Door to Door
Holidays In Britain & Overseas by Coach, Air & Sea
MORE LUXURY FOR LUXURY TRAVELLERS! See Page 4
WINNER Coach Operator of the Year!
Summer
2020 April-October
Enjoy the Views – Treasure the Memories!
Welcome to
2020 When you book a holiday with Johnsons, you are booking with an award-winning, family coach operator that prides itself on offering quality holidays. Our programme of summer 2020 holidays is packed full of tried and tested itineraries; as well as new, exciting tours that offer something different. Best Wishes from the Family and Staff at Johnsons
How to Book: Call 01564 797000 Visit www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk Email reservations@johnsonscoaches.co.uk Sign up to our E-Newsletter and be the
44 SOMERS PARK AVENUE, MALVERN, WR14 1SD first to hear about promotions and the latest holiday and excursion information. 01684 562406 Visit our Web Page and sign up today!
Travel with Johnsons – Travel with Friends
Peak District
2
Johnsons – A Family business for over 110 years!
What Makes a Johnsons Holiday? Travel with Johnsons, Travel with friends – our motto is at the heart of everything we do. Whether you are looking to discover new destinations, make new friends or to relax and unwind. Here at Johnsons we ensure we carefully hand pick each hotel, destination and attraction to suit you. We look forward to welcoming you on board a Johnsons Coach very soon.’
110 Years of Experience
Award-winning holidays
Free door to door home pick up service on all our holidays
Friendly drivers and couriers
High-quality carefully selected hotels with mobility grades
Sightseeing excursions all included
Travel aboard our Club Class extra legroom coaches
Porterage of your suitcase
£ Specialist local area guides
No surcharge guarantee
Popular Favourite
Make new friends
Look out for our popular favourites
…and Booking is EASY! Call our Friendly Reservations Team on 01564 797000 Have an enquiry or want to book over the phone? Call our offices open: Mon-Fri 9.00am to 5.30pm & Saturday 9.00am to 1.00pm Book Online at www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk Browse our fantastic range of award winning holidays at your convenience. Payment is secure, and you can pay online with a debit or credit card and receive an instant booking confirmation. Visit us at our depot in Henley-in-Arden – Liveridge House, Liveridge Hill, Henley-in-Arden, Warwickshire B95 5QS Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.30pm Saturday 9.00am to 1.00pm
Low Deposits! To confirm your booking a £75 per person deposit is required for all coach holidays etc Unsure? Provisional bookings are held without obligation for 7 days! Pay by cash, cheque, debit or credit cards! Please make cheques payable to ‘Johnsons Henley Ltd’ Spread the cost – The final balance is due 8 weeks prior to date of departure Your Travel Pack – Holiday Travel Packare sent out 7 to 10 days prior to your holiday. This will contain luggage labels, your home pick-up time, hotel address and telephone numbers and any extra information regarding your holiday.
Call 01564 797000 or visit www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk
3
Introducing
Our Brand NEW
Coaches Our popular ‘Luxury Traveller’ holidays have become more luxurious! We’ve invested in two fabulous brand new touring coaches, that have all the features of our well known ‘club class’ extra legroom coaches and much more besides. Enjoy these special extras when you book a LUXURY TRAVELLER holiday.
4
Just 43 ‘First Class’ seats, with even more legroom for all!
4
All seats have calf supports, so you can fully recline and put your feet up!
4 4 4
USB charging points on all seats, plus free Wi-Fi on board
You’ll enjoy all these features for a supplement of just £5 per person per day. And in line with our policy of making all our holidays as inclusive as possible, this charge has been added to and included in your holiday price. You’ll also see in our programme
Complimentary Hot and cold drinks
that some of our other
Two large TV screens – follow the route as you go along and ‘see’ our couriers when they use the mic!
the inclusion of our
holiday departures have LUXURY TRAVELLER coaches too, so look out for our ‘LUXURY
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An extra high passenger deck for even better sightseeing!
TRAVELLER’ logo on the individual holiday pages. And…once again the supplement is included in the price.
And of course all Luxury Traveller customers will enjoy our usual added extras of a complimentary gift bag when boarding plus our included sumptuous afternoon tea during the holiday.
ENJOY MORE LUXURY WITH LUXURY TRAVELLER IN 2020!
These new coaches will be delivered in March 2020 but the above images provide a preview of the style and comfort provided.
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More Luxury for Luxury Travellers
Luxury Traveller Coach
Departures Date
Nights
Destination
There’s Plenty to Choose From! Page
Theme
14/22 14/24 20 33 65 18
LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS LUXURY TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER
April Mon 13 – Fri 17 Apr Mon 13 – Fri 17 Apr Sun 19 – Thu 23 Apr Mon 20 – Fri 24 Apr Fri 24 – Thu 30 Apr Sun 26 – Thu 30 Apr
4 4 4 4 6 4
The Imperial, Barnstaple Luxury Sidmouth at the Victoria Hotel NEW Thurlestone Hotel, South Devon NEW Cardigan Bay & The West Wales Coast Eastbourne – The View Hotel Mullion Cove & The Lizard Peninsula
4 4 6 5 4 4 4 4 4 4
Beaumaris & The Isle of Angelsey Tenby & the South Pembrokeshire Coast NEW Ireland’s Emerald Isle Weymouth & The Jurassic Coast Romantic Journeys of North Norfolk Lakes & Legends & the Hundith Hill Hotel Luxury Sidmouth at the Belmont Hotel Luxury Eastbourne – The Hydro Hotel Luxury Sidmouth at the Victoria Hotel Treasured Houses of Norfolk
87 83 100 58 29 31 24 26 24 28
RELAXED TRAVELLER/LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS LUXURY TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS LUXURY TRAVELLER
7 9 4 5 4 4 4
Shanklin & The Isle of Wight Italy – Lake Molveno Saunton Sands & the North Devon’s Atlantic Coast NEW Torquay Treats at the Imperial Hotel Cardiff – The Angel Hotel Isle of Wight Grand Designs Constable Country – Stoke-by-Nayland Hotel
60 116 23 21 84 25 27
RELAXED TRAVELLER/LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS LUXURY TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER
4 6 4 4 4 7 4
NEW A Taste of Old Holland NEW Connemara, Galway & Westport Beaumaris & The Isle of Anglesey Luxury Sidmouth at the Belmont Hotel NEW Durham Delights – Hardwick Hall Hotel Relaxed Sidmouth – Kingswood & Devoran The Imperial, Barnstaple
109 99 87 24 32 56 22
LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH RELAXED TRAVELLER/LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS LUXURY TRAVELLER RELAXED TRAVELLER/LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS
7 5 4 4 4 4 4 4
NEW Celtic Connections Luxury Sidmouth at the Belmont Hotel The Edinburgh Tattoo – Keavil House Hotel NEW Summertime in Suffolk Luxury Sidmouth at the Belmont Hotel Cardiff – The Angel Hotel Treasured Houses of Norfolk Constable Country – Stoke-by-Nayland Hotel
98 24 90 69 24 84 28 27
LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER
4 4 4 4 4 4 7 4
Clevedon & Secrets of Somerset NEW New Lanark Mill & the Falls of Clyde Isle of Wight Grand Designs Beaumaris & The Isle of Anglesey Luxury Traveller in Kendal Luxury Eastbourne – The Hydro Hotel Relaxed Sidmouth – Kingswood & Devoran NEW Castles & Gardens of Medieval Wales
57 89 25 87 30 26 56 85
LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER RELAXED TRAVELLER/LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER RELAXED TRAVELLER/LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH
4 4 4 5 4 4 5 4
Carlyon Bay Hotel, St Austell NEW Thurlestone Hotel, South Devon NEW Falmouth & the Royal Duchy Beautiful Northumbria Mullion Cove & The Lizard Peninsula Relaxed Scarborough – The Crown Hotel The Palace Hotel Inverness ‘Diamond All Inclusive’ Folkestone, Canterbury & Boulogne
19 20 17 82 18 77 96 66
LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS LUXURY TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER RELAXED TRAVELLER/LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH
May Mon 4 – Fri 8 May Mon 4 – Fri 8 May Sat 9 – Fri 15 May Sun 10 – Fri 15 May Sun 17 – Thu 21 May Sun 17 – Thu 21 May Sun 24 – Thu 28 May Mon 25 – Fri 29 May Sun 31 May – Thu 4 Jun Sun 31 May – Thu 4 Jun
June Sat 6 – Sat 13 Jun Sat 6 – Mon 15 Jun Sun 14 – Thu 18 Jun Sun 21 – Fri 26 Jun Mon 22 – Fri 26 Jun Sun 28 Jun – Thu 2 Jul Mon 29 Jun – Fri 3 Jul
July Mon 6 – Fri 10 Jul Tue 7 – Mon 13 Jul Mon 13 – Fri 17 Jul Sun 19 – Thu 23 Jul Sun 19 – Thu 23 Jul Fri 24 – Fri 31 Jul Sun 26 – Thu 30 Jul
August Fri 7 – Fri 14 Aug Sun 9 – Thu 13 Aug Sun 16 – Thu 20 Aug Mon 17 – Fri 21 Aug Sun 23 – Thu 27 Aug Mon 24 – Fri 28 Aug Sun 30 Aug – Thu 3 Sep Mon 31 Aug – Fri 4 Sep
September Sun 6 – Thu 10 Sep Mon 7 – Fri 11 Sep Sun 13 – Thu 17 Sep Mon 14 – Fri 18 Sep Sun 20 – Thu 24 Sep Mon 21 – Fri 25 Sep Fri 25 Sep – Fri 2 Oct Sun 27 Sep – Thu 1 Oct
October Sun 4 – Thu 8 Oct Sun 4 – Thu 8 Oct Sun 11 – Thu 15 Oct Sun 11 – Fri 16 Oct Sun 18 – Thu 22 Oct Mon 19 – Fri 23 Oct Sun 25 – Fri 30 Oct Mon 26 –Fri 30 Oct
54 Luxury Traveller Coach Departures
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OUR OTHER HOLIDAY THEMES RELAXED TRAVELLER HOLIDAYS If you prefer a more relaxed and leisurely pace of holiday, we are delighted to once again offer our superb range of ‘Relaxed Traveller Tours’. These holidays include a resort hotel in a great location and lunches on the outward and return journeys. Though not specifically aimed at those with mobility issues, the itineraries are certainly more relaxed and will involve less walking, but still include great sightseeing excursions where you can “Enjoy the views and treasure the memories!” Date
Nights
Destination
Page
Theme
March Sun 8 – Thu 12 Mar Fri 13 – Tue 17 Mar Sun 29 Mar – Thu 2 Apr
4 4 4
Relaxed Bideford & Delightful North Devon Relaxed Sidmouth – Kingswood & Devoran Relaxed Bournemouth – Miramar Hotel
14/51 14/56 5
4
Relaxed Eastbourne – New Wilmington
14/64
4 4 4
Beaumaris & The Isle of Anglesey Relaxed Lake District – Skiddaw Hotel Relaxed Falmouth – The Falmouth Hotel
87 74 48
LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH DEPARTURE
4 5 7 4 4
Relaxed Scarborough – The Crown Hotel Relaxed Eastbourne – New Wilmington Shanklin & The Isle of Wight Relaxed Harrogate – Majestic Hotel Worthing & the South Downs
77 64 60 79 63
LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH DEPARTURE
4 4 4 7 5 7 4
Relaxed Lake District – Skiddaw Hotel Relaxed Bideford & Delightful North Devon Beaumaris & The Isle of Anglesey Relaxed Eastbourne – New Wilmington Torquay & Dartmoor – Livermead Cliff Hotel Relaxed Sidmouth – Kingswood & Devoran The Imperial, Barnstaple
74 51 87 64 53 56 22
4 4 6 7 4
Worthing & The South Downs Relaxed Lake District – Skiddaw Hotel Torquay & Dartmoor – Livermead Cliff Hotel Relaxed Eastbourne – New Wilmington Relaxed North Devon – Park Hotel, Barnstaple
63 74 53 64 51
4 7 4 4 4 6 4
Beaumaris & The Isle of Anglesey Shanklin & the Isle of Wight Relaxed Harrogate – Majestic Hotel Relaxed Paignton – Redcliffe Hotel Relaxed Falmouth – The Falmouth Hotel Relaxed Sidmouth – Kingswood & Devoran Relaxed Bournemouth – Miramar Hotel
87 60 79 54 48 56 59
4 4 4 4 4
Relaxed Sidmouth – Royal York & Faulkner Relaxed Lake District – Skiddaw Hotel Shanklin & the Isle of Wight Relaxed Scarborough – The Crown Hotel Relaxed Eastbourne – New Wilmington
56 74 60 77 64
April Thu 9 – Mon 13 Apr
May Mon 4 – Fri 8 May Mon 25 – Fri 29 May Thu 28 May – Mon 1 Jun
June Mon 1 – Fri 5 Jun Thu 4 – Tue 9 Jun Sat 6 – Sat 13 Jun Sun 7 – Thu 11 Jun Thu 11 – Mon 15 Jun
LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH DEPARTURE
July Sun 5 – Thu 9 Jul Sun 12 – Thu 16 Jul Mon 13 – Fri 17 Jul Sat 18 – Sat 25 Jul Tue 21 – Sun 26 Jul Fri 24 – Fri 31 Jul Sun 26 – Thu 30 Jul
LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH DEPARTURE
LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH DEPARTURE LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS
August Fri 21 – Tue 25 Aug Sun 23 – Thu 27 Aug Tue 25 – Mon 31 Aug Sat 29 Aug – Sat 5 Sep Mon 31 Aug – Fri 4 Sep
September Mon 14 – Fri 18 Sep Sat 19 – Sat 26 Sep Sun 20 – Thu 24 Sep Mon 21 – Fri 25 Sep Thu 24 – Mon 28 Sep Fri 25 Sep – Thu 1 Oct Sun 27 Sep – Thu 1 Oct
LUXURY TRAVELLER COACH DEPARTURE
LUXURY TRAVELLER DEPARTURE
October Thu 8 – Mon 12 Oct Sun 11 – Thu 15 Oct Mon 12 – Fri 16 Oct Mon 19 – Fri 23 Oct Sat 24 – Wed 28 Oct
SINGLES GALORE
OUR OTHER HOLIDAY THEMES
SINGLE TRAVELLER/SINGLES GALORE HOLIDAYS
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We have actively increased our allocation of single bedded rooms or double rooms for sole occupancy on most of the tours featured in our brochure, however there are a number of tours where we have contracted either a high proportion of single occupancy rooms or, indeed, where the tour is a dedicated purely for Single Travellers. So if you are travelling alone you can enjoy your holiday in the company of like-minded people. All our single holidays include a welcome drink – a great way to break the ice and get to know your fellow passengers. Date
Nights
Destination
Page
Theme
14/83 14 14/74
SINGLES GALORE SINGLES GALORE SINGLES GALORE
March Sun 1 – Thu 5 Mar Sun 15 – Thu 19 Mar Sun 29 Mar – Thu 2 Apr
4 4 4
Picturesque Pembrokeshire Springtime in Sandbanks Relaxed Lake District – Skiddaw Hotel
6
Secrets of Jersey by Air – Golden Sands Hotel
43
AIR HOLIDAY / SINGLES GALORE
4
Bournemouth & The New Forest – Hilton Hotel
59
SINGLES GALORE
7
NEW Secret Slovenia
119
AIR HOLIDAYSINGLE TRAVELLER
7
NEW Sun-Kissed Sardinia
117
AIR HOLIDAY/SINGLE TRAVELLER
5 4 6 4 4
Guernsey & Herm – Peninsula Hotel Relaxed Lake District – Skiddaw Hotel Secrets of Jersey by Air – Golden Sands Hotel Picturesque Pembrokeshire Singles in the Scottish Borders
44 74 43 83 88
AIR HOLIDAY / SINGLES GALORE RELAXED TRAVELLER/SINGLES GALORE AIR HOLIDAY / SINGLES GALORE SINGLES GALORE SINGLES GALORE
April Sat 4 – Fri 10 Apr
May Mon 18 – Fri 22 May
June Fri 19 – Fri 26 Jun
September Tue 29 Sep – Tue 6 Oct
October Sun 11 – Fri 16 Oct Sun 11 – Thu 15 Oct Tue 13 – Mon 19 Oct Sun 18 – Thu 22 Oct Sun 18 – Thu 22 Oct
For Friendly Help and Advice Call Us on 01564 797000
YOUR HOLIDAY PLANNER 2020 Date
Nights Destination
Page
Theme
35
ACTIVE TRAVELLER/WILDLIFE TOUR
14/83 14/51 14 14 14/47 35 14/56 14 14 14 14 14/57 14/86 59 14/74 14/72
SINGLES GALORE RELAXED TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS
January Thu 23 – Mon 27 January
4
NEW Burns, Birds & Highland Beasties – Grant Arms, Grantown-on-Spey
4 4 4 4 6 4 4 4 4 4 3 4 4 4 4 4
Picturesque Pembrokeshire Relaxed Bideford & Delightful North Devon Torquay – The Nostalgic 40’s – Howden Court Springtime in Norfolk – Dunston Hall The Enchanting Isles of Scilly – Atlantic Hotel (By Air) Norfolk Birds Galore – Links Country Park Hotel Relaxed Sidmouth – Kingswood & Devoran Springtime in Sandbanks Edinburgh City Break Cornish Coast to Coast Big Band in Yorkshire NEW Dorset Delights – George Albert Hotel Llandudno & Great Little Trains of Snowdonia Relaxed Bournemouth – Miramar Hotel Relaxed Lake District – Skiddaw Hotel Red Rose Country. Lancashire & the Ribble Valley
6 4 4 3 4 4 4 4 3 3 5 4 4 4 4 9 6 4 4 4 4 4 5 6 4 7 22 6 4 4 4
Secrets of Jersey by Air – Golden Sands Hotel The Brighton Belle – Old Ship Hotel Membly Hall Hotel, Falmouth Flanders & the Western Front – Novotel Ypres Cornish Gardens at Easter Relaxed Eastbourne – New Wilmington Easter Scottish ‘All Inclusive’ – Winnock Hotel Weymouth & the Jurassic Coast Royal Sandringham & English Shires The Yorkshire Coast Uncovered The Palace Hotel Inverness ‘Diamond All Inclusive’ The Imperial, Barnstaple Luxury Sidmouth at the Victoria Hotel Discovering Lincolnshire – Olde Barn Hotel The Bulbfields of Holland Springtime Scenery of the Fjordland The Enchanting Isles of Scilly – Atlantic Hotel (By Air) NEW Thurlestone Hotel, South Devon Great Gardens of Cornwall – Carlyon Bay Hotel Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight Bluebells & Tulips in Kent NEW Cardigan Bay & The West Wales Coast The Isle of Man – Empress Hotel (By Sea) Eastbourne – The View Hotel Mullion Cove & The Lizard Peninsula Relaxed Sidmouth – Kingswood & Devoran Amalfi Coast, Tuscany & the Italian Riviera Guernsey & Herm – Peninsula Hotel Lincolnshire Spring Special – Olde Barn Hotel Kendal & The Southern Lakes The Bulbfields of Holland
7 6 6 5 4 4 6 4 7 5 6 6 5 4 4 4 7 4 3 4 4 7 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4
Secrets of Jersey by Air – Golden Sands Hotel Torquay & The English Riviera – Howden Court Hotel Springtime in the Gardens of Holland & Belgium The Star Castle Hotel, Isles of Scilly Tenby & the South Pembrokeshire Coast Beaumaris & The Isle of Anglesey The Enchanting Isles of Scilly – Atlantic Hotel (By Air) Bluebell Glades in the Trossachs – Winnock Hotel NEW Discover Malta Sandown & the Isle of Wight The Inner Hebridean – Arran, Islay & Skye NEW Ireland’s Emerald Isle Weymouth & The Jurassic Coast Relaxed Paignton – Redcliffe Hotel The Beautiful South NEW Wonderful Whitby – Saxonville Hotel Lake Lucerne & The Glacier Express Discovering Yorkshire – Queens Hotel, York NEW France – The Chantilly Flower Show Romantic Journeys of North Norfolk Lakes & Legends & the Hundith Hill Hotel Scotland’s Grand Tour Warners – Cricket St Thomas Bournemouth & The New Forest – Hilton Hotel Llandudno & Great Little Trains of Snowdonia Luxury Sidmouth at the Belmont Hotel Luxury Eastbourne – The Hydro Hotel Relaxed Lake District – Skiddaw Hotel Relaxed Falmouth – The Falmouth Hotel NEW Winchester & The ‘Cloth of Gold’ Luxury Sidmouth at the Victoria Hotel Treasured Houses of Norfolk NEW Castles & Gardens of Medieval Wales
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Dawlish Delights
March
Bournemouth
Sun 1 – Thu 5 Mar Sun 8 – Thu 12 Mar Mon 9 – Fri 13 Mar Mon 9 – Fri 13 Mar Wed 11 – Tue 17 Mar Thu 12 – Mon 16 Mar Fri 13 – Tue 17 Mar Sun 15 – Thu 19 Mar Sun 15 – Thu 19 Mar Mon 16 – Fri 20 Mar Fri 20 – Mon 23 Mar Mon 23 – Fri 27 Mar Thu 26 – Mon 30 Mar Sun 29 Mar – Thu 2Apr Sun 29 Mar – Thu 2 Apr Mon 30 Mar – Fri 3 Apr
ACTIVE TRAVELLER/WILDLIFE TOUR RELAXED TRAVELLER SINGLES GALORE
RELAXED TRAVELLER SINGLES GALORE
April
Menin Gate
Needles
Sat 4 – Fri 10 Apr Sun 5 – Thu 9 Apr Tue 7 – Sat 11 Apr Tue 7 – Fri 10 Apr Thu 9 – Mon 13 Apr Thu 9 – Mon 13 Apr Thu 9 – Mon 13 Apr Fri 10 – Tue 14 Apr Fri 10 – Mon 13 Apr Fri 10 – Mon 13 Apr Sun 12 – Fri 17 Apr Mon 13 – Fri 17 Apr Mon 13 – Fri 17 Apr Mon 13 – Fri 17 Apr Thu 16 – Mon 20 Apr Fri 17 – Sun 26 Apr Sat 18 – Fri 24 Apr Sun 19 – Thu 23 Apr Sun 19 – Thu 23 Apr Mon 20 – Fri 24 Apr Mon 20 – Fri 24 Apr Mon 20 – Fri 24 Apr Wed 22 – Mon 27 Apr Fri 24 – Thu 30 Apr Sun 26 – Thu 30 Apr Sun 26 Apr – Sun 3 May Sun 26 Apr – Mon 18 May Mon 27 Apr – Sun 3 May Mon 27 Apr – Fri 1 May Mon 27 Apr – Fri 1 May Thu 30 Apr – Mon 4 May
AIR HOLIDAY/SINGLES GALORE 43 63 48 106 14/49 RELAXED TRAVELLER 14/64 14/91 14/58 14/68 14 14/96 LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS 14/22 LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS 14/24 14/70 108 FRED OLSEN CRUISE 126/127 47 LUXURY TRAVELLER 20 ACTIVE TRAVELLER/GARDENING HOLIDAY 37 ACTIVE TRAVELLER/WALKING HOLIDAY 38/39 66 LUXURY TRAVELLER 33 46 LUX TRL COACH 65 LUXURY TRAVELLER 18 RELAXED TRAVELLER 56 FRED OLSEN CRUISE 126/127 AIR HOLIDAY 44 70 75 108
May
Peckover House Ffestiniog Railway
43 52 121 16 83 87 47 91 118 61 93 100 58 54 61 78 113 76 104 29 31 94 40/41 59 86 24 26 74 48 62 24 28 85
June Mon 1 – Fri 5 Jun
AIR HOLIDAY RIVER CRUISE HOLIDAY BY AIR LUXURY TRAVELLER LUX TRL COACH RELAXED TRAVELLER/LUX TRL COACH
AIR HOLIDAY
LUX TRL COACH LUX TRL COACH RELAXED TRAVELLER
LUXURY TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER
SINGLES GALORE LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS LUXURY TRAVELLER RELAXED TRAVELLER RELAXED TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS LUXURY TRAVELLER
2020 HOLIDAY PLANNER
Snaefell Mountain Railway
Sat 2 – Sat 9 May Sun 3 – Sat 9 May Sun 3 – Sat 9 May Mon 4 – Sat 9 May Mon 4 – Fri 8 May Mon 4 – Fri 8 May Tue 5 – Mon 11 May Thu 7 – Mon 11 May Thu 7 – Thu 14 May Sat 9 – Thu 14 May Sat 9 – Fri 15 May Sat 9 – Fri 15 May Sun 10 – Fri 15 May Mon 11 – Fri 15 May Mon 11 – Fri 15 May Mon 11 – Fri 15 May Mon 11 – Mon 18 May Thu 14 – Mon 18 May Fri 15 – Mon 18 May Sun 17 – Thu 21 May Sun 17 – Thu 21 May Sun 17 – Sun 24 May Mon 18 – Fri 22 May Mon 18 – Fri 22 May Mon 18 – Fri 22 May Sun 24 – Thu 28 May Mon 25 – Fri 29 May Mon 25 – Fri 29 May Thu 28 May – Mon 1 Jun Thu 28 May – Mon 1 Jun Sun 31 May – Thu 4 Jun Sun 31 May – Thu 4 Jun Sun 31 May – Thu 4 Jun
54
Over 250 Fantastic Holidays for you to choose from!
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YOUR HOLIDAY PLANNER 2020 Date
Leeds Castle
Golden Pass Train
Lisbon
Mon 1 – Fri 5 Jun Mon 1 – Fri 5 Jun Wed 3 – Sun 7 Jun Thu 4 – Tue 9 Jun Thu 4 – Mon 8 Jun Sat 6 – Thu 11 Jun Sat 6 – Sat 13 Jun Sat 6 – Mon 15 Jun Sun 7 – Thu 11 Jun Sun 7 – Wed 17 Jun Mon 8 – Fri 12 Jun Tue 9 – Tue 16 Jun Wed 10 – Sat 20 Jun Thu 11 – Mon 15 Jun Fri 12 – Mon 15 Jun Sun 14 – Thu 18 Jun Sun 14 – Thu 18 Jun Sun 14 – Sun 28 Jun Mon 15 – Fri 19 Jun Mon 15 – Fri 19 Jun Fri 19 – Fri 26 Jun Sun 21 – Fri 26 Jun Sun 21 – Fri 26 Jun Mon 22 – Sun 28 Jun Mon 22 – Fri 26 Jun Mon 22 – Sat 27 Jun Tue 23 Jun – Wed 1 Jul Wed 24 – Sun 28 Jun Thu 25 – Mon 29 Jun Fri 26 – Mon 29 Jun Sun 28 Jun – Thu 2 Jul Sun 28 Jun – Sat 4 Jul Mon 29 Jun – Fri 3 Jul Mon 29 Jun – Fri 3 Jul
Nights Destination
Page
4 4 4 5 4 5 7 9 4 10 4 7 10 4 3 4 4 14 4 4 7 5 5 6 4 5 8 4 4 3 4 6 4 4
Quintessential Cumbria Relaxed Scarborough – The Crown Hotel Kent Castles & Canterbury Relaxed Eastbourne – New Wilmington Tastes & Flavours of Kent Regency Sidmouth ‘Rail & Sail’ – Royal York & Faulkner Shanklin & The Isle of Wight Lake Molveno, Italy’s Hidden Gem Relaxed Harrogate – Majestic Hotel Authentic Flavours of Portugal Cornish Charm & ‘Poldark Country’ Secrets of Jersey by Air – Golden Sands Hotel Andre Rieu in Vienna, Austrian Highlights & Prague Worthing & the South Downs Stately Homes & Treasures by the Thames Saunton Sands & the North Devon’s Atlantic Coast Picturesque Pembrokeshire Crossing the Arctic Circle with the Midnight Sun The Kingdom of Northumbria & Scottish Borders NEW June in Bloom in Co Wicklow NEW Secret Slovenia NEW Torquay Treats at the Imperial Hotel Weymouth & The Jurassic Coast Guernsey & Herm – Peninsula Hotel Cardiff – The Angel Hotel Romantic Highland Railways & Loch Ness Cruise NEW Swiss Alps & The Golden Pass Express Llandudno & Great Little Trains of Snowdonia Legends of the Lochs – Winnock Hotel The Relaxing Ribble Valley Isle of Wight Grand Designs Outstanding Northern Ireland Constable Country – Stoke-by-Nayland Hotel Delightful Durham & the Historic North East
75 77 67 64 67 55 60 116 79 124/125 49 43 115 63 65 23 83 128/129 81 99 119 21 58 44 84 95 112 86 92 73 25 102 27 81
5 5 4 6 4 4 6 4 4 4 4 6 9 4 4 7 5 4 4 4 4 4 5 4 4 6 7 4 4 5 9 6 4
NEW Galloway & Bute – Castles & Gardens of South West Scotland NEW Yorkshire Coast & Northumbria (2 Centre) Relaxed Lake District – Skiddaw Hotel Great Yarmouth & The Norfolk Broads Cumbrian Cavalcade NEW A Taste of Old Holland NEW Connemara, Galway & Westport Relaxed Bideford & Delightful North Devon The Brighton Belle – Old Ship Hotel Beaumaris & The Isle of Anglesey The Grand Scottish ‘All Inclusive’ The Isle of Man – Sefton Hotel (By Air) Isles of the UK Coins, Castles & The Brecon Beacons France – Versailles, Candlelit Chateau & Monet’s Garden Relaxed Eastbourne – New Wilmington Rhine & Moselle – Bellevue Rheinhotel, Boppard Luxury Sidmouth at the Belmont Hotel NEW Durham Delights – Hardwick Hall Hotel Sandown & The Isle of Wight Scarborough – The Red Lea Hotel Harrogate & The Yorkshire Dales Torquay & Dartmoor – Livermead Cliff Hotel NEW South Shields, Coast & Pennines Llandudno & Great Little Trains of Snowdonia The Enchanting Isles of Scilly – Atlantic Hotel (By Air) Relaxed Sidmouth – Kingswood & Devoran The Imperial, Barnstaple NEW Charming Chester, Liverpool & Llandudno The Isle of Man – Empress Hotel; (By Sea) Whales, Wonders & Waterfalls of Iceland The Enchanting Isles of Scilly – Atlantic Hotel (By Air) NEW Beautiful Berkshire & Secrets of Surrey & Oxon
89 36 74 69 76 109 99 51 63 87 88 45 126/127 84 105 64 110 24 32 61 78 79 53 80 86 47 56 22 71 46 124/125 47 68
6 6 14 8 7 7 7 6 5 4 5 3 4 4 4 4 6 4 3
Guernsey & Herm – Peninsula Hotel Membly Hall Hotel, Falmouth Capital Cities of the Baltic Scottish Isles NEW Cruise the Danube to Vienna & Budapest NEW Celtic Connections Jersey Battle of Flowers – Monterey Hotel Torquay & the English Riviera – Howden Court Hotel Luxury Sidmouth at the Belmont Hotel Warners Bembridge Coast Hotel, Isle of Wight Regency Sidmouth ‘Rail & Sail’ – Royal York & Faulkner NEW Brussels Carpet of Flowers, Ghent & Bruges Kent Castles & Canterbury The Edinburgh Tattoo – Keavil House Hotel NEW Summertime in Suffolk NEW Cheshire’s Historic Houses & Heritage Tails of the North West Shetland – The Island of the Vikings Worthing & The South Downs Kynren – An Epic Tale of England
44 48 130/131 124/125 122 98 44 52 24 40/41 55 107 67 90 69 72 97 63 80
Theme RELAXED TRAVELLER/LUX TRL COACH RELAXED TRAVELLER
RELAXED TRAVELLER/LUX TRL COACH RELAXED TRAVELLER FRED OLSEN CRUISE AIR HOLIDAY RELAXED TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS FRED OLSEN CRUISE
AIR HOLIDAY/SINGLE TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER AIR HOLIDAY LUX TRL COACH
LUXURY TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER
July
Osborne House
2020 HOLIDAY PLANNER
Versailles
8
Thu 2 – Tue 7 Jul Fri 3 – Wed 8 Jul Sun 5 – Thu 9 Jul Sun 5 – Sat 11 Jul Mon 6 – Fri 10 Jul Mon 6 – Fri 10 Jul Tue 7 – Mon 13 Jul Sun 12 – Thu 16 Jul Sun 12 – Thu 16 Jul Mon 13 – Fri 17 Jul Mon 13 – Fri 17 Jul Tue 14 – Mon 20 Wed 15 – Fri 24 Jul Thu 16 – Mon 20 Jul Thu 16 – Mon 20 Jul Sat 18 – Sat 25 Jul Sat 18 – Thu 23 Jul Sun 19 – Thu 23 Jul Sun 19 – Thu 23 Jul Mon 20 – Fri 24 Jul Mon 20 – Fri 24 Jul Mon 20 – Fri 24 Jul Tue 21 – Sun 26 Jul Thu 23 – Mon 27 Jul Thu 23 – Mon 27 Jul Fri 24 – Thu 30 Jul Fri 24 – Fri 31 Jul Sun 26 – Thu 30 Jul Sun 26 – Thu 30 Jul Mon 27 Jul – Sat 1 Aug Mon 27 Jul – Wed 5 Aug Thu 30 Jul – Wed 5 Aug Thu 30 Jul – Mon 3 Aug
ACTIVE TRAVELLER/WILDLIFE TOUR RELAXED TRAVELLER
LUX TRL COACH LUX TRL COACH RELAXED TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS RELAXED TRAVELLER/LUX TRL COACH AIR HOLIDAY FRED OLSEN CRUISE
RELAXED TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS LUXURY TRAVELLER
RELAXED TRAVELLER
RELAXED TRAVELLER/LUX TRL COACH LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS
FRED OLSEN CRUISE
August
Jersey Battle of Flowers Sumburgh Head
Sat 1 – Fri 7 Aug Sun 2 – Sat 8 Aug Sun 2 – Sun 16 Aug Wed 5 – Thu 13 Aug Thu 6 – Thu 13 Aug Fri 7 – Fri 14 Aug Sat 8 – Sat 15 Aug Sun 9 – Sat 15 Aug Sun 9 – Thu 13 Aug Mon 10 – Fri 14 Aug Thu 13 – Tue 18 Aug Thu 13 – Sun 16 Aug Sun 16 – Thu 20 Aug Sun 16 – Thu 20 Aug Mon 17 – Fri 21 Aug Mon 17 – Fri 21 Aug Tue 18 – Mon 24 Aug Fri 21 – Tue 25 Aug Fri 21 – Mon 24 Aug
40 New Holidays for 2020
AIR HOLIDAY FRED OLSEN CRUISE FRED OLSEN CRUISE RIVER CRUISE HOLIDAY BY AIR LUX TRL COACH AIR HOLIDAY LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS
LUX TRL COACH LUX TRL COACH LUX TRL COACH
RELAXED TRAVELLER
Date
Nights Destination
Page
Theme
4 4 4 5 4 6 4 7 5 7 4 4 4 4 4
Luxury Sidmouth at the Belmont Hotel Relaxed Lake District – Skiddaw Hotel Malhamdale & The Yorkshire Dales Beautiful Northumbria Cardiff – The Angel Hotel Torquay & Dartmoor – Livermead Cliff Hotel The Edinburgh Tattoo – Winnock Hotel NEW Black Forest Rail & Sail Delights of Devon & Cornwall Relaxed Eastbourne – New Wilmington Treasured Houses of Norfolk Discovering Yorkshire – Doubletree by Hilton Dawlish Delights Constable Country – Stoke-by-Nayland Hotel Relaxed North Devon – Park Hotel, Barnstaple
24 74 38/39 82 84 53 90 111 128/129 64 28 76 54 27 51
LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS RELAXED TRAVELLER ACTIVE TRAVELLER/WALKING HOLIDAY
Thu 3 – Mon 7 Sep Thu 3 – Mon 7 Sep Sat 5 – Sat 12 Sep Sun 6 – Thu 10 Sep Sun 6 – Thu 10 Sep Mon 7 – Fri 11 Sep Mon 7 – Fri 11 Sep Mon 7 – Fri 11 Sep Tue 8 – Fri 18 Sep Sun 13 – Thu 17 Sep Sun 13 – Fri 18 Sep Sun 13 – Thu 17 Sep Mon 14 – Fri 18 Sep Mon 14 – Fri 18 Sep Mon 14 – Fri 18 Sep Tue 15 – Tue 22 Sep Tue 15 – Sun 20 Sep Thu 17 – Thu 24 Sep Fri 18 – Mon 21 Sep Sat 19 – Sat 26 Sep Sun 20 – Thu 24 Sep Sun 20 – Thu 24 Sep Mon 21 – Fri 25 Sep Mon 21 – Fri 25 Sep Mon 21 – Fri 25 Sep Wed 23 – Sun 27 Sep Thu 24 – Wed 30 Sep Thu 24 – Mon 28 Sep Fri 25 Sep – Thu 1 Oct
4 4 7 4 4 4 4 4 10 4 5 4 4 4 4 7 5 7 3 7 4 4 4 4 4 4 6 4 6
35 73 114 57 83 50 52 89 120 25 58 63 75 70 87 43 61 130/131 38/39 60 30 79 54 26 71 92 47 48
ACTIVE TRAVELLER/WILDLIFE TOUR
Fri 25 Sep – Wed 7 Oct Sat 26 Sep – Thu 1 Oct Sun 27 Sep – Thu 1 Oct Sun 27 Sep – Thu 1 Oct Mon 28 Sep – Fri 2 Oct Mon 28 Sep – Fri 2 Oct Mon 28 Sep – Fri 2 Oct Tue 29 Sep – Mon 2 Nov Tue 29 Sep – Tue 6 Oct
12 5 4 4 4 4 4 34 7
Norfolk Birds Galore – Links Country Park Hotel Traditional Lancashire The Austrian Tyrol – Neue Post Hotel, Mayrhofen Clevedon & Secrets of Somerset Picturesque Pembrokeshire Looe & The Cornish Coast NEW Sailing & Steaming in Devon NEW New Lanark Mill & the Falls of Clyde NEW Fairytale Castles & Railways of Transylvania Isle of Wight Grand Designs Weymouth & The Jurassic Coast The Brighton Belle – Old Ship Hotel Quintessential Cumbria Discovering Lincolnshire – Olde Barn Hotel Beaumaris & The Isle of Anglesey Secrets of Jersey by Air – Golden Sands Hotel Sandown & the Isle of Wight Historic Cities & Waterways of Germany Dovedale & the Derbyshire Peaks Shanklin & the Isle of Wight Luxury Traveller in Kendal Relaxed Harrogate – Majestic Hotel Relaxed Paignton – Redcliffe Hotel Luxury Eastbourne – The Hydro Hotel Waterways of Cheshire A Victorian Steam Journey – Winnock Hotel The Enchanting Isles of Scilly – Atlantic Hotel (By Air) Relaxed Falmouth – The Falmouth Hotel Relaxed Sidmouth – Kingswood & Devoran Norway’s Northern Archipelago The Isle of Man – Empress Hotel (By Sea) Relaxed Bournemouth – Miramar Hotel NEW Castles & Gardens of Medieval Wales NEW Wonderful Whitby – Saxonville Hotel Llandudno & Great Little Trains of Snowdonia The Isle of Arran & the Kintyre Peninsula North American Waterways & Canadian Fall NEW Sun-Kissed Sardinia
56 124/125 46 59 85 78 86 93 130/131 117
4 7 4 4 4 4 4 6 4 6 5 4 4 5 4 4 4 6 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 4
Concorde, Castles & Code Breakers Killarney & The Ring of Kerry Carlyon Bay Hotel, St Austell NEW Thurlestone Hotel, South Devon NEW Devon & Delightful Dartmoor NEW Dorset Delights – George Albert Hotel NEW Bridlington & The Yorkshire Coast The Isle of Man – Sefton Hotel (By Air) Relaxed Sidmouth – Royal York & Faulkner The Isles of Scilly (By Air) Guernsey & Herm – Peninsula Hotel NEW Falmouth & the Royal Duchy Relaxed Lake District – Skiddaw Hotel Beautiful Northumbria Cornish Charm & ‘Poldark Country’ Shanklin & the Isle of Wight Scotland’s Autumn Gold & the Enchanted Forest Secrets of Jersey by Air – Golden Sands Hotel Membly Hall Hotel, Falmouth Mullion Cove & The Lizard Peninsula Picturesque Pembrokeshire Singles in the Scottish Borders Relaxed Scarborough – The Crown Hotel Torquay & The English Riviera – Howden Court Hotel Relaxed Eastbourne – New Wilmington The Palace Hotel Inverness ‘Diamond All Inclusive’ Folkestone, Canterbury & Boulogne
70 101 19 20 50 57 77 45 56 36 44 17 74 82 49 60 95 43 48 18 83 88 77 52 64 96 66
4 13 4
Warners – Nidd Hall, Nr Harrogate Exploring the Canaries & Madeira Warners – Alvaston Hall, Cheshire
40/41 128/129 40/41
FRED OLSEN CRUISE
13
In Search of the Northern Lights
130/131
FRED OLSEN CRUISE
Sun 23 – Thu 27 Aug Sun 23 – Thu 27 Aug Mon 24 – Fri 28 Aug Mon 24 – Sat 29 Aug Mon 24 – Fri 28 Aug Tue 25 – Mon 31 Aug Thu 27 – Mon 31 Aug Thu 27 Aug – Thu 3 Sep Thu 27 Aug – Tue 1 Sep Sat 29 Aug – Sat 5 Sep Sun 30 Aug – Thu 3 Sep Sun 30 Aug – Thu 3 Sep Mon 31 Aug – Fri 4 Sep Mon 31 Aug – Fri 4 Sep Mon 31 Aug – Fri 4 Sep
LUX TRL COACH RELAXED TRAVELLER
FRED OLSEN CRUISE RELAXED TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER
LUXURY TRAVELLER RELAXED TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS
September
Brighton
Whitby Abbey
Dublin
Tintagel Castle Northern Lights
LUX TRL COACH
LUX TRL COACH AIR HOLIDAY LUXURY TRAVELLER
RELAXED TRAVELLER/LUX TRL COACH AIR HOLIDAY FRED OLSEN CRUISES ACTIVE TRAVELLER/WALING HOLIDAY RELAXED TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER RELAXED TRAVELLER RELAXED TRAVELLER LUXURY TRAVELLER
RELAXED TRAVELLER RELAXED TRAVELLER/ LUXURY TRAVELLER DEPARTURE FRED OLSEN CRUISE RELAXED TRAVELLER LUX TRL COACH
FRED OLSEN CRUISE AIR HOLIDAY/SINGLE TRAVELLER
October Thu 1 – Mon 5 Oct Fri 2 – Fri 9 Oct Sun 4 – Thu 8 Oct Sun 4 – Thu 8 Oct Mon 5 – Fri 9 Oct Mon 5 – Fri 9 Oct Mon 5 – Fri 9 Oct Tue 6 – Mon 12 Oct Thu 8 – Mon 12 Oct Sat 10 – Fri 16 Oct Sun 11 – Fri 16 Oct Sun 11 – Thu 15 Oct Sun 11 – Thu 15 Oct Sun 11 – Fri 16 Oct Mon 12 – Fri 16 Oct Mon 12 – Fri 16 Oct Mon 12 – Fri 16 Oct Tue 13 – Mon 19 Oct Thu 15 – Mon 19 Oct Sun 18 – Thu 22 Oct Sun 18 – Thu 22 Oct Sun 18 – Thu 22 Oct Mon 19 – Fri 23 Oct Mon 19 – Fri 23 Oct Sat 24 – Wed 28 Oct Sun 25 – Fri 30 Oct Mon 26 –Fri 30 Oct
LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS LUXURY TRAVELLER
AIR HOLIDAY RELAXED TRAVELLER ACTIVE TRAVELLER/WILDLIFE TOUR AIR HOLIDAY/SINGLES GALORE LUXURY TRAVELLER/BREND HOTELS RELAXED TRAVELLER/SINGLES GALORE LUX TRL COACH RELAXED TRAVELLER AIR HOLIDAY/SINGLES GALORE LUXURY TRAVELLER SINGLES GALORE SINGLES GALORE RELAXED TRAVELLER RELAXED TRAVELLER LUX TRL COACH LUX TRL COACH
November Mon 2 – Fri 6 Nov Wed 11 – Tue 24 Nov Mon 23 – Fri 27 Nov
2021 and Beyond Tue 16 Feb – Mon 1 Mar
Call 01564 797000 or visit www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk
2020 HOLIDAY PLANNER
Titisee
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Your Holiday Destination Guides The number shown after each place name on the map refers to the brochure page number on which the tour appears. For help and reservations please call – 01564 01684797000. 562406
Isles of Shetland (97)
Inverness (14 • 96) Grantown-on-Spey (35) Isle of Skye (93) Aberdeen (94) Kingussie (95) Blairgowrie (95) Dunfermline (90) Edinburgh (14) Drymen near Loch Lomond (14 • 90 • 91 • 92) Symington (88) Rothesay (Bute) (89)
Peebles (88)
Morpeth (36)
Isle of Islay (93) Irvine (98) New Lanark (89)
Newcastle (81 • 82)
Isle of Arran (93) Stranraer (89)
Durham (32 • 80 • 81) Kendal (30 • 75) Darlington (80)
Gilsland (75)
Troon (94) Carlisle (76) Cockermouth (31)
Whitby (78) Scarborough (77 • 78) Harrogate (41 • 79) York (76) Bridlington (36 • 77) Huddersfield (14) Hull (14) Alvaston (Cheshire) (41) Grantham (14 • 70)
Keswick (14 • 74) Isle of Man (45 • 46) Ribble Valley (14 • 72)
Llandudno (14 • 86)
Leyland (73) Salford (72) Chester (71) Frodsham, Cheshire (71)
Kelling near Cromer (29)
Beaumaris, Angelsey (87)
West Runton, Cromer (35)
Abergele (98) Llangollen (85) Cardigan Bay (33) Cwmbran (84) Carmarthen (14 • 83)
Kings Lynn (28)
Norwich (14)
Rockingham (Northants) (14 • 68)
Huntingdon (70)
Cardiff (84)
Bury St Edmunds (69) Bracknell, Berkshire (68)
Tenby (83)
Stoke-by-Nayland (27)
DESTINATION GUIDE
Barnstaple (14 • 22 • 52)
10
Great Yarmouth (69)
Clevedon (57)
Winchester (62)
Rochester (67)
Saunton Sands (23) Bideford (14 • 51) Chard (40)
Dorchester (14 • 57)
Cobham (65)
Folkestone (66)
Sidmouth (14 • 24 • 55 • 56)
Eastbourne (14 • 26 • 64 • 65)
Bodmin (14 • 49)
Brighton (63) Worthing (63) Bognor Regis (61)
Newquay (49) Falmouth (17 • 48) Isles of Scilly (14 • 16 • 36 • 47) Mullion Cove (Lizard) (18) Carlyon Bay (St Austell) (19 • 37) Looe (14 • 50) Plymouth (50) Thurlestone (Kingsbridge) (20)
Canterbury (67)
Dawlish (54)
Torquay (14 • 21 • 52 • 53) Paignton (54)
Isle of Wight – Bembridge (41) Isle of Wight – Ventnor (25) Isle of Wight – Sandown (61) Isle of Wight – Shanklin (60) Bournemouth (59) Sandbanks (14) Weymouth (14 • 58)
For 2020 choose from 120 Different Holiday locations
Your European Destination Guide Dunadry (98) Belfast (102) Connemara (99) Dublin (101) Enniskerry (99)
HOLLAND – Leusden (Bulbfields) (108)
HOLLAND – Nunspeet (109)
Killarney (101)
BELGIUM – Ypres (106) BELGIUM – Brussels (107)
Adare (100)
GERMANY – Boppard/The Rhine (110)
Channel Islands – Jersey & Guernsey (43 • 44)
CZECH REPUBLIC – Prague (115) FRANCE – Paris, Chantilly (104) GERMANY – Gengenbach/The Black Forest (111) FRANCE – Paris, Versailles, Giverny (105)
AUSTRIA – Vienna (115)
SWITZERLAND – Seelisberg/Glacier Express (113) AUSTRIA – Mayrhofen/The Tyrol (114) ROMANIA – Transylvania (120)
SWITZERLAND – Flueli-Ranft/Swiss Alps (112) ITALY - Lake Molveno/Trento/Dolomites (116)
SLOVENIA – Kranjska Gora (119)
ITALY – Sardinia (117)
• Delights of Devon & Cornwall • Scottish Isles with the Edinburgh Tattoo • Norway’s Northern Archipelago • Crossing the Arctic Circle with the Midnight Sun • Capital Cities of the Baltic • Exploring the Canaries & Madeira • Amalfi Coast, Tuscany & the Italian Riviera
• Isles of the UK • Whales, Wonders & Waterfalls of Iceland • Springtime Scenery of the Fjordland • In Search of the Northern Lights • Historic Cities & Waterways of Germany • Authentic Flavours of Portugal • North American Waterways & Canadian Fall
See pages 123-131 for more information on these cruises RIVER CRUISES WITH ARENA TRAVEL & THE RIVER CRUISE LINE Holland/Belgium – 121 Danube – 122
For 2020 choose from 120 Different Holiday locations
DESTINATION GUIDE
Door to Door Holidays with
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Joining our Holidays is EASY! Our Door to Door Service
Free Park & Ride
We understand that you want total relaxation and peace of mind on your holiday and that’s why all our holidays include our FREE door to door home pick-up service.
You can also join our holidays by driving to our coach depot in Henley-in-Arden and leaving your car in our secure car park for the duration of your holiday. Our car par is secure and well lit, but of course all cars are parked at the owner’s risk.
Seat Reservations & ‘Club Class’ Coach Travel For your comfort and relaxation ALL departures are operated by our own high specification ‘Club Class’ coaches.
Drop off and Collect – SAVE £25
‘Seat Only’ Bookings
Friends or family can drop you off at our depot in Henley-inArden and collect you again at the end of your holiday, and we’ll reduce the cost of your holiday by £25 per person.
Take advantage of our holidays to visit family and friends! Book a ‘Seat Only’ on any of our holidays as a means to travel to and from a resort. These can be booked from 8 weeks in advance of the departure date.
CANNOCK LICHFIELD
M6 TOLL
LEICESTER
M54
TAMWORTH
WOLVERHAMPTON
Club Class
M69 NUNEATON
DUDLEY M5
Each has extra passenger legroom, comfortable reclining seats, plus toilet and hot drinks facilities as well as great sightseeing from the high passenger deck. Once booked, your seat number is reserved for the whole holiday. Please note that you are required by law to wear your seat belt at all times when the vehicle is in motion.
HINCKLEY
M42
WALSALL SUTTON COLDFIELD M6
M1
M6
BIRMINGHAM
LUTTERWORTH
STOURBRIDGE SOLIHULL
COVENTRY
KIDDERMINSTER
RUGBY
M42 KENILWORTH
STOURPORTON-SEVERN
M45
BROMSGROVE REDDITCH
M5
WARWICK HENLEYIN-ARDEN
DROITWICH
ROYAL LEAMINGTON SPA DAVENTRY M40
ALCESTER STRATFORDUPON-AVON
JOINING OUR HOLIDAYS
WORCESTER
12
D D D D D D
C C C C C C
Toilet & Washroom
D D D D D
C C C C C
DRIVER
13M 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
B B B B B B B B B B B B B
A A A A A A A A A A A A A
COURIER
D D D D D
C C C C C
Toilet & Washroom
D D D D D D
C C C C C C
DRIVER
13M 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
B B B B B B B B B B B B B
A A A A A A A A A A A A A
COURIER
13D 13C 12M 12B 12A D C 11 B A MALVERN
EVESHAM
D C 10 B A D C 9 B A
SHIPSTONON-STOUR
BROADWAY
BANBURY
M50 MORETON-IN-MARSH
D C 8 B A
M40
TEWKESBURY STOW-ONTHE-WOLD
D C 7 B A
CHIPPING NORTON
CHELTENHAM Continental Steps Toilet & Washroom
6 B A 5 B A
GLOUCESTER M5
BURFORD WITNEY
4 B A
OXFORD
D C 3 B A D C 2 B A D C 1 B A
If you live in the white area, your ‘Door to Door’ service is free of charge DRIVER
Our 49 Seat VDL Futura Club Class
Our 49 Seat Scania Finesse Club Class
COURIER
Our 43 Seat Luxury Traveller
If you live in the yellow area a supplementary charge of £10 per person return applies
For Friendly Help and Advice Call Us on 01564 797000
Frequently Asked Questions Do you provide insurance? Johnsons (Henley) Limited t/a Johnsons Coach Travel, Johnsons Coaches & Johnsons Quality Coach Travel is an Appointed Representative of ITC Compliance Limited who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and which is permitted to advise on and arrange general insurance contracts.
Your Financial Security For your peace of mind, JOHNSONS are Bonded Coach Holiday (BCH) members, which is a government approved scheme monitored and audited by the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK (CPT). This consumer protection scheme ensures that in relation to the coach package holidays described in this brochure, clients’ monies are protected by a Bond in the unlikely event of the Member’s insolvency. BCH operators are bound by rules and a code of conduct and must ensure that the terms of their trading charter are clear and reasonable. A copy of our Trading Charter is available on line at www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk and will be forwarded to you with your holiday booking confirmation.
Can you guarantee requests with hotels? Yes, at the time of booking please mention this to the Reservations Team who will call the hotel and if guaranteed, this will be stated on you confirmation.
Do you send payment reminders? No, payment due dates are listed towards the bottom of your invoice or the payment parameters are listed on our booking terms & conditions leaflet.
When do we receive the final details for our holiday? Your travel pack will be sent to you around a week to ten days prior to your departure date. This will include your accommodation details, pickup time and much more!
Do you book seats or do we swap during the holiday? At the time of booking, you’ll be asked to book your seats. This seat will remain the same throughout the duration of your holiday unless otherwise discussed with a Johnsons Staff Member.
Do you allow Wheelchairs, Scooters, Walkers on your holidays? On most of our holidays we will allow for mobility aids to be taken (see Sections 20 & 21 of our Trading Charter). Some of our holidays are not suitable for those that struggle with walking, but this will be made clear in the brochure or prior to booking by the Reservations Team.
Do I need insurance for my holiday? For all our UK holidays we recommend that you take out insurance, whether that be our policy or you take a policy out privately. For all other tours Including flights, cruises and continental coach tours, travel insurance is a must, you cannot travel abroad with Johnsons without this. Again you can take out our policy or take a policy out privately.
Great for Groups If you are a group organiser at a club or association and are interested in your group joining one of the tour departures featured within this brochure, then special group discounts apply!
For every 11-21 full paying clients receive ONE FREE PLACE!
4
For every 22-40 full paying clients receive ONE FREE PLACE & ONE AT 50% DISCOUNT!
4
For every 41 or more full paying clients receive TWO FREE PLACES!
For any other group enquiry or to enquire about our special tailor-made departures, please ring or Groups Department on 01564 797021. *Discounts are only available for holidays included in this brochure.!
Join our SeeMore Loyalty Club! O
HNSON
J
S
If you enjoy travelling with Johnsons, you may benefit from joining our SeeMore loyalty club.
M
Club mascot) looks forward to having you on board!
Sightseeing Excursions are Included in the Price – On All Holidays!
L
newsletters, exclusive trips with the club and discounts from various local and regional retailers. TO JOIN: Simply call our Reservations Team and ask for a SeeMore application form. SeeMore the Seagull (our Loyalty
E SE
an opportunity to book before the general release to the public (get those seats and rooms you want), plus monthly
U B
There are many benefits including discounts on Holidays, Great Breaks and Day Trips, receiving our brochures first with
O R E C
GENERAL INFORMATION
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SPRING into 2020! Are the winter blues getting you down? Check out our fabulous selection of early season breaks and enjoy the beauty of the UK in the ‘off-season’!
Pembrokeshire & The Gower Peninsula
Bideford & Delightful North Devon
Single Traveller Holiday Ivy Bush Hotel Sun 1 Mar x 4 Nts
Relaxed Traveller The Royal Hotel Sun 8 Mar x 4 Nts
From £455
From £485
Torquay The Nostalgic 40’s
Springtime in Norfolk
The Enchanting Isles of Scilly (By Air from Land’s End)
Howden Court Hotel Mon 9 Mar x 4 Nts
Dunston Hall Hotel Mon 9 Mar x 4 Nts
The Atlantic Hotel Wed 11 Mar x 6 Nts
From £389
From £539
From £1029
Edinburgh City Break
Cornish Coast to Coast
Springtime in Sandbanks Singles Galore The Sandbanks Hotel Sun 15 Mar x 4 Nts
The Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Sun 15 Mar x 4 Nts
From £579
From £529
Dorset Delights George Albert Hotel, Dorchester Mon 23 Mar x 4 Nts
Llandudno & Great Little Trains of Snowdonia
From £479
Hannafore Point Hotel Looe Mon 16 Mar x 4 Nts
‘Spring is in the Air’ at Sidmouth Relaxed Traveller Kingswood Hotel Fri 13 Mar x 4 Nts
From £514 Big Band in Yorkshire Cedar Court Hotel Huddersfield Fri 20 Mar x 3 Nts
From £439
From £454
Springtime in the Lakes
Red Rose Country – Lancashire & The Ribble Valley
Dunoon Hotel Thu 25 Mar x 4 Nts
Singles Galore Skiddaw Hotel Sun 29 Mar x 4 Nts
From £565
From £549
Foxfields Country Hotel Mon 30 Mar x 4 Nts
From £515
EASTER 2020 at a glance!
SPRING & EASTER 2020
With Spring in full-swing, Easter is an ‘Egg-cellent’ time for that short holiday breakaway. With ten inspirational Easter Departures to choose from we’re sure that there will be something here for everyone!
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Cornish Gardens at Easter Lanhydrock Hotel, Nr Bodmin Thu 9 Apr x 4 Nts
From £564
Relaxed Easter in Eastbourne Relaxed Traveller New Wilmington Hotel Thu 9 Apr x 4 Nts
From £479
The Yorkshire Coast Uncovered
Royal Sandringham & The English Shires
Hallmark Hotel, North Ferriby Fri 10 Apr x 3 Nts
Best Western Rockingham Forest Fri 10 Apr x 3 Nts
From £349
From £429
Discovering Lincolnshire
Luxury Easter in North Devon
Luxury Easter at Sidmouth
Best Western Palace Hotel Sun 12 Apr x 5 Nts
Singles Galore The Olde Barn Hotel, Nr Grantham Mon 13 Apr x 4 Nts
Luxury Traveller The Imperial Hotel, Barnstaple Mon 13 Apr x 4 Nts
Luxury Traveller The Victoria Hotel, Sidmouth Mon 13 Apr x 4 Nts
From £689
From £499
From £569
From £629
Easter Scottish All Inclusive
Easter in Weymouth
Winnock Hotel, Drymen Thu 9 Apr x 4 Nts
Hotel Rex Fri 10 Apr x 4 Nts
From £539
From £509
The Palace Hotel Inverness – ‘Diamond All-Inclusive’
All tours include 4 Our Door to Door Service 4 Our own Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 Half Board Accommodation (Unless stated as ‘All-Inclusive’) 4 Excursions & admissions where stated For further details on all these departures please see Pages 44-64 of our Winter-Spring 2019-20 Door to Door Holidays brochure.
Our Springtime Collection at a glance!
OUR UK & IRELAND Coach Holiday Collection
Vast natural beauty, charming towns, dramatic cities and centuries of history make the United Kingdom one of the most captivating holiday destinations in the world. At Johnsons we have put decades of travel experience into creating a range of exclusive tours which showcase the best of the UK and Ireland – allowing you to explore the incredible environments waiting just beyond their doorstep.
Holiday Themes/Regions Luxury Traveller Departures 16 – 32
Active Traveller Departures 33 – 39
Warner Holidays 40 – 41
Channel Islands 42 – 44
England Isle of Man 45 – 46
South West 47 – 58
South & South East 59 – 67
Eastern & Central 68 – 70
North West 71 – 76
Yorkshire & North East 76 – 82
Wales 83 – 87
Scotland 88 – 97
Ireland 98 – 102
Look What’s Included! 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service
4 Half board Accommodation Not Included All Lunches, unless those stated. All prices are per person. All Departure & Return times quoted are approximate & may be subject to alteration.
Enjoy the Views – Treasure the Memories
ENGLAND
4 ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coaches with ‘First Class’ seating on our Luxury Traveller tours OR Club Class Extra Legroom Coach on all other tours
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THE STAR CASTLE HOTEL, ISLES OF SCILLY Outstandingly beautiful & unspoilt
5 Nights From: £1098 St Mary’s
Located on St Mary’s, the largest island in the Isles of Scilly archipelago, the 4-star Castle Hotel is just a short 5-minute walk from Hugh Town. Nestling on the Garrison, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. Where we’ll discover stunning silvery white beaches, translucent turquoise seas and a rugged coastline bounded by golden gorse – this charming landscape, warmed by the breezes of the Gulf Stream, is the ideal escape for leisurely walking, peace and relaxation. Holiday Itinerary
Monday We transfer to Land’s End Airport for our short 20-minute flight to St Mary’s on the beautiful Isles of Scilly. Upon arrival we continue to our hotel for our five-night stay Tuesday – Friday At leisure in St Mary’s. During our stay we include 3 excursions which will enable you to uncover the unique character and beauty of this archipelago.
Saturday We return to the mainland where our coach will be waiting to whisk you homeward.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 5 nights half board 4 Cream Tea 4 Return flights 4 All coach transfers 4 Guided
FLIGHTS: This tour includes return flights from Land’s End Airport to walking tour of St Mary’s 4 Boat trip to the Island of Tresco and St Mary’s on the Isles of Scilly. Flights entrance to the Abbey Gardens are with Skybus who operate the 4 Boat trip to St Martin’s or St Agnes scheduled 20 minute flying time with 8 Not Included: All lunches 19 & 8-seater aircraft. 11451 All the flights and flightinclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority ATOL Scheme – Johnsons ATOL Number is 11451.
Included Excursions
LUXURY TRAVELLER
Walking tour of St Mary’s – A full-day guided walking tour of St Mary’s, taking in Hugh Town, Harry’s Wall, Lower Moors and the Old Town. For the more active walker we also include visits to Peninnis Head and Buzza Hill. Tresco – A crossing to the second largest island, Tresco, for a visit to the world famous Tresco Abbey Gardens. Established in the ruins of a Benedictine priory, they contain plants found nowhere else in Britain. St Martin’s or St Agnes – A full day trip to the island of St Martin’s with its beautiful beaches and scenery OR St Agnes, which is only a mile wide. You then continue to the outer isles to view colonies of wild seals and birdlife. The days on which the excursions will operate is weather dependant and will be at the discretion of the hotel.
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Tresco Abbey Gardens
Your Holiday Hotel Mon 4 – Sat 9 May 2020 The Star Castle Hotel, St Mary’s This Grade I listed, family run hotel, is located on the Garrison a short walk from the centre of St Mary’s and the harbour, commanding breathtaking views of the stunning archipelago. With 38 bedrooms, the hotel boasts traditional 16th century castle accommodation within 3 acres of secluded gardens. Facilities include an indoor heated swimming pool, conservatory and 2 award-winning restaurants. There is also a lounge for teas, coffees and cream teas. Mobility Grade: 2 – It is a steep walk to the castle. There are nine steps to the main entrance and many unavoidable steps throughout the hotel and grounds. There are many bedrooms on the ground, however we do not recommend this hotel for those with impaired or reduced mobility.
Departs 7.00am
5 Nights
£1098
Returns 6.00pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £29 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Please note that mini coaches are used for island transfers and that our excursions to Tresco and St Martins or St Agnes involve transportation by boat. Therefore, due to the nature of this holiday, customers with mobility difficulties may be limited in their enjoyment. Also please remember that all air and sea journeys are weather permitting and that the itinerary may have to be varied for weather and tidal conditions. Please note that transfers to/from Land’s End will be via one of our extra legroom ‘Club Class’ coaches.
Insurance Premium Prices FROZEN – All Holiday Insurance Prices held at last year’s rates!
FALMOUTH & THE ROYAL DUCHY
4 Nights From: £669 Falmouth
Holiday Itinerary
Sunday After being collected from your home, we travel to Falmouth with comforts stops as required and a main stop for lunch before arriving late afternoon with time to relax before dinner.
Monday A day in Falmouth today. / Look What’s Included After your full breakfast we shall 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own transfer you to the town quay where courier service 4 Luxury Traveller we have arranged for a 2 hour river Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & cruise charter with commentary legroom (See pages 4 & 5) 4 Fully exploring the beautiful scenery and reclining seats with calf supports 4 Complimentary on board hot and wildlife along the Fal River. Free time to explore the town or you may like to cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB charging points 4 Complimentary gift return to the hotel. Plenty of great bag 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome pubs, cafes and restaurants to discover drinks reception 4 Cornish Cream Tea 4 2-Hr River Cruise 4 The Lost in the centre of town. Gardens of Heligan 4 Easy access Tuesday This morning we visit one train ride from St Erth to St Ives) of the most mysterious estates in 8 Not included: All lunches England. The former Tremayne Estate is home to the extraordinary Lost Gardens of Heligan, which have been remarkably restored to their former glory over the last thirty years. We continue to Truro, Cornwall’s Cathedral City. Wednesday Today we are immersed in the beauty of Cornwall’s west coast as we take in the spectacular golden sands and seascapes as we travel along the St Ives Bay Line. After free time in the picturesque town of St Ives, we continue by coach around Cape Cornwall, seeing legendary Land’s End and Penzance, where romantic St Michael’s Mount enchants from the sea. Thursday After breakfast we depart our hotel, returning home in the afternoon.
St Michael’s Mount
Your Holiday Hotel The Royal Duchy Hotel Situated in an unrivalled location overlooking Falmouth Bay yet close to the alleyways and streets of Falmouth. This hotel offers the perfect stay for those wishing to relax whilst enjoying the finest modern cuisine. It may not suit some and traditional it is not, but the 2 AA Rosettes restaurant offer a luxurious and mouthwatering experience not to be hurried! Leisure facilities include sun terrace, indoor swimming pool and snooker room. Mobility Grade: 4 – Cliff top position with Isolated steps throughout. Lift & disabled access.
The Royal Duchy’s Swimming Pool
Sun 11 – Thu 15 Oct 2020 Departs 8.00am
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£669
Returns 5.00pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Inland Double for Sole Use: £160 | Sea View: £80 Superior Inland: £40 | Deluxe Room: £160 | Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Brend Hotels – Impeccable standards of service, accommodation & food
LUXURY TRAVELLER
Falmouth, the main resort of the South Cornish Riviera, has won popularity with its visitors that extends throughout the year. It boasts one of the highest average sunshine records in Britain and the gardens have a profusion of sub-tropical plants. Falmouth has a marvellous harbour for a range of boats from yachts to large ocean going ships, overlooked by Pendennis Castle, one of Henry VIII’s forts. Along the main high street there are quaint old shops standing beside famous stores, and as you walk along you will catch glimpses of the colourful harbour through the picturesque alleyways.
© Flickr – Tim Green
Sumptuous luxury rooms & exquisite fine dining
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MULLION COVE & THE LIZARD PENINSULA Discover the secret
4 Nights From: £659
In a ‘World of its Own’, the Mullion Cove Hotel is a celebration of quality, style and service. Combining traditional values with modern amenities in a simply unrivalled coastal setting situated on the Lizard Peninsula in South Cornwall, the hotel stands on the cliff top overlooking the harbour and fishing cove with uninterrupted sea views. Holiday Itinerary
LUXURY TRAVELLER
Sunday We travel south, arriving at our hotel during the afternoon. Relax, settle in and enjoy a drinks reception before our first delicious evening meal. Monday After breakfast we travel to St Erth where we board the local train for the short journey to St Ives. Here we discover one of Cornwall’s best loved resorts with its cobbled streets, winding alleyways, historic harbour and quaint fisherman’s cottages. A mecca for artists for many years, the town is home to the Tate Gallery St. Ives.
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St Mawes
Your Holiday Hotel
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE The Mullion Cove Hotel
Tuesday We visit Porthleven – / Look What’s Included a historic and picturesque fishing 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own harbour overlooking Mounts Bay. courier service 4 Luxury Traveller We continue to Marazion, set on the Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & shores of Mount Bay with its clean legroom (See pages 4 & 5) 4 Fully sandy beaches and stunning views reclining seats with calf supports 4 Complimentary on board hot and towards Lizards Peninsula. Here, the cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB more energetic can visit St Michael’s charging points 4 Complimentary gift Mount, alternatively, why not relax bag 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome and soak up one of the finest views drinks reception 4 Cornish Cream Tea 4 Easy access train ride from St Erth in the country. We return to our hotel to St Ives 4 Trelissick Gardens (NT) in the afternoon for a cream tea. 8 Not included: All lunches Wednesday This Morning our excursion takes us to St. Mawes, situated on the Roseland Peninsula. A picturesque harbour with whitewashed houses is guarded by Henry VIII’s cloverleaf shaped St. Mawes Castle. Later we visit Trelissick Garden (NT). Situated on a peninsula with commanding magnificent views over the Fal Estuary, Trelissick surely has one of the best natural settings of any estate in the country. There are 30 acres of garden to explore, with Trelissick Garden twisting paths leading through important collections of hydrangeas, rhododendrons and ginger lilies, together with woodland plants and herbaceous borders that provide year-round colour and interest. Thursday After breakfast we depart our hotel, returning home in the afternoon. Sun 26 – Thu 30 Apr 2020
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£659
Sun 18 – Thu 22 Oct 2020
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£675
Departs 8.30am (Apr) 9.30am (Oct) Returns 6.00pm (Apr) 5.00pm (Oct) A unique and elegant destination on the Lizard Peninsula, the Mullion Cove Hotel features an AA rosette-winning restaurant and offers spectacular sea views. Atlantic View Restaurant, Art-Deco inspired bar, 3 lounges, garden & terrace. Mobility Grade: 4 – All ground floor facilities are on one level with lift access to all floors. The immediate locality is level, although the hotel does command a cliff top position.
Supplements Doubles for Sole Use: £100 | Sea View: £80 | Side Sea View: £40 Premier Sea View: £120 | Cove View Suite: £160 | Holiday Insurance: £28 These departures include the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Discounts Available for (NT) National Trust Members
More Luxury for Luxury Travellers
© VisitBritain – Britain on View
St Ives
CARLYON BAY HOTEL, ST AUSTELL Poldark & The Cream of Cornwall
4 Nights From: £659
With its extraordinary location, Carlyon Bay is a truly special hotel. Stunning views are to be had all year round, especially from the Bay View Restaurant. During your stay at Carlyon Bay, you can enjoy free use of the hotel’s stunning spa or relax in the lounge. Holiday Itinerary
Sunday A comfortable journey south, pausing for lunch en-route. Settle in and enjoy a drinks reception before taking your place in the restaurant to enjoy first class cuisine.
Charlestown
Your Holiday Hotel
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE Carlyon Bay Hotel, St Austell, Cornwall
Monday Today, we visit the Lost / Look What’s Included Gardens of Heligan for a guided tour. 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own There is so much to see in this secret courier service 4 Luxury Traveller kingdom including a sub-tropical Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & jungle, vegetable, flower & fruit legroom (See pages 4 & 5) 4 Fully gardens and the ‘Lost Valley’. Later we reclining seats with calf supports 4 Complimentary on board hot and continue to picture postcard fishing cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB village of Mevagissey where pubs, charging points 4 Complimentary gift cafes, galleries and shops cluster bag 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome around the harbour walls and line the drinks reception 4 Cornish Cream Tea 4 Guided tour of the Lost Gardens of pretty streets. We return to our hotel Heligan 4 Blue Badge Poldark themed for a sumptuous Cornish cream tea! tour 8 Not included: All lunches Tuesday We enjoy a full day with a blue badge guide for our Poldark themed tour taking in many of the places and inspirations for Winston Graham’s novel. We include the unspoilt harbour at Charlestown and capture the sheer beauty of the Cornish Coast with its turquoise water, secret coves that conjure up images of smugglers and pirates. Wednesday Our excursion today takes us to the lovely harbour town of Lost Gardens of Heligan Padstow, renowned for Rick Stein’s fish restaurant. Later we make our way to Tintagel, steeped in legend and mystery and said to be the birthplace of King Arthur. You might like to go to the visitor centre, King Arthur’s Halls or the castle itself (entry not included). On our return to our hotel, we pause in Boscastle. Its Elizabethan quay sits in an impressive amphitheatre of steep cliffs and is home to quaint stone-built cottages, shops and tea-rooms. Thursday After breakfast we depart our hotel returning home during the afternoon. Sun 4 – Thu 8 Oct 2020 Departs 9.00am
The hotel is set in 300 acres of grounds overlooking St Austell Bay and has truly inspiring views. Bay View Restaurant, bar and lounge, spa bath, sauna and solarium. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality – fairly level. Hotel – minor steps to main entrance with ramp alternative. Lift to all floors.
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£659
Returns 5.00pm
Supplements Single: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £160 | Sea View: £80 Deluxe Sea View: £160 | Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
For our customers who quite literally prefer a touch of extra luxury
LUXURY TRAVELLER
Carlyon Bay Hotel
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THURLESTONE HOTEL, SOUTH DEVON Salcombe – Kingsbridge – Dartmouth NEW TOUR
4 Nights From: £715 Dartmouth
Holiday Itinerary
LUXURY TRAVELLER
Salcombe
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Your Holiday Hotel The Thurlestone Hotel, Nr Kingsbridge, Devon The hotel is a luxurious, classic, family-run 4-star country hotel looking out across the sea. Relax, unwind and indulge in style, to get away from it all. Owned by the Grose family since 1896, The Thurlestone Hotel is in a class of its own. For over 120 years, guests have enjoyed its character, hospitality and first-class service. Restaurant with panoramic views, bar, lounge, gardens & terrace, separate Village Inn. 9-hole par 3 golf course, tennis courts, badminton, squash courts, croquet lawn. Indoor & outdoor pools and full leisure and spa facilities. Mobility Grade: 4 – Although the hotel is terraced into the local landscape, easy access throughout with lifts to all floors. Please note that due to the hotel’s restricted access for 13m coaches, daily transfers to/from the hotel will be provided from Kingsbridge by Tally Ho Coaches.
© VisitEngland – Visit South Devon
Sunday We travel south, arriving at Kingsbridge during the afternoon, and the short onward transfer to our hotel. Relax, settle in and enjoy a drinks reception before our first delicious evening meal.
Monday After breakfast we transfer to / Look What’s Included Kingsbridge before continuing to the 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own seafaring port of Dartmouth, with its courier service 4 Luxury Traveller imposing Royal Naval College. Here, Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & we include a scenic Dart River legroom (See pages 4 & 5) 4 Fully Cruise, so sit back, relax and enjoy reclining seats with calf supports 4 Complimentary on board hot and the wonderful scenery. We return via cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB Start Bay passing the shingle charging points 4 Complimentary gift beaches of Slapton Sands to bag 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome Torcross, where we can discover drinks reception 4 Devon Cream Tea 4 Dartmouth River Cruise 4 Saltram the Sherman Tank Memorial – House (NT) 8 Not included: All a memorial to the 749 American lunches Servicemen who lost their lives during the D-Day Landing rehearsals. Tuesday A morning excursion to nearby Salcombe, a beautiful coastal town sitting on the Salcombe estuary. The town is full of pretty boutique shops, where you’ll find high street brands and independent producers, as well as art galleries and gift shops. We return for a leisurely afternoon at our hotel where a cream tea will be Saltram House served. Wednesday Today our excursion takes us to Saltram (NT) – a magnificent Georgian mansion with tranquil parkland and gardens. One of the Trust’s hidden treasures, Saltram makes for a perfect day out – situated so close to Plymouth and yet in a world of its own! The magnificent house with its original contents gives a fascinating insight into the rich and sophisticated country-estate life. Thursday After breakfast we depart our hotel, returning home in the afternoon.
© www.geograph.org.uk – Derek Voller
Overlooking the beautiful coast of South Devon, the 4-star Thurlestone Hotel is a lovely destination for a relaxing break. It is the oldest family run hotel in the UK, being owned by the Grose family since 1896. Welcoming all, the hotel’s picturesque setting, with its breathtaking scenery, is a perfect base for a short break where you can simply unwind.
Sun 19 – Thu 23 Apr 2020
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£715
Sun 4 – Thu 8 Oct 2020
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£725
Departs 10.30am (Apr) 9.00am (Oct) Returns 4.30pm (Apr) 5.00pm (Oct) Supplements Doubles for Sole Use: £80 | Sea View: £80 Double for Sole Use Sea View: £240 | Holiday Insurance: £28 These departures include the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Discounts Available for (NT) National Trust Members
More Luxury for Luxury Travellers
TORQUAY TREATS At the Imperial Hotel NEW TOUR
5 Nights From: £785
Torquay, at the heart of the English ‘Riviera’, is a stylish resort with a real continental atmosphere. One of the UK’s top holiday destinations since Victorian times, today it’s an exciting resort with a wide variety of attractions including a palm-lined promenade, international marina, shops and cafés, and 22 miles of coastline, cliffs, coves and beaches! Sunday We travel south, arriving in Torquay during the afternoon. Settle into our rooms and enjoy a drinks reception before our first delicious evening meal. Monday Today we travel via Totnes and visit Buckfast Abbey. Nestling in the shadow of Dartmoor in a beautiful wooded valley beside the River Dart, the Abbey offers visitors a tranquil refuge from the hectic pace of everyday life. The Abbey is a working monastery where a community of Benedictine monks live self-sufficiently, welcoming visitors from all around the world. At the heart of the site is the Abbey Church surrounded by Dartmouth Steam Railway beautiful gardens and within the Abbey precinct visitors can browse in the bookshop and gift shop and perhaps enjoy refreshments in the Grange restaurant.
Your Holiday Hotel Imperial Hotel, Torquay This hotel has an enviable location with extensive views of the coastline. Traditional in style, the public areas are elegant and offer a choice of dining options including the Regatta Restaurant, with its stunning views over the bay. Britannia Bar, bedrooms are spacious, most with private balconies, and the hotel has an extensive range of leisure facilities, including indoor & outdoor swimming pools, sauna, spa, solarium & Jacuzzi. Mobility Grade: 4 – Torquay itself is quite hilly but around the hotel is generally flat. There are a few isolated steps but all rooms served by a lift.
© Flickr – David Leather
Holiday Itinerary
Tuesday Today we enjoy an excursion / Look What’s Included via the South Devon coastline through 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own Shaldon, Teignmouth to Dawlish, renowned for its black swans that can courier service 4 Luxury Traveller Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & often be seen swimming on the brook. legroom (See pages 4 & 5) 4 Fully We continue to the resort of Sidmouth, reclining seats with calf supports described as the quintessential English 4 Complimentary on board hot and cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB seaside resort and winner of a gold charging points 4 Complimentary gift award in the Britain in Bloom bag 4 5 nights half board 4 Welcome competition. This lovely unspoilt resort drinks reception 4 Devon Cream Tea 4 Return ride on the Dartmouth Steam with its fine Regency architecture, elegant promenade and red sandstone Railway, River Dart Ferry crossing & Dart River Cruise 8 Not included: All cliffs overlooks the waters of Lyme Bay lunches on a stretch of designated World Heritage coastline. Wednesday A Day at leisure for you to enjoy Torquay. Thursday This morning we head for nearby Paignton, where we board our train on the former Great Western branch line, which takes us along the coast past Goodrington Sands and alongside the River Dart Estuary to Kingswear. Here we take the passenger ferry across the river to the seafaring port of Dartmouth, with its imposing Royal Naval College, to board our river cruise. Sit back and enjoy the wonderful scenery – wooded slopes, secret creeks and Dartmouth enviable houses dotted along the banks of the River Dart. Friday After breakfast we depart our hotel, returning home in the afternoon. Sun 21 – Fri 26 June 2020 Departs 10.00am
Lux Tvl Coach
5 Nights
£785
Returns 5.00pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £125 | Holiday Insurance: £29 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
For our customers who quite literally prefer a touch of extra luxury
LUXURY TRAVELLER
Torquay
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THE IMPERIAL HOTEL, BARNSTAPLE Picturebook North Devon
4 Nights From: £569 The Imperial Hotel
Beautiful, wild, green North Devon. This corner of the south-west epitomises unspoiled rural England, with narrow lanes and a rugged coastline dotted with fishing villages. Memories are made here, in as signs of spring begin to appear everywhere; there are spring flowers galore, and the sound of new born lambs is starting to be heard. Holiday Itinerary
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Barnstaple Pannier Market
Your Holiday Hotel
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE The Imperial Hotel, Barnstaple
© www.geograph.org.uk – Derek Voller
LUXURY TRAVELLER
Day 1 We travel south, making a suitable lunch stop en-route, arriving at our hotel mid-afternoon. Relax, settle in and enjoy a drinks reception before our first delicious evening meal.
Day 2 We visit RHS Rosemoor / Look What’s Included Gardens. This 40-acre garden, lying in 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own the Torridge Valley, close to Great courier service 4 Luxury Traveller Torrington, offers a something for all Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & garden lovers: * The mature Lady legroom (See pages 4 & 5) 4 Fully Anne’s Garden and its adjacent reclining seats with calf supports 4 Complimentary on board hot and arboretum * Formal gardens * Rock cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB gorge * Stream & bog gardens charging points 4 Complimentary gift * Enchanting lake * 200 variety of bag 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome roses * Colour themed gardens * Herb drinks reception 4 Entrance to RHS Rosemoor Gardens 4 Guided tour of garden & potager * Extensive herbaceous borders * Cottage garden Hartland Abbey with included cream * Foliage & plantsman’s garden * Fruit tea 8 Not Included: All lunches & vegetable garden. Day 3 In the morning we are free to enjoy the old-world charm and friendly atmosphere of Barnstaple’s historic Pannier Market. Today’s market specialises in antiques and collectibles. In the afternoon, we visit the charming village of Woolacombe, where magnificent scenery meets the swell of the Atlantic waves along the spectacular North Devon coast. Return to our hotel for evening dinner. Day 4 Today we enjoy a visit to Hartland Abbey, the cherished home of the Stucley family with treasures and memorabilia collected over many generations. (Guided Tour & Cream Tea included). The beautiful 18th century walled and woodland gardens, the walks and the parkland provide visitors with extensive grounds through which to wander and enjoy the stunning valley leading down to the rugged Atlantic cove and cottage at Blackpool Mill. Day 5 After breakfast we depart our hotel and after making a suitable stop for lunch en-route we arrive home in the afternoon. EASTER Mon 13 – Fri 17 Apr 2020
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£569
Sun 26 – Thu 30 July 2020
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£645
Departs 9.00am Located in the centre of Barnstaple, overlooking the River Taw, just a short walk from the shops. With the old-style charm of a traditional townhouse hotel, the Imperial has become a firm favourite of our clients. Restaurant, ‘Colours’ Bar, comfortable lounge and garden terrace. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality flat. Hotel: Public areas level. Lift to all floors.
Returns 5.30pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Inland Double for Sole Use: £100 (Apr) £160 (Jul) River View: £100 | River View Deluxe: £140 | Holiday Insurance: £28 Reductions available for RHS Members These departures include the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Brend Hotels – Impeccable standards of service, accommodation & food
SAUNTON SANDS & North Devon’s Atlantic Coast
4 Nights From: £735
Holiday Itinerary
Sunday We travel south, making a suitable lunch stop en-route, arriving at our hotel mid-afternoon. Relax, settle in and enjoy a drinks reception before our first delicious evening meal. Monday This morning we journey to the pretty harbour town and seaside resort of Ilfracombe. Here we include a spectacular ‘Exmoor Cliffs Cruise’ aboard the Ilfracombe Princess. Lasting 90 minutes, we sail through an area of outstanding natural beauty discovering some of the highest cliffs in England, lighthouses, mines and immense seascapes. With regular sightings of seals, dolphins and nesting birds and the spectacular Sherracombe Falls – you may want to bring your binoculars!
Your Holiday Hotel
Exmoor Cliffs
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE Saunton Sands Hotel, Nr Braunton
This elegant, 4-star art deco hotel has a spectacular setting overlooking one of the finest beaches in Devon – an idyllic three-mile stretch of smooth golden sands. Restaurant, café, bar, lounges, snooker/billiards, leisure complex with sauna, solarium, gymnasium & beauty salon/manicure. Mobility Grade: 3 – Seafront location with public rooms and bedrooms on different levels, however all floors are served by a lift.
Tuesday We head first to Arlington / Look What’s Included Court (NT) – an unexpected jewel on 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own the edge of Exmoor! This delightful courier service 4 Luxury Traveller house, is set in extensive parkland Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & with lovely gardens and is home to a legroom (See pages 4 & 5) 4 Fully collection of treasures for all tastes, reclining seats with calf supports 4 Complimentary on board hot and from model ships to shells, collected cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB over several generations. The house charging points 4 Complimentary gift itself, built in 1823 and extended in bag 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome 1860, has an austere facade. However, drinks reception 4 Ilfracombe inside the cosy rooms purvey a homely, Princess ‘Exmoor Cliffs Cruise’ 4 Arlington Court & Carriage Museum family atmosphere. We also visit the Tour (NT) with a Cream Tea Carriage Museum with its impressive 4 Dartington Crystal & RHS Rosemoor collection of horse-drawn vehicles, 8 Not Included: All lunches here we have included a cream tea. Wednesday Today we visit Dartington Crystal, where we will be given a brief introduction to the Dartington Crystal experience, followed by the chance to see some of the exhibits in the visitor centre, Rosemoor Gardens where we will also be able to see the glassblowers at work. Next, we visit Rosemoor Gardens (RHS) where a member of staff will give you a talk on the history of the garden how it was developed, and its plans for the future. There will be ample time to stroll around the enchanted gardens which are one of the top RHS gardens in the country, set in the Torridge Valley. Thursday After breakfast we depart our hotel and after making a suitable stop for lunch en-route we arrive home in the afternoon. Sun 14 – Thu 18 June 2020 Departs 9.30am
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£735
Returns 5.00pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Inland Double for Sole Use: £180 Sea View: £80 | Deluxe Rooms: £140 | Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Discounts available for (NT) National Trust & RHS Members
More Luxury for Luxury Travellers
LUXURY TRAVELLER
The Saunton Sands hotel is a classic 4-star luxury Brend Hotel overlooking three miles of Atlantic facing golden sands backed by some of the highest sand dunes in the country. Popular with surfers it is one of the biggest gems in the North Devon crown.
© Flickr_Kerry Garratt
Saunton Sands
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LUXURY SIDMOUTH At the Victoria or Belmont Hotel
4 Nights From: £629 Sidmouth
Holiday Itinerary (May – August Departures)
Sunday Making a suitable lunch stop en-route, we arrive at our hotel midafternoon. Enjoy a drinks reception before your first delicious evening meal. Monday Today after breakfast we travel to the seaside town of Seaton where we take a return ride on its unique narrow- gauge tramway travelling through the Axe Valley. Afterwards there will be a short break before rejoin the coach and travel to the Donkey Sanctuary for a short visit. We continue back to Sidmouth and our hotel. Tuesday A free day to explore Sidmouth. In the afternoon, make the most of our hotels luxurious surroundings and enjoy a sumptuous Devon cream tea! Wednesday A morning in the Cathedral city of Exeter to explore at leisure. In the afternoon we continue to Exmouth for a circular cruise along the peaceful waters of the River Exe, viewing the stunning scenery, wildlife and nature of this award-winning river. Thursday After breakfast we depart our hotel returning home during the afternoon.
Your Holiday Hotels
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE
LUXURY TRAVELLER
The Victoria Hotel, Sidmouth
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The Victoria stands proudly at the western end of Sidmouth seafront, in 5 acres of manicured grounds which offer truly glorious views over the bay and is only a short walk from the timeless charms of the town centre. Restaurant, lounge/bar, sun lounge, games room, snooker room & table tennis, indoor pool, sauna & solarium. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality – Fairly level. Hotel – Occasional steps with lift to all floors.
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE The Belmont Hotel, Sidmouth A luxurious former Victorian summer residence, the hotel retains much of its tranquility and charm. It stands at the end of Sidmouth’s striking esplanade and is just a short stroll from the town centre. Elegant restaurant, bar/lounge, delightful gardens and use of superb leisure facilities at the Victoria Hotel next door. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality – fairly level. Hotel – occasional steps, some bedrooms have steps inside the rooms. Lift to all floors.
Included Excursions on Easter Monday Apr 13th Tour Tue: At leisure in Sidmouth, followed by a sumptuous Devon cream tea! Wed: Bicton Park Botanical Gardens and a drive along the East Devon Heritage Coast to Exmouth. Thu: The coastal resort of Lyme Regis. (Please note that access to the town and promenade from the coach park is via a steep incline and may prove challenging for those with reduced mobility). For further information on this tour please see P52 of our 2019/20 autumn, winter, and spring brochure.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Luxury Traveller
Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & legroom (See pages 4 & 5) 4 Fully reclining seats with calf supports 4 Complimentary on board hot and cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB charging points 4 Complimentary gift bag 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome drinks reception 4 Devon Cream Tea 4 Bicton Park Botanical Gardens (Apr Only) 4 The Seaton Tramway 4 The Donkey Sanctuary 4 Exe River Cruise 8 Not included: All lunches
Seaton Tramway
EASTER Mon 13 – Fri 17 Apr 2020 Victoria Hotel
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£629
Sun 24 – Thu 28 May 2020 Belmont Hotel
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£699
Sun 31 May – Thu 4 Jun 2020 Victoria Hotel
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£709
Sun 19 – Thu 23 July 2020 Belmont Hotel
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£719
Sun 9 – Thu 13 August 2020 Belmont Hotel
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£699
Sun 23 – Thu 27 August 2020 Belmont Hotel
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£709
Departs 9.00am (Apr) 10.30am (May-Aug) Returns 5.30pm (24 Apr & 31 May) 4.30pm (24 May, 19 Jul & 9 Aug) 4.00pm (23 Aug) Supplements Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £160 (Apr) £180 (May-Aug) Sea View: £80 (Apr) £60 (May-Aug) Deluxe Rooms: £140 (Apr) £120 (May-Aug) | Holiday Insurance: £28 These departures include the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Brend Hotels – Impeccable standards of service, accommodation & food
© Flickr – Alison Day
Sidmouth still retains a ‘special’ elegance that understandably makes it our most popular seaside location. Nestling in an area of outstanding natural beauty on the Jurassic Coast the town lies at the centre of a gentle curving bay, enclosed by red sandstone cliffs and has a level promenade with fine golden sandy beaches.
ISLE OF WIGHT GRAND DESIGNS Houses & Gardens of Distinction
4 Nights From: £789 Osborne House
Godshill Model Village
Your Holiday Hotel
© Godshill Model Village
Sunday We drive to Southampton for our ferry crossing to the Island, arriving at our hotel during the mid-afternoon. Monday Today we have included a visit to Osborne House (EH). “It is impossible to imagine a prettier spot” said Queen Victoria of Osborne House, her palatial holiday home on the Isle of Wight. Visit Victoria and Albert’s private apartments, their bathing beach and children’s play-cottage for an intimate glimpse of royal family life. Then stroll through the garden terraces where the stunning views across the Solent reminded Prince Albert of the Bay of Naples. We also visit nearby Whippingham Church, where Victoria and Albert were once regular members of the congregation.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Luxury Traveller Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & legroom (See pages 4 & 5) 4 Fully reclining seats with calf supports 4 Complimentary on board hot and cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB charging points 4 Complimentary gift bag 4 Return Ferry Crossing 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome drinks reception 4 Cream Tea 4 Entrances to Osborne House (EH) & Whippingham Church 4 Ventnor Botanic Gardens 4 Guided tour of Nunwell House & Gardens 4 Godshill Model Village 8 Not Included: All lunches
Ventnor Botanic Gardens
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE The Royal Hotel, Ventnor, Isle of Wight Set in the coastal town of Ventnor, the hotel has outstanding views of the Isle of Wight’s breathtaking coastline. Restaurant, bar, terrace, conservatory, lounges and beautiful gardens. Mobility Grade: 3 – Location generally level, steep slope to the beach. Lift serves some floors. Occasional steps in public areas.
Sun 28 June – Thu 2 July 2020
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£789
Sun 13 – Thu 17 September 2020
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£789
Departs 10.00am (Jun) 9.00am (Sep) Returns 6.00pm (Jun) 5.30pm (Sep) Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £140 Garden View Single: £80 | Travel Insurance: £28 These departures include the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Discounts available for (EH) English Heritage Members
More Luxury for Luxury Travellers
LUXURY TRAVELLER
Holiday Itinerary
Tuesday This morning we visit the superb Botanic Garden and Visitors Centre, followed by free time in the afternoon to discover the delights of Ventnor. Later enjoy a delicious cream tea at our hotel. Wednesday We visit one of the Isle of Wight’s most beautiful historic houses – Nunwell House & Gardens at Brading. Set in five acres of tranquil gardens with a stunning historic view overlooking Natural Parkland, Brading Haven, Bembridge Harbour and across the Solent. Our guided tour of the house takes us back through time architecturally with Victorian, Georgian and Jacobean sections to be viewed. There are five acres of tranquil garden including a 18th century walled garden, lavender steps and mature borders. Next, we continue to the picture-postcard setting of Godshill, where we include entrance to the marvellous Model Village – a 1/10 scale model of Godshill and Shanklin Old Town that nestles in the grounds of the Old Vicarage. Set in nearly two acres of gorgeous landscaped gardens this is truly a quintessentially English visitor attraction. Thursday After breakfast we visit Newport – the Principle and Historic Town of the Island, before continuing to Cowes for our ferry back to the mainland and our journey homeward.
© Flickr – Matt Brown
The unique and irresistible charm of the Isle of Wight has prompted us to capture the essence of the island’s historic heritage and stunning gardens.
25
LUXURY EASTBOURNE
4 Nights From: £654 Eastbourne
The elegant seaside resort of Eastbourne has five miles of unspoilt beaches and palm tree lined promenade with exquisite floral and garden displays. Holiday Itinerary
LUXURY TRAVELLER
Great Dixter
26
Your Holiday Hotel The Hydro Hotel, Eastbourne Set in award-winning gardens, the Hydro Hotel features an outdoor pool, elegant restaurant and superb sea views. The hotel is a few yards from Eastbourne Seafront, just a 10-minute walk from Eastbourne Pier and a 20-minute walk from the main town centre. The Crystal Restaurant serves classic British and French cuisine for evening dining. Guests can enjoy beverages and light snacks in the cosy lounges, and hearty cooked breakfasts are available daily. Beauty salon, offering a range of specialist treatments and therapies. Poolside terrace, which features sun loungers and parasols. Mobility Grade: 3 – Easy access throughout the hotel with occasional steps in public areas. Lift to all floors.
© Flickr – JR P
Monday We travel south with a suitable stop for lunch en-route before arriving at our hotel for our 4-night stay. Tuesday Today we visit Rye – Perched on a hill, this medieval town is so charming with its unhurried streets which holds many treasures. Luxury shops, antiques and artisan goods are all together on cobbled streets along narrow passageways. Depart at 1.30pm for a short trip by your coach to the nearby Kent & East Sussex Railway station at Northiam, to catch the steam train to Bodiam, which then returns to Tenterden, where our coach will be waiting to return you to our hotel.
Wednesday Today, we visit Great / Look What’s Included Dixter for a private tour of the house 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own and an exclusive chance to wander courier service 4 Luxury Traveller round the superb renowned gardens, Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and the legroom (See pages 4 & 5) 4 Fully home of the late Christopher Lloyd reclining seats with calf supports 4 Complimentary on board hot and OBE, who devoted his lifetime to creating one of the most experimental cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB charging points 4 Complimentary gift gardens of our time. Afterwards we bag 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome visit Battle Abbey (EH) – On this spot drinks reception 4 Cream Tea 4 Train ride on the Kent & East Sussex Railway in the year 1066, the armies of King 4 Private Tour of Great Dixter House & Harold and William the Conqueror Gardens 4 Entrance to Battle Abbey clashed at the Battle of Hastings. (EH) 8 Not Included: All lunches Now you can stand on the very site where this decisive struggle was fought, and England’s future decided! Explore the abbey ruins and enjoy the gatehouse exhibition revealing the abbey’s role in the country’s future. Thursday A day of leisure to enjoy Eastbourne. Maybe take a stroll and see some beautiful views of Beachy Head, the highest chalk sea cliffs in the UK. Alternatively, you could visit the Redoubt Fort, built to keep the Napoleonic armies out of Britain, it now tells the story of over 200 years Kent & East Sussex Railway of naval history. At the sheltered western most end of Eastbourne is the Italian Garden a delightful, quiet place, where you can simply enjoy the views. In the afternoon enjoy an included Cream Tea at the hotel Friday A leisurely drive homeward arriving home during the afternoon. Mon 25 – Fri 29 May 2020
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£654
Mon 21 – Fri 25 Sep 2020
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£662
Departs 10.00am (May) 9.30am (Sep) Returns 5.00pm (May) 6.00pm (Sep) Supplements Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £28 These departures include the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Reductions Available for (EH) English Heritage Members
More Luxury for Luxury Travellers
©VisitEastbourne
At the Hydro Hotel
CONSTABLE COUNTRY With highlights of Suffolk & East Anglia
© Flickr – Peter Taylor
4 Nights From: £659 Audley End House
Melford Hall
Your Holiday Hotel Stoke by Nayland Hotel, Stoke by Nayland, Nr Colchester A modern country hotel set in 300 acres of undulating ‘Constable Country’ within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Lakes Restaurant and Bar. Spa with indoor pool, gym, treatment rooms and a 28-hole golf course. Mobility Grade: 5 – Locality level. Hotel is level with a lift to all floors.
© www.geograph.org.uk – G Laird
Monday Our outward journey includes a convenient stop for lunch en-route, before arriving at our hotel for our 4-night stay. Tuesday We meet our Blue Badge guide and explore Constable Country. Located on the Suffolk and Essex border – East Bergholt is the site of John Constable’s Studio and St Mary’s Church, built in the 15th and 16th centuries and renowned for the absence of a tower or spire to house the bells – at Dedham our tour takes in sights such as Constable’s School and Dedham Parish Church, dedicated to St Mary the Virgin in 1492 – Bridge Cottage at Flatford is located upstream from Flatford Mill and houses an exhibition on John Constable, several of whose paintings famously feature the mill. We return to our hotel in the late afternoon for a Cream Tea.
Mon 29 Jun – Fri 3 Jul 2020
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£665
Mon 31 Aug – Fri 4 Sep 2020
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£659
Departs 10.00am (Jun) 10.30am (Aug) Returns 5.30pm (Jun) 5.00pm (Aug) Supplements Single Room: £118 | Holiday Insurance: £28 These departures include the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Reductions available for (NT) National Trust & (EH) English Heritage Members
For our customers who quite literally prefer a touch of extra luxury
LUXURY TRAVELLER
Holiday Itinerary
Wednesday We visit Lavenham, one / Look What’s Included of England’s finest medieval villages 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own with a 15th century church and the courier service 4 Luxury Traveller Guildhall, an early 16th century Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & timber framed building that dominates legroom (See pages 4 & 5) 4 Fully the Market Place. Later we visit reclining seats with calf supports Melford Hall (NT), one of East Anglia’s 4 Complimentary on board hot and cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB most celebrated Elizabethan houses charging points 4 Complimentary where little has changed externally gift bag 4 4 nights half board since 1578. 4 Welcome drinks reception 4 Cream Tea 4 Constable Country Thursday This morning we visit the Guided Tour 4 Entrance to Melford National Trust’s Sutton Hoo, an Hall (NT) 4 Entrance to Sutton Hoo Anglo-Saxon royal burial site where (NT) 4 Entrance to Audley End House the priceless Sutton Hoo treasure was (EH) 8 Not Included: All lunches discovered in a huge ship grave in 1939. We continue to the picturesque 16th century fishing village of Aldeburgh, renowned for its festival of music and arts, where Benjamin Britten lived and worked for the last two decades of his life. Friday We are homeward bound. En-route, we visit Audley End House (EH), one of England’s grandest stately homes. Equipped with original and reproduction Victorian fixtures and Lavenham fittings the house creates an atmospheric portrait of daily Victorian life – from butler and cook down to dairy maids and lowly houseboy. The historic stables come complete with resident horses and a Victorian groom. Add the beautiful grounds, the working Organic Kitchen Garden and Audley End offers a fascinating insight into the past.
© Flickr – Martin Pettitt
We combine the beautiful pastoral views and picturesque villages of Constable Country, with some delightful East Anglian countryside and peaceful coastline.
27
TREASURED HOUSES OF NORFOLK
4 Nights From: £685 Holkham Hall
LUXURY TRAVELLER
Sunday Travelling east we head to Rutland Water Park for a cruise around this stunning water reservoir before continuing to Stamford, where you are free to explore this interesting town. In the afternoon we continue to our hotel in West Norfolk, for our 4-night stay. Monday On the stunning north Norfolk coast, surrounded by rolling parkland, lies Holkham Hall, an 18th century masterpiece. The Palladian-style stately home is a treasure trove with incredible architecture, art, original furniture and classical statuary. The collection includes works by Rubens, Van Dyck, Gaspar Peckover House Poussin, Claude and Gainsborough. A Cream Tea is included during our visit. Tuesday Located just six miles from our hotel, we discover Sandringham House & Gardens. This estate is the much-loved Norfolk retreat of her Majesty the Queen. The magnificent stately house is set in 24 hectares of stunning landscaped gardens with a museum that is home to an extraordinary collection of memorabilia.
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Your Holiday Hotel
© Flickr – PaulR1800
Holiday Itinerary
Wednesday Today we visit Oxburgh / Look What’s Included Hall (NT) – a moated manor house 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own with a Tudor gatehouse. The rooms show the development from medieval courier service 4 Luxury Traveller Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & austerity to Victorian comfort and legroom (See pages 4 & 5) 4 Fully includes a display of embroideries reclining seats with calf supports 4 Complimentary on board hot and by Mary Queen of Scots and Bess cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB of Hardwick. charging points 4 Complimentary gift Thursday On our homeward journey bag 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome we visit Peckover House (NT) – drinks reception 4 Rutland Water Cruise 4 Entrances to Holkham Hall an elegant Georgian town house (with a cream tea), Royal overlooking the River Nene. Built in Oxburgh Hall (NT) & 1722, the house has some fine interiors Sandringham, Peckover House (NT) 8 Not Included: including a wealth of elaborate wood All lunches and plaster decoration, panelled walls and fine Georgian fireplaces with carved over mantels. Outside, the gardens are outstanding and include an orangery, summer-houses, croquet lawn and rose garden with over 60 varieties of rose.
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE Best Western Plus Knights Hill Hotel, South Wootton, Nr Kings Lynn
Located just four miles from King’s Lynn town centre, the hotel has evolved from a working farm into the stylish, character filled accommodation you see today. 79 bedrooms, a number having patios leading into the walled garden. Elegant restaurant. Farmers Arms traditional country pub. Leisure club with indoor pool, sauna, gym & spa. Mobility Grading: 3 – Locality & Hotel are generally level. No Lift but ground floor rooms with easy access available.
Sandringham House
Sun 31 May – Thu 4 Jun 2020
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£685
Sun 30 Aug – Thu 3 Sep 2020
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£685
Departs 8.30am
Returns 5.30pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil (within initial allocation) | Holiday Insurance: £28 These departures include the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Reductions available for (NT) National Trust Members
More Luxury for Luxury Travellers
© Flickr – Phil McIver
West Norfolk is a truly special place of unspoilt charm and natural beauty. Brimming full of heritage and renowned for its stunning coastline and unspoilt countryside, it is the ideal place to explore, unwind and soak up the sheer sense of space and tranquillity.
© VisitEngland – Iain Lewis
At the Knights Hill Hotel
ROMANTIC JOURNEYS OF NORTH NORFOLK
4 Nights From: £719 Bure Valley Railway
Your Holiday Hotel The Pheasant Hotel, Kelling The Pheasant is a charming country house hotel set in its own extensive grounds, enjoying a peaceful rural location in the small village of Kelling, making it an ideal base from which to explore the beautiful north Norfolk coast and the surrounding villages of Cley and Blakeney. All bedrooms are beautifully presented and very comfortable. Restaurant, bar, terrace & gardens. Mobility Grade: 4 – 24 Rooms on ground floor all accessed by gentle slope (no stairs). All other rooms are on the first floor (accessible via stairs).
© Flickr – Timelapsed
Sunday Travelling east we make a stop for lunch in Peterborough, then to our hotel in North Norfolk, for our 4-night stay. Monday Today we combine a nostalgic steam train ride with a cruise on the Norfolk Broads. We begin at Aylsham where we join the Bure Valley Railway for the 9 miles ride to Wroxham. At Wroxham we join the boat for a cruise around the Broads, and we then then travel through some of the delightful Broads villages, such as Woodbastwick, with its diminutive green and thatched cottages. Felbrigg Hall Tuesday After breakfast, we visit Thursford, to see the world’s largest collection of steam engines and organs. This is followed by a rare treat! – A visit to Stody Lodge Gardens – a spectacular 14-acre rhododendron and azalea gardens just outside Holt.
© Flickr – Michael Button
Holiday Itinerary
Wednesday This morning our / Look What’s Included destination is Felbrigg Hall (NT) one 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own of the most elegant country houses in courier service 4 Luxury Traveller East Anglia. Truly a hidden gem, the Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & Hall is a place of surprises and legroom (See pages 4 & 5) 4 Fully delights, a mixture of opulence and reclining seats with calf supports 4 Complimentary on board hot and homeliness where each room has cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB something to feed the imagination. charging points 4 Complimentary gift Outside, the decorative and productive bag 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome walled garden is a gardener’s delight, drinks reception 4 Cream Tea 4 Norfolk Broads Cruise & Bure Valley providing fruit and vegetables for the Railway Train Ride 4 Entrance to restaurant, flowers for the hall and Thursford & Stody Lodge Gardens inspiration. The rolling landscape park 4 Entrance to Felbrigg Hall (NT) with a lake, 520 acres of woods and 8 Not Included: All lunches waymarked trails is a great place to explore the nature and wildlife on this bountiful estate, with the gardens never failing to delight and inspire. See the fruit and vegetables growing in the walled garden, the beehives in the orchard and the magnificent redwood trees in the west garden and Felbrigg has one of the few octagonal working dovecotes in the country, dating back to the early 1750s. Thursday Homeward Bound.
Wroxham
Sun 17 May – Thu 21 May 2020 Departs 9.30am
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£719
Returns 5.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £119 | Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Reductions available for (NT) National Trust Members
For our customers who quite literally prefer a touch of extra luxury
LUXURY TRAVELLER
A visit to Norfolk offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of busy Britain. The coast and countryside offer areas of outstanding beauty and diversity, with hills and undulating fields, wooded valleys, forest areas and marshes. North Norfolk is almost England in miniature. Around every corner you will find pretty villages and historic churches, miles of unspoilt beaches and rivers teeming with wildlife
© Flickr – Michael Button
At the Pheasant Hotel, Kelling
29
LUXURY TRAVELLER IN KENDAL & The Southern Lake District
4 Nights From: £749
Spoil yourself and indulge in this superb holiday with a touch of class to the stunning Lake District. Based in an excellent hotel on the outskirts of Kendal we are ideally placed to enjoy some of the hidden treasures associated with the stunning Southern Lake District.
LUXURY TRAVELLER
Sunday We drive north, pausing for a suitable stop for lunch en-route, arriving at our hotel for our 4-night stay. Monday Today we visit Kendal, home of the famous mint cake. The town has a rich and varied history and offers great shopping and attractions for you to explore. Later, we visit Levens Hall – an Elizabethan mansion, built around a 13th century pele tower. Home to the Bagot family containing superb panelling, plaster work and period furniture. In the grounds, the world-famous topiary gardens were first laid out in 1694 by Monsieur Beaumont. Location for the BBC’s “Wives and Daughters” period drama series. A Guided tour of the house is included followed by an afternoon cream tea.
30
Levens Hall
Your Holiday Hotel Best Western Premier Castle Green Hotel, Kendal Our hotel stands on the outskirts of Kendal, set in 14 acres of natural gardens and woodland, it offers modern comfortable facilities in all 99 rooms. Restaurant, Bar. Guests can also enjoy complimentary use of Pulse, Health and Fitness club with pool, steam room, gym or book treatments for The Green Rooms Spa. Mobility Grade: 3 – Located on hill with beautiful views of Kendal Castle and surrounding Lakeland Fells. Level access throughout Lift to most floors (Not to new extension and Executive Floor Rooms).
© Levens Hall Kendal Cumbria
Holiday Itinerary
Tuesday A leisurely morning begins / Look What’s Included with a short heritage railway journey 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own from Haverthwaite to Lakeside, courier service 4 Luxury Traveller followed by a cruise on Lake Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & Windermere to Bowness. After legroom (See pages 4 & 5) 4 Fully disembarking there is time to explore reclining seats with calf supports 4 Complimentary on board hot and this popular holiday village at leisure. cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB There are cafes, restaurants, shops charging points 4 Complimentary gift and places to visit, such as the World bag 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome of Beatrix Potter attraction. drinks reception 4 Guided Tour of Wednesday Travel to the southern tip Levens Hall with Cream Tea included of the Cartmel Peninsula where we visit 4 Haverthwaite to Lakeside Railway & Windermere Cruise 4 Entrance to the quiet seaside retreat of GrangeHolker Hall 8 Not Included: All over-Sands. Grange is a pretty resort lunches with an Edwardian flavour located on the shores of Morecambe Bay. Next, we continue to Holker Hall – home of the Cavendish family, and is one of the best-loved stately homes in Britain. Holker Hall and Gardens are set within beautiful countryside, here you can see Queen Mary’s bedroom, the Dukes bedroom, the main hall, the library and gallery and the oak staircase. Thursday We bid farewell to the hotel and travel to Lancaster, an historic town with a daily market. St. Georges Quay and its Custom House on the River Lune is a reminder that Holker Hall Lancaster was once a busy port handling more cargo tonnage than Liverpool! We depart Lancaster after lunch and continue homewards. Sun 20 – Thu 24 Sep 2020 Departs 9.00am
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
© Holker Estate
Lake Windermere
£749
Returns 6.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £140 | Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
More Luxury for Luxury Travellers
LAKES & LEGENDS And the Hundith Hill Hotel
4 Nights From: £709 Keswick
Your Holiday Hotel The Hundith Hill Hotel, Nr Cockermouth The Hundith Hill Hotel is a former country house and sits in 14-acres of its own grounds surrounded by the beautiful Lorton Valley. Just a mile and a half away from the charming town of Cockermouth and with views of the Cumbrian fells, it is the perfect location for exploring the Lake District which is just a short drive away. With 25 bedrooms and facilities that are some of the finest in the area, this superb hotel is a welcome addition to our programme. Bar/lounge and restaurant. Mobility Grading: 3 – Locality & hotel are generally level with easy access throughout. Rooms are mainly on first & second floors, with a limited number of ground floor rooms.
© Flickr – Peter Trimming
Ravenglass Eskdale Railway
/ Look What’s Included Sunday We drive north, pausing for 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own a suitable stop for lunch en-route, courier service 4 Luxury Traveller arriving at our hotel for our 4-night stay. Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & Monday Today we take in the legroom (See pages 4 & 5) 4 Fully stunning scenery as we make our way reclining seats with calf supports 4 Complimentary on board hot and to Muncaster Castle with its 70-acre cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB garden and World Owl Centre, charging points 4 Complimentary gift entrance included. Following our visit, bag 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome drinks reception 4 Muncaster Castle we head to Ravenglass for a journey and the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam 4 Gretna 1754 & Lanercost Priory (EH), Railway. More affectionately known as with Cream Tea 4 Hutton-in-the“La’al Ratty” our journey takes us from Forest 8 Not Included: All lunches the coast to the foothills of England’s highest mountain through the Eskdale Valley to Boot Station and the visitor centre at Dalegarth. Tuesday We drive north into the Scottish Borders, visiting Gretna Green 1754, where we experience a fun wedding re-enactment and discover the Gretna Green Story. We continue to the beautiful and now tranquil setting of Lanercost Priory (EH), an Augustinian monastery dating back to the 12th century. Standing close to Hadrian’s Wall, it suffered frequent attacks during the long Anglo-Scottish wars. Today visitors can explore the well-preserved chancel and transepts, still remaining at their full height. Discover the interesting history of the Priory, and what happened when the priory was dissolved in 1538 (Inc Cream Tea in the tea rooms). Wednesday A morning visit to Hutton-in-the Forest, a beautiful house, set in woods which were once part of a medieval forest. The house consists of a 14th century pele tower and contains a fine collection of furniture, portraits, tapestries and china. The superb walled garden has a large collection of herbaceous plants, and there are a fine array of terraces and topiary. We return via the bustling market town of Keswick with its wide range of visitor attractions, shops, restaurants and museums. Thursday Homeward Bound. Sun 17 – Thu 21 May 2020 Departs 9.30am
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£709
Returns 5.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £70 | Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Reductions Available for (EH) English Heritage Members
For our customers who quite literally prefer a touch of extra luxury
LUXURY TRAVELLER
Holiday Itinerary
The Northern region of the English Lake District National Park is an area of outstanding natural beauty. With lakes, mountains, delightful small towns, villages and hamlets set amongst magnificent landscape – This is somewhere to escape from the pressures of modern living.
31
DURHAM DELIGHTS At Hardwick Hall Hotel NEW TOUR
4 Nights From: £672 Durham
Holiday Itinerary
LUXURY TRAVELLER 32
Nose’s Point, Seaham
Your Holiday Hotel Hardwick Hall Hotel, Nr Sedgefield, Co Durham Hardwick Hall is a 4-star rated, award-winning hotel in County Durham and Teesside. Surrounded by the stunning Hardwick Country Park, and is steeped in charm and character providing the perfect setting for a luxurious breakaway. 50 luxury bedrooms with exceptional standards of comfort, quirky-clever decor and first class traditional service. All rooms include large baths, walk-in showers, luxury furnishings and huge king size beds. Restaurant and bar/lounge. Mobility Grading: 4 – Good access throughout. Some ground floor rooms available plus the hotel has a lift.
© www.geograph.org.uk – Trevor Littlewood
Sunday We drive north, pausing for a suitable stop for lunch en-route, arriving at our hotel for our 4-night stay. Monday Our first visit today is Mount Grace Priory House & Gardens (EH) – An Arts and Crafts mansion, nestled among woodland, beautiful gardens and the remains of the best preserved Carthusian priory in England. We’ll discover its secrets and stories on our guided tour this morning. We’ll then have some time at leisure in the historic market town of Richmond, situated in the heart of North Yorkshire on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Our final stop of the day will be Richmond Castle (EH), one of the greatest Norman fortresses in Britain, where on our guided tour we’ll learn about where King Arthur is supposed to have slept and hear about the castle’s use during the First World War.
Tuesday Today we offer our included / Look What’s Included excursion to Durham with free time to 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own explore this medieval city’s cobbled streets and imposing Cathedral. In the courier service 4 Luxury Traveller Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & afternoon we continue to nearby legroom (See pages 4 & 5) 4 Fully Crook Hall & Gardens (Inc Cream reclining seats with calf supports 4 Complimentary on board hot and Tea) – a beautiful oasis of peace and tranquility in the heart of Durham City. cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB charging points 4 Complimentary gift We have arranged for a guided tour bag 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome of the 13th century Grade 1 listed drinks reception 4 Guided tour of Mount Grace Priory & House (EH) medieval hall and the stunning gardens. This collection of 12 gardens 4 Guided tour of Richmond Castle (EH) 4 Crook Hall & Gardens Inc range from the secret Walled Garden Cream Tea 4 Souter Lighthouse (NT) & to The Maze & Meadow area, each Washington Old Hall (NT) 8 Not with its own history and personality Included: All lunches Wednesday We begin our day by heading for the County Durham Coastline. Commencing at Noses Point – Once home to one of the biggest coal mines in Europe, where the beach was buried under 2 ½ million tonnes of colliery waste each Crook Hall year. The Beach has now been cleaned and is a spectacular haven for wildflowers and wildlife. We continue via Seaham to Whitburn, pausing at the Souter Lighthouse (NT). After pausing for lunch in South Shields we skirt inland to Washington Old Hall (NT) – a picturesque stone manor house and gardens with strong associations to the family of George Washington, first president of the United States. Thursday Departing after breakfast we visit nearby ‘Locomotion’ at Shildon. Part of the National Railway Museum we’ll discover over 70 vehicles from the National Collection, including “Sans Pareil”, built in 1829 to compete in the Rainhill trials. Late morning we continue our journey homeward.
©VisitEngland – Diana Jarvis
The beautiful city of Durham, with its Cathedral and Castle World Heritage Site, is the jewel in the crown of an extraordinary county. We also explore the colourful and dramatic landscape of Durham’s Heritage Coast with its beaches, rugged cliffs and imposing headlands – a truly stunning location!
Sun 19 – Thu 23 July 2020 Departs 8.30am
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£672
Returns 6.30pm
Supplements Double for Sole Use: £100 | Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Reductions Available for (EH) English Heritage & (NT) National Trust Members
More Luxury for Luxury Travellers
CARDIGAN BAY & The West Wales Coast NEW TOUR
4 Nights From: £545 Aberystwyth
Monday We drive south west, pausing for a suitable stop for lunch en-route, arriving at our hotel for our 4-night stay. Tuesday A day tour to Cenarth Falls, where in season, salmon leap and the Coracle fishermen ply their trade. We include a guided tour to the very interesting Coracle Museum. Then we travel on to Llanerchaeron (NT), a small 18th century Welsh gentry estate, set in the beautiful Dyffryn Aeron. The villa was designed and built by John Nash in 179496 and is the most complete example of his early work. Llanerchaeron was a selfsufficient estate – evident in the dairy, laundry, brewery and salting house of the service courtyard, as well as the Home Farm buildings from the stables to the threshing barns. Today it is a working farm with two restored walled gardens which produce fruit and vegetables which are Cenarth Falls sold in the estates shop.
Your Holiday Hotel
© Flickr – Ben Ketteridge
Holiday Itinerary
Wednesday We travel up the coast to New Quay, where we include a onehour wildlife cruise. The waters around Cardigan Bay are a great place to see dolphins and porpoises, with over 100 bottlenose dolphins known to inhabit these waters. (NB: Access to the boat is via steps therefore not easily suitable for all wheelchair users. We cannot guarantee that you will encounter Dolphins and other wildlife during your trip, however the skippers will make sure you have a truly memorable experience and will take you to many beautiful sights and locations along the way. All sea cruises are weather dependent and are at the Captains discretion). Our day continues via the small resort of Aberaeron to the historic mid-wales coastal town of Aberystwyth. Thursday Our excursion today takes us to St David’s – the smallest city in Britain. Follow in the footsteps of St David and discover the history and legends of the Patron Saint of Wales on our special guided tour of St David’s Cathedral. In the afternoon we return to Melin Tregwynt – a working woollen mill since 1912, where a cream tea is included. Friday Homeward Bound.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Luxury Traveller Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & legroom (See pages 4 & 5) 4 Fully reclining seats with calf supports 4 Complimentary on board hot and cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB charging points 4 Complimentary gift bag 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome drinks reception 4 Guided Tour of the Coracle Museum 4 Llanerchaeron (NT) 4 1-Hr Wildlife Cruise 4 Melin Tregwynt Woollen Mill (Inc Cream Tea) 4 Guided tour of St David’s Cathedral 8 Not Included: All lunches
St David’s Cathedral
The Cliff Hotel, Gwbert Mon 20 – Fri 24 April 2020 With expansive, beautiful hotel grounds, the Cliff Hotel & Spa is located on the coast of Cardigan Bay overlooking Poppit Sands and Cardigan Island. * Restaurant, bar, gym * Heated indoor, hydro spa, sauna, Jacuzzi, steam room * Free Wi-Fi. Mobility Grading: 3 – Generally, good access throughout with a few isolated steps. Lift to most rooms. Sea View rooms, subject to availability and supplementary charge.
Departs 8.30am
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£545
Returns 4.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £48 | Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Reductions Available for (NT) National Trust Members
For our customers who quite literally prefer a touch of extra luxury
LUXURY TRAVELLER
Step into a gentler pace of life as we discover the beautiful beaches, secluded coves, stunning wildlife and breathtaking scenery associated with West Wales. This new tour for 2020 is based at the luxurious 3-star Cliff Hotel overlooking Cardigan Bay, set within 30 acres of beautiful grounds.
33
2020 BIRDWATCHING & WILDLIFE BREAKS
© Flickr – Mike Prince
Escorted by Ashley Grove
Titchwell RSPB
From a very young age, Ashley’s passion for nature and the great outdoors was obvious. Initially taking inspiration from his parents, he was soon pointing out new species of birds to them in their Warwickshire garden.
Johnsons are proud to announce that 2020 will be our 3rd year of working in partnership with Ashley and the tours we will be featuring are listed on Pages 35 – 36 Where facilities allow, these breaks will include an evening talk by Ashley, who is a recommended speaker by the RSPB and Royal Horticultural Society. Each of Ashley’s informative talks are illustrated with images from his stunning wildlife portfolio and punctuated with entertaining anecdotes of his experiences in the field.
Life does however have its restrictions, the need for a “proper” job being one of those, so Birds and Photography were relegated to hobbies for some time. However alongside the day jobs, Ashley has volunteered for the RSPB for many years and was asked by his local group in 2006 to give a talk, being already established as a very capable wildlife photographer. This was to be the beginning of a big change and now as a recommended speaker for the RSPB, BTO & Royal Horticultural Society, Ashley gives around 50 talks a year. Subject matter for the talks is taken from his travels, which began in The Gambia and so became the obvious destination for his first guided tour.
On all Tours we will spend time outdoors regardless of the weather. Please bring sensible clothing and wear strong shoes or boots, as it can be wet and muddy. Our Active Traveller Holidays itineraries often include walks which may be up to 1 – 1.5 miles long over uneven ground which may prove challenging for those customers with reduced and limited mobility. What else could you bring? Binoculars are recommended, and you may wish to bring a small bird guide book to help with identification or a compact digital camera, but this is entirely up to you!
ACTIVE TRAVELLER
‘Experience Nature’ have now run 15 holidays to The Gambia, many breaks to the Spanish Pyrenees, Trinidad & Tobago, Sri Lanka, Sweden and various British destinations, with more places in the pipeline at home and abroad.
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Read reviews from Ashley’s & Johnsons recent holidays and excursions below: “We enjoyed everything that was promised in the brochure. Steady driver (always a bonus), pleasant and caring courier/hostess and Ashley Grove [was] excellent as an expert guide” Valued Customer (April 2019)
“Ashley Grove is a very knowledgeable leader” Valued Customer (April 2019)
“Thoroughly enjoyed my day, Ashley was very interesting and knowledgeable” Valued Customer (June 2019)
Special Interest Tours for the more Active Traveller
BURNS, BIRDS
NORFOLK BIRDS
& HIGHLAND BEASTIES
GALORE
4 Nights From: £589 Redshank
Highlights Include:
/ Look What’s Included
4 Nts DBB at the Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown-on-Spey * A Special ‘Burns Night’ Supper Friday Udale Bay – Roseisle – Burghead Saturday Anargach Woods (Crested Tits & Red Squirrel) * Grantown Mountains (Snow Bunting & Ptarmigan) * An Evening Talk from Ashley Sunday Loch Garten RSPB Reserve & Insch Marsh (Osprey & Crested Tits) * Rothiemurchas Mammal Hide
Join us for a special Taste of Burns Break. We will put on extra trips with our guides to look for our wintering wildlife and you can enjoy a Burns supper on Friday 24th with traditional piper and the address to the haggis.
Norfolk is second to none as a county to see birds all year round. It is not renowned for just the sheer quantity of good birds to be seen but also for the quality of them. Many resident species are either not found elsewhere or are localised. Add to this the regular appearance of Scarce Migrates or National Rarities and it is obvious why birders return time and time again to Norfolk at all times of the year, year after year. Highlights Include:
© Flickr – georgep008
4 Nts DBB at the Links Country Park Hotel, West Runton, Nr Cromer Marsh Harrier Friday Titchwell RSPB Reserve Saturday Broads Cruise & the Broads National Park with an evening talk from Ashley Sunday Seal Cruise & Cley Norfolk Wildlife Trust taking in Blakeney Point & Cley Marshes (Norfolk Wildlife Trust)
© Flickr – paul Blathwayt
Crested Tit
4 Nights From: £599
Ptarmigan
Your Holiday Hotel ACTIVE TRAVELLER
The Links Country Park Hotel, West Runton, Nr Cromer
Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown-on-Spey Situated in the heart of Grantown-on-Spey this 3-star hotel offers modern comforts whilst retaining a traditional Victorian character. Priding itself on its traditional Scottish dishes sourced from local produce, it also has a dedicated area showcasing the amazing local flora and fauna with wildlife enthusiasts listing daily sightings of birds and animals which guests can see for themselves. Restaurant and bar. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality & hotel are generally level with isolated steps throughout There is a lift to all floors.
Set in 35 acres of wooded parkland, which feature an impressive golf course, the Links Country Park Hotel is situated just 3-miles from Cromer. The magnificent period building is rich in traditional charm, and the elegant rooms feature antique furniture and have views of West Runton Village, the golf course, or the coast. Restaurant, bar & leisure centre with indoor swimming pool. There is a sandy beach is just 15 minutes’ walk away. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality fairly level with a lift to all floors.
Thu 12 – Mon 16 Mar 2020 Thu 23 – Mon 27 Jan 2020
Active Traveller
Departs 7.00am
Returns 7.00pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
4 Nights
£589
Active Traveller
4 Nights
£599
Thu 3 – Mon 7 Sep 2020
Active Traveller
4 Nights
£695
Departs 10.00am
Returns 3.30pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £80 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Special Interest Tours for the more Active Traveller
ACTIVE TRAVELLER
Your Holiday Hotel
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THE ISLES OF SCILLY
(2 Centre)
By Air
5 Nights From: £869 Puffin
Rose Coloured Starling
Seeing puffins at a colony is one of the highlights of watching wildlife in the UK and what other better time to see this wonderful species is there other than in July. We visit the Bempton Cliffs reserve, on the spectacular Yorkshire coast, where around half a million seabirds gather here to raise a family on towering chalk cliffs which overlook the North Sea. Some 4,000 pairs of puffins return to Bempton Cliffs to breed. Each pair lays a single egg in a crevice in the rock face. Coupled with this, we visit the Farne Islands off the Northumbrian Coast – an internationally important wildlife reserve, where besides puffins, we are likely to discover a whole host of other breeds including guillemots, razorbills, eider ducks, kittiwakes, shags, gannets and terns that come to feed in the rich seas surrounding islands. Also, throughout the year hundreds of grey seals can also be seen basking on the rocks.
A visit to the Isles of Scilly at this time of the year always has an extra edge to it if you are a birdwatcher! Birds are on the move from their breeding grounds heading to over-winter in milder climates and due to its location, the Scilly’s can be a landing ground for birds from America to Siberia and anywhere in between. Weather conditions depict what might drop in, but there is always plenty to see with Black Redstart, Firecrest, Purple Sandpiper, Lapland Bunting, Hoopoe and Rose Coloured Starling being regular migrants. Should the weather deliver from the west, birds like American Robin and the Black & White Warbler are all possible. There is an active grapevine on the islands, with new birds being reported regularly as they are found and evenings have a log call of the day’s bird sightings, which is a fun social gathering of birding tales and adventures.
Highlights Include:
Highlights Include:
2 Nts DBB at the Expanse Hotel, Bridlington & 3 Nts DBB at the MacDonald Linden Hall Hotel, Morpeth Saturday Bempton Cliffs Nature Reserve Monday Boat Trip to the Farne Islands (Weather permitting) Tuesday The Northumbrian Coast including Bamburgh & Lindisfarne
Gannet
Your Holiday Hotels
ACTIVE TRAVELLER
The Expanse Hotel, Bridlington
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6 Nights From: £1098
The 3-star Expanse Hotel is situated on the quiet North Bay seafront in Bridlington. The hotel has an on-site restaurant which has sea views, Marine Bar. Mobility Grade: 4 – Resort & hotel: Generally, level. Lift serves all floors.
MacDonald Linden Hall Hotel, Morpeth
The 4-star Linden Hall Hotel is set in 450 acres of private grounds. This luxury hotel offers all modern amenities together with a luxurious spa & indoor pool. Restaurant, bar/lounge, pub, gardens and games room. Mobility Grade: 3 – A few steps throughout the building. Lift to most floors.
Fri 3 – Wed 8 July 2020
Active Traveller
Departs 8.00am
Returns 7.00pm
Supplements Double for Sole Use: £122 | Holiday Insurance: £29 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
5 Nights
£869
6 Nts DBB at the Atlantic Hotel, St Mary’s, Return Coach transfers to Land’s End Airport, Return ‘Skybus’ Flights to St Mary’s 4 Walking tour of St Mary’s 4 Tresco & Tresco Abbey Gardens 4 St Martin’s & St Agnes – Full-day excursions by boat to the island of St Martin’s with its beautiful beaches and scenery and St Agnes, which is only a mile wide. You then continue to the uninhabited outer isles to view colonies of wild seals and birdlife. The days on which the excursions will operate is weather dependant and will be at the discretion of the hotel. Clients who are unable to walk reasonable distances will be limited in their enjoyment of the holiday. Please note that mini coaches are used for island transfers and that our excursions to Tresco, St Martins and St Agnes involve transportation by boat. Flights: All tours include return flights from Land’s End Airport to St Mary’s on the Isles of Scilly. Flights are with Skybus who operate the scheduled 20-minute flying time with 19 & 8-seater aircraft. 11451 All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority ATOL Scheme – Johnsons ATOL Number is 11451. / A POPULAR FAVOURITE
Your Holiday Hotel
The Atlantic Hotel, St Mary’s For further information on this hotel please see Page 47. Sat 10 – Fri 16 Oct 2020
Active Traveller
Departs 7.00am
Returns 6.30pm
6 Nights
Supplements Single Room: £114 | Sea View: £60 | Holiday Insurance: £30.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Special Interest Tours for the more Active Traveller
£1098
© Flickr – Tony Sutton
YORKSHIRE COAST & NORTHUMBRIA
ESCORTED GARDENS TOUR GREAT GARDENS OF CORNWALL
4 Nights From: £672 Trelissick Gardens
Monday Today we visit two gardens / Look What’s Included that are located close to each other 4 A fully escorted tour throughout by but are, individually, very different. Glyn Jones 4 Door to Door Service Penjerrick Gardens was created 200 4 Our own courier service 4 Club years ago and is a peaceful 15-acre, Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights sub-tropical, spring-flowering garden half board 4 Entrances to Killerton Gardens (NT), Penjerrick Gardens, with fascinating views of the sea and Trebah Gardens, The Lost Gardens of considerable historical and botanical Heligan, Trewithen Gardens, Trelissick interest. We continue to Trebah Gardens (NT) & Mount Edgcumbe Gardens – a spectacular 26-acre 8 Not Included: All lunches Cornish ravine garden, rated among the 80 finest gardens in the world. This sub-tropical paradise is home to a unique collection of rare and exotic plants, trees and shrubs. Tuesday This morning we make our way to one of the most unique and fascinating attractions in Cornwall – The Lost Gardens of Heligan. A genuine secret garden lost for decades. Now, with an incredible 200 acres of gardens and estate to explore we enjoy a guided tour. Relax in the afternoon in the quintessential Cornish fishing village of Mevagissey and discover its quaint streets lined with fisherman’s cottages, pubs, cafes, galleries and shops. Wednesday Today we visit Trewithen Gardens – One of only 5 gardens in the UK that are recognised by the International Camellia Society as a ‘Garden of Excellence’ with a magnificent collection of not only camelias but also rhododendron, magnolias and many rare trees and shrubs. We continue to Trelissick Gardens (NT) – set in more than 400 acres of sweeping parkland with beautiful views of the Fal River and Estuary. Discover a vast collection of sub-tropical plants, shrubs and spring bulbs. Thursday Departing St Austell we visit Mount Edgcumbe House & Gardens, a Grade 1 Historic landscape and 10-acres of garden in English, French & Italian styles of the 18th-20th century in a spectacular seaside setting by shingle beaches which includes a National Collection of Camellias as well as many other shrubs and plants. We return to the Midlands during the late afternoon.
Once again, we are pleased to team up with Glyn Jones, Head Gardener of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust on another fully escorted gardens tour to Cornwall, where we discover some of the most relaxing and exciting gardens that this grand Royal Duchy has to offer. Many of Cornwall’s gardens are quite different from those in the rest of the UK. The narrow peninsula, the Gulf Stream, plentiful rainfall and the relatively narrow temperature range – all of these combine to make the county unique. Glyn has been working in horticulture professionally for 40 years, having been through a traditional style apprenticeship scheme, then finishing his Horticultural education at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh. Throughout his career, Glyn has been Gardener in Charge at Tintinhull House in Somerset working alongside Penelope Hobhouse the Garden designer and writer. The next challenge was Peckover House in Cambridgeshire, working as Head Gardener and Property Manager. In 1999 Glyn took over the reins at Hidcote Manor Garden in Gloucestershire, one of the National Trusts flagship gardens. Glyn spent 17 years there, restoring missing features, improving the standards of Horticulture, and establishing environmental standards. He also initiated volunteering opportunities and establishing a garden apprenticeship scheme. Glyn joined the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust as Head of Gardens in February 2016. On all Garden Tours, we will spend time outdoors. Please bring sensible, waterproof clothing and walking shoes. Our Active Traveller Holiday itineraries often include walks over uneven ground which may prove challenging for those customers with reduced and limited mobility.
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE
Your Holiday Hotel
Holiday Itinerary
© Flickr – Stephen and Therese Jennings
The hotel is set in 300 acres of grounds overlooking St Austell Bay and has truly inspiring views. Bay View Restaurant, bar and lounge, spa bath, sauna and solarium. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality – fairly level. Hotel – minor steps to main entrance with ramp alternative. Lift to all floors.
Sun 19 – Thu 23 Apr 2020
Active Traveller
Departs 8.30am
Returns 7.00pm
4 Nights
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £160 | Sea View: £80 Deluxe Sea View: £160 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Reductions available for (NT) National Trust Members
Special Interest Tours for the more Active Traveller
£672
ACTIVE TRAVELLER
Carlyon Bay Hotel, St Austell, Cornwall
Sunday We travel south pausing at Killerton Gardens (NT) – A beautiful Georgian House with a beautiful year-round garden with rhododendron, magnolias and formal lawns. After a Garden visit and free time for lunch we continue to our hotel for our 4-night stay.
Killerton House
© VisitBritain – Britain on View
With Glyn Jones
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GENTLE WALKING HOLIDAYS
© Flickr – Charles Miller
With hf holidays – For independent travellers and walkers of all levels!
ACTIVE TRAVELLER
Alum Bay
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We are pleased to continue with themed walking holidays with our partners at hf holidays – the award-winning experts in Guided Walking and Self-guided walking holidays, with over 100 years of experience in delivering unforgettable memories all based in their 3 and 4 star Country Houses set in stunning surroundings.
After your guided walk, you’ll still have all the benefits of an HF country house base, and in the evenings can relax over dinner with like-minded people before taking part in evening activities, quizzes, dancing and more
Gentle Guided Walking is an easier variation of hf’s classic Guided Walking Holidays. You’ll still enjoy the choice of three guided walks each day, one of which will be a gentle stroll of just 3 or 4 miles, with plenty of sightseeing opportunities. Their Field Advisors have done a great job of selecting fascinating, more straightforward routes that minimise the gradients and rough terrain. The resulting walks, still led by an experienced guide, should appeal to people looking for an introduction to walking, or to people who now prefer to take things a little more gently. Nobody knows the best places to walk like HF Holidays and with their knowledgeable guides you’ll never be short of some inside story on local features, viewpoints – and quite possibly, if you press them − the best pubs too!
Country House Overview – All are within National Parks or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Each offering a unique holiday experience; from legendary packed lunches to dedicated boot rooms, maps and books galore, lounges to lounge in, bars to relax and socialise in and quiet corners to read in. On all Tours, we will spend time outdoors regardless of the weather. Please bring sensible, waterproof clothing and walking boots, as it can be wet and muddy, and occasions involves crossing becks. Our Active Traveller Holiday itineraries often include walks over uneven ground which may prove challenging for those customers with reduced and limited mobility.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door service 4 Transfers to/from Henley-in-
Arden to your chosen centre, including your return ferry crossings on the Freshwater Bay holiday 4 3 or 4 nights full board from dinner on day of arrival to breakfast on day of departure including packed lunches on Tue, Wed & Thu 4 Expert Guides for your chosen walks All centres are staffed by a friendly, caring and knowledgeable team, who will be on hand to offer advice and assistance throughout your stay. Not Included: Lunches on First and Last Days. Porterage of Luggage. Please note our coach does not stay in resort.
Your Accommodation All accommodation prices are based on the hf holiday ‘Good Room’ category (Formerly known as ‘Classic Room’). On all venues there is an opportunity to upgrade to the hf category ‘Better Room’ (formerly known as their ‘Premium’ standard).
Special Interest Tours for the more Active Traveller
FRESHWATER BAY HOUSE Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight is a world away from the bustle of the mainland. On this Gentle Guided Walking holiday, you’ll discover the island’s glorious 85-mile coastline of unspoilt sandy beaches and dramatic white cliffs, as well as panoramic walks over the flower-rich chalk downland.
4 Nights From: £589
©VisitBritain – Jason Hawkes
Proposed Gentle Walking Itinerary
Needles
Your Holiday Hotel
Tuesday Follow the Shepherd’s Trail through the fields and along an ancient trackway to Carisbrooke Castle (3 Miles). Wednesday Explore Alum Bay and the Needles Old Battery and New Battery before a glorious walk atop the chalk cliffs of Tennyson Down, offering magnificent views over the western half of the island. (4.5 Miles) Thursday Walk to the Long Stone, a neolithic long barrow and ancient meeting point, then on over the hills to Brighstone village (4.5 Miles) (For more active/experienced walkers longer alternative walks are available)
Freshwater Bay House, Freshwater Bay
Refurbished in 2016, many of its 48 bedrooms have breathtaking sea views. Surrounded by extensive gardens overlooking the bay and include a putting green, outdoor pool and private access to Freshwater Bay beach. 3 lounges, bar and restaurant. Heated outdoor pool. No Lift.
MALHAMDALE Yorkshire Dales
Mon 20 – Fri 24 Apr 2020
Active Traveller
Departs 8.30am
Returns 4.00pm
4 Nights
£589
Supplements Double Room for Sole Use: £40 | ‘Better’ Room Upgrade: £40 Holiday Insurance: £28
Renowned for its warm welcomes and wonderful walks, the Yorkshire Dales will charm you with its choice of landscapes. Whether you’re seeking solitude and wilderness or the charm of cobbled streets in quaint villages, the quiet homely beauty of the Yorkshire Dales will have you hooked.
4 Nights From: £569
© Flickr – James Whitesmith
Proposed Gentle Walking Itinerary
Bolton Abbey
Your Holiday Hotel
Newfield Hall, Malhamdale
Newfield Hall is a grand 19th century house set in extensive grounds with magnificent views of the Yorkshire Dales. Dating from 1856, it retains many of its original features including an impressive entrance hall and sweeping staircase. 48 bedrooms in both the main building and the tastefully converted coach house. 2 lounges, a bar, dining room and heated indoor swimming pool. No Lift.
DOVEDALE Derbyshire Peaks
3 Nights From: £425
Tuesday Explore the pleasant lanes and footpaths of Malhamdale, following a section of the Pennine Way beside the River Aire and passing the 18th century Airton Mill. (4 Miles) Wednesday From Barden Tower we follow the Dales Way over fields to reach the River Wharfe. We then follow the river past The Strid to the iconic ruins of Bolton Abbey. (4 Miles) Thursday Walk from the traditional Dales village of Clapham, passing through the Ingleborough Estate, to Ingleborough Cave. We then cross the beck and return to the village where there will be time to enjoy coffee and cake in the village. (4 Miles) (For more active/experienced walkers longer alternative walks are available) Mon 24 – Fri 28 Aug 2020
Active Traveller
Departs 10.00am
Returns 3.30pm
4 Nights
£569
Supplements Double Room for Sole Use: £40 | ‘Better’ Room Upgrade: £40 Holiday Insurance: £28
The Peak District National Park is home to beautiful countryside. Meander through enchanting limestone valleys at a gentle pace, visit timeless villages, with the opportunity to walk on the area’s stunning gritstone edges. Saturday We walk from the house and join the Tissington Trail (the former LNWR railway). We follow this to Ashbourne reaching the centre via a 350metre tunnel. (3.5 Miles) Sunday Walk from our Country House to the famous stepping-stones. We then follow the river upstream through the Dovedale gorge to Lover’s Leap before returning to the house. (3.5 Miles) (For more active/experienced walkers longer alternative walks are available)
Dovedale
Your Holiday Hotel
The Peveril of the Peak, Dovedale Named after the novel by Sir Walter Scott, our country house hotel is set in extensive grounds, less than a mile from Dove Dale Gorge. 44 bedrooms, comfortable bar, lounge, terrace and extensive grounds. No Lift.
Fri 18 – Mon 21 Sep 2020
Active Traveller
Departs 11.30am
Returns 3.30pm
3 Nights
Supplements Double Room for Sole Use: £30 | ‘Better’ Room Upgrade: £30 Holiday Insurance: £22
Special Interest Tours for the more Active Traveller
£425
ACTIVE TRAVELLER
Proposed Gentle Walking Itinerary
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CRICKET ST THOMAS
BEMBRIDGE COAST HOTEL
Chard, Somerset
Bembridge, Isle of Wight
4 Nights From: £595
4 Nights From: £569
Located near Chard in Somerset and set within glorious landscaped gardens this Regency Style Manor House is famous as the setting for the TV series to ‘The Manor Born’. Other Hotel Facilities Include: Restaurant, Lounge areas, Pavilion entertainment room, Indoor Pool, sauna & steam room. Hotel: Ramp alternative to steps into main entrance and restaurant. Lift to all floors, including Pavilion Room. Please note that there may be some walking between accommodation and main hotel facilities. Holiday Itinerary
WARNERS
Monday We depart locally and travel to our Warner Resort ‘Cricket St Thomas’ for a 4-night stay with dinner, bed & breakfast included. Tuesday to Thursday At leisure in your Warners Resort plus we include 2 excursions: Lyme Regis (Wed), Dorchester (Thu) Friday We depart after breakfast and travel back home making suitable comfort stops en-route.
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Mon 18 – Fri 22 May 2020
Comedy Time with live shows & music
Departs 11.00am
Returns 3.00pm
4 Nights
£569
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Signature Room Upgrades: (Twin/Doubles Only) £30 Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Commanding magnificent views across the Solent, Bembridge Coast is a thoroughly modern hotel set in lovely grounds. Other Hotel Facilities Include: Restaurant, Bar, Lounge with extensive entertainment facilities. Hotel has a lift. There may be some walking between the accommodation and the main hotel facilities. Please note: Most single rooms are in Standard Chalets, not in the hotel. These are of a 3-star standard, tastefully decorated with en-suite, TV and tea/coffee making facilities. Twin and double rooms are in the hotel complex and are 4-star.
Holiday Itinerary
Monday We depart locally to the south coast and our ferry crossing to the Isle of Wight, arriving at Warners ‘Bembridge’ for a 4-night stay with dinner, bed & breakfast included. Tuesday to Thursday At leisure in your Warners Resort plus we include 2 excursions: Scenic Island Tour (Wed), Godshill Half Day (Thu) Friday We depart after breakfast and travel back home making suitable comfort stops en-route. Mon 10 – Fri 14 Aug 2020
Live shows & music
Departs 9.30am
Returns 6.00pm
4 Nights
£595
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Signature Room Upgrades: (Twin/Doubles Only) £30 Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Travel with Johnsons – Travel with Friends
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights Half board Accommodation 4 Outlined excursions 8 Not Included: All lunches
All Standard Rooms/Chalets include: 4 LCD-TV 4 En-suite Bedrooms 4 Complimentary Toiletries 4 Hairdryer 4 Hospitality Tray with biscuits replenished daily Hotel Signature Room Upgrades Available on most departures – Wonderfully smart decor, upgraded spacious amenities and bigger beds and chairs, plus mini-bar.
Entertainment
Your Accommodation Sleep Easy! At all hotels, rooms are in the main building or nearby annexes, designed with your relaxation in mind and are lift accessible. Steep yourself in history or enjoy contemporary elegance – the choice is yours. The main building with the leisure centre, bar and restaurant is never far away.
A world of discovery awaits you! Live Music and Performances -As the sun goes down, the party gets started with an evening show kicking off right after dinner. Dress up, dress down, have a boogie or take it easy – it’s your holiday! During your stay, there will be different entertainment every night. Remember to take your swimsuits, tennis racquets, trainers if you would like to use the facilities available, some of the sites have outdoor bowls, fun croquet, archery, tennis and swimming pools with skilled staff available to guide you to ensure you enjoy every minute of your holiday.
NIDD HALL
ALVASTON HALL
Nr Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Cheshire
4 Nights From: £549
Nidd Hall is a jewel of Georgian splendour. It is set in 45 acres of landscaped gardens and perched on the edge of the rugged Yorkshire moors near Harrogate in North Yorkshire. You cannot help but be enchanted by the elegance of this Grade II listed house. Other Hotel Facilities Include: Lounge, bar, restaurant, purposebuilt cabaret venue, indoor swimming pool, spa bath, sauna and steam room. The grounds are fairly flat and accessible. Hotel has a lift to all floors. Please note: There may be some walking between the accommodation and the main hotel facilities.
Holiday Itinerary
Monday We head to North Yorkshire, arriving at Nidd Hall during the afternoon for our 4-night stay. Tuesday to Thursday At leisure in your Warners Resort plus we include 2 excursions: The Spa town of Harrogate (Wed) RHS Harlow Carr (Thu) Friday We depart after breakfast and travel back home making suitable comfort stops en-route. Mon 2 – Fri 6 Nov 2020
Live shows & music
Departs 10.30am
Returns 4.00pm
4 Nights
4 Nights From: £519
This Grade II-listed Victorian gem is situated in the leafy lanes of Cheshire, on the outskirts of the old riverside town of Nantwich. Other Hotel Facilities Include: A 20m Indoor swimming pool, spa pool, sauna, steam room, tropicarium and fitness studio. Mobility Grade: 4 – The locality is generally level. The hotel has a lift, however rooms located in the main house do not have lift access and will be on the 1st or 2nd floors. Single rooms are generally allocated in the courtyard accommodation, separate to the main hotel block and there may be some walking between your accommodation and the main hotel facilities. Holiday Itinerary
Monday We journey north to Cheshire, arriving at Alvaston Hall during the afternoon for our 4-night stay. Tuesday to Thursday At leisure in your Warners Resort plus we include 2 excursions: The historic city of Chester (Wed) Dagfields Craft & Antiques Centre, Nr Nantwich (Thu) Friday We depart after breakfast and travel back home making suitable comfort stops en-route. Mon 23 – Fri 27 Nov 2020
Live shows & music with ‘Turkey & Tinsel’ 4 Nights theme
Departs 11.00am
Returns 3.00pm
£549
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Signature Room Upgrades: (Twin/Doubles Only) £20 Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
£519
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Signature Room Upgrades: (Twin/Doubles Only) £20 Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
With Johnsons – Meet old friends & make new ones too!
WARNERS
Once again, we are pleased to offer a superb choice of holidays staying at a selection of Warner Leisure Hotels that are renowned for their comfort, luxury, cuisine and entertainment- beautiful hotels from countryside to coast, boasting stunning grounds.
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THE CHANNEL ISLANDS Jersey & Guernsey By Air
Mont Orgueil Castle, Jersey
Just off the Normandy coast, the Channel Islands comprising of Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, Sark and Herm are a short hop away from Britain and mainland Europe. There is so much to see and do in the Channel Islands. From cliffs coated with wildflowers to the beautiful beaches that fringe its shores, Jersey is a truly picturesque destination. Just 19 miles from France, the island effortlessly combines European sophistication with traditional British charm. With its unspoiled landscape, Jersey really is a place where you can get away from it all. Relax and enjoy the famed hospitality of its people and lose yourself in the Island’s winding lanes or on its breathtaking coast. Alternatively, why not head to Guernsey, the second largest of the Channel Islands – Full of natural beauty, it provides a relaxing environment for a peaceful getaway. Winding lanes reveal rolling pastures, tree filled valleys, dotted with traditional Guernsey farmhouses, dramatic clifftop views and glorious sandy beaches – with a surprise around every corner!
All Jersey & Guernsey Tours Deposits – All Jersey Tours require a deposit of £250, payable at the time of booking. All Air Holidays are weather permitting and that the itinerary may have to be varied for weather conditions. 11451
All the flights and flightinclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority ATOL Scheme – Johnsons ATOL Number is 11451.
/ Our Holidays to the Channel Islands on Pages 43 – 44 Include 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Return Air Travel from Birmingham or East Midlands 4 Return transfers between Jersey/Guernsey airport & hotel 4 Half Board Accommodation 4 Outlined Excursions 4 One piece of hold luggage per person (20Kgs) 4 All current taxes 8 Not Included: All lunches
Not all exact flight times are known at the time of our brochure going to press. These will be advised with your final documentation approximately two weeks prior to departure.
PASSPORTS
CHANNEL ISLANDS
Whilst passports are not required for entry to the Channel Islands, increased security is such that most airlines now require that you produce valid photo identification at check in. The following forms of ID are acceptable:
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4 Valid Passport 4 Valid Photographic driving licence 4 Citizen Card However, if you are planning a trip to St Malo in France from Jersey, a passport will be required. Important: In all cases, if you are unable to provide the necessary ID, you will be refused travel.
CURRENCY
The island’s currency is Sterling. However, the island does have its own coins and notes which you may receive in change and it is worthwhile remembering that these are NOT accepted in the UK! St Peter Port, Guernsey
Call 01564 797000 or visit www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk
SECRETS OF JERSEY By Air
6 or 7 Nights From: £839
Bouley Bay
continue along St. Ouen’s Bay for a visit to the Jersey Pearl Centre before travelling to the rugged north coast cove of Greve De Lecq. In the afternoon we include a guided tour of the La Mare Wine Estate where we visit the beautiful vineyards, orchards, the Cognac style distillery and the chocolate production kitchen. Samarès Manor Day 3 A day at leisure in resort. Day 4 A half day visit to the magnificent Samarès Manor. Dating in part to Norman times, the House is surrounded by beautiful gardens originally designed & constructed in the 1920s by millionaire ship owner and plant enthusiast, Sir James Knott. Day 5 Our day begins with a visit to Bouley Bay and on to the north east coast and delightful Rozel Bay. We visit Gorey to see the harbour and gardens, taking in some more lovely scenery as we return via St Helier. Day 6 A day at leisure in resort. Day 7 A half day visit to the Jersey War Tunnels, where we discover the true story of the Occupation of Jersey during the dark days of World War II. Day 8 We transfer to Jersey Airport for the flight to Birminghamn or East Midlands, and our onward journey home. Note: The itinerary may vary according to weather conditions.
The Golden Sands Hotel has been welcoming Johnsons clients for over 30 years and is one of our most popular hotels with its glorious views over St Brelade’s Bay. If you are looking for a holiday right on the beach then the Golden Sands is a perfect choice.
© Jersey.com
7 Night Holiday Itinerary
Day 1 We transfer to Birmingham or East Midlands Airport for our flight to Jersey. Upon arrival, we are transferred to the Golden Sands Hotel, where we stay for 7 nights. Day 2 Enjoy our included full-day island tour by coach, which will travel along the coast of Jersey from St. Brelade’s Bay to Corbiere Lighthouse. We then
6 Night Holiday Itinerary
Your Holiday Hotel
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE The Golden Sands Hotel, St Brelade’s Bay
Offering very high standards and occupying a magnificent position directly on the sea front with gardens and a few shops near the hotel. Stylish restaurant, cocktail bar with wonderful views, quiet lounge. Mobility Grade: 4 – Resort: On level sea front location. Hotel: On level sea front location. Lift to all floors.
Sat 4 – Fri 10 April 2020
Singles Galore
6 Nights
£839
Sat 2 – Sat 9 May 2020
7 Nights
£1085
Tue 9 – Tue 16 June 2020
7 Nights
£1159
Tue 15 – Tue 22 Sept 2020
7 Nights
£1099
6 Nights
£985
Tue 13 – Mon 19 Oct 2020
Singles Galore
Departs TBA
Returns TBA
Supplements Single: £105 (7 Night) Nil (6 Night) Double for Sole Use: £175 (7 Night) Nil (6 Night) Sea View Balcony: £105 (7 Night) £102 (6 Night) Double for Single Sea View £280 (7 Night) Superior Sea View: £140 (7 Night) Holiday Insurance: £57.50 (All Dates) Deposits – All Jersey Tours require a deposit of £250, payable at the time of booking.
The Golden Sands has been a Popular Favourite for over 30 Years!
CHANNEL ISLANDS
Jersey War Tunnels
© Jersey.com
As above, but please delete Day 4 – These tours do not visit Samarès Manor.
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JERSEY
GUERNSEY AND HERM
Battle of Flowers
Battle of Flowers
A short journey from home, but a million miles from the hectic pace of 21st century life! Nestling off the Normandy coast, Guernsey is the second largest of the Channel Islands – An island full of natural beauty, it provides a relaxing environment for a peaceful getaway.
Holiday Itinerary
Day 1 We transfer to Birmingham or East Midlands Airport for our flight to Guernsey. Upon arrival, we are transferred to the Peninsula Hotel, where we stay for 6 nights. Day 2 A tour of St Peter Port. Afternoon at leisure. Day 3 A guided tour of the north and east of the island. Day 4 A free day to explore more of Guernsey. Local buses operate from nearby and provide easy access to the centre of St Peter Port and the rest of the island. Day 5 We join a catamaran for a visit to the lovely, peaceful island of Herm. There will be time to walk to Shell Beach (approx 1.5 Km) or relax in the village of Herm Harbour. Please note that depending upon tides there may be some steep steps to negotiate at St Peter Port. Day 6 A free day to explore more of Guernsey. Day 7 We transfer to Guernsey Airport for the flight to Birmingham or East Midlands, and our onward journey home. Note: The itinerary may vary according to weather conditions.
Your Holiday Hotel
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE The Monterey Hotel, St Helier
CHANNEL ISLANDS
Herm
The Jersey Battle of Flowers day parade undoubtedly is one the most spectacular floral carnivals in Europe, and there is no better time to visit Jersey a popular holiday destination than during The Battle of Flowers week. This internationally renowned event brings together the many island parishes in an explosion of colour and is without doubt the highlight of the summer. Saturday We include Door-to-Door transfers to Birmingham or East Midlands Airport, followed by our flight to Jersey and hotel transfers to the Monterey Hotel. Sunday Enjoy our included full-day island tour by coach, which will travel along the coast of Jersey from St. Brelade’s Bay to Corbiere Lighthouse. We then continue along St. Ouen’s Bay for a visit to the Jersey Pearl Centre before travelling to the rugged north coast cove of Greve De Lecq. In the afternoon, we include a guided tour of the La Mare Wine Estate where we visit the beautiful vineyards, orchards, the Cognac style distillery and the chocolate production kitchen. Monday A full day at leisure in resort. Tuesday A half day visit to the Jersey War Tunnels, where we discover the true story of the Occupation of Jersey during World War II. Walk along the very tunnels which were trodden on by the German soldiers and discover what Jersey life was like during those dark days of the occupation. Wednesday At leisure with an included evening ‘Behind the Scenes’ excursion to view the parade floats. Thursday We include Grandstand Tickets for the Battle of Flowers Parade. Friday At leisure however during the evening we include a transfer back to the arena to enjoy the popular ‘Moonlight Parade’ of the floats. Saturday We include transfers to Jersey Airport for the flight to Birmingham or East Midlands, then homeward bound. Note: The itinerary may vary according to weather conditions.
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5 or 6 Nights From: £895
Accommodation: 7 Nts Half Board Well situated in a convenient residential area, ten minutes from the centre of St Helier and is positioned on a regular bus route. Restaurant and bar/lounge. Outdoor pool. Indoor pool with Jacuzzi steam room & mini gym. Mobility Grade: 3 – Resort: On the level. Hotel: Level main entrance. A few isolated steps internally but lift serves all floors.
Sat 8 – Sat 15 August 2020 Departs TBA
7 Nights Returns TBA
Supplements Double for Sole Use: £252 Superior Room: £45 | Holiday Insurance: £57.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
£1189
6 Night Holiday Itinerary
5 Night Holiday Itinerary As above, but please delete Day 6. Your Holiday Hotel Peninsula Hotel, Vale The hotel is situated on a small peninsula on the north-west coast of the island and with views over Grand Havre Bay. Spacious lounge, Sarnia Restaurant, Rendezvous Bar and pitch & putt golf course. A regular bus service connects you to St Peter Port. Mobility Grade: 5 – Locality level. Hotel level with a lift to all floors.
Mon 27 April – Sun 3 May 2020
6 Nights
£895
Mon 22 – Sun 28 June 2020
6 Nights
£949
Sat 1 – Fri 7 August 2020 Sun 11 – Fri 16 October 2020
Singles Galore
Departs TBA
Returns TBA
6 Nights
£959
5 Nights
£899
Supplements 6 Night Tours: Single: £106 Standard Sea View: £42 Double Sea View for Sole Use: £84 5 Night Tours: Single: Nil | Double Sea View for Sole Use: £84 Holiday Insurance: £57.50 (6 Nts) £48 (5 Nts) Deposits – All Guernsey Tours require a deposit of £250, payable at the time of booking.
Insurance Premium Prices FROZEN – All Holiday Insurance Prices held at last year’s rates!
© Visit Guernsey
7 Nights From: £1189
© Jersey.com
By Air
THE ISLE OF MAN By Air
6 Nights From: £979 Laxey Wheel
Holiday Itinerary
Tuesday To Birmingham Airport for the one-hour flight to the Isle of Man. Wednesday Today, we board a steam train for a ride through lovely countryside from Douglas to Port Erin. We continue via Port St Mary and the picturesque Cregneash Folk Museum, as well as the Calf of Sound, returning via the southern town of Castletown.
Thursday We include a ride on the Snaefell Mountain Railway, which at 2,036ft offers some spectacular views (weather permitting!) of the island. Then on to the famous Laxey Wheel and Mines Trail. Friday Today’s excursion takes us to Rushen Abbey located near Ballasalla with its fascinating, ‘Story of Mann’. We continue to Castletown and Peel before returning to our hotel. Saturday A day at leisure in Douglas. Perhaps visit the Manx Museum, admire the Jubilee Clock or stroll along the stylish seafront. Sunday We visit Tynwald, home of the Manx Parliament, where we include a visit to the mills. In the afternoon we include a visit to the Curraghs Wildlife Park. Monday We make our way to the airport to join our one-hour flight to Birmingham and return home. The order of the days our excursions operate may be subject to alteration.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 6 nights half board 4 Return flights from Birmingham Airport (1 hour) 4 Airport to hotel transfers by local coach 4 Outlined excursions by local Island Coach 4 Train rides on the Isle of Man Steam Railway and the Snaefell Mountain Railway 4 Entrances to Cregneash Folk Village, the Laxey Wheel & Mines Trail, Rushen Abbey & the Curraghs Wildlife Park 8 Not Included: All lunches
Douglas
Your Holiday Hotel
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE The Sefton Hotel, Douglas
Perfectly situated in a prime location on the promenade. The hotel is a sympathetic mixture of a fine Victorian hotel and a new extension set round a unique indoor atrium water garden. Restaurant, breakfast room and bar. Indoor swimming pool with health & fitness club. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality – Fairly level. Hotel –Lift to all floors.
Snaefell Mountain Railway
Tue 14 – Mon 20 July 2020 Tue 6 – Mon 12 Oct 2020 Departs TBA
6 Nights
£1069
6 Nights
£979
Returns TBA
Supplements Single Room: £90 | Holiday Insurance: £30.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Deposits – A deposit of £250 is payable at the time of booking. 11451 All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority ATOL Scheme – Johnsons ATOL Number is 11451.
With our bond in place – Your money is safe
ENGLAND
Lying in the Gulf Stream midway between mainland Britain and Ireland enables the Isle of Man to enjoy one of the mildest climates in the British Isles.
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THE ISLE OF MAN
5 Nights From: £674 Snaefell Mountain Railway
Holiday Itinerary
Your Holiday Hotel
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE
ENGLAND
Empress Hotel, Douglas
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© Flickr – Timelapsed
Day 1 We travel north to Heysham to catch our ferry to Douglas. Day 2 A free day to relax, settle in and explore Douglas. Day 3 Today, we travel to Laxey Station, where we board a train on the Snaefell Mountain Railway to the top of the island’s highest mountain for spectacular views of the island (weather permitting!). We take the train back to Laxey and pay a visit to the Laxey Wheel.
Our comfortable and elegant hotel is located on the Victorian promenade overlooking Douglas Bay and is just a short walk from the town centre. Restaurant, bar, spa bath, sauna & steam room and gymnasium. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality is level. Hotel has 18 steps to entrance but alternative entrance is available. There is a lift to all floors and public areas have ramps.
Calf of Man
Wed 22 – Mon 27 Apr 2020
5 Nights
£674
Mon 27 Jul – Sat 1 Aug 2020
5 Nights
£785
5 Nights
£769
Sat 26 Sep – Thu 1 Oct 2020 Departs 8.00am
Returns 5.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £54 | Holiday Insurance: £29 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Sightseeing Excursions are Included in the Price – On All Holidays!
© Flickr – Timelapsed
Day 4 We follow the course of the / Look What’s Included famous TT race to Tynwald Hill, the 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own home of the Manx Parliament, which courier service 4 Club Class Extra has Nordic origins and is the oldest legroom Johnsons coach throughout parliament in the world. We continue 4 Return ferry crossing to Peel and discover the secrets of Heysham/Douglas 4 5 nights half board 4 Ride on the Snaefell The House of Manannan. Mountain Railway 4 Laxey Wheel Day 5 Our destination today is the 4 Admission to Cregneash Folk village of Cregneash, where we visit Museum & the Sound Visitor Centre the National Folk Museum. 4 Entrance to the House of Manannan 8 Not Included: All lunches We continue to the Sounds Visitor Centre for spectacular views over the Calf of Man before returning to Douglas via Castletown for a free afternoon. Day 6 We board our ferry to Heysham and continue south homewards to the Midlands. The order of the days our excursions operate may be subject to alteration.
The Isle of Man has over 200 square miles of beautiful unspoilt countryside and a coastline with little coves and superb beaches. Our base is the island capital, Douglas, with its delightful promenade, Victorian pier and little specialist shops.
House of Manannan
© Flickr – Steve Edge
By Sea
THE ENCHANTING ISLES OF SCILLY By Air
6 Nights From: £1029 St Agnes
The Scillies, a unique natural environment with unspoilt beaches of silver sand, are designated an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Included Excursions Walking tour of St Mary’s A full-day guided walking tour of St Mary’s, including Old Town and the Lower Moors Nature Trail and the metal lighthouse at Peninnis Head. Tresco A crossing to the second largest island, Tresco, for a visit to the world famous Tresco Abbey Gardens. We are at leisure to explore the Gardens. Established in the ruins of a Benedictine priory, they contain plants found nowhere else in Britain. Later, we meet our Guide for the return sailing to St Mary’s and back to the hotel.
St Mary’s
St Martin’s or St Agnes A full-day trip to the island of St Martin’s with its beautiful beaches and scenery or St Agnes, which is only a mile wide. You then continue to the uninhabited outer isles to view colonies of wild seals and birdlife. (The exact island chosen will be down to the discretion of the hotel and is weather and tidal dependent).
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 6 nights half board 4 All coach transfers to/from Land’s End 4 Return Skybus Flights from Land’s End to St Mary’s 4 Airport/Hotel transfers 4 3 outlined excursions 4 2 FREE days at leisure 8 Not Included: All lunches
Flights All tours include return flights from Land’s End Airport to St Mary’s on the Isles of Scilly. Flights are with Skybus who operate the scheduled 20-minute flying time with 19 & 8-seater aircraft. 11451 All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority ATOL Scheme – Johnsons ATOL Number is 11451.
Wed 11 – Tue 17 March 2020
6 Nights
£1029
Sat 18 – Fri 24 April 2020
6 Nights
£1129
Tue 5 – Mon 11 May 2020
6 Nights
£1129
Fri 24 – Thu 30 July 2020
6 Nights
£1198
Thu 30 July – Wed 5 August 2020
6 Nights
£1189
Thu 24 – Wed 30 Sept 2020
6 Nights
£1189
Your Holiday Hotel
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE The Atlantic Hotel, St Mary’s, Isle of Scilly
The hotel is located directly on the water’s edge overlooking the harbour. The hotel is an old inn, so bedrooms vary in shape and size. Delightful restaurant built over the water and Ocean Bar with sea views. Mobility Grade: 2 – Town and hotel: Fairly level location. Hotel has no lift and frequent steps and stairs. Excursions include walking tours and sea launch journeys. Coaches are not used on the island.
Supplements Single Room: £114 (Mar) £138 (Apr-Sep) | Sea View: £60 (All Dates) Holiday Insurance: 30.50 Times are approximate (Subject to Flight Times) Deposits – A deposit of £250 per person is payable at the time of booking (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Clients who are unable to walk reasonable distances will be limited in their enjoyment of the holiday. Please note that mini coaches are used for island transfers and that our excursions to Tresco and St Martins or St Agnes involve transportation by boat. Also please remember that all air and sea journeys are weather permitting and that the itinerary may have to be varied for weather and tidal conditions.
Free Door to Door Home Pick-Up Service on All Holidays
ENGLAND
Departs 7.00am (All dates) Returns 6.00pm (All dates apart from Jul – 10.00pm)
47
RELAXED FALMOUTH
& the Cornishman
& The Cornish Riviera
4 or 6 Nights From: £434
Falmouth
Falmouth is Britain’s most southerly resort and the third largest natural harbour in the world. In the narrow streets of the bustling town centre you’ll find a wide selection of shops, art galleries and ancient inns. Your Included Excursions on All Tours
© Flickr – Tim Green
MEMBLY HALL HOTEL, FALMOUTH
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 or 6 nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 Return train from St Erth to St Ives 4 Porthcurno Telegraph Museum (6 night tour only) 4 Entrance to Trebah Gardens (6 night tour only) 8 Not Included: All lunches
St Ives We drive to St Erth where we board the local train for the short journey to St Ives. Here we discover one of Cornwall’s best loved resorts with its cobbled streets, winding alleyways, historic harbour and quaint fisherman’s cottages. A mecca for artists for many years, the town is home to the Tate Gallery St. Ives. Truro & Mevagissey We head to the Cornish Capital – Truro. Here, we are free to explore the cobbled streets and Georgian Houses or visit the stunning Cathedral. We then continue to the delightful fishing village of Mevagissey – This pretty village is packed with character and Cornish charm
Additional Included Excursions on 7 Day Tour
A scenic drive west to Penzance travelling via Marazion with views of St Michael’s Mount. Our drive takes us though a designated ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’. We stop to visit Porthcurno and the awardwinning Telegraph Museum – a showcase of Victorian ‘internet’ and an important hub for World War II secret communication. Trebah Discover the majestic Trebah Gardens, a sub-tropical paradise set against a stunning coastal backdrop, one of the Great Gardens of Cornwall! All tours include a Day at leisure in Falmouth. Your Holiday Hotel
ENGLAND – SOUTH WEST
Charlestown
The historic fishing town of Falmouth boasts an enchanting combination of picturesque narrow streets, a fascinating harbour, numerous sheltered coves and superb sandy beaches. Our itinerary takes in some of the highlights of the Cornish Riviera.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 2 Lunches 4 Outlined Excursions 8 Not included: 3 lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Thursday We drive to the West Country, making a convenient included lunch stop en-route. Friday We visit the historic village of Charlestown, a classic location for many a TV drama including Mansfield Park and Poldark. This afternoon we Boscastle travel to the fishing village of Mevagissey with its eclectic mix of shops, craft workshops, art galleries, cafés, pubs and restaurants. Saturday A free day in Falmouth, perhaps to explore the bustling harbour. Sunday Today we enjoy an excursion travelling northwards via Newquay and visit the picturesque fishing village of Boscastle with its medieval core and distinctive harbour. We then continue to Tintagel, a pretty village whose castle ruins are associated with the legends of King Arthur. Finally, we visit the delightful old harbour town of Padstow situated on the Camel Estuary; explore its quaint narrow streets and perhaps take a walk to the headland for some fabulous views of the estuary and distant hills. Monday We travel home with a convenient included lunch stop en-route.
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE Your Holiday Hotel
The Membly Hall Hotel, Falmouth
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4 Nights From: £669
The Falmouth Hotel, Falmouth Owned by the Andrew family for over forty years, Membly Hall offers an intimate and friendly atmosphere whilst enjoying a superb seafront position on Falmouth Bay. Covered sun lounge, Wellness sauna & spa pool, Jacuzzi, pool table, tennis court & short mat bowls available. Restaurant, bar and lounge. Large Dance floor & regular entertainment programme. Mobility Grade: 3 – Town and hotel: Fairly level location. Hotel entrance has a slight incline & a few steps, but lift serves all floors. Due to the nature of the building there are occasional steps on landings.
Tue 7 – Sat 11 Apr 2020
4 Nights
£434
Sun 2 – Sat 8 Aug 2020
6 Nights
£714
Thu 15 – Mon 19 Oct 2020
4 Nights
£459
Departs 9.00am
Returns 5.00pm (Apr) 5.30pm (Aug/Oct)
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £28 (4 Nts) £30.50 (6 Nts) (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Affectionately known as the ‘Grand Old Lady of Falmouth’. Dating from 1865 with its impressive Victorian architecture and spacious interiors the hotel commands a wonderful prime seafront location and excellent sea views. Restaurant, bars, lounge, health centre with sauna, solarium & Jacuzzi. Mobility Grade: 4 – Resort: Generally, level although access to the town area is quite hilly. Hotel: level with a lift to most floors.
Thu 28 May – Mon 1 Jun 2020
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£669
Thu 24 – Mon 28 Sept 2020
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£679
Departs 9.30am (May) 9.00am (Sep) Returns 5.30pm Supplements Compact Single Room: £100 | Standard Double for Sole Use: £140 Sea View: £40 | Sea View Executive: £80 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Sightseeing Excursions are Included in the Price – On All Holidays!
CORNISH CHARM
CORNISH GARDENS
‘Poldark Country’ – A Magical Land of Legends
Tintagel Castle
The fascination of the Cornish / Look What’s Included coast is legendary. A dramatic 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own coastline, pretty fishing villages courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board and ancient tales of smugglers combine to attract visitors from 4 Entrance to Geevor Tin Mine Museum 8 Not Included: All lunches the world over. Explore attractions associated with the top BBC Series ‘Poldark’ whilst discovering some of the region’s most picturesque landscapes. Holiday Itinerary
Monday We depart during the morning and with a suitable stop for lunch en-route we arrive at our hotel, on the outskirts of Newquay, in time for dinner and our 4-night stay. Tuesday Today we visit Padstow with its fine medieval buildings including the 16th century courthouse of Sir Walter Raleigh. Now famous for its restaurants, including that of the famed chef, Rick Stein. We continue to enchanting Tintagel – forever associated with the legends of King Arthur. Explore the village and the more energetic can walk to the nearby Castle for dramatic cliff top views (English Heritage discounts apply but please note admission is not included). Wednesday A scenic drive west to Penzance travelling via Marazion with views of St Michael’s Mount. In the afternoon continue to the fascinating Geevor Tin Mine Museum to discover the history of mining in Cornwall. It was Geevor where the BBC came for advice about filming Poldark on the nearby coastline. Thursday We visit Charlestown – This Grade II listed harbour doubled for Truro Harbour in Poldark and dates from the late 18th century. There are often historic vessels in port and there is a fascinating shipwreck centre to explore. Later, we continue to the old fishing port of Mevagissey. Friday We travel home with a convenient lunch stop en-route.
Your Holiday Hotel
4 Nights From: £564 Lanhydrock House
The rural heart of Cornwall is blessed with beautiful gardens containing exotic flowers and plants, offering spectacular views over scenic Cornish landscapes. With the climate to sustain a jungle garden, our new itinerary visits some of the most alluring gardens in the area, as well as a journey on the Bodmin Railway.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Guided tour of the Lost Gardens of Heligan & a visit to the St Austell Brewery Visitors Centre 4 Lanhydrock House & the Bodmin & Wenford Railway 4 Trebah Gardens 8 Not Included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Thursday We arrive at our hotel with time to settle in before dinner. Friday This morning we make our way to one of the most unique and fascinating attractions in Cornwall – The Lost Gardens of Heligan. A genuine secret garden lost for decades. Now, with an incredible 200 acres of gardens and estate to explore we enjoy a guided tour with a leisurely stroll around the main features of the Northern Gardens. Later we visit the St Austell Brewery Visitors Centre, where we discover the secrets behind St Austell’s awardwinning ales and the 160-year old brewing process. Saturday Today, we visit Lanhydrock House, an impressive late Victorian home and gardens. Discover the fascinating contrast between the upstairs and downstairs worlds by exploring the kitchens and servants’ quarters as well as the grand family spaces. Next, we take the short drive to the Bodmin & Wenford Railway for a scenic return heritage train ride. Sunday After breakfast we visit the only city in Cornwall – Truro where we spend the morning exploring its vibrant centre, where its cathedral takes centre stage, with its huge spires soaring over the city. After lunch, we visit Trebah Gardens – a spectacular 26-acre sub-tropical gardens that descends to its own beach on the beautiful Helford River. Monday After a leisurely breakfast we leave Cornwall and return homeward. Your Holiday Hotel
The Esplanade Hotel, Newquay, Cornwall
Lanhydrock Hotel & Golf Club, Nr Bodmin
The Esplanade Hotel benefits from a great location overlooking Fistral Beach with outstanding views across the Fistral Bay. Restaurant and bar. Regular entertainment programme. Indoor pool, Jacuzzi & sauna. Mobility Grade: 4 – Resort: Cliff top walks. Hotel: Level location. Lift to all floors.
Mon 8 – Fri 12 June 2020
4 Nights
£595
Mon 12 – Fri 16 Oct 2020
4 Nights
£514
The family owned luxury hotel is located on the outskirts of Bodmin in the heart of rural Cornwall within 180 acres of beautiful Cornish countryside. 46 contemporary rooms with all the comforts you would expect from a 3-star hotel. Restaurant and bar. Mobility Grade: 4 – Location and hotel fairly level. Ground floor rooms available plus lift access to 2nd floor & function rooms.
Thu 9 – Mon 13 April 2020
4 Nights
Departs 9.00am (Jun) 9.30am (Oct) Returns 5.00pm (Jun) 4.00pm (Oct)
Departs 9.00am
Supplements Single Room: £70 (Jun) £24 (Oct) | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Supplements Single Room: £143 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Returns 4.30pm
Travel with Johnsons – Travel with Friends
£564
ENGLAND – SOUTH WEST
4 Nights From: £514
© Flickr – jon watts
At Easter
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LOOE
DEVON
& The Cornish Coast
& Delightful Dartmoor
NEW TOUR
4 Nights From: £529 Looe
Dartmoor National Park
The pretty fishing town of / Look What’s Included Looe is a truly delightful and 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own picturesque place, separated courier service 4 Club Class Extra into two towns of East and West Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Entrance to the Eden Project 8 Not Looe by the River Looe flowing included: All lunches out to sea. The small harbour is still a busy fishing port and watching the hustle and bustle as the fishermen return home with their catch is a wonderful way to appreciate the town.
This new tour takes us throughout Devon to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the county, its pretty towns and bustling cities. Take in the sights of Dartmoor, countryside, coast and the English Riviera during this 5-day tour.
Holiday Itinerary
Monday We journey to Devon, arriving late afternoon for tea/coffee and biscuits at the Copthorne Hotel Plymouth and our 4-night stay. Tuesday Today we visit Mount Edgcumbe House, home of the Earls of Mount Edgcumbe. The beautiful mansion with magnificent interiors and listed gardens is set within an 865-acre Country Park overlooking the Mount Edgcumbe House Tamar Estuary and Plymouth Sound. Wednesday This morning we include a boat trip on the Tamar around the harbour and naval dockyards. The afternoon is free for you to explore the historic city of Plymouth. Take a stroll around the famous Hoe, visit the Barbican Steps and browse around the city centre shops. Thursday A leisurely day to experience the Dartmoor National Park. We journey via Buckfast Abbey to Princetown, the highest town on Dartmoor and location of the infamous Dartmoor Prison. We will travel across the rugged landscape past wild ponies, rugged moors and rock formations as we make our way to Tavistock on the edge of the park. Tavistock is a traditional market town and is the perfect place to stock up on local Devon produce with cheeses coming highly recommended. Friday After breakfast we leave and head for home.
ENGLAND – SOUTH WEST
Monday A morning departure to Cornwall arriving in the afternoon for our 4-night stay. Tuesday A morning excursion to Polperro, a coastal village that was once a thriving centre for the area’s smuggling activity. Today, in cellars where furtive smugglers once dodged the customs men’s muskets, you can see displays of local crafts and fishermen’s smocks. We return for an afternoon at leisure in Looe. Wednesday We visit Port Isaac – a traditional fishing village with a vibrant local community in north Cornwall and home to the TV series Doc Martin starring Martin Clunes. It’s a truly picturesque village with steep, narrow winding streets lined with whitewashed cottages that head down to the harbour. Then it is on to Padstow – a town with a colourful and ancient history. Old crooked streets slope down to the harbour where many fine medieval buildings can still be seen. Today Padstow remains a working fishing port whose produce has been made famous by Rick Stein’s television series and acclaimed Seafood Restaurant. (Port Isaac may prove challenging for those with reduced mobility) Thursday Today we visit the impressive Eden Project, built as a global garden telling the story of man’s developing relationship with plants. The project creates three of the world’s climatic zones – our own temperate climate outside and inside, plus giant ‘covered biome’ conservatories for the humid and warm regions. Friday After breakfast we depart on our homeward journey to the Midlands.
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4 Nights From: £549
Your Holiday Hotel
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Entrance to Mount Edgcumbe House & Gardens 4 Tamar boat cruise 8 Not Included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Your Holiday Hotel The Portbyhan Hotel, West Looe, Cornwall
The Copthorne Hotel, Plymouth
Situated on the quayside of West Looe overlooking the River and East Looe, the Portbyhan offers stunning views from its unrivalled position. The restaurant offers fantastic views across the quayside, and the bar area has regular entertainment. Mobility Grade: 3 – The locality is relatively flat with a few steps at entrance. Isolated steps throughout the hotel but the hotel has a lift.
Situated in the heart of the city with sweeping views down Armada Way and a short walk away from the Barbican and iconic Mayflower steps, the hotel is hard to beat in terms of location and convenience. Restaurant & bar facilities. Mobility Grade: 3 – 6 steps to main entrance but with ramp access. The hotel has five floors with level access throughout with a lift to all floors.
Mon 7 – Fri 11 September 2020
Mon 5 – Fri 9 October 2020
Departs 10.00am
4 Nights Returns 4.30pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £80 | Superior Balcony: £40 River Facing: £20 | Holiday Insurance: £28
£529
Departs 9.00am
4 Nights Returns 4.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £112 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
For Friendly Help and Advice Call Us on 01564 797000
£549
& Delightful North Devon
at the Park Hotel, Barnstaple
North Devon is an enchanting, often forgotten region of the country with such a variety of beautiful countryside scenery – rolling hills, hidden woodlands, spectacular rivers, rocky coves and long sandy beaches and sleepy hidden hamlets.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 2 Included lunches 4 Sheppy’s Cider (Tour & Tasting) 4 Entrance to RHS Rosemoor Gardens & The Dartington Crystal Visitors Centre 8 Not Included: 3 Lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Sunday Travelling to the West Country, we visit Sheppy’s Cider, Taunton, for a tour and tasting where we will also discover much about their 200-year history of cider making. After our included light lunch, we continue to our hotel with time to settle in and enjoy the comfortable surroundings before dinner. Monday Our first stop this morning is the picturesque resort of Lynmouth where we have time to explore the narrow streets and maybe take the cliff railway to the twin village of Lynton. From here we make our way through scenic ‘Little Switzerland’, as the region is known, to the lovely village of Dunster, with its famous castle and octagonal Yarn Market. Our return takes us through Exford and the Exmoor National Park. Tuesday A morning at leisure in resort. Why not discover Bideford’s Pannier Market? It is a lovely traditional market with around 40 stalls selling a wide range of locally-sourced fresh fish, crafts and gifts. In the afternoon, we visit the charming fishing village of Appledore with fabulous coastal views towards Bideford Bay. Return to our hotel for evening dinner. Wednesday We visit RHS Rosemoor Gardens where you can stroll amongst the many gardens from formal to model garden, from winter to cherry and from exotic to stone garden there is much to see. We will also have the chance to visit the Dartington Crystal Visitors Centre a short drive away before returning to our hotel. Thursday After a leisurely breakfast we leave Bideford and return home, making a convenient lunch stop for our included lunch en-route. Your Holiday Hotel
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE
Hartland Abbey
North Devon is a delightful mixture of dramatic coastline and magnificent moorland scenery, sprinkled with unspoilt resorts, bustling market towns and quaintly named villages. Barnstaple is said to be the oldest borough in the kingdom and was founded at the lowest crossing point of the River Taw.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 2 Lunches 4 Guided tour of Hartland Abbey & Gardens with cream tea 4 Entrance to RHS Rosemoor 8 Not included: 3 Lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Monday Leaving the Midlands behind us we head for the West Country making a stop for our included lunch en-route before arriving in Barnstaple during the afternoon. Tuesday It’s market day in bustling Barnstaple and the morning is free to Appledore explore this ancient borough. In the afternoon, we enjoy a gentle ride out to Appledore. Wednesday Today we visit Hartland Abbey & Gardens for a guided tour of this cherished family home, full of treasures and memorabilia collected over many generations. We include a sumptuous cream tea and during our visit there will be free time to explore the beautiful gardens and grounds which lead to a rocky cove. Thursday A morning visit to RHS Rosemoor, where you can stroll around the enchanting and meticulously crafted 65-acre garden. Free time for lunch before returning to our hotel in the afternoon. Friday We return home to the Midlands, with a convenient stop for our included lunch stop en-route, arriving home during the afternoon.
Your Holiday Hotel The Park Hotel, Barnstaple
The Royal Hotel, Bideford Standing at the eastern end of the ancient Bideford Bridge, the Royal Hotel is steeped in history. As Bideford’s finest hotel, you can rely on The Royal for a warm Brend Hotels welcome among stylish and peaceful surroundings. Regency Restaurant, lounge and bar area. Mobility Grade: 4 – Location and hotel fairly level, slight hill into town. Lift to all floors.
Sun 8 – Thu 12 March 2020
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£485
Sun 12 – Thu 16 July 2020
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£575
The Park Hotel is set in a quiet corner of the bustling market town of Barnstaple, a level 15minute stroll into the shops, bars & restaurants of the town centre. The elegant, comfortable bedrooms offer every modern facility with special attention to detail. Spacious restaurant, bar & lounge, sun terrace overlooking Rock Park. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality is generally flat. Most rooms are on the 1st floor, with a limited number of ground floor rooms available in the Garden Court Annexe, 100m from main entrance. Lift access to most floors.
Mon 31 Aug – Fri 4 Sep 2020
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
Departs 8.30am (Mar) 9.00am (Jul) Returns 4.30pm (Mar/Jul)
Departs 10.30am
Returns 5.00pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £80 (Mar) £120 (Jul) Deluxe Room: £40 | Insurance: £28 | (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) | Discounts for RHS Members available
Supplements Single Nil | Double for Sole Use: £140 | Park View: £20 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Discounts available for RHS Members
We include our own Helpful & Attentive Couriers on all our UK Holidays
£619
ENGLAND – SOUTH WEST
Rosemoor
4 Nights From: £619
© Flickr – Tom Bastin
4 Nights From: £485
© VisitEngland – North Devon
RELAXED NORTH DEVON
© VisitEngland – Heart of Devon
RELAXED BIDEFORD
51
SAILING & STEAMING
TORQUAY & The English Riviera
In Devon
4 Nights From: £579 South Devon Railway
Torquay the ‘English Riviera’ is known for its mild climate throughout the year. Enjoy a break at the Headland Hotel which is situated in one of the most beautiful parts of Torquay and sits majestically on the headland looking out to sea.
© South Devon Railway
NEW TOUR
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 River Exe Cruise 4 South Devon Railway 8 Not Included: All lunches
© VisitEngland – Exeter Council
Holiday Itinerary
ENGLAND – SOUTH WEST
Monday A morning departure to Devon, arriving in the afternoon for our 4-night stay. Tuesday Our tour begins with a Devon coastal tour. Following the Exeter shore road, we pass through Teignmouth and Dawlish and continue north to the Cathedral City of Exeter. We take a break here and have time to explore the city before we continue along the Exe estuary to the pleasant resort of Exmouth. Here we have time for lunch before we enjoy a cruise around the River Exe discovering the history, beauty and wildlife of the river. Wednesday This morning we drive into Newton Abbot where today is market day. Enjoy a browse around the stalls and a look at the town where you can obtain lunch. Leaving Newton Abbot we have a ride to Buckfastleigh. Here we join the South Devon Railway. Originally a Great Western Railway branch line, the line hugs the Dart estuary on the journey to Totnes. On arrival you can stretch your legs before the train returns to Buckfastleigh. In Buckfastleigh the railway offers an extensive museum, workshops, gifts and book shop and refreshment rooms. Thursday We head into the South Hams region of Devon. First we take a break in Kingsbridge, ‘capital’ of South Devon, with chance to look around the pleasant town. Moving on we head for delightful Dartmouth with its many naval connections, including the Royal Naval College. Time for lunch here and enjoy a lovely stroll along the busy harbour, or just sit and watch the boats. Friday After breakfast we depart on our homeward journey to the Midlands.
52
Your Holiday Hotel The Headland Hotel Majestically overlooking Meadfoot Beach and the sea, set on the headland, The Headland Hotel was originally built for the Romanoff’s, the Russian Royal Family. Hotel facilities include 2 lounge bars, sauna, mini gym, 2 acres of grounds and offers entertainment nightly. Mobility Grade: 3 – The locality is relatively flat with a few steps at entrance. Isolated steps throughout the hotel but the hotel has a lift.
4 or 6 Nights From: £439
Plymouth
Torquay, at the heart of the / Look What’s Included English ‘Riviera’, is a stylish 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own resort with a real continental courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 or 6 nights half atmosphere. One of the UK’s board 4 Outlined excursions top holiday destinations since 4 Plymouth Harbour Cruise (6 Nt tour Victorian times, today it’s an only) 4 The South Devon Railway 4 Buckfast Abbey with a Devon Cream exciting resort with a wide Tea 8 Not Included: All lunches variety of attractions including a palm-lined promenade, international marina, shops and cafés, and 22 miles of coastline, cliffs, coves and beaches! Holiday Itinerary (On 6 Night Tours)
Sunday We drive to Torquay arriving in time for dinner and our 6-night stay. Monday Our excursion takes us along the famous Devon coastline to Brixham. Primarily a fishing port, Brixham has a long and rich maritime history. Tuesday A day at leisure in Torquay. Wednesday The historic city of Plymouth is our destination today. Discover Plymouth Hoe, with its glorious views out over Plymouth Sound before enjoying a harbour cruise viewing the warships and dockyards. Thursday Today, we head to Buckfastleigh for a return ride on the scenic South Devon Railway, along the River Dart. We pay a visit to lovely Buckfast Abbey, where we enjoy a Devon cream tea before returning to Torquay. Friday Today’s excursion takes us to Totnes, a unique and charming market town for free time before continuing to the historical town of Dartmouth. Saturday Departing after breakfast we return homeward.
Included Excursions on 4 Night Tour
Tues – Brixham Wed – A day at leisure in Torquay Thu – South Devon Railway, Buckfast Abbey & Cream Tea. Your Holiday Hotel The Howden Court Hotel, Torquay The Howden Court Hotel is a Grade ll listed building. The location is central to Torquay town centre and the main seafront/beach with the added advantage of a private pathway leading to within 100 metres of the seafront. The hotel looks to create a warm, friendly and relaxed atmosphere with a home from home feel. Mobility Grade: 2 – The resort of Torquay has many inclines and for those with mobility issues: there is a fairly-steep incline to the beach and sea front of approximately 105 yards. Access within the hotel is relatively good with a lift to some floors.
Sun 3 – Sat 9 May 2020
6 Nights
£619
Sun 9 – Sat 15 Aug 2020
6 Nights
£649
Mon 19 – Fri 23 Oct 2020
4 Nights
£439
Departs 10.00am (May) 10.30am (Aug/Oct) Returns 4.30pm (May/Aug/Oct) Mon 7 – Fri 11 Sept 2020 Departs 10.00am
4 Nights Returns 4.30pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
£579
Supplements Single Sea View (1st Floor): £40 (4 Nts) Admiral Double: £60 (4 Nts) £90 (6 Nts) | Garden Room/Bay View Room/Studio Room: £40 (4 Nts) £60 (6 Nts) Holiday Insurance: £30.50 (6 Nts) £28 (4 Nts) (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
We include a No Surcharge Guarantee on all Coach Holidays
TORQUAY & DARTMOOR RELAXED TRAVELLER
5 or 6 Nights From: £714
Torquay
Holiday Itinerary (6 Night Tour)
Tuesday We travel to the West Country, making an included lunch stop en-route and arrive at our hotel during the early afternoon. Wednesday A short day which will take us via historic Totnes and the South Hams to the quaint old port of Dartmouth, set on the banks of the River Dart. A lovely riverside town with inviting narrow streets to explore featuring boutique shops and art galleries, delightful cobbled quaysides, colourful gardens plus the timber framed Butterwalk with its ancient black & white timbered buildings. Thursday A day at leisure in Torquay. Friday Today we enjoy an excursion via Dartmouth the South Devon coastline through Shaldon, Teignmouth to Dawlish, renowned for its black swans that can often be seen swimming on the brook. We continue to the resort of Sidmouth, described as the quintessential English seaside resort and winner of a gold award in the Britain in Bloom competition. This lovely unspoilt resort with its fine Regency architecture, elegant promenade and red sandstone cliffs overlooks the waters of Lyme Bay on a stretch of designated World Heritage coastline. Your Holiday Hotel
Saturday A day of contrasts as we / Look What’s Included head for Newton Abbot, a delightful 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own Devon town, where it is market day. Wander through the old Butter Market courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board or just enjoy the outdoor market in the 4 Lunches on first & last days town square. Then it’s on to Dartmoor 4 Outlined Excursions 8 Not included: All other lunches National Park, a wild expanse dotted with granite rocks and tors rising up from the barren bogs, heather clad moors and hidden villages. We visit Widecombe-in- the-Moor, a typical Dartmoor village, probably best known for Widecombe Fair and its associated folksong. Sunday A day at leisure in Torquay. Monday Departing our hotel after breakfast we return homeward making an included lunch stop en-route arriving home in the afternoon.
Holiday Itinerary (5 Night Tour)
As above but we return home on Sunday (Day 6).
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE
Sidmouth
The Livermead Cliff Hotel, Torquay Located in an enviable position, the hotel operates with a smooth efficiency and is located directly on the water’s edge just a short bus ride from the town centre. Restaurant, lounge area overlooking the sea, sun terrace & bar. Mobility Grade: 3 – Resort: Level sea front and promenade. Hotel: Some rooms are accessed by lift and several steps. Ramp alternative to front entrance. A few steps in public areas.
Tue 21 – Sun 26 July 2020
Relaxed Traveller & Singles Galore
5 Nights
£714
Tue 25 – Mon 31 Aug 2020
Relaxed Traveller
6 Nights
£798
Departs 10.30am
Returns 4.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £50 (5 Nts) £60 (6 Nts) Holiday Insurance: £29 (5 Nts) £30.50 (6 Nts) (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
For 2020 choose from 120 Different Holiday locations
ENGLAND – SOUTH WEST
Torquay is called the ‘English Riviera’ because of its mild climate and exotic plants. Enjoy its parks, bustling harbour, illuminated promenade and popular theatres. This tour allows you to discover the glorious South Devon region but at a relaxed leisurely pace and includes a vintage steam train ride and a delicious Devon cream tea!
© Flickr_Torquay Palms
The Heart of Devon
53
DAWLISH DELIGHTS
& Glorious South Devon
At the Langstone Cliff Hotel
Paignton
Set between two rugged / Look What’s Included headlands with miles of golden 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own beach, Paignton nestles snugly courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board between its two neighbours – 4 2 Lunches 4 Dartmouth Steam Torquay and Brixham. Railway & Dart River Cruise Its colourful image is enhanced 4 Babbacombe Model Village 8 Not by a marine garden promenade, included: 3 lunches pier and harbour which are brought to life at nightfall by seafront illuminations. Holiday Itinerary
Monday A leisurely journey to the West Country with an included lunch stop en-route. Tuesday We enjoy a morning jaunt to another of Torbay’s popular resorts – Brixham – a bustling fishing town with a history of Pirates and Smugglers. Shops, cafes and pubs line the attractive quayside, you can also explore the replica of Sir Francis Drakes Golden Hind. Afternoon at leisure in Paignton. Wednesday After breakfast, we take the Dartmouth Steam Railway to Kingswear. Here, the ‘foot passenger’ ferry whisks us across the river to the seafaring port of Dartmouth. After free time for lunch we board our Dart River Cruise, where we enjoy the wonderful scenery of forestry woodland, secluded creeks dotted along the banks of the River Dart. Thursday Today we enjoy an excursion along the beautiful English Riviera. Firstly, we make our way to Dawlish with its Georgian and Victorian architecture. We then continue to the seaside town of Teignmouth. Steeped in maritime history, this working harbour boasts sandy beaches, a Victorian pier. This Afternoon we include entry to Babbacombe Model Village, famous for its miniature landscaped gardens, leading it to be branded as one of Europe’s Premier Model Villages and one of Torquay’s most beautiful gardens. Friday We depart our resort and head towards our included lunch stop before returning to the Midlands late afternoon.
ENGLAND – SOUTH WEST
Your Holiday Hotel
54
4 Nights From: £579 Dawlish
Dawlish is a fascinating little regency town huddled attractively between steep surrounding hills. There are several popular beaches here including Dawlish Warren – a popular destination in its own right. Meanwhile in the middle of the town there is a flat landscaped area called ‘The Lawn’, home to various wildfowl and the famous Dawlish black swans.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Outlined Excursions 4 Entrance to Bicton Park Botanic Gardens 8 Not
Included: All lunches
© Flickr – Emma Le P
4 Nights From: £565
© Flickr – Timelapsed
RELAXED PAIGNTON
Holiday Itinerary
Sunday Enjoy a leisurely journey to Dawlish, arriving during the Bicton Park afternoon. Monday We make our way towards Budleigh Salterton where we enjoy a visit to the privately-owned Bicton Park Botanical Gardens. Spanning nearly 300 years of horticultural history, these magnificent Grade I gardens are set in Devon’s picturesque Otter Valley. Here you will find historic glasshouses, countryside museum, the Bicton Woodland Railway, nature trail, maze and so much more. Following this visit we re-join the coach and make our way to Sidmouth, where we enjoy free time to explore. Tuesday A day at leisure in Dawlish. Wednesday We journey across the width of the Dartmoor National Park with its extreme beauty and wild ponies to Princetown, then on to the ancient market town of Tavistock, returning via Oakhampton. Thursday Making a convenient stop for lunch en-route we return to the Midlands.
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE Your Holiday Hotel The Redcliffe Hotel, Paignton
The Langstone Cliff Hotel, Dawlish Warren
Superbly positioned overlooking two sandy beaches the Redcliffe lies within 3 acres of grounds with spectacular views across Torbay. Converted in 1904 from a private residence, many of its original features still abound, creating an atmosphere of luxury and elegance. Restaurant, 2 lounges with views of the bay, spa bath, gym, sauna, solarium, hairdresser and putting area. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality: Flat. Hotel: 8 steps to entrance. Isolated steps elsewhere.
Mon 11 – Fri 15 May 2020
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£565
Mon 21 – Fri 25 Sept 2020
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£565
Departs 10.30am (May) 9.30am (Sep) Returns 4.30pm (May) 6.00pm (Sep) Supplements Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £120 | Sea View: £64 Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Set in 19 acres of peaceful woodland overlooking the Exe estuary and just a short walk from the beach via a public footpath. 64 comfortable bedrooms located on just 2 floors with 10 rooms located on the ground floor, restaurant, bar, lounge, garden, terrace, games room, indoor pool (all year) & outdoor pool (seasonal). Mobility Grade: 4 – Resort: generally level. Hotel: On the level with a few isolated steps and a lift to all floors.
Mon 1 – Fri 5 June 2020
4 Nights
£599
Mon 31 Aug – Fri 4 Sept 2020
4 Nights
£579
Departs 10.30am
Returns 4.30pm (Jun) 5.00pm (Sep)
Supplements Single Room: £60 | Sea View Balcony: £30 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Call 01564 797000 or visit www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk
REGENCY SIDMOUTH West Country ‘Rail & Sail’
5 Nights From: £719 Sidmouth
Day 5 We spend the day in Exeter – / Look What’s Included the regional capital for culture, leisure 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own and shopping. With over 2000 years courier service 4 Club Class Extra of history, there are some fascinating Legroom Coach 4 5 nights half board attractions, including the magnificent 4 Exe River Cruise 4 Entrance to Cathedral, the unique Underground Buckfast Abbey 4 Return train ride on the South Devon Railway 8 Not Passages and the world class Royal Albert Memorial Museum. Historically a Included: All lunches major port, the city’s quayside area is now focused towards leisure, with a number of cafes and restaurants and the city also boasts an abundance of shops. Day 6 We travel home with a convenient lunch stop en-route.
We are delighted to be returning to the lovely East Devon resort of Sidmouth and the excellent Royal York & Faulkner Hotel. The timeless holiday resort of Sidmouth offers beautiful gardens, leisurely walks, Regency history and fine hotels, clean beaches and friendly shops all nestling beneath the majestic red cliffs and the green hills of the glorious Sid Valley.
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE The Royal York & Faulkner Hotel, Sidmouth
A popular, well appointed, family owned and run hotel, in the centre of the Esplanade, overlooking the sea and adjacent to the town centre. Restaurant, two bars, three comfortable lounges and hydrotherapy pool (extra charge). Mobility Grade: 5 – Resort: generally level. Hotel: On the level with a few steps to some public rooms and a lift to all floors.
Exeter
Sat 6 – Thu 11 June 2020
5 Nights
£729
Thu 13 – Tue 18 Aug 2020
5 Nights
£719
Departs 9.30am (Jun) 10.30am (Aug) Returns 3.30pm (Jun) 4.30pm (Aug) Supplements Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £29 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Over 250 Fantastic Holidays for you to choose from!
ENGLAND – SOUTH WEST
Your Holiday Hotel
© www.geograph.org.uk – John Bristow
Day 1 A leisurely journey to Sidmouth with a convenient lunch stop en-route. Day 2 We drive to Exmouth where we include a leisurely river cruise. The Exe is a feeding ground for seals so keep a South Devon Railway watchful eye open as we sail through the calm sheltered waters of the Exe. With live commentary this cruise will give you a full insight into the history and scenic splendour of the area including the resident and visiting wildlife. Day 3 A scenic drive today as we make our way to beautiful and inspirational Buckfast Abbey, located on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park. We continue to Buckfastleigh where we enjoy a return train journey on the South Devon Railway. Following the River Dart our journey takes us through the beautiful Devon Hills and beautiful unspoilt countryside. Day 4 A free day to relax and enjoy this charming and elegant resort.
© Flickr – Ed Webster
Holiday Itinerary
55
RELAXED SIDMOUTH Timeless Charm & Elegance
4, 6 or 7 Nights From: £514
West Bay
Sidmouth is a charming and elegant resort and remains our most popular destination – the timeless charm and unhurried way of life offers a perfect recipe for relaxation. This family owned hotel has been delighting our customers for over thirty years.
ENGLAND – SOUTH WEST
Holiday Itinerary (7 Night Tours in Apr/Jul/Sep)
Day 1 A leisurely journey to Sidmouth, stopping for an included lunch en-route. Day 2 Today after breakfast we travel to the seaside town of Seaton where we take a return ride on its unique narrow-gauge tramway travelling through the Axe Valley. Afterwards there will be a short break before rejoining the coach and travel to the Donkey Sanctuary for a short visit. Day 3 We make our way to Killerton, one of the largest estates owned by the National Trust. Killerton is a fine 18th century house with renowned historical fashion collection and glorious gardens. Day 4 A day for rest and relaxation; perhaps browse some of the interesting shops. Day 5 Our excursion today is a ‘Broadchurch Experience’ – Meeting our local guide we travel along Dorset’s stunning Jurassic Coast to West Bay and explore where they filmed David Tennant in Broadchurch. Harbour Lights was also set in the fictitious seaside and harbour town of Bridehaven and filmed mainly in West Bay. We also visit Bridport – a small. Bustling market town where the streets are full of galleries, booksellers, cafes, antique shops and boutiques. Day 6 Today we take a visit to Powderham Castle, the family home of the Earl of Devon. Enjoying a unique picturesque setting within an ancient deer park beside the Exe estuary. Our guided tour of the Castle takes in over 600 years of history. Afterwards we visit nearby Dawlish – famous for its black swans – a traditional seaside resort with red sandstone cliffs overlooking a sandy beach.
Your Holiday Hotels
/ POPULAR FAVOURITES The Kingswood & Devoran Hotel, Sidmouth (March – September Tours) The Royal York & Faulkner Hotel, Sidmouth (October Tour)
Two of our clients’ favourites hotels. Both enjoy superb seafront locations on the Esplanade with excellent sea views. The Kingswood has two sea view lounges and attractive dining room and the Royal York & Faulkner has a restaurant, two bars, three comfortable lounges, hydrotherapy pool (extra charge). Mobility Grade: 5 (both hotels) – Resort: Generally, level. Hotels are on the level with a few steps to some public rooms and a lift to all floors. Steps to some rooms in the Kingswood Hotel.
Day 7 A day at leisure to explore this / Look What’s Included lovely resort and savour the delightful 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own coastal views. Day 8 We return home to the Midlands, courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 or 7 nights half making a stop en-route for our board 4 Lunches on first & last days included lunch. 4 Outlined Excursions 4 Seaton
Holiday Itinerary (4 Night Tours in March & October)
Tramway & The Donkey Sanctuary (7 Nt tours only) 4 Killerton (NT) (7 Nt tours only) 4 Guided Broadchurch Experience (7 Nt tours only) 4 Powderham Castle (7 night tours only) 8 Not included: All other lunches
Day 1 A leisurely journey to Sidmouth with an included lunch en-route. Arriving in the afternoon we have time to settle in and relax before dinner. Day 2 A day at leisure for you to explore and enjoy all that Sidmouth has to offer, not forgetting the beautiful Connaught Gardens. Day 3 A beautiful scenic tour through Dartmoor culminating with an afternoon visit to the delightful market town of Tavistock. Day 4 A lovely excursion visiting the seaside towns of Dawlish and Teignmouth. Day 5 We commence our homeward journey. En-route we stop for an included lunch arriving home during the late afternoon. Fri 13 – Tue 17 March 2020 Kingswood & Devoran
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£514
Sun 26 Apr – Sun 3 May 2020 Kingswood & Devoran
Relaxed Traveller
7 Nights
£895
Fri 24 – Fri 31 July 2020 Kingswood & Devoran
Relaxed Traveller Lux Tvl Coach
7 Nights
£989
Fri 25 Sep – Fri 2 Oct 2020 Kingswood & Devoran
Relaxed Traveller Lux Tvl Coach
7 Nights
£959
Thu 8 – Mon 12 Oct 2020 Royal York & Faulkner
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£579
Departs 10.30am
Returns 5.00pm (Mar/Apr/Jul/Oct) 5.30pm (Sep)
Supplements: 4 Nt Tour (March) Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £60 Sea View: £32 | Holiday Insurance: £28 7 Nt Tours Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £105 Sea View: £56 | Holiday Insurance: £31.50 4 Nts (October) Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £28 These departures include the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Discounts Available on 7 Night tours for (NT) National Trust Members
56 All Tours are operated either by our Club Class, Extra Legroom Coaches or our NEW Luxury Traveller Coaches
4 Nights From: £598 West Somerset Railway
Clevedon is a charming seaside town whose elegance and appeal has plenty to offer all ages. Here, sand gives way to a pebbled shoreline, backed by largely unspoilt Victorian architecture. The restored Grade I listed pier dates from 1869 and is recognised as one of the finest in the country.
© Flickr – stevekeiretsu
& Secrets of Somerset
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our Own Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Entrance to SS Great Britain 4 Gough’s Cave at Cheddar Gorge 4 Train ride on the West Somerset Railway 4 Tyntesfield (NT) 8 Not included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Sunday We take a leisurely drive to the West Country, making a stop en-route to visit the SS Great Britain, the world’s first great ocean liner, which is based at Bristol. In the afternoon we continue the short drive to our hotel in Clevedon, our base for the next 4-nights. Monday After breakfast we spend time to explore Clevedon before visiting the great seaside resort of Weston-super-Mare. Here we find all the traditional seaside attractions, including the famous beach donkeys! The wide sweep of Weston Bay has miles of clean sandy beach and a level promenade boasting superb views over the Bristol Channel. Tuesday We visit spectacular Cheddar Gorge, a place of wild and rugged beauty. Admission is included to Gough’s Cave (please wear sensible footwear & be fairly steady on your legs). We continue to Wells, England’s smallest city. Wander the medieval streets and look at the 800-year old Cathedral and Bishops Palace. Wednesday Travel to Bishops Lydeard for a scenic train ride on the West Somerset Railway. Our 23-mile journey takes us through the heart of the scenic Quantock Hills passing unspoilt villages and farms nestling in leafy lanes. Upon arrival at Minehead, we meet up again with our coach and continue to lovely Dunster, which has an imposing castle. Thursday Departing Clevedon we visit Tyntesfield (NT), a fine Victorian country house. Spiralling turrets and pinnacles adorn the roof; ornate stone carvings and church like windows complete the gothic look, giving the feel of a mysterious fairytale mansion. Terraced lawns give way to spacious parkland filled with hundreds of trees and a walled garden beyond. We return home during the afternoon.
4 Nights From: £479 Sherborne
A new tour for 2020 following the footsteps of Thomas Hardy, enjoying the beautiful countryside and idyllic rural charm of Dorset’s historic towns.
4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 8 Not Included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Monday Sit back and relax on board our coach as we make our way south to Dorset. After a convenient stop for lunch en-route we arrive at our hotel during the afternoon. Tuesday Today, we visit Bridport and West Bay. West Bay was the setting for TV’s ‘Broadchurch’. From here we continue to the historic coastal resort of Lyme Regis. Close to the Devon border Lyme Regis is home to the famous Cobb and harbour (Please note that access to the town and promenade from the coach park is via a steep incline and may prove Lyme Regi challenging for those with reduced mobility). Wednesday This morning we visit nearby Dorchester, the county town of Dorset, the fictional ‘Casterbridge’ of Thomas Hardy novels. After free time here we head to Weymouth, with its fine Georgian seafront and award-winning beach. Be sure to visit the picturesque harbour, alive with colour and activity. Thursday Our day begins with a drive to Sherborne, one of England’s most beautiful towns, with an abundance of medieval buildings, a superb Abbey, Almshouse and two castles. From here we make our way to Shaftesbury, an ancient hilltop town and famous as the home to cobbled ‘Gold Hill’, star of the Hovis adverts (The steep access to Gold Hill may prove challenging for those with reduced mobility) Friday We commence our homeward journey, arriving home during the afternoon.
A traditional hotel standing in its own Cliffside grounds approximately ½ a mile from the pier with wonderful views across the Bristol Channel. Restaurant and bar/lounge. Mobility Grade: 4 – Location and hotel fairly level but with cliff top location. Lift to all floors.
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
The George Albert Hotel is a private, family owned hotel located in the rolling Dorset countryside between the county towns of Yeovil and Dorchester. Offering all the modern facilities you would expect from a new hotel, it still retains a distinctive friendly atmosphere. Restaurant, lounge & bar. Mobility Grade: 4 – All areas of the hotel have easy access with no steps; a lift is available to access bedrooms all of which are located on the 1st floor.
£598
Returns 4.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £40 | Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Discounts available for (NT) National Trust Members
Mon 23 – Fri 27 Mar 2020
4 Nights
£479
Mon 5 – Fri 9 Oct 2020
4 Nights
£509
Departs 9.30am (Mar) 11.00am (Oct) Returns 4.30pm (Mar) 4.00pm (Oct) Supplements Single Room £72 (Mar) £80 (Oct) | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
All Tours are operated either by our Club Class, Extra Legroom Coaches or our NEW Luxury Traveller Coaches
ENGLAND – SOUTH WEST
The George Albert Hotel, Warndon Hill, Evershot Nr Dorchester, Dorset
Best Western Walton Park Hotel, Clevedon
Departs 9.00am
/ Look What’s Included
Your Holiday Hotel
Your Holiday Hotel
Sun 6 – Thu 10 Sept 2020
© Flickr – Roman Hobler
DORSET DELIGHTS
© Phil Guest_Flickr
CLEVEDON
57
WEYMOUTH & the Jurassic Coast
4&5 Nights From: £509
Weymouth
4 Night EASTER Holiday Itinerary – Departing Fri 10 April
Weymouth is a classic holiday resort situated on the great sweep of Weymouth Bay, with superb views and an award-winning beach and panoramic Esplanade. We take in some lovely coastal scenery, including the 180-million-year-old Jurassic Coast and a ride on the Swanage Railway.
ENGLAND – SOUTH WEST 58
Sunday We journey south arriving in Weymouth in the afternoon. Monday An excursion to discover the Isle of Purbeck. Arriving at Norden we board our train for a delightful ride on the Swanage Railway through pretty Corfe Castle to the lively seaside resort of Swanage. During the afternoon, we take the Sandbanks chain ferry to Poole, and enjoy some free time to explore the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens historic quay area with its fine array of shops. Tuesday A day at leisure in Weymouth to explore the award-winning beach, picturesque harbour and traffic-free centre. Wednesday Today, we travel to Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, a woodland garden of splendid trees and shrubs of immense variety. We continue to West Bay, known as ‘The Golden Gateway to the Jurassic Coast’. West Bay, has two beaches, a harbour and marina, and was used as a filming location in the hit TV series Broadchurch. Thursday We take a morning excursion to the Isle of Portland, a peninsula joined to the mainland by the narrow spit of Chesil Beach. The amazing views of Weymouth and the Dorset coast are as famous as the local ‘Portland stone’, a much-prized limestone used in civic buildings throughout the U.K. We include a guided tour of Portland Castle, before returning to Weymouth for some free time. Friday Departing Weymouth we make a stop for lunch in historic Salisbury before heading home.
© www.geograph.org.uk – Eugene Birchall
5 Night Holiday Itinerary
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE Hotel Rex, Weymouth Situated on the promenade, overlooking the beach and just a short stroll from the town centre and harbour. Restaurant, bar and lounge. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality: Fairly flat. Hotel: steps to entrance. Isolated steps throughout. Lift to all floors.
4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Outlined Excursions 4 Entrance to
Friday We journey south arriving in Weymouth in the afternoon. Abbotsbury Sub-Tropical Gardens (All Saturday A day at leisure in Tours) 4 Train ride on the Swanage Weymouth. Railway (All Tours) 4 Guided tour of Sunday Abbotsbury Subtropical Portland Castle (5 night tour only) 8 Not included: All lunches Gardens * West Bay (As Above). Monday The Isle of Purbeck * Swanage Railway from Norden to Swanage * Sandbanks chain ferry to Poole (As Above). Tuesday Homeward Bound.
Chesil Beach
EASTER Fri 10 – Tue 14 April 2020
4 Nights
£509
5 Nights
£695
Sun 21 – Fri 26 June 2020
5 Nights
£679
Sun 13 – Fri 18 Sept 2020
5 Nights
£689
Sun 10 – Fri 15 May 2020 Your Holiday Hotel
/ Look What’s Included
Lux Tvl Coach
Departs 9.00am (Apr) 10.00am (May/Jun) 11.00am (Sep) Returns 4.30pm (Apr) 6.00pm (May) 5.00pm (Jun) 5.30pm (Sep) Supplements Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £100 (4 Nt Tour) £125 (5 Nt Tour) Holiday Insurance: £28 (4 Nts) £29 (5 Nts) This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Enjoy the Views – Treasure the Memories
RELAXED BOURNEMOUTH
BOURNEMOUTH & The New Forest
4 Nights From: £569
4 Nights From: £599 Compton Acres
Nestled in a sheltered bay on the South Coast of England in the picturesque county of Dorset, there is plenty of things to do in Bournemouth. With seven miles of sandy beaches and a host of beautiful parks and gardens there’s plenty for you to enjoy.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 2 Lunches 4 Outlined Excursions 4 Entrance to Athelhampton House & Gardens 4 Entrance to the Beaulieu Estate & Bucklers Hard 4 Beaulieu River Cruise (Sept Tour Only) 8 Not included: 3 lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Sunday We travel south, making an included lunch stop en-route and arrive at our hotel during the early afternoon. Monday We travel eastwards and visit the Beaulieu Estate with an inclusive ticket providing admission to The National Motor Museum, Palace House, Gardens & Grounds & Beaulieu Abbey. In the afternoon, we continue to Buckler’s Hard where there is time to explore the village, Maritime Museum and cottages before the 45min river cruise. (NB: No River Cruise available on March Tour). Tuesday A day at leisure to relax and enjoy Bournemouth Wednesday We drive to the remarkable 15th century Athelhampton House & Gardens, one of the finest Tudor houses in England. Here you can step back in time and view the beautiful historic house and stunning gardens. Thursday We depart our hotel, making a convenient stop en-route for our included lunch, arriving home during the late afternoon.
Your Holiday Hotel
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE The Hotel Miramar, Bournemouth
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£599
Sun 27 Sep – Thu 1 Oct 2020
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£649
Departs 10.30am
Returns 5.00pm (Mar) 3.30pm (Sep)
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Sea View: £100 Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Holiday Itinerary
Monday We travel south to Bournemouth arriving at our hotel during the afternoon. Welcome drinks reception before dinner on our first night. Tuesday Today we visit Compton Acres, the South’s finest privately-owned gardens with a unique series of stunning gardens and spectacular views. Having undergone extensive refurbishment in the past 10 years, Compton Acres has 10 acres of beautiful gardens and is now highly regarded as one of the most important historic gardens in the UK. Wednesday A day at leisure to relax and enjoy Bournemouth Thursday We enjoy a guided tour along the back roads and byways of the New Forest, passing such locations as Beaulieu, Bucklers Hard and Brockenhurst before making a stop in Lyndhurst. Ponies, donkeys, deer, cattle and occasionally pigs still roam freely in the unspoilt woodland, heath and marshland Friday Today we are homeward bound, arriving home during the afternoon. Your Holiday Hotel
Superbly situated overlooking Bournemouth Bay and offering very high standards of food, décor and service. Restaurant & bar/lounge, terrace lounge, patio and executive lounge. Mobility Grade: 3 – Resort: Level cliff top walks, gradients to shopping centre and pier. Hotel: Level location. Lift to all floors.
Sun 29 Mar – Thu 2 Apr 2020
Bournemouth has long been / Look What’s Included recognised as one of Britain’s 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own most fashionable resorts, courier service 4 Club Class Extra offering the visitor a wide variety Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board of attractions. The town is one of 4 Welcome drinks reception on first night 4Outlined Excursions 4 the leading shopping centres in Entrance to Compton Acres 4 Guided the south, with arcades, markets tour of the New Forest 8 Not Included: All lunches and boutiques, whilst the wooded Chines which slope down to the sea are only a small part of Bournemouth’s beautiful parks and gardens
The Hilton Hotel, Bournemouth Perfectly positioned just five minutes from the Golden Beach and Town Centre. Lounge bar, restaurant, fitness room, health club and beauty salon. Mobility Grade: 3 – Resort: Slight gradients outside hotel. Level access throughout the hotel Lifts to all floors. Please note that this is a modern hotel with most bathrooms containing a walk-in shower.
Mon 18 – Fri 22 May 2020
Singles Galore
Departs 11.00am
Returns 3.00pm
4 Nights
£569
Supplements Doubles for Sole Use: £165 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Insurance Premium Prices FROZEN – All Holiday Insurance Prices held at last year’s rates!
ENGLAND – SOUTH & SOUTH EAST
Bournemouth
© Flickr – Charles D P Miller
Athelhampton – Beaulieu Estate – Bucklers Hard
59
SHANKLIN & The Isle of Wight
4&7 Nights From: £579
Shanklin
Day 5 A late morning excursion to the / Look What’s Included picture-postcard setting of Godshill, 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own where we include entrance to the courier service 4 Club Class Extra marvellous Model Village – a 1/10 Legroom Coach 4 Return Ferry 4 4 or scale model of Godshill and Shanklin 7 nights half board 4 Lunches on first Old Town that nestles in the grounds & last days 4 Osborne House (EH) & Whippingham Church 4 Isle of Wight of the Old Vicarage. Set in nearly two acres of gorgeous landscaped gardens Steam Railway (7 night tours only) 4 Godshill Model Village (7 night tours this is truly a quintessentially English only) 8 Not included: All other visitor attraction. Free time at leisure lunches in the afternoon. Day 6 A day at leisure in Shanklin. Day 7 Today we have included a visit to Osborne House (EH) – Queen Victoria’s palatial holiday home on the Isle of Wight. We also visit nearby Whippingham Church, where Victoria and Albert were once regular members of the congregation. Day 8 We catch our ferry back to the mainland and onwards to the Midlands with an included lunch en-route.
The popularity of this wonderful, unspoilt isle owes much to its southerly position and mild and sunny climate. Our relaxing itinerary includes many of the highlights of this lovely island. Holiday Itinerary (7 Night Tour)
60
Holiday Itinerary (4 Night Tour)
Godshill Model Village
Isle of Wight Steam Railway
Sat 6 – Sat 13 June 2020 Your Holiday Hotel
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE The Brunswick Hotel, Shanklin
An outstanding family-run hotel in a superb quiet location, directly overlooking the sea. Close to the shops and cliff lift. Restaurant, lounge/bar, lounge and sauna. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality: Fairly level. Hotel: A few stairs in public areas.
Sat 19 – Sat 26 Sept 2020
Lux Tvl Coach Relaxed Traveller Relaxed Traveller
7 Nights
£965
7 Nights
£914
4 Nights
£579
Mon 12 – Fri 16 Oct 2020
Relaxed Traveller
Departs 9.30am
Returns 6.00pm (Jun/Sep) 6.30pm (Oct)
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £28 (4 Nt) £31.50 (7 Nts) This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Sightseeing Excursions are Included in the Price – On All Holidays!
© www.geograph.org.uk – Paul Gillett
Day 1: Travel to the Isle of Wight. Day 2: Island Tour. Day 3: At leisure in Shanklin. Day 4: Osborne House. Day 5: We travel homeward.
© Godshill Model Village
ENGLAND – SOUTH & SOUTH EAST
Day 1 The outward journey includes a stop for an included lunch before sailing to the Isle of Wight, arriving at our hotel in time for dinner. Day 2 A leisurely tour of the island. On the west of the island there is spectacular scenery, where sheer cliffs plunge down to the English Channel. We visit Freshwater Bay before reaching Alum Bay, with its colourful sands and famed Needles rocks. Day 3 Today is free to enjoy your surroundings and explore the lovely resort. Day 4 Today we include a train ride on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway. Hauled by a vintage steam locomotive we enjoy a special journey back in time. In the afternoon, we continue to the seafront town of Ryde.
SANDOWN
THE BEAUTIFUL SOUTH
& The Isle of Wight
Bognor Regis & West Sussex Delights 4&5 Nights From: £549
Osborne House
The ‘Diamond Isle’ as it is known, has a peaceful beauty and an indefinable charm, along with a particularly mild and sunny climate. You can enjoy colourful views of sailing activity in the Solent, whilst inland, amidst picturesque countryside; there are quaint villages and bustling market towns.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 or 5 nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 Mottistone Manor Garden (NT) 4 Calbourne Water Mill & Museum 4 Whippingham Church 4 Osborne House (EH) 4 The Isle of Wight Steam Railway (5 Nt Tours Only) 8 Not Included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary (5 Night Tour)
Day 1 A morning departure for the south coast and our sailing to the Isle of Wight, arriving at the Trouville Hotel during the afternoon. Day 2 We travel along the scenic ‘military’ coastal road of West Wight pausing at Isle of Wight Pearl before visiting Mottistone Manor Garden (NT), a magical five-acre Elizabethan Manor garden. We continue to nearby Calbourne Water Mill and Museum. Set in peaceful countryside we discover a working Water Mill dating from the Doomsday Book. Day 3 A day at leisure in our resort Day 4 We visit Whippingham Church, with its connections to Queen Victoria followed by Osborne House (EH), her seaside residence. Marvel at the sumptuous décor of the Royal Apartments and take an intimate glimpse into the private life of the Victorian royal family. Day 5 Today we include a train ride on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway. Hauled by a vintage steam locomotive we enjoy a special journey back in time. The evocative smells of a steam railway along with the sound of the puffing and hissing of the steam engine, entice us to settle back in beautifully restored Victorian and Edwardian carriages while enjoying a unique view of some of the Island’s unspoilt countryside. In the afternoon we allow free time in the Island’s main town, Newport Day 6 Homeward bound today, we catch the ferry back to the mainland and onwards to the Midlands.
4 Nights From: £579 Worthing
Long hours of sunshine and award-winning beaches make Bognor Regis one of the most popular seaside resorts on the south coast; just minutes away from the tranquillity and beauty of the South Downs.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Portsmouth Historic Dockyard 4 Parham House & Gardens 4 Arundel Castle 8 Not included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Monday Relax as we journey south, arriving at our hotel during the afternoon for our 4-night stay. Tuesday Today we visit Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard where our ‘All Attractions’ ticket allows you the freedom to come and go at will. Enjoy a 45minute Harbour Boat Cruise, walk the decks of HMS Victory & HMS Warrior. Visit the 20th century galleries and the Trafalgar Experience at the National Museum of the Royal Navy, and an adventure packed trip to Action Stations. Wednesday This morning we travel towards the South Downs and visit Arundel, a charismatic stylish market town famous for its landmarks Arundel Castle and Arundel Cathedral. We include entrance to the annual Allium Extravaganza at the magnificent Arundel Castle, where traditionally thousands of pom-pom headed alliums will burst into bloom. Free time also to explore the town’s quaint narrow streets and specialist shops. And Gothic Cathedral. Thursday This morning, we visit Parham House & Gardens – one of the finest Elizabethan Houses in the country, complete with Great Hall and Long Gallery. Its tranquillity and timeless beauty have changed little over the centuries. Spend time to discover the spectacular gardens and 4-acre walled before we continue to the delightful south coast resort of Worthing with its long promenade, grand pier, pavilion and landscaped gardens. Friday Departing our hotel after breakfast we commence our return journey, where after a suitable stop for lunch en-route we arrive home during the afternoon.
Day 1: Travel to the Isle of Wight. Day 2: West Wight – Mottistone Manor Garden (NT) & Calbourne Waster Mill/Museum. Day 3: At leisure in Sandown. Day 4: Osborne House. Day 5: We travel homeward. Your Holiday Hotel Arundel Castle
The Trouville Hotel, Sandown ©VisitBritain – Pete Seaward
Gloriously situated directly overlooking the sea, opposite the golden beach. Split-level restaurant with panoramic views over the bay, bar, lounge and regular entertainment. All twin/double bedded rooms have sea views at no supplement, ballroom, indoor leisure complex with four lanes for short mat bowls. Mobility Grade: 3 – Hotel has a level sea front location with easy access to Sandown Pier. A few gentle steps at entrance. Incline to main town. A few steps within hotel but lift serves all floors.
Sat 9 – Thu 14 May 2020
5 Nights
£589
Mon 20 – Fri 24 Jul 2020
4 Nights
£549
Tue 15 – Sun 20 Sep 2020
5 Nights
£645
Departs 9.30am (May/Sep) 10.30am (Jul) Returns 6.00pm (All Dates) Supplements: Single Room: Nil | Single Side Sea View: £60 (4 Nt) £75 (5 Nt) | Double Sea View for Sole Use: £140 (4 Nt) £175 (5 Nts) | Holiday Insurance: £28 (4 Nts) £29 (5 Nts) | (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) | Reductions available for (EH) English Heritage Members | Discounts available for (NT) National Trust Members
Your Holiday Hotel Best Western Beachcroft Hotel, Bognor Regis Our hotel commands a unique sea front location in the village of Felpham, near to Bognor Regis. There are 35 mostly sea facing bedrooms. Restaurant and bar. Mobility Grade: 3 – Resort & Hotel: Generally, level. Unavoidable steps throughout hotel. No lift but rooms are on two floors only.
Mon 11 – Fri 15 May 2020 Departs 10.30am
4 Nights Returns 4.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £80 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Travel with Johnsons – Travel with Friends
£579
ENGLAND – SOUTH & SOUTH EAST
4 Night Holiday Itinerary
61
WINCHESTER & THE ‘CLOTH OF GOLD’ Hampton Court – Mary Rose – Mid-Hants Railway
©VisitBritain – Ben Selway
NEW TOUR
4 Nights From: £639
In June 2020, it will be 500 years since King Henry VIII of England met King Francis I of France near Calais, for an astonishingly grand European Renaissance festival, designed to improve relations between the two great rival kingdoms. The competing royal dynasties, along with thousands of their courtiers and knights, enjoyed a splendid fortnight of feasts, tournaments, masquerades and religious services amidst specially built, and incredibly elaborate, temporary tent palaces. So magnificent was the affair that it became known as ‘The Field of Cloth of Gold’. The Historic Royal Palaces will be celebrating the anniversary with a special exhibition, focusing on the events of 1520, and revealing the characters and stories behind the organisation and festivities.
ENGLAND – SOUTH & SOUTH EAST
Holiday Itinerary
62
Thursday We visit the Cathedral City of Winchester before checking in to our hotel for our 4-night stay. Friday This morning, we make our way to Henry VIII’s former palace at Hampton Court. We enjoy a 1.5-hour private guided tour focusing on the elaborate Field of Cloth of Gold festival held 500 years ago, learning more about the history of this famous event before enjoying the exhibition and fascinating paintings from The Royal Collection that were commissioned in commemoration. After our tour, we have free time for lunch and to enjoy the elaborate gardens and famous maze before returning to our hotel. Saturday Today we travel through the Surrey countryside to the naval city of Portsmouth, where we visit the historic Mary Rose, the iconic flagship of King Henry VIII. Famously raised from the seabed in 1982, the ship is now exhibited alongside a series of annual exhibitions. We discover the decks of the Mary Rose as we walk through the galleries before continuing to Gunwharf Quays, an ideal location for lunch and shopping, where we include High Tea and Your Holiday Hotel Norton Park Hotel, Nr Winchester, Hampshire Norton Park is one of the finest hotels in Hampshire, set within its own 54 acres of parkland. All 166 bedrooms are elegant and contemporary in style with some rooms being accessed by a covered walkway. The warm and welcoming restaurant is located on the first floor and there is a stylish bar and lounge. Excellent leisure facilities include an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi. Mobility Grade: 4 – Ground floor rooms, Lift access.
Entrance to Spinnaker Tower before / Look What’s Included returning to our hotel in the afternoon. Sunday We visit the Georgian market 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra town of Alresford, the home of Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board Hampshire’s historical watercress 4 Welcome tea/coffee on arrival industry, where we board a Mid Hants 4 Guided tour of Hampton Court 4 Entrance to Mary Rose Exhibition Railway vintage train for a 1.5-hour 4 Entrance & High Tea at Spinnaker round trip on the Watercress Line. Tower 4 Train ride on Mid-Hants In the afternoon, we head for rural Railway 4 Self-Discovery Tour of Hampshire to enjoy a ‘self-discovery’ Bombay Sapphire 4 Alexander Keiller Museum 8 Not included: All lunches tour of the Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery, where we discover the Glasshouses, the Botanical Dry Room and the Dakin Still House before enjoying a drink suited to our personal taste profile in the Mill Bar. (Open toed shoes & high heels are not permitted on this visit). Monday Departing our hotel we head to Avebury (EH). The largest stone circle in the World, Avebury was erected around 4,500 years ago and consists of around 100 stones. The Alexander Keiller Museum in the village holds many of the archaeological finds that Keiller discovered during the excavations of Avebury during this time and the history of the excavations. Today Avebury is managed by the National Hampton Court Palace Trust. The site is open daily (due to its village location) and visitors can not only explore the stone circle but also the Avenue, the West Kennett Long Barrow and can look over at Silbury Hill – the largest man-made hill in Europe. Similarly, to Stonehenge, Avebury plays host to both Winter and Summer Solstices. We return home in the afternoon. Thu 28 May – Mon 1 June 2020 Departs 9.00am
4 Nights
©VisitBritain – Historic Royal Palaces
Spinnaker Tower
£639
Returns 5.30pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £102 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Discounts available for (EH) English Heritage & (NT) National Trust Members
Johnsons – A Family business for over 110 years!
RELAXED WORTHING
THE BRIGHTON BELLE
Brighton
Enjoy the seaside on the / Look What’s Included southern coast of England 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own overlooked by the South Downs, courier service 4 Club Class Extra England’s newest National Park. Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Lunches on first & last days Our base is the resort of 4 Entrance to Amberley Museum & Worthing – boasting five miles Heritage Centre 4 Guided tour of of level seafront with a splendid Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens 8 Not included: All other lunches art deco pier, palm tree-lined promenade and glorious parks and gardens to explore at your leisure.
Visit stylish Brighton and discover miles of glorious beaches bordered by a lovely wide promenade. Take a stroll on the pier or explore the maze of little streets called The Lanes. There’s also the Brighton Pavilion to see – a Royal Beach House built in Indian style – an amazing treat full of treasures.
Holiday Itinerary
Holiday Itinerary
Your Holiday Hotel
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 Ride on the Bluebell Railway & Entrance to Sheffield Park & Gardens (NT) 8 Not included: All lunches
Sunday We travel to Brighton making a convenient stop in Windsor en-route, with time for lunch. Arriving in Brighton in the afternoon enjoy tea on arrival whilst your bags are taken to your room. 3-course table service Sheffield Park dinner followed by a relaxing evening. Monday We drive to Sheffield Park where we are treated to a return heritage train journey on the Bluebell Railway. Our joint ticket then allows us to explore Sheffield Park & Gardens (NT), a place of stunning reflections and views and amazing plants. Tuesday A free day to explore the variety of attractions Brighton has to offer. Our hotel is within walking distance of the Lanes shopping area, the famous Brighton Pier and a short distance away is the Royal Pavilion Wednesday Today we drive to Eastbourne – Famed for its Victorian buildings, fabulous level, seafront promenade and pier. Wander through the gardens of the Western Lawns and discover the Wish Tower, one of the 74 Martello Towers built in the early 1800’s along the south coast to help prevent an invasion from Napoleons troops. Thursday We make the leisurely drive home to the Midlands, making a suitable stop for lunch en-route.
© Flickr – David Nicholls
Day 1 We travel south, making an included lunch stop en-route and arrive at our hotel during the early afternoon. Day 2 After a leisurely breakfast we start our morning with a journey to Arundel, a beautiful small town dominated by its Castle. We give you time to wander its streets before we continue to Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre which resides in the heart of the South Downs National Park. Established in 1979 it seeks to reflect the industrial and transport heritage of the area with over 40 exhibits such as listed buildings, village shop & garage and a narrow-gauge railway. After a day of remembering the past we return to our hotel in Worthing. Day 3 Today is a free morning to explore Worthing. Then in the afternoon join us for a short drive along the coast to Brighton with its traditional seafront and trendy precincts. Day 4 This morning we travel through the Sussex countryside to the city of Chichester with its magnificent 900-year old Norman Cathedral and ancient city walls. In the afternoon we continue to Fishbourne Roman Palace and Gardens which houses the largest collection of Roman mosaic floors in Britain. We include a Guided Tour where we see the Palace reconstructed to its former glory in an introductory film and follow in the footsteps of our Roman ancestors as you wander around Britain’s first garden, the lavish centrepiece of the Palace. Day 5 We depart our hotel, making a convenient stop en-route for our included lunch, arriving home during the late afternoon.
Your Holiday Hotel The Old Ship, Brighton
The Chatsworth House Hotel, Worthing One of the finest hotels the South Coast has to offer. The Chatsworth is located off the promenade overlooking Steyne Gardens, within the town centre. A Grade II listed building that is steeped in history with a gorgeous Georgian frontage that offers 97 guest rooms with all todays modern amenities. Restaurant, bar/lounge, terrace lounge & patio. Mobility Grade: 4 – Steps or ramp entrance with level access throughout. Rooms are over 3 floors which are accessible via 2 lifts. 13 Rooms with walk-in shower with step into the shower cubicle. No ground floor rooms.
The most historic hotel in Brighton and located in the heart of the city centre and overlooking Brighton’s glorious seafront. Restaurant and lounge/bar. Mobility Grade: 4 – The location is level, steps to the entrance with alternative entrance available. Occasional steps in the corridors and some rooms. Lift to all floors.
Sun 5 – Thu 9 April 2020
4 Nights
£495
Sun 12 – Thu 16 July 2020
4 Nights
£524
4 Nights
£524
Thu 11 – Mon 15 June 2020 Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£659
Sun 13 – Thu 17 Sept 2020
Fri 21 – Tue 25 Aug 2020
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£649
Departs 9.00am
Departs 10.00am
Returns 5.30pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £40 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
© Flickr – Arild
Amberley Museum
4 Nights From: £495
Returns 4.30pm (Apr/Jul) 5.30pm (Sep)
Supplements Double for Sole Use: £120 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Reductions available for (NT) National Trust Members
Call 01564 797000 or visit www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk
ENGLAND – SOUTH & SOUTH EAST
4 Nights From: £649
© www.geograph.org.uk – Peter Trimming
& The South Downs
63
RELAXED EASTBOURNE & Romantic Sussex
4, 5 or 7 Nights From: £479
Seven Sisters
ENGLAND – SOUTH & SOUTH EAST
Holiday Itinerary (7 Night Tours in Jul/Aug)
64
Saturday We travel to the Sussex Coast, making a stop for our included lunch en-route, arriving in our resort during the afternoon. Sunday We cross the South Downs to enjoy the views at Beachy Head, reaching Birling Gap. Return via the scenic Seven Sisters to Alfriston, one of the oldest and prettiest villages in Sussex. Monday A day at leisure in Eastbourne. Tuesday The magnificent, informal landscape gardens at Sheffield Park (NT) were laid out in the 18th century by ‘Capability’ Brown and further developed in the early years of the 20th century with four lakes forming its centrepiece. This afternoon we journey back in time aboard a steam train for a ride through the picturesque Sussex countryside aboard the Bluebell Railway. Wednesday A day at leisure in Eastbourne, where you might be fortunate enough to catch a concert at the Grand Parade Bandstand. Stroll along Eastbourne Pier to enjoy a cup of tea in the Victorian tearooms or visit the Wish Tower, from where you can visit the Lifeboat Museum, Heritage Centre and Winter Gardens. Thursday This morning we visit the Carr-Taylor Vineyard at Westfield before continuing to historical Rye – With its enchanting cobbled streets, medieval church and beautifully preserved houses. Friday Today we visit Pashley Manor Gardens – a quintessential English garden located on the Sussex and Kent border in the heart of South East England’s garden country. Pashley offers a sumptuous blend of romantic landscaping, imaginative plantings and fine old trees, fountains, springs and large ponds. Saturday We return homeward, making a stop for our included lunch en-route, arriving during the late afternoon. Your Holiday Hotel New Wilmington Hotel, Eastbourne This friendly family run hotel is located very close to the sea, bandstand, Wish Tower, Winter Gardens and Devonshire Park. The pier and shopping centre are only a few minutes away. Restaurant, lounge, bar and spacious dining room. Mobility Grade: 4 – The resort and hotel are on the level. Hotel has isolated steps and a lift serving most floors.
Holiday Itinerary (4 Night Tours in Apr/Oct)
Day 1 We travel to the Sussex Coast, making a stop for our included lunch en-route, arriving in our resort during the afternoon. Day 2 Beachy Head, Birling Gap, Seven Sisters & Alfriston (As Above). Day 3 Carr-Taylor Vineyard at Westfield & Rye (As Above) Day 4 A day at leisure in Eastbourne (As Above) Day 5 We return homeward, making a stop for our included lunch en-route, arriving during the afternoon.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 2 Lunches 4 Entertainment on some evenings 4 Outlined Excursions 4 Sheffield Park (NT) & The Bluebell Railway (5 & 7 Nt tours) 4 Carr Taylor
Vineyards (4 & 7 night tours)
4 Pashley Manor Gardens (5 & 7 night tours) 8 Not Included: All other
lunches
Holiday Itinerary (5 Night Tour in Jun)
Thu We travel to the Sussex Coast, making a stop for our included lunch en-route, arriving in our resort during the afternoon. Fri Pashley Manor Gardens (As Above) Sat A day at leisure in Eastbourne (As Above) Sun Sheffield Park (NT) & Bluebell Railway (As Above) Mon Beachy Head, Birling Gap, Pashley Manor Gardens Seven Sisters & Alfriston (As Above). Tue We return homeward, making a stop for our included lunch en-route, arriving during the afternoon.
Thu 9 – Mon 13 April 2020
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£479
Thu 4 – Tue 9 June 2020
Relaxed Traveller
5 Nights
£619
Sat 18 – Sat 25 July 2020
Relaxed Traveller
7 Nights
£829
Sat 29 Aug – Sat 5 Sept 2020
Relaxed Traveller
7 Nights
£819
Sat 24 – Wed 28 Oct 2020
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£489
Departs 11.00am (Apr) 10.30am (Jun-Oct) Returns 4.30pm (All Dates) Supplements Single Room: £42 (4 Nts) £45 (5 Nts) £63 (7 Nts) Holiday Insurance: £28 (4 Nts) £29 (5 Nts) £31.50 (7 Nts) (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Reductions available for (NT) National Trust Members
Free Door to Door Home Pick-Up Service on All Holidays
© Pashley Manor Gardens – David Dixon
Eastbourne is one of England’s most elegant seaside resorts with a wide promenade extending along the broad shingle beach. A relaxed holiday atmosphere pervades the Grand Parade, with its famous old pier dating from 1870 and the remarkable bandstand of 1935. Beyond the town the cliff top rises to the foothills of the South Downs, while the lower promenade leads to gardens with fine views across the bay to Hastings.
EASTBOURNE
STATELY HOMES
South Downs & Historic Towns
6 Nights From: £779
3 Nights From: £489 Blenheim Palace
There are few seaside towns quite as quintessentially British as Eastbourne. With its extensive beach, rows of beach huts, pier and promenade the town has retained much of its Victorian character and charm. Holiday Itinerary
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 6 nights half board (Buffet Dinners) 4 Entrances to Michelham Priory & Sheffield Park Gardens (NT) 4 Return train ride on the Bluebell Railway from Sheffield Park to East Grinstead 8 Not included: All lunches
Friday Following a morning departure and a suitable stop for lunch en-route we arrive in Eastbourne during the afternoon Saturday We explore the bustling market town of Lewes in the morning. There are many historic buildings to admire including the Norman Castle which dominates the townscape. We follow this with a visit to the picturesque village of Alfriston. Nestling in the Cuckmere Valley, it is full of charming old buildings, gift shops, tea rooms and traditional inns. En-route back to the hotel, we stop to admire the spectacular chalk cliffs at Beachy Head. Sunday A morning visit to Michelham Priory – England’s longest water filled moat surrounds the site which dates back to 1229. Monday Today is free in Eastbourne. Tuesday The magnificent, informal landscape gardens at Sheffield Park (NT) were laid out in the 18th century by ‘Capability’ Brown and further developed in the early years of the 20th century with four lakes forming its centrepiece. This afternoon we journey back in time aboard a steam train for a ride through the picturesque Sussex countryside aboard the Bluebell Railway. Wednesday Today we to Brighton, with its beachfront chic and iconic tourist attractions such as the Royal Pavilion with its exotic oriental architecture. Enjoy a stroll along the famous ‘prom’ or head to the ‘Lanes’ area, which is crammed with interesting boutiques. Thursday We say goodbye to our hosts and start our journey home. Your Holiday Hotel
We are delighted to introduce this gardens-themed weekend break to Surrey, one of England’s delightful southern counties. Holiday Itinerary
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 3 nights half board 4 Hampton Court Place & Gardens 4 RHS Wisley 4 Hatchlands Park (NT) 4 Blenheim Palace 8 Not included: All lunches
Friday We journey via Windsor to our hotel for our 3-night stay. Saturday Our first stop today is in delightful Richmond-upon-Thames with chance to explore, relax by the river or on Richmond Green – London’s largest town centre open space, or browse the shops and obtain a drink and bite to eat. Later, we continue to Hampton Court Palace where we include entry to the Palace Wisley Gardens and Gardens. Acquired by Henry VIII in 1520, a succession of Royal occupants has made sure the Palace has a superb collection of furnishings and art. The formal 60-acre gardens include the famous Maze. Sunday A short drive this morning takes us just along the road to the splendid Royal Horticultural Society Garden at Wisley. The garden here is a place full of inspiration, Wisley offers ideas galore, with Wild Garden, Glasshouse, Model Gardens, Fruit Field, Arboretum and spectacular floral displays. After seeing the garden, you can obtain a drink and bite to eat at the café. From here we move on to Hatchlands Park (NT), near Guildford. This is a perfect area to explore and nestled in the parkland is a Georgian country house built for a naval hero, Admiral Boscawen. Monday Following breakfast we check-out and travel to exquisite Blenheim Palace. Home to the 12th Duke of Marlborough and birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Enter the Palace and discover the gilded State Rooms and priceless collections set against striking stonework, and explore beautiful parkland, sweeping lawns, formal gardens and the magnificent Lake. After our visit we continue our homeward journey.
The View Hotel, Eastbourne Superior 3- to 4-star Standard Your Holiday Hotel Situated on the main promenade, the beach is just a few steps away. Rooms are air-conditioned and many have stunning views across the English Channel. Restaurant, lounge menu and bar. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality & hotel are generally level throughout. Lift to all floors. Please note meals are ‘Buffet Style’.
Fri 24 – Thu 30 April 2020 Departs 9.30am
Lux Tvl Coach
6 Nights
The Hilton Hotel, Cobham The Hilton Hotel Cobham is a lovely hotel in the heart of the Surrey countryside. Hotel facilities include bar, restaurant and leisure centre with indoor swimming pool. Mobility Grade: 4 – The location is level, lift to all floors.
£779
Returns 4.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £90 | Holiday Insurance: £30.50 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Discounts available for (NT) National Trust Members
Fri 12 – Mon 15 June 2020 Departs 10.00am
3 Nights Returns 5.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £75 | Holiday Insurance: £22 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Reductions available for (NT) National Trust & RHS Members
For Friendly Help and Advice Call Us on 01564 797000
£489
ENGLAND – SOUTH & SOUTH EAST
Bluebell Railway
© www.geograph.org.uk – Philip Halling
& Treasures by the Thames
65
& Tulips in Kent
Canterbury & Boulogne
Hever Castle
There is no better time to visit the Garden of England than in spring when everything is bursting to life with vibrant colours. With our special themed events to two of the region’s top locations, you are sure to see an array of colour that will fill the Kent countryside.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 Entrances to Hever Castle, Ightham Mote (NT) & Chartwell (NT) 8 Not included: All lunches
ENGLAND – SOUTH & SOUTH EAST
Holiday Itinerary
66
Monday We travel south to Kent, making a stop for lunch en-route, arriving at our hotel in the afternoon. Tuesday Our day commences with a visit to Tenterden, a charming town that nestles in the heart of the Kent Weald. Next, we continue to Hever Castle, where the stunning tulip display will be in full bloom. Head Gardener Neil Miller described the tulip display at Hever Castle as “a hidden gem” commenting that the south-east is renowned for tulip festivals, and the explosion of colour along Pergola Walk brings a carnival like atmosphere to the formality of the Italian Garden. Wednesday Today we visit Ightham Mote (NT), a romantic 14th century, moated manor house. Described by historian David Starkey as ‘one of the most beautiful and interesting of English country houses’, where you’ll discover swathes of bluebells throughout this marvelous 546-acre estate. The house is surrounded by peaceful gardens with an orchard, water features, lakes and woodland walks with unique views across the Kent countryside. Thursday After breakfast we visit the ancient city of Canterbury. Discover the beautifully preserved cathedral, the 13th century Greyfriars Chapel and Franciscan Gardens, and perhaps take a historic river tour – a popular way to experience the city – browse the wonderful independent shops along the King’s Mile or visit the award-winning Canterbury Tales. Friday Departing our hotel we make our way to Chartwell (NT), once family home of Sir Winston Churchill. The rooms remain as they were when he lived there, with pictures, books and personal mementoes evoking the career and interests of the famous statesmen. We then commence our journey homeward.
4 Nights From: £585 Boulogne
The county of Kent in south east England has played a vital role in Britain’s maritime history, and many fine relics from its defensive past can still be seen today. Discover the region’s fascinating heritage with included visits to the iconic Dover Castle and a day trip to France via Eurotunnel.
4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights Half Board 4 Outlined excursions 4 Entrance to
Dover Castle with tour of the Underground Hospital 4 Eurotunnel Crossing to Calais 4 Group Entrance to Canterbury Cathedral 8 Not Included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Monday We travel south, with suitable stops en-route, arriving in Folkestone during the afternoon with time to settle in before dinner. Tuesday We take a drive along the coast to Dover, home to those iconic Chilham white cliffs. Here we visit Dover Castle and take a tour around a fully furnished 12th century Royal Palace and enjoy a unique visitor experience in the Secret Wartime Tunnels. We then take a fascinating guided tour of the Underground Hospital. Following this we make our way to the Battle of Britain Memorial in Capel-le-Ferne, a poignant tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of those who served their country. Wednesday After breakfast we make our way to the Eurotunnel Terminal for our Channel crossing to France. Here we visit the lovely French town of Boulogne (Passports Required). Thursday Today we visit the historic city of Canterbury, pausing en-route in the lovely picture postcard village of Chilham, with its half-timbered houses. We continue to Canterbury, where we include group entry into the magnificent cathedral, after which there is free time to explore this historic city. Friday Departing the hotel after breakfast, we commence our journey homeward.
Your Holiday Hotel
Your Holiday Hotel
The Burlington Hotel, Folkestone
The Burlington Hotel, Folkestone
A stylish, Victorian hotel ideally situated near the main town centre of Folkestone and set within its own grounds overlooking the English Channel. Amenities include a traditional restaurant and two bars. Mobility Grade: 3 – Good access throughout with isolated steps. Lift available.
A stylish, Victorian hotel ideally situated near the main town centre of Folkestone and set within its own grounds overlooking the English Channel. Amenities include a traditional restaurant and two bars. Mobility Grade: 3 – Good access throughout with isolated steps. Lift available.
Mon 20 – Fri 24 April 2020 Departs 10.30am
/ Look What’s Included
© Flickr – grassrootsgroundswell
4 Nights From: £529
© Flickr – openroads.com
FOLKESTONE,
© Hever Castle Ltd
BLUEBELLS
4 Nights Returns 6.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £73 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Discounts available for (NT) National Trust Members
£529
Mon 26 – Fri 30 Oct 2020 Departs 10.00am
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£585
Returns 4.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £72 | Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
With our bond in place – Your money is safe
KENT CASTLES
TASTES & FLAVOURS
& Canterbury
of Kent
4 Nights From: £569
4 Nights From: £598 Shepherd Neame Tour
A wonderful holiday to the Garden of England – Kent, visiting Leeds & Dover Castles, Canterbury and Rochester. Holiday Itinerary
Kent, the Garden of England – a beautiful region of Oast houses, vineyards, orchards, hop-fields, secret villages, historic towns and rolling countryside.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Guided Tour of Canterbury Cathedral 4 Entrances to Leeds Castle & Dover Castle (Inc tour of underground tunnels Not Included: All lunches
© Flickr – Henry & Jane Rios
Day 1 We journey south arriving at our hotel in the afternoon for our 4-night stay. Day 2 We visit the lovely picture postcard village of Chilham. The village, with its many half-timbered houses, is situated on the former pilgrim’s route to Canterbury. Indeed, we continue to Canterbury, where we enjoy a guided tour of its magnificent cathedral followed by some free time to discover its maze of intriguing side Canterbury streets, which are rich with a variety of specialist shops. Day 3 Today we visit Leeds Castle – quite possibly the loveliest Castle in the World. The Castle has a history spanning 900 years and is set on two islands on the River Len. Discover its lavish interiors, craft café, shops, falconry & maze. This afternoon we visit Rochester with its stunning Cathedral, Castle and historic links to writer Charles Dickens with the Guildhall Museum alive with interactive Dickens exhibits, while Baggins Book Bazaar, stands out as one of England’s largest second-hand book shops. Day 4 We visit Dover Castle & the Secret Wartime Tunnels. Spectacularly situated above the famous white cliffs this magnificent castle has guarded our shores for 20 centuries. The Secret Wartime tunnels are Fascinating to explore as is the richly furnished Great Tower, where costumed actors introduce medieval life at King Henry II’s court. Day 5 Departing after breakfast we make our way homeward, arriving back during the late afternoon.
Your Holiday Hotel
Holiday Itinerary
4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Hush Heath Estate Vineyard Tour, tasting & lunch 4 Winterdale Cheese Farm Tour, tasting & Kent Cream Tea 4 Shepherd Neame Brewery ‘Behind the Scenes’ tour, tasting & Hop Picker’s Afternoon Tea 8 Not Included: All other lunches
Thursday We journey south arriving at our hotel in the afternoon for our 4-night stay. Friday We head to Hush Heath Vineyards. Our visit includes a guided tour of the estate, with tasting and a ploughman’s lunch at the Visitors Centre. From here we visit the Winterdale Cheese Farm for a guided tour of the dairy and cave, followed by cheese tasting and a cream tea. Saturday We begin with a ride to historic Faversham. Nestling between the rural gently sloping Downs and the austere North Kent marshes, Faversham is one of southern England’s most charming towns. It now has over 475 listed buildings and a broad selection of independent shops. We have time for lunch here before we leave for our afternoon visit to the Shepherd Neame Brewery for a guided ‘behind the scenes’ tour. Afterwards we round off the visit with Hop Pickers Afternoon Tea. (Cautionary Note: Shepherd Neame Brewery is an industrial site and anyone entering the brewery must be wearing the appropriate footwear – flip flops, sandals or open toe shoes will not be permitted) Sunday This morning we head for the land of mysterious marshes and smugglers. First, we come to New Romney. A Cinque Port since 1155, the Great Storm of 1287 changed the course of the River Rother and made New Romney an inland town. Driving via Lydd, we view All Saints Church – The ‘Cathedral of the Marsh’, before reaching ‘The Jewel of the Weald’ – Tenterden, with its fine architecture and attractive tree-lined high street that features many independent, shops, cafes and pubs among its historic buildings – It’s the perfect place to pick up a reminder of your visit to Kent or to find gifts for friends and family. Monday After breakfast we leave and begin our journey home. Your Holiday Hotel
Best Western Abbots Barton, Canterbury
Bridgewood Manor, Rochester
The 3-star Best Western Abbots Barton Hotel is a Gothic-style building built in the 1830s. This picturesque hotel, set within two acres of beautiful gardens, is just a brief 10-minute walk from the historic town of Canterbury, ideally located to explore Canterbury’s many attractions. Mobility Grade: 3 – Bedrooms are on three floors. A lift serves most rooms.
Wed 3 – Sun 7 June 2020
4 Nights
£579
Sun 16 – Thu 20 Aug 2020
4 Nights
£569
Departs 10.00am
/ Look What’s Included
Returns 5.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £40 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
A charming 4-star hotel in Rochester, Bridgewood Manor is the perfect destination for visitors who wish to explore scenic Kent. Restaurant, bar/lounge, outdoor patio area, leisure club & spa with indoor swimming pool. Mobility Grade: 4 – Level entrance, easy access throughout. Lift to all floors, with 2 purpose built disabled rooms on the ground floor.
Thu 4 – Mon 8 June 2020 Departs 10.00am
4 Nights Returns 4.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £100 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Sightseeing Excursions are Included in the Price – On All Holidays!
£598
ENGLAND – SOUTH & SOUTH EAST
Leeds Castle
67
BEAUTIFUL BERKSHIRE
ROYAL SANDRINGHAM
& Secrets of Surrey & Oxon
& English Shires
NEW TOUR 4 Nights From: £539 Rutland Water
We are delighted to introduce this tour with an excellent selection of attractions is featured, ranging from a relaxing river cruise, to a Royal Borough to a stunning garden and a stately home. There really is something for all on this tour.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Entrance to Blenheim Palace 4 HRHS Garden Wisley 4 Polesden Lacey 4 Henley on Thames River Cruise 8 Not Included: All lunches
ENGLAND – SOUTH & EASTERN
Holiday Itinerary
68
Thursday Departing Henley we travel to exquisite Blenheim Palace. Home to the 12th Duke of Marlborough and birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting a diverse history. Enter the Palace and discover the gilded State Rooms and priceless collections set against striking stonework, and explore beautiful parkland, sweeping lawns, formal gardens and the magnificent Lake. After our visit we continue our hotel for our 4-night stay. Friday We head for the picturesque Thames-side town of Kingston-uponThames with its riverside setting. We have some time at leisure before we depart for the splendid Royal Horticultural Society Garden at Wisley. The garden here is a place full of inspiration, Wisley offers ideas galore, with Wild Gardens, Glasshouse, Model Gardens, Fruit Field, Arboretum and spectacular floral displays. Saturday Today we travel through the rolling Surrey countryside to the county town of Guildford, with its magnificent Cathedral and cobbled high street. From here, we visit stunning Polesden Lacey, near Dorking. The late Queen Mother remarked ‘This is a nice house….’ on her honeymoon at Polesden Lacey. This country house with glorious views across the Surrey Hills, the glittering interior, designed to impress Royalty the world over houses art from the Dutch Masters and sparkling Faberge and more. The gardens offer something for everyone. Sunday This morning we have a short drive taking in some of the beautiful Berkshire countryside as we head for Henley-on-Thames, famous for its annual regatta. We have a short time to explore the town before we board our boat for our 1-hour river cruise along the Thames. Afterwards, we head to Royal Windsor where you can enjoy lunch, visit the famous Windsor Castle or one of its many independent stores or quaint streets. Monday After a leisurely breakfast we head home, pausing en-route in Oxford – The city of ‘Dreaming Spires’ with its University Colleges, impressive Ashmolean Museum and great shopping.
This Easter tour is simply packed with wonderful attractions from start to finish. We visit Sandringham House, the much-loved country retreat of Her Majesty the Queen. We also include visits to Oakham, Barnsdale Gardens and Rockingham Castle whilst enjoying a Rutland Water Cruise and a Heritage train ride on the Nene Valley Railway.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 3 nights half board 4 Hotel entertainment on one evening 4 Barnsdale Gardens & Rutland Water Cruise 4 Royal
Sandringham House & Grounds
4 Nene Valley Railway 4 Rockingham Castle 8 Not included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Friday We journey to Oakham, county town of Rutland, with its stylish gift shops and boutiques. Later we visit the famous Barnsdale Gardens, familiar to many TV viewers as home to the late Gardeners World presenter Geoff Hamilton. Our day continues with a relaxing cruise on the Rutland Belle enjoying the delights of Rutland Water, before checking in to our hotel for our 3-night stay. Saturday Norfolk is our destination today as we head east to Royal Sandringham House & Grounds, Rockingham Castle the Norfolk retreat of Her Majesty the Queen. Here, we have time to explore, obtain lunch before returning to our hotel during the afternoon. Sunday Today’s excursion takes us first for a ride on the Nene Valley Railway. Afterwards, we head for Peterborough where we have time to look around the city with its magnificent Cathedral. This afternoon, we visit the impressive Rockingham Castle – Built by William the Conqueror, Rockingham, has been a Royal Fortress and much-loved family home for 450 years. Surrounded by 12 acres of gardens, the Castle commands views of five counties. Monday Departing our hotel we return home in the early afternoon.
Your Holiday Hotel
Your Holiday Hotel
Best Western Rockingham Forest Hotel
Hilton Hotel, Bracknell Situated on the outskirts of Bracknell, the Hilton Hotel features a modern lounge and bar area and the Larder Restaurant, plus a leisure club with indoor swimming pool, sauna, hot tub, a gym and beauty rooms. Mobility Grade: 4 – Level entrance, easy access throughout. Lift to all floors.
Pleasantly situated in a rural setting in the pretty Northamptonshire village of Rockingham, just a short distance from Rockingham Castle. Restaurant and bar/lounge. Mobility Grade: 3 – The locality is generally level with good access throughout public areas. No lift, but rooms are on the ground and first floor only.
Thu 30 Jul – Mon 3 Aug 2020
EASTER Fri 10 – Mon 13 April 2020
Departs 10.00am
4 Nights Returns 4.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £120 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Discounts Available for RHS Members
£539
Departs 9.00am
3 Nights Returns 3.30pm
Supplements Single Room £15 | Holiday Insurance: £22 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Travel with Johnsons – Travel with Friends
£429
© www.geograph.org.uk – Richard Humphrey
Polesden Lacey
3 Nights From: £429
SUMMERTIME IN SUFFOLK
GREAT YARMOUTH
at Bury St Edmunds
& The Norfolk Broads
Ickworth House
Our new tour to Suffolk features the fantastic attractions of Ickworth House, Palace House in Newmarket, the Dad’s Army Museum in Thetford and Bressingham Steam & Gardens, as well as visits to the historic town of Lavenham. Holiday Itinerary
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Entrance & Guided tour of Ickworth House 4 Entrance & Guided tour of the National Heritage Centre for Horseracing & Sporting Art 4 Dad’s Army Museum with tea/coffee & biscuits 4 Entrance to Bressingham Steam & Gardens 8 Not included: All lunches
Monday Travelling outward via the Cathedral City of Ely, we reach our hotel for our 4-night stay. Tuesday This morning, we visit Suffolk’s very own Italianate palace, Ickworth House, famous for its classical Rotunda which forms the centrepiece of the estate. We begin our visit with a 45-minute guided tour of the house State Rooms. Designed to impress, the house is set in an ancient deer park, with formal gardens, pleasure grounds, rolling Suffolk landscape and a beautiful Italianate garden. In the afternoon, we enjoy free time in Lavenham, the finest medieval village in England. Wednesday We begin our day with a visit to the National Heritage Centre for Horseracing and Sporting Art at Palace House in Newmarket. We enjoy a 90-minute guided tour before we have the chance to see former racehorses training in the flagship yard of Retraining of Horses. With the National Horse Racing Museum and British sporting art galleries also on site, there is plenty to enjoy. From here, we head to Newmarket where we enjoy free time for lunch before returning to Bury St Edmunds. Thursday Our day begins with a visit to the Dad’s Army Museum in Thetford (Walmington-on-Sea) where the series was filmed. We enjoy an entertaining and nostalgic 45-minute guided mini location tour of “Walmington-on-Sea”, where we take in the many filming locations used, the bronze statue of Captain Mainwaring and Jones’s butcher’s van before ending with a visit to the museum which includes tea/coffee and biscuits in the Marigold Tea Room. Free time for lunch in Thetford before visiting Bressingham Steam & Gardens, where we have time to view the exhibitions and enjoy the unique gardens. Friday After breakfast, we begin our journey home.
6 Nights From: £779 Norfolk Broads
Great Yarmouth is Norfolk’s biggest and most popular holiday resort with its Golden Mile, Pleasure Beach and Summer shows! Great Yarmouth is a traditional seaside resort with a beautiful promenade.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 6 nights Half Board 4 3 nights Hotel Entertainment 4 Broads Cruise 4 Bressingham Gardens & Steam Museum 4 Somerleyton Hall 8 Not Included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Sunday Travelling to East Anglia, we make a stop for lunch in Ely before arriving at our hotel during the afternoon. Monday A free day to explore and discover the delights of Great Yarmouth. Tuesday We begin the day with a visit to Wroxham and the charming Norfolk Broads where we enjoy a cruise around the picturesque Broads. In the afternoon we head to Norwich, where a visit to the Cathedral is a must, also cobbled Elm Hill and the Castle Mall shopping complex. Wednesday We visit the timeless and delightful resort of Southwold, little changed since Victorian times. In the Bressingham Gardens afternoon, we head inland to Diss to Bressingham Gardens and Steam Museum – the gardens are renowned the world over for their excellence. Thursday We drive to Oulton Broad and Lowestoft, with a chance to explore and obtain lunch before we make our way to Somerleyton Hall – an early Victorian Mansion with Jacobean origins set in a wooded park with 12 acres of lovely gardens including a maze, tearoom and gift shop. Friday Our first visit today is North Walsham, where it is market day, and we have the chance to explore and maybe enjoy a drink and bite to eat before we visit the coastal resort of Cromer for a leisurely afternoon by the sea. Saturday Departing after breakfast we return homeward, arriving in the mid-afternoon.
Your Holiday Hotel Your Holiday Hotel
Best Western Priory Hotel, Bury St Edmunds
Burlington Palm Court Hotel, Great Yarmouth
Priory Hotel is an 18th century Grade II listed building set in landscaped grounds on the outskirts of town. The 54 attractively decorated, tastefully furnished and thoughtfully equipped bedrooms are split between the main house and garden wings, which have their own sun terraces. Garden Room Restaurant, Edmund Lounge & Terrace Bar. Mobility Grade: 3 – The locality is reasonably flat. This is a listed building with no lift but ground floor rooms available.
Mon 17 – Fri 21 Aug 2020 Departs 10.00am
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£599
Returns 3.00pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Doubles for Sole Use: £95 | Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
This family owned hotel stands in a quiet location on Great Yarmouth’s seafront directly overlooking the sea. Restaurant, 2 bars and heated indoor swimming pool. Mobility Grade: 3 – Hotel: The hotel originally was 3 houses that have been sympathetically joined together over the years. Rooms do vary in size and there are unavoidable steps to some floors, although the hotel has a lift. Locality: The hotel commands a level location.
Sun 5 – Sat 11 July 2020 Departs 10.30am
6 Nights Returns 4.30pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £30.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
For Friendly Help and Advice Call Us on 01564 797000
£779
ENGLAND – SOUTH & EASTERN
4 Nights From: £599
© Flickr – Tony Hisgett
NEW TOUR
69
CONCORDE,
DISCOVERING LINCOLNSHIRE
4 Nights From: £535 Imperial War Museum Duxford
Get up close and personal with Concorde – arguably the most iconic aircraft to have emerged from the latter half of the 20th century. This fabulous ‘highflying’ tour will appeal to a wide range of passengers, so strap yourself in for an enigmatic trip to the Imperial War Museum at RAF Duxford, Bletchley Park and a private guided tour of Rockingham Castle – we’ve cracked the code for a fantastic five days!
© Flickr – Marc Barrot
Castles & Code Breakers
4 Door to Door Service 4 Our Own Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 The Imperial War Museum, Duxford 4 Entrance & Guided Visit to Rockingham Castle 4 Entrance to Bletchley Park 8 Not included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary (For departures on 13 Apr & 14 Sep)
ENGLAND – SOUTH & EASTERN 70
© Flickr – Ivan Lian
Holiday Itinerary
The Huntingdon Marriott Hotel, Huntingdon This modern, stylish hotel is located on the outskirts of Huntingdon, with excellent access to surrounding routes. Each of the 150 well decorated bedrooms are comfortable and traditional in style. The hotel has a range of modern facilities throughout, including a spacious, informal restaurant, a comfortable bar, indoor swimming pool, sauna, spa bath and gym. Mobility Grade: 4 – The locality is generally level with good accessibility throughout. Lift access to floors. Please note this hotel does not currently have walk-in showers.
Departs 10.30am
4 Nights
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our Own Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 Barnsdale Gardens 4 Guided coach tour of
Lincoln & Lincoln Cathedral guided tour 4 Belton House (NT) (13 Apr & 14 Sep Only) 4 Grimsthorpe Castle Park & Gardens (13 Apr & 14 Sep Only) Kedleston Hall (NT) (27 Apr Only) 8 Not included: All lunches
Monday En-route to our hotel we visit Barnsdale Gardens, home to 38 individual gardens created by the late Geoff Hamilton, former presenter of the BBC’s ‘Gardeners World’. Tuesday Today we drive to the historic City of Lincoln where we enjoy a guided tour of the city on the coach followed by a guided tour of the Cathedral. The old town is a labyrinth of little alleyways and interesting shops to explore – there are plenty of tea rooms to keep you going. Wednesday We drive to Spalding where we visit Springfields Garden Centre with time to explore and have lunch. We continue to Belton House (NT) – the perfect English country house, set in its own deer park., which featured in BBC’s TV adaptation of Pride & Prejudice. Thursday This morning we make our way to Stamford for free time in this historic town. In the afternoon we continue to Grimsthorpe Castle Park & Gardens. Set amidst Lincolnshire rolling countryside, surrounded by gardens, extensive woodland and a 50-acre lake, we can enjoy the chance to soak up the atmosphere in a Castle filled with fine furniture and paintings Friday Homeward Bound
Holiday Itinerary (For our Lincolnshire Spring Special departing on 27 Apr – Please see P58 of our Autumn/Winter/Spring brochure for further details)
Mon Outward via Kedleston Hall (NT). Tue Stamford & Barnsdale Gardens. Wed Skegness. Thu Guided tour of Lincoln & Lincoln Cathedral. Fri Return via Melton Mowbray. Your Holiday Hotel Olde Barn Hotel, Grantham
Set in luscious Lincolnshire countryside this award-winning hotel successfully combines rustic charm with modern amenities. Restaurant, bar, lounge. Spa/Wellness centre including Jacuzzi, whirlpool & gymnasium. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality: Generally, level. Hotel: Level with occasional steps to public areas. Bedrooms are on 3 floors all served by a lift.
Your Holiday Hotel
Thu 1 – Mon 5 Oct 2020
Lincoln Cathedral
A delightful tour visiting some of the most scenic and interesting areas that Lincolnshire has to offer, including Britain’s best small city bursting with heritage, culture and creativity
/ Look What’s Included
Thursday We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner. Friday Our destination this morning is the Imperial War Museum Duxford, Britain’s best-preserved WW2 airfield. Its story reflects the landmark Bletchley Park achievements made in aviation history and it incorporates a series of museums and exhibitions such as the 1940s Operations Room, The American Air Museum, The Battle of Britain Exhibition Land Warfare to name but a few. Be sure to discover “AirSpace”, featuring 30 iconic aircraft – including the Supermarine Spitfire and Concorde itself! We spend the afternoon at leisure in Cambridge. Saturday Today, we enjoy a fascinating private guided tour of Rockingham Castle, a castle with the rare status of having been continuously occupied for nearly 1,000 years and by just one family since being relinquished as a royal castle. On arrival we enjoy tea and coffee, followed by our tour, with time afterwards to explore the gardens, grounds, church and ice house at leisure. Sunday This morning, we make our way to Bletchley Park where Alan Turing and his colleagues helped crack Germany’s Enigma Code during World War II. We uncover Bletchley Park’s remarkable story by visiting the unglamorous, functional Codebreaking Huts and Blocks. Monday After breakfast, we make our way home.
4 Nights From: £499
£535
Returns 4.00pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £100 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
EASTER Mon 13 – Fri 17 April 2020
Singles Galore
Spring Special Mon 27 Apr – Fri 1 May 2020 Mon 14 – Fri 18 Sep 2020
Singles Galore
4 Nights
£499
4 Nights
£529
4 Nights
£534
Departs 11.00am (Apr 13) 10.30am (Apr 27) 10.30am (Sep) Returns 3.30pm (Apr 13) 4.00pm (Apr 27) 3.00pm (Sep) Supplements Single Room: £40 (13 Apr & 14 Sep) £Nil (27 Apr) | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Discounts Available for (NT) National Trust Members
We include our own Helpful & Attentive Couriers on all our UK Holidays
WATERWAYS OF CHESHIRE
CHARMING CHESTER,
Anderton Boat Lift
We discover the waterways of Cheshire with a number of wonderful scenic cruises. This tour offers a gentle way to explore this fascinating region. Holiday Itinerary
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our Own Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Dorothy Clive Gardens 4 The National Waterways Museum with cruise 4 Chester & River Dee cruise 4 Anderton Boat Lift/cruise 4 Trentham Gardens 8 Not included: All lunches
© Flickr – Dunnock_D
Monday Driving north we pause at the charming Dorothy Clive Gardens where we can enjoy plants throughout the seasons, delightful views and tasty homemade food. A place to relax and unwind before we continue to our hotel for our 4-night stay. Tuesday We make the short journey to Ellesmere Port and the National Waterways Museum. Tea/Coffee and biscuits are served upon our arrival followed by a guided tour of the museum. We then enjoy a 30-minute cruise on the Shropshire Union Canal. Later we continue to Port Sunlight for a guided tour. Port Chester Sunlight is a unique and beautiful 19th century garden village created solely for the Sunlight Soap factory workers. Step inside Port Sunlight Museum and meet the village’s creator, ‘Soap King’ William Hesketh Lever and discover his vision for the village and its residents. Wednesday Today we visit historic Chester where we include a tranquil 30-minute cruise along the River Dee with commentary outlining all the interesting facts about Chester’s rich history. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore this wonderful walled city. Thursday We pay a visit to Nantwich, situated on the banks of the River Weaver. This medieval market town is famous for the black and white timbered buildings around the town. This afternoon we travel to Anderton for a cruise including the famous boat lift, built in 1875 to provide a 50ft vertical link between the River Weaver and the Trent and Mersey Canal. Friday Returning via Trentham Gardens, we arrive home during the afternoon.
NEW TOUR
4 Nights From: £464
Llandudno
Awash with history and heritage and famous for its unforgettable half-timbered buildings, Chester has a gentle medieval air. From the cobbled paths to the cathedral spire, Chester offers buildings of every era, each carefully restored to retain the olde-world backdrop to modern day city life.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our Own Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 British Ironwork Centre & Sculpture Park 4 Chester Open-top ‘Hop onHop off Bus Ticket 8 Not included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Sunday We travel via the British Ironwork Centre and Sculpture Park at Oswestry – a family owned company, long dedicated to, and passionate about the preservation and creation of quality metal work, in all its forms. We then continue to our hotel Liverpool for our 4 -night stay. Monday A day at leisure to soak up the history and culture of this incredible medieval city, and make sure you see as much of it as you can we have included tickets for the city sightseeing ‘Hop-on, Hop Off’ open-top, double-deck buses where you’ll discover all the things to do in Chester, including the famous City Walls, the Cathedral, and the Roman Amphitheatre.. Tuesday A full day excursion to the city of Liverpool where you can explore the many museums, art galleries and shops in the city centre. The city has many famous landmarks and some of the most wonderful architecture to be found in any English city including the imposing Cathedral where you can enjoy the 360° views of Liverpool from its rooftop. The Albert Dock is not to be missed with attractions such as The Beatles Story, Tate Liverpool Art Gallery, The Merseyside Maritime Museum and International Slavery Museum. Plenty to keep you busy for the day! Wednesday Today we travel to the beautiful region in North Wales and enjoy a day in the seaside resort of Llandudno. Enjoy a walk along the promenade and visit some of the towns many attractions including the Great Orme with its cable hauled tramway, the impressive pier built by the Victorians and browse the many local shops and restaurants. Thursday Breakfast, and then sadly it’s homeward bound.
Your Holiday Hotel Best Western Forest Hills, Frodsham, Cheshire
Your Holiday Hotel Hallmark – Queen Hotel, Chester
Stunning panoramic views across the Cheshire plains and the Mersey Estuary await all who visit the Forest Hills Hotel. Set amidst beautiful Cheshire countryside, this is the perfect base for us to explore the surrounding areas. All rooms are modern and comfortable and offer tea making facilities, safe, TV, telephone and hairdryer. Hotel facilities include a swimming pool and gymnasium. Mobility Grade: 4 – Level access throughout. Although there is no lift rooms are on ground & first floor only.
Located within walking distance of the city centre. All bedrooms are en-suite and are equipped with TV, Wi-Fi, iron and ironing board, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar & delightful Italian gardens. Mobility Grade: 4 – Situated in the heart of Chester, good easy access throughout with a few isolated steps. Lift to all floors.
Mon 21 – Fri 25 Sept 2020
Sun 26 – Thu 30 July 2020
Departs 11.30am
4 Nights Returns 4.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £60 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
£549
Departs 11.00am
4 Nights Returns 3.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £120 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
We include a No Surcharge Guarantee on all Coach Holidays
£464
ENGLAND – NORTH WEST
4 Nights From: £549
© Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net)
Liverpool & Llandudno
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CHESHIRE’S HISTORIC HOUSES
RED ROSE COUNTRY
& Heritage Trails of the North West
Lancashire & the Ribble Valley
Manchester Ship Canal
We are pleased to introduce this new tour based at Salford Quays, part of Manchester’s regeneration, with shopping malls, museums and more. The highlight of the week is the cruise along the ship canal to Liverpool.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our Own Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Arley Hall & Gardens 4 Quarry Bank Mill (NT) & Tatton Park (NT) 4 Manchester Ship Canal Cruise 4 Dunham Massey (NT 8 Not included: All lunches
Monday Travelling north we include a visit to Arley Hall & Gardens, one of the most fascinating stately homes in the North West with its elaborate interior décor. The Hall proudly shows off its Victorian Jacobean styling. The gardens are best known for its herbaceous border, the first of its kind planted in Britain. From here, we make the short journey to our hotel for our 4-night stay. Tuesday We visit Quarry Bank Mill (NT), one of Britain’s greatest industrial heritage sites, depicting life in the era of the cotton mill. Marvel at Europe’s most powerful working waterwheel. Later, we continue to historic Tatton Park (NT), an opulent early 19th century house which sits amidst a landscaped deer park. It contains some wonderful examples of fine furniture and impressive works of art. Wednesday We join the Mersey Ferries ship for a fascinating 6 hours leisurely cruise the entire length of the Manchester Ship Canal. The cruise takes in spectacular scenery leaving passengers with an awe-inspiring sense of how its construction shaped forever the City of Manchester and the North West of England. The 35-mile cruise includes live commentary and provides a revealing insight into the history of one of Britain’s most important waterways. Refreshments & snacks are available on board. Thursday A day at leisure to discover ‘The Quays’ Manchester’s unique waterfront destination, Shopping, sport, art, drama, history and truly worldclass architecture – you name it and you’ll find it here. Exciting examples include Imperial War Museum North and The Lowry. The Quays a mecca for the discerning shopper with big-name brand shops and stores offering discount prices – up to 70 per cent lower than the high street – all year round Friday Departing our hotel we visit Dunham Massey (NT) – A wonderful Georgian House & magnificent Deer Park, before returning homewards in the afternoon.
ENGLAND – NORTH WEST
Midland Hotel Afternoon Tea
This holiday truly explores some of the treasures of Lancashire. As well as an excellent hotel the tour also includes an abundance of inclusions and entrances which makes it a great value break. Holiday Itinerary
Holiday Itinerary
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4 Nights From: £515
Your Holiday Hotel
4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 ‘Classic
Concorde Tour at Manchester Airport’s Runway Visitor Park 4 Samlesbury Hall 4 Midland Hotel Afternoon Tea 4 Chocolate House 4 Canal cruise with afternoon tea 8 Not Included: All lunches
Monday Travelling north we visit the Runway Visitor Park at Manchester Airport. Home to five iconic aircraft, including the legendary Concorde G-BOAC. A ‘Classic Concorde tour’ is included where you’ll have the chance to discover this former icon Samlesbury Hall of the skies. Later, we continue to our hotel where we enjoy a 4-night stay. Tuesday Our first visit today is to the Lancashire coastal gem Lytham St. Annes with its miles of unspoilt sandy beaches and beautifully restored Victorian Pier. Later, we visit Samlesbury Hall – A stunning stately home which has retained its original black and white exterior. With lots to discover here the house is steeped in a fascinating history, where the past meets the present. Wednesday This morning we drive to Lancaster and Morecambe. In Morecambe on the seafront is the stunning Midland Hotel. After being empty for many years this hotel has now been beautifully restored to its former glory. We include today ‘The Midland Afternoon Tea’, a mouth-watering selection of sandwiches, scones and much, much more. Later we have a little free time before we head back to our welcoming hotel. Thursday This morning we have a treat as we visit the Chocolate House, near Blackburn, to learn the art of producing handmade delicacies, with refreshments and samples included. From here we head for our lunch stop – the famous ‘Ossie Mills’ complex. This afternoon we have a short drive to Riley Green Marina. Here we join the boat for a relaxing and peaceful cruise along the canal, with afternoon tea served on the way. Friday Homeward Bound.
Your Holiday Hotel Copthorne Hotel, Salford Quays
Foxfields Country Hotel & Suites. Billington, Ribble Valley
The Copthorne Hotel overlooks the waterfront offering stunning views out onto Salford Quays. Hotel facilities include 2 bars and restaurant. Bedrooms are all en-suite and all have satellite television and tea & coffee making facilities. Mobility Grade: 5 – Level access throughout. Lift to all floors.
Mon 17 – Fri 21 Aug 2020 Departs 10.00am
/ Look What’s Included
4 Nights Returns 5.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £120 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Reductions for (NT) National Trust Members available
£598
The 3-star Foxfields Country Hotel is situated near the village of Billington in the beautiful Ribble Valley. Leisure club facilities include a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna and gym. Restaurant and lounge/bar. Mobility Grade: 3 – The locality & hotel are generally on the level. No lift but rooms are on ground & first floor only.
Mon 30 Mar – Fri 3 Apr 2020 Departs 9.00am
4 Nights Returns 4.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £Nil | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
For 2020 choose from 120 Different Holiday locations
£515
© English Lakes Hotels Ltd
4 Nights From: £598
© Flickr – Andrew
NEW TOUR
THE RELAXING RIBBLE VALLEY
TRADITIONAL LANCASHIRE
On this new tour we feature an interesting trip to Lancashire and the Ribble Valley for a weekend of relaxing activities in a tranquil setting. Here, you’ll enjoy the countryside by rail, as well as the towns which make up the region.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our Own Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 3 nights half board 4 2-course Sunday lunch 4 Entry to Mrs Dowson’s Dairy Farm 4 Entry to Ribble Steam Railway 8 Not included: All other lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Friday We journey to the North West and to our hotel in Leyland for our 3-night stay Saturday We start today with a leisurely drive to Clitheroe, here you will find a beautiful town where its Saturday Market will be in full swing when you arrive! You could also visit Clitheroe Castle or just enjoy the relaxing town centre with its traditional styling and independent shops. We continue to the city of Lancaster where you will be able to obtain lunch and enjoy the city for the remainder of the day. You could visit the Lancaster City Museum or maybe Lancaster Castle to learn of the city’s heritage. Perhaps enjoy some retail therapy to Market Gate Shopping Centre or Lancaster’s Saturday Charter Market. Sunday This morning we visit Mrs Dowsons Farm, a working dairy farm in the heart of Lancashire. You’ll be able to explore the farm where the ice cream is made, meet the cows that make the milk and gives it the creamy taste and sample the flavours made on-site. Afterwards, we return to our hotel where we will enjoy a 2 Course Sunday Roast for Lunch. Later, we then travel to the Ribble Steam Railway for the remainder of this afternoon to enjoy the steam and sights of Preston. Here you will be able to enjoy unlimited train rides along the three-mile return trip which gives interesting views of the city of Preston. There is also an indoor miniature railway, museum and workshop where you might see locomotives being restored. Monday Departing our hotel we head to the coast for time at leisure in the classic seaside resort of Southport. We continue via Crosby Beach viewing the spectacular ‘Another Place’ sculptures by Antony Gormley – 100 cast iron, lifesize figures spreading out along 3-kilometres of the foreshore. We return home during the afternoon. Your Holiday Hotel
Leighton Hall
Enjoy exploring the highlights of Lancashire and uncover its wonderful local heritage. Holiday Itinerary
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our Own Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 Guided tour of Leighton Hall with afternoon tea 4 Train ride on the East Lancs Railway 4 Rochdale Pioneers Museum 4 The Chocolate House 4 Guided tour of Samlesbury Hall 8 Not included: All lunches
Thursday We journey to the North West and to our hotel in Leyland for our 4-night stay. Friday Today we travel north to explore the ancient city of Lancaster. Visit the castle and museums to uncover ancient stories, take a stroll to St George’s Quay, wander around the quirky boutiques and independent galleries. After time for lunch we continue north to Carnforth and Leighton Hall, the ancestral home of the renowned Gillow furniture family. We enjoy a tour and the guides will share the history of the hall with you. Chocolate House Our visit ends with afternoon tea. Saturday We make our way to Rawtenstall where we join the East Lancashire Railway and enjoy a ride along the Irwell Valley through pleasant countryside to Bury. There is time to look around and obtain a drink and bite to eat before our afternoon visit to Rochdale. It was here in 1844 that the Rochdale Pioneers started the Co-op movement, still of course going strong today. We visit the museum in Toad Lane and discover how the movement grew over the years. Sunday A short ride from the hotel brings us to the Chocolate House in Blackburn. We enjoy a chocolate making demonstration, along with refreshments and samples to tantalize your taste buds. In the afternoon we visit historic Samlesbury Hall, a fabulous half-timbered black and white medieval house built in 1325 as a family home. A guided tour brings history to life and tells tales of intrigue and witchcraft through the centuries. Monday Leaving our hotel this morning we return home. Your Holiday Hotel Hallmark Premier Leyland Hotel, Leyland
Hallmark Premier Leyland Hotel, Leyland Part of the Feathers Group and one of their flagship hotels. This modern hotel has many unique touches such as chaise longues and oversized chairs. The public areas feature art work by local artists and the Four Seasons restaurant is modern with a great atmosphere. Mobility Grade: 3 – The locality is generally level with good accessibility throughout. There is no lift, but ground floor rooms are available.
Part of the Feathers Group and one of their flagship hotels. This modern hotel has many unique touches such as chaise longues and oversized chairs. The public areas feature art work by local artists and the Four Seasons restaurant is modern with a great atmosphere. Mobility Grade: 3 – The locality is generally level with good accessibility throughout. There is no lift, but ground floor rooms are available.
Fri 26 – Mon 29 June 2020
Thu 3 – Mon 7 Sept 2020
Departs 10.30am
3 Nights Returns 5.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £45 | Holiday Insurance: £22 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
£434
© Visit Lancashire
Ribble Steam Railway
4 Nights From: £549
Departs 10.00am
4 Nights Returns 3.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £60 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Call 01564 797000 or visit www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk
£549
ENGLAND – NORTH WEST
3 Nights From: £434
© Flickr – 70023venus2009
NEW TOUR
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RELAXED LAKE DISTRICT At the Skiddaw Hotel
4 Nights From: £549 Ullswater Lake
For sheer splendour and tranquil beauty, few places in England can measure up to the Lake District landscapes, as breathtaking as any you’ll find in Switzerland or the French Alps with a mix of high craggy mountains, undulating hillsides and of course some of the largest and most beautiful natural lakes to be found anywhere. With dramatic scenery showcasing the stunning lakes and the soaring peaks of England’s tallest mountains, charismatic market towns and villages plus a wealth of history and heritage, the Lake District region can never be understated and remains one of the most unspoilt holiday destinations in the country.
ENGLAND – NORTH WEST
Holiday Itinerary (Tours May – Oct)
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Day 1 Relax on board as we journey north to our included lunch stop before arriving in Keswick for our 4-night stay. Day 2 Enjoy a full day scenic tour travelling via Glenridding, where we board Ullswater Steamers for a cruise on beautiful Ullswater lake before continuing over the Kirkstone Pass – the highest road in the Lake District to Ambleside. We return to our hotel via the charming village of Grasmere. Day 3 This morning we drive to Lake Bassenthwaite, with a tour and tasting at the highly acclaimed Lakes Distillery, producers of world class English whisky, gin and vodka. Free time in the afternoon to explore Keswick. Day 4 Today we visit award winning Holker Hall, situated only a short distance from Grange-over-Sands and the expanse of Morecambe Bay. Holker Hall is set in exceptionally beautiful countryside with gardens that merge into parkland framed by the Lakeland Hills. Holker Hall is the home of Lord and Lady Cavendish and is one of the best loved stately homes in Britain. Day 5 We return home after breakfast with an included lunch en-route.
Your Holiday Hotel
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE The Skiddaw Hotel, Keswick
This popular hotel enjoys an excellent location in the market square of the lovely town of Keswick. Cocktail bar and conservatory, stylish restaurant and pleasant lounge. Mobility Grade: 4 – Town: Generally level. Hotel: Level location. Lift to all floors.
Springtime in the Lakes Itinerary (March Tour)
Sunday Travel via Kendal to our hotel for our 4-night stay Monday An excursion via Grasmere to the house of Wordsworth – Rydal Mount & Gardens Tuesday Today we visit Wordsworth’s House in Cockermouth with free time afterwards in Keswick Wednesday An excursion to Bownesson-Windermere. Thursday Homeward bound. (Please note lunches on the first and last day is not included on this tour)
/ Look What’s Included (Tours May – Oct) 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Lunches on first & last days 4 Ullswater Cruise 4 Lakes Distillery 4 Holker Hall 8 Not included: All other lunches (March Tour) 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Entrances to Rydal Mount & Wordsworth’s House at Cockermouth 8 Not included: All lunches
Holker Hall
Sun 29 Mar – Thu 2 Apr 2020
Singles Galore
4 Nights
£549
Mon 25 – Fri 29 May 2020
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£624
Sun 5 – Thu 9 July 2020
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£634
Sun 23 – Thu 27 Aug 2020
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£624
Sun 11 – Thu 15 Oct 2020
Relaxed Traveller Singles Galore
4 Nights
£624
Departs 8.00am (Mar) 10.00am (May/Oct) 8.30am (Jul/Aug) Returns 5.00pm (Mar/May) 6.00pm (Jul/Aug/Oct) Supplements Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Over 250 Fantastic Holidays for you to choose from
QUINTESSENTIAL CUMBRIA
& The Southern Lakes
4 Nights From: £589
4 Nights From: £559
Keswick
Hadrian’s Wall
Wordsworth called Lakeland, / Look What’s Included “the loveliest spot that man hath 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our Own ever found”, and few who have Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra visited the area would disagree. Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 Distillery tour The heart of the Lake District & tasting 4 Entrance to Dove Cottage National Park has a grandeur all & Wordsworth Museum 4 Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway Journey of its own, with massive crags 4 Cruise on Lake Windermere and ridges, towering fells and 4 Cruise on Ullswater 8 Not deep green valleys in its included: All lunches labyrinths of lakes and rivers. Kendal is often referred to as the Gateway to the Lakes and is the oldest and most important market town in the county.
This tour takes us through the Cumbrian countryside and through the Pennines this summer to quaint towns, beautiful landscapes and interesting visits around Cumbria.
Holiday Itinerary
Monday We depart Henley and travel north to our hotel, stopping en-route for lunch and refreshment stops. Tuesday After breakfast enjoy a scenic drive past Lake Windermere, Thirlmere Reservoir then Bassenthwaite Lake to the Lakes Distillery where a tour tasting of their own whisky, gin or vodka awaits. We allow some free time in Keswick before continuing in the afternoon to Grasmere where we include a visit to Dove Cottage and the Wordsworth Museum. Wednesday A leisurely morning begins with a short heritage railway journey from Haverthwaite to Lakeside, followed by a cruise on Lake Windermere to Bowness. After disembarking there is time to explore this popular holiday village at leisure. There are cafes, restaurants, shops and places to visit, such as the World of Beatrix Potter attraction. Thursday Today we head north towards Ullswater for another relaxing cruise. On then to the Cumbrian town of Penrith, rich in history and hub of the Eden Valley. This afternoon we spend time in Ambleside and see Waterhead, where the sweeping views across Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells should not be missed. Friday We commence our journey home, returning to the Midlands during the afternoon.
Holiday Itinerary
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 Entrance to the North-East Lead Mining Museum 4 Chesters Roman Fort 4 Cream Tea at Slaley Hall 4 Guided tour of Carlisle Castle (EH) 4 The South Tynedale Railway 8 Not included: All lunches
Monday We drive north to Cumbria for our 4-night stay. Tuesday This morning takes us to Hexham, a historic market town, where today is also market day. Here, you can search for a bargain, wander the town or possibly visit the historical Abbey. In the afternoon, we travel through the Pennines to Killhope – The North-East Lead Mining Museum. Here you can experience the life and work of the lead mining families of the North Pennines. Wednesday This morning is all about scenery, as we follow Hadrian’s Wall, passing the famous ‘Sycamore Gap’ as we continue along the wall to Chollerford (Inc Entrance to Chester's Roman Fort). We then drive through the countryside, around the scenic Derwent Reservoir to Slaley Hall, where we enjoy a cream tea in the beautiful former Edwardian Mansion. In the afternoon, we travel to the historic village of Corbridge. As far back as 1827 Corbridge was rated as a shopper’s paradise, a reputation it retains today. A wander along Corbridge’s pretty high street with its plethora of small shops with their decorated fronts will tempt you. Thursday This morning we travel to the border city of Carlisle, where we include a guided visit to Carlisle Castle (EH) – a major fortress that has withstood many sieges, facing more than any other castle in Britain. The castle played a key role in the conflict between England and Scotland. The Castle is also home to the museum of Cumbria’s Military Life. In the afternoon we journey via Penrith and the spectacular Hartside Pass to Alston, where we enjoy a ride on the South Tynedale Railway, Britain’s highest narrow-gauge railway line. Friday After breakfast we commence our journey homeward. Your Holiday Hotel
Your Holiday Hotel
The Gilsland Hall Hotel, Gilsland The Riverside Hotel, Kendal
A converted 18th century tannery, the hotel is situated on the banks of the River Kent, beneath the ruins of the town’s 12th century castle. A short walk away is the centre of this famous Lake District market town with its bustling shops, galleries and museums. The hotel’s restaurant has excellent river views and there is a range of leisure facilities including indoor swimming pool, gym, sauna & steam room. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality & hotel is generally level. Isolated steps throughout the hotel with a lift to most rooms.
Mon 27 April – Fri 1 May 2020 Departs 8.00am
4 Nights Returns 6.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £91 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
£589
Set in 140 acres of woodland with fantastic views across Irthing Gorge, where the River Irthing separates the counties of Cumbria and Northumberland. Restaurant, lounge bar and coffee shop. Regular entertainment. Mobility Grade: 3 – The manicured grounds are relatively flat & allow guests the chance to sit, relax and enjoy the views over the surrounding countryside. A few isolated steps throughout the hotel. Lift to most floors.
Mon 1 – Fri 5 June 2020
4 Nights
£559
Mon 14 – Fri 18 Sept 2020
4 Nights
£559
Departs 8.30am
Returns 6.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £24 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Reductions for (EH) English Heritage Members
Johnsons – A family business established for over 110 years
ENGLAND – NORTH WEST
KENDAL
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CUMBRIAN CAVALCADE
DISCOVERING YORKSHIRE
4 Nights From: £549 Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway
Holiday Itinerary
4 Door to Door Service 4 Our Own Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 The Cumbrian Coast Railway 4 Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway 4 Settle to Carlisle Railway 8 Not included: All lunches
NORTH WEST & YORKSHIRE
Monday We drive north to Cumbria for our 4-night stay. Tuesday Today we head for Longtown and drive along Liddesdale as we make our way to picturesque Kielder Water and Forest Park. We take a break at the visitor centre before continuing to Bellingham and Hexham, dominated by the Abbey overlooking the market square. This afternoon we return along the path of Ribblehead Viaduct Hadrian’s Wall which stretches some 76 miles from the Tyne to the Solway. Wednesday This morning we start our first train journey of the day in Carlisle. The line follows the Cumbrian coastline through Maryport and Whitehaven, with the stunning sea views staying with us to Ravenglass. Here we join the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway – L’al Ratty steam train from the coast to the foothills of England’s highest mountains. Seven miles of steam in the Lake District National Park. Thursday We travel into the Yorkshire Dales to Kirkby Lonsdale, where we find the weekly market in full swing. Then we travel on past the immense Ribblehead Viaduct, through charming Horton-in-Ribblesdale to Settle. In the afternoon we take in the most spectacular train journey on a main line railway in the whole of England – the famous Settle to Carlisle line. Towering viaducts, bridges, long deep tunnels and lovingly kept station gardens all help to make this one of the best loved lines in the country. We travel along the whole line through majestic scenery to Carlisle. Friday After breakfast we leave and begin our homeward journey.
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The Crown & Mitre Hotel, Carlisle The Crown and Mitre Hotel offers the perfect mix of Edwardian grandeur. The hotel was built in 1905 on the site of the original Crown and Mitre coffee house, which had a long and colorful history dating back to before the Jacobite Rebellion. The hotel has some beautiful original features including a real log fire and elegant sweeping staircase plus all the modern comforts of home to create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. 94 spacious bedrooms, newly refurbished swimming pool and Jacuzzi. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality & hotel is generally level. Isolated steps throughout the hotel with a lift to most rooms.
Departs 8.30am
4 Nights Returns 5.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £48 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
£549
Castle Howard
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Guided sightseeing tour of York 4 York River Boat Cruise 4 North Yorkshire Moors Railway 4 Entrance to Castle Howard 8 Not included: All
lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Your Holiday Hotel
Mon 6 – Fri 10 July 2020
4 Nights From: £549
Take a journey through time in the city of York where Roman, Viking and medieval legacies appear around every corner. We’ll uncover everything from the narrow lanes of the Shambles to the majestic Minster cathedral.
/ Look What’s Included
© Settle-Carlisle Railway
Known as the Gateway to the Scottish Borders, Carlisle boasts a rich Roman history – as evident in its medieval castle and cathedral.
© Flickr – Peter Trimming
Great Railway Journeys of the North
Day 1 We depart Henley and travel north to York for our 4-night stay. Day 2 Today is ‘York in a nutshell’. After breakfast we are joined by our tour guide for a comprehensive morning sightseeing tour of York. In the afternoon we enjoy a cruise on the river Ouse with Yorkboat, followed by free time. Day 3 This morning we leave for a spectacular scenic tour to Whitby and the North Yorkshire Moors National Park. Our first stop is Pickering where we join the North Yorkshire Moors Railway for a ride across the moors as we make our way to the historic seaport of Whitby, with its ruined Abbey atop the cliff overlooking the busy harbour. We have time for lunch here and to explore the town before returning across Blakey Ridge, offering some of the most spectacular views of the area. From Hutton-le-Hole we continue to Helmsley for a short break before returning to the hotel. Day 4 We visit delightful Castle Howard, best known for its starring role in ‘Brideshead Revisited’. We have time to explore the house and the lovely grounds. Day 5 We have the morning free for further exploration of York city centre, perhaps taking the time to explore the magnificent Minster, and the surrounding narrow streets and little alleyways, including the famous Shambles, before commencing our journey homewards. Your Holiday Hotels The Queens Hotel, York or The Double tree by Hilton York The Queens is one of our Popular Favourite Hotels that is well appointed and anxious to please, located on the banks of the River Ouse in the heart of the city and well-liked by our clients. Royal Brasserie, bar and Lounge overlooking the river. Mobility Grade: 5 – City: Generally level. Hotel: Has lift or slope alternative to steps. The Doubletree by Hilton is also located in the heart of York and an easy walk to both the Minster and Shambles. Facilities include a restaurant, bar and lounge. Mobility Grade: 5 – The hotel has a lift to all floors and two dedicated disabled rooms, subject to availability.
Thu 14 – Mon 18 May 2020 Queens
4 Nights
£549
Sun 30 Aug – Thu 3 Sep 2020 Doubletree by Hilton
4 Nights
£649
Departs 10.30am
Returns 6.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £86 (May) £160 (Aug) | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Travel on our Great Breaks, Day Excursions & Express Excursions too!
BRIDLINGTON
RELAXED SCARBOROUGH
& The Yorkshire Coast
At the Crown Hotel NEW TOUR
NEW TOUR 4 Nights From: £679
4 Nights From: £512 Bridlington
Scarborough
Scarborough is the original seaside resort; stunning scenery, glorious beaches, loads to see and do – is it any wonder that people have been flocking to Scarborough for nearly 400 years now?
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 Eden Camp Museum 8 Not included: All lunches
Your Holiday Hotel The Expanse Hotel, Bridlington The Expanse is a hotel with a feel of its own, this may be partly dictated by its superb location, but mostly because it is still owned and managed by the same family that built it. Situated on the quiet North Bay seafront in Bridlington, the hotel has an on-site restaurant which has sea views and Marine Bar. Mobility Grade: 4 – Resort & hotel: Generally, level. Lift serves all floors.
4 Nights Returns 6.00pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £48 (On Request only) Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
£512
Monday We journey north to Scarborough with an included lunch en-route, arriving at the stunning 4-star Crown Hotel for our 4-night stay. Tuesday This morning we head north following the coast road to Whitby, the famous fishing port which was once the home of Captain James Cook. High above the harbour stands the 7th century Whitby Abbey, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’. We have time to explore the narrow streets and busy harbourside before a scenic drive back to our hotel across Whitby the moors to Pickering. Wednesday A free day to explore the varied attractions of Scarborough. Thursday Our day starts in picture postcard Helmsley, the only market town within the North Yorkshire Moors National Park. We continue in the afternoon to Ampleforth Abbey, which is set in 2000 acres in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We will have tea and cake on arrival before a guided tour of The Orchard & Cider Mill. We can then take a self-guided visit to Ampleforth Abbey. Friday We retrace our route back to the Midlands with an included lunch en-route.
Your Holiday Hotel The Crown Hotel, Scarborough Widely regarded as Scarborough’s premier hotel, the Crown enjoys a commanding position on Scarborough’s South Beach, yet just a short walk from the beach and town centre. The hotel hosts its own swimming pool and leisure centre where guests can relax and indulge themselves in the elegant surroundings. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality: Fairly level. A few isolated stairs in public areas with a lift to all floors.
Mon 1 – Fri 5 June 2020 Mon 19 – Fri 23 Oct 2020 Departs 10.30am
Relaxed Traveller Lux Tvl Coach Relaxed Traveller Returns 4.30pm
4 Nights
£679
4 Nights
£685
Supplements Single Room: £110 (Jun) £94 (Oct) | Sea View Rooms available on request (Additional supplements apply) | Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
All Tours are operated either by our Club Class, Extra Legroom Coaches or our NEW Luxury Traveller Coaches
YORKSHIRE & NORTH EAST
Monday We drive up through Lincolnshire with a sightseeing break in Lincoln. Arriving in Bridlington for our 4-night stay at the Expanse Hotel. Tuesday Just north of Bridlington is the 8-mile chalk headland of Flamborough Head, thrusting out into the North Sea. We will see the country’s oldest complete lighthouse, dating from 1674, and perhaps some of the many varieties of birds that nest/migrate here. Our excursion continues north to the resorts of Filey and Scarborough Wednesday A free day to explore the resort’s many attractions. There’s lots to see and do round the promenade and the harbour or even take a boat trip to explore the RSPB Bempton Cliffs nature reserve. Other highlights include clifftop Sewerby Village and the Priory Church in the old town. Thursday An extended half day excursion to the Eden Camp Museum. Our visit will take you back to wartime Britain, experiencing the sights, sounds and even the smells of life on the home front and the front line, all housed within 35 huts built by Italian prisoners of war in 1942. Friday Departing our hotel we visit the ancient market town of Beverley. The historic centre is brimming with cobbled streets, unspoilt by modern developments and possesses some outstanding architecture, including the magnificent Beverley minster Cathedral. We return home during the late afternoon.
Departs 9.00am
4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Lunches on first & last days 4 Outlined excursions 4 Ampleforth Abbey with tea & cake and a guided tour of the Orchard & cider Mill 8 Not included: All other lunches
© www.geograph.org.uk – Steve Daniels
Eden Camp
Holiday Itinerary
Mon 5 – Fri 9 October 2020
/ Look What’s Included
Holiday Itinerary
© Flickr – Tony Roberts
Protected on the North East by the great headland of Flamborough, Bridlington lies near the top of Bridlington Bay and has long stretches of fine sandy beaches. There are miles of promenade with a busy working harbour alive with fishing boats landing their daily catch. There is a fascinating “Old Town” with curiosity shops and historic buildings, a bustling shopping centre, traditional seaside amusements, Spa Pavilion and Theatre
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SCARBOROUGH
WONDERFUL WHITBY
Magical Moorlands & Coastal Charms
4 Nights From: £609
NEW TOUR
4 Nights From: £562
North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Whitby Abbey
Scarborough enjoys an / Look What’s Included unrivalled position as one of 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own Britain’s premier coastal resorts, courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board yet also lies tantalizingly close 4 Outlined Excursions 4 Single to North Yorkshire’s rugged journey train ride on the North National Park and the rolling Yorkshire Moors Railway 4 Entrance to Castle Howard 8 Not Included: All pastures of the North Wolds. lunches The town straddles two magnificent bays separated by a headland crowned by a 12th century castle.
Whitby is a lovely seaside town in / Look What’s Included Yorkshire, split by the River Esk. 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own On the East Cliff, overlooking the courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board North Sea, the ruined Gothic Whitby Abbey was Bram Stoker’s 4 Outlined excursions 4 Entrance to Whitby Abbey (EH) 4 Entrance to the inspiration for “Dracula”. Nearby Hartlepool Maritime Experience is the Church of St. Mary, reached 4 Nunnington Hall (NT) 8 Not included: All lunches by 199 steps. The Captain Cook Memorial Museum, in the house where Cook once lived, displays paintings and maps. West of town is West Cliff Beach, lined with beach huts.
Holiday Itinerary
© Flickr – dvdbramhall
Monday Travelling north we visit historical York. Free time to explore the sites before continuing to Scarborough in the afternoon. Tuesday Today we visit Castle Howard. Widely accepted as Yorkshire’s finest historic house, Castle Howard is set amidst 1,000 acres of landscaped gardens with sweeping lawns, lakes and trees and has been home to the Howard family for over 300 years. It is also well known as the filming location of Brideshead Revisited. Wednesday We follow the coast road to Whitby, the famous fishing port which was once the home of Captain James Cook. There’s time to wander the narrow streets and busy harbourside before we join the North Yorkshire Moors Railway for a train ride over the scenic North Yorkshire Moors through Grosmont and Goathland to Pickering where we rejoin the coach to Scarborough. Thursday A free day to enjoy Scarborough’s many attractions. Friday Departing after breakfast we commence our journey homeward.
Holiday Itinerary
Monday We journey north, pausing in historical York for free time before continuing to Whitby in the afternoon Tuesday This morning we visit Whitby Abbey (EH) with its gaunt, imposing remains, recently named Britain’s most romantic ruin is set high on a cliff above the Yorkshire seaside town of Whitby. Founded in 657 by St Hilda, Whitby Abbey has become one of England’s most important archaeological sites. And at the interactive visitor centre you’ll find spectacular audio-visual displays. In the afternoon we are free to discover narrow streets and the busy harbourside that makes Whitby such a popular north east location. Wednesday We head to Saltburn-by-the-Sea, where we take the Cliff Lift to the shore and enjoy a gentle stroll along the historic pier. We continue to the Hartlepool Historic Quay home to the Trincomalee Europe’s oldest floating warship! The ship was restored by the people of Hartlepool so it’s only fitting that it now makes up the centrepiece of the spectacular Historic Quay. This superb visitor attraction offers the sights, smells and sounds of the naval yesteryear and is a superb recreation of an 18th century seaport that tells the story of life at sea at the time of Nelson, Napoleon and the Battle of Trafalgar which dares you to experience life aboard a real British Naval frigate two centuries ago. Thursday A visit to the traditional market town of Thirsk which is centred around its bustling cobbled square. It is more famous as the birthplace of James Herriot, the vet and author of ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ whose former surgery is now a museum dedicated to him. From here, we continue to Nunnington Hall (NT) – this picturesque Yorkshire Manor House has a feast of period rooms to explore, an organic garden and exciting exhibitions. Friday We make the leisurely drive home to the Midlands, making a suitable stop for lunch en-route.
Castle Howard
YORKSHIRE & NORTH EAST
Your Holiday Hotel
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The Saxonville Hotel, Whitby
Your Holiday Hotel The Red Lea Hotel, Scarborough A warm welcome awaits at the Red Lea Hotel where you will find comfortable, quality accommodation, excellent food and a level of service that is second to none. Built in the Victorian heyday, the hotel still retains much of its original character alongside modern facilities including heated indoor pool, Wi-Fi throughout. Restaurant, bar & occasional live entertainment. Mobility Grade: 3 – All of the 66 bedrooms are furnished to a high standard and there is a lift to all floors (please note there are steps to some rooms and at the front of the hotel).
Mon 20 – Fri 24 July 2020 Departs 8.00am
4 Nights Returns 3.30pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
£609
Owned and run by three generations of the Newton Family since 1946. Well situated on Whitby’s West Cliff, the comfort and hospitality of the Saxonville Hotel can be found just a few minutes stroll from the narrow streets and winding alleyways of this delightful, historic town. All of the en-suite rooms are tastefully decorated and furnished to high standards. Each spacious room has a TV, radio, telephone, hairdryer, and tea/coffee making facilities. Restaurant & bar. Mobility Grade: 2 – The location is relatively level, 6 steps to the entrance with alternative entrance available. One ground floor room, no lift, remaining 26 rooms are on 1st & 2nd floors.
Mon 11 – Fri 15 May 2020
4 Nights
£562
Mon 28 Sept – Fri 2 Oct 2020
4 Nights
£599
Departs 8.00am (May) 9.00am (Sep) Returns 3.30pm (May) 5.00pm (Sep) Supplements Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Discounts available for (EH) English Heritage & (NT) National Trust Members
Enjoy the Views – Treasure the Memories
& The Yorkshire Dales
RHS Harlow Carr – York Ripley Castle – Ripon
Harrogate Valley Gardens
Encounter beautiful Yorkshire landscapes and soak up the history and heritage of Harrogate, voted as “the happiest place to live in Britain”! Holiday Itinerary
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Embsay Railway & a visit to the Wensleydale Creamery 4 Skipton Canal Cruise & The Nidderdale Museum 4 The Harrogate Pump Rooms 4 Newby Hall & Gardens 8 Not included: All lunches
© Flickr – Tim Schofield
Monday Our journey takes us north to Harrogate and our 4-night stay. Tuesday Today we drive via Blubberhouses Moor to Embsay where we take a return steam train through picturesque Yorkshire Dales scenery. After this, we drive through Wharfedale to Aysgarth then along Wensleydale to the magical market town of Hawes, home to the famous Wensleydale cheese where we visit the factory and watch one of the cheeses being made. Wednesday We drive to Skipton – ‘Gateway to the Dales’. We also take a trip on the Skipton Canal with rib-tickling commentary by our host with tea & biscuits included. Our final visit today is Pateley Bridge, where we visit the Nidderdale Museum. Thursday We commence with a visit to the Royal Pump Rooms Museum. Situated in the original spa building, built to house the famous sulphur well, they tell the story of Harrogate, and there’s even the chance to sample the water. Afterwards, we are free to explore Harrogate. With its huge open spaces, broad tree-lined boulevards, antique shops and elegant buildings, Harrogate also boasts the world-famous Betty’s Tearooms, founded in 1919 by a Swiss Confectioner. Friday Departing after breakfast we visit Newby Hall and Gardens. Built by Sir Christopher Wren, Newby Hall epitomises the Georgian Act of Elegance, with Robert Adams beautiful interiors. Enjoy the 25 acres of gardens that were created in the early 1920’s. Return home in the early evening.
4 Nights From: £614 Ripley Castle
Harrogate evolved as one of the / Look What’s Included country’s premier spa towns 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own following the discovery of courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board medicinal waters, and the 4 2 included lunches (Days 1 & 5) grandeur of yesteryear still 4 Entrance to RHS Harlow Carr remains amid the beautifully 4 Open-top bus tour in York preserved buildings, and famous 4 Guided tour of Ripley Castle parks and gardens. With its close 4 National Coal Mining Museum 8 Not included: All other lunches proximity to the beautiful rolling Yorkshire countryside; this tour has all the ingredients for a truly memorable holiday. Holiday Itinerary
Sunday A scenic drive north through the rolling hills and moorlands of the Peak District. We stop for our included lunch en-route before continuing to our hotel in Harrogate for 4-nights. Monday This morning we make our way to RHS Garden Harlow Carr – a stunning 68-acre garden with contemporary & herbaceous borders, streamside and scented gardens, alpine zone, kitchen garden and woodland walks. Plant centre, shops and Betty’s Tearooms are some of the facilities available. Free time at leisure in Harrogate during the afternoon. Tuesday A full day excursion to the historic city of York. Upon arrival, we include a 60-minute open-top bus tour, so relax whilst your guide shows you all the amazing sights around York’s historic centre. In the afternoon free time for sightseeing and shopping, but there is so much to see you will have to be selective. The majestic Minster, the old Roman walls, the Shambles, the Jorvik Centre and the National Railway Museum are all worth considering. Wednesday Today, we visit Ripley Castle. This impressive 700-year old castle is located in the beautiful village of Ripley close to Harrogate. We include a guided tour with plenty of extra time for lunch and to explore the walled gardens, lakeside walk, pleasure grounds and deer park. Afterwards we continue to Ripon – the third smallest city in the UK, home to Ripon Cathedral and former home to the famous author Lewis Carroll. The stunning interior of the cathedral inspired many of Lewis Carroll’s characters in Alice in Wonderland and is located just around the corner from the marketplace. Thursday Departing our hotel we journey via the National Coal Mining Museum – Travel 140 metres underground down into one of Britain’s oldest working mines – This unusual and fully accessible experience will offer a genuine insight into the hard-working lives of miners throughout the ages. Here, we include lunch, prior to returning home during the early evening.
Newby Hall
Your Holiday Hotel Your Holiday Hotel
The Majestic Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, Harrogate
Crown Plaza Hotel, Harrogate This modern hotel is superbly positioned just a short walk from Harrogate town centre and gardens. Restaurant, bar & gym. Mobility Grade: 3 – The town of Harrogate does have hills and inclines and although the locality of the hotel is relatively level, a few steps may be encountered. Lift to all floors.
The recently refurbished Majestic is located in the centre of Harrogate. Set in 8 acres of beautiful grounds. Restaurant and lounge/bar. Leisure facilities include a health club, indoor swimming pool. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality & hotel is generally level with very few steps. There is a slight incline when walking into the town centre. This hotel has a lift to all floors.
Sun 7 – Thu 11 June 2020 Mon 20 – Fri 24 July 2020 Departs 10.30am
4 Nights Returns 6.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £80 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE
£615
Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£619
Sun 20 – Thu 24 Sept 2020 Relaxed Traveller
4 Nights
£614
Departs 9.30am (Jun) 9.00am (Sep) Returns 6.00pm Supplements Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £140 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Insurance Premium Prices FROZEN – All Holiday Insurance Prices held at last year’s rates!
YORKSHIRE & NORTH EAST
4 Nights From: £615
© VisitBritain – Joanna Henderson
RELAXED HARROGATE © www.geograph.org.uk – Richard Humphrey
HARROGATE
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SOUTH SHIELDS COAST, PENNINES
KYNREN An Epic Tale of England
& a River Tees Sunday Lunch Cruise
River Tees
On this new summer tour, we take in the beauty of the Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Catherine Cookson country and South Shields, as well as the edge of the Yorkshire Moors, including a delicious Sunday lunch cruise on the River Tees.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Guided tour of the South Shields Coast 4 3-hr Teesside Princess River Cruise, including Sunday lunch 8 Not included: All other lunches
Holiday Itinerary
YORKSHIRE & NORTH EAST
Thursday We journey north, arriving at our hotel in the afternoon for our 4-night stay. Tea/biscuits on arrival and during your stay we will enjoy one nights entertainment. Friday This morning we head to South Shields, home of the late Catherine Cookson, where we enjoy a morning guided tour travelling along the coast to Marsden Bay, Whitburn and Seaburn. In the afternoon we return to Darlington for free time – perhaps visiting the indoor market or explore the High Street. Saturday We head through the countryside to the small market town of Stanhope, right on the edge of the Pennines, where we are free to explore the Durham Dales Centre or Lime Tree Gallery. Our route continues through the rugged terrain of the North Pennines to Alston, where we stop for lunch. In the afternoon we continue through the scenic hills of Langdon Beck to the market town of Barnard Castle. Sunday We board the Teesside Princess at Castlegate Quay at Stockton-onTees and cruise upstream through glorious countryside towards Yarm, returning downstream to see the mighty Tees Barrage. During our 3-hour cruise we are served Sunday lunch. Please choose from Roast Beef & Yorkshire Pudding or Roast Chicken both served with roast potatoes and seasonal vegetables followed by lemon tart and cream, tea or coffee (vegetarian options available). Monday This morning we head homeward driving across the Cleveland Hills and Dales via Bilsdale, Helmsley and Sutton Bank, returning home during the afternoon.
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Your Holiday Hotel The Blackwell Grange Hotel, Nr Darlington
Departs 9.00am
4 Nights
Kynren
Set against the magnificent backdrop of Auckland Castle, County Durham. This 90-minute KYNREN show begins at dusk and ends in starlight. The show takes the audiences on a journey through 2,000 years of British history, myth and legend at breakneck speed. Encompassing the Roman occupation. Both World Wars. Viking and Norman invasions, medieval feasts, Tudor times, The English Civil War, the Georgian Renaissance, Industrial Revolution and Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee in between. This short break allows you to experience the magic, history and spectacle of KYNREN for yourself.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our Own Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 3 nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 ‘Gold Ticket’
seating for Kynren – An Epic Tale of England 4 Entrance to Beamish Open Air Museum 8 Not included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Friday We travel north via a stop in Harrogate, a Victorian spa town with great shopping and eating. Saturday A morning visit to explore the captivating city of Durham with its winding, cobbled streets, by the Beamish Museum dramatic Durham Cathedral and Castle World Heritage Site – one of the most stunning city panoramas in Europe. Following an early dinner at the hotel, we make our way to Auckland Castle for the show. As dusk turns to darkness, Kynren takes you on a spellbinding voyage through history, myth and legend. Sunday Today, we visit Beamish Open Air Museum – a living museum which tells the story of life in North East England in Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian times. Monday A leisurely drive homeward arriving home during the afternoon.
Your Holiday Hotel
The Blackwell Grange is a beautiful 17th century mansion peacefully situated in nine acres of its own grounds. Building commenced in 1693 and finished in 1717 and was a private house up to 1953. Hotel facilities include leisure club and heated indoor swimming pool, spa and sauna. Restaurant and bar/lounge. Mobility Grade: 4 – Hotel & locality have a few isolated steps. Rooms are all served by a lift.
Thu 23 – Mon 27 July 2020
3 Nights From: £498
© Beamish Museum
4 Nights From: £529
© Flickr – Alex Liiivit
NEW TOUR
£529
Returns 5.30pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Price includes 3 hour cruise and Sunday lunch; please give main course meal choice when booking.
Redworth Hall Hotel, County Durham A beautiful Jacobean country manor dating back to 1744. Standing in 150 acres of Durham countryside, the hotel combines traditional elegance with contemporary style. Restaurant, bar, lounge, indoor pool & gym. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality: Generally level. Hotel: Level entrance & lift to all floors.
Friday 21 – Mon 24 Aug 2020 Departs 8.00am
3 Nights Returns 4.30pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £75 | Holiday Insurance: £22 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Sightseeing Excursions are Included in the Price – On All Holidays!
£498
THE KINGDOM OF NORTHUMBRIA
& the Historic North East
& The Scottish Borders
4 Nights From: £545 Durham Cathedral
4 Nights From: £549 Chillingham Castle
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Entrance to Crook Hall 4 Raby Castle & Gardens and the Bowes Museum 4 The Auckland Project & ‘Locomotion’ at Shildon 8 Not included: All lunches
This tour covers a variety of splendid scenery, contrasting countryside, historic towns, rugged coastlines, rolling hills and quaint northern villages. The ancient Kingdom of Northumbria offers some of the most striking unspoilt beauty in England.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our Own Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Chesters Roman Fort & Vindolanda 4 Ford & Etal Estate including the Heatherslaw Steam Light Railway 4 Chilingham Castle 8 Not included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Holiday Itinerary
Monday We travel north with a suitable stop for lunch en-route before arriving at our hotel for our 4-night stay. Tuesday A morning visit to Durham City, home to the iconic Durham Cathedral and Castle World Heritage Site. In the afternoon we continue to Crook Hall – a Medieval Manor house built circa 1217 and one of the oldest inhabited houses in Durham City. Home to the Bell Family since 1995, the Medieval Hall merges into a Jacobean Manor house which in turn merges into a Georgian Town house reflecting its development over the centuries that it has stood beside the River Wear. The Hall provides a spectacular backdrop to the 5 acres of stunning gardens which are laid out in a series of rooms such as the Shakespeare Garden, the Cathedral Garden and the Secret Walled Garden. Wednesday We visit Raby Castle and Gardens, home to Lord Barnard’s family since 1626. One of the finest medieval Castles in England the gardens are a mix of traditional 18th century ornamental Walled Gardens, Yew Hedges, Trees, Plants and Ornaments. We continue deep into the North Pennines taking us to Barnard Castle where we visit the Bowes Museum – an important collection of treasures including fine art, ceramics, textiles and dress. Thursday We drive via Escomb Village, to admire the hidden little gem of Escomb Saxon Church, considered one of the finest 7th century churches in the country before visiting the Auckland Project – a brand new visitor destination in Bishop Auckland, with Auckland Castle as its centrepiece. Located in and around the 900-year-old Prince Bishop’s Castle, we will discover a thousand years of history on our visit which perfectly combines art, history and the outdoors. Friday Departing our hotel we visit ‘Locomotion’ in Shildon, a branch of the National Railway Museum, which contains many historic and interesting exhibits, locomotives and more, before commencing our journey home arriving during the early evening. Your Holiday Hotel
Monday We travel north towards Newcastle passing Antony Gormley’s iconic Angel of the North as it welcomes travellers to the area, arriving at the hotel during the afternoon. Tuesday Today we follow part of the route of Hadrian’s Wall, with an Heatherslaw Light Railway opportunity to see a section of the actual remaining structure. We visit Chesters Roman Fort to gain an insight into the life of a soldier living on Rome’s northern frontier. At Roman Vindolanda there’s a world-famous collection of artefacts and an opportunity to possibly see a ‘live dig’. Our journey takes us to Hexham Abbey, returning via Corbridge. Wednesday We visit the villages of Ford and Etal, a vast rural estate with Visitor Centre, steam railway, castles, paintings, cafe, tea rooms, craft workshops and the Black Bull, Northumberland’s only thatched roof pub. Whilst here we include a visit to Lady Waterford Hall – the hall was Ford School until 1957, a ride on the Heatherslaw steam light railway, and a visit to the Heatherslaw Cornmill, England’s most northerly working water mill. From here we head for the Scottish Borders region at Coldstream and continue along the Tweed Valley to Kelso. Thursday We make our way to Chillingham Castle, a 13th century, Grade I star-listed stronghold in Northumberland, with its fine rooms, gardens, lakes, fountains and tea rooms for a guided tour. The castle has an extraordinary ownership bloodline which runs back to the 1200s! Please note: As this is a 600-year old castle, this property is not suitable for people with mobility restrictions. We have free time after the tour to explore the estate further at your own pace. Friday A leisurely drive homeward. Your Holiday Hotel
Redworth Hall Hotel, County Durham
Millennium Copthorne, Newcastle
A beautiful Jacobean country manor dating back to 1744. Standing in 150 acres of Durham countryside, the hotel combines traditional elegance with contemporary style. Restaurant, bar, lounge, indoor pool & gym. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality: Generally level. Hotel: Level entrance & lift to all floors.
The Millennium Copthorne Hotel stands in one of the finest locations in Newcastle, on the banks of the River Tyne, just a short stroll from the city centre. Bedrooms are all river facing. Restaurant & bar facilities. Mobility Grade: 4 – The hotel is on the level with a few isolated steps. Lift to all floors.
Mon 29 June – Fri 3 July 2020
Mon 15 – Fri 19 June 2020
Departs 10.00am
4 Nights Returns 5.30pm
Supplements Double for Sole Use: £100 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
£545
Departs 9.30am
4 Nights Returns 4.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £60 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Travel with Johnsons – Travel with Friends
£549
YORKSHIRE & NORTH EAST
The beautiful city of Durham, with its Cathedral and Castle World Heritage Site, is the jewel in the crown of an extraordinary county. We discover what this magical North East corner of England has to offer, with its quaint market towns and delightful villages.
© Flickr – Tom Parnell
DELIGHTFUL DURHAM
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BEAUTIFUL NORTHUMBRIA
5 Nights From: £635 Lindisfarne
YORKSHIRE & NORTH EAST
Holiday Itinerary
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Day 1 We travel north towards Newcastle passing Antony Gormley’s iconic Angel of the North as it welcomes travellers to the area, arriving at the hotel during the afternoon. Day 2 This morning we head to the Beamish ‘Living Museum of the North’, where we step back in time and see how people lived and worked in the late 19th and early 20th century. Staff in period dress add to the amazing atmosphere as they tell their story and guide you through living history. Browse through the schoolhouse, have a peek in the newsagents or even buy freshly baked goods in the bakery! Take the tram to Pockerley Manor and see what farm life was like in the 1820s. After all this excitement, you can even relax in the Sun Inn, a good old-fashioned pub or take a trip to the traditional tearoom. Day 3 A leisurely morning in Newcastle followed by a fabulous cruise on the River Tyne – With expert commentary, we sail under many of the famous Tyne Bridges. Day 4 We visit Alnwick Castle and Gardens – This majestic and imposing medieval castle offers impressive architecture, fine art treasures and a beautiful setting. It has been a popular film location, for everything from Harry Potter to Elizabeth to Becket to Blackadder.
Day 5 To the resort of Seahouses on / Look What’s Included the North Northumberland Heritage 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our Own Coast. Offshore lie the remote Farne Islands, home to a wide variety of bird Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 5 nights half board and sea life. Following miles of sandy 4 Entrance to Beamish ‘Living dunes and unspoilt beaches we reach Museum of the North’ 4 River Tyne Cruise 4 Alnwick Castle & Gardens Bamburgh, home of Grace Darling, where the imposing castle looks out to 8 Not included: All lunches sea. Subject to tidal conditions we travel over the causeway to Lindisfarne (Holy Island), birthplace of British Christianity Day 6 A leisurely drive homeward arriving home during the afternoon.
Beamish
Mon 24 – Sat 29 Aug 2020
Your Holiday Hotel Millennium Copthorne, Newcastle The Millennium Copthorne Hotel stands in one of the finest locations in Newcastle, on the banks of the River Tyne, just a short stroll from the city centre. Bedrooms are all river facing. Restaurant & bar facilities. Mobility Grade: 4 – The hotel is on the level with a few isolated steps. Lift to all floors.
Sun 11 – Fri 16 Oct 2020 Departs 8.00am
Lux Tvl Coach
5 Nights
£635
5 Nights
£659
Returns 5.00pm (Aug) 5.30pm (Oct)
Supplements Single Room: £75 | Holiday Insurance: £29 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Johnsons – A Family business for over 110 years!
© Beamish Museum
Northumberland, a rich and diverse region with a long and illustrious heritage. From its unspoilt coastline to rural landscapes we’ll discover a land of mighty castles, pretty villages and historic market towns; lush rolling countryside and a coastline fringed by miles of golden sands – a perfect holiday setting!
© Flickr – Matthew Hartley
Beamish – Alnwick Bamburgh – Holy Island
PICTURESQUE PEMBROKESHIRE
TENBY & the South Pembrokeshire Coast
& the Beautiful Gower
4 Nights From: £455 Gower Peninsula
4 Nights From: £595 Tenby
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Tea/coffee & Welsh cakes on arrival 4 Harpist or pianist on one evening with one further night of evening entertainment 4 Entrance to Picton Castle & the Woodland Garden (Not Mar & Oct Tours) 4 Guided Tour of The Gower Peninsula with a cream tea (Exc March Tour) 4 Guided tour of St David’s Cathedral 8 Not Included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Sunday We arrive in Carmarthen during the late afternoon for our 4-night stay. Monday This morning we travel to the popular holiday seaside resort of Tenby, with its superb beaches, old town walls, interesting little side streets and alleyways just waiting to be explored. In the afternoon, we visit Picton Castle and Woodland Garden (Jun & Sep dates only). Situated in some 40 acres, we can discover just why they are regarded as Pembrokeshire’s finest stately home and gardens. (Our March & October Tours visit Saundersfoot & Tenby – They do not visit Picton Castle & the Woodland Garden) Tuesday Leaving the hotel we head south to the picture postcard resort of Mumbles, delightfully located on Swansea Bay. We have time for a look round and to obtain lunch. This afternoon we have a short drive to the Gower Heritage Centre at Parkmill. Here we meet our guide for a tour taking us to the beautiful unspoilt scenery of the Gower Peninsula. After the tour, we return to the Heritage Centre and enjoy a Gower Cream Tea. (Our March Tour does not include a visit to the Gower Heritage Centre, guided tour & cream tea). Wednesday Today our excursion takes us via St Bride’s Bay and Newgale Sands to the magical place of St. David’s, birthplace of the patron saint of Wales. A guided tour is included of St David’s Cathedral, the smallest in Great Britain. From St. David’s we head around the Preseli Mountains back to our hotel. Thursday After breakfast we depart our hotel, arriving home during the late afternoon. Your Holiday Hotel
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE
Tenby is one of the most popular and well-known resorts in Wales. Stroll the narrow- cobbled streets or sit in one of the many cafes, restaurants and public houses, or wander along the harbour, where you can board one of the cruises to nearby Caldey Island.
Monday We journey to South Wales with a suitable stop for lunch en-route arriving at our hotel during the afternoon. Tuesday We enjoy a half day excursion to historic Pembroke with its imposing castle set on the banks of the River Cleddau. The bustling main street is lined with both Georgian and Tudor buildings housing some fascinating shops, cafes and restaurants, whilst a stroll by the river and mill pond will take you around the castle walls. Free time in the afternoon to explore the historic seaside resort of Tenby. Wednesday This morning, we visit Aberglasney House & Gardens, spectacularly set in the beautiful Tywi Valley. Aberglasney Gardens is seeing a fascinating, ongoing garden restoration project undertaken in an area that covers over 10 acres and are destined to become one of the finest gardens in the UK. Thursday Today we take to the water for the 20-minute boat trip to Caldey Island. Caldey Abbey is the home of Cistercian Monks who farm this tiny island off the coast of Tenby and make the famous Caldey Island perfume and chocolate. There is also a medieval priory, lighthouse, post office/museum, gift shop and tea garden as well as a glorious sandy beach, pleasant walks and spectacular views. (The Boat Trip is weather dependant & may not be suitable for those with limited mobility). Friday After breakfast we begin our homeward journey, arriving home during the afternoon.
Your Holiday Hotel Park Hotel, Tenby
Located on the River Tywi within walking distance of the town centre, the 3-star Ivy Bush sympathetically blends olde-world charm with today’s modern facilities. Restaurant, large lounge area, and bar. Mobility Grade: 3 – Immediate locality reasonably flat. Hotel: One step to entrance with ramp alternative. Small lift to all floors. Due to the age & style of the building there are some floors with a few unavoidable steps.
This traditional yet elegant, family run hotel is perched on a cliff top with spectacular views overlooking Tenby. The Hotel provides an elegant dining room, the North Cliff Suite with a bar and dance floor. 40-foot outdoor swimming pool (seasonal), landscaped lawns, beautiful cliff top terraces and a garden bar. Mobility Grade: 2 – Accessed via 3 steps and it should be noted that there are multiple steps throughout this historic property. There is, however, lift access to all 42 rooms.
4 Nights
£455
Sun 14 – Thu 18 Jun 2020
4 Nights
£539
Sun 6 – Thu 10 Sep 2020
4 Nights
£539
Mon 4 – Fri 8 May 2020
4 Nights
£499
Departs 9.00am
Sun 18 – Thu 22 Oct 2020
Singles Galore
Singles Galore
Departs 9.00am (Mar/Sep) 9.30am (Jun/Oct) Returns 4.30pm (Mar/Sep) 5.00pm (Jun/Oct) Supplements Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Live entertainment on at least one night 4 Aberglasney House & Gardens 4 Caldey Island boat trip 8 Not Included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Ivy Bush Royal Hotel, Carmarthen
Sun 1 – Thu 5 Mar 2020
/ Look What’s Included
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£595
Returns 5.00pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £74 Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Call 01564 797000 or visit www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk
WALES
The natural beauty of the Pembrokeshire coast and the Gower Peninsula are famed all over the world. Glorious sandy beaches and seemingly endless rugged coastline give way to the Preseli Hills, historic towns and little villages. We stay in Carmarthen for our tour, ideal for visiting this delightful corner of Wales.
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CARDIFF
COINS, CASTLES
Cardiff Castle, St Fagan’s & The Gower Peninsula
4 Nights From: £549 Cardiff Castle
Royal Mint
The Welsh capital city has more than its fair share of attractions, top class entertainment and quality shopping. The city also boasts more green space per person than any other UK City offering fabulous parks and gardens to explore.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4-nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 Guided tour of Cardiff Castle & Cardiff 4 St Fagan’s National History Museum of Wales 4 Guided Tour of the Gower Watermill Heritage Centre with a cream tea 8 Not Included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Monday Travelling out via Monmouth we take in the scenic splendour of the Wye Valley as we head to Cardiff for our 4-night stay. Tuesday A morning Guided Tour of Cardiff Castle. Cardiff Castle is a proud monument to medieval craftsmanship and Welsh heritage. Much of it was restored and updated during the Victorian times, and today it’s a feast of marble, gilding and spectacular wood carvings. Later we enjoy an afternoon guided tour of Cardiff’s attractive city centre, as well as the modernised Cardiff Bay area. Wednesday A full day excursion to the stunning Gower Peninsula taking in the Mumbles and the Gower Heritage Centre, a guided tour of the converted watermill with a cream tea. Thursday Today, we visit St Fagan’s – The National History Museum of Wales. This leading heritage attraction allows us to take a walk around Wales – from Celtic times to the present day – where we can discover Wales, from Celtic times through to the present day. Since 1948 over forty original buildings from different historical periods have been re-erected in the 100-acre parkland, among them houses, a farm, a school, a chapel and a splendid Workmen’s Institute. Friday Departing Cardiff we drive over the ‘Heads of the Valley’ to Abergavenny, arriving home during the afternoon. Your Holiday Hotel
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE The Angel Hotel, Cardiff Enjoying a prime location in the heart of Cardiff, close to Cardiff Castle and the Millennium Stadium. Restaurant, bar and lounge/reception area. Mobility Grade: 4 – The streets around the hotel are level. 9 steps up to the hotel but wheelchair access available. Level access throughout the hotel with a lift to all floors.
Mon 22 – Fri 26 Jun 2020
WALES
Mon 24 – Fri 28 Aug 2020
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Departs 10.00am
4 Nights From: £599
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£549
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£549
Returns 3.00pm (Jun) 3.30pm (Aug)
Supplements Single Room: £104 | Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
This tour includes visits to some of South Wales’ most popular attractions including the Royal Mint, Caerphilly Castle, The Wye Valley & the Forest of Dean and the Brecon Mountain Railway.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our Own Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 Guided tour of the Royal Mint 4 Caerphilly Castle 4 Symonds Yat River Cruise 4 The
Brecon Mountain Railway & Penderyn Distillery 8 Not Included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Thursday We travel west via Tenbury Wells and Leominster to Hay-on-Wye. This fascinating town is a book lover’s paradise and a lovely and unique place to visit. In the afternoon we continue to our hotel for our 4-night stay. Friday Today we head to the new Royal Mint Experience to see how Brecon Mountain Railway more than two billion coins from the UK and across the world are produced each year. The visit includes a guided factory tour and free time in the interactive exhibition. A short drive away is Caerphilly. We visit the imposing 13th century medieval castle, which has a tower which leans more than Pisa’s. Saturday We enjoy a drive through the pretty Forest of Dean and Wye Valley today, our first stop is Symonds Yat where we join the Kingfisher Cruise for a lovely sail along the river, we then continue our drive passing Tintern Abbey and spend the afternoon in Chepstow before returning to our hotel Sunday We embark on a 6-mile return vintage steam train journey from Pant to Torpantau on the Brecon Mountain Railway. Travelling alongside the Taf Fechan Reservoir we climb to Torpantau high in the Brecon Beacons. Our 1.5 hr trip includes a 35-minute stop at Pontsticill station where there is a lakeside café and steam museum. Returning to Pant we head towards the famous Penderyn Distillery, where we enjoy a guided tour and tasting. Monday Departing our hotel, we travel via the Cathedral City of Hereford before our arrival home during the late afternoon. Your Holiday Hotel Parkway Hotel & Spa, Cwmbran, Gwent Located just north of Newport, set in its own grounds, surrounded by green parkland. 80 tastefully decorated bedrooms. Live entertainment in the bar at weekends. Intimate restaurant serving carvery menu. Extensive leisure facilities with indoor pool, gym & sauna. Mobility Grade: 4 – Ground floor rooms available with lift access to most rooms.
Thu 16 – Mon 20 Jul 2020 Departs 9.30am
4 Nights Returns 5.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £95 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Free Door to Door Home Pick-Up Service on All Holidays
£599
© Royal Mint
& The Brecon Beacons
CASTLES & GARDENS Of Medieval Wales
4 Nights From: £649 Erddig
Sunday Departing during the morning we travel outward via the British Ironwork Centre at Oswestry before arriving at our hotel in the Vale of Llangollen during the afternoon. Monday Today we visit Erddig (NT) – an atmospheric early 18th century house that reflects the ‘upstairs, downstairs’ life of a gentry family, giving a fascinating insight into its relationship with its servants. The downstairs rooms are home to a unique collection of servants’ portraits, whilst upstairs there is a wealth of important furniture, textiles and wallpaper. Next, we visit Chirk Castle (NT) – a 700-year-fortress overlooking the Rivers Dee and Ceiriog. The medieval dungeons and tower are relics of more spartan times, while the Long Gallery and State Rooms are sumptuous by comparison. Outside, the award-winning gardens contain clipped yews, herbaceous borders, shrub and rock gardens. Tuesday Travelling via Betws-y-Coed we visit magnificent Penrhyn Castle (NT) – Built on a massive scale over a period of 13 years and offers outstanding views of Snowdonia. There is so much to see here, from the unique architecture, opulent interiors, outstanding collection of paintings, restored Victorian kitchens and a railway museum. Later we drive over the Menai Straits to the Isle of Anglesey to Llanfair PG or better known as….. LLANFAIRPWLLGWYNGYLLGOGERYCHWYRNDROBWILLANTYSILIOGOGOGOCH – go on, we dare you to pronounce it! Your Holiday Hotel
Bala Lake Railway
The Wild Pheasant Hotel & Spa, Llangollen – A Best Western Signature Collection Hotel The refurbished Wild Pheasant Hotel enjoys a peaceful setting surrounded by gently rolling hills in the Vale of Llangollen. Attractive original features of the 19th century building have been retained, combined with contemporary chic. The hotel offers a 46 guest rooms, a brasserie and lounge bar plus extensive spa facilities including a hydrotherapy pool, steam room and sauna (spa treatments available at extra cost). Mobility Grade: 3 – Generally there is level access throughout with a few isolated steps. Lift to all floors.
Sun 31 May – Thu 4 Jun 2020 Sun 27 Sep – Thu 1 Oct 2020 Departs 10.30am
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£649
4 Nights
£679
Returns 3.00pm (May) 3.30pm (Sep)
Supplements Double for Sole Use: £200 | Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Reductions for (NT) National Trust Members
For Friendly Help and Advice Call Us on 01564 797000
©VisitBritain – Lee Beel
Holiday Itinerary
Wednesday We drive to Corwen, / Look What’s Included where we visit the 17th century Rug 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own Chapel, whose plain exterior hides courier service 4 Club Class Extra many riches within. Next, we enjoy a Legroom Coach 4 4-nights half board scenic drive to Llanuwchllyn for a 4 Welcome drink upon arrival 4 delightful 9-mile return journey on the British Ironwork Centre (Free Admission) 4 Entrances to the narrow-gauge Bala Lake Railway in the beautiful Snowdonia National Park. National Trust properties of Erddig, Chirk Castle, Penrhyn Castle 4 Rug Bala is the largest natural lake in Wales Chapel & a return train ride on the where we will see the magnificent Bala Lake Railway 8 Not Included: All lunches mountain vistas across the lake, dominated by Arenig Fawr and the Aran Mountains. Thursday Leaving our hotel after breakfast we commence our journey homeward.
WALES
The dramatic landscapes of north Wales, with their spectacular mountains and lush valleys are scattered with stately homes, glorious gardens and ancient castles whose imposing fortifications gave protection through times of conflict. Also of note on this fascinating tour are the 19th century fantasy Penrhyn Castle and the highly decorated Rug Chapel
© Flickr – Matt Cornock
NEW TOUR
85
LLANDUDNO & Great Little Trains of Snowdonia
4 Nights From: £565 Llandudno
Day 1 We drive to Llangollen, famously situated on the River Dee, overlooked by its magnificent Castle before continuing to the Victorian resort of Llandudno, arriving during the late afternoon. Day 2 We drive to Porthmadog where we enjoy a train ride on the historic Ffestiniog Railway to Blaenau Ffestiniog. Then we take the scenic Crimea Mountain Pass to Dolyddelan, then on to Betws-y-Coed. Here the raging rivers of the Lledr, Llugwy and Conwy all meet and after free time we return through the pretty Vale of Conwy to our hotel. Day 3 Today is free to explore some of the many attractions of this popular North Wales resort. We include a ticket for the open topped bus to enable you to explore the town and surrounding areas at your leisure. Day 4 This morning we enjoy a scenic trip on the Snowdon Mountain Railway, a narrow-gauge ‘rack & pinion’ railway that takes us from Llanberis to the summit of Mt Ffestiniog Railway
Your Holiday Hotel
WALES
Ness Botanic Gardens
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE The Dunoon Hotel, Llandudno
86
© Flickr – Matt Buck
Holiday Itinerary
Commanding an excellent location on Gloddaeth Street, the hotel is perfectly situated for the shops and the promenade. The Dunoon has an old-fashioned view of what a hotel should provide – quality, character and uncommon values. Amid the oak panels and antiques, the atmosphere is warm, intimate and relaxed with the service being personal and attentive. Restaurant, bar, snack bar, library, games room and lounge. Mobility Grade: 4 – Resort: Level seafront and shopping area. Hotel: Level entrance, with easy access throughout. Lift to all floors.
Thu 26 – Mon 30 Mar 2020
4 Nights
£565
Mon 18 – Fri 22 May 2020
4 Nights
£599
Wed 24 – Sun 28 Jun 2020
4 Nights
£625
Thu 23 – Mon 27 Jul 2020
4 Nights
£625
Mon 28 Sep –Fri 2 Oct 2020
4 Nights
£615
Departs 9.00am (All Dates)
Returns 5.30pm (Mar-Jul) 5.00pm (Sep)
Supplements Single Room: £24 (Mar) £26 (May-Sep) | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
With our bond in place – Your money is safe
© Flickr – Esther Westerveld
Snowdon, the tallest peak in England / Look What’s Included and Wales. Take in the views and 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own peruse the exhibitions at Hafod Eryri, courier service 4 Club Class Extra the summit visitor’s centre, before Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board making the return descent to Llanberis. 4 A ride on the Ffestiniog Railway Day 5 Departing our hotel we drive to 4 Llandudno open top bus ticket the Wirral Peninsula where we visit the 4 The Snowdon Mountain Railway 4 Entrance to Ness Botanic Gardens Ness Botanic Gardens. Filled with all 8 Not Included: All lunches year-round interest, enjoy extensive herbaceous borders, a Victorian style Potager, an alpine house and more. We return home evening during the early evening.
Llandudno is a traditional seaside resort with a wealth of attractions showcasing its Victorian origins and beaches offering spectacular views across Snowdonia and Anglesey. Our itinerary takes in some of the dramatic and spectacular scenery of Snowdonia National Park.
BEAUMARIS & The Isle of Anglesey
NEW ITINERARY
4 Nights From: £669 Portmeirion
Monday We head for North Wales, with an included stop for lunch en-route, arriving at our hotel in the afternoon. Tuesday We travel via Caernarfon, famous for its impressive castle, built by Edward I and scene of the investiture of Prince Charles in 1969. We continue to Portmeirion. Designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975, Portmeirion recreates an Italian village, with a truly Mediterranean feel and was the backdrop for the 1960s TV series ‘The Prisoner’. Wednesday A free morning to relax and enjoy our hotel’s location. Perhaps visit the superb castle which is a well-preserved example of medieval military architecture, or the gaol which will give you a fascinating insight into the world of the prisoner in Victorian times. In the afternoon we visit Plas Cadnant ‘Hidden Gardens’ – Described as one of North Wales best kept secrets, we will discover a historic garden under restoration. Situated between Menai Bridge and Beaumaris, the present owner bought the 200 acre Plas Cadnant Estate in 1996 and began work on the restoration of the historic garden and grounds. Since then large parts of the gardens have undergone a spectacular transformation and have been restored to their former glory. Thursday We begin with a visit to Halen Mon (The Anglesey Sea Salt Company), where we enjoy a behind the scenes tour where we learn about the history and importance of Sea Salt to the region. Next, we visit Tacla Taid – the Anglesey Transport Museum, for a trip down memory lane. Walk back in time and see over 100 classic vehicles, set in a replica of a 1940s cobbled Your Holiday Hotel
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE The Bulkeley Hotel, Beaumaris The most prestigious hotel in Anglesey, offering style, elegance and a warm welcome. In a prime position on the shores of the Menai Strait, overlooking the Snowdonia mountain range. Restaurant, cosy bar and cocktail lounge. Mobility Grade: 5 – Resort: Level. Hotel: Level with a few steps. Lift to all floors.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our Own Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 2 lunches 4 Admission to Portmeirion 4 Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens 4 Tour of Halen Mon & entrance to Tacla Taid 8 Not included: 3 lunches
Plas Cadnant
Mon 4 – Fri 8 May 2020
Relaxed Traveller Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£669
Mon 13 – Fri 17 Jul 2020
Relaxed Traveller Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£679
Mon 14 – Fri 18 Sep 2020
Relaxed Traveller Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£679
Departs 9.00am (May) 9.30am (Jul) 10.30am (Sep) Returns 5.00pm (May/Jul) 4.30pm (Sep) Supplements Single Room: £80 | Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
All Tours are operated either by our Club Class, Extra Legroom Coaches or our NEW Luxury Traveller Coaches
© www.geograph.org.uk – Jeff Buck
Holiday Itinerary
street where you can view an assortment of agricultural, military and civilian vehicles including cars, motorbikes, tractors, army trucks, armoured personnel carriers and more. Friday Our return journey takes us through more glorious Snowdonian scenery and following a stop for our included lunch en-route we arrive home during the early evening.
WALES
We are delighted to present this NEW ITINERARY for 2020 based in the historic town of Beaumaris on the beautiful Isle of Anglesey. Our featured excursions offer an insight into the history and traditions of Anglesey once the home of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
87
THE GRAND SCOTTISH
& Edinburgh
‘All Inclusive’
4 Nights From: £569 Peebles
4 Nights From: £539 Abbotsford House
The Scottish Borders is an area of scenic beauty, with miles of open moorland, green valleys and dozens of good-sized market towns, many built around an abbey, with random castles and more stately homes per square mile than any other part of Britain.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 Floors Castle 4 Return train ride on the Tweedbank Railway 4 Traquair House 8 Not Included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Sunday We journey north to the Scottish Borders, arriving at the Peebles Hydro for our 4-night stay. Monday Enjoy a sightseeing drive around the beautiful Borders Region, taking in Melrose with chance to visit the Abbey, probably the most famous ruin in Scotland. We continue to Kelso with its picturesque square on our way to Floors Castle, home to the Duke of Roxburgh. Floors is Scotland’s largest inhabited castle full of works of art and fine antiques Tuesday Today we start with a train journey on Scotland’s newest railway, running from Tweedbank near Galashiels to Edinburgh. Newly opened in 2015 the line follows the route of the lamented Waverley Route from Carlisle. We spend the day in the City of Edinburgh, with an opportunity to discover the host of attractions or the shops on Princess Street. The city is dominated by the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, an ancient fortress built on a volcanic crag. Other attractions include the gardens on Princes Street, the Old Town, The Royal Mile leading to Holyrood House and much more. Late afternoon we catch the return train to Tweedbank and join the coach for the hotel. Wednesday We have a short ride into Peebles for a morning free to explore the town and obtain lunch. This afternoon we pay a visit to nearby Traquair House. Dating back to 1107 and Scotland’s oldest inhabited house, Traquair was originally a hunting lodge for Scottish Kings and Queens, but today the beautiful house provides a magical and romantic setting with extensive grounds, maze, craft workshops and the famous Traquair House Brewery. Thursday After breakfast we leave and head for home.
Delight in the contrasting landscapes of Scotland as you enjoy an “All Inclusive” break from your base in the village of Symington in the Southern Uplands. The perfect location to discover Ayrshire, Edinburgh and the Borders with some fascinating attractions included.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome Tea/Shortbread 4 3 nights entertainment, 1 Scottish themed 4 Wine with dinner each night 4 3 x drinks vouchers each night 4 Entry to Rosslyn Chapel 4 Guided tour of Edinburgh 4 Entry to Traquair House & Abbotsford House 4 Guided
tour of Dumfries House with tea/coffee & shortbread 8 Not Included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Monday We journey north through the Cumbrian Fells making a convenient stop for lunch en-route arriving at our hotel in Symington during the afternoon. Tuesday First stop today is the 15th century Rosslyn Chapel, a truly unique and compelling building that has survived the turbulent times of the Reformation and was immortalised in Dan Brown’s film ‘the Da Vinci Code’ and is one of the most famous chapels in the world surrounded by myths and legends of the ‘Holy Grail’. In the afternoon we continue to Edinburgh where we include a short guided- tour of Scotland’s great capital city. Wednesday Today, we drive to Traquair House the oldest continually inhabited house in Scotland, which is over 900 years old and was a pleasure ground for Scottish Kings and a refuge for Catholic priests. Later, we continue to Abbotsford House, built and lived in by the 19th century novelist Sir Walter Scott – Stunningly located by the banks of the River Tweed in the heart of a landscape that inspired the poetry and novels of its creator. Thursday Take in some sea air as we stop in Ayr, on our way to nearby Dumfries House, one of Britain’s most beautiful stately homes and best kept heritage secrets, with sumptuous interiors and magnificent furnishings, located in a marvellous 2000-acre setting. It is often regarded as an 18th century timecapsule since the principal rooms have remained virtually unchanged for 250 years. We’ll enjoy exclusive access to a private room in the house to enjoy tea, coffee and shortbread, followed by a privately guided tour of the house. Friday After breakfast we depart our hotel, arriving home during the early evening.
Your Holiday Hotel The Peebles Hydro Hotel
SCOTLAND
Your Holiday Hotel
88
Peebles Hydro is located in the heart of the Tweed Valley and just a 45-minute drive to Edinburgh. Originally a centre for hydropathic treatments, as the water in the surrounding area is known for its healthy properties. The building dates from the late 19th century and is surrounded by forest. Lounge, bar, restaurant with sun room and leisure centre, featuring a heated indoor pool, gym and spa facility. The town of Peebles itself is a 15-minute stroll away. Mobility Grade: 4 – This is a large hotel with good access throughout Lift to all floors.
This country house styled hotel is set in its own ground in the village of Symington with open views across the gardens and Borders countryside. Restaurant and bar. Mobility Grade: 3 – Immediate locality reasonably flat. Isolated steps in hotel. There is no lift but there are a limited number of ground floor rooms with all other rooms on the first floor.
Sun 18 – Thu 22 Oct 2020
Singles Galore
Mon 13 – Fri 17 July 2020
Departs 7.30am
Returns 7.00pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
4 Nights
£569
Tinto House Hotel, Symington
Departs 7.30am
4 Nights Returns 7.00pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Travel with Johnsons – Travel with Friends
£539
©VisitBritain – VisitScotland
SINGLES IN THE SCOTTISH BORDERS
NEW LANARK MILL
GALLOWAY & BUTE
& The Falls of Clyde
Castles & Gardens of South West Scotland
4 Nights From: £649 New Lanark Mill
New Lanark was founded in the late 18th century by mill owner and social pioneer Robert Owen as a model village. One of the most impressive attractions at New Lanark is the Falls of Clyde, a stunning waterfall 85 feet high.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 ‘All Attraction’ ticket to the New Lanark Mill Heritage Village 4 A ride on the Falkirk Wheel 4 Entrance to the Kelpies 4 The Royal Yacht Britannia & Guided tour of Edinburgh 8 Not Included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Monday We enjoy a scenic drive north to Scotland. On reaching the border at Gretna we continue north passing Moffat to arrive in New Lanark and our hotel for our 4-night stay. Tuesday A day to discover the New Lanark World Heritage Site – founded in 1785 in a dramatic gorge close to the famous Falls of Clyde, the mill village of New Lanark quickly became known all over the world under the enlightened management of social pioneer, Robert Owen. Our ‘All Attraction’ entrance ticket allows us access to the recreated millworkers houses, historic working machinery and the nearby ‘Falls of Clyde’ waterfalls. There’s a Mill Shop selling locally made textiles and a welcoming café. Wednesday Today, we discover two of the most spectacular attractions in Scotland. Enjoy a boat trip on the Falkirk Wheel, the world’s only rotating boat lift which replaces the original 11 locks linking the Forth & Clyde and Union Canal’s. Then towering 30 meters above the Forth & Clyde Canal, The Kelpies are a feat of engineering. Each made with 300 tonnes of structural steel they are a monumental tribute to the horse-power heritage that was vital to the early industries of central Scotland. Thursday After breakfast we depart for a full day visit to the capital city, Edinburgh. Our first stop is the Royal Yacht Britannia, former floating royal residence of the Queen and her family. Follow in the footsteps of Royalty to discover the heart and soul of this special royal yacht. Later we continue to the city centre for a short-guided tour of Scotland’s grand capital! Friday After breakfast we bid farewell to our hosts and make our way home.
5 Nights From: £725 Culzean Castle
Explore the majestic lowlands and Dumfries & Galloway, taking in mulls, lochs, castles and forests as we take in the stunning sights and scenery, as well as Brig ‘O Doon’ at the Robert Burns Museum. We combine this with a visit to the beautiful island of Bute where we enjoy the lush scenery and tranquil calm of this evocative island.
©VisitBritain – VisitScotland
NEW TOUR © Flickr – Stefan Klaas
NEW TOUR
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 5 nights half board 4 Logan Botanic Gardens 4 Castle Kennedy Gardens 4 Culzean Castle 4 Robert Burns Museum 4 All Wemyss Bay/ Rothesay Ferries 4 Mount Stuart House & Gardens 4 Rhubodach/Colintraive Ferry 4 Guided tour of Inveraray Castles 8 Not Included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Thursday Travelling north we pause at Scotland’s ‘Book Town’ Wigtown, before arriving at the North West Castle Hotel for our 2-night stay. Friday Today we visit Portpatrick, a pretty picture- postcard harbour on the Mull of Galloway. We then head to Logan Botanic Gardens, Scotland’s most exotic gardens where we explore plant treasures from around the world. In the afternoon we visit delightful Castle Kennedy Gardens, home to a historical collection of Rhododendrons, Championship Trees and may other rare species, set in 75-acres. Saturday Departing our hotel we follow the coastal route to Culzean Castle and the Robert Burns Museum & Birthplace before catching our ferry from Wemyss Bay to Rothesay on the Isle of Bute and our 3-night stay at the Glenburn Hotel. Sunday This morning we visit the neo-gothic Mount Stuart House & Gardens, set in 300 acres of landscaped gardens, woodland and coast. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic tour of the island before returning for free time in Rothesay. Monday We take the short ferry crossing from Rhubodach to Colintraive from where we travel along the shores of Loch Fyne to Inveraray Castle & Gardens, where we enjoy a guided tour. In the afternoon we continue via ‘Rest & Be Thankful’ to beautiful Loch Lomond, pausing at the picture-postcard village of Luss before returning via Erskine Bridge and our ferry back to Rothesay. Tuesday After breakfast, we commence our journey home. Your Holiday Hotels The North West Castle, Stranraer & The Glenburn Hotel, Rothesay
Your Holiday Hotel
The North West Castle Hotel is a fine country house hotel, located along the shores of Loch Ryan, just a short walk to the centre of Stranraer. Elegant regency dining room. Indoor leisure including swimming pool & sauna. Lift to all floors. The Glenburn Hotel is located on the island haven of Bute, set in a prime position above delightful terraced gardens, commanding fantastic views over Rothesay Bay and the Cowal Peninsula. Large restaurant and a cosy bar and café as well as a snooker room, reading area and an outside terrace offering lovely views over the bay. Lift to all floors.
Our hotel is a restored 18th century cotton mill, set in the heart of New Lanark UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by native woodlands and close to the famous Falls of Clyde. All 38 spacious bedrooms have lovely views of the River Clyde or conservation village. 16.5 metre swimming pool & sauna, gymnasium and beauty room. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality is reasonably level with some cobbled paving within Heritage Village. Easy access throughout the hotel, with lift to all floors.
Mon 7 – Fri 11 Sept 2020 Departs 7.30am
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£649
Returns 7.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £68 | Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Thu 2 – Tue 7 July 2020 Departs 7.30am
5 Nights Returns 7.30pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £84 | Holiday Insurance: £29 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Johnsons – A Family business for over 110 years!
£725
SCOTLAND
The New Lanark Mill Hotel, New Lanark
89
Based at the Keavil House Hotel
Based at the Winnock Hotel 4 Nights From: £679
Edinburgh Military Tattoo
The Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a spectacle of music, light and precision movement performed by the massed pipes and drums of the Scottish Regiments and military units from all over the world. Steep rocks form a dramatic backdrop to the Tattoo’s Castle setting and, when subtle lighting picks out the lone piper playing a lament from the ramparts, few in the audience fail to be moved by the atmosphere.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 3 nights half board and 1 night with bed & breakfast 4 One additional dinner in Edinburgh 4 Outlined Excursions 4 Entrance to Stirling Castle & the Bannockburn Heritage Centre 4 Guided tour of Edinburgh 4 Good seats for the Military Tattoo 8 Not Included: All lunches
Edinburgh Military Tattoo
The Edinburgh Military Tattoo was first performed in 1950 at the Edinburgh Music Festival. Today, with its captivating blend of music, ceremony, entertainment and theatre, set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, it is without doubt one of the world’s greatest shows. NB Access to the Tattoo is via a steep gradient, which may be a problem for people with walking difficulties.
NB Access to the Tattoo is via a steep gradient, which may be a problem for people with walking difficulties. Sunday An unhurried drive north with a convenient lunch stop en-route. Monday On today’s excursion we delve into the past and retrace the Stirling Castle steps of the age-old conflict between Scotland and England. We visit imposing Stirling Castle, built on the top of a cliff, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. We pass the National Wallace Monument as we double-back to Bannockburn where we include entrance to the Bannockburn Heritage Centre. Tuesday After a relaxing morning in our hotel, we make our way to Edinburgh to enjoy a guided tour of the city and see some of the many famous sights. Enjoy dinner in the heart of Edinburgh before we visit the renowned spectacle of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Wednesday The university town of St Andrews and the East Fife fishing villages are our destinations today. Discover the cathedral and castle ruins before we continue to Crail and Anstruther, before returning via the delightfully named Pittenweem and St Monans. Thursday We return home with a convenient lunch stop en-route.
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE
SCOTLAND
Set in 12 acres of landscaped gardens, our excellent hotel is an elegant country house with award winning food. Award winning Cardoon Restaurant, comfortable lounge, bar, spa facilities including indoor pool, spa bath, sauna and steam room. Mobility Grade: 4 – The hotel is in a generally level location. There is no lift, but ground floor rooms are available on request.
90
Departs 7.30am
4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board
(Note lunch replaces dinner on Day 2)
4 Welcome Drinks Reception 4 4-Course Individual Dining
Experience in the Merlin Restaurant including a ‘Taste of Scotland’ dining 4 High Quality Wine with dinner 4 Tea/Coffee after dinner 4 At least 2 nights entertainment 4 Edinburgh Tattoo Ticket 4 Pollok House (NTS) & Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum 8 Not Included: All lunches except on Day 2
Thursday We head north through the Scottish Border Region and on to the village of Drymen where we stay for 4-nights at the popular Winnock Hotel. Enjoy dinner this evening followed by Scottish themed entertainment. Friday A morning to relax in Drymen with an included lunch at the hotel before we depart for Edinburgh. Enjoy some time for shopping or sightseeing in this captivating city before we make our way to the castle and take our seats for the 9pm performance of the military tattoo. (Please note that this will be a very late return). Please note that the actual date we visit the Tattoo may be subject to change to the Saturday Saturday Following a leisurely breakfast we take a drive to the Loch Lomond Shores Visitor Centre, located on the banks of bonnie Loch Lomond – Regarded as the Queen of the Scottish Lochs and measuring some 23 miles long and 5 miles across, Loch Lomond is the largest expanse of fresh water in Great Britain. Sunday Today we enjoy a guided tour around Pollok Park, located in the south side of Glasgow. Pollok House (NTS) is Scotland’s answer to Downton Abbey and gives a real taste of upstairs/downstairs life in the 1930’s. this grand country house is filled with lavish and priceless furniture as well an impressive collection of Spanish Art. We return via the marvellous Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum – one of Scotland’s most popular ‘Free’ attractions and features 22 themed, state of the art galleries displaying an astonishing 8000 objects. Monday After a traditional cooked breakfast we journey home to the Midlands. Your Holiday Hotel
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£679
Returns 7.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £100 | Holiday Insurance: £28 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE Winnock Hotel, Drymen Nr Loch Lomond
Keavil House Hotel, Nr Dunfermline
Sun 16 – Thu 20 Aug 2020
/ Look What’s Included
Holiday Itinerary
Holiday Itinerary
Your Holiday Hotel
4 Nights From: £685
Situated on the pretty village green in the conservation village of Drymen, located in the heart of the beautiful Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Sensitively extended and refurbished, whilst retaining all its traditional charm, the hotel offers friendly hospitality and comfortable accommodation. Restaurant, bar & conservatory lounge. Mobility Grade: 3 – The resort & hotel are on the level. Hotel has no lift, but rooms are on ground & first floor only.
Thu 27 – Mon 31 Aug 2020 Departs 7.30am
4 Nights Returns 7.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £80 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Discounts available for (NTS) National Trust Members
Call 01564 797000 or visit www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk
£685
© Flickr – Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
THE EDINBURGH TATTOO
© Flickr – US Air Force
THE EDINBURGH TATTOO
EASTER SCOTTISH ‘ALL INCLUSIVE’
BLUEBELL GLADES IN THE TROSSACHS
& a ‘Taste of Scotland’
& Loch Cruising
4 Nights From: £539
4 Nights From: £595 Loch Lomond
Our Easter ‘All-Inclusive’ holiday based at the Winnock Hotel, close to Loch Lomond includes some of the most stunning scenery possible as we journey through the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Parks. Holiday Itinerary
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome Drinks Reception 4 4-Course Individual Dining Experience in the Merlin Restaurant 4 High Quality Wine with dinner 4 Tea/Coffee after dinner 4 At least 2 nights entertainment 4 Open Bar from 7.30pm-10.30pm each night (Selected Brands) 4 Packed lunches on 3 Days 4 Outlined excursions 4 Entrance to the Palace of Holyroodhouse 8 Not included: 2 lunches
© Flickr – Michael Mayer
Thursday Travel north through the Border Region arriving at our hotel in the late afternoon. Welcome evening drinks reception before dinner. Friday A wonderful scenic excursion takes us firstly to the pretty town of Luss on the shores of Loch Lomond, where we spend a little free time before continuing our journey. We travel through Arrochar at the northern tip of Loch Long before enjoying a stunning mountain drive passing ‘The Cobbler’ before reaching the stunning Rest and Be Thankful Pass. Shortly, lovely Loch Fyne comes in to view and we follow its shores to Inveraray Inveraray which overlooks Loch Shira. Saturday In the morning we visit ‘Auld Reekie’, an affectionate local name for the beautiful city of Edinburgh. We visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Scotland’s famous royal residence, which dates to late 15th century, followed by some free time at leisure in Scotland’s first city. Sunday Another scenic excursion today taking us into the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park & The Trossachs, we pass the Lake of Monteith – Scotland’s only natural Lake and enjoy a stop at Callander. We return to our hotel passing Loch Venachar & Loch Achray. Monday Departing after breakfast we commence our journey homeward. / A POPULAR FAVOURITE
Your Holiday Hotel
Britain’s favourite flower grows in abundance in the Trossachs National Park and our tour will try to capture the Bluebell glades in full bloom. Enjoy a wonderful four-night break at the popular Winnock Hotel, exploring the area and culminating in a delightful visit to see Duntreath Castle and Gardens Holiday Itinerary
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome Drinks Reception 4 4-Course Individual Dining Experience in the Merlin Restaurant including a ‘Taste of Scotland’ dining 4 High Quality Wine with dinner 4 Tea/Coffee after dinner 4 Light lunches or refreshments between Friday & Sunday 4 At least 2 nights entertainment 4 Cruise on Loch Katrine 4 Loch Lomond Cruise 4 Tour of Duntreath Castle 8 Not Included: Lunches on Thursday & Monday
Thursday We journey north to the pretty conservation village of Drymen, situated in the heart of the beautiful Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Friday After breakfast we depart for a day’s adventure in to the Trossachs. Travelling via Aberfoyle we climb ‘Dukes Pass’ to lovely Loch Katrine where the hunt begins for the ‘carpets of blue’! The drive has often been described as one of the most beautiful in Britain. After a soup & sandwich lunch at Brenachoile café, we enjoy a 2-hour leisurely cruise on-board the Steam Ship ‘Sir Walter Scott’. Saturday Taking to the water again, we enjoy a 2-hour cruise exploring the secret islands and Narrows of Loch Lomond. We make a stop on Cailloch island where refreshments are served. Explore the waves of bluebells growing in the dapple shades of the island’s ancient woodland. Tonight, after dinner, we have a Scottish Show with bagpipes, haggis and Highland dancing. Sunday We set off to the delightful 16th century Duntreath Castle at Blanefield. Here, you will be met by Lady Edmonstone and Sir Archie who will show you around their home. Afterwards enjoy morning coffee and some home-baking, after which you are free to explore the castle, grounds and keep at leisure. A light lunch is provided back at the hotel. Free time in the afternoon. Tonight, after dinner there is live musical entertainment. Monday After breakfast we commence our journey homeward, arriving back during the evening. Your Holiday Hotel
Winnock Hotel, Drymen Nr Loch Lomond
Winnock Hotel, Drymen Nr Loch Lomond
For Hotel Information please see page 90.
For Hotel Information please see page 90.
Thu 9 – Mon 13 April 2020 Departs 7.00am
4 Nights Returns 7.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £64 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
£539
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE
Thu 7 – Mon 11 May 2020 Departs 7.30am
4 Nights Returns 7.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £64 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Free Door to Door Home Pick-Up Service on All Holidays
£595
SCOTLAND
Palace of Holyroodhouse
91
LEGENDS OF THE LOCHS
A VICTORIAN STEAM JOURNEY
4 Nights From: £624 Loch Katrine
Delve into the mysteries of Scotland’s watery depths and explore some of the finest waterways and historic places with this fun-filled itinerary. Holiday Itinerary
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 4-Course Individual Dining Experience in the Merlin Restaurant 4 High Quality Wine with dinner 4 Tea/Coffee after dinner 4 At least 2 nights entertainment 4 Packed lunches are provided where a lunch is not included 4 Aberfoyle Woollen Mill 4 Loch Katrine Cruise 4 Boat ride on the Falkirk Wheel & entrance to the Kelpies 4 Visit to Glengoyne Distillery
Thursday Travel north through the Border Region arriving at our hotel in the late afternoon. Welcome evening drinks reception before dinner. Friday Our tour of the Trossachs today takes us to Aberfoyle Woollen Mill before a storytelling cruise on Loch Katrine on-board the steam ship SS Sir Walter Scott. After an included lunch at a Lochside restaurant we enjoy a scenic drive via Callander to view the magnificent Falls of Dochart at Killin. Located at the western end of Loch Tay the falls can be viewed from the village’s bridge where we can admire the misty spray and crashing white waters that flow around the Islands of Inchbuie, known locally as the ancient burial site of Clan McNab Saturday After a leisurely breakfast we visit enjoy an excursion travelling along the western shores of Loch Lomond to Luss. At Tarbet, where we turn westwards via Arrochar and Loch Long to the magnificent viewpoint of ‘Rest & Be Thankful’ before reaching the town of Inveraray which is situated on the shores of Loch Fyne. Sunday Today we visit two of the most spectacular attractions in Scotland. Enjoy a boat trip on the Falkirk Wheel, the world’s only rotating boat lift which replaces the original 11 locks linking the Forth & Clyde and Union Canal’s. Then towering 30 meters above the Forth & Clyde Canal, The Kelpies are a feat of engineering. Each made with 300 tonnes of structural steel they are a monumental tribute to the horse-power heritage that was vital to the early industries of central Scotland. Monday Departing after breakfast we visit Glengoyne Distillery before commencing our journey homeward. Please note: The days on which the included excursions operate may be subject to change.
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE
SCOTLAND
Your Holiday Hotel
92
On this nostalgic tour, based at the Winnock Hotel, Drymen near Loch Lomond, we enjoy steam journeys on water and rail, and watch the beauty of our surroundings unfold on some memorable excursions Holiday Itinerary
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Welcome Drinks Reception 4 4-
Course Individual Dining Experience in the Merlin Restaurant including a ‘Taste of Scotland’ dining 4 High Quality Wine with dinner 4 Tea/Coffee after dinner 4 At least 2 nights entertainment 4 Cruise on Loch Katrine & Lochside lunch 4 Falkirk Wheel & train ride on the Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway 4 Tea Dance on the Steamship ‘Maid of the Loch’ 8 Not Included: 4 lunches
Wednesday We journey north with suitable stops en-route, and arrive in Drymen during the afternoon with time to settle into our rooms, before joining our host for a welcome drink followed by dinner Thursday After breakfast we drive to Loch Katrine for a two-hour cruise along the full length of the loch aboard the SS steamship Sir Walter Scott, followed by a delicious lunch at the Lochside Restaurant. Friday Today we head to the steam driven Falkirk Wheel and enjoy a Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway unique ride on the world’s first and only rotating boat lift. During the afternoon we board the Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway for a steam train ride and we have chartered a dining car in which you can relax in style and enjoy a delightful cream tea. Saturday We explore Loch Lomond and the Lomond Shores retail centre. In the afternoon a Tea Dance on board the Steamship Maid of the Loch (the boat does not sail). After dinner this evening, relax in one of the hotel’s lounges or bar. Sunday We bid a fond farewell to Scotland and commence our homeward journey, making suitable stops en-route. Please note: The days on which the included excursions operate may be subject to change.
© Peter Backhouse
Falkirk Wheel
4 Nights From: £665
Your Holiday Hotel
Winnock Hotel, Drymen Nr Loch Lomond
Winnock Hotel, Drymen Nr Loch Lomond
For Hotel Information please see page 90.
For Hotel Information please see page 90.
Thu 25 – Mon 29 June 2020 Departs 7.30am
4 Nights Returns 7.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £80 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
£624
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE
Wed 23 – Sun 27 Sep 2020 Departs 7.30am
4 Nights Returns 7.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £76 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
For Friendly Help and Advice Call Us on 01564 797000
£665
& The Kintyre Peninsula
Arran – Islay – Skye
4 Nights From: £594 Brodick Castle
With a remarkable diversity of landscapes, clear green seas, sandy beaches, mountains and lochs it’s little wonder Arran is referred to as “Scotland in Miniature”. With the influence of the Gulf Stream the climate is mild, a place where you can see palm trees around its 56 miles of coastline.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Outlined Excursions 4 Return Ferry Crossings Ardrossan-Brodick (55 Mins) 4 Tour & Tastings at Arran Distillery 4 Return Ferry Lochranza-Claonaig (30 Mins) 4 Light lunch at the Grey Gull Hotel 4 Entrance to Brodick Castle & Gardens 8 Not included: 4 lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Monday We drive north, boarding the afternoon ferry from Ardrossan to Arran. Check into the Kinloch Hotel for our 4-night stay. Tuesday Today we explore Arran and its coastal villages, travelling northwards along the coast for a guided tour and tastings at the Arran Distillery. Time free in Brodick, the island’s capital before we continue south via Whitling Bay and Lamlash. Cameras ready as we pause at the impressive “Paddy’s Milestone” at Kildonan before continuing along the coast to Blackwaterfoot. Wednesday Hugging the western coastline we head to Lochranza for the ferry sailing over the Mull of Kintyre. We journey along the shoreline of Loch Fyne for a soup/sandwich lunch at the Grey Gull hotel in Ardrishaig. Later, we visit the Crinan Canal – a marvellous feat of engineering that links Loch Fyne at Ardrishaig with the open sea at Crinan, some 9 miles away. There are 15 lock gates and over 2000 vessels use the canal each year. Thursday After a leisurely morning we visit Brodick Castle & Gardens, beautifully positioned overlooking the Firth of Clyde. The castle is packed full of treasures, period furniture, paintings and silverware. The landscapes gardens, dating back to 1710, include water features, wildlife ponds, a fine collection of rhododendrons, Bavarian Summer House, walled garden and woodland walks. Friday After breakfast we commence our journey south. After a stop for lunch we arrive home in the evening.
6 Nights From: £825 Bowmore Distillery
Sparkling like jewels off the west coast of Scotland are three of Scotland’s “little gems” – The Isles of Arran, Islay and Skye – each one having their own unique charm. Holiday Itinerary
© Flickr – Jeff Byrnes
THE INNER HEBRIDEAN
©VisitBritain – VisitScotland
THE ISLE OF ARRAN
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 6 nights half board 4 Ferry Crossings from ArdrossanBrodick & Lochranza-Claonaig 4 Return Ferry to Islay (Breakfast on Board) 4 Ferry Mallaig-Armadale, Skye 4 Entrance to Dunvegan Castle 8 Not Included: All lunches
Saturday We journey north through the Scottish borders to our overnight hotel, close to Glasgow. Sunday Take the ferry to Arran – “Scotland in Miniature”, with free time in Brodick pausing at Highland Aromatics and Arran Cheese Shop. Then, taking the coastal route we catch the late afternoon sailing to Kintyre, arriving at the Grey Gull Hotel for our 2-night stay. Monday Board the early morning sailing at Kennercraig (breakfast included) to the Isle of Islay. Our visit includes Bowmore, the islands capital, Tour & tasting at a distillery and a visit to the ‘Big Strand’ on Laggan Bay with 6 miles of unspoilt sandy beaches. Tuesday Travelling through majestic Highland countryside we travel via Inveraray and Loch Awe to Oban. Next, we follow the shoreline of lovely Loch Linnhe to Fort William for a short stop. Then we drive along the spectacular “Road to the Isles” before boarding the ferry to Skye and the Kings Arms Hotel, our base for the next two nights. Wednesday The Isle of Skye is abundant in wildlife and the scenery everchanging from the patchwork of velvet moors to jagged mountains and towering sea cliffs. Our tour takes in much of the island and visits Portree and Dunvegan Castle – home to the MacLeod Clan for over 800 years. Thursday We cross the Skye Bridge, pausing at the imposing Eilean Donan Castle before continuing to Fort William. Continue through Glencoe and along the banks of Loch Lomond to our Perthshire hotel for our final night. Friday Journeying south, we are homeward bound. Your Holiday Hotels
Your Holiday Hotel 1st Night – Glasgow Area – Minimum 3-star Standard 2nd & 3rd Nights – Grey Gull Inn, Ardrishaig – 3-star 4th & 5th Nights – Kings Arms Hotel, Kyleakin, Isle of Skye – 2-star STB 6th Night – Perthshire Area – Minimum 3-star Standard
The Best Western Kinloch Hotel enjoys a stunning location in the quiet hamlet of Blackwaterfoot overlooking the Kilbrannan Sound and the shores of Kintyre. Facilities include indoor heated swimming pool, sauna, squash court, snooker room, lounges and public bars. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality fairly level. Small steps or ramp access to front entrance. All facilities are on ground floor. Lift access to upper floors.
The hotels offered are varied in style and are those that have the sufficient number of rooms available to accommodate a large party in an otherwise rural location. All have restaurant, bar & lounge facilities. No lift at the Grey Gull but ground floor rooms can be requested. The Kings Arms Hotel has panoramic views over the Kyle of Lochalsh and has a lift. Mobility Grade: 3 – This is a touring holiday and due to the nature of this holiday, customers with mobility difficulties may be limited in their enjoyment.
Mon 28 Sept – Fri 2 Oct 2020
Sat 9 – Fri 15 May 2020
Departs 7.00am
4 Nights Returns 7.30pm
£594
Departs 7.00am
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
6 Nights Returns 7.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £110 | Holiday Insurance: £30.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
With our bond in place – Your money is safe
£825
SCOTLAND
Kinloch Hotel, Blackwaterfoot, Isle of Arran
93
SCOTLAND’S GRAND TOUR
7 Nights From: £1029 Dumfries House
Holiday Itinerary
Sunday We drive north through the Borders, heading west for the small Ayrshire seaside town of Troon, arriving at the Marine Hotel for our 2-night stay. Monday This morning we visit Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, which offers a unique encounter with Scotland’s favourite son. The museum includes the famous Burns Cottage, where he set some of his greatest work, the elegant monument and gardens created in his honour and a modern museum housing a collection of his life and works. We continue to Dumfries House, one of Britain’s most beautiful stately homes and best kept heritage secrets, with sumptuous interiors and magnificent furnishings, located in a marvellous 200-acre setting. Here we enjoy a guided tour and afternoon tea before returning to our hotel. Tuesday Departing Troon we travel east to Dundee, where after free time for lunch we visit Discovery Point. Here, we explore Captain Scott’s ship ‘Discovery’, which he sailed on during his remarkable Antarctic exploration. From here, we journey north to Aberdeen and our 4-night stay Wednesday After breakfast we visit Crathes Castle – one of the most superb castles in Scotland. This splendid 16th century family tower house has wellpreserved interiors and wonderful gardens. Later, we continue to the Royal Deeside Railway a standard gauge steam and diesel hauled heritage railway, located in a beautiful setting running alongside the River Dee, where we enjoy a 2- mile return heritage train ride.
Thursday A day at leisure / Look What’s Included Friday Today we enjoy an excursion 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own through the lovely Royal Deeside countryside visiting the pretty unspoilt courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 7 nights half board village of Ballater, where it would 4 Outlined Excursions 4 Entrances to appear that every shop is by ‘Royal Robert Burns Birthplace & Dumfries Appointment’! We continue via Crathie House with House Tour & Afternoon Tea 4 RRS Discovery 4 Crathes Church to the Balmoral Estate Castle & Estate 4 The Royal Deeside (Entrance Included). Railway 4 Balmoral Estate 4 Guided Saturday Departing our hotel after Tour of the Aberdeenshire Highland breakfast we drive to Banchory to visit Beef Farm with lunch & refreshments 8 Not Included: All lunches the Aberdeenshire Highland Beef Farm. This is a working farm, where the owners are passionate about their herd. Following tea, coffee & shortbread on arrival we have a guided tour where we meet this native breed, discover their history and sample some succulent highland beef. To conclude our visit, we include a lunch of ‘shoulders tea’, tatties & onions (A regional dish to Aberdeenshire) with beetroot and oatcakes on the side. Departing after lunch we commence our drive south to our final night in the Stirling area. Sunday Sadly, its homeward bound, where we arrive during the early evening.
SCOTLAND
Your Holiday Hotels
94
Royal Deeside Railway
Days 1 – 2 The Marine Hotel, Troon (4-star) Overlooking the Golf Course & Firth of Clyde. Restaurant & lift. Days 3 – 7 Ardoe House Hotel, Aberdeen (4-star) This 19th century mansion house is set in 30 acres of tranquil countryside 3 miles from Aberdeen. There is a lift. Day 7 Stirling area (minimum 3-star standard)
Sun 17 – Sun 24 May 2020 Departs 7.30am
7 Nights
£1029
Returns 7.00pm
Supplements Single Room: Nil | Double for Sole Use: £196 | Holiday Insurance: £31.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Sightseeing Excursions are Included in the Price – On All Holidays!
© www.geograph.org.uk – Nigel Corby
This luxurious twin centre tour starts with 2 nights at the Marine Hotel Troon, overlooking the spectacular Ayrshire coast, before travelling across Scotland to Aberdeenshire to stay in a stunning 19th century former manor house. Full of great attractions, just look at what is included!
© Flickr – Fr Lawrence Lew, O.P.
Troon – Dundee – Aberdeen – Royal Deeside
SCOTLAND’S AUTUMN GOLD
& Loch Ness Cruise
& the “Enchanted Forest”
5 Nights From: £765 Jacobite Steam Railway
4 Nights From: £479 Enchanted Forest
Breathtaking Railway journeys capture the contrasting villages of Inverness, Fort William, Aviemore and the Kyle of Lochalsh – Sit back and relax as the dramatic Highland landscapes glide past you.
4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 5 nights half board 4 Single journey on the Strathspey Steam Railway 4 Tour of Glen Grant Whisky Distillery 4 Single train journey from Inverness to the Kyle of Lochalsh 4 Single Journey on the Jacobite Steam Train between Fort William & Mallaig 4 Loch Ness Cruise 8 Not Included: All lunches
Monday Enjoy the ever changing scenery as we journey north to Kingussie. Tuesday We take the short drive to Aviemore where we board the Strathspey Steam train to Broomhill. Next, we journey up the Whisky Trail to Glen Grant whisky distillery where we are treated to a guided tour and a wee dram! Free time in Grantown on Spey before returning via the Highland Heather Centre at Dulnain Bridge. Wednesday We head to Inverness for our train for Kyle of Lochalsh. Our route takes us via Dingwall to Loch Carron. Here, we twist and turn through the tiny loch inlets before reaching Kyle of Lochalsh – the ‘Gateway to the Isle of Skye’. Enjoy fantastic views of the Skye Bridge and the Cuillin Mountain range before rejoining our coach for the scenic drive back to our hotel. Thursday We include reserved seats on the Jacobite Steam Railway for our single journey train ride between Fort William and Mallaig. The journey takes approximately two hours with time available to explore the delightful fishing village of Mallaig. One leg of our journey is by coach, which affords us the opportunity to stop at Glenfinnan for photo opportunities of the Bonnie Prince Charlie Monument, the impressive viaduct and lovely Loch Shiel. Friday To Fort Augustus, a lovely town where the Caledonian Canal meets Loch Ness. Following free time we board our boat for a wonderfully relaxing cruise on Loch Ness with stunning views of Urquhart Castle and possibly Nessie! Saturday After breakfast we commence our journey homewards. Please note: The days on which the included excursions operate may be subject to change. Your Holiday Hotel
Immersed in a palette of breathtaking colours, arguably, Scotland is at its best in the autumn time – deep reds, gold, purple, copper and russets transform the mountain and valley landscapes. Also included is entry into the amazing “Enchanted Forest” – depicting nature’s forces of earth, wind and fire!
4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Entrance to ‘Discovery’ & the Jute Museum at Verdant Works 4 Entrance to Glamis Castle & Gardens 4 Entry to the “Enchanted Forest” & Show 4 Guided tour of Blair Castle 8 Not Included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Monday To Scotland passing Stirling and its mighty castle and into Perthshire “the Big Tree County” – renowned for its magnificent scenery, where we arrive at our hotel in Blairgowrie during the late afternoon. Tuesday This morning we visit Dundee where we discover the cities rejuvenated £1 billion waterfront and include the entrance to Discovery Point and explore Captain’s Scott’s ship ‘Discovery’. Later we visit the award winning Jute Museum at Verdant Works; the rattle and roar of machinery will transport you back over 100 years to the era when jute was king and Dundee was its realm! Wednesday We drive to Glamis Castle & Gardens – the childhood home of the Queen Mother. Tonight, after dinner, we include entry to the award winning ‘The Enchanted Forest’ – Located close to Pitlochry, we experience a sound and light show allowing you the unique opportunity to experience the outdoors at night with spectacular imagery. Thursday After breakfast we visit Pitlochry, followed by a drive out to Loch Tummel and the marvellous Queens View, viewpoint. Next, we include a guided tour of Blair Castle – the ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl. The Castle sits at the hub of a breath-taking historic landscape and the gardens and grounds feature a 9-acre walled garden, a peaceful wooded grove, a ruined kirk, a red deer park and a whimsical Gothic folly. Friday Homeward bound, arriving back during the evening.
Your Holiday Hotel Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie
Angus Hotel, Blairgowrie
With origins in the 18th century the hotel was originally built as a stopover for passengers travelling by stage coach. Restaurant, bar and lounge and nightly entertainment. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality fairly level. Hotel – ramp alternative to steps into the main entrance. Lift to two floors.
Mon 22 – Sat 27 June 2020 Departs 7.30am
/ Look What’s Included
5 Nights Returns 7.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £75 | Holiday Insurance: £29 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
£765
This traditionally styled hotel is located in the centre of the town. Facilities include restaurant, bar, lounge and leisure club with spa bath, steam room, sauna and heated indoor pool. Mobility Grade: 3 – Locality generally level. Hotel: Public areas are level but there are several steps to most bedrooms and in corridors. There is a lift.
Mon 12 – Fri 16 Oct 2020 Departs 7.00am
4 Nights Returns 8.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £50 | Holiday Insurance: £28 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
Travel with Johnsons – Travel with Friends
£479
SCOTLAND
Holiday Itinerary
/ Look What’s Included
© Flickr – Kit Carruthers
ROMANTIC HIGHLAND RAILWAYS
95
THE PALACE HOTEL INVERNESS ‘Diamond All Inclusive’
5 Nights From: £689 Loch Ness
Join us at the Best Western Palace Hotel Inverness on this superb ‘All Inclusive’ break. Dating from the 1890’s, the Hotel combines the best of the past with the contemporary style of the present with elegant interiors, comfortable bedrooms and a superb Leisure Club & Spa. Holiday Itinerary
Sunday We journey north to the Scottish Highlands arriving in Inverness during the early evening. Monday Today we include a cruise on the world-famous Loch Ness. Although forever associated with legend, there is much more to Loch Ness than just the elusive monster! It is Scotland’s largest loch and it is more than 600ft deep for much of its 23 miles length.
SCOTLAND
Your Holiday Hotel
96
©VisitBritain – Britain on View
Inverewe Gardens
Culloden Visitors Centre
© National Trust for Scotland
/ Look What Your ‘Diamond All Inclusive Package Includes 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 5 nights accommodation 4 Welcome cocktail
reception on the first evening
4 Complimentary drinks package
from 7-10 pm each evening
4 Wine with dinner each evening 4 Entertainment programme (2 nights guaranteed) 4 3-course dinners 4 Lunch each day or packed lunch if we are out on excursions 4 Afternoon tea & cream scones each day 4 Buffet breakfasts 4 Free tea/coffee any time of the day 4 Loch Ness Cruise 4 Entrance to Inverewe Gardens (NT) 4 Culloden Battlefield Visitors Centre (NT) 8 Not Included: Lunches on
Tuesday A day at leisure in Inverness, with time to explore the shops, parks and gardens of the Capital of the Highlands. Wednesday Enjoy a full-day tour visiting Loch Maree and Inverewe Days 1 & 6 Gardens (NT). A true example of the rugged scenery of the west coast, Loch Maree lies in the shadow of the towering Ben Slioch and has around 30 isles, which lie like a cluster of jewels strung together to form a treasure of unrivalled beauty. We continue to the world-famous Inverewe Gardens, which boast a stunning location, overlooking Loch Ewe. Thursday We visit the Culloden Battlefield & Visitors Centre (NT), which features a state-of-the-art exhibition bringing the battle alive in an immersion film and accounts from genuine characters involved in the events when the British troops defeated Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Highland clans in 1746. Friday Today we are homeward bound.
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE The Best Western Palace Hotel, Inverness
Sun 12 – Fri 17 April 2020 Sun 25 – Fri 30 Oct 2020 Departs 7.00am
Our hotel nestles on the banks of the River Ness, opposite Inverness Castle and is just a few short steps from Inverness city centre. Restaurant, lounge, bar, swimming pool, steam room & sauna. Mobility Grade: 4 – The resort & hotel are on the level. Hotel has a lift serving all floors.
Lux Tvl Coach
5 Nights
£689
5 Nights
£739
Returns 8.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £110 (Apr) £120 (Oct) | Holiday Insurance: £29 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Discounts available for (NT) National Trust Members
For Friendly Help and Advice Call Us on 01564 797000
SHETLAND The Island of the Vikings
6 Nights From: £1179 Sumburgh Head
Ruggedly handsome and wonderfully secluded – Shetland boasts a landscape quite unlike anywhere else in the world, with huge cliffs, unspoilt coastline and an abundance of wildlife. Here is a ‘once in a lifetime’ chance to holiday on an island quite unlike anywhere else in the UK. Holiday Itinerary
Tuesday Travel to Scotland with an overnight stop in Perth/Dundee Area. Wednesday Departing after breakfast we visit Glamis Castle, the splendid childhood home of Her Majesty the Queen Mother. We continue in the afternoon to Aberdeen where we board the overnight Northlink Ferry sailing to Shetland. Thursday After breakfast we disembark the ferry and meet our local, experienced guide for a tour of the Northern Isles – Yell and Unst. Pause for a photo-stop at Sullom Voe then cross to Yell, with entry to the Old Haa Museum, Burravoe. We cross to Unst with its many beautiful beaches where a light lunch is included before we travel via Skidbladner – a replica Viking Long Ship, before checking into our Hotel around 6.00pm.
Friday Today we enjoy a coastal tour / Look What’s Included towards Sumburgh Head RSPB Reserve, stopping at one of the islands 4 Door to Door service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra finest beaches – Rerwick. View cliff Legroom Coach 4 6 nights half board scenery, golden beaches and seabird 4 Entry to Glamis Castle 4 3 Days colonies. Next we visit Jarlsof local Shetland Guides & entrances to Island attractions shown 4 Light lunch archaeological site and include entry on Day 3 8 Not included: 6 lunches to the Croft Museum. In the afternoon we view the Shetland Ponies before arriving in Scalloway, Shetland’s former capital, where we visit the folklore museum. Saturday Travelling via Voe and Brae, we view the spectacular offshore sea stacks of ‘Drongs’. Entry to the Tangwick Haa Museum is followed by a visit to the Shetland Jewellery Workshop. Free time in Lerwick via the Wormadale Viewpoint, before boarding our overnight evening sailing to Aberdeen. Sunday After breakfast, disembark the ship and take the coastal road south to Dundee with its new popular Waterfront development, before we cross over the Tay Bridge and drive to Stirling for our final night. Monday We commence our journey homeward, arriving home during the evening.
Your Holiday Hotels
All hotels are varied in style and standards, but all rooms offer full-en-suite facilities. Travellers should consider the fact that they will often be in beautiful, yet isolated locations where hotel availability is extremely limited. All have restaurant, bar & lounge. Mobility Grade: 2 – This is a touring holiday and although most of the sightseeing is from the comfort of our coach, there are ferries to board and three different hotels, along with steps and stairs to negotiate. Please note that due to the nature of this holiday, customers with mobility difficulties may be limited in their enjoyment.
Glamis Castle
Tue 18 – Mon 24 Aug 2020 Departs 7.30am
6 Nights Returns 7.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £225 | Holiday Insurance: £30.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour)
We include our own Helpful & Attentive Couriers on all our UK Holidays
£1179
SCOTLAND
Day 1 3-star standard Hotel in Perth/Dundee area. Day 2 & 5 Overnight DBB with Cabin Accommodation – Northlink Line’s MV Hamnavoe, Hrossey and Hjaltland are modern ships carrying 600 passengers with shops, restaurant, bars and a cinema on board. All cabins are 2-berth en-suite. Days 3 & 4 2 nights DBB at the Shetland Hotel, Lerwick. Located overlooking the bay, only a few minutes’ walk from the town centre. Bar and restaurant. Lift to most floors. Day 6 3-star standard hotel in Stirling.
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CELTIC CONNECTIONS Highlights of Scotland, Northern Ireland & Wales NEW TOUR
7 Nights From: £945 Giant’s Causeway
Our exciting new multi-centre holiday offers you a fantastic 8 day touring experience, incorporating the dramatic scenery, historic castles, rich heritage and contrasting landscapes of the Ayrshire Coast, Belfast and North Wales. Holiday Itinerary
Friday We drive north through the Scottish Borders to the Ayrshire Coast, arriving in Irvine, and our base for the next two nights at the Riverside Lodge Hotel. Saturday This morning we make our way to the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, which offers a unique encounter with Scotland’s favourite son. Set in 10 acres of the poet’s cherished countryside, the museum includes the famous Burns Cottage, where the poet was born, the historic landmarks where he set his greatest work, the elegant monument and gardens created in his honour and a modern museum housing the world’s most important collection of his life and works. There is free time for lunch here before we continue to Culzean Castle, one of Scotland’s best loved castles, where we enjoy a guided tour and free time to explore the gardens, deer park and swan pond before returning to our hotel for dinner. Sunday We bid a fond farewell to Scotland and travel to Cairnryan to board our ferry sailing to Belfast, from where we travel to the 4-star Dunadry Hotel & Country Club for our 3 night stay. The hotel is set within the site of an ancient fort within beautiful gardens alongside the Six Mile Water trout river. Monday Today we visit the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Experience, before returning along the spectacular Antrim coast with its vertical cliffs, glens and mountain scenery. (Small separate charge for those requiring to use the Translink Shuttle bus from the Visitors Centre to view the actual Causeway).
CELTIC CONNECTIONS
Your Holiday Hotels
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Days 1 & 2 The Riverside Lodge Hotel, Irvine (3-star) Located on the outskirts of Irvine * 128 bedrooms * Restaurant * Bar * No lift but grooms are on ground or first floor only. Days 3 – 5 The Dunadry House Hotel & Country Club, Dunadry, N. Ireland (4-star) 80 spacious bedrooms * Restaurant * Bar * Indoor swimming pool & leisure facilities * No lift but ground floor rooms available. Rooms on 1st floor are accessed by 22 steps. Days 6 & 7 The Kinmel & Kinspa Hotel, Nr Abergele, N. Wales (4-star) Luxury hotel with restaurant & bar * Indoor swimming pool & leisure club * Lift Mobility Grade: 3 – This is a touring holiday and although most of the sightseeing is from the comfort of our coach, there are ferries to board and three different hotels. Please note that due to the nature of this holiday, customers with mobility difficulties may be limited in their enjoyment.
Tuesday Today we are met by a local / Look What’s Included coach & driver for our excursion to 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own Belfast. Here, we enjoy a half day courier service 4 Club Class Extra ‘step-on’ guided tour of this Legroom Coach 4 7-nights half board fascinating city. Next, we visit Titanic 4 Return Ferry Crossings 4 Outlined Belfast, the world's largest Titanic excursions 4 Robert Burns Birthplace Museum 4 Guided tour of Culzean exhibition. Located in the Titanic Quarter, right beside the historic site of Castle 4 Giants Causeway Visitor Experience 4 Local Coach excursion the world-famous ship’s construction, to Belfast 4 Step-on Guided tour of the exhibition is housed in an iconic Belfast 4 Entrance to Titanic Belfast 4 Guided tour of Malahide Castle & 6 floor building. This state-of-the-art visitor experience tells the story of the Gardens 4 Entrance to Caernarfon Titanic, from her conception in Belfast Castle 8 Not Included: All lunches in the early 1900s, through her construction and launch, to her famous maiden voyage and tragic end. We spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure in the city. Wednesday Departing Northern Ireland, we visit Malahide Castle & Gardens where we enjoy a 45-minute guided tour for an extraordinary glimpse into the life of the castle and the Talbot family who resided there for 800 years! We continue to nearby Dublin Port and board the afternoon sailing to Holyhead, from where we continue to our base for the last two nights at the lovely 4-star Kinmel & Kinspa Hotel set in rolling parkland Caernarfon Castle with views of the beautiful Welsh countryside. Thursday This morning we visit wonderful Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a stunning location on the banks of the River Seiont. In the afternoon we enjoy time at leisure to explore Caernarfon. Friday After breakfast, we make our way home. Fri 7 – Fri 14 August 2020 Departs 7.30am
Lux Tvl Coach
7 Nights
£945
Returns 4.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £180 | Holiday Insurance: £31.50 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Even though passports are not needed to travel to Ireland, ferry companies request passengers to carry some form of PHOTO ID, which may be required for inspection.
We include a No Surcharge Guarantee on all Coach Holidays
JUNE IN BLOOM
CONNEMARA, GALWAY & WESTPORT
NEW TOUR
4 Nights From: £649
Powerscourt Gardens
Our fragrant tour of the “Garden County” of County Wicklow features a hotel within easy reach of Dublin, allowing for a Dublin day trip. We also visit the impressive gardens of Powerscourt and Mount Usher as well as the spectacular valley of Glendalough.
©Powerscourt Estate
In Co Wicklow
NEW TOUR
6 Nights From: £929
Kylemore Abbey
See County Galway, the Connemara National Park and Westport from our base in Clifden. With its spectacular scenery and emerging reputation as the West’s ‘Gourmet Capital’, this is a wonderful base from which to explore
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our Own Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 4 nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 Entrance to the The Mill in Avoca Village 4 Guided tour of Dublin 4 Entrances to Powerscourt House & Gardens & Mount Usher Gardens 8 Not Included: All lunches
Holiday Itinerary
Holiday Itinerary
© Tourism Ireland
Monday We drive north to Holyhead and our ferry to Dublin, arriving at our hotel in time for dinner. Tuesday Today, we travel through Wicklow Mountains National Park, one of Ireland’s most untouched regions, before heading to the spectacular valley of Glendalough. Here, we visit the medieval monastic ruins before calling into the picturesque town of Avoca, the filming location for ‘Ballykissangel’ and home to Avoca Handweavers, Ireland’s Trinity College, Dublin oldest weaving mill. Wednesday A morning guided sightseeing tour of Dublin. Free time for individual sightseeing in the afternoon where we can visit its most famous attractions, including the Guinness Storehouse, National Museum of Ireland, The Book of Kells Exhibition, the National Gallery of Ireland and EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum. We can also enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on Dublin bay or the river Liffey. Thursday This morning, we visit one of Ireland’s most famous tourist attractions, Powerscourt House and Gardens, where we spend time at leisure exploring the beautiful gardens. After lunch, we spend time at Mount Usher Gardens, one of Ireland’s finest, and one of Monty Don’s favourite gardens. Friday Breakfast today is included on board our return sailing to Holyhead then we continue homeward.
4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 6-nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 Guided tour of Westport House Estate 4 Entrance of Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Garden 4 Sheep Herding & Refreshments at Glen Keen Farm 4 Killary Cruise 4 Guided tour of the Celtic Crystal Visitors Centre 8 Not Included: All lunches
Tuesday We drive north to Holyhead and our ferry to Dublin. We continue to Mullingar and our overnight stay at the Bloomfield House Hotel. Wednesday We travel across Ireland, pausing at thriving Galway for time at leisure before making our way to the Renvyle House Hotel, our base for the next 4 nights. Thursday Today we journey north for an included tour of Westport House. Built in 1730, the house boasts original architecture within a superb parkland setting including a lake, terraces, waterfalls and magnificent views of Ireland’s holy mountain, Croagh Patrick. The rest of the day is free to explore the pretty town of Westport, situated on the shores of Clew Bay. Friday After breakfast today we will board the coach and make our way to Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden. The dramatic landscape and iconic image of a gothic castle reflected in a Connemara Lake has made Kylemore Abbey world-famous and it is now the largest tourist attraction in the west of Ireland. Later, we continue to the bustling coastal town of Clifden – often referred to as the ‘Capital of Connemara’. Saturday We travel through the Connemara National Park and witness the dramatic scenery of the Twelve Bens mountain range before arrival at Glen Keen Farm where you will be treated to a sheep herding demonstration, traditional Irish music and refreshments. On then to Killary where we include a delightful cruise along Killary Fjord, enjoying 9 miles of uninterrupted views of some of the finest scenery in the west of Ireland. Sunday Departing Renvyle we enjoy a guided tour of the Celtic Crystal Visitor Centre in Moycullen. Following this visit, head east, checking into the Wilton Hotel, Bray for our overnight stay. Monday Breakfast today is included on board our return sailing to Holyhead then we continue homeward. Your Holiday Hotel The Renvyle House Hotel
The Summerhill House Hotel, Enniskerry The Summerhill House Hotel is situated in a tranquil country house setting, in five acres of attractive grounds on the outskirts of the charming village of Enniskerry, just 45 minutes south of Dublin. The 54 bedrooms are comfortable and spacious, there is an elegant restaurant and a traditional, cosy bar and lounge. Mobility Grade: 3 – Location reasonably level with isolated steps. Good access throughout for those with mobility issues. Lift to most floors.
A romantic 4-star country house hotel located right on the shores of the Wild Atlantic Way, amidst the magical beauty of sea, lakes and mountains. The grounds include a private lake, a beach, woodlands, gardens and on-site activities. Bar/restaurant. Mobility Grade: 3 – Location reasonably level with isolated steps. No lift but rooms are on ground & first floors only.
Mon 15 – Fri 19 June 2020
Departs 7.30am
Departs 7.30am
4 Nights
£649
Returns 6.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £119 | Holiday Insurance: £46 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Even though passports are not needed to travel to Ireland, ferry companies request passengers to carry some form of PHOTO ID, which may be required for inspection.
Tue 7 – Mon 13 July 2020
Lux Tvl Coach
6 Nights
£929
Returns 5.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £156 | Holiday Insurance: £57.50 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Even though passports are not needed to travel to Ireland, ferry companies request passengers to carry some form of PHOTO ID, which may be required for inspection.
For 2020 choose from 120 Different Holiday locations
IRELAND
Your Holiday Hotel
/ Look What’s Included
99
IRELAND’S EMERALD ISLE Adare, Bunratty & Killarney NEW TOUR
6 Nights From: £869 Cliffs of Moher
Holiday Itinerary
Saturday Afternoon ferry crossing from Holyhead to Dublin followed by our overnight stay at the Wilton Hotel, Bray. Sunday We journey south west via Birr Castle, where we can explore the largest formal gardens in Ireland and have the opportunity to view Birr’s famous engineering and astronomical wonder, the 150 year old Great Telescope! Later, we continue via Limerick to what has often been described as Ireland’s prettiest village, Adare and our base for the next four nights at the Fitzgerald’s Woodlands Ladies View House Hotel. Monday A full day excursion to Killarney, stopping first at Ladies View, one of the most impressive viewpoints on the Ring of Kerry, then free time in this delightful town.
Your Holiday Hotel
IRELAND
The Fitzgerald’s Woodland House Hotel
100
Situated in beautiful grounds on the edge of the beautiful village of Adare. The hotel, family owned, has built an enviable reputation due to the excellent facilities and service. Relax in Fitzy’s Bar, enjoy the fine food served in the elegant restaurant and take a dip in the indoor pool, with sauna, Jacuzzi and steam room. Mobility Grade: 3 – Although the hotel does not have a lift, there are many ground floor. However, there are a number of steps throughout the hotel, including a step in the bedrooms.
Tuesday Another full day starting with a visit to the Cliffs of Moher Visitors Experience – A centre that provides superb facilities and panoramic views of the cliffs and Liscannor Bay. After lunch we return to Killimer for the short ferry crossing across the Shannon Estuary to Tarbert before continuing to the The Foynes Flying Boat Museum, which recalls the era from 1939 to 1945 when Foynes was the centre of the aviation world for air traffic between the US and Europe. Wednesday Depart Adare after breakfast for an included visit to the 15th century Bunratty Castle and the collection of cottages and houses which make up the Folk Park within its grounds. The charming ‘living village’ gives a fascinating insight into life in Ireland during the 19th century. Thursday Departing Adare, we enjoy a leisurely one hour cruise on lovely Lough Derg from Killaloe, before continuing to Wexford for our final night at the Talbot Hotel. Friday Breakfast today is included on board our return sailing to Holyhead then we continue homeward. Sat 9 – Fri 15 May 2020 Departs 7.00am
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 6-nights half board 4 Outlined excursions 4 Birr Castle 4 Cliffs of Moher Visitors Experience 4 Foynes Flying Boat Museum 4 Bunratty Castle & Folk Park 4 Lough Derg Cruise 8 Not Included:
All lunches
Lux Tvl Coach
Bunratty Castle
6 Nights
© Flickr – dereibos
A superb hotel near the pretty village of Adare, County Limerick creates a fantastic base for this tour. A wealth of attractions and excursions are available in this area including the famous Ring of Kerry, Bunratty and the spectacular Cliffs of Moher via the River Shannon.
£869
Returns 6.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £145 | Holiday Insurance: £57.50 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Even though passports are not needed to travel to Ireland, ferry companies request passengers to carry some form of PHOTO ID, which may be required for inspection.
Call 01564 797000 or visit www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk
KILLARNEY & THE RING OF KERRY Including a 2 Night Dublin Stay
7 Nights From: £935 Ring of Kerry
Holiday Itinerary
Dublin
Your Holiday Hotel
/ A POPULAR FAVOURITE Killarney Plaza Hotel, Killarney
© Fáilte Ireland
Friday To Holyhead for our crossing to Dublin, then on to the Talbot Hotel, Stillorgan (4-star) for our 2-night stay. Saturday After breakfast we travel into central Dublin where we meet our city guide for a morning tour of Ireland’s great capital. The afternoon is free for individual sightseeing. Sunday Departing our hotel we visit the Irish National Stud at Kildare, home to some of Ireland’s most revered thoroughbreds and the adjacent Japanese Gardens. Later we continue via Adare, Ireland’s ‘prettiest village’, with its delightful thatched cottages before arriving in Killarney for our 4-night stay.
Monday Discover the secrets of the / Look What’s Included Ring of Kerry, as our guided tour 4 Door to Door service 4 Our own takes us via Killorglin; famed for its annual Puck Fair, to Glenbeigh, with its courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 Return Irish Ferry Bog Village. We continue around the crossings 4 7 nights half board Iveragh Peninsula, ascending Peakeen 4 A visit to the Irish National Stud & the Japanese Gardens 4 Guided tours Mountain, around Moll’s Gap and Ladies View before finally descending of Dublin, the ‘Ring of Kerry’ and the Dingle Peninsula 4 A visit to the back into Killarney, along the glittering Queenstown Story 8 Not Included: shores of Lough Leane. All lunches Tuesday A day at leisure. Why not enjoy a scenic lake cruise or a jaunting cart ride? Or you may wish to visit Muckross House. The day is all yours! Wednesday Join us for a guided tour of the stunning Dingle Peninsula. Travelling through ‘Ryan’s Daughter Country’, we’ll see the wild and beautiful natural scenery as we make our way to the fishing village of Dingle. Thursday Departing Killarney, we travel to Cobh, where we visit the Queenstown Story. Here, we can retrace the steps of the 2 ½ million Cobh Irish people who emigrated from Ireland via Cobh on coffin ships, early steamers and finally on the great ocean liners. In fact Cobh was the last port of call for the ill-fated Titanic. Later, we drive to Waterford for our overnight accommodation at the 3-star Dooley’s Hotel. Friday Breakfast today is included on board our return Irish Ferries sailing back to Pembroke where upon arrival we continue homeward. Fri 2 – Fri 9 October 2020 Departs 7.30am
This stylish hotel is in the centre of Killarney, adjacent to the National Park, and offers excellent facilities including restaurant, piano bar and leisure facilities which include an indoor pool, sauna & spa bath. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality: Flat. Hotel: Lift to all floors.
7 Nights
£935
Returns 6.00pm
Supplements Double for Sole Use: £198 | Holiday Insurance: £31.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Even though passports are not needed to travel to Ireland, ferry companies request passengers to carry some form of PHOTO ID, which may be required for inspection.
Over 250 Fantastic Holidays for you to choose from
IRELAND
Experience the rich cultural traditions of the vibrant city of Dublin before travelling across the country to Killarney and the Ring of Kerry – a land of constantly changing colours, magnificent landscapes, rugged mountains, imposing valleys, lush green fields, deep blue lakes and long sandy beaches.
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OUTSTANDING NORTHERN IRELAND
6 Nights From: £899 Titanic Belfast
Northern Ireland’s beauty is intertwined with tragic history & rich culture – the wild craggy mountains, magical lakes & sweeping coastline have remained unspoilt by the passage of time. Holiday Itinerary
Hillsborough Castle
© Flickr – David in Lisburn
Sunday We journey to Holyhead in North Wales for our afternoon sailing to Ireland and continue to our overnight stay at the Trim Castle Hotel, Co Meath (4-star rated). Monday We journey north to Newry. Then following the Mountains of Mourne Coastal Route we drive along the shores of Carlingford Lough to Kilheel. We continue via Downpatrick, the last resting place of St Patrick before arriving at the Stormont Hotel for our 4-night stay.
Tuesday This morning a local coach / Look What’s Included and Belfast City guide meets us at our 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own hotel for a morning guided tour of courier service 4 Club Class Extra Belfast. In the afternoon we visit Legroom Coach 4 Return Sea Titanic Belfast, the world’s largest crossings from Holyhead to Dublin Titanic visitor experience. This iconic 4 6 nights half board 4 Guided Tour of Belfast & entrance to Titanic Belfast six-floor building explores the sights, 4 Entrance to the Giant’s Causeway sounds, smells and stories of the Visitor Experience (NT) 4 Guided tour Titanic, which brings history to life in of Hillsborough Castle with tea/scones an unforgettable way. 8 Not Included: All lunches Wednesday This morning we drive pausing to view the ‘Dark Hedges’, a romantic, atmospheric, tunnel-like avenue of intertwined beech trees, planted in the 18th century. Today they are instantly recognisable to fans of the popular TV series ‘Game of Thrones’, as the Kings Road! We continue to the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Experience, returning along Giant’s Causeway the spectacular Antrim coast with its vertical cliffs, glens and mountain scenery. (Small separate charge for those requiring to use the Translink Shuttle bus from the Visitors Centre to view the Causeway). Thursday Today we visit Hillsborough Castle, one of the most beautiful, and interesting historic properties in Northern Ireland and the official residence of the Royal Family when they are in Northern Ireland. We include a guided tour of this magnificent Georgian Mansion and an opportunity to explore the beautiful gardens. (Our visit includes tea and scones). Friday We return south to Dublin before continuing to our final nights stay at the Talbot Hotel, Stillorgan, Co Dublin (4-star Rated). Saturday Breakfast today is included on board our return Irish Ferries sailing to Holyhead then we continue homeward.
Your Holiday Hotel
IRELAND
Sun 28 June – Sat 4 July 2020 Stormont Hotel, Belfast Located 5 miles from the centre of Belfast, opposite Stormont Parliament Buildings in a leafy, residential area. Bar and lounge. Mobility Grade: 3 – Location & hotel are all reasonably level and accessible. 2 lifts serve 3 floors, however there are limited ground floor rooms available.
102
Departs 7.30am
6 Nights
£899
Returns 5.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £158 | Holiday Insurance: £30.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Even though passports are not needed to travel to Ireland, ferry companies request passengers to carry some form of PHOTO ID, which may be required for inspection.
Johnsons – A family business established for over 110 years
© Tourism Ireland
Belfast, the Antrim Coast & so much more
CONTINENTAL COACH HOLIDAYS and Escorted Air & Cruise Holidays
Brexit Advice for Travellers Page 104
European Coach Holidays Pages 104 – 116
European Air Holidays Pages 117 – 122
European River Cruise Holidays Pages 121 – 122
Ocean Cruise Holidays Pages 123 – 131
Our Resort & Hotel Mobility Grading Each tour has hotel information listed. To help you choose the most suitable holiday for you we have provided a guideline grade in terms of lifts, steps, stairs, hills and general accessibility. The grades range from 1 to 5 and the higher the score the easier the holiday is for mobility.
Accommodation Symbols Our hotels are chosen for their quality, character & location. For easy reference we have introduced a set of symbols so that you can see at a glance exactly what facilities are available. En-suite facilities Hospitality Tray in Room Television Hairdryer Lift
Indoor Pool Seasonal Outdoor Pool
Enjoy the Views – Treasure the Memories
EUROPE
No Lift
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BREXIT: ADVICE FOR TRAVELLERS
THE CHANTILLY FLOWER SHOW Fragrant & Charming
3 Nights From: £539 Chantilly Flower Show
If the Government agrees a deal on or before the 31 October 2019, the UK will then enter a transition period and everything will continue to remain the same and you can continue to travel as you do now. There is still a possibility that the UK could leave the EU at the end of October without a deal. There have been reassurances around flights and visas, these are reflected in the frequently asked questions below. Will my coach journey still operate? Coaches will still be able to travel to and from the EU, and are expected to continue to take passengers to and around EU countries as usual. Will ferries and cruise ships still sail? Ferry services and cruises will still sail as the majority of the rules under which they operate are not based on EU rules, but are international. Will flights still operate? UK citizens can be reassured that regardless of the Brexit outcome planes will still fly between the UK and the EU: if a deal is agreed then we will be in a transition period, meaning everything will stay the same until the end of December 2020 and flights will continue as normal. Even if we are in a no-deal scenario, the European Commission has said that UK airlines will still be able to operate flights between the UK and the EU. Will I need a visa to travel to the EU after Brexit? The European Parliament has confirmed that UK travellers won’t need a visa to travel the EU after Brexit, even if the UK leaves without a deal. UK citizens will be able to visit the EU for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. Passports Check the date your passport expires. If we leave the EU without a deal, the UK government recommends that you have six months left on your passport on the date of your arrival in an EU country.
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European Health Insurance Card and travel insurance The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allows any EU citizen to access state medical care when they are travelling in another EU country. In the event of a no-deal Brexit, UK registered EHICs will no longer be valid. We always advise customers to take out adequate travel insurance and make sure it covers any medical conditions or activities they plan to do.
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Set in the grounds of the / Look What’s Included spectacular Château de 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our Own Chantilly, this wonderful flower Courier Service 4 Club Class Extra show will be celebrating its 30th Legroom Coach 4 Return Eurotunnel year in 2020. Bringing together Crossings 4 3 nights Bed & Breakfast 4 Entrance to the Chantilly Flower 200 exhibitors – nurseries, Show & Chateaux 4 Guided tour of horticulturists and professionals Paris 8 Not included: All lunches & dinners from the plant trade – “Les Journées des Plantes” offers visitors the opportunity to purchase plants, flowers and shrubs as well as gaining advice on garden maintenance. Visitors can also participate in workshops and attend conferences on specific subjects, from orchids and carnivorous plants to perennials, making this a truly fascinating and unique experience that will delight gardening enthusiasts! Holiday Itinerary
Friday We join our Eurotunnel crossing to Calais, then continue on to our hotel for our 3-night stay. Saturday After breakfast, we depart for a full day at the Chantilly Flower Show. Here we can admire the floral exhibits, chat to the experts and load our purchases onto our coach to take home with us (subject of course to import regulations). A range of plants are sold, from orchids to perennials, trees and shrubs as well as garden equipment and accessories. The show takes place in the stunning grounds of Château de Chantilly, one of the finest historical monuments in France. Also, visit the Château where we can admire the fine collection of paintings and enjoy the facilities which include a restaurant and shop. Sunday A full day’s visit to Paris including a morning guided tour of the city’s most famous sites including the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Champs Elysees and Place de la Concorde. Monday After breakfast we leave and begin our homeward journey. Your Holiday Hotel Crowne Plaza Paris Neuilly Located in a quiet, residential area within Neuillysur-Seine, close to the centre of Paris. Tea/coffee in rooms. Bar, lounge, terrace and restaurant. Good selection of local cafes and restaurants within a short walk. Lift access.
Fri 15 – Mon 18 May 2020 Departs 5.30am
3 Nights Returns 9.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £165 | Holiday Insurance: £39.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Passports are required for this tour
For Friendly Help and Advice Call Us on 01564 797000
£539
Christophe Tannière : @ctanierephotographie
NEW TOUR
VERSAILLES, CANDELIT CHATEAUX
4 Nights From: £699 Château de Versailles
Holiday Itinerary
Thursday To Folkestone for our Eurotunnel crossing to France. We continue to Paris and our 4-night stay at the Novotel Saclay.
Monet’s Garden
Your Holiday Hotel Novotel Saclay, Saclay, South West Paris This modern hotel has been built around a renovated farmhouse and courtyard and is located in the countryside south of Paris. 139 bedrooms, restaurant, lounge/bar. Outdoor pool & large terrace area. Mobility Grade: 4 – Stepped entrance with ramp access. Good access through. Ground floor rooms available. Lift available.
Friday Today we visit the Chateau / Look What’s Included and gardens of Versailles which are 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own among the most illustrious of World Heritage Sites. Built by the “Sun King”, courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 Welcome Drink Louis XIV, the Chateau contains a upon arrival 4 4 nights half board (Set magnificent collection of fine furniture meal on first night then three nights with buffet menu choice – Note lunch and artworks. We include a guided tour of the interior where you’ll witness replaces dinner on Day 3) 4 Return Eurotunnel Crossings 4 Outlined the awe-inspiring Hall of Mirrors. excursions 4 Guided tour of Versailles Stroll at leisure through the stunning 4 Candlelit visit to Chateau de Vauxle-Vicomte 4 Entrance to Monet’s formal gardens. During the summer Gardens, Giverny 8 Not Included: 4 months, visitors can also witness the lunches & 1 evening meal magical Musical Fountains Show and explore the fountains and groves with their water features spouting to the rhythm of the music. Saturday A morning at leisure where we enjoy lunch at our hotel before boarding our coach to visit another beautiful chateau. Chateau de Vaux-leVicomte is a 17th century, privately owned masterpiece that has been restored to its former glory with richly furnished and decorated rooms and wonderful formal grounds. To add a touch of ‘romance’, this evenings visit, will be via candlelight, where the breathtaking gardens and Chateau will be illuminated by over 2000 candles creating a unique and memorable experience. Sunday A lunchtime entrance to the lovingly restored Monet’s Garden at Giverny – It is a source of as much pleasure today as it was to its creator. Here, where the painter lived until his death in 1929, the perspectives, symmetries and colours of the flower garden and water garden were the inspiration for some of his most famous works. Monday We return to Calais for the Eurotunnel crossing to Folkestone, returning home during the evening. Thu 16 – Mon 20 July 2020 Departs 5.30am
4 Nights Returns 9.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £134 | Holiday Insurance: £46 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Passports are required for this tour
With our bond in place – Your money is safe
£699
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Think of France and you think of Paris but venture a little bit further afield and you will find a host of fantastic experiences and sumptuous Chateaux just waiting to be discovered. This tour allows a visit to two of the most stunning Chateaux in France; the world-famous Chateau de Versailles and the impressive Chateau de Vaux-le- Vicomte which provided a credible double as the film set for the BBC’s headline drama series, “Versailles”.
© Flickr Herbert Frank
& Monet’s Garden
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FLANDERS
3 Nights From: £549 Menin Gate
Holiday Itinerary
© Flickr – VISITFLANDERS
Tuesday We cross the channel to France, continuing to our Hotel in Ypres for our 3-night stay. Wednesday A morning tour of the Ypres Salient which includes visits to Tyne Cot, the largest British War Cemetery in the world. Then travelling via Vancouver Corner where we see the impressive ‘Brooding Soldier’ Memorial we reach the German Cemetery at Langemark before continuing to Essex Farm CWGC, where John McCrae wrote the immortal ‘In Flanders Field’ poem. Free time in Ypres in the afternoon with an opportunity to visit the Flanders Field Museum (not included) and the Menin Gate. In the evening we are free to attend the Last Post Ceremony, which takes place only a short walk from our hotel.
Your Holiday Hotel Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery
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Novotel Leper Centrum, Ypres A 3-star superior hotel with a premier location in the centre of Ypres, a short walk from the main square, Cloth Hall and Menin Gate. Bar, restaurant & terrace. Mobility Grade: 4 – Location & hotel are generally level. The Hotel has a lift.
Tue 7 –Fri 10 April 2020 Departs 6.00am
3 Nights
£549
Returns 10.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £145 | Holiday Insurance: £39.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Passports are required for this tour
106 Insurance Premium Prices FROZEN – All Holiday Insurance Prices held at last year’s rates!
© Flickr – VISITFLANDERS
Thursday This morning we visit / Look What’s Included Arras where we explore the amazing 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own Carriere Wellington underground courier service 4 Escorted throughout Tunnels. Free time for lunch in the by a Professional Battlefields Tour town centre before visiting the Guide 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Faubourg d’Amiens British Cemetery Coach 4 Return ferry crossing from Dover/Calais 4 3 nights bed & hot & Memorial. Next, we continue to Flesquieres, near Cambrai, where we buffet breakfast 4 Outlined excursions 4 Entrances to the Wellington Quarry, discover “Deborah”, a Mk4 Female the Cambrai Tank Museum & Talbot tank at the Cambrai Tank Museum, House 8 Not Included: All lunches & followed by a short tour of the Cambrai dinners, Porterage at our Hotel Battlefield site. Friday Departing Ypres after breakfast we visit the town of Poperinge, home to Talbot House (Toc H or Everyman’s Club), the Town Hall Cells and the spine chilling ‘Execution Post’. Then travelling via Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery and Visitor Centre, site of the largest evacuation hospital along the Ypres Salient. We return to Calais and our return sailing home.
We are pleased to once again feature this nostalgic four day break visiting some of the most important battlefields of World War One where we tread in the footsteps of the brave and visit some moving and memorable sites. Our tour is based in Ypres, perhaps the war’s most infamous site.
In Flanders Fields Museum
© Flickr – VISITFLANDERS
& The Western Front
BRUSSELS CARPET OF FLOWERS Ghent & Bruges NEW TOUR
3 Nights From: £569 Carpet of Flowers
The Brussels Flower Carpet is a special event that takes place once every two years in Brussels, where the Grand Place Square is transformed into a mass of colour. The flowering star of the Brussels Flower Carpet is the begonia and 300 of these beautiful flowers are used for every square metre of this floral masterpiece. Belgium is one of the lead producers of the begonia cultivating 60 million every year and this is why it is the flower of choice for the Brussels Flower Carpet. Holiday Itinerary
Thursday We drive to Folkestone for our Eurotunnel crossing to Calais. We continue through France into Belgium arriving at the Thon Hotel, Brussels for our 3-night stay. Friday This morning, we enjoy the ‘Carpet of Flowers’ in the Grand Place. Every two years the Belgians cover it with a huge flower display – nearly one million fresh begonias. The famous Flower Carpet covers 19,000 square feet and is a stunning sight in the August sunshine. We include entrance to the Town Hall balcony, so you can get an even better, panoramic view of this memorable sight. Afternoon at leisure in Brussels.
Saturday Today we enjoy an included morning visit to Ghent. Affectionately known as the ‘Flower Capital of Belgium’, Ghent is a city of great elegance, boasting a wonderful legacy of medieval architecture and imposing monuments. What better way to start our day than with a leisurely guided boat cruise taking in the heart of the medieval centre viewing such sites as St Bravo’s Cathedral, the Belfry and St Nicholas’ Church and the impressive Castle of the Counts’ and the Princes’ court. In the afternoon there’s some free time to explore this charming city. Sunday Departing Brussels, we visit the beautiful medieval city of Bruges, with many fine old buildings, often referred to as the ‘Venice of the North’. By the Burg main square, traditions are still alive with lace shops and market stalls, surrounded by picturesque medieval buildings with pretty gables. The more energetic can tackle the 370 steps of the 13th century Belfry of Bruges! Enjoy some free time or take a canal trip or visit the chocolate museum, before we return home during the late evening.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 Return Eurotunnel Crossings 4 3 nights bed & buffet breakfast plus 3-course buffet dinners 4 Welcome drink (Tap Beer, wine or soft drink) 4 Tea/coffee after dinners 4 Entrance to Brussels City Hall to view Carpet of Flowers 4 Ghent Canal Cruise 8 Not Included: All lunches
Ghent Bruges
Your Holiday Hotel Thu 13 – Sun 16 Aug 2020 Departs 5.30am Set in the heart of Brussels’ European District, the hotel is a 10-minute stroll away via the pedestrian street La Rue Neuve which is lined with shops, cafés and restaurants. Mobility Grade: 4 – Easy access for all. The Hotel has a lift.
3 Nights Returns 9.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £150 (All Singles are Doubles for sole use) Holiday Insurance: £39.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Passports will be required for this tour
Sightseeing Excursions are Included in the Price – On All Holidays!
£569
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Thon Hotel, Brussels
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THE BULBFIELDS OF HOLLAND
4 Nights From: £629 Keukenhof Gardens
Situated in Lisse, Keukenhof is the most outstanding spring attraction of the Netherlands. A riot of colour, no experience can match this spectacular and unforgettable display, with some six million tulips, narcissi, daffodils, hyacinths, shrubs, ponds & fountains. Holiday Itinerary
Thursday To Dover for the ferry to Calais then across Belgium and into Holland, arriving at our hotel in time for dinner. Friday Today we travel to award-winning Keukenhof Gardens, showpiece of the Dutch bulb industry with some 80 acres of colourful floral displays. In the afternoon, there is free time to explore or maybe take a ride on one of the ‘whisper boats’, which are almost silent as they sail through the beautiful bulb landscape.
Saturday A full day to explore the / Look What’s Included unique city of Amsterdam with its 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own famous tree-lined canals and preserved 17th century gabled houses. courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 Return Dover to We include a 1-hour canal cruise, Calais ferry crossing 4 4-nights dinner, followed by some free leisure time bed & buffet breakfast 4 Outlined excursions 4 Admission to Keukenhof to explore this fascinating city. Gardens 4 Amsterdam Canal Cruise Sunday Today we take a fascinating 8 Not Included: All lunches visit through the colourful windmills of Zaanse Schans. Zaanse Schans is full of traditional green timbered houses and warehouse which perfectly embody the picture-perfect landscape for which Holland is known. This is a free admission where we can discover local specialities including a cheese farm, wooden shoe workshops, pewter foundry and a bakery museum. (Other attractions may include a separate admission which is down to the individual’s discretion and payable direct on the day). Also, there is time to discover the delightful coastal resort of Volendam. Monday Leaving our hotel we make our way back to Calais and our ferry to Dover and home.
Zaanse Schans Amsterdam
Your Holiday Hotel
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Van der Valk Hotel, Leusden Situated on the foothills of the Utrecht Hill Ridge in the green heart of Holland, between Amersfoort and Utrecht. All rooms equipped with modern facilities. Restaurant, grand café, large terrace. Solarium and souvenir shop. Mobility Grade: 4 – Location is level. Hotel is level and has a lift to all floors.
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Thu 16 – Mon 20 April 2020
4 Nights
£629
Thu 30 April – Mon 4 May 2020
4 Nights
£635
Departs 5.30am
Returns 9.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £Nil | Holiday Insurance: £46 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Passports are required for this tour
Travel with Johnsons – Travel with Friends
A TASTE OF OLD HOLLAND
© Flickr – Frans Berkelaar
NEW TOUR
4 Nights From: £759
Holiday Itinerary
Monday To Dover for our P&O ferry crossing to Calais. We continue through France and Belgium, arriving at the Hotel de Hoeve van Nunspeet for our 4-night stay. Tuesday This morning we head north and cross the N302, a 27km bridge over the Houtribdijk dam offering fabulous water views. On arrival in Enkhuizen, we embark on a cruise along the coast of Lake Ijsselmeer, one of the largest, inland freshwater lakes in Holland whilst enjoying a cup of tea/ coffee and piece of traditional apple pie. We arrive in Medemblik where we have time to explore the beautiful, historic city and its harbour. We enjoy our packed lunch before boarding a 1-way journey on a steam train. We experience a story from a different era as we trundle through historical pretty villages and the Dutch countryside in an old-fashioned steamer. We arrive in Hoorn where we have time to visit Hoorn Museum before we begin our journey back to the hotel. Wednesday We start our journey with a visit to the Netherlands Open Air Museum with over 80 historic houses, farmhouses and mills, where we enjoy a 1 hour guided tour. Our tour really brings the history and the culture of the Netherlands to life. This afternoon we visit the beautiful gardens of the Dutch Baroque 17th century Palace Het Loo, the former Royal Residence of the
Your Holiday Hotel Hotel de Hoeve van Nunspeet, Nunspeet, Holland Located in the middle of the beautiful Veluwe nature area, the Hotel de Hoeve is positioned in a rural location with 20-minute walk (or free train journey) to the town. All 85 bedrooms are very well arranged, spacious in size, homely in style and equipped with a TV and hairdryer. The fantastic big public areas include a lovely large restaurant area with big windows, a traditional Irish pub and a second bar area with tables and chairs. There is also an outside terrace around the hotel. Leisure facilities include a small indoor swimming pool and sauna. Mobility Grade: 4 – Easy access for all. The Hotel has a lift.
Dutch Royal family. We enjoy a guided / Look What’s Included tour of the gardens and stables. 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own Thursday This morning we are met courier service 4 Luxury Traveller by our local costumed guide at the Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & authentic fishers’ island of Marken, legroom (See page??) 4 Fully reclining known for its colourful traditional seats with calf supports 4 Complimentary on board hot and clothing and monumental houses. cold drinks 4 Free Wi-Fi and USB We visit the Wooden Shoe Factory charging points 4 Return Dover/Calais and learn how they make clogs with Ferry Crossings 4 4 nights dinner, bed an opportunity to try a pair yourself! & breakfast (Dinners are 3-course buffet style) Enkhuizen cruise to After a short walk we have a warm Medemblik with refreshments lunch in a traditional harbour 4 Packed lunch 4 Steam Train ride to restaurant. After lunch we board the Hoorn & entrance to the Hoorn Volendam Marken Express ferry Museum 4 Netherlands Open Air service to the picture postcard fishing Museum with guided tour 4 Entrance to Het Loo Palace with guided tour of village of Volendam. Here we begin gardens & stables 4 Guided tours of with a guided walking tour through Marken & Volendam with visits to a the harbour and past traditional houses Cheese Factory, Wooden Shoe Factory and cottages. We stop at the Cheese & Bakery including a warm lunch 8 Not Included: 3 other lunches Factory where we enter the World of Dutch Cheese! Here we discover the art of cheese making and taste several types of cheese. We continue our walking tour with a stop at Woltjes Backerij where we have a demonstration on how stroopwafels (syrup waffles) are made followed by Volendam Cheese Making a tasting! After some free time to explore the village we return to our hotel for dinner. Friday After breakfast we commence our journey homewards, arriving during the late evening. Mon 6 – Fri 10 July 2020 Departs 5.30am
Lux Tvl Coach
4 Nights
£759
Returns 9.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £116 | Holiday Insurance: 46 This departure includes the £5 per person per day ‘Luxury Traveller’ Coach supplement. (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Passports are required for this tour
Johnsons – A Family business for over 110 years!
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Crisscrossed with canals, the flat landscape is perfect for exploring the historic town centres, classic windmills and other must-see locations that are sprinkled across Holland. A truly spectacular destination filled with traditional experiences that offers something for everyone.
© Flickr – Agencia de Viajes Turansa
Palace Het Loo
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THE RHINE & MOSELLE Boppard, Rudesheim, Limburg & Cochem
5 Nights From: £869 Loreley Rock
Our comfortable hotel is the perfect base for our varied itinerary. We include a visit to the picturesque town of Cochem, a relaxing cruise on the Rhine from Rudesheim to Boppard and an interesting wine tasting demonstration. Holiday Itinerary
Saturday We travel to Dover to join our ferry to Calais, then through Belgium and over the border into Germany to reach Boppard. We enjoy a welcome drink, dinner and a film on the Rhine. Sunday A morning at leisure in Boppard, followed by an afternoon Cruise to Koblenz – Situated at the famous ‘Deutsches Eck’ where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet, Koblenz is considered one of the most picturesque cities in Germany. Free time to explore before boarding our coach back to our hotel. Monday Today we visit Limburg an Der Lahn – a beautiful city with half-timbered Cochem houses embellished with carvings and sculptures. We then make our way to the picturesque town of Wiesbaden. See this historic city with its many renovated Imperial buildings. Wander the narrow streets in the historic old town, see the Kurhaus and Town Hall and marvel at the Cuckoo Clock.
Tuesday A scenic excursion through / Look What’s Included the spectacular Rhine Gorge, past the 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own famous Loreley Rock to Rudesheim, courier service 4 Club Class Extra with its crooked narrow streets and Legroom Coach 4 Return Dover to half-timbered houses. Here we include Calais ferry crossing 4 5-nights a visit to the popular Adolf Stortzel dinner, bed & buffet breakfast 4 3-course regional ‘fixed’ dinner on winery. Wine tasting is included first night 4 Outlined excursions together with a special memento of 4 River Cruise to Koblenz 4 Wine your visit Tasting with Memento Gift 8 Not Wednesday We visit the historic town Included: All lunches of Cochem, in the most romantic part of the Moselle Valley, where the river curves between two hiking paradises – Eifel and Hunsrück. There is free time to explore; perhaps visit the fairytale neo-gothic castle Thursday Leaving Boppard, we journey back to Calais and join the ferry for Dover and home.
Your Holiday Hotel
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Bellevue Rhinehotel, Boppard This elegant, 4-star ‘superior’ hotel is beautifully decorated in a ‘Belle Époque’ style and is situated on the main riverside promenade, only a stone’s throw from the centre of the town. The 93 bedrooms are bright and elegant and each is equipped with TV and hairdryer. During their stay, guests can relax in the hotel’s bar or admire the stunning view of the river through the windows of the wood-panelled restaurant. The hotel also has a sauna, steam bath and ‘Romanesque’ styled indoor swimming pool. • Lift • Bar • Restaurant • Tea/coffee in room • Leisure facilities. Mobility Grading: 3 – Locality – fairly flat. Hotel has a lift to all floors, few steps to hotel entrance.
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Koblenz
Sat 18 – Thu 23 July 2020 Departs 5.30am
5 Nights Returns 9.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £98 | Holiday Insurance: £48 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Passports are required for this tour
Call 01564 797000 or visit www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk
£869
BLACK FOREST RAIL & SAIL
NEW TOUR
7 Nights From: £1079 Titisee
Your Holiday Hotel Schwarzwald Hotel, Gengenbach A 4-star hotel located close to the River Kinzig, near the town centre. It has a bar, restaurant, terrace and indoor swimming pool. Rooms are well appointed, bright and comfortable. • 59 rooms • Lift • Indoor swimming pool • Terrace. Mobility Grading: 4 – Locality – fairly flat. Hotel has a lift to all floors, few steps to hotel entrance.
© Flickr – hawaratogo
Thursday We drive to Dover for our channel crossing to France and continue to our overnight at the Mercure Hotel Forbach Centre. Friday We continue on through the Alsace, pausing at beautiful Strasbourg with its timbered buildings adorned with colourful flowers. Discover Strasbourg Cathedral with its intricate interior carvings which are simply captivating! Later, we cross into Germany, arriving at Pig Tail Steam Railway Gengenbach for our 5-night stay. Saturday A day to relax and explore. See the River Kinzig and the old town with its half-timbered houses and romantic narrow streets and alleyways. Before dinner we include a tasting at Gengenbach Winery, approximately 5 minute’s walk from the hotel. Sunday We travel to the old walled town of Villingen and join the Black Forest Railway for a journey including loops, tunnels and a high viaduct. On then for a guided visit to the Black Forest Open Air Museum to find out more about the history and culture of the region.
© Flickr – Stephanie Kroos
Holiday Itinerary
Monday Today we visit beautiful / Look What’s Included Titisee for an included sightseeing cruise on the lake. We then include a 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra trip on the Pig Tail Steam Railway Legroom Coach 4 Return Dover to between Blumberg and Weizen. Calais ferry crossing 4 7-nights dinner, It features many twists and turns and bed & breakfast 4 A ride on the Black Forest Railway & a Guided Visit of the great photo opportunities Black Forest Open Air Museum Tuesday We drive to Triberg, which 4 Titisee Lake Cruise & the ‘Pig Tail’ houses the largest cuckoo clock in Steam Railway 4 Entrance to the the world and is home to Germany’s Schwarzwaldmuseum 8 Not Included: All lunches highest waterfalls. We visit the Schwarzwaldmuseum – a fascinating museum which demonstrates the culture and working life of the Black Forest community from the past to the present day, including traditional costumes, local crafts, ceramics, wood carvings and Europe’s largest collection of barrel organs. We then journey on to Freiburg, a medieval city overlooked by castle ruins and where you will find the famous ‘Red Bear’. Wednesday We leave the Black Forest and head to the historical spa-town of Baden-Baden. This beautiful city boasts a relaxed atmosphere and a sea of greenery in its parks and gardens. Later, we continue to Forbach for our final nights stay. Thursday After a leisurely breakfast we return to Calais for our ferry to Dover then its homeward bound.
Black Forest Open Air Museum
Thu 27 Aug – Thu 3 Sept 2020 Departs 5.30am
7 Nights Returns 9.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £146 | Holiday Insurance: £57.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Passports are required for this tour
Free Door to Door Home Pick-Up Service on All Holidays
£1079
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The Schwarzwald Hotel is found in the little town of Gengenbach, surrounded by the rolling hills of the Black Forest. See lush meadows, pine clad hills, rushing rivers and traditional chocolate box villages. This is the land where houses have long sloping roofs and where workshops specialise in intricate carvings and cuckoo clocks. Our tour features 2 included scenic train journeys and a boat trip on Lake Titisee.
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SWISS ALPS & The Golden Pass Express
NEW TOUR
© Goldenpass
8 Nights From: £1340
A two centre Classic Switzerland tour combining 4 nights in Villars, with its glorious setting above the Rhône Valley, with 2 nights in a glorious setting near Lake Lucerne. To connect these outstanding locations we include a rail journey in a panoramic carriage on the Golden Pass Line, travelling from the Mediterranean ambiance of Montreux through fairy tale landscapes and into the Alps. Holiday Itinerary
Tuesday We drive to Dover for our channel crossing to France and continue Montreux to our overnight at the Mercure Hotel Forbach Centre. Wednesday Departing our hotel we visit Colmar, the capital of Central Alsace – a city rich with more than one thousand years of history which has astonishingly remained unaffected by the passage of time. Later, we continue to Villars for our 4-night stay. Thursday A full day at leisure in Villars. We include a Villars Access Card for each guest, allowing free use of the local trains, coaches, gondola lifts and more. Your Holiday Hotels
Eurotel Victoria, Villars The Eurotel Victoria has a great location close to the centre of Villars. Bedrooms are comfortable and the hotel has a terrace and indoor swimming pool. • 4-star • 167 bedrooms • Lift • Indoor swimming pool and leisure area
Friday Today, we visit stylish Evian. / Look What’s Included This beautiful French Alpine town is 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own famous for the “Evian Natural Mineral Water” bottling plant, the “Pré Curieux courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 Return Dover to Water Gardens” and The “Musical Calais ferry crossing 4 8-nights Fountain”. dinner, bed & breakfast 4 Villars Access Card 4 Geneva Lake Cruise Saturday We start the day by 4 Golden Pass Panoramic train travelling to Lausanne with time to 4 Guided tour of Lucerne 8 Not explore the attractive Ouchy Harbour Included: All lunches area before joining a lake cruise to Montreux where we re-join our coach for the return to our hotel. Sunday Leaving Villars we board the Golden Pass Panoramic Train. Departing from the Mediterranean ambiance of Montreux we wind our way through fairytale landscapes passing alpine forests, bubbling mountain springs and picturesque mountain villages to Zweisimmen. Here we rejoin our coach and travel through the Bernese Oberland and over the Brunig Pass, before checking in to the Hotel Paxmontana for a 2 night stay. Pré Curieux Water Gardens Monday A full day to Lucerne City with its beautiful old town, Lion Monument and ‘Chapel Bridge’. We include a guided walking tour followed by an afternoon at leisure. Tuesday Departing the Paxmontana Hotel we pause in Strasbourg with its beautiful Cathedral and timbered buildings adorned with colourful flowers, before we reach Forbach for our final nights stay. Wednesday After a leisurely breakfast we return to Calais for our ferry to Dover then its homeward bound.
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Hotel Paxmontana, Flüeli-Ranft
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The Paxmontana is well placed for exploring Lucerne and the Bernese Oberland. Its distinctive style and dramatic location never fail to impress. Guest bedrooms are simple yet charming and all with balcony. • 3-star superior • 83 bedrooms • Lift * • Gardens, terrace and panoramic views
Tue 23 June – Wed 1 July 2020 Departs 5.30am
8 Nights Returns 9.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £163 | Holiday Insurance: £59.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Passports are required for this tour
For Friendly Help and Advice Call Us on 01564 797000
£1340
© Savoie Mont Blanc Tourism
Golden Pass Panoramic Train
LAKE LUCERNE & The Glacier Express
© Flickr – Kurbelwelle
7 Nights From: £1135 Seelisberg
Holiday Itinerary
Monday Eurotunnel crossing to Calais, we then head to the Mercure Hotel Reims Park des Expositions for our overnight stay. Tuesday We continue south into Switzerland, arriving at the Bellevue Hotel, Seelisberg for our 5-night stay. Wednesday We travel by coach to Lucerne Andermatt, where we board the Glacier Express for a memorable scenic ride over the Oberalp pass to Chur. Undoubtedly Switzerland’s best-known train, we traverse through aweinspiring and wildly romantic valleys passing immense glaciers and deep gorges, all observed from panoramic windows. Thursday A day at leisure in Seelisberg. Just a short walk from the hotel is the Aschwanden Cheese Factory, where you can watch the traditional production of Seelisberger cheese, made with milk from 15 local farms. Also, by taking the funicular railway down to the Treib landing station, pleasure cruises on Lake Lucerne are available.
Friday Join our included excursion, / Look What’s Included as we enjoy superb lakeland scenery 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own along the shores of Lake Brienz. courier service 4 Club Class Extra In the afternoon we visit Interlaken, Legroom Coach 4 Return Eurotunnel situated between the lakes of Thun crossings to France 4 7 nights Dinner, and Brienz and at the foot of the bed & breakfast, Overnight hotels in Reims & Metz 4 Nightly menu choice famous trio of peaks: the Eiger, in Seelisberg with one Folklore Mönch and the Jungfrau. evening 4 Reserved seating on the Saturday After breakfast we head Glacier Express 8 Not Included: All along the banks of Lake Lucerne, lunches visiting Lucerne, the gateway to central Switzerland, set on the lake itself, surrounded by an impressive mountainous panorama. Historic houses decorated with frescoes line the picturesque town squares as they do the ‘Weinmarkt’ square in the car-free old town. Sunday Departing our hotel we journey north to the Novotel, Amneville, near Metz for our overnight stay. Monday To Calais and our Eurotunnel crossing to Folkestone then its homeward bound.
Your Holiday Hotel Bellevue Hotel, Seelisberg, Switzerland The rustic and cosy Bellevue Hotel offers one of the most beautiful views of the Urner Lake (Part of Lake Lucerne) and the surrounding mountains. The small village of Seelisberg lies in a quiet and sunny area above the lake. The facilities here include restaurant, a warm welcoming bar, gym & sauna. All 60 bedrooms are en-suite and have TV & hairdryer. There is a lift to all floors.
Mon 11 – Mon 18 May 2020 Departs 5.30am
7 Nights Returns 9.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £185 | Holiday Insurance: £57.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Passports are required for this tour
Enjoy the Views – Treasure the Memories
£1135
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Glacier Express
© Foto MGBahn
Take a magical Alpine rail journey to the ‘roof of the world’ as we experience the glorious vistas that change at every twist and turn on Switzerland’s most famous mountain railway. Discover a land of Snow-capped mountain peaks and majestic glaciers with gushing waterfalls and deep blue lakes. We also enjoy a romantic slice of Switzerland by bringing you the best of Lucerne, Brienz and Interlaken.
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THE AUSTRIAN TYROL & Majestic Mayrhofen
7 Nights From: £1099 Mayrhofen
The Tyrol regions stunning scenery, waterfalls and majestic snowcapped peaks are legendary. The area offers a wide variety of attractions to discover including a journey on the oldest steam cog railway in Europe, a relaxing cruise and a visit to the Tyrolean capital: Innsbruck. Holiday Itinerary
Achenseebahn Cog Railway
Your Holiday Hotel
© Achensee Tourismus
Saturday Crossing the channel, we head to the Novotel Amneville, near Metz, for our overnight stay Sunday Travelling into Germany we pass Munich before arriving at our hotel in Mayrhofen for our 5-night stay. Monday A day at leisure to relax in your scenic surroundings at your own pace.
Tuesday Today visit Innsbruck, the / Look What’s Included capital of the Tyrol surrounded by the high Alps and divided by the Inn River. 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra The Old Town is magnificent with Legroom Coach 4 Return ferry highlights such as the famous Golden crossing from Dover/Calais 4 2 nights Roof, the Maria Theresia Street, the Half Board at the Novotel Amneville, Nr Metz 4 5 nights Half Board at the Wilten Basilica and St James Cathedral. Our guided tour introduces Neue Post Hotel, Mayrhofen 4 Guided tour of Innsbruck 4 Achenseebahn you to the city before enjoying free Cog Railway & Achen Lake Cruise time at leisure. 4 Tour of the Kisslinger Glass Showrooms 8 Not Included All Wednesday To the Inn Valley this lunches morning and to Jenbach to board the original Achenseebahn Cog Railway, dating back to 1889. The train winds its way through the valley to the shores of Lake Achen. We then board our coach for the short journey to the lakeside resort of Pertisau and enjoy free time for lunch. Later, we board our boat for a scenic one-way cruise to the north of the lake before returning to our hotel. Thursday Today visit Rattenberg, the oldest and smallest town in the Tyrol, known today as the Tyrolean home of glass and crystal. We include a guided tour of the Kisslinger Glass Showroom to see the artisans at work before we continue on a circular tour Innsbruck of the Kitzbühel Alps pausing at the famous ski resort of Kitzbühel Friday After breakfast we commence our journey home travelling through to northern France for our overnight stay. Saturday To Calais and homeward bound.
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Neue Post Hotel, Mayrhofen A traditional 4-star Austrian Hotel situated in the centre of Mayrhofen. Facilities include a restaurant, café, lounge areas, roof-top terrace, fitness centre, indoor swimming pool and bar with regular live music and dancing. All 100 bedrooms have private facilities, radio, telephone and are served by a passenger lift.
Sat 5 – Sat 12 Sept 2020 Departs 5.30am
7 Nights
£1099
Returns 9.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £55 | Holiday Insurance: £57.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Passports are required for this tour
114 Insurance Premium Prices FROZEN – All Holiday Insurance Prices held at last year’s rates!
ANDRÈ RIEU IN VIENNA Austrian Highlights & Prague
10 Nights From: £1869
André Rieu is quite simply a musical phenomenon like no other, having sold a massive 40 million CDs and DVDs and notched 30 number 1 chart positions worldwide. Along with his 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra, André has created a global revival in waltz music, staging spectacular extravaganzas which are second to none. Holiday Itinerary
Wednesday Dover/Calais ferry crossing to France then on to our hotel in Koeln-Bruehl for dinner and our overnight stay. Thursday We continue into Germany, arriving in Regensburg for dinner and our overnight. Friday Our journey continues into Austria through the Wachau Valley, where the Danube River makes its way towards Vienna. We pause at sleepy Melk, with its glorious Abbey, before arriving at Stockerau, near Vienna for our 4-night stay. Saturday A leisurely morning in our new surroundings. Lunch replaces dinner today, then we drive to Schonbrunn Palace. Soak up Austrian culture on a self-guided audio tour of the Palace’s ornate staterooms and guest apartments which are filled with magnificent chandeliers, beautiful ceiling frescoes and lashings of gold decoration. We continue to the Vienna Stadhalle for an unforgettable evening with Andrè Rieu and the Johann Strauss Orchestra. Your Holiday Hotels
City Hotel Stockerau, Nr Vienna (4-star) The City Hotel can be found right in the centre of Stockerau. It features a sauna, steam bath and fitness room. Vienna is 12 mi away and is easily reachable by car or train within 30 minutes. All rooms offer free Wi-Fi. A varied breakfast buffet is served every morning.
Sunday A day at leisure Monday This morning our city guide and local coach will show you some of the highlights of this charming city; travel the famous Ringstrasse, home to the Opera House, the Burg Theatre and the Houses of Parliament. In the afternoon free time to explore the city at your own pace. Tuesday Departing Stockerau we drive via Ceske Budejovice and explore the town’s scenic landscape rich in Gothic and Baroque structures, continuing on to Prague for our 2-night stay. Wednesday We explore Prague with a guided tour this morning. Prague is one of Europe’s most impressive capitals, thanks to its grand squares, imposing Charles Bridge, Old Town, charming Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square and Prague Castle, perched high above the city and reckoned to be the largest ancient castle in the world. After our tour, there’s time for a leisurely afternoon in the city before dinner at the hotel. Thursday We cross through Germany en-route to our penultimate night in Mannheim, arriving in time for dinner. Friday Our tour continues into Belgium with our final night in Hasselt. Saturday Homeward, arriving during the evening.
/ Look What’s Included 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own courier service 4 Club Class Extra Legroom Coach 4 Return DoverCalais Ferry Crossing 4 10 nights half board – 1 Nt Koeln-Bruehl, 1 Nt in Regensburg, 4 Nts at the City Hotel, Stockerau, Nr Vienna, 2 Nts at the Adria Hotel, Prague, 1 Nt Mannheim, 1 Nt Hasselt (Lunch replaces dinner on Day 4) 4 Rank 2 Priced Tickets for the Andre Rieu concert in Vienna 4 Selfguided audio tour of Schonbrunn Palace 4 Guided tours of Vienna & Prague 8 Not Included All other lunches & dinner on Day 4
Prague
Wed 10 – Sat 20 June 2020 Departs 5.30am
10 Nights Returns 9.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £300 | Holiday Insurance: £64.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Passports are required for this tour
Sightseeing Excursions are Included in the Price – On All Holidays!
£1869
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Adria Hotel, Prague (4-star)
Hotel Adria Praha is a classic 4-star hotel combining the charm of the old Prague with a comfort of modern equipped rooms. It is located on Wenceslas Square, in the very centre of Prague, in close proximity to all culture and shopping centres. Restaurant, bar/lounge, library and coffee shop. All overnight Hotels will be of a minimum 3-star standard.
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LAKE MOLVENO Italy’s Hidden Gem
9 Nights From: £1259 Molveno
Nestling at the heart of the Brenta Dolomites is the almost unknown gem of Lake Molveno. Enjoying a sheltered location the charming lakeside town of Molveno has shops, cafes and restaurants as well as a lakeside promenade and gardens. It is a great alternative to the busier Italian Lakes and is a superb base from which to explore. Holiday Itinerary
Saturday Channel crossing to France then on to the Mercure Hotel Forbach for dinner and our overnight stay Sunday We continue south through Germany passing Lake Constance through to our overnight hotel in Feldkirch, Austria – The Weisses Kreuz (White Cross) Hotel. Monday We travel through Austria, crossing the Brenner Pass to Italy and then on to Molveno for our 5 night stay. Tuesday A day to relax. The hotel is only a short walk from the town centre and lakeside. Enjoy the simple pleasures of the Trentino landscape and cuisine.
Wednesday A scenic round trip / Look What’s Included excursion to view the magnificent 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own Dolomites. We drive to Madonna di courier service 4 Luxury Traveller Campiglio and marvel at the Coach with ‘First Class’ seating & spectacular views of the Brenta Peaks. legroom 4 Fully reclining seats with We return via Cles and the Val di Non calf supports 4 Complimentary on board hot and cold drinks 4 Free with a short diversion to Lake Tovel Wi-Fi and USB charging points en-route. 4 Return Dover-Calais Ferry Crossing Thursday We drive north to the 4 1st & 9th nights overnight dinner, beautiful spa city of Merano. Spend bed & breakfast at the Mercure Hotel, Forbach, France 4 2nd night – DBB at the morning strolling through the the Weisses Kreuz Hotel Feldkirch, vibrant centre and perhaps take the Austria 4 3rd to 7th nights – 5 Nts half chair lift and admire the scenic views. board in Molveno with a welcome In the afternoon we return through the drink on arrival, buffet breakfasts, Adige Valley’s famous wine route. 4 nights 3 course dinners with choice from night 2, 1 Trentino dinner 4 8th Friday A full day excursion travelling through the Brenta Nature Park to Riva night – DBB at the Alpenpark Hotel Innsbruck, Austria 4 Outlined del Garda on the northern shores of excursions 8 Not Included All Lake Garda. Here, we can spend time lunches in the beautiful old piazza surrounded by cafes and bars with lovely lakeside views before returning to Molveno via Sarce. Saturday Departing Italy we travel over the Brenner Pass to Innsbruck in Austria, where we arrive in time for dinner at the Alpenpark Hotel. Sunday We retrace our steps to Forbach in France, for our final nights stay. Monday After breakfast, we drive to Calais and our ferry homeward.
Your Holiday Hotel
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Hotel du Lac, Molveno
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A charming and inviting 3-star superior hotel in traditional Trentino and Austrian chalet style. Overlooking the lake it has a lovely garden and terrace, restaurant, outdoor heated swimming pool and a cosy bar and lounge. Mobility Grade: 4 – Locality: Generally level. Hotel: Level entrance & lift to all floors.
Riva Del Garda
Sat 6 – Mon 15 June 2020 Departs 5.30am
© Flickr – Dave Queenan
Brenta Peaks
Kellerei Kaltern-Caldaro Wine Tasting
Lux Tvl Coach Returns 9.00pm
Supplements Single Room: £150 | Holiday Insurance: £59.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Passports are required for this tour
Travel with Johnsons – Travel with Friends
9 Nights
£1259
SUN-KISSED SARDINIA
Holiday by AIR
NEW TOUR
7 Nights From: £1499 Bosa
Holiday Itinerary
Tuesday You’ll fly to Sardinia today. On arrival, we’ll transfer you to your hotel, where you can get to know your travelling companions over a welcome drink before dinner. During your stay we include one evening transfer into the centre of the town, where you can enjoy a stroll and shop for souvenirs. (D) Wednesday Today join your Tour Manager and Local Guide on a tour of Alghero. The town is known for the deep-red coral found off the nearby Riviera del Corallo coast. It is one of the few places where coral fishing is allowed, though strictly regulated. We’ll visit a coral factory to see how it is crafted into pieces of jewellery. (B, L, D) Thursday We include an excursion to the archaeological site of Nuraghe Palmavera today, which we will explore in the company of a Local Guide. The site dates back as far as 15th century BC and there’s a host of ruins to explore. We then visit the Wine Resort of Azienda Agricola for a guided tour of the vineyard and olive-groves, before sampling four wines accompanied by local produce including cold meats, cheeses, bread and olive oil. The afternoon is free to further explore at your leisure or perhaps head to the beach. (B, L, D)
Alghero
Your Holiday Hotel Hotel Porto Conte, Alghero (4-star) Boasting a lovely beachfront position and a peaceful atmosphere, your hotel, just outside Alghero, features facilities including a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, private beach with sun loungers and parasols, tennis court, mini golf and table tennis. Guest rooms have a balcony.
Friday A day at leisure in Alghero, or / Look What’s Included join our optional excursion to the 4 Door to Door Service & Airport fascinating island of Asinara. Transfers 4 Return flights & airport The whole island is a National Park taxes from Luton to Olbia 4 7 nights’ and protected marine area, home to accommodation – All rooms are for several endangered species including Single Occupancy 4 21 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners & a the popular albino donkey. Discover welcome drink 4 Services of your this untouched landscape by 4X4 ‘Just You’ Tour Manager and specialist vehicle, with stops including an old local guides 4 Overseas transfers & prison and village. (B, L, D) transportation 4 Airport Saturday Alghero is one of Sardinia’s representation on outward journey 4 Coral Factory Visit 4 Nuraghe prettiest coastal resorts, and today Palmavera 4 Vineyard Experience & has been left free for you to explore. local food tasting 4 Evening transfer There is an optional morning to Alghero centre to explore at leisure excursion – a cruise in the search of Optional Excursion Experiences 4 x dolphins. There is also an optional 4 Asinara Marine Reserve Island adventure (£99) Dolphin Cruise afternoon tour to Neptune’s Grotto, (£70) Neptune Grotto (£60) Tinnura, a large marine cave that was Bosa & River Cruise (£49) discovered by fishermen in the 18th century. Formed about two million years ago, there are rooms with astounding karst formations, a white sandy beach and a huge underground lake – a captivating gem of the Mediterranean. (B, L, D) Sunday An optional excursion to the little town of Tinnura, where many of the buildings are covered in huge murals depicting everyday life. Next we visit the picturesque town of Bosa, whose attractive old quarter is home to medieval streets, stone staircases and houses painted in bright colours. From here we’ll enjoy a relaxing river cruise before free time for lunch. We’ll return to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure. (B, L, D) Monday Spend today enjoying the facilities at your hotel. (B, L, D) Tuesday Today we’ll transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B, L) (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner Tue 29 Sep – Tue 6 Oct 2020
Single Traveller
Departs 8.45am
Returns 9.00pm
7 Nights
£1499
Your Flights Outward journey: Departs Luton 12.55pm • Arrives Olbia 4.20pm Return journey: Departs Olbia 4.55pm • Arrives Luton 6.25pm Supplements Single Room: Nil | Seaview: £95 Holiday Insurance: £57.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Passports are required for this tour. A Deposit of £250 pp is required for this tour 11451 All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority ATOL Scheme – Johnsons ATOL Number is 11451.
Johnsons – A Family business for over 110 years!
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Enjoy a relaxing week in one of Sardinia’s loveliest coastal resorts and get out and about.
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DISCOVER MALTA
Holiday by AIR
NEW TOUR
7 Nights From: £1039 Marsaxlokk
Sample the culture, cuisine and ancient heritage of the sun-drenched island of Malta Holiday Itinerary
Thursday You’ll depart on your flight to Malta today and on arrival you will be transferred to your hotel in pretty St Paul’s Bay. Take in the dazzling sea views and enjoy a stroll before dinner. (D) Friday After breakfast, you’ll get to know Malta’s capital Valletta, a World Heritage City, brimming with historical sites. First, you’ll head to the Barrakka Gardens, which are laid out on part of the city’s old Ta’Qali Craft Village fortifications and offer magnificent views of the famous Grand Harbour. You’ll then visit the Saluting Battery, where one of eight replica cannons is fired daily at midday. Afterwards, explore Valletta’s main streets at leisure – see the many historic buildings built by the Knights of St John, such as the Auberges and the magnificent St John’s Cathedral, where Caravaggio’s masterpiece ‘Beheading of St John the Baptist’ is on display. (B) (D) Saturday Today is a free day, so it’s entirely up to you how spend it or join us on an optional excursion to the pretty green island of Gozo, where you can explore many of the island’s natural highlights and the city of Victoria. (B) Sunday You are free again to relax or explore at your own pace. There will be an optional tour to Marsaxlokk, a fishing village on the island’s south coast with a picturesque harbour filled with colourful boats. Then, visit the Blue Grotto caves, a series of seven dramatic sea caves. You can experience this spectacular natural wonder up close by boat if you wish, for a fantastic photo opportunity. (B)
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Your Holiday Hotel
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Dolmen Resort Hotel (4-star) The Dolmen Resort Hotel is a modern, sophisticated hotel on a private beach. Facilities include a 24-hour casino, spa and water-sports centre. With five swimming pools and several restaurants and bars, there’s no better base for a holiday in Malta.
Monday We’ll spend today with a / Look What’s Included local family on their 600-acre farm in 4 Door to Door Service & Airport the rural village of Dingli. We’ll be Transfers 4 Return flights & airport warmly welcomed by the owner and taxes from Birmingham to Malta taken on a tour to see the vegetable 4 7 nights’ accommodation 4 11 plot and olive-tree orchard. We’ll enjoy Meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners a lunch of specialities which have been & a welcome drink 4 Services of your Travelsphere Tour Manager and a cooked by the family for generations. specialist local guide 4 Overseas This unique experience will give you a transfers & transportation 4 Airport moving, heart-warming taste of rural representation on outward journey 4 Valetta Tour & St John’s Cathedral and family life on Malta. (B) (L) 4 Exclusive visit to the Saluting Tuesday We’ll visit the medieval fort Battery 4 Walking tour of the three cities of Senglea, Cospicua and cities of Senglea, Cospicua and Vittoriosa, as well as Mosta, with its Vittoriosa 4 Explore Mdina 4 An domed Church of Santa Maria. You’ll also evening of traditional food, folk music & dance 4 Local flavours: Traditional have a chance to watch the art of Maltese meal in a farmhouse. glassblowing at Ta’Qali craft village and Optional Experiences: Gozo island explore Mdina, Malta’s ancient capital. (B) visit with winery and lunch (£65) • Wednesday Today is a day at leisure. Visit Marsaxlokk and the Blue Grotto (£47) In the evening we’ll enjoy a night of traditional music, dance and food in a Maltese village. During a fabulous dinner, you’ll be entertained by local musicians and traditional dancing. It’s the perfect way to end this wonderful introduction to Malta. (B) (D) Thursday Today, you’ll transfer to the airport for a flight back to the UK. (B) (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner Thu 7 – Thu 14 May 2020 Departs TBA
7 Nights
£1039
Returns TBA
Your Flights Exact flight times are still to be confirmed Supplements Single Room: £300 | Sea View Room Upgrade: £90 Holiday Insurance: £57.50 | Pre-Bookable Optional Excursions – Book both at the time of booking and pay £107 (Saving £5) | (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) | Passports are required for this tour. A Deposit of £250pp is required for this tour 11451 All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority ATOL Scheme – Johnsons ATOL Number is 11451.
Call 01564 797000 or visit www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk
SECRET SLOVENIA
Holiday by AIR
NEW TOUR
7 Nights From: £1749 Lake Bled
Holiday Itinerary
Friday You’ll fly to Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana today. On arrival, we’ll transfer you to your hotel. (D) Saturday Take a stroll around Kranjska Gora this morning. We’ll pass by the village’s onion-domed church and pretty houses as we walk to Lake Jasna, whose entrance is guarded by the legendary Goldhorn statue. Take in the breathtaking views of this small artificial lake with the Julian Alps towering behind. On our way back to the hotel, we’ll learn about traditional ways of life in the Upper Sava Valley at the Liznjek homestead. (B, D) Sunday Our drive today takes us through the Upper Sava Valley and over the Vrsic Mountain Pass, one of the highest roads in Slovenia. We will stop to take in the views at the summit and then descend into the Trenta Valley, following the shores of the unique emerald-green Soča River. We’ll enjoy lunch in Bovec before heading towards the Predil Mountain Pass. (B, L, D) Monday Today we’ll explore Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana on foot with a Local Guide, starting in the Old Town, with its narrow cobbled streets and castletopped hill. We’ll also see the Town Hall, St Nikolai Cathedral and the public market, which runs along the river. For lunch we’re going to head to two different venues to try different Slovenian snacks, accompanied by local wines. (B, L, D)
Ljubljana
Your Holiday Hotel Hotel Kompass, Kranjska Gora (4-star) Your hotel is located in Kranjska Gora and is surrounded by lovely gardens and meadows, with the towering Julian Alps a dramatic backdrop. Facilities include a restaurant serving traditional cuisine, bar and wellness centre with steam bath, sauna and indoor pool.
Tuesday Today we learn all about the / Look What’s Included culture and traditions of the people 4 Door to Door Service & Airport who live among the Julian Alps. Transfers 4 Return flights & airport We will journey to Stara Sava in taxes from Stansted to Ljubljana Jesenice, a former iron foundry 4 7 nights’ accommodation – All settlement, and visit the Slovenian rooms are for Single Occupancy 4 16 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 7 Alpine Museum in the village of dinners & a welcome drink 4 Services Mojstrana. Finally, we’ll stop at an inn of your ‘Just You’ Tour Manager and nestled beneath Slovenia’s highest specialist local guides 4 Overseas peak, Mount Triglav. Here we’ll find out transfers & transportation 4 Airport representation on outward journey how the materials used to make the area’s mountain huts were transported 4 Tour of Kranjska Gora including Lake Jasna & Liznjek homestead visit up the mountainside. A great end-of4 Explore the Julian Alps, inc lunch day treat is the chance to sample 4 Guided tour of Ljubljana with wine Slovenian donuts accompanied by a tasting & local snacks 4 Slovenian Alpine Museum 4 Lake Bohinj & Cable glass of schnapps. (B, D) car ride 4 Pletna boat ride to Lake Wednesday Our first stop today is at Bled’s island & Lake Bled Castle the crystal waters of Lake Bohinj, the 4 Farewell dinner with folklore largest lake in Slovenia, where locals dancing will drink the water because it is so clean. We’ll also see the Savica waterfall and take a cable car up Mount Vogel for stunning views. Next we head to the turquoise waters of Lake Bled, in which sits Slovenia’s only island. We’ll head there on a traditional wooden Pletna boat, and we’ll visit the 12th century Bled Castle. (B, D) Thursday We head over the border to Italy and the medieval walled town of Venzone today. We will see St Michael’s Chapel, which houses the mummies of Venzone. On our way back we will stop at the glacial Fusine Lakes, and tonight we’ll head to a restaurant for a farewell dinner and folklore dancing. (B, D) Friday After breakfast we’ll transfer you to the airport for your flight back to the UK. (B) (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner Fri 19 – Fri 26 June 2020
Single Traveller
Departs 7.45am
Returns 9.45pm
7 Nights
£1749
Your Flights Outward journey: Departs Stansted 1.05pm • Arrives Ljubljana 4.10pm Return journey: Departs Ljubljana 4.45pm• Arrives Stansted 6.00pm Supplements Single Room: Nil | Holiday Insurance: £57.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Passports are required for this tour. A Deposit of £250 pp is required for this tour 11451 All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority ATOL Scheme – Johnsons ATOL Number is 11451.
Free Door to Door Home Pick-Up Service on All Holidays
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Discover Slovenia’s hidden gems. Picture-perfect lakes, glorious mountain scenery and enchanting castles are all here, along with local treats and traditions.
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FAIRYTALE CASTLES
Holiday by AIR
& Railways of Transylvania
NEW TOUR
10 Nights From: £1598 Peles Castle
Join us on an exciting journey taking us by coach and rail into the heart of Transylvania. Venture into the wilderness aboard historic steam trains and explore timeless rural landscapes for a gentler glimpse into the ancient Romanian way of life. Surrounded by breathtaking nature, Transylvania’s fairytale castles lend an aura of legend and mystery to this magical tour Holiday Itinerary
Tuesday To Heathrow and our flight to Bucharest, where we meet our local guide and transfer to our hotel. This evening’s dinner will be served in a local restaurant and includes wine & traditional entertainment. Wednesday After breakfast we transfer by coach to Calimanesti and board the train for the first of our rail journeys. Relax and enjoy the views of the Carparthian mountains as the train heads to Sibiu. On arrival we visit Sibiu’s Steam Train Museum, before continuing to our hotel for dinner. Thursday We’ll enjoy a guided walking tour. Tonight, dinner is in the village of Sibiel. Friday Once the residence of Hungarian Kings, Hunyadi Castle is often called one the of the ‘Seven Wonders of Romania’ and was built in a RenaissanceGothic style. We journey via Alba Lulia to Turda where we visit one of the world’s oldest salt mines. Tonight’s dinner is served in our hotel in ClujNapoca. Saturday Cluj-Napoca was the former capital of Transylvania. Today, our guided walking tour takes in the two main squares where we’ll see both the Catholic and Orthodox Cathedrals. We continue to the small village of Sapanta where we visit the ‘Merry Cemetery’. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a special candlelight dinner on board the Carpathia Express Train Restaurant at Mocanita Train Station before an overnight stay in Viseul de Sus. Sunday Today we board a narrow-gauge steam train for a journey on the last remaining forestry railway in Europe. The Vaser Valley line winds its way through a fascinating wilderness native to both wolves and bears. We’ll enjoy a barbecue lunch before visiting the wooden churches of Barsana and Bogdan Voda. Tonight, we stay in Bistrita with dinner served in our hotel. Monday This morning we visit Moldovita Monastery and enjoy a leisurely ride through gorgeous mountain scenery on the newly restored, narrowgauge steam train that runs alongside the Moldovita River. After lunch visit Voronet Monastery, also known as the ‘Sistine Chapel of the East’ for its magnificent fresco ‘The Last Judgement’. This evening’s dinner is served in our hotel.
Tuesday Enjoy a guided tour of Targu / Look What’s Included Mures before continuing to Sighisoara 4 Door to Door Service 4 Coach a town founded by Transylvanian Saxons in the 12th century. After seeing Transfers to Heathrow Airport 4 Services of your Arena Travel Tour the birthplace of Count Dracula and Manager 4 Return flights & airport the Church on the Hill we’ll board a taxes from Heathrow to Bucharest 4 Connecting rail & coach journeys local train to Brasov. Dinner is served 4 10 nights bed & breakfast in our hotel this evening. accommodation 4 5 hotel dinners, Wednesday This morning visit 4 restaurant dinners, including one on Brasov, where we explore its beautiful the famous Carpathia Express train and one at Bran Castle and one lunch in centre on foot before driving to Bran Molovita 4 Services of an experienced and visit the castle widely known as local guide & Tour Manager being the place where Bram Stoker’s fictional creation Count Dracula is set. Built by the German Saxons in the 14th century, the castle became a royal residence in 1920. Dinner is served in Bran Castle Tea House. Thursday We travel by rail to the mountain resort of Sinaia alighting at the Royal Train Station, which is also a stop for the famous Orient Express. We visit Peles Castle – a masterpiece of German new-Renaissance architecture and undoubtedly one of the most stunning castles in Europe. In the afternoon we continue by coach to Bucharest. At a local restaurant in the Old Town we’ll enjoy a farewell dinner with entertainment and a glass of wine to toast our holiday. Friday After breakfast we include one final visit to Parliament Palace, before we transfer to Bucharest Airport for our return flight home. Your rail journeys: * Steam train ride through the Vaser Valley including a barbecue lunch * Steam train journey on the Mocanita to Moldovita and a visit to Moldovita Monastery Plus, the following tours & experiences: * Entrance to the fascinating Sibiu Steam Train Museum * Entrance to the fairytale castles of Hunyadi and Peles and the fascinating Turda Salt Mine * Walking tours of Sibiu’s Old Town, Cluj-Napoca, Sighisoara, Brasov and a visit to Parliament Palace * Visits to the Merry Cemetery of Sapanta and Voronet Monastery * Entrance to the setting of Bram Stoker’s Dracula ‘Bran Castle’. Your Flights Outward journey: Departs London Heathrow 11.40 • Arrives Bucharest 17.00 Return journey: Departs Bucharest 17.55 • Arrives London Heathrow 19.20 11451
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Your Holiday Hotels During your time in Romania you will stay in handpicked, quality, 3- and 4-star hotels. All hotels have en-suite rooms, a restaurant & bar. Hotels include… Bucharest, 4-star Hotel Mercure Unirii – 2 nts * Sibiu, 4-star Hotel Golden Tulip – 2 nts * Cluj-Napoca, 4-star Hotel Golden Tulip Ana Dome Cluj – 1 nt * Viseul de Sus, 3-star Hotel Gabriela – 1 nt * Bistrita, 4-star Hotel Metropolis – 2 nts * Brasov, 4-star Hotel Kronwell – 2 nts.
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All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority ATOL Scheme – Johnsons ATOL Number is 11451.
Tue 8 – Fri 18 Sept 2020 Departs 6.00am
10 Nights Returns 11.30pm
Supplements Single Room: £350 | Holiday Insurance: £64.50 (All prices are per person & are for the entire tour) Passports are required for this tour
For Friendly Help and Advice Call Us on 01564 797000
£1598
SPRINGTIME IN THE GARDENS
Cruise Holiday by AIR
of Holland & Belgium
6 Nights From: £1029 Kinderdijk
Holiday Itinerary
Keukenhof Gardens
Your Cruise Ship MS Arena
© NBTC Holland Marketing
Sunday To Heathrow Airport for our flight to Amsterdam. Transfer by local coach to meet our cruise ship and enjoy a relaxing evening on-board. Monday We set off early this morning on an optional excursion to the Aalsmeer Flower Auction, where you can experience the hustle and bustle of the auction floor and admire the stunning flowers. Later today you can join another optional excursion which reveals the best views of Amsterdam on a cruise around the city’s canals.
Tuesday This morning we reach / Look What’s Included Kinderdijk, which is renowned for its 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own 19 beautifully preserved windmills. courier service 4 Return airport Our optional excursion visits two of transfers 4 Return flights from the mills, before cruising to Dordrecht. Heathrow 4 Coach transfers between Our other optional excursion then takes airport & ship 4 6 nights cruise on a full board basis 4 Excursions to you to Appeltern Gardens, home to Floralia Spring Flower & Keukenhof 200 model gardens bursting with Gardens 4 Visits to Amsterdam, colour and inspiration. Later today Kinderdijk, Antwerp & Rotterdam we begin cruising towards Belgium. Optional Excursions Available – Wednesday After breakfast, we Aalsmeer Flower Auction, depart on an included trip to Floralia. Amsterdam Canal Cruise with cheese & wine, Windmills of Held in the grounds of Chateau de Kinderdijk, Appeltern Gardens, Grand Bigard, where you can wander National Botanic Gardens of among more than a million bulbs and Belgium admire the glasshouse exhibits. The remainder of the day is free to explore Antwerp. Thursday Today’s optional trip takes you to the National Botanic Garden of Belgium (Meise) and the Plant. This is one of the largest botanic gardens in the world. Later today we begin cruising to Rotterdam. Friday We depart on an included trip to Keukenhof Gardens, where over seven million bulbs are on show. You can follow the pathways which surround shimmering lakes, ancient trees and wonderful works of art, browse the pavilions, find your way around the hedge maze and enjoy the entertainment taking place throughout the day. Later this evening begin cruising back to Amsterdam. Saturday We bid farewell to our captain and crew after breakfast and set off on the return journey home. Sun 3 – Sat 9 May 2020
6 Nights
Single Occupancy
Main Deck Standard
£1029
£1494
Main Deck Superior
£1199
£1749
Upper Deck Superior
£1319
£1929
Departs TBA This 4-star ship has all the ingredients for an unforgettable river cruise with comfort, style and unfaltering attention to detail. Panorama restaurant, Ambassador’s lounge/bar, library, sun deck, on-board shop, All cabins on board the MS Arena are spacious and feature outward-facing floor to ceiling panoramic windows with French balconies, air-conditioning, TV, telephone, hairdryer and safe.
Returns TBA
Supplements Holiday Insurance: £57.50 Passports will be required for this tour. Departure/Return & Flight times – Still to be confirmed. 11451 All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority ATOL Scheme – Johnsons ATOL Number is 11451.
Relax on our European River Cruise Holidays
RIVER CRUISING
Experience the ultimate spring sensation at two of the most beautiful gardens in Europe. Keukenhof, with more than seven million tulips, daffodils and hyacinths, is undoubtedly one of the finest spring time gardens in the world. Meanwhile, Floralia, is the must see spring event in Belgium where thousands of bulbs are on show around a beautiful castle.
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CRUISE THE DANUBE
Cruise Holiday by AIR
To Vienna & Budapest
7 Nights From: £1149 Budapest
Set sail from the ‘three rivers city’ of Passau and embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Europe. Cruise along one of Europe’s finest rivers aboard the 4-star rated River Cruise Ship – MS Arena and step ashore to explore fabled towns and cities, including the great capitals of Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. Holiday Itinerary
RIVER CRUISING
Thursday We fly to Munich and transfer by local coach to Passau, where we board our ship. You can enjoy a relaxing evening on-board as we set sail and cruise towards Melk. Friday This morning we arrive in the small town of Melk, which lies in the beautiful Wachau valley. Here you can join our optional excursion visiting the Benedictine Abbey. This is one of the Vienna most famous monastic houses in Austria and has been occupied by monks for over 900 years. You can relax on-board for the remainder of the day as we cruise to Vienna for an overnight stop. Saturday A full day experiencing the delights of Vienna. Grand palaces, baroque castles, magnificent squares and striking monuments are just some of the key features of this beautiful city. In the morning you can join our optional city tour followed by lunch on-board. This afternoon you can take advantage of our optional excursion to Belvedere Palace, a stunning Baroque building made up of two palaces, an orangery and the palace stables. In the early evening we cast off and cruise towards Budapest Sunday We arrive in Budapest. Enjoy lunch on-board the ship before an optional tour of this fascinating city. Look out for the Royal Palace, Fishermen’s Bastion, the Parliament building, St Stephen’s Basilica, Heroes’ Square and the Chain Bridge. We return to the ship for a relaxing dinner on-board then there’s the chance to join our optional excursion to experience Budapest by night with a traditional folklore show.
Your Cruise Ship MS Arena This 4-star ship has all the ingredients for an unforgettable river cruise with comfort, style and unfaltering attention to detail. Panorama restaurant, Ambassador’s lounge/bar, library, sun deck, on-board shop, All cabins on board the MS Arena are spacious and feature outward-facing floor to ceiling panoramic windows with French balconies, air-conditioning, TV, telephone, hairdryer and safe.
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Monday Enjoy a morning in Budapest / Look What’s Included or join the optional excursion through 4 Door to Door Service 4 Our own the sweeping plains of Hungary to courier service 4 Coach transfers to Lajosmizse. Here we visit a traditional Heathrow Airport 4 Return flights & stud farm and enjoy a tour of the airport taxes from Heathrow to Munich grounds in a horse-drawn carriage, 4 Local coach transfers between airport & ship 4 7 nights cruising on a before watching a spectacular live FULL BOARD basis 4 Services of OnPuszta horse show. We set sail in the Board Cruise Manager afternoon and cruise towards Optional Excursions (Prices per Bratislava. person & if required, should be booked at the time of booking) Tuesday This morning we reach Melk Abbey £28 Vienna City Tour Bratislava with an optional excursion £24 Belvedere Palace £35 taking in this historic capital city, which Budapest City Tour £20 Budapest is dominated by its castle and unique By Night £39 Puszta Horse Show £40 suspension bridge. Enjoy a walking Bratislava Walking Tour & Chocolate tour with a local guide and sample Experience £24 ‘Makovka’ which is a sweet white chocolate with poppy seed filling. Lunch is served on-board and the afternoon is free to explore Bratislava at leisure before we enjoy dinner on-board as we cruise towards Dürnstein Wednesday The town of Dürnstein nestles among Austria’s most famous vineyards and is crowned by the ruins of the castle that once imprisoned Richard the Lionheart. It’s a beautiful place filled with cobbled streets, pretty courtyards and 16th century houses. After some free time we set sail for the final time and cruise towards Passau. Thursday We disembark this morning and travel by coach to Munich Airport and our flight home. Thu 6 – Thu 13 Aug 2020
7 Nights
Single Occupancy
Main Deck Standard
£1149
£1647
Main Deck Superior
£1299
n/a
£1449
n/a
Upper Deck Superior Departs TBA
Returns TBA
Supplements Holiday Insurance: £57.50 Pre-bookable Premium Package: £140 per person Arena’s Premium Package is a great way to add a touch of something special to your river cruise experience. This exclusive package is a prebookable addition available across all cabin grades, and includes drinks with your meals, 10% off excursions, a welcome basket of fruit on arrival, water delivered to your cabin, a selection of complimentary toiletries and free use of the wellness and fitness suite aboard MS Arena. Passports will be required for this tour. Departure/Return & Flight times – Still to be confirmed. 11451 All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority ATOL Scheme – Johnsons ATOL Number is 11451.
Relax on our European River Cruise Holidays
FRED.OLSEN CRUISES
Find your perfect Fred.Olsen Cruise from our exclusive selection of cruises all sailing from the UK.
ALL ON-BOARD GRATUITIES INCLUDED Look What’s Included on All Cruises 4 Door to Door Service from your home 4 Return coach transfers to Port of embarkation 4 Our own Courier Service (Subject to a minimum of 15 people travelling) 4 All On-board Gratuities Included 4 Comfortable rooms and suites with TV, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities and individually controlled air-conditioning 4 Tempting cuisine every day throughout your cruise – with five course à la carte dinners, casual breakfast and lunch buffets and late-night snacks 4 Self-service tea and coffee at selected venues, morning coffee with biscuits, and afternoon sandwiches and cakes 4 In-room sandwiches and snacks 4 All evening entertainment, including cabaret shows, live music and dancing 4 Captain’s Drinks Party and Gala Buffet 4 Use of leisure facilities, including swimming pools, Jacuzzis and gym 4 A wide choice of on board activities and lectures throughout the day 4 All UK port taxes (where collectable in advance) Not Included: Drinks & shore excursions
ALL DEPARTURE & RETURN TIMINGS – Still to be advised HOLIDAY INSURANCE – Please contact us for details
All Prices on board are in Sterling – so you don’t have any worries about currency fluctuations ABTOT – All Cruise Holidays featured on this page are protected through our membership of ABTOT (Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust).
Cruise the World with Fred.Olsen
CRUISING
DEPOSITS – A 20% Deposit of the total cruise value is required at the time of booking
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FRED. OLSEN’S MS BLACK WATCH
ALL ON-BOARD GRATUITIES INCLUDED
8 Nights From: £1509
Black Watch provides traditional cruising in an intimate atmosphere allowing you to engage with your fellow passengers and forge new friendships. Since her last refurbished the ship has received a major upgrade to cabins, suites and public areas. Black Watch captures the feel and spirit of a traditional cruise. Her relaxed public areas have been rejuvenated but still maintain many traditional cruise ship features. Large windows, soft tones and elegant décor all contribute to the warm classic feel of this ship. Weighing in at 28,492 tons and with a length of 674 feet, Black Watch packs in a wealth of entertainment and facilities that will satisfy all. For further ship information please visit fredolsencruises.com/our-ships.
Facilities overview
Superior outside cabin
Marquee bar
Glentanar restaurant
CRUISING
2020 Cruise Pricing
Nightly entertainment
Cabin Grades
Cruise
Dates
Cruise Code
Nights
Superior Outside (B)
Outside Porthole (D)
Outside Porthole (E)
Superior Single Inside (M)
Authentic Flavours of Portugal
Sun 7 – Wed 17 Jun 2020
W2016
10
£1949
£1709
£1619
£2349
Whales, Wonders & Waterfalls of Iceland
Mon 27 Jul – Wed 5 Aug 2020
W2021
9
£2149
£1849
£1749
£2549
Scottish Isles
Wed 5 –Thu 13 Aug 2020
W2022
8
£1839
£1569
£1509
£2179
Norway’s Northern Archipelago
Fri 25 Sep – Wed 7 Oct 2020
W2027
12
£2659
£2299
£2209
£3209
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Insurance Premiums now available on Cruise Holidays
AUTHENTIC FLAVOURS
WHALES, WONDERS & WATERFALLS
of Portugal
of Iceland
10 Nights From: £1619
9 Nights From: £1749
Lisbon
Akureyri
Cruise Code: W2016 | Departs: Sun 7 Jun for 10 Nights
Cruise Code: W2021 | Departs Mon 27 Jul for 9 Nights
Indulge in an authentic taste of Portugal on an unforgettable holiday full of quintessentially Portuguese sights and experiences. Visits to three diverse destinations are the ingredients of a perfect recipe for exploration, presenting opportunities to sample everything from fresh seafood to famous fine wines, and immerse yourself in the country’s rich history and culture.
For a spellbinding taste of one of the world’s most awe-inspiring countries, Black Watch will guide you on an epic adventure, taking in remarkable destinations and waterways on three sides of Iceland. Dramatic landscapes, inspirational wonders and wildlife, and magical experiences are yours to savour, from powerful waterfalls and geysers to stunning sea bird islands and whale watching tours.
Cruise Highlights: Liverpool, UK > Vigo, Spain > Portimao, Portugal > Lisbon, Portugal > Leixões (for Oporto), Portugal > Liverpool, UK.
SCOTTISH ISLES
Cruise Highlights: Liverpool, UK > Reykjavík, Iceland > Isaörður, Iceland > Cruising by Hornstrandir Iceland > Cruising Eyjaörður, Iceland > Akureyri, Iceland > Cruising > Seyðisörður, Iceland > Seyðisörður, Iceland > Liverpool, UK.
NORWAY’S Northern Archipelago
12 Nights From: £2209
Portree
Torghatten
Cruise Code: W2022 | Departs: Wed 5 Aug for 8 Nights
Cruise Code: W2027 | Departs: Fri 25 Sep for 12 Nights
Experience the very best of Scotland, with a perfect mix of remote islands, beautiful waterways and the attractionpacked historic capital. This enriching exploration presents untouched landscapes, captivating wildlife and ancient historical sites, and an unmissable opportunity to attend two iconic, internationally renowned events – Edinburgh’s International Festival’s & the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
Sail into the Arctic Circle and savour the effortlessly alluring scenery and captivating tranquility of Norway’s breathtaking northern archipelagos. With visits to rugged, remote islands, you’ll discover wild, untamed landscapes and postcard-perfect towns and villages, while scenic cruising aboard Black Watch will provide unforgettable experiences too.
Cruise Highlights: Liverpool, UK > Kirkwall > Rosyth (Edinburgh) > Cruising by Old Man of Hoy, Orkneys > Cruising by Marwick Head, Scotland Lerwick > Portree Isle of Skye > Cruising Fingal’s Cave > Cruising Tobermory Bay > Cruising Sound of Mull > Cruising past Duart Castle > Liverpool, UK.
Cruise Highlights: Liverpool, UK > Kristiansund, Norway > Cruising Rørvik, Norway > Cruising Torghatten, Norway > Cruising Seven Sisters mountain range, Norway > Crossing the Arctic Circle, Norway > Cruise Trollord, Norway > Cruising Raftsundet, Norway > Sortland, Vesterålen, Norway > Tromsø, Norway > Leknes, Norway > Cruising by Reine, Norway > Lerwick, UK > Liverpool, UK.
For further cruise information please visit fredolsencruises.com
Call 01564 797000 or visit www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk
CRUISING
8 Nights From: £1509
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FRED. OLSEN’S MS BOUDICCA
ALL ON-BOARD GRATUITIES INCLUDED
9 Nights From: £1529
Named after the British warrior Queen, Boudicca has built up a loyal following of guests who appreciate a sense of class and timeless elegance not seen or experienced on modern ‘megaships’. On board, in keeping with the Fred. Olsen fleet, the emphasis is on providing an intimate and more traditional cruise experience, ensuring guests disembark after their relaxing and rewarding holiday as friends, not just customers. Up to 880 guests can cruise aboard Boudicca, which, thanks to an extensive refurbishment of the ship’s suites, bedrooms, restaurants, lounges and facilities, will continue to show you the world in comfort and style for many years to come. For further ship information please visit fredolsencruises.com/our-ships.
Facilities overview
Gym
Balcony suite
Oriental tea room
CRUISING
2020 Cruise Pricing
Tintagel Restaurant
Cabin Grades
Cruise
Dates
Cruise Code
Nights
Superior Outside (B)
Outside Porthole (D)
Outside Porthole (E)
Superior Single Inside (M)
Springtime Scenery of the Fjordland
Fri 17 – Sun 26 Apr 2020
D2009
9
£1899
£1619
£1529
£2149
Amalfi Coast, Tuscany & The Italian Riviera
Sun 26 Apr – Mon 18 May 2020
D2010
22
£4959
£4199
£3809
£5609
Isles of the UK
Wed 15 – Fri 24 Jul 2020
D2018
9
£1949
£1649
£1599
£2299
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Free Door to Door Home Pick-Up Service on All Holidays
SPRINGTIME SCENERY
Cruise Code: D2009 | Departs: Fri 17 Apr for 9 Nights Experience a full-flavoured taste of Norway’s magical ordland, with visits to six captivating destinations complemented by scenic cruising of spectacular, unspoilt waterways. From on board Boudicca, marvel at the scenic splendour of the narrow, twisting Nærøyord, Nordord, Maurangerord and Hardangerord, the ‘Queen of the Fjords’
of the Fjordland
9 Nights From: £1529
Cruise Highlights: Dover, UK > Bergen, Norway > Flåm, Norway > Cruising Nærøyord to Gudvangen, Norway > Ålesund, Norway > Olden, Norway > Cruising Nordord, Norway > Cruising Maurangerord, Norway > Cruise Hardangerord, Norway > Eidord, Norway > Stavanger, Norway >Dover, UK.
Olden
AMALFI COAST,
Cruise Code: D2010 | Departs: Sun 26 Apr for 22 Nights
Tuscany & The Italian Riviera
An intoxicating blend of spectacular natural beauty, remarkable history and authentic cultural experiences is sure to sweep you off your feet on this unparalleled Italian exploration. Visit Naples and Civitavecchia, gateway to iconic sites such as Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, the Colosseum; and have a chance to take in the Tuscan treasures of Pisa or Florence on tour from Livorno. In among time ashore in sun-drizzled Sorrento and Amalfi, you’ll witness the Amalfi Coast’s spectacular scenery first-hand; while Portofino and Genoa showcase the delights of the Italian Riviera 22 Nights From: £3809
Cruise Highlights: Dover, UK > Malaga, Spain > Mahon (Menorca), Spain > Sorrento, Italy > Naples, Italy > Amalfi, Italy > Cruising Amalfi Coast & Capri, Italy > Civitavecchia (for Rome), Italy > Livorno, Italy > Portofino, Italy > Genoa, Italy > Cartagena, Spain > Lisbon, Portugal > Vigo, Spain > Dover, UK.
Portofino
ISLES OF THE UK
Cruise Code: D2018 | Departs: Wed 15 Jul for 9 Nights
St Peter Port
Cruise Highlights: Dover, UK > St. Peter Port, Guernsey > Falmouth > Portree Isle of Skye > Kirkwall, Orkney Islands > Lerwick, Shetland Isles > Aberdeen, Scotland > Dover, UK.
For further cruise information please visit fredolsencruises.com
With our bond in place – Your money is safe
CRUISING
9 Nights From: £1599
Experience the breathtaking scenery, ancient history and engrossing diversity of beautiful islands and two insightful cities, on this rewarding circumnavigation of the British Isles aboard MS Boudicca. Visits to the rugged Scottish isles of Skye, the Orkneys and the Shetlands will present chances to uncover Neolithic villages; historic castles; fascinating wildlife and spellbinding natural landscapes. Meanwhile, Aberdeen awaits with its many architectural and cultural delights, while there’s also chances to discover some of the highlights of Cornwall, such as the iconic Eden Project, and beautiful Guernsey.
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FRED. OLSEN’S MS BRAEMAR
ALL ON-BOARD GRATUITIES INCLUDED
5 Nights From: £779
A timeless style flows throughout Braemar’s interiors. Large windows bathe the ship’s public areas in natural light and provide spectacular views, and the polished wooden fixtures, decadent fabrics and elegant décor assume the feel of a traditional country house hotel. One of the focal points on Braemar is the beautifully painted, five-deck-high Atrium area, while the cascading outside decks at the stern enhance the ship’s elegant profile and offer stunning vistas no matter which outside deck you’re on. For further ship information please visit fredolsencruises.com/our-ships.
Facilities overview
Superior suite
Lido Bar
Marquee bar
CRUISING
2020 Cruise Pricing
Pool area
Cabin Grades
Cruise
Dates
Cruise Code
Nights
Superior Ocean View (B)
Superior Ocean View (C)
Ocean View (E)
Interior Room (I)
Single Interior (M)
Crossing the Arctic Circle with the Midnight Sun
Sun 14 – Sun 28 Jun 2020
M2015
14
£3069
£2969
£2619
£2069
£3769
Delights of Devon & Cornwall
Thu 27 Aug – Tue 1 Sep 2020
M2022
5
£1129
£1099
£979
£779
£1429
Exploring the Canaries & Madeira
Wed 11 – Tue 24 Nov 2020
M2030
13
£2129
£2029
£2029
£1569
£2769
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We include a No Surcharge Guarantee on all Coach Holidays
CROSSING THE ARCTIC CIRCLE
Cruise Code: M2015 | Departs: Sun 14 Jun for 14 Nights Sailing an epic route from southern England to mainland Europe’s northernmost point and back aboard Braemar, you’re in for a cruise packed with incredible experiences. You’ll cross the Arctic Circle; revel in the sight of unique mountains and landscapes; see coastal bonfires marking the Summer Solstice; and even witness the magical midnight sun.
with the Midnight Sun
Gerangerord
Cruise Highlights: Southampton, UK > Hellesylt, Norway > Cruising Geirangerfjord, Norway > Cruising past Seven Sisters Waterfall, Norway > Ålesund, Norway > Cruising Rørvik, Norway > Cruising Torghatten, Norway > Cruising Seven Sisters mountain range, Norway > Crossing the Arctic Circle, Norway > Harstad, Norway > Honningsvåg, Norway > Cruise North Cape, Norway > Tromsø, Norway > Leknes, Norway > Molde, Norway > Southampton, UK.
DELIGHTS OF
Cruise Code: M2022 | Departs: Thu 27 Aug for 5 Nights
14 Nights From: £2069
Devon & Cornwall
For a relaxing, wonderfully rewarding Bank Holiday break, join Braemar and sail England’s beautiful south coast, discovering the delights of three charming destinations in Devon and Cornwall along the way. Feel as if you’re in a faraway idyll in the Isles of Scilly, among the white-sand beaches and unspoilt landscapes of St Mary’s; and follow in the footsteps of some of history’s great explorers in Plymouth. Cruise Highlights: Southampton, UK > St. Mary’s, Isles of Scilly > Falmouth > Plymouth > Southampton, UK.
5 Nights From: £779 St Mary’s
EXPLORING THE CANARIES
Cruise Code: M2030 | Departs: Wed 11 Nov for 13 Nights
13 Nights From: £1569 Tenerife
Cruise Highlights: Southampton, UK > La Coruña, Spain > Funchal, Madeira, Portugal > Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain > Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, Spain > Arrecife, Spain > Lisbon, Portugal > Southampton, UK.
For further cruise information please visit fredolsencruises.com
For Friendly Help and Advice Call Us on 01564 797000
CRUISING
& Madeira
As temperatures begin to plummet in the UK, you’ll indulge in soothing warmth and discover astonishing wonders as Braemar brings you closer to four breathtaking islands in Macaronesia. In the Canaries, you could take in the Pyramids of Güímar and mighty Mount Teide in Tenerife; seek-out Gran Canaria’s oasis-like sand dunes and verdant forests; explore Lanzarote’s lunar-like landscapes; and much more. There’s a day in gorgeous Madeira too: perhaps trail the island’s unique levada walking routes; absorb the vibrant colours and sweet scents of tropical gardens; or take in spectacular ocean views from Cabo Girão – one of the world’s highest sea cliffs
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FRED. OLSEN’S MS BALMORAL
ALL ON-BOARD GRATUITIES INCLUDED
7 Nights From: £989
Balmoral is the largest of our ocean-going cruise ships, yet is still small enough to navigate size-restricted waterways such as the Kiel Canal, providing fantastic scenic cruising opportunities, and retains the warm, intimate and friendly atmosphere that the Fred. Olsen fleet is renowned for. Balmoral is named after the Scottish residence of the British Royal Family, and the Scottish theme runs throughout the main dining venues – the Ballindalloch, Avon and Spey. Featuring 710 well-appointed rooms and suites and a selection of comfortable lounges, bars and inviting public areas. For further ship information please visit fredolsencruises.com/our-ships.
Facilities overview
Spa
Spey restaurant
Superior outside cabin
CRUISING
2020 Cruise Pricing
Marquee bar
Cabin Grades
Cruise
Dates
Cruise Code
Nights
Superior Ocean View (B)
Ocean View (D)
Ocean View (E)
Interior Room (I)
Single Interior Room (N)
Capital Cities of the Baltic
Sun 2 – Sun 16 Aug 2020
L2019
14
£3019
£2639
£2569
£2069
£3569
Historic Cities & Waterways of Germany
Thu 17 – Thu 24 Sep 2020
L2024
7
£1439
£1279
£1259
£989
£1639
North American Waterways & Canadian Fall
Tue 29 Sep – Mon 2 Nov 2020
L2026
34
£7669
£6669
£6539
£5169
On Request
In Search of the Northern Lights
Tue 16 Feb – Mon 1 Mar 2021
L2104
13
£2569
£2309
£2209
£1769
£2969
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Enjoy the Views – Treasure the Memories
CAPITAL CITIES
HISTORIC CITIES & WATERWAYS
of the Baltic
of Germany
14 Nights From: £2069
7 Nights From: £989
St Petersburg
Bremen
Cruise Code: L2019 | Departs: Sun 2 Aug for 14 Nights
Cruise Code: L2024 | Departs: Thu 17 Sep for 7 Nights
With visits to six diverse destinations, including four charismatic capitals and the ‘Jewel in the Baltic Crown’, you’ll revel in an extensive list of unforgettable sights and experiences on this immersive cruise.
A classic cruise combining scenic cruising through gorgeous countryside and visits to attraction-packed destinations, this highly rewarding week away shows you Germany at its finest.
Cruise Highlights: Newcastle, UK > Copenhagen, Denmark > Riga, Latvia > St. Petersburg, Russia > Cruising Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden > Stockholm, Sweden > Visby, Sweden > Oslo, Norway > Newcastle, UK.
Cruise Highlights: Dover, UK > Cruising Weser River, Germany > Bremen, Germany > Kiel Canal Transit, Germany > Warnemünde, Germany > Kiel Canal Transit, Germany > Cruising River Elbe, Germany > Hamburg, Germany > Dover, UK.
NORTH AMERICAN WATERWAYS
IN SEARCH of the Northern Lights
& Canadian Fall
13 Nights From: £1769
Saint John, New Brunswick
Northern Lights
Cruise Code: L2026 | Departs: Tue 29 Sep for 34 Nights
Cruise Code: L2104 | Departs: Tue 16 Feb 2021 for 13 Nights
Experience the seasonal scenic splendour of North America’s East Coast in the fall, with rare scenic cruising of size-restricted rivers and waterways and visits to remarkable cities in the US and Canada.
Exploring Arctic Norway in the winter, you’ll revel in the jaw-dropping scenes and seasonal beauty of Europe’s northernmost region at the most magical time of the year to visit. The icing on the cake will be a chance to witness the astounding Northern Lights. Stopping overnight at Alta, you may – if you’re lucky – see Mother Nature’s awe-inspiring light show illuminate the night sky.
Cruise Highlights: Southampton, UK > St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada > Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada > Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada > Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada > Portland, ME, USA > Boston, MA, USA > Cruising Cape Cod Canal, USA > Cruising by Statue of Liberty, New York, USA > New York, USA > Cruising Hudson River, USA > Cruising Chesapeake & Delaware Canal, USA > Baltimore, USA > Hamilton, Bermuda > Ponta Delgada, Portugal > La Coruña, Spain > Southampton, UK.
Cruise Highlights: Southampton, UK > Molde, Norway > Narvik, Norway > Alta, Norway > Tromsø, Norway > Ålesund, Norway > Southampton, UK.
For further cruise information please visit fredolsencruises.com
Travel with Johnsons – Travel with Friends
CRUISING
34 Nights From: £5169
131
Travel with
Johnsons – Travel with
Friends! “Interesting tour programme. Excellent standard throughout! My first trip on my own and my first coach trip. Friendly companions, comfortable hotel, Every reason to do more of the same with Johnsons”
Booking Your Holiday is Easy! Once you have chosen your holiday, booking is easy! Call us, visit us, or book online.
Mrs Withers Sept 2019
CALL OUR SPECIAL APPROVED LOCAL AGENT Call our friendly Reservations Team on 01564 797000
01684 562406
Sign up to our E-Newsletter
Visit us, orWORLD book with anTRAVEL MALVERN approved Travel Agent 44 SOMERS PARK AVENUE MALVERN, WR14 1SD Book online at malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk
Introducing
Our Brand NEW
Coaches
4 4 4 4 4 4
to be the first to hear about promotions and the latest holiday and day excursion information. Visit www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk to sign up today!
Just 43 ‘First Class’ seats, with even more legroom for all! All seats have calf supports, so you can fully recline and put your feet up! USB charging points on all seats, plus free Wi-Fi on board Complimentary Hot and cold drinks Two large TV screens – follow the route as you go along and ‘see’ our couriers when they use the mic! An extra high passenger deck for even better sightseeing!
Our popular ‘Luxury Traveller’ holidays have become more luxurious! We’ve invested in two fabulous brand new touring coaches, that have all the features of our
And of course all Luxury Traveller customers will enjoy our usual added extras of a complimentary gift bag when boarding
well known ‘club class’ extra legroom coaches and much
plus our included sumptuous
more besides. Enjoy these special extras when you book
afternoon tea during the holiday.
a LUXURY TRAVELLER holiday.
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