A GRAND DAY OUT
FOR GROUPS IN THE UK Issue 12
SUSSEX & ESSEX
DEVON
DERBYSHIRE & THE PEAK DISTRICT STOKE ON TRENT & THE POTTERIES PLACES TO VISIT & THINGS TO DO WITH YOUR GROUP
RHS Registered Charity No. 222879/SC038262
Discover beautiful gardens and endless inspiration. Members go free. Your visit supports our work as a charity.
WELCOME to Issue 12
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 21 Northcote Avenue Manchester M22 9AJ
GET IN TOUCH: 0161 900 8872 www.agranddayout.net Sales and Marketing: marketing@agranddayout.net Accounts and Admin: info@agranddayout.net Creative Design : JAM
CONTENTS:
09 Staff ordshire & The Pot teries You can follow us on Twitter @agranddayoutnet Find us on Facebook A Grand Day Out
& 25 DerbakysDhirisetrict The Pe
sex 39 Sussex & Es
No part of this publication may be reproduced, sold or transmitted in any form without the prior written permission of the publisher. Permission is only deemed valid if approval is in writing.
A Group Day Out in
Devon
WELCOME
It’s always a pleasure to welcome groups here at Kents Cavern. In our spectacular natural cave system, we’ll take you through a journey of over 400 million years, through ancient passages and huge cave chambers. Our award-winning attraction, with a café and gift shop, is a short walk from local beaches and the beautiful South West Coast Path and is a gateway for the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark. The tour of the cave gives an amazing insight into Ice Age life and an opportunity to see naturally formed chambers, stunning geological formations and to walk through an underground world that was once home to Europe’s first humans. We operate guided tours of the cavern all year round, 7 days a week, except on Christmas Day. Request a groups brochure and you will find 12 difference ways to enjoy a visit to Kents Cavern. These include “Taste of South Devon” and “Combination Day Trips” experiences which we will manage for you. 04
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We can promise you a great and friendly welcome. Don’t take our word for it, have a look at our Trip Advisor reviews. Our guided tours are entertaining, humorous but above all, they reveal the remarkable story of Kents Cavern, a place that has entertained humankind for over 500,000 years….it must surely be time for your group to visit. Contact Details: Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves Cavern House Ilsham Road Torquay Devon TQ1 2JF Tel: 01803 215136 Email: caves@kents-cavern.co.uk
CAVES STEP INTO THE
STONE
AGE EXPLORE
EXPERIENCE
RELAX
Britain’s earliest humans in the UK’s most accessible cave
interactive on-site exhibits and artefacts
in Firestone Kitchen without visiting the caves
MAMMOTH SAVINGS ONLINE WWW.KENTS-CAVERN.CO.UK
Torquay, Devon, TQ1 2JF • 01803 215136
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Go on an adventure through a tropical rain forest and get up close and personal with our wonderful collection of animals! There are too many reasons to not visit! • £1,000,000 refurbishment • New animals with more on the way • New events calendar • New animal handling sessions • New ‘Meet the Zoo Keeper’ talks • New Rain Forest Ranger Trails • Plus many more! Your adventure starts here!
01792 474555 plantasiaswansea.co.uk
FREE TOURS FOR GROUPS OF 10+
y!
Group Days Out in
SWANSEA
Plantasi: the unique all weather Rain Forest Zoo.
Fast approaching its 30th birthday, and following a £1,000,000 redevelopment; Plantasia is the very unique Rainforest Zoo in the heart of Swansea. On a visit to Plantasia you will embark on an adventure through a tropical rainforest, get up close and personal with our animals, and discover a variety of rare and exotic plants. The recent transformation of the venue has heralded a new lease of life for the attraction with visitor numbers growing daily. The history of Plantasia spans over 29 years where it started life as an abundant Rainforest with a large array of tropical and exotic plants, all housed in a giant glass pyramid. Over time the venue has grown its variety of fauna, and added to this by acquiring a Zoo licence. This has enabled the venue to positively influence the guest experience and add to what our visitors see, and interact with. The Zoo status has enabled Plantasia to acquire over 40 species of animals, including Meerkats, Marmoset Monkeys, Crocodiles, a Leopard Cat, and many more. So, whether your interest is Plants or Animals, we can deliver a great experience for your party. As Plantasia is housed in one of the most unique buildings you will see in the country, it can boast
all-weather status, and is the perfect venue to visit whatever the weather outside is. With its own climate control system, it certainly is ‘sunshine indoors’, all year round. Unlike most Gardens or Zoos, Plantasia is not at risk from outside elements, and guarantees a great climate every month of the year. With free car parking for over 400 vehicles, and great access routes in, Plantasia is an ideal venue for groups visiting, and for parties of 10 or more, we offer some great additional free extras. Book in advance for your group, and you can choose from one of our great tour guide led experiences. Plantasia is ordinarily a self-led experience but groups are catered for with additional packages free of charge. Groups can also extend their stay in Cafe Canopy, with a range of catering options available to explore. Discounts are again available when booked in advance. Or why not extend the day with one of our partner packaged experiences. Many are available to choose from in the local area. For further information on Plantasia, or its Group offers, please: Visit: www.plantasiaswansea.co.uk
Call: 01792 474555 Email: plantasia@parkwood-leisure.co.uk
Staffordshire & Group Days Out in
The Potteries
FAMILY fun days out
The Statfold Barn Railway is an idyllic narrow-gauge if not the world. The Statfold Collection is a unique steam railway and museum set in the beautiful collection of over 60 locomotives which have been Staffordshire countryside. brought to Statfold from all corners of the world and restored at Statfold. Being a stone throw from the large market town of Tamworth, this makes Statfold ideally placed in the Sit on the top deck of the last remaining Burton & heart of England for visitors from across the UK and Ashby Tram as it travels through the Staffordshire further afield. countryside just like it did over a 100 years ago. At Statfold Barn Railway you are transported back in time as you step on board the narrow-gauge carriages to times past on your 3-mile journey through rolling countryside. Alight the train at Oak Tree Halt and the visit the Roundhouse museum & gift shop. Whilst visiting the Roundhouse be sure to pay a visit to our well-stocked shop and treat yourself at Diane’s Diner where delicious food is plentiful. The Roundhouse is home to one of the largest collections of narrow-gauge locos on public display in the UK and
As well public open days, and the steam spectacle of an enthusiast day the Statfold Barn Railway provides a unique venue for private functions, weddings, corporate events and educational tours. Statfold Barn Railway also provides driver experiences suitable for any railway enthusiast.
Visit the Statfold Barn Railway for an amazing day out, with fun for all ages. www.statfoldbarnrailway.co.uk
Farm Barn
INDOOR HARD PLAY FOOD & DRINK
OUTDOOR PLAY BILLY’S FARM BARN TRACTOR & TRAILER RIDE Farm Barn
Over busi 20 n & att esses ract on si ions te!
nfarm.co.uk
www.amerto
Open * every day pm 0 0 : 5 m a 0 9:3 g
as Day, Boxin m t is r h C t p e c (*ex ears Day) Day & New Y
BOOK E ONLIN
FREE car parking
Amerton Farm Ltd. Stowe by Chartley, Nr. Stafford, Staffordshire ST18 0LA Tel: 01889 270294
| E-mail: office@amertonfarm.co.uk | www.amertonfarm.co.uk | A great day out for everyone!
Amerton Farm
Visit
Stoke on Trent
Conveniently positioned between junctions 15 and 16 of the M6, Stoke-on-Trent is a city built on a history of industrial greatness and creative artistic flair. We’ve seen a resurgence of all things that made the city great. From pottery to performing arts and everything in between, we’re home to world-class attractions, incredible talents and creative businesses. The city boasts many ceramic visitor centres, awardwinning museums, authentic factory tours, pottery factory shops, exciting family attractions, beautiful gardens and the exclusive Staffordshire Hoard.
winning Gladstone Pottery Museum - the most complete Victorian pottery factory in the UK, boasting interactive exhibitions and a “Flushed with Pride” tribute to toilets past, present, and future!
Visit the World of Wedgwood to discover new perspectives, broaden horizons, and deepen your understanding of the world and its heritage and culture. Discover the story of Josiah Wedgwood and his lasting influence on industry, society, and local infrastructure and then take a factory tour to see production processes and techniques. Try your hand at the potter’s wheel or create your own bone china tableware in the Decorating Studio. An attraction suitable for all ages, an opportunity to ‘learn by doing’, to shop, eat and explore…
World-famous backstamps such as Wedgwood, Moorcroft, Spode, Burleigh and Portmeirion, along with world-class designers, are the obvious reasons why almost everyone in the world will have heard of Stoke-on-Trent. But even if the behind-the-scenes factory visits, and the opportunity to purchase some of the nation’s finest pottery and bone china remain a key reason for wanting to “make it” to The Potteries in the first place, it is still worthwhile delving a little deeper to discover what else there is on offer.
The history and heritage of Stoke-on-Trent is brilliantly preserved at numerous locations across the city including at Middleport Pottery and the award-
Enjoy a great day out at the Trentham Estate for shopping and eating out, peace and quiet, fun and action! Visit the awardwinning Trentham Gardens, which have
The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery is famous for housing the finest collection of Staffordshire ceramics in the world. These days, however, it is also ‘home’ to the Staffordshire Hoard – the largest ever ‘find’ of Anglo-Saxon gold treasure in the UK – valued by the British Museum at £3.285 million.
matured into some of the finest gardens in Britain. Indulge yourself in some retail therapy at the Trentham Shopping Village with shops, cafes, restaurants and the vast Trentham Garden Centre. Walk with 140 Barbary macaques at the Trentham Monkey Forest or take a high rope adventure at Trentham Treetop Adventures. The Trentham Estate has a great events programme throughout the year to suit everyone – from nature lovers, to the green fingered and active kids to music lovers – all set in a truly stunning setting. Stoke-on-Trent is home to incredible entertainment venues and outstanding theatres. These include the New Vic Theatre, the theatre in the round which has built a reputation for innovative productions of both new and classic works. The Cultural Quarter in the City Centre houses the Regent Theatre, a beautifully restored Art Deco theatre offering a high quality programme of grand opera, national ballet, drama, and West End musicals; and the Victoria Hall an outstanding concert hall offering a wide range of concerts, events, and stand-up comedians. For further information and inspiration, head to www.visitstoke.co.uk
STOKE-ON-TRENT Stoke-on-Trent is a unique city affectionately known as The Potteries. With its rich industrial heritage it has respectfully claimed the title of World Capital of Ceramics. The city boasts a host of award-winning ceramic attractions, museums, and factory shops as well as outstanding family attractions and beautiful gardens. For information about great places to visit, things to see and do, fantastic events and accommodation in the area... Call 01782 236000 Email stoke.tic@stoke.gov.uk or go to visitstoke.co.uk
VISITSTOKE.CO.UK
GLADSTONE POTTERY MUSEUM Museum Opening times: Tuesdays ‐ Saturdays and Bank Holidays: 10am ‐ 5pm Gladstone Pottery Museum is the only complete, preserved Victorian pottery factory with a cobbled courtyard, towering bottle ovens and pottery workshops. Find out about how potters prepared, made and decorated pottery which was fired in the coal burning kilns at this welcoming, hands‐on attraction. Demonstrations ‐ At Gladstone you can see professional ceramicists demonstrate pottery skills including throwing pots, making bone china flowers, casting and decorating. Have‐a‐go activities ‐ Try your hand at pottery skills and create your own masterpiece to take home as a unique souvenir of your visit to the museum.
Uttoxeter Road, Longton, Stoke‐on‐Trent ST3 1PQ Telephone: 01782 237777 Email: gladstone@stoke.gov.uk
stokemuseums.org.uk/gpm
Lichfield District Family Fun
Lichfield’s rich and varied history comes alive as you Memorial Arboretum is the UK’s year round centre explore the city and district. of remembrance. Explore its maturing woodland, over 360 memorials, the sensory garden and Lichfield District is the perfect spot for a children’s play area. family short break. The city is packed with interesting places to visit, including Lichfield Take a tour or follow our family trail Cathedral, The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum We offer a varied programme of guided tours, and Erasmus Darwin House – all free entry! With including Hideous History, which is packed with seasonal activities and plenty to see and do, all three bloodthirsty tales to entertain children. venues are within five minutes’ walk and are well Or you can go it alone on the Minster Trail, which worth a visit. is a self-guided trail that encourages children to find out fun and interesting facts about the city. It’s free Lichfield Historic Parks, bring together four to pick up from Tourist Information @St Mary’s or distinctive green spaces in the city – the largest of you can download it from which is Beacon Park. Set in over 70 acres of www.visitlichfield.co.uk/minsterstrail gardens and open space, it boasts a large play area, complete with a pirate ship and wooden train. Shopping You can also enjoy boating on the pool, crazy golf, With its pretty streets and modern shopping centre, woodland walks, pond dipping, the Swinfen Broun Lichfield offers a unique shopping experience. Find brass rubbing trail and much more. a rare gift in one of our many independent shops, enjoy the hustle and bustle of the market or treat If you’re staying a little longer, no family trip is yourself at one of our high street stores. complete without experiencing Drayton Manor Market days are Tues, Fri & Sat, with a farmers’ and Theme Park with its hair-raising rides, zoo and 4D craft market on the first Thurs of the month cinema. For a change of pace, the National (excluding January).
Food & drink Feast your eyes on our wide range of cafés, pubs, bars and restaurants in and around the city. Indian, Chinese, Thai, Italian, English... you’ll be spoilt for choice with our restaurants offering a great range of mouth-watering dishes. There are also family friendly cafes, including The Green Frog Café, with its soft play area, reading corner, and costumes for little visitors. Relax, unwind and sleep From the historic city centre to the surrounding idyllic countryside, there’s a wide range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. Get a good night’s sleep at a cosy farmhouse bed and breakfast, spoil yourself in a stylish boutique hotel, or set up under the stars at a holiday park. For full listing of places to stay throughout the district go to visitlichfield.co.uk/accommodation A place for festivals and events Lichfield is fast becoming known as the City of Festivals. From large-scale nationally recognised 18
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festivals to traditional events, music concerts and food festivals, hardly a week goes by without some kind of entertainment taking place in the city. Highlights include the annual Lichfield Festival, Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park, and the popular Lichfield Cathedral events. See our website for upcoming events at visitlichfield. co.uk/events or visit the Tourist Information desk. You can also order a copy or download our What’s On brochure at visitlichfield.co.uk/brochurerequest Tourist Information A warm welcome is guaranteed at our Tourist Information desk @St Mary’s in the centre of the city next to the Market Square. We are here to help you plan your visit. Contact the team on 01543 308924, email info@visitlichfield.com or go to www.visitlichfield.co.uk
MOORCROFT Est.1897
A Heritage Art Pottery in the heart of Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent
FREE FACTORY TOURS AT THE MOORCROFT HERITAGE VISITOR CENTRE Book your tour at moorcroft.com/factory-tour or call 01782 82515 and quote 'VISIT STOKE'
Group of Seven by Emma Bossons FRSA
Lifetime memories
made at Shugborough Estate Visit Shugborough Estate and explore tales of sea-faring adventures in the mansion. Explore life below stairs in the servants quarters and explore one man’s ‘perfect paradise'. Our grounds are perfect for burning off some steam followed by a delicious cream tea in our dog friendly cafe. These are the places that make us. nationaltrust.org.uk/shugborough-estate
Shugborough Estate is the best place to be with your friends and family this summer. Whether you’re looking for a quick breath of fresh air, or a full day of fun with the family, you can do it all at this National Trust property. With the site being open till 6pm, you can embrace the lighter evenings and all that the season has to offer just by scanning your membership card, or grabbing a ticket from reception. As the National Trust is a charity, you are directly supporting the care of the estate by paying it a visit.
Entry to the estate is now just £10 per adult on a Tuesday, with children over 5 just £5 until 27th August. See our extensive collection in the mansion showing the life of Thomas and George Anson. You will also be able to witness our conservation project to return our four enormous wall paintings to their former glory.
Finish your day off with one of our award winning scones from one of the two tea rooms at Shugborough. Both serve hot and cold drinks, freshly baked cakes and biscuits, and some lovely warm meals. Step inside the August is the perfect month to explore the estate in newly refurbished Mansion Tea-room, perfectly located the summer sunshine. Bring your little ones to try and by the shop, and treat yourself to a larger lunch. Or, see how many of our 50 things to do before you’re 11¾ pop into Park Farm Café after your dog walk and grab activities you can complete; fly a kite, skim a stone and a light bite right in the heart of our farm yard. It’s now try to build yourself a den. If they still have some energy dog friendly so your four legged friend can join you too. left, why not head to Explorers Wood, our natural play Staffordshire County Council gave back management of area located just beyond the walled garden. Download Shugborough Estate to the National Trust in November our summer planner, or collect one from Visitor 2016, and the site has been open under the Trust since Reception on your way past and plan your summer March 2017. This means that all members have to do is activities. We’ve got plenty to occupy your little ones to scan their card for entrance to the entire Estate. The from the big butterfly count, to storytelling, chicken site is open year round, only closing on Christmas day. feeding and green fingered activities in our gardens. Pop As a charity, we are directly supported by your visits. into our craft tent every Tuesday and try something new or collect your 50 things activity cards and explore the estate at your leisure.
Derbyshire & Group Days Out in
The Peak District
BOLSOVER DISTRICT Gateway to the Peak District Ideally situated at the heart of the country, nestling between the Peak District and Sherwood Forest, it offers a superb blend of spectacular scenery, historical features and quaint market towns. VISIT Bolsover Castle, Creswell Crags, Hardwick Hall, VISIT… Stainsby Mill. We are home to some of the region’s top tourist attractions. DI SCOVER the many traditional and independent DISCOVER…
shops and markets in our quaint and unique towns and villages and pick up a bargain or visit East Midlands Designer Outlet with over 65 stores, cafés and restaurants.
PLORE the district on foot, bike or car. We have EX EXPLORE…
miles of trails and paths for you to explore our beautiful rolling countryside, industrial heritage and wildlife.
RE LAX with a picnic in the splendid setting of Poulter RELAX… or Pleasley Country Parks, or in one of the many traditional countryside and village inns with a real ale, fresh orange juice and home cooked food.
GREAT DAYS OUT DAY 1 – DISCOVER BOLSOVER
DAY 2 – FROM PAST TO PRESENT
Set high on a hilltop with breathtaking views, visit Bolsover Castle to see its lavish rooms in the Little Castle, delight in the views from the wall walk, visit the exhibition in the Riding House or explore the extensive grounds.
Described as ‘more glass than wall’ Hardwick Hall is one of the finest Elizabethan houses in the country. Large glazed windows adorn the hall and inside the three floors take you on something of a magical mystery tour with elaborate rooms designed to wow. Outside you can explore the park, discovering breathtaking views or take a gentle stroll around the perfectly manicured and magnificent gardens.
For lunch visit the large café at the Castle or one of the many tea rooms or hostelries in the town. Wander into the town and browse around the many independent shops before heading down the hill to the Peter Filder and Carr Vale Nature Reserve, where you can take a gentle stroll around the trails and walkways and see a range of birds, wildlife and dragonflies.
DAY 3 – TRAVEL BACK IN TIME
Stop off for a spot of lunch at the 15th century Hardwick Inn before taking a short drive to the East Midlands Designer Outlet at Jct 28, M1. Shopaholics will be in for a treat with over 65 stores offering designer brands all with up to at least 60% off and numerous restaurants and cafés to rest those weary legs.
Home of the Ice Age Hunter, Creswell Crags is a fascinating story of life during the last Ice Age between 50,000 and 10,000 years ago. Marvel at the stone tools and remains of animals found in the caves by archaeologists in the visitor centre exhibition. Then walk through the meadow and see the limestone gorge, honeycombed with caves and smaller fissures, all set around a central lake. Stop off for a late lunch in the Visitor Centre café or take a picnic to Whitwell Woods, said to be the largest in Europe. Set in 420 acres, this lovely wood offers plenty of wide trails that are suitable for walking or cycling. With loads of wildlife and walks ranging from 7.5 to 2 miles with flat paths, you can meander around the network of trails enjoying the 20+ species of tree and the flora and fauna that adorn the woodland floor.
For more information visit www.bolsover.gov.uk
Y R E EN
C S ABOVE AND R A L BELOW GROUND U C A T C SPE
www.poolescaver n.co.uk
HADDON HALL Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1LA.
Tours of the Hall and Gardens • Estate Walks Live Musical Performances Delicious Afternoon Teas and Seasonal Menus Artisan Markets • Plant Fair • Gifts Galore Visit www.haddonhall.co.uk for more details | info@haddonhall.co.uk | 01629812855
Discover
The Peak District
Discover a world of contrasting natural beauty, with moors and dales, rivers, springs and caverns and at the heart of it all, there are loads of things to do in the Peak District National Park and Derbyshire. The area is known and loved by many for its breath-taking views, bustling market towns and pretty villages, historic houses, famous attractions and hundreds of traditional events, such as the unique Derbyshire custom of Well Dressing. From the high, moorland plateaus in the north, to the steep-sided, deep dales and rolling green hills in the south of the area, the Peak District & Derbyshire has just about any landscape you can imagine in Britain, making it one of the finest areas in the country to go walking. Couple the fantastic scenery with amazing local Food & Drink, the Peak District will sure enough become one of your favourite destinations! As for events, well, we know how to throw a party! Fabulously vintage, award-winning Eroica Britannia is very quickly gaining a reputation as one of the ‘must visit’ events of the year with its shabby chic look, party atmosphere and of course excellent cycle ride through the stunning Peak District. What more could you ask for? During the summer you’ll catch a country fair on nearly any weekend, from Hope Show, Bakewell Show and Chatsworth Country Fair. And in the Autumn, enjoy glistening displays and family fun at the Matlock Bath Illuminations. Our attractions are pretty top-notch too! Dangle over a ravine in a cable car as you ascend to The Heights of Abraham, hop on-board an old-style tram at Crich Tramway Village, home to the National Tramway Museum, get up close and personal with nature at Peak Wildlife Park or scare yourself silly on white-knuckle ride at Alton Towers Resort!
NEW FOR 2019 NATURE RESERVE AT PEAK VILLAGE
SHOPPING FREE PARKING FREE EVENTS & MAKERS MARKETS RESTAURANT & CAFE
INDOOR ADVENTURE PLAY CENTRE
JUST 2 MILES FROM CHATSWORTH
Ideal Fun , Free Group Family Days Days OutOut IN THE BEAUTIFUL PEAK DISTRICT
Chatsworth Road, Rowsley, Derbyshire DE4 2JE www.peakshoppingvillage.com Follow us: Visit our events page for our Events Calendar
Main image by Frank Richards
www.e-v-r.com 01629 823076
Step on to our steam and heritage diesel trains from yesteryear and travel through the beautiful rural countryside. Station Café at Wirksworth Station Miniature Railway, Gift Shops and more… Wirksworth Station, Coldwell Street, Wirksworth, Derbyshire, DE4 4FB
Erewash Museum Erewash Museum is a social history Museum with exhibitions and displays reflecting the history of the Erewash Borough. Home for the Museum is a late Georgian house with Victorian extensions. It was both a family home and school accommodation before becoming a museum in the 1980`s.Many original features remain and visitors can enjoy the gardens unrivalled views across the Erewash Valley, and our Victorian style tea room. A varied events programme runs throughout the year with something to suit everyone. We also run a series of temporary exhibitions in our gallery. www.erewashmuseum.org High street, Ilkeston, Derbyshire, DE7 5JA 0115 9071141
Welcome to
Chesterfield
Chesterfield is famous for the unique ‘Crooked Spire’ of its Parish Church. Come and find out if the rhyme about it is true – Whichever way you turn your eye, it always seems to stand awry. Climb the Tower and discover some of the legends that surround it. The most popular story is that the Spire was so amazed to hear of a virgin being married in the Church that it twisted round to see this wonder for itself. It’s said that, should the same thing happen again, the Spire will straighten up. The truth probably lies in the weight of the lead tiles that cover the wooden structure – all 32 tons of them! But find out more in the town’s museum where the star attraction is the medieval builders’ wheel used to build the church. Shop till you drop at Chesterfield’s famous open air market where traders have been selling their wares since at least 1165. Today you can buy almost anything, from pots to potatoes, books to brooches, clothes to candles, it’s just a case of finding it among the stalls. Our regular trading days are Monday, Friday and Saturday or visit the popular Flea market every Thursday. The Artisan Market takes place on the last Sunday of the month where there will be traders selling high quality, authentic and local goods. Head to one of our special events such as the Street Food and Grooves Festival in May, Medieval Fun Day in July, Motor Fest in August, the ancient Derbyshire custom of Well Dressing in September, 1940s Market in
October or Christmas Lights Switch On in November. May 2019 also sees the launch of the Vegan Knights Market set to be held at intervals throughout the year. For more information on all our upcoming events see www.visitchesterfield.info/events Follow the story of Chesterfield at Chesterfield Museum, from its first days as a Roman fort to the birth of the market town and the growth of industry which brought railway pioneer George Stephenson to Chesterfield. Come and meet George on special event days this year. Other events include hands on exhibitions, storytelling and behind the scenes tours. Enjoy a play at the Pomegranate Theatre or a concert, dance or comedy show at the Winding Wheel. See the website www.chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk for information on what’s coming up and to book. The Theatre has a programme of live broadcasts and new films, but you also have the choice of the 10 screen Cineworld cinema. If you’re feeling more active try the Chesterfield Bowl, or the new Queen’s Park Sports Centre. In Chesterfield you’ll find all the facilities of a town that’s just 4 miles away from the Peak District. If there is anything else you need to know before visiting Chesterfield see our website www.visitchesterfield.info or contact Chesterfield Visitor Information Centre on 01246 345777
Our Bluebell Story
The Brown Family have been milking their herd of Holstein Friesian cows at Brunswood Farm, Locko Park, Derby since 1953.
The creamy milk was carried from the dairy, across the yard to the production area in covered buckets. The food miles were all of 20 metres!
In 2007 and as a result of falling milk prices, the family looked at ways that the farm could be preserved for future generations, ensuring also that the cows could continue to produce their wonderfully creamy milk. The question was what should the Brown’s do???
From the outset, we spent a lot of time developing our flavours and using only the finest ingredients. We carefully tried out over 20 different vanillas and over 30 different chocolates until we found our ultimate goal. Our aim was to use local or British produce wherever possible for our very special, very British Ice Cream!
The answer came in a light bulb moment one tea time around the farmhouse kitchen table when the family were tasting one of the many poor quality mass produced ice creams available at the time. As they loved ice cream so much, why shouldn’t the family make and sell their own? Italian gelato at the time was by far the best ice cream available on the market, but what a good idea to make a creamy luxury artisan ice cream, made in the same way as the Italians, but with a British twist. Rosemary Brown had often made her own ice cream from the milk from the cows on the farm (milked by Husband Geoff and Son Oliver) so this was a perfectly natural step up! The new enterprise was started in December 2008 after an RDPE grant had helped to convert half the redundant buildings in the farmyard into a tiny production area (situated in the shed where Grandpa Brown had once hand milked his very first Bluebell the cow).
That was our starting point, the rest of our story is full of Royal visits, Great Taste Awards, International Awards when we beat the Italians at Ice Cream making in their own land, a tale of Prime Ministers and Chancellors, National awards and of course, plenty of great taste and fun!!! We are so passionate about Bluebells Ice Cream!!! Nowadays, we have 26 flavours of Ice Creams and Sorbet to try in our beautiful Ice Cream Tea Rooms, or available to purchase from one of our handpicked stockists around the region. On the farm, visitors can also enjoy meeting our animals in our Animal Patch, before letting the Children loose to play in our Play Area – so near to Derby, but so very much in the Country!
Bluebell Dairy, Prunswood Farm Locko Road, Derby, DE21 7AR Tel (01332) 673924 www.bluebelldairy.co.uk
Sussex & Essex Group Days Out in
Experience 1,000 years of Rural Life in One Remarkable Site. The Weald and Downland Living Museum – a hidden gem in the South East of England,
quintessentially British in a picture perfect setting.
Discover a fascinating collection of over 50 historic rescued rural homes and buildings, from as early as 950AD, set amongst 40 acres of beautiful landscape in the South Downs National Park. The collection tells the stories of the people who lived and worked in rural South East England for over 1,000 years. Visit historic places of work and watch traditional craft and industries in action. Staff and volunteers – in many of the historic houses and gardens – love to answer questions about the buildings and the people who would have lived and worked in them. Fun for all the family - a hands-on museum which encourages visitors of all ages to feel and touch the exhibits and to enjoy the history behind each front door. Packed full of exciting events, experiences and family activities throughout the year, the Weald & Downland Living Museum is the perfect place to explore, learn and conserve. You don’t have to visit the museum to enjoy the beautiful rolling South Downs countryside – visitors can now enjoy waterside dining at the museum’s stunning café, with fantastic views across the mill pond. Open to both museum visitors and to the general public, the museum and its café, is dog-friendly and has ample free parking. The waterside café is open from 9am, 7-days-a-week and closes 4pm (5pm BST).
STEP BACK IN TIME Experience 1,000 years of rural life in South East England Explore rescued historic buildings set in beautiful parkland, with domestic and craft demonstrations, historic gardens, traditional farm animals and special events. Dog-friendly attraction and waterside café. What’s new 2019 • Bakehouse • Dairy • Hands-on activity zone
Visit wealddown.co.uk or call us on +44 (0)1243 811363
Town Lane, Singleton, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 0EU
Free entry!
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Dog friend ly!
Follow the brown tourist signs
Meet friendly rescued horses and donkeys at Redwings Ada Cole, near Harlow, EN9 2DH Open 10am to 4pm every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday
www.redwings.org.uk | 0870 040 0033
Ancient Castle, Stately Home & Gardens for more details, call 01903 882173 or visit www.arundelcastle.org
Group Days Out In
Bedfordshire
Jordans Mill – a grand day out starts with us! Jordans Mill is a unique food heritage attraction in rural Bedfordshire offering historic Mill museum tours, beautiful gardens, a Riverside Café and Mill shop with locally sourced produce. Step back in time Jordans Mill has been home to the Jordan family for over 150 years. A key part of the visitor experience is a guided tour of the iconic Mill museum. The tour, which lasts approximately one hour, takes visitors on a fascinating journey from the beginnings of milling in Bedfordshire to Jordans Cereals’ place as one of the UK’s leading cereal manufacturers.
Delicious, freshly made food in a riverside setting The large Riverside Café has space for over 100 diners inside with a popular outside terrace. The Riverside Café serves a varied menu which changes seasonally, using local ingredients where possible with everything freshly prepared. Explore the stunning gardens Take a stroll through the unique food and flower gardens where crops, vegetables and fruits are grown in an ornamental setting alongside wild flowers and cultivated garden plants. Easy access Jordans Mill is accredited as a Quality Assured Visitor Attraction from Visit England and is suitable for wheelchair users.
The perfect venue for your meeting Jordans Mill provides a unique location for private functions and meetings. The building is both stylish and comfortable and supported by first class service www.jordansmill.com and great food. Only 1.5 miles from the A1, near Biggleswade, Jordans Mill enjoys excellent transport links and has ample car parking facilities. 44 WWW.AGRANDDAYOUT.NET
A GREAT DAY OUT STARTS WITH US SEE HISTORY IN ACTION
Enjoy a guided tour of our lovingly restored historic Mill museum and learn about the heritage of flour milling in Britain and the unique story of the Jordans family.
Tucked away on the banks of the River Ivel near Biggleswade, Jordans Mill is in the heart of rural Bedfordshire
FREE ENTRY TO OUR MILL GARDENS
Take a stroll through our unique and tranquil Mill Gardens where flowers and plants grow alongside fruits, vegetables and cereals in a stunning ornamental setting.
TAKE A BREAK WITH A FRESHLY-MADE TREAT
Visit the Riverside Café for delicious, seasonal locally-sourced meals, snacks and cakes and enjoy our incredible views. Open daily from 9am - 5pm.
KEEPING OUR FOOD HERITAGE ALIVE
WWW.JORDANSMILL.COM The Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) is funded by Defra and the EU
Jordans Mill, Holme Mills, Langford Road, Broom, Nr Biggleswade SG18 9JY For more info please call 01767 603940
WWW.AGRANDDAYOUT.NET
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Welcome to the Royal Mint
Discover the journey of a coin from blank to bank at The Royal Mint Experience. Your guide will take you behind the scenes in our 45-minute guided factory experience.
great on a silver penny to the five definitive portraits of Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth II.
Get up close to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic medals and listen to the stories of those Whilst on tour, you can grab the opportunity to strike whose bravery has been rewarded with the UK’s galyour very own coin creating a unique memory of your lantry and service medals. visit. That’s not all... following on from your guided tour, wander at your own pace through our interactive At the end of the exhibition all guests have the opportunity to lift a 400oz Gold bar worth around exhibition, discovering the incredible processes needed to make a coin. Come face to face with British £400,000 – the only place in the UK where you can do Monarchs over the past 1,100 years: from Alfred the so!
Group Days Out In
Wales To complete your visit, be sure to take a look in our Gift Shop where you can add to, or start, your collection. Temporary exhibitions complement our permanent collection. We are currently celebrating 30 years of the beloved Wallace and Gromit with sets from both The Curse of the Were-Rabbit & Gromit’s World of Invention on display in our exhibition hall, available to view until April 2020.
Coming March 9th 2020 – Explore the secretive world of spies and sovereigns in our ‘currency undercover’ exhibition. Among many guarded uses for currency, discover how the UK’s gold was covertly exported during World War I, how coins have been used within the secret service for hundreds of years, and see the same briefcase used in ‘From Russia with Love’ that Sean Connery’s James Bond used to lure villain Red Grant with 50 gold sovereigns.
BOOK NOW
Experience
to secure 2019 prices
A unique day out! • Unlock 1,100 years of history in our interactive exhibition
• 45 minute guided factory tour • Strike Your Own Coin
LI
O N M D IT ISP ED L TI AY M FO E O RA N LY
• Wallace and Gromit Exhibition on Show until April 2020
• Lift a 400oz Gold Bar
20 minutes from Cardiff, open 7 days a week. 0333 241 2223 | royalmint.com | experience@royalmint.com facebook.com/TheRoyalMintExperience
youtube.com/Royal Mint Experience
instagram.com/royalmintexperience
linkedin.com/the-royal-mint-experience
twitter.com/RoyalMintExp
www.tripadvisor.co.uk
Winner of Visit Wales’ gold quality assurance award