, Junction Station Road & Warwick Road Junction of Newbold Terrace & The Parade Bus Stop outside Tesco Extra, Cubbington Road Bus Stop, Outside Sainsbury’s, Maypole Lane Bus Stop, Station Entrance Church Green Bus Stop, by HSBC Bank Front of The George Hotel, The Square Santander, Junction of Stanway Road & Stratford Road Bus Stop Outside Skan Building/Instone Footwear Bus Stop, NatWest Bank, High Street Lay-by, Opposite Civic Hall, Rother Street Lay-by, Co-op Supermarket, Alcester Road Market Street, Stand E Bus Stop, Opposite Petrol Station, Off Emscote Road, CV34 5QJ Outside the Village Hall, School Road Bus Stop, General Store, A3400 (and opposite)

PICK UP TIMES WILL BE NOTIFIED WITHIN 5 DAYS OF THE EXCURSION

BOA R D ING PO INTS FO R ALL EXCUR SIO NS

For 2013 these new FREE pick up points are available on all departures; • Evesham, Evesham United Football Club, A46, Cheltenham Road • Johnsons Stratford, Burton Farm, Bishopton

* PLEASE NOTE THAT FREE CAR PARKING IS AVAILABLE AT: • Our Travel Offices: Liveridge House, B95 5QS – FREE • Blooms Garden Centre: Kenilworth Road, Balsall Common, B92 0LP – FREE • Johnsons Stratford: Burton Farm, Bishopton, CV37 0RW – FREE • Warwick Tesco: Tesco Superstore, Emscote Road, CV34 5QJ – FREE • Evesham, Evesham United Football Club, A46, Cheltenham Road, WR11 2LZ – FREE Parking at any of the above locations is at your own risk, Johnsons cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage caused while parked at any of the locations listed. Please ensure valuables are left out of sight and your vehicle is secure before you depart on your trip.


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