A Grand Day Out for Groups in the UK - Issue 6 by ProDigitalMedia

A GRAND DAY OUT

Issue 6

FOR GROUPS IN THE UK

EXPLORE THE MALVERNS VISIT DORSET

DISCOVER BLETCHLEY

WELCOME TO KENT - GARDEN OF ENGLAND

VISIT STOKE ON TRENT AND THE POTTERIES

PLACES TO VISIT & THINGS TO DO WITH YOUR GROUP www.agranddayout.net

Where families matter!

Bring your family to come and see ours!

With over 250 rescued and endangered primates of more than 20 different species, Monkey World is the largest primate rescue centre in the world! Open to visitors every day, except Christmas Day!

Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre, Longthorns, Wareham, Dorset BH20 6HH

T: 01929 462537 FREE INFO LINE: 0800 456600

www.monkeyworld.org

WELCOME to Issue 6 A GRAND DAY OUT for groups in the UK

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 the group organiser. There is something for everyone no matter how old or young you are. So be inspired, plan your next group adventure and discover what the UK has to offer. We hope you enjoy flicking through the magazine and that it gives you some ideas for those group outings! Turn a great day out into A GRAND DAY OUT! Published by ProDigital Media AEM Media House 23 Northcote Avenue Manchester M22 9AJ

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GET IN TOUCH: 0161 900 8872 Visitor Centre www.agranddayout.net Find us Facebook A on new and unique2016 destination for UK tourism. Opening Spring Sales and Marketing: marketing@agranddayout.net A Grand Day Out Accounts and Admin: info@agranddayout.net Over•1,000 years in the experience making... Guided factory Creative Design : JAM well worth the wait • Interactive exhibition

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No part of publication may beexperience 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. •this All-weather

• Group rates and incentives

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

SECRETS REVEALED AT BLETCHLEY PARK

Discover what life was for the World War Two Codebreakers with a day out at Bletchley Park. The listed, historic buildings and landscape have been returned to their 1940s appearance and feel, giving visitors a real sense of wartime Britain’s codebreaking heart. The work undertaken at Bletchley Park and its outstations helped shorten WW2, saving countless lives. Find out how as you stroll around this atmospheric heritage attraction.

The site is a combination of indoor and outdoor space. The buildings, now restored, were built in the 1940s for the 9,000 or so men and women who worked here in complete secrecy. Visitors are encouraged to roam the site at their leisure and use the free maps, which point out areas of interest. Free multimedia guides help visitors to explore the landscape at Bletchley Park and discover its fascinating stories in the places where they happened.

Individuals and groups can enter the iconic Codebreaking Huts, faithfully recreated to their wartime settings, and see for themselves where the extraordinary work took place under rudimentary conditions. Evocative displays and clever recordings discreetly overheard around the site help visitors learn about the stories of the remarkable men and women who worked to make such vital contributions to the war effort and British history. The Block C Visitor Centre offers visitors a breath-taking introductory exhibition, an interactive Cybersecurity exhibition, explaining what happened here and how the debate continues on secrecy and its importance to national security, and The Road to Bletchley Park, an exhibition which adds context to the WW2 work at Bletchley Park by explaining codebreaking’s World War One history.

Pre-booked groups benefit from a significant discount on admissions and the official guidebook. They can also take advantage of our Winter Discount group booking scheme, which offers even lower prices until 29 February 2016. Groups start from 12 people. Coaches are welcome and need to pre-book for arrival and departure times. Groups are dropped off and collected in front of the Visitor Centre and coaches can park nearby for free – only a 10 minute walk from the site. Coach drivers and tour organisers can also visit the site free. Please contact Group Bookings to learn more and to make a booking. Contact details are groupbookings@bletchleypark.org.uk or 01908 272673.

Visitors can also spend time in the Victorian Mansion, which houses The Imitation Game, The Exhibition. Featuring props from the film, it is located in the very room where the movie’s bar scenes were filmed. As well as other exhibitions, visitors can stop by the coffee shop or cafe, enjoy a picnic by the lake and visit the gift shop. WWW.AGRANDDAYOUT.NET

THE PERFECT DAY OUT FOR ANY GROUP! Journey back in time & enjoy a leisurely 16 mile steam train ride along the beautiful Severn Valley. Make a stop at The Engine House Visitor Centre, where you can view our locomotives, The King George VI Royal Saloon and much more. Restaurant facilities are available for a hot meal, snack or just a drink. Groups of 15-300 can be booked in advance, generous discounts available. For further information contact the Assistant Visitor Services Manager Tel: 01299 403816 E-mail: grouptravel@svr.co.uk The Railway Station, Bewdley, Worcestershire DY12 1BG

www.svr.co.uk

MONKEY WORLD - APE RESCUE CENTRE

Monkey World, the internationally-acclaimed ape rescue centre, is home to over 250 rescued and endangered monkeys and apes of 20 different species. Opened in 1987 to provide abused Spanish beach chimpanzees with a permanent home, the site is now a sanctuary for primates from all over the world and some are now part of international breeding programmes for endangered species. Here you can see them enjoy the company of their own kind in a safe, natural environment.

Based in Wareham, Dorset, Monkey World has ample free parking for cars and coaches. Discounts are available for pre-booked groups. Open every day (except Christmas Day) from 10am to 5pm (10am to 6pm during July and August) and last entry is one hour before closing. Visit www.monkeyworld.org for more information, or call 01929 462537.

For more than a decade, Monkey World and its inhabitants have been the subject of documentaries on TV’s ‘Monkey Business’ and ‘Monkey Life’. From rescue to rehabilitation, the programs are a true to life soap opera following the lives of the monkeys and apes. So visit the park to see some of the stars for yourself! Combining fun with conservation and animal education, half-hourly talks by the dedicated Primate Care Staff explain all about man’s closest living relative. They love to share their knowledge of all the individuals in their care, so don’t hesitate to ask any questions when the talk is over. The park also includes a Woodland Walk, several play areas for children and a gift shop. There are catering outlets that offer a range of hot and cold food, snacks, drinks and confectionery, or visitors are welcome to bring their own packed lunch and use one of the park’s many outdoor picnic areas. WWW.AGRANDDAYOUT.NET

Heart of the Country Shopping Village

Set in the county of Staffordshire, in the very heart of England, Lichfield is an ideal location to consider when planning group visits for 2016. Heritage – city centre Lichfield Cathedral

The magnificent three spired cathedral dominates the skyline of Lichfield and is a must-see for any visitor. The St Chad’s Gospels, which pre-date the Book of Kells, the Lichfield Angel and items from the world-renowned Staffordshire Hoard are some of the treasures on display.

The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum

Samuel Johnson was the creator of the first nationally recognised English dictionary and is Lichfield’s most famous son. Today the house where he was born is a fascinating museum, set over five floors. Free entry.

Erasmus Darwin House

Erasmus Darwin was the grandfather of Charles Darwin and was a

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multi-talented man being a doctor, inventor, botanist and poet! He lived in Lichfield for many years and his splendid Georgian home, a short walk from Lichfield Cathedral, contains many items that reflect his varied interests and hobbies. Free entry.

Lichfield Museum

Situated in St Mary’s on the Market Square is the Lichfield Museum. St Mary’s is a sympathetically converted church and also houses the Tourist Information Centre, a large café and shop. The museum collection is very comprehensive and takes the visitor on a 2,000 year historical trail of the city. Free entry.

St John’s Hospital

More of a hospice than a hospital, this ancient chapel is a quiet sanctuary in the heart of the bustling city. Visitors to the chapel can admire the John Piper stained glass window, the same artist that created the east window at Coventry Cathedral.

Lichfield Cathedral

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Erasmus Darwin’s House

National Memorial Arboretum

Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum and St Marys

Outside the city National Memorial Arboretum – Alrewas The truly outstanding National Memorial Arboretum, including the iconic Armed Forces Memorial, is a short 10 minute drive from the city centre and an ideal day group visit is to combine a visit to the Arboretum in the morning with a visit to the city in the afternoon. Shopping Lichfield has a varied mix of shops, with plenty of household names as well as a host of independent unique retailers. There is a regular market on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday each week and a Farmers’ Market on the first Thursday of each month. A five minute drive away is the Heart of the Country Shopping Village, containing many independent shopping units and free coach parking. Excitement Drayton Manor Theme Park is a 10 minute drive away with hundreds

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of exciting rides for those searching for excitement and fun and for the young, or young at heart, Europe’s only Thomas Land! Coaches Lichfield has received national recognition as a coach friendly city, having won the coveted Coach Friendly City award in 2010. There is plenty of allocated coach parking bays and drop-off points close to the Cathedral. Lichfield would be a great group destination when planning visits for 2016, please contact our Groups Officer for more information and for help when planning your visit. Contact: Jonathan Oates, Groups Officer jonathan.oates@lichfielddc.gov.uk 01543 308210 www.visitlichfield.co.uk

VISIT HULL & EAST YORKSHIRE

Which part of your trip to Hull & East Yorkshire will you and your party remember most?

Trinity Market where there are over 30 stalls to browse, including fresh produce from local traders.

Market Towns Whether it is exploring the Georgian grandure of Hull’s historic Old Town, discovering the breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife of the rugged heritage coastline; treating yourself to a luxury Boutique shopping trip in the shadow of Beverley Minister or invigorating your senses in the beauty of the Yorkshire Wolds, your experience will last long beyond when you get home.

The UK City of Culture 2017 Experience

Hull is a vibrant waterfront city with a modern European feel but one that is also proud of its rich heritage. The cobbled streets of the old town, dominated by the beautiful architecture of the buildings along them, lead to an array of interesting and varied attractions. The old High Street is home to the Museums Quarter offering a variety of fascinating museums which form part of Hull’s collection of eight free museums. No visit to Hull though would be complete without a trip to The Deep, the world’s only Submarium, where a colony of Gentoo Penguins made their home in March 2014. And let’s not forget the many theatres and cultural events where you can enjoy comedy, drama, music and more…

Shopping Heaven

In Hull you’ll find a range of independent retailers and high street favourites, making a visit to the city a perfect opportunity to indulge in some retail therapy. Bargain hunters should head for Hull

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Hull & East Yorkshire is rich with pretty market towns and villages, including Driffield and Pocklington on the edge of the Wolds. These are all destinations in their own right but also offer great bases from which to explore the surrounding area. Beverley is perhaps the most well known and attracts thousands of visitors every year because of its breathtaking Gothic Minster, a market place dating back to the middle ages and a wealth of arts, antiques, crafts and boutique stores to browse at your leisure.

By the sea

Bridlington has long been one of England’s favourite seaside towns. with its sparkling seas, golden shores and one of the most complete Georgian High Streets left in the country, plus cosy tea rooms and fresh fish and chips on the harbour - it’s easy to see why! Hornsea and Withernsea are also great places to visit offering fantastic shopping at the Freeport Hornsea Outlet Village, an array of attractions, pretty gardens, a smuggling heritage and a lighthouse museum. Nature Lovers won’t be disappointed either and should head for Spurn National Nature Reserve home to thousands of migrating birds that flock to the area each year, or the RSPB Reserve atBempton Cliffs home to over 200,000 birds at any time. Our coastline offers beauty, nature and attractions all in one great location. For further information on visiting Hull & East Yorkshire visit www.visithullandeastyorkshire.com/group, email groups@vhey.co.uk or call 01482 391520

OPEN DAILY 10AM – 5PM FREE ADMISSION

FACE TO FACE WITH HISTORY The Royal Armouries’ collection of arms and armour will take you on a journey through some of the most important events in history. A lively programme of activities for all the family makes every visit a new experience.

www.royalarmouries.org

EXPLORE THE MALVERNS

The Malverns offer wonderful short break opportunities throughout the year. The Malvern Hills extend for nine miles, offering ideal walking and spectacular views stretching to the Cotswolds and the Welsh Marches. This uniquely beautiful place, once famous for its Victorian Water Cures, has been the inspiration to many great writers such as C.S. Lewis and the composer Sir Edward Elgar. A visit to the Elgar Birthplace Museum provides a fascinating insight on the work of Malvern’s greatest son. Follow in the great man’s footsteps and get a sense of what inspired his writing with a walk in crisp clean air over the stunning Malvern Hills. Head back into Great Malvern for tea or dinner at one of the many highly rated cafés or restaurants then finish the day with a theatre visit. Malvern Theatres regularly host pre or post West End productions. Day done and ready for bed in one of our star rated hotels or guest houses. Whilst in Malvern a visit to the 1,000 year old Priory Church with some of the finest stained glass windows 14

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and medieval tiles in England should not be missed. The town is also home to the world famous Morgan Motor Company crafting handmade sports cars here for more than 100 years. Take a factory tour, visit the on-site museum, or even hire a car for the weekend. Also don’t forget to take time and explore the extensive selection of quality independent shops and treat yourself. As well as being home to the Royal Three Counties Showground and its range of shows throughout the year, the town was also at the forefront in developing radar during World War 2 which can be explored at the excellent Malvern Museum. To find out more and with help to build your stay itinerary visit: www.visitthemalverns.org or speak to one of our tourism officers on 01684 892289.

Everything you love about England – Culture, Heritage and Nature come together in The Malverns.

The Malverns

Land of Hope & Glory

Home to:

Morgan Cars Malvern Theatres Elgar Birthplace Museum Three Counties Showground

Voted one of the top 10 views in the UK Visit our website at www.visitthemalverns.org or call 01684 892289 for more information on group itineraries

World Rugby Muse um & S t a dium Tours

VISIT

the HOME of

RUGBY

t 020 8892 8877 e museum@rfu.com w rfu.com/museum 10% discount for groups of 15+

Visit Stoke-on-Trent Best of Stoke-on-Trent Minutes from J15 and J16 of the M6 Portmeirion Factory Shops Stoke: 01782 411756/743649 Longton: 01782 326661 Trentham: 01782 657828/743418 portmeirion.co.uk

The Regent Theatre & Victoria Hall Groups Hotline: 0844 871 7619 atgtickets.com/stoke

Stoke-on-Trent Museums Gladstone Pottery Museum 01782 237777

The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery 01782 232323 stoke.gov.uk/museum

Trentham Gardens & Shopping Village Get

10%

FREE

Discounrt for you group

01782 645215/646646 trentham.co.uk

Trentham Monkey Forest 01782 659845 monkey-forest.com

World of Wedgwood 01782 282986 worldofwedgwood.com

Request your Passport

For further information, incentives available, a free copy of the group guide, coach passport and discount vouchers, and help with itinerary planning contact Visit Stoke-on-Trent 01782 236084 potteries@stoke.gov.uk visitstoke.co.uk/groups Twitter.com/visitstoke

Facebook.com/visitstoke

VISITSTOKE.CO.UK

VISIT STOKE ON TRENT - THE POTTERIES

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. Less than an hour’s drive from Birmingham and Manchester, Stoke-on-Trent is a fantastic destination for groups. Visit our award-winning ceramic museums and visitor centres, and go on a factory tour and learn about the sills and craftsmanship that go into producing our famous pottery. Have a go at creating your own masterpiece with the many hands-on opportunities available, and shop till you drop with the many pottery factory shops in the City. World-famous brands such as Wedgwood, Moorcroft, Spode, Aynsley and Portmeirion, are all based in the City. The history and heritage of the area is well preserved at numerous locations across the city including Middleport Pottery, the filming location for the BBC’s The Great Pottery Throw Down, and the award-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! The World of Wedgwood, which opened its doors to visitors in July 2015, is a brand new unique visitor experience celebrating the very best of British industrial and design heritage. Experience Wedgwood for the day through spectacular shopping, food and visitor tours. Stoke-on-Trent – which hit the horticultural headlines thirty years ago, by hosting the 1986 National Garden Festival – is now set to take a leading role in one of the most important horticultural celebrations in recent times: the tercentenary of Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown in 2016.

The Trentham Estate – voted as Countryfile magazine’s “Garden of the Year” in 2015 and named in VisitEngland’s 2016 Ten of the Best Gardens for Groups – became one of Brown’s most celebrated successes, and is now currently involved in one of the biggest parkland projects in Britain, to rediscover Capability’s lost landscape and enhancing it with breath taking contemporary planting on a truly vast scale. The Trentham Estate is also home to Trentham Shopping, where you will find a unique shopping experience in a lovely friendly village atmosphere; and Trentham Monkey Forest, the only place in Britain where you can walk amongst 140 Barbary macaques roaming free in 60 acres of beautiful English forest. Other spectacular garden attractions include the Dorothy Clive Garden and Biddulph Grange Garden, where your group will be taken on a tour of the world from Italy to the pyramids of Egypt, a Victorian vision of China and re-creation of a Himalayan glen. Elsewhere - in a Cultural Quarter which also boasts The Regent Theatre and The Victoria Hall - 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. For further information, incentives available, a free copy of the group guide, coach passport and discount vouchers, and help with itinerary planning contact Visit Stoke-on-Trent on 01782 236084, email potteries@stoke.gov.uk or visit www.visitstoke.co.uk/groups

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From castles and cathedrals, galleries to gourmet, The Garden of England offers visitors a diverse mix of exciting tourism and leisure destinations for all. Nestled between London and the continent, Kent is world renowned for its rural beauty, rich heritage and spectacular coastline. As England’s oldest county, Kent is alive with history and cultural splendour. A wealth of National Trust and English Heritage sites await your arrival, many of which are open all year round. Follow Chaucer’s pilgrims to Canterbury Cathedral, search Charles Dickens’ favourite haunts in Rochester, unravel royal romances at Hever Castle and Penshurst Place, enjoy the glamour of Leeds Castle and unlock the private worlds of Winston Churchill or Charles Darwin. Kent is also home to world-class cultural venues including the stunning Turner Contemporary art gallery in Margate, the restored Beaney Art Museum and Library in Canterbury or No1. Smithery at the Historic Dockyard Chatham. Kent’s rich landscapes are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with more than 4,000 miles of footpaths crisscrossing Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Admire the views from the iconic White Cliffs, clamber through trees at Bedgebury National Pinetum, explore a slice of Africa at Howletts Wild Animal Park and Port Lympne Reserve, and discover more than 180 stunning formal gardens. Kent is also home to over 100 golf courses, including world class venues such as Royal St Georges at Sandwich. Kent also offers clean, family-friendly sand and pebble beaches, including some 15 sandy beaches and bays along the Thanet coast encompassing the popular resorts of Margate, Broadstairs and

Ramsgate. Surfers can head to Joss Bay while kite surfing is available at Whitstable. A visit to Kent is incomplete without savouring its rich produce. Visitors can lunch on fresh fare at Canterbury’s The Goods Shed, England’s only six-days-a-week farmers’ market. Or why not enjoy a handcrafted ale from Britain’s oldest brewer, Shepherd Neame in Faversham, or sip an award-winning wine from one of our many vineyards? Shoppers can indulge retail therapy in thriving independent high streets such as Whitstable and Deal, or head to Bluewater, one of the largest retail outlets in Europe. And the shops, boutiques and markets of northern France are only an hour away. And when it comes to resting your head, Kent can cater for every taste. You can live like a king inside a castle, indulge in some luxurious and unique glamping offers, relax in four-star hotels, be free and easy in a self-catering cottage, or find the perfect bedroom for your style and budget. The list of things to do and enjoy in Kent is endless. Our outstanding transport connections to London and Europe (due to expand in 2015) make Kent an attractive location for weekend breaks & day trips, business meetings or stopovers en route to the continent.

Taste salt-spray. Smell apple blossom. Drink history. For more information visit www.visitkent.co.uk or follow on twitter @visitkent

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Ancient Castle, Stately Home & Gardens for more details, call 01903 882173 or visit www.arundelcastle.org

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

Open 10:30am - 5:00pm visit www.bressingham.co.uk for further details Tel 01379 686900

A Grand Day Out for Groups

DISCOVER YORKSHIRE’S MAGNIFICENT ATTRACTIONS

hroughout Yorkshire’s countryside, cities and coastline sit some of the UK’s favourite attractions and Yorkshire’s Magnificent Attractions brings you the very best of them! We aim to help make your unforgettable days out a bit more affordable so that you and your family can enjoy those special trips time and time again.

Deep and see the stunning sights of the underwater world along with some Very Important Penguins in their Kingdom of Ice. Stockeld Park has got everything from an illuminated forest to an impressive ice rink for a fabulous family day out.

e know that the exhilarating rides and explosive science experiments that our attractions throw at us might not be for everyone, which is why we’ve spent years creating the perfect collection of attractions that can offer something for everyone. We’ve even put together an informative education pack designed to help teachers discover the wonderful world of Yorkshire! f it’s a thrilling journey of adrenaline-fuelled escapades that you’re looking for, head north and put your nerves to the test at Lightwater Valley’s Theme Park offering mini, mega and ultimate adventures - whatever the weather! If it’s a battle amongst your family to choose the perfect day out, Flamingo Land combines spine-tingling rollercoaster rides, close-up animal encounters and plenty of activities to keep the younger guests entertained. Alternatively, do something different and enjoy a unique adventure of tractor and trailer rides at Diggerland!

or the animal lovers amongst our Yorkshire friends, there’s a whole host of places where visitors can get up close and connect with the animal kingdom. Welcome new animals into the world every week at Cannon Hall Farm and encounter the exotic at The Tropical Butterfly House Wildlife and Falconry Centre with unforgettable free-flying bird shows and charismatic animal encounters. Discover your family’s wild side at Yorkshire Wildlife Park with a unique view into the world of animals or dive into The

t’s not all about the enlightening experiences of roller-coasters and animal delights; we’ve packed a whole range of attractions where families can enjoy stimulating trips filled with educational explorations starting with a delicious trip down a very sweet memory lane at York’s CHOCOLATE Story and for the younger masterminds out there, Eureka! Children’s Museum or the Thackray Medical Museum will inspire and encourage them to discover the world around them. f you want to experience a little more history on your travels, the National Coal Mining Museum for England uncovers the world of mining 140m beneath the surface, while JORVIK Viking centre in York and the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds bring history back to life.

ealise your family’s creative potential at the Hepworth Wakefield or explore the extraordinary visual delights of Yorkshire Sculpture Park. If you prefer to behold the natural beauty of Yorkshire, a wander around Newby Hall and Gardens or a journey along the North Yorkshire Moors Railway ticks all the boxes.

o if the kids want a little adventure, or you want them to learn while they play, come rain or shine we’ve got creative, educational and fun all bundled into one magnificent day out! WWW.AGRANDDAYOUT.NET

Discover 2000 Years of History with a PASTPORT from EXPERIENCE YORK’S HORRID HISTORY AT BARLEY HALL

EXPLORE THE VIKING CITY OF JORVIK

DISCOVER AMAZING ARTEFACTS AT DIG

MARVEL AT ROYALTY AT THE RICHARD III & HENRY VII EXPERIENCES

get yours today from one of these five attractions and receive 12 months unlimited free admission

The JORVIK Group is owned and operated by York Archaeological Trust, a registered charity in England and Wales (No.509060) and Scotland (SCO42846).

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EXPLORE ESSEX Essex is a real county of contrasts offering a rich tapestry of everything that makes Britain great. There is a wonderful collection of old and new, and Essex manages to combine modern facilities, heritage properties, beautiful green gardens and magnificent coastlines to create the perfect day out. One day you could be enjoying the freshest seafood on the esplanade at Southend and taking a stroll along its extraordinary pleasure pier, the longest in the world and the next soaking up the atmosphere at any one of its many centuries-old buildings. Our historic sites, the arts, literature and museums offer a fascinating insight to the richness of our culture. Artists such as John Constable, Sir Alfred Munnings and Edward Bawden have always known about the county’s uniqueness and beauty. Today the artistic tradition continues, as heralded by Harlow’s treasure trove of public sculptural art and the wealth of contemporary talent in hotspots such as Wivenhoe and Leigh-on-Sea. The Essex Discovery Coast is the longest coastline of any English county at some 350 miles. It is therefore of no surprise that Essex has a strong maritime tradition. Perhaps most famous of the traditional seaside resorts are Clacton-on-Sea and Southend-on-Sea. However, Essex’s

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coastline has far more to offer the visitor. There are many hidden treasures to be found, with quiet cliff top walks, seductive rugged coves, to the lengthy stretches of beautiful beaches. Over 70% of Essex is rural, with small market towns, traditional villages and tiny hamlets linked by quiet country lanes. Undulating farmland is interspersed with small woodlands. Thatched cottages and timber framed farmhouses are very characteristic as are the unmistakable outlines of windmills which still punctuate the horizon. There are over 3500 miles of public footpaths, bridleways and byways as well as plenty of well known walks around some of the most beautiful scenery which has inspired some of our greatest artists. The Essex Way and the St Peter’s Way are long distance walks criss-crossing the county offering a fantastic challenge to passionate walkers.

The county’s dry climate coupled with its gently rolling landscapes speckled with picturesque villages, have inspired a range of well-known and lesser-known gardeners to work their magic. ‘Capability’ Brown’s vision of temples, lakes and tranquil vistas, is immortalised at Audley End. Down the centuries, Essex has been home to a number of famous residents. John Constable, England’s greatest landscape painter was inspired by the beauty of Dedham Vale. William Harvey was one of the outstanding contributors to the 17th century’s scientific discovery with the discovery of the circulation of blood. Hedingham Castle was once home to Edward de Vere,

believed by many to be the true author of Shakespeare’s works. Today a different kind of celebrity can be found in Essex. Entrepreneurs and chefs, music stars and actors, writers and poets including the likes of Lord Alan Sugar, Jamie Oliver, Helen Mirren, Clive Owen, Germain Greer, Blur and Alison Moyet share one common thing – they are all past or present residents of Essex.

For more information check out www.visitessex.com

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WELCOME TO DORSET!

There are just so many things to do and see in Dorset ... Below are just a few that might interest you! - Explore the glorious Dorset countryside by following one of the many walking trails which criss-cross the county. The Wessex Ridgeway is one of the longest – along the way there are intriguing artistic sculptures with poetry by James Crowdon. Or try the South West Coast Path which stretches along almost all of Dorset’sstunning coastline. Inaccessible by road for most of the distance, thePath offers unspoiled coastal countryside with spectacular views overthe sea. Among the many highlights is Golden Cap, the highest spot along the south coast of England. - Go to a farmers’ market held in the key towns around the county to savour some of the area’s delicious local food; one of the best is Bridport’s every 2nd Saturday of the month; the town is in the heart of Dorset’s farmlands. Dorset Vinny Cheese with Knob Biscuits or Dorset Apple Cake are just two of the local specialities. If you visit during Dorset Food Week in October, you can join in activities at over 100 locations www.dorsetfoodweek.co.uk. - Visit Corfe Castle - Built by William the Conqueror, it is now one of Britain’s most majestic ruins, over 1,000 years old and set on a natural mound dominating the Purbeck district of Dorset. - Take to the water on some of the country’s finest sailing and watersports spots – the National Sailing Academy is at Weymouth & Portland and along the coast, there are plenty of locations to hire boats and kayaks or let someone else do the work and take a boat trip from one of the harbours such as Weymouth, Lyme Regis, Bridport, Swanage or Christchurch. - Visit one of the county’s many gardens which flourish in one of the country’s mildest climates. Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens has a extensive collection of plants from around the world. Athelhampton House is over 500 years old and famous for its topiary and Knoll Gardens is seen as one of the best gardens for grasses in the country. - Dorset hosts England’s only natural World Heritage Site, known as The Jurassic Coast, designated because of its outstanding

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geology spanning 185 million years of the earth’s history. The beaches of Lyme Regis or Charmouth abound with fossils – regular guided public fossil walks are held. - Stroll along Chesil Beach. At over 22km long, Chesil Beach is one of the world’s longest barrier beaches. The pebbles are naturally graded by the tides in size from fist-sized near Portland to pea-sized at Bridport. - Visit Lyme Regis Cobb, made famous by the film of John Fowles’ novel “The French Lieutenant’s Woman”, it is a distinctively-shaped harbour at this historic seaside resort. - See Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, two of the best-known and most distinctive rock formations along the Dorset coast, Lulworth Cove, a perfect horse-shoe shape and the limestone archway of Durdle Door have been visitor highlights for generations. - Climb up to the top of Christchurch Priory for panoramic views across the area. The Priory is the longest church in England and one of the few to survive Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries - Clamber up to the top of the many prehistoric hillforts in Dorset such as Hambledon Hill near Blandford Forum or Eggardon Hill near Bridport for some of the best views of Dorset – steep climes are involved but there’s always a pub nearby in which to recover! - Explore Thomas Hardy country; key ‘musts’ are seeing Hardy’s rather stern statue in Dorchester, visiting the Dorset County Museum for the world’s largest collection of Hardy memorabilia and visiting the picturesque cottage where he was born. Around the Dorset countryside are countless places which appeared in his novels – much of the countryside still looks the same as described in his novels. - Admire the glorious fan-vaulted ceiling of the county’s ‘cathedral’ Sherborne Abbey and sfterwards, explore the boutiques and antique shops of Sherborne, one of the county’s most historic and attractive towns which was once the capital of Wessex.

For further information: www.visit-dorset.com

BOSTON

If you are able to climb the tower, you will be rewarded with spectacular views for 20 miles around and, on a clear day, Lincoln Cathedral can sometimes be seen. The award-winning Boston Guildhall, one of Lincolnshire’s secret medieval gems and dating back to 1390, is the best free show in town. Its museum tells the story of the history of the Guildhall and the town and borough with a series of displays and exhibitions. This historic monument to 600 years of development includes the story of where the Pilgrim Fathers were imprisoned.

Google “Boston” and you’ll end up in a world-famous city in America. But Google “Boston, Lincolnshire” and you’ll end up in the much-more historic location to which its namesake across the ocean owes its existence. The original Boston stands proud in the Lincolnshire fens, its place in history marked out for miles around by the famous world-beating “Stump”. Boston’s status and wealth led to the construction of its parish church on a grand scale. During the 12th and 13th centuries Boston was a thriving port, and by the 14th century Boston had become the fourth-richest provincial town in England. A reminder of those great times, the tower of St Botolph’s, affectionately known as the “Stump”, remains one of the east of England’s most enduring and imposing landmarks. This wonderful example of architecture is the tallest non-cathedral church tower in the world to roof (not spire) and has acted as a landmark to sailors for centuries.

The Pilgrim Fathers New World adventure began here and a monument by the river near Fishtoft marks the spot where they tried to escape to Holland in 1607. Eventually they escaped religious persecution, landed in America and named their new homes in honour of the places they had known and loved and sadly left behind. In the 1630s more than 10% of Boston’s population sailed to the new lands, founding, Boston, Massachusetts.

Next door to the Guildhall is Fydell House, which also offers free admission. The house is a fine example of domestic architecture of the period with many of the original features. Joseph Kennedy opened the American room in 1938 in his role as Ambassador of The USA and the gardens have been beautifully restored to their original state. Another spectacular feature of the town is the Maud Foster Mill, the tallest remaining commercial windmill in the UK. The mill is in easy walking distance of the town centre and just off the A52 Skegness Road for car drivers and there is free parking on site. Boston’s thriving open-air market on Wednesdays and Saturdays is the largest in Lincolnshire and has been held for more than 450 years. There is a Farmers’ Market on the third Wednesday of each month.

The town retains its traditional market place, surrounded by a variety of national and locally-owned shops. In addition it has a historic network of feeder alleyways and streets, themselves home to some of the most interesting trading establishments. Boston is also the gateway to some of Lincolnshire’s finest surrounding countryside from the rolling Lincolnshire Wolds to bracing Skegness and the wilderness of the world-famous Wash estuarine salt-marsh RSPB reserves including Frampton Marsh and its visitor centre.

Tourist Information (01205) 365954 Website : www.boston.gov.uk Email : TICBoston@boston.gov.uk

Heritage, Herriot & Heirlooms

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Three of North Yorkshire’s premier attractions opportunity to see collections and memorabilia The World of The Garden Rooms have teamed up to provide a unique and easy to and take a light lunch or The creamWensleydale tea at arrange group visit to the Yorkshire Dales The Garden Rooms at Tennants, one of the James Herriot at Tennants Railway “Herriot Country”. leading regional auction houses in the country.

Visit all three and you’ll help your guests to All three attractions can be booked together at enjoy a fabulous experience through some of an all-inclusive group travel price in this unique Yorkshire’s finest countryside from the partnership, especially for groups. Wensleydale Railway, see inside the original home of world famous vet James Herriot at the It’s easy to arrange, simply call 0845 838 6338 or of James Herriot in Thirsk, plusRooms the at TennantsEmail: take3@greatpotential.co.uk TheWorld multi-award-winning World of James Herriot The Garden is a truly unique venue The Wensleydale Railway is an authentic heritage

Heritage, Herriot & Heirlooms

(WoJH) pays homage to the life and times of the and incorporates a restaurant, a fully stocked bar and a railway, oﬀering visitors, families and transport _________________________________________________________________________________________________ world’s most famous vet, Alf Wight OBE. self-service café. Light lunches or more leisurely afterenthusiasts a great value day out in the Yorkshire noon teas are included in our Heritage, Herriot and Dales (Herriot Country) with lots to see and do Heirlooms Groups Welcome partnership. along the way. Set in the former Thirsk surgery and home of Alf Wight, WoJH brings to life his colourful story: his The Wensleydale Railway is a wonderful heritage See collections and memorabilia, hear talks from our lifetime’s work as a vet and his ever popular specialists in art and collectables (prior arrangement and experience for groups between visits to The Garden writing as ‘James Herriot’. supplement), there will always be something to entertain Rooms at Tennants and The World of James Herriot. and it’s a unique experience for groups. Allow an hour and Start and ﬁnish points can be from either end of the Allowing around an hour for a self-guided visit, a half to two hours for a self-guided visit. line or can be for trips both ways. (Please check WoJH is ideal for group travel guests. about timetable and private charter bookings.)

The World of James Herriot

The multi-award-winning World of James Herriot (WoJH) pays homage to the life and times of the world’s most famous vet, Alf Wight OBE. Set in the former Thirsk surgery and home of Alf Wight, WoJH brings to life his colourful story: his lifetime’s work as a vet and his ever popular writing as ‘James Herriot’. Allowing around an hour for a self-guided visit, WoJH is ideal for group travel guests.

The Garden Rooms at Tennants

The Wensleydale Railway

The Garden Rooms at Tennants is a truly unique venue and incorporates a restaurant, a fully stocked bar and a self-service café. Light lunches or more leisurely afternoon teas are included in our Heritage, Herriot and Heirlooms Groups Welcome partnership.

The Wensleydale Railway is an authentic heritage railway, oﬀering visitors, families and transport enthusiasts a great value day out in the Yorkshire Dales (Herriot Country) with lots to see and do along the way.

See collections and memorabilia, hear talks from our specialists in art and collectables (prior arrangement and supplement), there will always be something to entertain and it’s a unique experience for groups. Allow an hour and a half to two hours for a self-guided visit.

The Wensleydale Railway is a wonderful heritage experience for groups between visits to The Garden Rooms at Tennants and The World of James Herriot. Start and ﬁnish points can be from either end of the line or can be for trips both ways. (Please check about timetable and private charter bookings.)

Heritage, Herriot & Heirlooms Group Welcome to North Yorkshire Easy to reach via A1(M) North Yorkshire

The Royal Mint Visitor Centre Opening Spring 2016 Over 1,000 years in the making... well worth the wait

A new and unique destination for UK tourism. • Guided factory experience • Interactive exhibition • Café and gift shop • All-weather experience • Group rates and incentives • Just 10 minutes from M4 Junction 34

To find out more please email: visitorcentre@royalmint.com

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