A Grand Day Out Family Fun in the UK...
Issue 5
Museums & Exhibitions Historic Houses & Gardens Days Out in Oxfordshire Explore the English Riviera Discover Norfolk
SO MANY PLACES TO SEE AND THINGS TO DO!
Where families matter! With over 250 rescued and endangered primates of more than 20 different species, Monkey World is the largest primate rescue centre in the world! See the stars of TV’s “Monkey Life” then ‘monkey around’ in the south’s largest Great Ape adventure play area! Open to visitors every day, except Christmas Day!
Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre, Longthorns, Wareham, Dorset BH20 6HH
T: 01929 462537 E: apes@monkeyworld.org www.monkeyworld.org
WELCOME to Issue 5 With a huge range of ideas, destinations and attractions to discover, no matter what your taste or age, you will be spoilt for choice. From beautiful landscapes and stunning views to Stately Homes and Gardens, Steam Rides to Museums the UK boasts a rich variety and selection for you. There is something for everyone no matter how old or young you are. So be inspired, plan your next adventure and discover what the UK has to offer. We hope you enjoy reading through the magazine and that it gives you some inspiration for those family days out! Published by ProDigital Media AEM Media House 23 Northcote Avenue Manchester M22 9AJ
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CONTENTS: 26 Expe rience Ar
undel Ca
stle
04 Disc over Norf olk
32 Oxfordhsire Riviera h s li g n E e th re lo 20 Exp
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DISCOVER NORFOLK Norfolk is a great destination at any time of the year. The beautiful broads, Britain’s magical water land, internationally important nature reserves, hundreds of picturesque villages, historic market towns and Norwich, a heritage, entertainment and shopping gem, are just some of the delights on offer. Whether you enjoy cycling, golf, fishing, boating, visiting gardens and historic houses, shopping for local crafts and produce, exploring churches (Norfolk has the largest concentration of churches in the world) or love the traditional seaside holiday, Norfolk is the place for you. Explore historic Kings Lynn and Sandringham, the Queen’s home in Norfolk, enjoy Great Yarmouth with its world famous golden mile and don’t miss the coastal resorts of Hunstanton, Wells-next-the-sea, Sheringham, Lowestoft, Southwold, Aldeburgh and Felixtstowe. There are great festivals and events year round notably the Norfolk and Norwich Festival (May), The Royal Norfolk Show (June), the Kings Lynn Festival (July), The Norfolk Food and Drink Festival (All Year) and the Thursford Christmas Spectacular (November and December). WWW.AGRANDDAYOUT.NET
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West Norfolk is a truly special place of unspoilt charm and natural beauty. So near and easy to get to, it offers the feeling of really getting away from it all, whilst offering plenty of things to see and do for all the family. Set against a backdrop of stunning coastline and beautiful countryside, this wonderful side of Norfolk is a sheer pleasure to explore. Once discovered, you’ll want to come back again and again.
Castle Rising
Fun on the beach!
Brim full of history, West Norfolk is a treasure trove of historic houses, windmills and castles as well lots of beautiful churches and historic sites. A highlight of any trip is a visit to Sandringham House, the Royal Family’s county retreat, but also don’t miss out on the spectacular Norman Castle at Castle Rising, with its magnificent keep and massive earthworks, a real treat for all the family to explore. Splendid Houghton Hall, was home to Britain’s first Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole, the house, stunning walled garden and beautiful parkland making a great place to visit. Just a few miles away, is Bircham Windmill with its mill tower, bakery and animal attractions to explore. At Castle Acre, the ever so atmospheric Castle Acre Priory is just a short walk from the impressive remains of Castel Acre Castle. Further south near Downham Market, the classic moated Tudor manor house of Oxburgh Hall is great for all the family to explore, including the secret Priest’s Hole. Do take time to visit the ancient Saxon town of Downham Market, often known as the ‘Gingerbread Town’ with its buildings made from distinctive Norfolk Carrstone. With its bustling market on Fridays and Saturdays the town retains a really intimate feel with fine building café’s and pubs to enjoy. The wonderful coastline offers something special for all ages and at all times of year. The classic family resort of Hunstanton, offers all the elements of a great seaside holiday, with theatre, boat trips, sealife sanctuary, fun fair, seaside amusements, water sports and much more. Neighbouring Old Hunstanton with its beautiful beach, backed by pine trees and beach huts nestling amongst the dunes, has much of a village feel, with cottages built of Norfolk Carrstone, pubs, restaurants a craft centre and beachside tearoom. From the beaches at Hunstanton and neighbouring Heacham, West Norfolk’s wide sandy beaches stretch far along the coast. For relaxing on the beach on a sultry summer afternoon, or a brisk morning walk on a crisp winter’s day, the charm and easy access of West Norfolk will draw you back again and again.
The waterside town of King’s Lynn which has developed over 900 years of maritime and trading history, is brim full of heritage and has a wealth of stunning historic buildings. The magnificent Minster Church dominates beautiful Saturday Market Place, surrounded by many historic buildings and a maze of cobbled streets, courtyards and alleyways. Be sure to visit Stories of Lynn the town’s new attraction including the old gaol cells which tells the stories of merchants, explorers, magistrates and miscreants who have shaped the town’s history. Stop at the Custom House which is also home to the Tourist Information Centre and take a stroll along the historic riverfront where you’ll be tempted to stop off for a drink or bite to eat. A great way to discover the town is to follow the Maritime Trail or join one of the regular guided walks exploring all kinds of different stories and locations throughout the town. The free guide ‘Discover King’s Lynn’ is a great introduction to this historic town and features many other great attractions including True’s Yard Fisherfolk Museum and The Lynn Museum as well as the impressive South Gate and Red Mount Chapel which are both open during the summer months. Lovers of nature and the outdoors will love West Norfolk for its beautiful coastline and wonderful walking trails such as the Norfolk Coast Path, Peddars Way and Fen Rivers Way. Families will also enjoy getting close to nature at some of the area’s excellent nature reserves such as WWT Welney Wetland Centre near Downham Market and RSPB Titchwell on the coast, both of which have excellent visitors facilities and can provide a great introduction to discovering our wildlife.
King’s Lynn
Taking a stroll...
CONTACT DETAILS For more information about planning a day out or holiday in West Norfolk be sure to visit our website.
www.visitwestnorfolk.com
Before you visit, download out Free Visit West Norfolk App for details of places to eat and shop, attraction, activities and events through West Norfolk. When you visit be sure to visit our Tourist Information Centres at King’s Lynn. (Tel: 01553 763044) and Hunstanton (Tel: 01485 532610)
And relax...
Museum and Old Gaol Cells
Tour the old gaol cells, try on mayor’s robes, see the magnificent King John Cup and more! Open: Daily Tel: 01553 774297 Find us on Saturday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 5DQ For more information visit www.kingslynntownhall.com/storiesoflynn
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SNETTISHAM PARK Deer Safari Park & Farming Attraction
Enjoy a great day out All Year:
MAGICAL DEER SAFARI Friendly Farm Animals Children’s Play Area Visitor Centre & Tea Room Seasonal Activites:
Pony Trek Rides Lambing Bottle Feeding Orphan Lambs Egg Collecting Deer calving Sheep Shearing
OPEN DAILY 10am-5pm T:O1485 542425 PE31 7NG
www.snettishampark.co.uk
Norwich
Photo Credits: VisitNorwich
For the first time visitor or even a visitor who thinks they know Norwich, there are two things you should do on arrival; One is book a Guided Walking Tour (01603 213999) and two is jump on the Norwich CitySightSeeing open top bus. (www.awayadays.com) Both of these tours introduce the medieval street pattern of the city (which is great for orientation) and explain the intricacies and stories of the city going back centuries. Guided Walking Tours, operated by the Norwich Tourist Information Centre, cost £5 for a 90 minute tour – it’s one of the best ways to see get under the skin of Norwich. There is a general City of Centuries tour which guides you through Norwich over a thousand years or two new tours for 2017. One is ‘Words & Wanderings’ which is done with Literary Heroes in mind. In 2012 Norwich was the first English city to be awarded UNESCO City of Literature status therefore it goes without saying the city has a lot to share on this topic! The tour uncovers the stories of local writers who penned such titles as Black Beauty and Remains of the Day. The full programme and timetable is available on www.visitnorwich.co.uk From the Normans to the Millennium, CitySightseeing Tours take you through the city and up to one of the best views across Norwich at Mousehold Heath. Tickets for this tour are valid 24 hours so it’s a good to take if you want to jump off and on when you get to places such as Norwich Cathedral, Elm Hill, Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Plantation Garden, the Cathedral of St John the Baptist and Surrey House. Norwich has two cathedrals; the Anglican cathedral (http://www.cathedral.org.uk/) is one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe and has the largest Close and monastic cloisters in the country. By comparison the Cathedral of St John the Baptist (www.sjbcathedral.org.uk/the-narthex/) has some of the finest examples of great Victorian Gothic Revival Architecture in the UK with beautiful stained glass and stonework. Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery (http://www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk) just keeps getting better and better and with a constant schedule of touring exhibitions as well as their own exhibitions, there is always a reason to visit. The Museum’s magnificent Keep is worth seeing in its own right but mix this with incredible natural history displays, Saxon gold, the largest collection of ceramic teapots in the country, battlements and dungeons and more, you are on your way to a fantastic day out for all ages. WWW.AGRANDDAYOUT.NET
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Norwich is a city with stories (www.cityofstories.co.uk) but it is also a city with charming hidden gems; not always obvious places to go given the stature of other buildings in the city centre. The Museum of Norwich at The Bridewell (http://www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk) and Strangers’ Hall (http://www.museums.norfolk.gov. uk) are both exquisite historic buildings bursting at the seams with wonderful exhibits, hands-on displays and interpretations from Norfolk Museums Service. Surrey House is home to Marble Hall a stunning piece of architecture designed by local architect George Skipper commissioned by The Norwich Union Life Insurance Society’s directors. Today the building is home to Aviva (formally Norwich Union). The Palladian exterior is impressive but the interior is WOW with 15 varieties of marble, classically inspired frescos and a glass atrium. Whilst this is a working building, it is open to members of the public free of charge during office hours Monday to Friday. Free tours of the building can be booked by calling 01603 681062. Plantation Garden (http://plantationgarden.co.uk/) is Norwich’s secret garden, a 3 acre lush green spot, tranquil and inviting. Situated next to the Cathedral of St John the Baptist, it’s a perfect place to take a picnic or just to sit and contemplate. Enjoy its Gothic style fountain, flower beds, lawns, Italianate terrace, 'Medieval' terrace wall and more. On Sundays over the Summer they offer homemade afternoon teas! Those looking for ‘special’ shopping will not be disappointed in Norwich. The Mustard Shop and Museum is all about the Colman’s of Norwich story. See the memorabilia and browse the vintage inspired products but best of all take home a little pot if Colman’s English Mustard - the ceramic version is the cutest! Norwich also has a large award-winning independent department store called Jarrolds (http://www.jarrold. co.uk/). Jarrolds has been trading since 1823 and is still family run. Find quality brands and fashion labels, beauty treatments, a delightful book department with local books section plus numerous places to eat and drink as well as a deli so you can pick up local produce to take home; beer, wine, chocolates - need we go on? Country & Eastern (http://www.countryandeastern. co.uk/) is housed in a former Victorian skating rink and is magnificent. Not only for the building but also for the shop and exhibition space! Wind your way around far eastern artefacts and large pieces of furniture plus trinkets, jewellery and ethnic clothes as well as Balinese antiques and frequently changing art exhibitions. 12
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Photo Credit: VisitNorwich
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SMALL STORIES
The Tate Baby House, 1760 © Victoria and Albert Museum, London
AT HOME IN A DOLLS’ HOUSE
4 March - 25 June 2017 Advance tickets from: www.arttickets.org.uk Exhibition organised by
Sandringham House is the charming country retreat of Her Majesty The Queen hidden in the heart of sixty acres of beautiful wooded gardens. Still maintained in the style of Edward and Alexandra, Prince and Princess of Wales (later King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra), all the main ground floor rooms used by The Royal Family, full of their treasured ornaments, portraits and furniture, are open to the public. More family possessions are displayed in the Museum housed in the old stable and coach houses
including vehicles ranging in date from the first car owned by a British monarch, a 1900 Daimler, to a half-scale Aston Martin used by Princes William and Harry. A display tells the mysterious tale of the Sandringham Company who fought and died at Gallipolli in 1915, which was made into a TV film “All the King’s Men”. With so much to see and do, and a warm and friendly welcome when you visit, Sandringham is the epitome of English country house life.
Go back in time in Norfolk...
Bressingham has been the official home to the Dads Army Appreciation Society’s collection since 2000. The exhibition comprises a recreation of Walmington on Sea the fictional home to Captain Mainwaring and his men. The Church Hall, where we show episodes the Bressingham collection is featured in, Captain Mainwaring’s office – here you can try on Home Guard uniforms. Along the street there is Jones’ Butchers shop, Swallow Bank, Frasers Funeral parlour as well as Walmington on Sea Post Office, a printers and Toy Shop. Bressingham was happy to lend to the BBC some of its historic collection to feature in the show, Traction Engines and Rollers feature in episodes but probably the most memorable exhibit in the Bressingham collection is the Fire Engine. You can also see the staff car Pike took his girl to the pictures in, Jones’ Butchers Van and the town dustcart – both as featured in the feature film of the 1970s. The Television Series ‘Dad’s Army’ ran from 1968 to 1977 with a total of 80 episodes - and you can still catch the repeats to this
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day, over 30 years after the filming of the very first episode. Who can forget the inimitable characters played by Clive Dunn, Arthur Lowe, John Laurie, John Le Mesurier, Jim Beck, Ian Lavender, Arnold Ridley, Frank Williams, Edward Sinclair and Bill Pertwee! Not only did the show make household names of these main characters, but it also brought a host of other ‘comedy faces’ to our television screens for the very first time. The series was filmed in and around Thetford (including the Stanford training area) and included many local residents from the surrounding countryside. The release of the 2016 Feature Film only goes to show how the show has lived on un the minds of the public, and is always ready to gently amuse the young and the old of every generation. The Dads Army exhibition is housed amongst the steam exhibits of road and rail at Bressingham alongside 18 acres of stunning Bloom family gardens.
G a r d e n s | G a r d e n C e n t r e| S t e a m M u s e u m
w w w. br e s s i n g h a m . c o . u k
A Grand Day Out for All the Family
Open 10:30am - 5:00pm visit www.bressingham.co.uk for further details Tel 01379 686900
GO KID FR S EE
3 0 A P R I L – 2 6 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 7 Explore the grounds of Houghton Hall, encounter new works by Turner Prize-winning artist, Richard Long, alongside Houghton’s permanent sculpture collection, and unleash your family’s creativity.
Discover more at houghtonhall.com
Enjoy a picnic in our beautiful 00263 SSS grounds
1 30/10/2016 Explore the Sculpture Trails
2017 Adverts WTGINN V2 151x200 3mm Bleed Top and Sides 01b.pdf
“Where West End entertainment comes to the seaside. Great family enternainment - a must see in Norfolk” Tim Wardley, National Piers Society
“The show is fantastic and should be on everyoneʼs to do list. I love it!” Bradley Walsh
ly the ohn er f t e pi o end he t n i show !
d worl
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The only ‘End-of-the-Pier’ Show in The World, Now in its 40th year!
Our Pavilion Theatre is now the only Theatre at the end of a Pier that produces an in-house show every summer and winter season. The Cromer Pier Show is one of the few true live variety shows in Britain, showcasing live variety acts at their best. Our Theatre has approx. 500 seats making for an intimate experience but drawing quality acts who always enjoy returning to the stage here. Our shows provide you with an eclectic blend of great pop music, breath taking West End ballads, speciality acts and humour from top comedians. In the past we’ve had many now familiar names developing their careers here, including Bradley Walsh and Steve Hewlett, the hilarious and fabulously entertaining ventriloquist, who made it to the finals on Britain’s Got Talent 2013. The Cromer Pier Show is nationally famous as an “incubator” for true, quality talent for dancers, singers, actors, magicians, comedians and other variety acts so, by coming to one of our shows,you could be seeing the stars of
the future… Production values are extremely high. One of our intelligent lights that can change colour, move and show up different shapes costs over £14,000. Our summer show season typically includes over 150 costumes, 48 pairs of shoes, 40 pairs of tights, 33 hats, 31 fascinators and 24 petticoats, all made by just two people! The record for the quickest costume change took just 17 seconds! We also use 100KGs of glitter and 220 metres of LED lighting on stage sets. Each year the summer show cast put on 2 different shows, which run weekly and change over every Thursday, so you can catch both shows in the same week! We then showcase the best bits from the two shows in ‘The Best of The Cromer Pier Show’ which runs for the last two weeks of the run in mid September.
ancient Europe. A fun and exciting all-weather option for the visitor, Kents Cavern has fascinating guided tours plus a great programme of events. www.kents-cavern.co.uk
Yachting, Café Culture, Shopping Torquay has been a fashionable haven since the 19th century and the waterfront area remains very much the focus of life in the town. Part of the UNESCOrecognised English Riviera Global Geopark, Torquay is internationally renowned for its beautiful coastline and diversity of landscape, wildlife and culture. There is a picturesque harbour with great shopping, many waterside restaurants, cafés and bars to choose from and delightful palm tree-lined promenades framing the marina. www.mdlmarinas.co.uk/mdl-torquay-marina Agatha Christie Dame Agatha Christie, the world's most famous mystery and crime writer, was born in Torquay in 1890 and lived for many years in the area. Many of the English Riviera’s locations can be recognised in her novels and the area is popular with Christie fans from around the world. www.englishriviera.co.uk/agathachristie Beaches, Boat Trips and Birds Torquay is known for its beautiful beaches, including Torre Abbey Sands and Meadfoot Beach, and there are a wealth of boat trips and water sports to enjoy off the coast. There are also some truly world-class tourist attractions, including Living Coasts, the award winning coastal zoo and conservation charity. Here the whole family can have fun meeting the freeroaming penguins, watching the fur seals and learning about the natural habitats of a wide range of marine species. www.livingcoasts.org.uk
Royal Terrace Gardens – Spectacular Illuminated Staircase / Geopark Platform A stroll through the beautiful Princess Gardens towards Torre Abbey Sands and along the promenade will take you to the Royal Terrace Gardens. Here there is a stunning illuminated staircase up the cliffs which leads you to the new Geopark viewing platform. This has to be one of the best view points across South Devon’s Beautiful Bay. Cockington – Quintessentially English Village and Craft Centre A mile from Torquay seafront you will find Cockington, often described as the prettiest village in England; the world-famous thatched village has remained virtually untouched throughout the centuries. Cockington Court, a 17th century manor house surrounded by a beautiful country park, houses a number of craft studios where you can watch artists at work before enjoying a delicious cream tea. www.cockingtoncourt.org Nightlife Of course, Torquay is also renowned for its nightlife, with a wide range of excellent restaurants, a top quality theatre and a vibrant choice of bars and nightclubs. Torquay is also a winner of the Purple Flag award. To find out more visit: www.englishriviera.co.uk/whats-on
Kents Cavern This spectacularly beautiful underground cave system is a National Protected Monument, an International Prehistoric Show Cave and a Gateway Site for the English Riviera Global Geopark. Kents Cavern is by far the most important prehistoric cave dwelling in Britain and is known around the world for its archaeological record of prehistoric human life in WWW.AGRANDDAYOUT.NET
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DID YOU KNOW? 1. Lord Churston’s Bathhouse - Beautiful Elberry Cove near Paignton boasts the fascinating ruins of the 18th Century bathhouse where Lord Churston used to take a dip. Elberry Cove is also the scene of one of Agatha Christie’s ABC murders and is just a few miles from Agatha Christie’s home at Greenway. 2. Ghost Walks, Brixham – rumoured to be one of the most haunted places in Britain, regular ghost walks take place in this picturesque, but spooky harbour town. 3. Guillemots at Berry Head – Berry Head in Brixham is home to the largest breeding colony of guillemots on the south coast and every summer visitors can watch the amazing spectacle of hundreds of chicks making the death-defying jump off the 200ft cliffs into the sea. 4. Home of Ancient Humans – By far the most important prehistoric cave dwelling in Britain can be found in Torquay at Kents Cavern. An upper jaw bone found there is believed to be the oldest in Europe. 5. The Perfect Storm – In 1866 A great gale swept Torbay in January, causing the loss of over 60 ships and the tragic loss of nearly 100 lives. As a result, the RNLI established the lifeboat station at Brixham and the people of Exeter raised money for the first lifeboat, City of Exeter. 6. The Man They Couldn’t Hang – John ‘Babbacombe’ Lee became famous as “the man they could not hang”. Convicted murderer John Lee, who killed a wealthy spinster at Babbacombe Cliffs, survived three attempts to hang him in 1885. As a result his death sentence was commuted to life imprisonment. 7. Oldest Monastery - Built in 1196 Torre Abbey is not only Torquay’s oldest building, but also the best surviving mediaeval monastery in Devon and Cornwall. 8. Torquay’s Spanish Prisoners - Having defeated the Spanish Armada in 1588, Sir Francis Drake held 400 prisoners in the Tithe Barn at Torre Abbey in Torquay. Drake circumnavigated the world in 1580 and a replica of his ship the Golden Hind has been a popular tourist attraction in Brixham harbour since 1964. 22
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9. Singer Sewing Machines – Paignton’s beautiful Oldway Mansion was the home of Isaac Singer, where he entertained his colourful friends and where his son, Paris, danced with the beautiful Isadora Duncan. 10. Global Geopark – The English Riviera, home to the coastal towns of Torquay, Brixham, Paignton and Babbacombe Bay is one of very few worldwide destinations designated a UNESCO endorsed Global Geopark, because of the amazing geology that has helped form its spectacular coastline and undersea world.
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STEP INTO THE
STONE
AGE DISCOVER
ENJOY
RELAX
what life was like in Ice Age Torquay along the Woodland Trail.
exceptional coastal walks from Kents Cavern.
in the café, gardens and shop without visiting the caves.
MAMMOTH SAVINGS ONLINE WWW.KENTS-CAVERN.CO.UK Torquay, Devon, TQ1 2JF • 01803 215136
Experience Arundel Castle
Arundel Castle will reopen on 1 April 2017, and will be open Tuesdays to Sundays inclusive, May Bank Holiday Mondays & August Mondays. Please visit www.arundelcastle.org for the full 2017 events calendar.
In a survey carried out by heritage building company Rudridge, the ancient Castle topped local peoples’ hit-list and, with over 12 thrilling events lined up this year, it’s hoped the Castle can retain this impressive accolade in 2017 – which also happens to be the 950th anniversary of the initial construction. Open from April to October, Arundel Castle is the perfect place for groups to both unwind and get engrossed in a rip-roaring ride through the history of Sussex. Group visitors can take advantage of reduced ticket prices plus free admission for group organisers, tour guides, teachers and supervisors. Plus, coach drivers will also be given free coach parking, free admission and a complimentary restaurant voucher. The event season begins on 8 April, with one of two new additions - Warriors of Arundel Castle. Hosted once again by the practised professionals at Raven Tor Living History Group, the event will bring key moments of the Castle’s fascinating 950-year history to life through costume, crafts, weapons and combat displays. A crowd favourite among car-enthusiasts is the thrilling MG Owner’s Club Gathering which takes place on 9 April. Over 150 gleaming MG cars ranging in age from the late 1920s to the modern day MGF sports models will be on display as members
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showcase their very own pieces of motoring history. April also sees the return of one of the Castle’s bestloved attractions – the annual Tulip Festival. With over 36,000 colourful blooms, this year’s display is the largest ever showcased at the Castle. Green-fingered fanatics should also take time to visit during May and June when eruptions of pom-pom headed Alliums explode into flower and brightly tower over neighbouring plants. Another popular event during the summer season is the Castle Siege which will run from 27 – 29 May. The event, which catapults visitors back to 1475, sees French and English troops battle it out to take command of the ancient Castle. This three-day event is a fascinating opportunity to experience all elements of medieval warfare, with displays including hand to hand combat, sword fights, archery demonstrations and weaponry showcases featuring axes, halberds and hand guns. Castle Manager, Bryan McDonald explains: “This year we celebrate our 950th anniversary and to mark such a significant occasion, we have put together an exciting calendar of new and popular events to suit everyone. We look forward to welcoming groups to our historical grounds and castle in what we hope will be another record-breaking year for visitor numbers.”
Ancient Castle, Stately Home & Gardens for more details, call 01903 882173 or visit www.arundelcastle.org
Kelmscott Manor was the inspirational country home of William Morris; poet, designer, craftsman, socialist and founding father of the Arts and Crafts movement and described by him as “Heaven on Earth”. This Grade I listed house was loved by Morris as a survival of traditional craftsmanship in harmony with the nearby village and surrounding landscape, which lies towards the very upper reaches of the Thames, inspiring many of his most important designs and writings, including the world-famous Willow pattern. Today, visitors will find an outstanding collection, from early 17th Century furniture to unique furnishings chosen by Pre-Raphaelite painter-poet Dante Gabriel Rossetti and pieces from each of Morris’ London homes, including several designed especially for the iconic Red House. Morris’ wife Jane and daughter May also have a vivid presences at Kelmscott Manor: many examples reflect their beautiful and accomplished needlework, including a beautiful child’s cot cover which has been recently been brought back to the Manor. Perhaps the most famous portrait of Jane Morris by Rossetti, The Blue Silk Dress completed in 1868 currently hangs in the White Room. The domestic charm and ambience of the house is still retained, despite having influenced Pre-Raphaelite art and design and the Arts & Crafts Movement, a legacy still very much treasured today. Kelmscott Manor also boasts enchanting gardens and the River Thames is located just a few hundred yards away. The Tearoom, with its friendly staff and delicious home-made meals and cakes, is a must, whilst the Shop is packed with decorative and unusual items ideal for gifts or mementoes.
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Kelmscott Manor is open on Wednesday and Saturday between April and the end of October. Visit our website www.kelsmscottmanor.org.uk or telephone 01367 252486 for more information.
Open every Wednesday & Saturday April – October 11am – 5pm Explore the historic manor loved by designer William Morris, Father of the Arts & Crafts Movement. Discover original designs and items collected by Morris and his associates. Take a stroll around the Manor’s enchanting gardens, barns, dovecote, stream and meadow. Enjoy home-made locally sourced food in our licensed Tearoom and visit our shop to find a variety of gifts and exclusive souvenirs.
BROUGHTON CASTLE Banbury Oxfordshire OX15 5EB Tel 01295 276070 info@broughtoncastle.com www.broughtoncastle.com
Historic 14th House within moat. Location for many films including Shakespeare in Love Walled garden with old roses and fine herbaceous borders Tearoom and Shop - Free Car park 2 Miles from Banbury on B4035
Our opening times for 2017 are: 2-5pm on Wednesdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays from 1st April until 30th September.
Experience Oxfordshire
Oxfordshire is the perfect place for a quintessentially English trip. Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend away, a family friendly summer holiday or a day trip to see the dreaming spires of Oxford, there’s something for everyone in the county. It couldn’t be easier to get to, being only an hour away by train on the Great Western Railway or Chiltern Railway lines. Alternatively you can hop on one either the Oxford Bus Company’s X90 coach or Stagecoaches’ Oxford Tube at a host of different spots across the capital and get to Oxfordshire for a bargain price. The city of Oxford is rich in culture, history and heritage. Home to the oldest University in the English speaking world, every step you take in Oxford is following in the footsteps of great figures through history. As a fairly small city, in Oxford it’s easy to reach everything on foot, so why not take of advantage of this and explore the entire city on an Oxford Official Walking Tour. The Oxford University and City Tour is a fantastic way to explore the city, illustrating the history of Oxford and the University, and traditions of its most famous buildings and institutions. The city is awash with fabulous museums. The Ashmolean is the oldest university museum in the world. Take a visit and see collections ranging from Egyptian mummies to contemporary art, as well as fantastic temporary collections. The Museum of Natural History is another delight, where you can see the University of Oxford’s internationally recognised collection of zoological specimens, including the Oxfordshire dinosaurs and the Dodo! If you venture to Long Wittenham you can visit the Pendon Museum, and discover what the Vale of the White Horse was like in the 1920s and 1930s thanks to their miniature village, and see an enthralling record of the railways of the time. More rail history can be found at Didcot Railway Centre, where they have recreated the golden age of Great Western Railway, and they also run regular day family events where you can meet Thomas the Tank Engine and friends,
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For glorious walks, beautiful plants, scrumptious food and fabulous gifts, visit Batsford Arboretum and Garden Centre.
Alternatively you could visit the quirky Story Museum, where you can step through a wardrobe to Narnia, snuggle up in a ginormous bed and listen to a story or explore their fantastic, immersive Animal exhibition – this one’s a favourite for the kids and parents alike! Down in the south of Oxfordshire is the River & Rowing Museum in Henley-on-Thames. This is home to three galleries dedicated to rowing, rivers and the history of town, and of course there’s the wonderful Wind in the Willows exhibition – an interactive celebration of the magic of Ratty, Mole and Mr Toad. And if you’re in Henley why not hop on one of the Hobbs of Henley river cruises and experience Oxfordshire from the water? Oxfordshire is a great destination for families, with a host of exciting and interesting attractions to suit those of all ages. In central Oxford you could take a trip around the Oxford Castle on an Oxford Castle Unlocked tour, where there costumed guides will regale you with fascinating stories as you explore 1000 years of history.
Just a mile from historic Moreton-in-Marsh, Batsford Arboretum is a great day out for all the family and Cotswold Tourism’s Large Visitor Attraction of the Year 2013. Visit our website at www.batsarb.co.uk to find out more and for news of our lovely events.
BATSFORD ARBORETUM & GARDEN CENTRE Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9AB 01386 701441 arboretum@batsfordfoundation.co.uk www.batsarb.co.uk Open every day except Christmas Day, 10am to 5pm. WWW.AGRANDDAYOUT.NET
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SECRETS REVEALED Discover the top secret Codebreaking world of WW2 Bletchley Park, where pencils and brains helped win the war.
Junction 13 on the M1 or just 45 minutes from London Euston railway station. Open daily to visitors. www.bletchleypark.org.uk
Open Weds - Sun 11am - 5pm
Plus bank holidays & some school holidays
Take a step back in time and watch the Severn Valley Railway trains steam across the hill from one of our magnificent signposted walks. Arley Arboretum & Gardens provide an idyllic escape into nature and history for you and your family to learn, laugh and play.
Family Fun at Arley
We have plenty of fun and adventures for the whole family to enjoy! Maze Find your way to the centre of our twisty, turny maze to find the castle!
Kid’s Woodland Trails Collect your free activity sheets, follow the clues, answer the questions and claim a prize!*
DelMar Play Trail Swing, Climb, Balance and Slide in our outdoor adventure play area under the trees.
Garden Tea Room Selection of freshly prepared hot and cold food, handmade cakes and a range of beverages.
Forestry Adventure Club (2-12yrs) From Bug Hunts to Story Telling, Campfire Songs and Cooking! On select days during school holidays. Discounts available for siblings.
Adults £5 Childre n £2 (Under Fami
3’s Free )
(2 Adult ly £15 s&4C hildren )
Forestry Adventure Club (2-12yrs) Bug Hunts, Campfire Songs, Cooking & More! £5 per child (Additional siblings £4.50) Select days throughout the school holidays
Advance bookings only 01299 861368
offers! & s ew n , ts en ev r fo k o o b Every Thursday during Follow us on Face term time £4 per session Mini Adventurers Club (Under 5’s)
k .u o .c m u t e r o b r a www.arley
Children’s Birthday Parties Available See website for details
*T&C’s apply. Some events on select days only. Some features are an additional cost. Please check website for more information. E&OE. The Roger & Douglas Turner Charitable Trust. Reg. No. 1154467
Join us at Arley Arboretum and Gardens for a day of nature with friends or the family. During the most school holiday’s children under 16 get free admission. We have children’s activity trails, a maze and a play area to keep the little ones occupied for the whole day. Visit our website at www.arleyarboretum.co.uk for dates of our extra activities including forest school, mini adventurers, pond dipping, leaf recognition, mini beast safari and our nature explorers.
Discover Worcestershire
Take a step back in time and wander freely around our 40 acres of pure nature with 3 acres enclosed by listed walls including our beautiful Italian Garden with its magnificent fountain. Stop at our viewing point to look across the River Severn to see the timeless Severn Valley Railway steaming past. We have recently introduced two blue peacocks and two white peacocks and some doves to go with our chickens in our walled garden. There are around 600 species of trees at the arboretum including, Crimean Pines, Cedars and Wellingtonias, some of which are the UK’s tallest and widest in girth and date back to the founding of the arboretum in the 1820s. There are also stunning magnolias, an acer garden and the UKs longest Laburnum arch. We have a tea room which provides hot and cold drinks with snacks and light hot and cold meals, or you can enjoy the use of our picnickers’ area and bring your own picnic. We are also dog friendly as long as they are kept on a lead. So put on a good pair of shoes and come and join us for the day, for exercise, education and lots of fresh air.
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Come and visit the
Thames Barrier Information Centre The Thames Barrier is one of the largest moveable flood barriers in the world. It protects over 125 square kilometers of London and over 375,000 properties, historic buildings including the Houses of Parliament, offices, power supplies, tube lines and hospitals to name a few.
If your group would like to learn even more about the Thames Barrier, then we recommend booking a Group Talk. One of our Information Assistants will guide you through the centre and give a talk about the River Thames, its environment and the Thames Barrier.
Visit the Thames Barrier Information Centre to view this amazing structure, find out how it was designed, built and how it works.
Our cafĂŠ overlooks the Barrier so you can enjoy the view whilst enjoying the snacks and light lunches we have on offer.
We have parking on site for cars and coaches.
Please telephone or visit our website for opening times and prices. Tel: 020 8305 4188 www.gov.uk/the-thames-barrier
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In 2014, the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire was voted top National Treasure in a poll of Lottery-funded projects beating off stiff competition. It has not been resting on its laurels since and has recently opened its new £15.7m Remembrance Centre on the 150-acre site which contains around 30,000 maturing trees. The Arboretum contains hundreds of memorials, ranging from the iconic Armed Forces Memorial, which bears the names of more than 16,000 Service personnel who have been killed on duty or as a result of terrorism since World War II, to the reconstructed Bastion Memorial, which is based on the design of the former Bastion Memorial Wall built in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Entry into the grounds of the Arboretum is free everyday throughout the year. Pre booked group parties of ten or more however can benefit from discounted entry into the new Landscapes of Life exhibition. This new area which features an immersive audio-visual theatre - showing personal stories of Remembrance, an informative Remembrance timeline charting history from the Bronze Age to the present day; and interactives, for visitors of all ages, including an area to record your own personal stories. Included in the entry price for the exhibition is access to the Arboretum’s temporary exhibition gallery, where you can currently view artist Robert Perry’s ‘Echoes of War’ exhibition and an audio guide which can be used to explore and learn about 93 of the memorials across the Arboretum site.
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Meals and refreshments are available in the large, stylish restaurant and separate coffee shop. The new centre opens out into a beautiful outdoor area called Heroes’ Square, which draws visitors into the wider Arboretum through a landscaped garden and provides a great location to rest and reflect. The Arboretum is the perfect venue for group days out and offers a range of packages for groups of all interests and ages. They can include a variety of dining options, talks and tours. Parking is also free for coaches, and coach drivers are offered a free refreshment voucher. Group visits can be timed to coincide with one of the hundreds of events that take place at the Arboretum each year including Armed Forces Day; Remembrance Sunday
commemorations; a Christmas craft and gift fair, and Carols by Candlelight. In 2017, the Arboretum will commemorate the Battle of Passchendaele (3rd Battle of Ypres) with a programme of activities and events. For more information on the Arboretum, in Alrewas, which is centrally located and easily accessible from the A38, M42, M1 and M6 please visit www.thenma.org.uk.
Images courtesy of the National Memorial Arboretum WWW.AGRANDDAYOUT.NET
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Visit Nottinghamshire
(Apr – Sept)
For more info email: info@gcrn.co.uk
(Apr – Oct)
Find us on: Facebook & Twitter
Saturdays & Sundays 10am till 5pm Mere Way, Ruddington Nottingham, NG11 6JS
Visit: www.gcrn.co.uk
For more info or to book tickets online
WORLD EXCLUSIVE EXHIBITION COMING TO EUROPE FOR THE FIRST TIME
WOLLATON HALL AND LAKESIDE ARTS 1 JULY – 29 OCTOBER 2017 GET YOUR TICKETS NOW AT
www.bit.ly/dinoticket
until now only been shown in China, will be accessible in the UK. There will be 3D dinosaur skeletons and small flattened bird-like skeletons preserved in the rock. Genuine dinosaur fossils and prehistoric birds showing that skin and feathers will be available to view. These new dinosaur discoveries are helping palaeontologists to understand how the prehistoric beasts on display relate to the birds we live alongside today.
World Exclusive! - Dinosaurs of China 1 July- 29 October 2017 Grab your tickets now and join the Dinosaur Revolution as Dinosaurs of China opens at Wollaton Hall and Nottingham Lakeside Arts this summer. The exhibition will include giant skeletons and a range of smaller bird-like dinosaurs to tell the newly understood story of how birds evolved from dinosaurs. For the first time, specimens that have
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Dinosaurs on display will include Gigantoraptor, the largest bird-like dinosaur ever found, and Yi qi, the bat-like flying dinosaur. Visitors will also meet Sinraptor - one of the most terrifying dinosaurs of the Jurassic age and Mei long, approximately 15 cm long - so would fit in the palm of your hand! Sinraptor was one of the most terrifying dinosaurs of the Jurassic age. It was 3 metres high and over 7 metres long. It used its long legs and sharp claws to catch unsuspecting prey. Its agility and speed makes it one of the most terrifying dinosaurs of its time and one of the most ferocious dinosaurs on display at the Dinosaurs of China exhibition.
The name Mei long stems from the Chinese ‘Mei’, meaning to sleep soundly and ‘long’, meaning dragon. Hence, Mei long is the ‘sleeping dragon’. It is only 53cm long (but curled up into a sleeping pose, approximately 15 cm long) It is coiled into a sleeping pose with its tail wrapped around its body and its head tucked under its arm, similar to how a bird tucks its head under its wing when resting. This shows that in addition to having feathers, some dinosaurs adopted bird-like behaviour and postures.
revelation that birds are really dinosaurs. There are activities for all the family and the chance to meet Diana Saurus – a lively safari guide who will be at Lakeside Arts throughout the exhibition delivering family fun activities. Visit www.lakesidearts.org.uk for full details. Wollaton Hall Nottingham NG8 2AE Wollaton Hall is one of England’s finest Grade I listed The star attraction is Mamenchisaurus - 22 metres Elizabethan mansions, set in 500 acres of beautiful long from head to tail. However, this is too big to fit gardens and deer roaming parkland. Most easily in Wollaton Hall, and so our skeleton has been surprising is that amidst the period room settings of especially mounted in a rearing posture to fit in the this architecturally stunning landmark is building. At a towering 13 metres tall this will make it Nottingham’s Natural History Museum and home to the tallest mounted dinosaur skeleton in the UK. over 750,000 specimens. Nottingham Lakeside Arts will be welcoming the Dilophosaurus and an Alxasaurus as part of the world exclusive exhibition of feathered dinosaurs. Entrance is free. Visitors will experience an interactive exhibition which tells the story of paleo-art, and discover how science and art help us to figure out how dinosaurs may have looked. Become a Palaeontologist for a day, and investigate the
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V sit
Newark
Home of the National Civil War Centre www.newarkhub.com
Coach drop off point in the Town Centre
CIVIL
AT N
WA R
TRE
NEW
Free Coach Parking in Newark
CEN
IO
N
AL
Call the Visitor Gateway on 01636 655 765
ARK
The historic Civil War town where one King lost his life and another lost his Kingdom
NATIONAL CIVIL WAR CENTRE, APPLETONGATE, NEWARK, NOTTINGHAMSHIRE, NG24 1JY
WWW.NATIONALCIVILWARCENTRE.COM
Newark has seen plenty of history in its time.
Bad King John breathed his last in the town’s formidable castle and the climax of the Wars of the Roses was fought nearby. But its most dramatic moments came during the epic 17th century conflict between King and Parliament when 16,000 troops besieged the Royalist outpost for six months. The Nottinghamshire town’s fall marked the end of the first phase of the British Civil Wars and standing in the wonderful cobbled market square it’s easy to be transported back to those turbulent days. With its half-timbered buildings, formidable castle and nearby earthen siege-works, this is the nation’s finest civil war landscape, creating a wonderful backdrop to re-enactment events. Fittingly, Newark is now home to the UK’s first National Civil War Centre, devoted to telling the story of how a King was supplanted by a squire and the world was turned upside down! Amazing tales of tragedy, heroism and loyalty are told through a fabulous combination of artefacts, cutting-edge technology and colourful films. Find out how surgeons of the day defied the odds to save lives and marvel at the giant wheelchair of Sir Thomas Fairfax, Oliver Cromwell’s boss. Exciting family events are also staged throughout the year, climaxing with an amazing civil war festival in early May. Michael Constantine, Manager of the National Civil War Centre, explained: “We have a hands on approach and tell the story through the eyes of ordinary people caught in the crossfire, not just the Kings, Queens and generals. You can try your hand at being a civil war gunner, feel the weight of period armour on your shoulders and witness a fly-by of Newark as it appeared in 1643, bristling with defences like an angry hedgehog. We also have a wonderful wrap-round cinema showing costumed blockbusters inspired by events which occurred in Newark.”
As a fabulous bonus the National Civil War Centre has stepped outside its normal time period to host a UK-first exhibition on Lawrence of Arabia. It showcases the results of ten years’ research by archaeologists in the deserts of Jordan, bidding to unravel the true story behind this iconic figure. View never before seen artefacts recovered from the desert used by Lawrence and his fighters and glimpse the robes he wore and the chest he used to carry gold to pay the Arabs to fight the Turks. Newark has a fantastic timeless quality and with its old inns and fine cafes and restaurants there’s never been a better time to visit.
The National Civil War Centre is open 10am to 4pm daily (5pm from March 2017). Website www.nationalcivilwarcentre.com Twitter @civilwarcentre Facebook www.facebook.com/NationalCivilWarCentre
City of Heritage “Unlock castle prison walls or admire Georgian splendour. Lancaster is one of England’s Heritage Cities with a big story to tell” Request or download our guide for groups which includes itinerary suggestions
VISITLANCASTER.ORG.UK With its mix of great places to eat & drink, castles & museums, impressive theatre and some fantastic events, Lancaster is a city which is well worth exploring for a group visit. Lancaster’s history can be traced back thousands of years and that is no better displayed than by having a guided tour of Lancaster Castle, which dominates the Lancaster skyline. Whenever you choose to visit, you’ll be delighted with the evening entertainment available to group organisers with plays, musicals and shows at the The Dukes and the Grand Theatre. For views across the city, head up to the Ashton Memorial, one of the grandest of English follies. The memorial is set within the beautiful parkland of Williamson Park which provides some great panoramic views across Morecambe Bay to the Lakeland Fells. Muse over fine exhibitions and collections at the city’s museums, including the Maritime Museum on the historic quayside, telling tales of Lancaster’s past. Other historic places of interest include Lancaster Cathedral with its tower standing over 240ft tall. Lancaster offers a rewarding Shopping Experience with two wellestablished shopping centres, all the big high street names and lots of individual retailers in a network of pedestrianised streets. Lancaster’s fantastic Charter Market is on Wednesdays and Saturdays which adds something extra to see. Also hidden away down charming narrow lanes are even more unique shops and eating-places housed in historic buildings. There is also a huge selection of independent Cafés and Restaurants, many catering for groups and serving specialist foods. There is a good value Coach Park in the heart of the city and great value Hotels in Lancaster and nearby Morecambe that cater specially for parties, offering competitively priced group rates and incentives to drivers/group organisers.
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01524 582394
Williamson Park Photo Credit Diana Jarvis The Music Room Cafe Photo Credit Joe Mather
D I S C OV E R WHERE THE
PA S T M E E T S
T H E
PRESENT
Visit Lancashire’s historic home and be transported back in time, where ghosts walk the rooms and history comes alive. From exhibitions and family events to fantastic food and local Lancashire produce.... Samlesbury Hall has something for everyone.
Sunday - Friday 11am to 4pm Occasional Fri closing Saturdays - Closed FREE ENTRY
Preston New Road Samlesbury Preston PR5 0UP
T: 01254 812010
info@samlesburyhall.co.uk
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Explore Kent
Nestled in idyllic countryside, award-winning Chiddingstone Castle offers a memorable day out for all the family. The former home of the late antiquarian Denys Eyre Bower, the castle now houses his fascinating Egyptian, Buddhist, Jacobean, Stuart and Japanese collections including incredible Samurai armour and swords and treasures from ancient Egypt.
Discover a charming country house, home to a fascinating collection of art and antiquities, with a Tea Room serving scrumptious cream teas.
Group visitors welcome throughout the year. Pre-booking essential.
www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk
01892 870347
Discover Victorian ‘upstairs downstairs’ rooms and enjoy dressing up and craft activities. The castle sits in 35 acres of beautiful grounds complete with a lake, a rose garden, woodland walks and a Grade II listed Orangery. The delightful Tea Room located in the former Buttery also has sunny courtyard seating and serves delicious home-made cakes, traditional cream teas and light lunches, and a visit to the unique Well Tower Gift Shop complements every visit. The Tudor village of Chiddingstone can be accessed from the grounds. Open Sunday to Wednesday from April to the end of October. www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk Chiddingstone, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7AD
Every journey ends with a memory. A day on the Severn Valley Railway is a day to remember. Take the people you love and make some memories that will last forever.
Severn Valley Railway Families
KIDDERMINSTER · BEWDLEY · BRIDGNORTH
www.svr.co.uk