GTW_April_2015

New attraction launches at West Midland Safari Park – see pages 56-57

interviews with...

EVE PONSONBY from Shakespeare in Love and ALEX BEAUMONT from Dreamboats and Miniskirts

PLUS

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Family-friendly day trips and short break itineraries

HOSTEL FOCUS

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BATTLE OF WATERLOO 200

Attractions in London that commemorate the bicentenary

9 772048 339008

BRITISH & EUROPEAN THEME PARKS

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Historic attractions and tracing the Wales Coast Path

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EDITOR’S LETTER

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EDITORIAL Managing Editor: Gareth Evans T: 01733 293243 E: gareth.evans@grouptravelworld.com Features Writer: Amy Moore E: amy.moore@grouptravelworld.com Art Director: Ian Blaza E: raspberryjamcreative@gmail.com Contributors: Holly Cave, Patricia Mediavilla, Amy O’Donovan, Helen Milbank, Angela Youngman

ADVERTISING Advertising and Marketing Manager Julie Cousins T: 01733 293242 E: julie.cousins@grouptravelworld.com Advertising Client Manager Harley Denham T: 01733 293249 E: harley.denham@grouptravelworld.com Marketing and Subscriptions Executive Julie Agius T: 01733 293 245 E: julie.agius@grouptravelworld.com Advertising Production June Barnard T: 01473 858761 E: june@adsproduction.co.uk

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Resorts World Birmingham boasts the first European Resorts World and is scheduled to open in summer 2015 at the NEC Birmingham

Entertainment Evolution

T

he image (above) details an impression of the new Resorts World Birmingham, which seeks to become a haven for group shoppers visiting the Midlands. In keeping with this month’s UK & European Shopping Destinations feature (65), Resorts World Birmingham is a purpose built 12-storey entertainment complex that will mainly offer shopping opportunities, housing approximately 50 retail units, including the largest John Lewis outside London. Skip to GTO Grapevine on page (76) for GTW’s brief review of Best of Britain & Ireland 2015, including more information on the complex. Speaking of entertainment, you may have noticed a taster regarding the launch of West Midland Safari Park’s new attraction, Land of the Living Dinosaurs, on this month’s front cover.

GTW attended during its preview week from March 14, 2015. See our exclusive photo gallery on pages (12) and (13), with more information provided on pages (56) and (57) within Britain’s Best Theme Parks.

GTW has travelled further afield in European Theme Parks (59), including information on Efteling in the Netherlands, which has been labelled one of Europe’s most successful theme parks and boasts an antique fairytale setting. Featured on the front page is a striking image of

Caernarfon Castle, which refers to our creative Castles, Abbeys and Cathedrals segment on page (27). Caernarfon Castle also refers to our regional focus on page (19) that traces the recently constructed Wales Coast Path. Pages (16) and (17) aim to provide ideas for a Battle of Waterloo themed itinerary in the capital to commemorate its 200th anniversary in 2015, and in regards to reader response, we have a competition for four lucky people to win group tickets to the 2015 Battle Proms at Blenheim Palace (76). We’re excited to see more people engaging with the magazine. Don’t hesitate to contact Julie Agius, GTW’s Marketing and Subscriptions Executive, with feedback on past, present or future issues of GTW: julie.agius@grouptravelworld.com.

I recently embarked on a weekend away to Canterbury, which seems to be a popular touring spot for groups in 2015 (76). You can read the write up within our upcoming May edition.

That’s all for now.

Amy Moore — Features Writer

#HAVE YOUR SAY GTW wants to hear your thoughts on the industry. Tell us your opinions on emerging travel trends or write a response to any article featured in past or present editions. Entries may be published in a future issue. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more updates.

www.grouptravelworld.com

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IN THIS ISSUE

6 12 16

NEWS

The latest news from the world of travel and tourism

NEWS FOCUS

West Midland Safari Park launches Land of the Living Dinosaurs in March 2015

BATTLE OF WATERLOO

A look at London attractions celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo in 2015

19 4

WONDERFUL WALES

roup-friendly attractions G dotted along the recently launched Wales Coast Path

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27

CASTLES, ABBEYS & CATHEDRALS

GTW round-up the UK’s most significant historical attractions

32 34 36

LONDON & PARTNERS

The latest tourism developments in the capital, focusing on attractions along the River Thames

THEATRE NEWS

The latest theatre news, including cast changes and new shows

THEATRE REVIEW

GTW reviews Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown

38 40 42 44 46

THEATRE LISTINGS

Details on touring theatre and current West End shows

THEATRE INTERVIEW

GTW chats to Eve Ponsonby, who plays Viola De Lesseps in Shakespeare in Love

THEATRE LISTINGS

Information on touring theatre productions

THEATRE INTERVIEW

Dreamboats and Miniskirts’ Alex Beaumont discusses his experience on tour

COMEDY LISTINGS

Information regarding upcoming comedy tours www.grouptravelworld.com

26/03/2015 10:11

New attraction launches at Midland Safari Park – see West pages 56-57

interviews with... EVE PONSONBY from Shakespea

in Love and ALEX BEAUMONT from

PLUS

Dreamboats and Miniskirts

re

APRIL 2015 groupt ravelworld.com £3.95

UK THEME PARKS

GTW explores Britain’s best theme park attractions ideal for group travel itineraries

EUROPEAN THEME PARKS

Hop across the Channel and enjoy Europe’s finest theme park attractions

RETAIL THERAPY

A round-up of UK and European shopping venues that combine retail therapy with a great day out

www.grouptravelworld.com

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70 75 76 78

HOSTEL FOCUS

Take a fresh look at quirky and unusual hostels within the UK and Europe

UKINBOUND

The latest news from UKinbound, including the launch of its new A5-size Members Directory, and the Tourism Society’s upcoming Symposium

GTO GRAPEVINE

Useful tips for GTOs, including upcoming events

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

Claire Martin, Coach and Events Manager at Boundary Mill Stores, Colne

Historic attractions and tracing the Wales

BRITISH & EUROPEAN THEME PARKS

Family-friendly day trips and short break itineraries

HOSTEL FOCUS

Budget accommodation options in Wales and abroad

Coast Path

BATTLE OF WATERLOO 200

04

The latest news from the trade association, including a members update

Attractions in London that commemorate the bicentenary

9 772048 339008

49 52 59 65

COACH TOURISM COUNCIL

COVER: Caernarfon Castle, Gwynedd VISITBRITAIN CONTENTS: Vue de Goudrix at Parc Astérix.

ANDROCAM April 2015 ● Group Travel World

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NEWS

Explore Life Under The Sea

Who’s Got Your Vote?

Finalists for the 2015 UK Coach Awards have been announced, an accolade that celebrates the UK’s best coach companies, drivers and their staff. A total of 33 people, projects and organisations have been shortlisted across 11 categories.

They include Shearings Holidays for its 2015 Touring Programme and Johnsons

Coach and Bus Travel for its 2014 Christmas Programme. Winners will be announced at the annual presentation ceremony, scheduled to take place on April 23 at the Mercure Piccadilly Hotel in Manchester.

For more information contact Chris Cheek on 01729 840756.

All The Fun Of The (Cheese) Fair National Sea Life Centre Birmingham boasts a fascinating group experience

National Sea Life Centre Birmingham freezes group prices for 2015 The National Sea Life Centre Birmingham has frozen its group prices for 2015 in a bid to attract coach parties to this renowned West Midlands attraction.

Discounted tickets for prebooked parties of 10 plus remain at the current rate of £14.50 per person including a free downloadable activity pack, in addition to free admission to the 4D cinema, which screens films that visitors can feel and smell.

Prices will also be frozen for specialist group visits, including preschools from £6

per child, with one free teacher admitted per every two paying children. Scouts, Guides, Cubs, Beavers and Brownies cost £7.25 per child.

The attraction transports visitors to an amazing underwater world where they will get to admire sea life from all over the planet; from the coast of Britain and the chilly Antarctic to the tropical waters of the Caribbean.

The aquarium is home to over 2,000 creatures including sharks, a giant green sea turtle, jellyfish, piranha, octopus and rays.

For further information or to pre-book tickets online visit www.SEALIFE.co.uk/ birmingham

Enjoy the Artisan Cheese Fair in Melton Mowbray from May 2-3, 2015 The UK’s largest festival of cheese returns at the Artisan Cheese Fair, which takes place in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire from May 2-3.

More than 50 cheese makers will be showcasing an excess of 250 different products, including some of the UK’s rarest produce.

Visitors will have the opportunity to taste test the UK’s many and varied cheeses, learn in the daily programme

Musical History On Display In Liverpool After lying in a locked cupboard covered in dust for 50 years, an incredible piece of musical history has gone on public display at the award-winning Beatles Story in Liverpool – the world’s largest permanent exhibition devoted to the lives and times of The Beatles. The hand-written notes

by George Martin from the 6

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George Martin’s hand-written notes from The Beatles’ 1965 recording sessions first recording of Help – dated February 15, 1965 – are now on show, revealing the structure of

the sessions and the departure from The Beatles’ usual recording methods, as the band

of talks, demonstrations and tastings given by industry experts, as well as enjoy Leicestershire’s many other delicacies including local ales, wines, chutneys and Melton Mowbray’s famous pork pie.

The Artisan Cheese Fair will be held from 1000hrs to 1600hrs at the Cattle Market in Scalford Road, Melton Mowbray. Entry is just £2 per person. For more information on the event visit www.artisancheesefair.co.uk

recorded their fifth album at Studio Two at EMI Studios, Abbey Road.

“The notes were held in the Beatles Story archive and it seemed fitting to display these 50 years since they were written to celebrate the album’s recording sessions,” says Martin King of the Beatles Story.

“We’re always looking to add to what we have on offer here at the Albert Dock and with our 25th anniversary coming up there’ll be lots more to come.”

For more on ticket prices and to organise your group tour visit www.beatlesstory.com www.grouptravelworld.com

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# GTW DIRECTORY

A Trip On The Wild Side Two of the UK’s biggest and best-loved animal attractions – ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo – have announced new exhibits for 2015, in addition to groupfriendly discounts. ZSL London Zoo’s new In With The Lemurs exhibit has no barriers and allows wildlife lovers to get closer than ever before to its ring-tailed lemurs. Visitors can find out how lemurs use their tails for communication, balancing and stink fighting, watch them sunbathing and learn more about the plight of these incredible animals in the wild. ZSL London Zoo is offering 25% off the admission price for parties of 10 plus, free entry plus a £5 meal voucher for coach drivers and one free adult ticket for every 10 paying children.

Tickets Now On Sale For Comedy Gala Live Channel 4’s Comedy Gala Live - in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity – returns to London’s O2 Arena on Friday May 15, 2015.

For more ideas, news and inspiration to help you book your day out or short break, see Group Travel World’s online directory at www.grouptravelworld.com/directory

l a m i n A of the Month

Visitors to Knowsley Safari in Merseyside will be hearing the pitter-patter of tiny webbed feet this spring as keepers introduce the park’s first ever capybara pups.

Smudge and Sprout have been staying close to first-time parents Mrs Brown and Benny as they explore the park’s Equatorial Trail. Native to South America, the capybara is a semi-aquatic animal and the largest rodent in the world.

Weighing up to 150pounds and growing up to four-and-a-half feet long, they are excellent swimmers and can stay under

Smudge and Sprout are Knowsley Safari’s first ever Capybara pups water for up to five minutes.

“Mum and babies are doing well and settling into family life,” says Craig Scott, an animal keeper at Knowsley Safari. “Visitors will be able to take a ride on the Equatorial Express and keep a

sharp eye out for the pups as they learn to swim in Mizzy Lake and explore the four-acre Equatorial Trail.”

For more on group visits see www.knowsleysafariexperience. co.uk

Tickets are currently on sale and the all-star line up includes Alan Carr, Jack Dee, Jason Byrne, Jonathan Ross, Jon Richardson, Josh Widdicombe, Katherine Ryan, Kevin Bridges, Michael McIntyre and Rich Hall, with many more acts to be announced. To book group tickets visit tinyurl.com/ lc3x6dv

Butterfly Farm Celebrates Its 30th 2015 marks the 30th anniversary of the Stratford Butterfly Farm in Warwickshire and to celebrate, it is staging an exhibition of old photographs taken when it was first opened by David Bellamy in July 1985.

The exhibition will give visitors an insight into the history of the farm and runs until the end of October. Entrance is included in the overall ticket price. Since the mid-1980s, the attraction has grown to become Britain’s largest and most successful butterfly farm with more than 100,000 visitors each year. Set in a large tropical greenhouse landscaped with waterfalls, ponds and tropical plants, visitors can interact with thousands of exotic butterflies from all over the

world. Over the years, Stratford Butterfly Farm has added to its exotic bird collection and now boasts a Kakariki parrot that originates from New Zealand, who lives alongside the farm’s cockatiels, green ring-necked paraquets and the flightless Chinese painted quails. In Insect City, there’s a new snake tank for 2015 that houses a royal python, while over in Arachnoland is a Goliath bird-eating spider – considered to be the largest in the world.

Stratford Butterfly Farm is open from 1000hrs to 1730hrs daily.

Entry fees are £6.25 for adults, £5.75 for seniors and students, £5.25 for children (under 3s go free) and £18.50 for a family ticket (two adults and two children).

April 2015 ● Group Travel World

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See www.butter�lyfarm.co.uk for more details or call 01789

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NEWS

Travels...

Tidbit ●

Visiting a WWT Wetland Centre with your group will now be even better value as it’s doubling its group discount to 15%. Find out more at wwt.org. uk/groups

●

Flybe has announced the opening of a new base at Cardiff airport. This builds on its growing network of bases including Aberdeen, Belfast, Birmingham, Bournemouth, Edinburgh, Exeter, Glasgow, Manchester and Southampton.

Tickets for flights from Cardiff are on sale now. For details visit www.flybe.com

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RAF Museum London has received an £87,600 donation from the City Bridge Trust to support its work to support older visitors. The money will be used to fund a run of events and activities to support the museum’s First World War exhibition. For more on group visits to the museum visit www.rafmuseum.org

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Annie’s Restaurant and Tearooms in Manchester has launched a new group offering. One of the many packages available is a special group rate of £12.95, which includes a three-course lunch and a complimentary drink. To tailor your group visit call 0161 839 4423 or email bookings@ anniesmanchester.co.uk

Sculpture Park Celebrates Artist’s Work Yorkshire Sculpture Park invites groups to delve into artist Henry Moore’s life and works this summer Yorkshire Sculpture Park in Wakefield is inviting artloving groups to ‘breakfast’ with Henry Moore, as the attraction offers a fresh perspective on the artist’s work through a major new exhibition featuring more than 120 of his paintings.

Born into a mining family in Castleford, Henry was one of

the most important artists of the 20th century and a founding patron of Yorkshire Sculpture Park.

To honour this connection, Yorkshire Sculpture Park is offering groups a range of exclusive Henry Moore: Back to a Land packages designed to help visitors get the most out of their experience.

These include: ● Breakfast with Henry Moore – this allows visitors to enjoy private access from 0900hrs to 1000hrs

to Henry Moore: Back to a Land in Yorkshire Sculpture Park’s Underground Gallery.

The tour begins with an introductory talk and tour of the exhibition and is followed by lunch in the park’s restaurant overlooking Henry Moore’s sculptures that are dotted throughout the country park.

Breakfast With Henry Moore costs £13.75 per person. ● Get to know Henry Moore – this allows visitors to benefit from the specialist knowledge of a Yorkshire Sculpture Park curator during a tour of Henry Moore: Back to a Land, which explores the artist’s radical notion of placing sculpture in the landscape.

This is followed by afternoon tea. Tickets cost £16.75 per person.

Packages run until September 6, 2015.

For more information see ysp.co.uk/groups

Henry Moore’s bronze sculpture Large Two Forms is among those housed in the park. JONTY WILDE

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Park Resorts - the UK’s largest holiday park operator - enjoyed record bookings in its first month of trading in 2015, with bookings up 21% compared to the year before and school holiday bookings up 29%. This comes as the company invests more than £20 million in its 48 UK holiday parks. For more on Park Resorts’ group travel options see www.park-resorts. com

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Prepaid card provider Tuxedo Money Solutions has won ‘Best Travel Companion’ at the 2015 Paybefore Awards for its STA Travel ISIC Prepaid MasterCard.

For more information on the card and its benefits for student travellers visit www. tuxedomoneysolutions.com

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A Further Treat For Art Lovers An exhibition of paintings and prints by the master of British landscape art Leslie Moffat Ward – who died in the late 1970s – will be held at St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery in Lymington, Dorset from Saturday, April 25 until Saturday June 6, 2015.

One of England’s most significant 20th century painter-print makers, Leslie’s evocative etchings, lithographs, linocuts and wood engravings capture a fast-disappearing

world of tranquil countryside and bustling waterways and include views of Poole Harbour and the Isle of Purbeck. The exhibition will feature rarely seen works on loan from private collections, as well as paintings and prints from the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum in Bournemouth.

For more information visit www.stbarbe-museum.org.uk or call 01590 676969.

Leslie Moffat Ward’s Near Worbarrow Bay, Dorset is among those being exhibited. RUSSELLCOTES ART GALLERY AND MUSEUM, BOURNEMOUTH www.grouptravelworld.com

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NEWS

Celebrating Nelson’s Famous War Ship A new exhibition at the Historic Dockyard Chatham marks the 250th anniversary of the launch of HMS Victory 2015 marks the 250th anniversary of the launch of the world’s most famous warship HMS Victory, which was launched at Chatham’s Royal Dockyard on May 7, 1765.

She later led fleets in the American War of Independence, the French Revolutionary War and the Napoleonic War and, in October 1805, achieved everlasting fame as the flagship of ViceAdmiral Nelson in Britain’s greatest naval victory; the defeat of the French and Spanish at the Battle of

Trafalgar.

The Historic Dockyard Chatham will celebrate the anniversary with a new exhibition entitled HMS Victory: The Untold Story, which charts the ship’s history up until that fateful afternoon at the Battle of Trafalgar when Vice-Admiral Nelson was struck down on her deck.

LEFT: See the actual bullet that killed Vice-Admiral Nelson ABOVE: One of the paintings on show at HMS Victory: The Untold Story. MANU PALOMEQUE 22 objects are on loan from the National Maritime Museum Greenwich to complete the exhibition, including original letters and battle plans. While the Nelson Bullet from the Royal Collection – the single lead musket ball that dealt the fatal blow in October 1805 – is

Sleep With The Lions Port Lympne Reserve is set to launch its new Pinewood holiday complex – a development of 10 contemporary camping ‘pods’ that will allow visitors a taste of the African plains as they sleep near the reserve’s lion, Amur tiger and cheetah enclosures.

“We’ll be able to offer an exciting and flexible way to stay at the reserve,” says Bob O’ Connor, Managing Director at Port Lympne Reserve.

Ironbridge Gorge Museum Wins Top Award Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust has been named ‘Best Family Day Out’ in the prestigious 2015 Hudson’s Heritage Awards.

The Shropshire-based attraction competed against the UK’s favourite historic

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Port Lympne Reserve provides a safari experience in the UK. PAUL WEBB “Guests will be able to enjoy exclusive early access to the

houses, gardens, museums and heritage sites in the independently judged awards that celebrate the best visitor experiences.

The 2015 Hudson’s Heritage Awards were presented by historian and broadcaster Dan Snow and were judged by a panel of heritage experts including heritage consultant Norman Hudson OBE, writer and broadcaster Lucinda Lambton and architectural

park before we open to the public and in the evening listen

writer Jeremy Musson.

Sarah Greenwood, Publisher of Hudson’s Historic Houses & Gardens, said: “The judges consider everything about the visitor experience – from what you can do, to refreshments, toilets and merchandise - as well as innovative events, exhibitions and celebrations.

All our winners offer their visitors fantastic experiences and Hudson’s are immensely proud to be involved with

showcased alongside remnants of gold lace from Admiral Nelson’s uniform.

“We’re delighted to be supporting the Historic Dockyard Chatham in the development of this exhibition,” says Andrew Baines, Curator and Project Director for HMS Victory.

“Chatham is the perfect place to begin an exploration of HMS Victory’s story and we hope that people will complete the story by visiting the ship in Portsmouth, where she has been a prominent tourist attraction for the past 190 years.”

HMS Victory: The Untold Story runs until May 31, 2015 at the Historic Dockyard Chatham in Kent.

Entry into the exhibition is included in the dockyard’s normal admission price.

For details of group bookings visit www.thedockyard.co.uk

to the lions, tigers and prowling cheetahs, while snuggled up in their cosy pod.” The site was built with funding from the ICAP Charity Day 2013 and will cater for schools, groups and families on a budget. Pinewood is expected to open this month.

2015 will also see the launch of the attraction’s new Treehouse Hotel – 10 luxury, glass fronted suites set high in the tree line overlooking the reserve.Find out more about group rates at www. aspinallfoundation.org/ shortbreaks or call 0844 855 0274.

a scheme that rewards and recognizes the best heritage attractions.”

Paul Gossage, Director of Marketing and PR at Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust, said: “Winning demonstrates the high standards and commitment we offer our visitors. It’s an acknowledgment that our museums are among the elite of heritage attractions in the UK.” www.ironbridge.org.uk

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p00_GTW_0415 Virgin.qxp 23/03/2015 09:10 Page 1

If you’re booking a trip for ten or more people our UK-based Group Gurus will get you sorted.

With big discounts, hassle-free booking and our experts to guide you through every step, it’s the most enlightening way to travel.

Visit virgintrains.com/grouptravel RU FDOO WR ÀQG RXW PRUH

N E W S F O C U S / / W E S T M I D L A N D S A F A R I PA R K

Attraction Launch

GTW attended the new Land of the Living Dinosaurs attraction at West Midland Safari Park during its preview week from Saturday, March 14 West Midland Safari Park unveiled its anticipated new attraction on March 21, 2015.

Land of the Living Dinosaurs is said to be the UK’s largest animatronic dinosaur attraction, approximately three years in the making. Land of the Living Dinosaurs is located near Lost City Plaza, the domineering entrance to West Midland Safari Park.

Land of the Living Dinosaurs surpasses the likes of Penguin Cove, Twilight Cave and the decorative Sea Lion Theatre, with scheduled showing times.

It welcomes visitors with an immersive walkthrough trail featuring 38 life size dinosaurs, each with moving eyes, mouths and necks, with an aim to appear as realistic as possible.

Visitors to the attraction can even endure the lengthy tail of the Argentinosaurus swooping overhead. Daniel Griffiths, Marketing Manager at West Midland Safari Park, said: “Work initially started

on the £2.5million project in 2012. It led the park’s design team on trips around the world to investigate exactly how the exhibit could be achieved, before various manufacturers were engaged to develop the dinosaurs.

“Meanwhile, the 1,000square metre site for the new, openair display was being created on a parcel of reconfigured land between the four-mile, drive through safari and the existing Discovery Trail. The exhibit has been designed to transport visitors back to a forgotten era, when powerful forces and mayhem ruled the Earth; to a time when only the biggest, strongest and fiercest survived.”

A guaranteed hit with younger visitors, Land of the Living Dinosaurs has been uniquely themed, landscaped and planted with copious amounts of authentic flora including tree ferns and reeds, with some species often camouflaged by their surroundings. Sound effects within the ample extension are indicative of the era and are by no means intrusive to the rest of the park, which is also home to a

Designated Selfie Points combine the ancient with the more modern, with Land of the Living Dinosaurs describing a journey that spans four ages of dinosaur history 12

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mass of animal and theme park attractions suitable for visitors of varying ages. Static fossil displays inject an educational element into an otherwise interactive attraction, with an allocated Dino Dig that invites younger visitors to participate in their own excavation.

Before its initial launch, Land of the Living Dinosaurs was a well-kept secret and entices with three misty pools that further intensifies the visitor experience.

Designated Selfie Points combine the ancient with the more modern, with Land of the Living Dinosaurs describing www.grouptravelworld.com

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a journey that spans four ages of dinosaur history; from Permian to Triassic and from Jurassic to Cretaceous.

Providing the perfect comedic photo opportunity, the entrance to Land of the Living Dinosaurs is flanked with an open-mouthed skeletal form of the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex. Once inside, Land of the Living Dinosaurs features prime examples of the most formidable creatures to roam the planet, including a minute boxed reptile available to stroke, often toured by an enthusiastic member of staff.

Dilophosaurus and Gorgonops

are also featured, including two measuring 8metres tall, with Apatosaurus measuring a staggering 25metres across, alongside the Argentinosaurus at 30metres. Though, what sets this attraction apart is its life size adult Tyrannosaurus Rex, which has been elevated on 4metre rockwork and thus casts a dramatic shadow over the remainder of the attraction.

Equally as impressive is the Sarcosuchus, which translates as ‘flesh crocodile’ and represents the largest croc-like creature ever thought to have lived.

Land of the Living Dinosaurs is considerably less focused

on the informative and more focused on the interactive and engaging, with all dinosaurs exhibited constructed from robust compound rubber housing a moving steel armature, which attributes to realistic movement. Land of the Living Dinosaurs would make the ideal accompaniment to a scheduled day trip, with access to the attraction included in the standard admission charge.

WMSP is open annually between February and November.

Admission for parties of 10 plus is heavily discounted at ÂŁ8.99 per adult.

GTOs are admitted for free.

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Historical re-enactments are scheduled to take place throughout June 2015.

CHANTAL CRAVECOEUR

B I C E N T E N A R Y / / T H E B AT T L E O F W AT E R L O O

A commemorative

day out

J

une 18, 2015 will mark the exact anniversary date of the Battle of Waterloo.

The Battle of Waterloo was fought in Belgium in 1815, approximately 13kilometres south of Brussels, where an alliance of British, Prussian and Belgian soldiers banded together to fight against the French, led by Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte.

Napoleon’s swift rise to power sparked the French Revolution around 1792, continuing with the Napoleonic Wars from 1803. Napoleon’s defeat at the Battle of Waterloo brought approximately 20 years of warfare to an end.

The impact is still evident today, with commemorative events hosted at many attractions around the capital including the Household Cavalry Museum, Windsor Castle, The Fan Museum and Wellington Arch in Hyde Park Corner.

HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY MUSEUM

Household Cavalry Museum is housed within the historic Horse Guards in Whitehall. The structure dates from 1750 and remains the headquarters of the Household Division, home to the Household Cavalry.

The Household Cavalry was formed in 1661 under the order of King Charles II and has since sworn to guard royalty on ceremonial occasions within London and across the UK. In 2015, the Household Cavalry Museum is commemorating the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo, through related exhibits that would have been used by those present on the battlefield.

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With 2015 marking the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo, Amy Moore details attractions in London suitable for a themed itinerary fought to prevent 15,000 French infantry from attacking the Duke of Wellington’s allied line in battle. Group/school visits to the Household Cavalry Museum are available to book Monday to Friday between 0900hrs and 1630hrs. Visits are estimated to take around two/three hours. Catering options are available at an extra charge and coach drivers are admitted free. To book call 01753 755194 or email museum@householdcavalry. co.uk. For more information visit www. householdcavalrymuseum.co.uk

WINDSOR CASTLE

Waterloo at Windsor is scheduled to run until January 13, 2016.

King George IV constructed the Waterloo Chamber at Windsor Castle to commemorate the Duke of Wellington’s

victory at the Battle of Waterloo, and it remains a grand space filled with pivotal portraits. Waterloo at Windsor combines a themed trail through the magnificent State Apartments, which showcases prints, drawings and archive material that further explores the battle and its aftermath.

Exclusively, groups can enjoy the exhibition as part of a special themed visit entitled A Prince, A Duke and An Emperor. Each visit includes an introductory talk with refreshments served in Windsor Castle’s Winchester Tower, before continuing to Waterloo at Windsor, which is hosted in the Drawings Gallery. Groups will then be escorted to the prestigious Waterloo Chamber and through the magnificent State Apartments, which can be explored in the visitors’ own time. Multimedia guides are available

#WHY NOT COMBINE A WATERLOO ITINERARY WITH A TRIP TO SEE LES MISERABLES AT THE QUEENS THEATRE? Celebrating its 30th year in 2015, Les Misérables is undoubtedly one of the world’s longest running and most succesful musicals.

Les Misérables traces hardships from 1815 through to the post-war era (1823-

1832). Group rates are set at £42.50 for parties of 10 plus, with reservations available at no extra cost.

Groups are also invited to pre-order programmes, merchandise and food to accompany a viewing.

Les Misérables is currently booking to September 2015.

To book call 0844 482 5102 or email groupsales@ delmack.co.uk. For more information visit www. lesmis.com

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#200TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT AT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL On Friday, June 5 at 1930hrs, the Royal Albert Hall will showcase an anniversary concert to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo.

Blackadder and Time Team’s Sir Tony Robinson will introduce an intense combination of scenes and music that celebrates the final defeat of French military leader, Napoleon Bonaparte.

Dramatic entertainment at the Battle Proms

Such classical compositions include Beethoven’s Symphony No.5 (First Movement), Schubert’s March Militaire and Beethoven’s Wellington’s Victory (With Live Musket Fire).

Plus, traditional marching songs will be performed in full military gear.

For ticket information visit www.royalalberthall.com/ tickets/battle-of-waterloo

Picnic fare at Battle of Waterloo re-enactment

Waterloo Chamber at Windsor Castle.

ROYAL COLLECTION TRUST 2014

Mark the date: June 18-21. www.waterloo2015.org or alternatively, a special souvenir map can be purchased. A Prince, A Duke and An Emperor is only valid for pre-booked groups. To book call 020 7839 1377 or email traveltrade@royalcollection.org. uk. For more information visit www. royalcollection.org.uk

THE FAN MUSEUM

Waterloo: Life and Times is scheduled to run until May 10, 2015 at the Fan Museum.

Waterloo: Life and Times showcases intricate fan designs intended to commemorate significant military events that occurred in the run up to the Battle of Waterloo, featuring portraits of heroic figures, including the Duke of Wellington.

Visitors to The Fan Museum can expect to see an array of styles on display, dating from 1800 to 1820, detailing cleverly interwoven narratives combined with fashion and decorative art themes. Some artefacts are even constructed from bone.

The Fan Museum welcomes groups of various sizes, ranging from 10-32 people, at a reduced admission rate of £3 per person. Guided tours are available and are led by an experienced curator. www.grouptravelworld.com

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#COMPETITION WIN TICKETS TO THE 2015 BATTLE PROMS See page 76 for more details

Refreshments are available at a small additional cost, including standard or deluxe afternoon tea taken in the Orangery. To book contact Jenni Munday on 020 8305 1441 or email j.munday@ thefanmuseum.org.uk.

For more information visit www. thefanmuseum.org.uk

WELLINGTON ARCH & APSLEY HOUSE

A combined itinerary to adjoining English Heritage sites, Wellington Arch and Apsley House, makes for an ideal central London day trip.

Wellington Arch is currently closed, but reopens with a new exhibition entitled The Battle of Waterloo on April 18, 2015.

Distributed between both attractions, artefacts featured will include the Duke of Wellington’s handwritten orders, his battle sword and an original pair of

‘Wellington Boots.’ Situated in Hyde Park Corner, Wellington Arch was constructed around 1825 to commemorate the Duke of Wellington’s defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte.

Wellington Arch is thus crowned by the largest bronze statue in Europe, depicting the Angel of Peace descending on a fourhorse chariot of war.

From the balconies below, visitors can enjoy pretty panoramic views over London’s Royal Parks, including a glimpse of the Household Cavalry on their way to/ from the Changing of the Guard.

Alternatively, Apsley House was home to the first Duke of Wellington and has remained in the family ever since.

It was in Apsley House that the Duke of Wellington held annual banquets to commemorate the victory, with a copy of the only surviving menu plan on display.

At Wellington Arch and Apsley House, a 15% discount is available for parties of 11 plus, with free entry for the coach driver and tour leader. Guided tours are available for parties of 11-25 people.

For more information visit www. englishheritage.org.uk ■ April 2015 ● Group Travel World

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Abergavenny Market

NP7 5HD

Open Tuesday Friday and Saturday Flea Market Every Wednesday www.abergavennymarket.co.uk For a full list of our markets and events Craft – Antique - and Car boot Sales Please Phone Geoff or Adam on 01873735811

Caldicot Market Open Every Tuesday and Saturday Phone Mac on 07764 362599

Monmouth Bridge Market Shire HallMarket Every Saturday Phone Darren on 07825 761900

©MTN/1079496/150

Every Friday and Saturday

Wales Coast Path launched in 2012 and is clearly signposted

R E G I O N A L F O C U S / / WA L E S

Wonderful

s e l Wa

T

he windswept Wales Coast Path launched in 2012, billing itself as the world’s longest continuous coastal path around a country. It soars from beach to cliff, from the outskirts of Chester in the north to Chepstow in the south. The path’s 870 miles wander past a huge number of group friendly attractions including a geopark, a marine nature reserve, two national parks, three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, 11 national nature reserves, 14 marinas, 14 stretches of Heritage Coastline, 23 Historic Landscape Sites and 43 ‘Blue Flag’ beaches.

Distinctive waymarkers displaying a white shell with a dragon’s tail clearly mark the length of the route and with the longer, warmer summer days approaching, it’s the perfect time to schedule a group visit to this beautiful part of the UK. Here are some ideas, whether you’re determined to walk the whole thing or just explore a few miles of coastline.

Holly Cave explores group friendly attractions dotted along the Wales Coast Path TOWNS & CITIES

At the south of the trail, just over the Severn Bridge and set slightly back along the River Wye, Chepstow makes a great starting point for groups keen to tour South Wales. Consider checking in at the St Pierre Marriott Hotel & Country Club to relax before your adventure. A huge venue, this 14th century manor is great for groups and is especially popular with golfers.

The wonderful Chepstow Castle’s entrance is guarded by a stone, twintowered gatehouse, which is believed to be the oldest in Britain. As with all Cadw (the

Welsh Government’s historic environment service) sites, groups of 15 or more receive a 10% discount on entry prices.

Individuals and groups spending time in Wales and keen to see a number of historic attractions might consider purchasing Cadw’s three-day or seven-day Explorer Passes. These cover dozens of sites and offer excellent value for money.

From Chepstow, you could work your way along to the charming medieval town of Newport, which is a popular holiday haunt and deservedly so.

Set on an estuary, it’s an easy wade or swim across the river to the golden beach.

Alternatively, you can drive a couple of miles round the nearest bridge and park by the sands.

Newport is surrounded by little coves and picturesque scenery, making it a common starting point for walks along the Wales Coast Path. The Nevern Estuary is also a top place for wildlife spotting and

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There are a number of family friendly activities available along the Wales Coast Path

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LLANBERRIS LAKE RAILWAY FOR GROUPS

Steam Trains in the Heart of Snowdonia • Hour long journey • All trains steam operated* • Superb views of Snowdon • Large free coach park • Easy wheelchair access (up to 5 wheelchair spaces per train) • Excellent Café Facilities • Gift Shop • Frequent Departures • Free Places for Tour Leaders • Free Refreshments for coach drivers • Discounted rates for coach groups

“Discover the timeless appeal of our narrow gauge steam trains”

*Diesels used in emergency only

LLANBERIS LAKE RAILWAY GILFACH DDU LLANBERIS GWYNEDD • LL55 4TY • 01286 870549 sales@lake-railway.co.uk • www.lake-railway.co.uk

R E G I O N A L F O C U S / / WA L E S much of the area is wheelchair accessible.

Cardiff is a fantastic city that really knows how to have fun. Check out a concert at the copper fronted Wales Millennium Centre, browse one of the four regular farmers’ markets, or drink and dine by the water on the gentrified Mermaid Quay and Cardiff Bay. Cardiff Castle is a great attraction for groups and the team there will be happy to create a bespoke tour or experience to suit your visit.

Coaches can drop passengers off right outside the castle and park nearby.

For an extra couple of quid per person, pre-booked groups of 20 or more can also take a guided tour through parts of the 2,000-year-old castle situated off the beaten track. Specialist tours are also available or groups can sign up for an evening of Welsh banqueting. Enjoy mead, a three-course dinner, wine and music from a local harpist playing English and Welsh songs.

However you decide to travel, Swansea is next on the list as you travel along the Welsh coast. This bright waterside city has so much going for it. A visit to Swansea Market – the largest covered market in Wales – is a popular choice with large groups and coach parties. There are over 100 stalls to explore, all of which are under the cover of the iconic glass domed roof, making it a weather-safe option.

Right at the very northern edge of Wales, not far from Liverpool, the Dee Estuary wends its way in from the sea. Attractions in the area include the crumbling battlements of Flint Castle and the Iron Age hill fort on Conwy Mountain

Distinctive waymarkers displaying a white shell with a dragon’s tail clearly mark the length of the route and with the longer, warmer summer days approaching, it’s the perfect time to schedule a group visit to this beautiful part of the UK Anglesey is a beautiful seaside spot, home to the Anglesey Sea Zoo

The National Waterfront Museum is another Cadw destination here in Swansea.

This modern building is packed full of new and interactive interpretations of the area’s maritime history.

The National Waterfront Museum offers free entry for all and pre-booked groups can enjoy 10% off in the café and shop, and complimentary guided tours.

From here, you can wander five minutes into the city centre or explore the promenade.

Further northwards, don’t miss the quirky ambience of Portmeirion.

Famous largely for being the setting of cult 1960s series The Prisoner, this village has a Mediterranean flair and is very welcoming to groups. There’s a coach park just outside the village and free guided tours of the area can be arranged in advance. There’s a fee to enter the village, but groups that pre-book lunch at Castell Deudraeth Brasserie can enter for free. The

village has five other restaurants, several shops and a 55-room hotel.

SEASIDE SPOTS

Right at the very northern edge of Wales, not far from Liverpool, the Dee Estuary wends its way in from the sea. Attractions in the area include the crumbling battlements of Flint Castle and the Iron Age hill fort on Conwy Mountain. There are fantastic RSPB bird watching centres around the estuary with hides, nature trails and on-site cafes. The beautiful sands of Talacre Beach round the headland, marked by the Point of Ayr Lighthouse. Slightly further along the coast lies Kinmel Bay, perennially popular for water sports. Hop across from Bangor to the Isle of Anglesey.

People come here to dive, relax by the beach and explore the area’s industrial heritage. Llynnon Mill was built in 1775 and is the only working windmill in Wales producing stone ground wholemeal

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Cardiff Bay houses the prominent copper fronted Wales Millennium Centre

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R E G I O N A L F O C U S / / WA L E S

The twin beaches of Morfa Harlech and Morfa Dyffryn with their rolling dunes are a definite must see, where public footpaths weave through the protected sand dunes to the shore

WELSH RAILWAY CULTURE Steam train rides are a popular pastime for groups wishing to enjoy the magnificent landscape of Wales, with around 14 scenic railways to choose from. GTW lists a few examples below: l Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway www.festrail.co.uk l Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway www.talyllyn.co.uk l Snowdon Mountain Railway www.snowdonrailway.co.uk Cardiff Castle offers bespoke tours and experiences to suit group visits. ANDREW HAZARD

l Llangollen Railway www.llangollen-railway.co.uk l Welsh Highland Heritage Railway www.whr.co.uk l Vale of Rheidol Railway www.rheidolrailway.co.uk l Fairbourne Railway www.fairbournerailway.com l Gwili Steam Railway www.gwili-railway.co.uk l Brecon Mountain Railway www.breconmountainrailway.co.uk l Welshpool and Llanfair Railway www.wllr.org.uk l Llanberis Lake Railway www.lake-railway.co.uk l Bala Lake Railway www.bala-lake-railway.co.uk

Portmeirion is the famous setting for 1960s cult classic, The Prisoner flour using organic wheat. To the south, the Llyn Peninsula is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Many travel here to spot grey seals, which can be seen in the waters all year round. Pups can usually be seen from September to December. Nearby, the twin beaches of Morfa Harlech and Morfa Dyffryn with their rolling dunes are a definite must see, where public footpaths weave through the protected sand dunes to the shore.

The Pembrokeshire coast is possibly the most beautiful part of the Welsh coast, as it contains the country’s only marine nature reserve. St David’s Head boasts gorgeous views and wildflower meadows.

Call in at tiny St Govan’s Chapel, sitting pretty, tucked into the cliffs at Bosherton.

Pembrokeshire’s offshore islands are packed full of wildlife and puffins are common sightings during the summer.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park now has 70 ‘Easier Access’ routes that cover more than 30 miles of path and they provide beach wheelchairs too.

Literary visitors might like to stop off at the Dylan Thomas Boathouse in Laugharne, the former home of the famous Welsh www.grouptravelworld.com

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writer. Groups receive 10% off entry.

Those more interested in wildlife should call in at the National Wetlands Centre near Llanelli for some amazing wildlife sightings. Groups of 12 or more benefit from reduced admission prices, free coach parking, a welcome pack upon arrival and more.

The Gower Peninsula is another Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – the first in the UK – and is home to award-winning beaches and nature reserves. Aberavon Beach is one of the best.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY DESTINATIONS

Groups travelling with kids and family members with energy to burn will find activities aplenty in Wales.

Try your hand at sea-cliff rock climbing in Gwynedd and Pembrokeshire.

If water sports are more your thing, then the beaches of the Llyn Peninsula offer kite buggies, kite surfing, waterskiing and wakeboarding. Experienced divers can explore the tricky waters of the marine nature reserve around Skomer and beginners can learn the skills they’ll need at the National Diving & Activity Centre

near Chepstow. The Anglesey Sea Zoo is a lovely place to spend time. Children and adults alike will love this all-weather attraction, which showcases over 100 native species of sea creatures. Don’t miss the Lobster Hatchery & Seahorse Nursery.

Llandudno’s St Tudno Hotel offers an afternoon tea inspired by the property’s link to Lewis Carroll’s famous novel, Alice in Wonderland.

Alice Liddell, the inspiration for the book’s heroine, stayed here when visiting the area as a little girl. The hotel is happy to host large groups for their ‘Alice Afternoon Tea.’ Slightly inland from Cardiff is the unusual attraction Wernddu Alpacas, featuring a herd of 17 of these charismatic creatures that children will adore.

The site also supports thriving vineyards and wine is produced from the grapes.

Groups of up to 24 people can pre-book for a guided tour of the vineyard, meet the alpacas and enjoy a wine, perry and cider tasting session. There are often activities run especially for children.

So don’t hang around, Wales is waiting.n SEE PAGES (70) & (72) FOR GTW’S REGULAR ACCOMMODATION FOCUS, DETAILING BUDGET HOSTEL OPTIONS IN WALES AND ABROAD April 2015 l Group Travel World

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During the First World War, Dover was officially designated a fortress and Dover Castle was its military headquarters

English Heritage investing more for history-hungry groups Caring for historic sites spanning six millennia requires investment and English Heritage is embarking on the largest conservation programme in its history. Here is a selection of exciting new projects in the pipeline at some mighty English Heritage castles and atmospheric abbeys.

COMMEMORATING DOVER CASTLE’S COMMANDING WARTIME ROLE During the First World War, Dover was officially designated a fortress and Dover Castle was its military headquarters.

Within the castle, overlooking the Straits of Dover, a Fire Command Post and Port War Signal Station were crucial command centres protecting the harbour and monitoring thousands of naval and merchant ship movements. After work to repair the buildings and recreate the

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interiors, the Fire Command Post and Port War Signal Station reopen from May 2015, aiming to tell the story of their role in Dover’s wartime history.

Outside, an original three-inch 20cwt anti-aircraft gun – one of only three remaining examples in the country – will be positioned in a replica emplacement.

Dover Castle provides a complete introduction to the whole of English history. Other highlights include the underground Second World War Secret

Wartime Tunnels; Henry II’s stunningly colourful Medieval Great Tower, as well as the Roman Lighthouse; the Anglo-Saxon Church of St-Mary-in-Castro; Battlements Walks and the spooky Medieval Underground Works.

Dover Castle, Dover, Kent CT16 1HU Telephone: 01304 211067 Email: dover.castle@english-heritage.org.uk www.english-heritage.org.uk/dovercastle

FORTRESS FALMOUTH REMEMBERED AT PENDENNIS CASTLE During the outbreak of war in 1914, the sleepy town of Falmouth went into high alert. Its strategic location meant it was designated a defended port and Pendennis Castle became its military headquarters. A new exhibition at Pendennis Castle describes the impact of war on the civilian and military population living within Fortress Falmouth, using first-hand accounts to draw a picture of the deprivations they suffered as food shortages and the loss of loved ones took their toll. They include letters from Battery

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Sergeant Major John Glasson Thomas to Gertrude Brooks. Nicknamed ‘Tommy,’ he instructed troops to use heavy guns at Pendennis Castle before being posted to France, where he died of shrapnel wounds in 1917.

Gertrude treasured his letters until her death in 1960. The exhibition makes Pendennis Castle a full day excursion for group visits, with more to discover on the castle’s roles in both the First World War and Second World War, as well as its roots dating back to Tudor times.

Artist impression showing the new look visitor facilities at Tintagel Castle Pendennis Castle, Castle Close, Falmouth, Cornwall TR11 4LP Telephone: 01326 316594 Email: pendennis.castle@english-heritage.org.uk www.english-heritage.org.uk/pendennis

understanding of the landscape on which the battle was fought. Battle Abbey has a visitor centre, which features a café and interactive exhibition that brings to life the story of the Norman Conquest.

IMPROVEMENTS AHEAD FOR TINTAGEL CASTLE

1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey & Battlefield, Battle, East Sussex TN33 0AD Telephone: 01424 775705 www.english-heritage.org.uk/battleabbey

Nearly 200,000 people per year, many travelling from overseas and arriving by coach, visit Tintagel Castle that clings to the cliffs on the dramatic north Cornish coast, drawn by Tintagel’s connections to

KENILWORTH CASTLE’S VIEW TO WOO Take a peak at Pendennis Castle’s new exhibition

Commanding view out to sea from the Great Tower at Dover Castle

the legend of King Arthur. From Summer 2015, alongside the awe-inspiring setting and legendary history, visitors to Tintagel Castle will also be able to enjoy improved visitor facilities. The café seats 48 inside with a further 40 on the outdoor terrace, and will be fully accessible (café closed until July 2015). A new interpretation will delve deeper into the development of the Arthurian legends and the castle’s role in Cornish history.

Tintagel Castle, Castle Road, Tintagel, Cornwall PL34 0HE Telephone: 01840 770328 Email: tintagel.castle@english-heritage.org.uk www.english-heritage.org.uk/tintagel

NEW INSIGHTS INTO THE BATTLE OF HASTINGS At the iconic 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey & Battlefield in East Sussex, plans are afoot to improve the presentation of the most famous battle fought on English soil, alongside the abbey and great house that were later built on the site. New insights on the battle provide an exciting opportunity to re-tell the story of the battlefield and William the Conqueror’s abbey, built on the exact spot where King Harold died.

For 2016 an exhibition is scheduled to tell the story of the abbey and the town outside its gates, incorporating artefacts never before displayed. For the first time, visitors will be able to enjoy the magnificent view from the roof, looking over the town of battle and gain a better www.grouptravelworld.com

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Located in a beautiful setting, Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden is amongst the most romantic castles in the land, with its lovely sandstone walls, tower and turrets standing testament to its medieval and Tudor glory days when it was understandably a royal favourite.

In July 1575, Robert Dudley Earl of Leicester entertained Queen Elizabeth I at Kenilworth Castle for 19 days, building a towering gatehouse in preparation for her arrival, creating an amazing garden for her pleasure and lavish entertainments for her amusement.

Today, thanks to the introduction of a series of viewing platforms within the ruined, four-storey tower known as Leicester’s Building, the castle is offering group visitors the same ‘heady’ panoramas enjoyed by Queen Elizabeth I when she visited. Groups can get a double dose of Dudley’s flamboyance in the beautifully recreated Elizabethan Garden, which features great arbours, a terrace, fountain, obelisks and a 30foot long aviary, complete with birds.

Kenilworth Castle, Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 1NG Telephone: 01926 857482 Email: kenilworth.castle@english-heritage.org.uk www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenilworth

GREAT GROUP DISCOUNTS Groups of 11 or more people receive a 15% discount at English Heritage properties (10% at Stonehenge). A tour leader and coach driver are admitted free with each group. Free familiarisation visits can be arranged for the travel trade. To discuss opportunities for group visits email the individual properties or traveltrade@english-heritage.org.uk April 2015 ● Group Travel World

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Fonmon Castle & Gardens

800 years of history and stunning Georgian interiors – just 25 minutes from Cardiff and M4

Open year round for pre-booked tour groups: • Exclusive group Castle tours with experienced tour guide • Delicious home cooked teas served in the beautiful Rococo library • Visitors free to wander and explore the delightful gardens parking drivers receive complimentary refreshments • Ample free on-site parking,

Pay for 15 at group rate and get one place free, Quote: GTW-1

What’s On 2015

Arundel Castle has been transformed into a magnificent stately home and hosts a number of historic events throughout the year. JULIA CLAXTON

C A S T L E S , A B B E Y S & C AT H E D R A L S

Welsh

and

ings, knights and monks have certainly left their mark on the British architectural landscape.

Everywhere you look, there are examples of their power and piety. Often romantic and dramatic, yet always occupying a dominant position in town or country, these buildings attract millions of visitors every year.

To celebrate the history and individual characters of the sites, numerous special events are held every year including re-enactments, flower festivals, plays and children’s festivals. For group travel organisers, castles, abbeys and cathedrals provide considerable tour potential as single site visits or as part of a wider tour.

Ever since the Norman Conquest in 1066, imposing castles have been constructed to exert control over the population, with royal castles such as the Tower of London and Windsor Castle becoming emblems of power and majesty. Over the years, castle design has undergone considerable www.grouptravelworld.com

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Groups are spoilt for choice when it comes to heritage attractions in England. Angela Youngman provides a well-informed glance at some of the most significant historical attractions that commemorate the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215 change, from the simple motte-and-bailey seen at Stansted Mountfitchet Castle in Essex to the great concentric castles of Wales where Edward I built his ‘iron ring’ of fortresses; each more complex than the last. Perched high above the sea at Harlech, this castle seems to rise out of a vertical cliff face. The height and strength of the walls appear almost untouched by time as they still stand more or less their full height, and access has recently been made easier, as a new gateway and bridge has been installed.

Conwy is a classically walled town, with

22 towers guarding walls that are over three quarters of a mile long, accompanied by another eight huge towers marking the castle itself. It is an imposing site set against the stunning skyline of Snowdonia.

Just a little further down the coast is Caernarfon, the most famous castle built

by Edward I. This acted as his stronghold, a royal palace and a seat of government.

The unique polygonal towers situated at the mouth of the River Seiont, together with the lofty walks, create an impression of immense strength. In Anglesey, Beaumaris Castle is positively awesome.

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C A S T L E S , A B B E Y S & C AT H E D R A L S

Rochester Castle boasts strong links to King John and the Magna Carta. LUKE ROGERS

The castle is partially surrounded by a water-filled moat and has four concentric lines of fortifications located inside each other. Beaumaris would have been an attackers’ nightmare, due to the 14 major obstacles that had to be overcome before entering the final part of the castle, including walls full of arrow slits and murder holes. South Wales too has its own fortress strongholds, such as Pembroke and Cilgarren, both of which were owned by the Earl of Pembroke, one of the key participants in the saga surrounding King John and the Magna Carta. Some castles have assumed legendary status. Tintagel in Cornwall is forever linked to the tales of King Arthur’s birth, with subsequent activities based on the Knights of the Round Table.

The role of castles was not confined to the medieval period. Many saw action in the 17th century civil war, while Dover Castle’s maze of tunnels were used in the Second World War during the evacuation of Dunkirk.

Dover is the largest castle in England, featuring fortifications dating back to Roman times. One of its most unusual features is its underground Napoleonic barracks.

Many castles continue to have a prominent ceremonial function.

Edinburgh Castle is home to such events as the Edinburgh Tattoo, which attracts thousands of visitors annually, while Windsor Castle remains the home of Her Majesty The Queen.

Kenilworth, Ludlow and Middleham are among the many castles that currently lie in ruins, while others have been transformed into stately homes, such

Beaumaris would have been an attackers’ nightmare, due to the 14 major obstacles that had to be overcome before entering the final part of the castle

Powderham Castle offers private group tours involving secret doors and haunted landings. HEART OF DEVON 28

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as Arundel in Sussex, which houses the personal possessions of Mary Queen of Scots. In Northumberland, Alnwick Castle became the setting of Harry Potter’s Hogwarts, home to the famous scene where Harry learns to fly a broomstick.

More recently, it was used as a film location for ITV’s Downton Abbey.

The great walled garden at Alnwick is another irresistible attraction as it contains beautiful water gardens, floral borders and an unusual Poison garden. Castles were still being built in Victorian times.

Balmoral Castle is a spectacular example of Scots Baronial architecture, created by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.

In many areas, cathedrals and castles stand side by side. Those typically included are Norwich, Durham and Lincoln.

Norwich is home to two cathedrals, a medieval Anglican cathedral and a Victorian-style gothic building containing thousands of fossils in its walls and floors.

At the apex of the triangle between these

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C A S T L E S , A B B E Y S & C AT H E D R A L S

From April 2015, a special joint ticket will be available combining entry to Lincoln Cathedral and the newly renovated Lincoln Castle, where an original copy of the Magna Carta will be sealed in a brand new, purpose built vault two cathedrals is the Norman castle, built high on a mound above the town, providing spectacular views from its ramparts and interesting tales of its former role as a prison.

Despite its links to Robin Hood and King John, Nottingham Castle harbours an unusual attraction for visitors through its collection of sandstone caves. Guided tours transport visitors from the top of the castle mound, through a network of passages to street level.

Fascinating and sometimes gruesome tales are told along the way, with Nottingham Castle the former prison of King David of Scotland and the Earl of Mortimer, in addition to boasting the legendary route for Robin Hood’s many excursions.

With 2015 celebrating the 800th anniversary of the signing of the Magna Carta, there are special commemorative events scheduled at cathedrals, castles and abbeys throughout the UK. Durham, Lincoln, Salisbury and Hereford all have original copies displayed, together with exhibitions detailing its rich history.

From April 2015, a special joint ticket will be available combining entry to Lincoln Cathedral and the newly renovated Lincoln Castle, where an original copy of the Magna Carta will be sealed in a brand new, purpose built vault. Alternatively at Salisbury, an eight-month long programme will explore different aspects of the Magna Carta, including a flower festival with giant panels depicting each of the barons present at the signing. Other displays aim to reflect the chaos before the signing and the peace that should have come as a

result. Group bookings are already being taken, as it’s set to become one of the most stunning events of the year.

Unfortunately, there was little peace following the signing of the document and King John subsequently laid siege to numerous castles, such as Rochester in Kent and Framlingham in Suffolk. The 1215 siege at Rochester will be re-enacted this summer, though will not have quite the same impact as King John succeeding in breaching a corner of the Keep and causing it to collapse. The enthusiasm of the re-enactors will undoubtedly attract large crowds to the spectacular event.

The story of King John came to an end at Worcester Cathedral, where he remains buried. Further east, another English king was recently re-interred at Leicester Cathedral. The simple white tomb marks the final resting place of Richard III, England’s last warrior king. His original grave was unearthed in a council car park during an archaeological excavation, not far from where he currently lies.

The dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII resulted in a chequered history for the hundreds of abbeys scattered around the UK. Many became cathedrals and churches or were left to decay, becoming romantic ruins like Tintern in Wales and Riveaux in Yorkshire.

Special events are often held, such as the re-enactments of the Battle of Hastings, which take place close to the Battle Abbey every year.

Other abbeys were transformed into great houses and stately homes. Stoneleigh Abbey in Warwickshire boasts fascinating links to both Jane Austen and Queen

Woburn Abbey is a historic house, as well as a safari park

Statue of Robin Hood outside Nottingham Castle. DIANA JARVIS Victoria, and Woburn Abbey has become a historic house as well as a safari park.

Woburn Abbey was a Cistercian monastery from 1145, but was later dissolved by Henry VIII in 1538, when it is said that the last Abbot was hung from a tree in the park for treason. Woburn Abbey became a permanent home in 1619, occupied by the 4th Earl and his family. The original monastic buildings were sadly destroyed in a major rebuilding project towards the mid-18th century. Medieval pilgrims travelled miles to visit sites such as Walsingham in Norfolk - a tradition that still continues. Each year, thousands of pilgrims flock to the ruined abbey to worship at the Anglican or Roman Catholic shrines. Walsingham is also a popular group tour destination, located en route to the North Norfolk coast, alongside Holkham Hall and Sandringham.

Lindisfarne Priory on the Northumberland coast is ideal for tour groups seeking to discover its timeless beauty and heritage. With pleasant walks around the harbour, a ruined abbey with wonderful architecture, a small castle and good shopping, Lindisfarne has much to offer, but beware of tide times. At high tide, Lindisfarne becomes an island surrounded by the North Sea. Over Christmas, tourism opportunities continue.

The long established Lincoln Christmas Market held outside the cathedral is extremely popular, combined with many others including Winchester, Exeter and St Albans. Group travel organisers can take advantage of special facilities and discounts to make visits even more attractive, such as Powderham Castle and its private tours involving secret doors and haunted landings.

Such sites often offer a multitude of facilities, thus providing ideal venues for group visits. Tour an abbey, then a safari park; explore a castle and learn about falconry; visit a cathedral and discover hidden political secrets, historic documents and pilgrim routes. Castles, abbeys and cathedrals may have their roots in the past, but they are still vibrantly alive and are popular tourist destinations. ■ April 2015 ● Group Travel World

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London News is brought to you by London & Partners, the official promotional organisation for London. For more information go to visitlondon.com/travel-trade

LO N D O N N E W S Patricia Mediavilla, Leisure Marketing Executive

Discover London’s River Thames

H

aving recently been awarded Best City Destination For Groups at the European Group Travel Awards, there’s really never been a better time to bring your groups to London.

This month, we explore the very heart of the city; the River Thames.

Known for icons such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and Tower Bridge, the River Thames is becoming more and more popular, with record passenger numbers using transport services, new piers opening at Battersea Power Station and plenty of events celebrating the diversity of its banks. Find out more about what’s happening along the River Thames and start

planning your group visit at visitlondon.com/travel-trade

Totally Thames

Taking place throughout September 2015, Totally Thames is a festival that will see over a hundred arts, cultural and river events hosted alongside the 42-mile stretch of river.

Explore The River By Boat

Jumping aboard one of the many boats that operate along the river is one of the best ways to explore the Thames.

There are a variety of river tours available to suit all tastes, including sightseeing trips with commentaries, themed cruises and dining experiences.

City Cruises offers a range of services, leaving every

The iconic River Thames. PAWEL LIBERA

Discover Richmond. JOANNA HENDERSON

30 minutes daily, as well as offering private hire for groups and experiences including afternoon tea cruises and Thames Jazz.

If you are looking for gorgeous views and delicious food, a river dining experience might be your thing. Bateaux London runs scheduled dining cruises on the River Thames year round; offering fresh food, live entertainment and spectacular city sights.

Discovery Richmond

For history fans, Discovery Richmond has recently announced a new programme of river tours in the beautiful borough of Richmond.

Take a river-linked sightseeing tour combining shorter guided walks, with a river cruise along the

greenest and most picturesque stretches of the River Thames in London, or start with a guided stroll around Richmond and then take the boat to magnificent Hampton Court Palace, or the historic Royal Borough of Kingstonupon-Thames.

Glide Across The Thames On The Emirates Air Line Pick up the Thames Clipper (RB1) to North Greenwich, then fly over the River Thames on the Emirates Air Line - the UK’s first urban cable car located in East London. Take in impressive views of the O2 Arena and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, as you ascend up to 90 metres across the river. Use your Visitor Oyster Card and receive a discounted fare. ■

KEEP IN CONTACT WITH US!

Travel Trade Newsletter Going out once a month and featuring the latest news and information from London for the travel trade, the newsletter is delivered to key travel trade contacts across the globe. Sign up now at visitlondon.com/travel-trade

Follow us on LinkedIn Our LinkedIn group, ‘London & Partners – Travel Trade’ is constantly growing. Join us for up to the minute news and discussion with your peers in the travel trade.

Travel Trade Website Our travel trade website is designed to help you sell London to your clients, check it out now! visitlondon.com/travel-trade

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www.grouptravelworld.com

25/03/2015 16:14

Theatre BRICK LANE MUSIC HALL The home of British Music Hall

Come and see what’s in store at “Britain’s Friendliest Venue” traditional Music Hall shows - and much, much more.

Evening shows include three course dinner and dancing. Lunchtime shows include a three course lunch.

Matinees include full afternoon tea. Delicious food. Great entertainment. Unbeatable value.

www.bricklanemusichall.co.uk 020 7511 6655

Free gated parking for cars and coaches. Drop-off at entrance. Disabled access. All special diets catered for.

Voted “Britain’s Friendliest Venue” by UK Coach Companies.

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T H E AT R E // N E W S

Sell-Out Ballet Sleeping Beauty Goes On Tour The magical story of Sleeping Beauty is retold through ballet masterwork.

SIMON ANNAND

Matthew Bourne’s haunting take on Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty launches its UK tour in Autumn 2015

eight-week Christmas season at Sadler’s Wells from Tuesday, December 1 to Saturday, January 24, 2016.

Bourne’s re-imagining of the classic tale sees the traditional story of good versus evil turned upside down, as he mimics a supernatural love story. Full casting for the UK tour is yet to be announced, though tour dates are already available, giving group travel organisers the chance to plan ahead.

The production has already smashed box office records across the UK, while its US premiere in 2013 prompted The New York Times to say

Director and Choreographer Matthew Bourne’s haunting take on Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty opened to rave reviews when it premiered in 2012, completing his trio of reimagined Tchaikovsky ballet masterworks that commenced in 1992 with Nutcracker.

An extensive national tour of the ballet has now been announced, opening at the Theatre Royal Plymouth on Saturday, October 17, with an

‘This is Bourne at his best – a masterful storyteller’.

The production also won three Los Angeles Drama Critic Awards and the Ovation Award for Best Production.

“The unprecedented success of Sleeping Beauty took us all by surprise in 2012, becoming our most popular production,” says Matthew.

“For me, it is one of New Adventures’ finest achievements and the piece of which I am most proud. I’m delighted that New Adventures will be waking up the Princess Aurora after only three years – 100 years seemed just too long to wait.”

A TIMELESS TALE RETOLD Tchaikovsky and choreographer Marius Petipa adapted Perrault’s timeless fairytale about a young girl cursed to sleep for 100 years into a legendary ballet in 1890.

In his latest production, Matthew Bourne sets the christening of Aurora - the story’s heroine – in the same year as the ballet’s first performance set during the height of the Fin-de-Siecle period when fairies, vampires and decadent opulence fed the gothic imagination. As Aurora grows into a young woman, the story moves forward in time to the more rigid, uptight Edwardian era; a mythical golden age of long summer afternoons, croquet on the lawn and new dance crazes.

Years later, awakening from her century-long slumber, Aurora finds herself in the modern day – a world more mysterious than any fairy story.

The production’s 2015 dates commence at the Theatre Royal Plymouth from October 17-24 (www.theatreroyal.com).

For more information, ticket details and information on 2016 dates visit newadventures.net/sleeping-beauty SEE FULL TOUR LISTING FOR SLEEPING BEAUTY ON PAGES (42) & (43)

Book Now For Panto Season 2015 Looking ahead to the festive season, Hackney Empire has announced it will be showing Jack and the Beanstalk as its 2015 Christmas pantomime.

The production will be written and directed by Susie McKenna and composed by Steven Edis, making Jack and the Beanstalk the pair’s 17th pantomime produced for the Empire.

Last year’s production of Mother Goose starred Clive 34

Rowe and marked the theatre’s best-selling pantomime to date; seen by over 50,000 people from all over London.

Set in the kingdom of Hackneydale, Hackney Empire’s production follows the story of young Jack, who is tempted by a mysterious stranger into swapping the family’s trusty old cow for a handful of magic beans.

Surely an offer happy-golucky Jack can’t refuse?

Group Travel World l April 2015

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Tickets are now on sale and casting is to be announced later in the year.

Jack and the Beanstalk will run from Saturday, November 21 until Sunday, January 3, 2016. Tickets cost from £10, with concessions available for groups of 10 plus and a special discount available for tickets bought before September 30.

For more information call the box office on 020 8985 2424 or visit www.hackneyempire.co.uk www.grouptravelworld.com

26/03/2015 09:33

Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ grouptravelworld

Olivier Award Nominees Announced Nominees for the 2015 Olivier Awards – in association with MasterCard – have been announced, including Mark Strong for A View From The Bridge and Richard Armitage for The Crucible in the ‘Best Actor’ category. For a full list visit www.olivierawards. com. It has been revealed that acclaimed actor and comedian Lenny Henry will present the 39th Olivier Awards ceremony, which is scheduled to take place at the Royal Opera House on April 12, 2015. Turn to page (36) for GTW’s review of Women On The Verge Of A Nervous Breakdown, which sees Haydn Gwynne nominated for ‘Best Actress In A Supporting Role In A Musical.’

Billy Elliot Turns 10 Billy Elliot has been dazzling theatregoers at the Victoria Palace Theatre in London since 2005, with 2015 marking the production’s 10th anniversary.

Billy Elliot consists of an award-winning creative team, including writer Lee Hall, director Stephen Daldry, choreographer Peter Darling and Elton John who composed the show’s score.

Billy Elliot is set against the backdrop of the 1984/’85 miners’ strike. Billy’s journey in particular sees him enrol in a ballet class, where he discovers his life-changing passion for dance. Cast members include Brodie Donougher, Ollie Jochim, Bradley Perret and Matteo Zecca who alternate the title role, with Thomas Hazelby the 40th boy to play Billy in the London production.

Additional cast members include Ruthie Henshall as Mrs Wilkinson, Deka Walmsley as Billy’s Dad, Chris Grahamson as Tony and Gillian Elisa as Grandma. Billy Elliot is currently booking to December 19, 2015. For more information visit www.billyelliotthemusical. com. www.grouptravelworld.com

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Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @GTWMagazine

Join our Linkedin group Group Travel World Magazine

Willy Wonka Star Named Shakespearean actor Jonathan Slinger will play Willy Wonka in the sell-out West End production of Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

Slinger’s first performance will be on Monday, May 4, when he takes over from Alex Jennings. Charlie & The Chocolate Factory has become one of the West End’s most successful productions, breaking multiple records at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, where it has already been seen by more than 1.25million people since its opening in June 2013. It’s currently taking bookings until June 4, 2016.

With a stage career spanning two decades, Jonathan has cemented his position among the foremost Shakespearean

Jonathan Slinger will take over the role of Willy Wonka in May 2015 actors, including appearances with the Royal Shakespeare Company in recent productions of Hamlet, Macbeth, Richard II and Richard III. To find out more about

Circus And Cabaret On The Streets Of London Scotch & Soda will bring its raucous, world-class mix of circus, cabaret dance and original music to London.

From May 14 until August 2, London Wonderground’s Spiegeltent will host the spectacle; featuring gravitydefying circus acts from some of Australia’s finest acrobats

as part of Southbank Centre’s Festival of Love.

London Wonderground offers a slice of circus in the centre of London, featuring the best circus and cabaret acts from around the world. “We created these festivals with the very clear ambition of wanting to give

Charlie & The Chocolate Factory - including details of group ticket discounts - call the box office on 0844 858 8877 or visit www.charlie andthechocolatefactory.com

Londoners an affordable and eclectic mix of fabulous live entertainment, but within a true festival environment in the very heart of London,” say organisers Ed Bartlam and Charlie Wood of Underbelly.

Tickets cost from £12.50 and the show is suitable for ages 12 plus.

To find out more and to book group tickets call 0844 545 8282 or visit www. londonwonderground.co.uk or www.southbankcentre. co.uk

Scotch & Soda brings its circus and cabaret acts to London from May 2015

April 2015 l Group Travel World

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T H E AT R E / / R E V I E W

WOMEN ON THE VERGE OF A NERVOUS BREAKDOWN THE MUSICAL

S

ince opening on January 12, 2015, Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown has won over West End audiences, recently announcing an extended booking period to August 22, 2015. Performed at the Playhouse Theatre, Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown was initially scheduled a 20-week limited run until May 9, 2015.

Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown sees acclaimed actor Tamsin Greig make her successful theatre debut and she has since, unsurprisingly, been nominated for an Olivier Award for ‘Best Actress in a Musical,’ which speaks volumes for her musical talent.

Haydn Gwynne has been nominated for ‘Best Supporting Actress in a Musical,’ celebrated for her passionate performance as Lucia.

The bohemian-style Playhouse Theatre is the ideal venue for such a retro production, with Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown set in heavily romanticised 1980s Madrid, highlighted by an exterior spectrum of colours opposing pretty panoramic views of the embankment.

Playhouse Theatre has been recently refurbished, with a fresh and vibrant character omitted through black and white sheen tile flooring.

Playhouse Theatre sells the usual consumer fare including Women on the Verge branded stress balls, which provides a nice personal touch.

Derivative of the 1988 Oscar-winning film by Pedro Almodóvar, Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown has been mostly penned by men, based on the book by Jeffrey Lane (Dirty Rotten Scoundrels), adapted to the stage with music and lyrics by David Yazbeck and directed by

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Barlett Sher.

Live music is provided from the second tier, with cast member Ricardo Alfonso providing strong acoustic commentary throughout, omitting a typically Spanish vibe that nags at your need for a holiday. GTW’s favoured score was ‘model behaviour’ performed by the overbearing and needy model friend Candela, played by the endearing Anna Skellern.

Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown features 14 musical numbers in total.

Scene transitions are cleverly displayed via a rotational chalkboard frequently moved

by Perry Lambert, who is often amusingly dressed as a bullfighting matador.

Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown consists of a particularly intimate ensemble with some key cast members doubling up, including the role of bolshie lawyer Paulina who was well played by Holly James. Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown translates well onto the stage, with a female dominant cast that depicts three generations in crisis.

Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown isn’t your standard musical and admittedly, could benefit without additional tuneful elements, which are exclusive to the production and are thus used as a key way to express emotion. Tamsin Greig especially brings a unique air of seriousness with a subtle sense of comedic charm. At points, the set impressively opens out the reveal a sunset laden balcony, with most special effects credited to the intricate use of mood lighting.

Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown certainly wasn’t a chore to enjoy, with GTW leaving the theatre with a chirpy sense of optimism. ■

Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown is scheduled to run at the Playhouse Theatre until August 2015.

Discounted rates are available for parties of 6+ and 8+ valid for Monday to Thursday performances.

Senior group rates are available for parties of 8+ with best available seats priced around £30.

Premium group rates are available at a cost of £52.50 per person. To book call the Group Booking Line on 0844 871 7644.

For more information visit www. womenonthevergemusical.com

Live music is provided from the second tier, with cast member Ricardo Alfonso providing strong acoustic commentary throughout, omitting a typically Spanish vibe that nags at your need for a holiday.

Tamsin Greig makes her theatre debut as troubled Pepa Marcos. JOHAN PERSSON

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T H E AT R E L I S T I N G S / / L O N D O N

Theatre Listings lists the major UK shows currently open, or about to open, in the West End and beyond. Always check the details before making any arrangements.

LONDON

Prince of Wales

Criterion Theatre Piccadilly Circus W1

THE 39 STEPS

Booking to: October 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 2000hrs, Weds 1500hrs & Sat 1600hrs Length: 2hrs Booking Codes: AM GL SE TM Wyndham’s Theatre

Booking to: June 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930, Wed & Sat 1430 Length: 2hrs 20mins Booking Codes: AM AP EN GL TM Aldwych

Booking to: June 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930 Length: TBC (opens April 2015) Booking Codes: GL SE TM

Aldwych WC2

BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL

London WC2

AMERICAN BUFFALO

Coventry Street W1

THE BOOK OF MORMON

Booking to: February 2016 Times: Mon-Sat 1930 Length: 2hrs 30mins Booking Codes: AM GL SE TM Theatre Royal

Apollo Theatre

THE AUDIENCE

Booking to: July 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930 Length: TBC (opens May 2015) Booking Codes: AM GL SE TM

Booking to: June 2016 Times: Mon-Sat 1930, Thu & Sat 1500 Length: 2hrs 30mins Booking Codes: AM AP EN GL SE TM

Phoenix Theatre

Palace

London WC2

BEND IT LIKE BECKHAM

Booking to: October 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930 Length: TBC (opens June 2015) Booking Codes: AM GL SE TM

THE COMMITMENTS

London Palladium Argyll Street W1A

BEYOND BOLLYWOOD

Booking to: June 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930hrs, Wed & Sat 1430hrs Length: TBC (opens May 2015) Booking Codes: AM GL SE TM Victoria Palace

Shaftesbury Avenue W1D

THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME

Booking to: October 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930, Thu & Sat 1430 Length: 2hrs 45 mins Booking Codes: EN GL SE TM

Victoria Street SW1

BILLY ELLIOT – THE MUSICAL

Booking to: December 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930, Thu & Sat 1430 Length: 3hrs Booking Codes: AP EN GL SE TM 38

Gielgud

Dominion Theatre

London W1

ELF THE MUSICAL

Booking to: January 2016 Times: Mon-Sat 1930, Wed & Sat 1430 Length: 2hrs 25mins (opens Nov 2015) Booking Codes: GL SE TM

l April 2015

038_039_GTW_April15 Theatre Listings_West End.indd 38

London WC2

Adelphi Theatre

Strand WC2

KINKY BOOTS

Booking to: November 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930, Wed & Sat 1430 Length: TBC (opens September 2015) Booking Codes: GL SE TM

Duke of York’s

Queens

London WC2

HAY FEVER

Shaftesbury Avenue W1

LES MISERABLES

Booking to: August 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930hrs, Thu & Sat 1500hrs Length: TBC (opens May 2015) Booking Codes: AM GL SE TM

Booking to: September 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930, Wed & Sat 1430 Length: 3hrs Booking Codes: AP EN GL SE TM

Old Vic Theatre

Garrick Theatre

London SE1

HIGH SOCIETY

Shaftesbury Avenue W1

Booking to: September 2015 Times: Tue-Fri 1930, Sat & Sun 1500 & 1900 Length: 2hrs 30mins Booking Codes: AP EN GL SE TM

GYPSY

Booking to: July 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930, Wed & Sat 1430 Length: 2hrs 50mins Booking Codes: AM GL SE TM

Drury Lane WC2

CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY

London W1D

Savoy Theatre

LET IT BE

London WC2

Booking to: August 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930, Wed & Sat 1430 Length: TBC (opens May 2015) Booking Codes: AM GL SE TM

Booking to: September 2015 Times: Wed-Sat 1930 & Sun 1900 Length: 2hrs 15mins Booking Codes: AM GL SE TM

Vaudeville

Lyceum

The Strand WC2

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

Catherine Street WC2

THE LION KING

Booking to: November 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930hrs, Wed & Sat 1430hrs Length: TBC (opens July 2015) Booking Codes: AM GL SE TM

Booking to: October 2015 Times: Tue-Sat 1930, Weds, Sat & Sun 1430 Length: 2hrs 45mins Booking Codes: AM AP DY EN GL SE TM

Piccadilly

Dominion Theatre

Denmark Street W1

JERSEY BOYS

Booking to: October 2015 Times: Tue-Sat 1930, Tue & Sat 1500, Sun 1700 Length: 2hrs 35 mins Booking Codes: AM AP EN GL SE TM

London W1

LORD OF THE DANCE – DANGEROUS GAMES

Booking to: September 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930hrs, Sat 1430hrs Length: 2hrs 10mins Booking Codes: AM GL SE TM www.grouptravelworld.com

25/03/2015 15:50

The 39 Steps will be performed at the Criterion Theatre until October 2015

See Thriller Live at the Lyric Theatre. IRINA CHIRA

Novello

Aldwych WC2

MAMMA MIA!

Booking to: October 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1945, Thu & Sat 1500 Length: 2hrs 30mins Booking Codes: AP EN GL SE TM Cambridge

St Martin’s

West Street WC2

THE MOUSETRAP

Ambassadors

West Street WC2

STOMP

Booking to: December 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930, Tue 1500, Sat 1600 Length: 2hrs 15mins Booking Codes: AP EN GL SE TM

Booking to: December 2015 Times: Mon-Fri 2000hrs, Thu & Sat 1500 & 2000, Sun 1500 & 1800 Length: 1hr 40mins Booking Codes: AM AP GL TM

Her Majesty’s

Harold Pinter

Haymarket SW1

PHANTOM OF THE OPERA

London SW1

SUNNY AFTERNOON

Wilton Road SW1

WICKED

Booking to: April 2016 Times: Mon-Sat 1930, Wed & Sat 1430 Length: 2hrs 50mins Booking Codes: AM AP EN GL SE TM Fortune

Earlham Street WC2

MATILDA THE MUSICAL

Apollo Victoria

Russell Street WC2

THE WOMAN IN BLACK

Booking to: December 2015 Times: Tue 1900, Wed-Sat 1930, Wed & Sat 1430, Sun 1500 Length: 2hrs 40mins Booking Codes: AP DM EN GL SE TM

Booking to: September 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930, Thu & Sat 1430 Length: 2hrs 30mins Booking Codes: AP EN GL SE TM

Booking to: October 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930 Length: 2hrs 20mins Booking Codes: AM EN GL SE TM

Booking to: January 2016 Times: Tue-Sat 2000, Tue & Thu 1500, Sat 1600 Length: 2hrs Booking Codes: AM AP EN GL SE TM

Shaftesbury

Duchess

Lyric

Playhouse Northumberland Ave WC2

Shaftesbury Ave WC2

MEMPHIS THE MUSICAL

Catherine St WC2

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG

Shaftesbury Avenue WC2

THRILLER LIVE

Booking to: October 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930, Wed & Sat 1430 Length: 2hrs 30mins Booking Codes: AM AP EN GL SE TM

Booking to: September 2015 Times: Wed-Sat 1930, Thu & Sat 1430, Sun 1500 & 1900 Length: 2hrs 05mins Booking Codes: EN GL SE TM

Booking to: April 2016 Times: Tue-Fri 1930, Sat 1600 & 2000, Sun 1530 & 1930 Length: 2hrs 30mins Booking Codes: AP EN GL SE TM

Wyndham’s Theatre

Noel Coward

Barbican

London WC2

THE MENTALISTS

Booking to: September 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1945, Wed & Sat 1500 Length: TBC (opens July 2015) Booking Codes: GL SE Prince Edward

St Martin’s Lane WC2

SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE

Booking to: June 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930, Wed & Sat 1430 Length: 2hrs 40mins Booking Codes: AM DY EN GL SE TM

Booking to: December 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930, Thu & Sat 1430 Length: 2hrs 40mins Booking Codes: AP EN GL SE TM www.grouptravelworld.com

038_039_GTW_April15 Theatre Listings_West End.indd 39

London Palladium

SINATRA

London W1

Booking to: October 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930, Wed & Sat 1400 Length: TBC (opens July 2015) Booking Codes: GL

Booking to: August 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930 Length: 2hrs 40mins Booking Codes: AM EN GL SE TM

Silk Street EC2

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD

Booking to: July 2015 Times: Mon-Sat 1930 Length: TBC (opens July 2015) Booking Codes: AM GL TM New London

Old Compton St W1

MISS SAIGON

WOMEN ON THE VERGE OF A NERVOUS BREAKDOWN

Drury Lane WC2

WAR HORSE

Booking to: February 2016 Times: Mon 1930, Tue 1900, Wed-Sat 1930, Thu & Sat 1430 Length: 2hrs 40mins Booking Codes: AP EN GL SE TM

KEY TO BOOKING CODES AM Ambassador Groups AP Applause Groups DY Disney Theatrical TM Ticketmaster Groups

GL Groupline SE SEE Groups EN Encore Tickets

When booking, please mention

April 2015 ●

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T H E AT R E / / I N T E R V I E W

interview:

SEE GTW’s REVIEW OF SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE ONLINE:

EVE PONSONBY

www.grouptravelworld. com/shakespeare-in-lovecompare-thee-to-a-comedy

Amy Moore speaks to Eve Ponsonby, who plays Viola De Lesseps in SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE at the Noel Coward Theatre

P

erformed at the Noel Coward Theatre, the world premiere production of Shakespeare in Love has one of the largest West End casts to date, comprising of 28 talented actors and accompanying musicians who bring the story to life on stage.

Eve Ponsonby replaces Lucy Briggs-Owen as the endearing Viola De Lesseps, alongside Orlando James who replaces Tom Bateman as William Shakespeare.

Eve recently performed opposite Orlando in Cheek by Jowls’ ‘Tis Pity She’s A Whore at the Barbican Theatre and during its international tour.

Additional theatre credits include The Fall at Theatre 503, If Only at the Chichester Festival Theatre and Longing at the Hampstead Theatre, among others.

Eve also starred as Ophelia in Ali DeSouza’s production of Hamlet at the Sam Wanamaker

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Festival and Shakespeare’s Globe. Television credits include BBC’s Lady Chatterley’s Lover and The White Queen, in addition to Channel 4’s Misfits.

What was it like to take over from the original cast?

It was great. I’d worked with Declan Donnellan (director of Shakespeare in Love) previously, so I already knew his style. I’d also seen the original cast’s dress rehearsal way back when, with no idea that I was ever going to be auditioning.

How does the role of Viola De Lesseps compare to other characters you’ve played?

She pretends to be a boy, which I’ve never done before.

She’s a great part to play.

There aren’t many roles in theatre nowadays that have such central, strong and ambitious parts for a girl, because she is quite young.

I think I’d find it quite hard

to not bring some of my personality to the role.

I was very much a tomboy when I was a kid. I used to go by the name of George when I was six and I had short hair, so tapping into that was quite easy when playing the male part.

Were you familiar with Shakespeare in Love before you accepted the role?

I’d seen the production very early on – during the dress rehearsal – and I’d seen the

film a while ago, so I knew about it.

I really love Shakespeare.

I’ve never actually done a professional production of Shakespeare, but I did a lot of it at drama school.

Shakespeare in Love consists of quite a large cast. Are there any difficulties when performing?

It’s a really good company, because Declan (director for Shakespeare in Love) has instilled that we do a group

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celebrates the history

warm up led by a different person in the company every night at 1800hrs. That’s really good, because you can quite easily go through a show without actually seeing people.

Every day we get together to make sure that doesn’t happen and to make sure we all stay in sync.

How does the film compare to the production of Shakespeare in Love?

I’d say that the production makes a lot of sense on stage.

Because it’s a love letter to theatre, it almost feels as if the film should have come after the stage production.

Shakespeare in Love has changed quite a bit. The structure, set pieces and the essence of the production has stayed the same, but we were given quite a lot of freedom as actors to find new relationships, and I think mine and Orlando James’ relationship is definitely different to Tom Bateman and Lucy Briggs-Owen.

Talk us through your favourite scene.

It’s my first audition. I’m dressed as a boy and I have to run up all the stairs to the top and tell the nurse I’ve been to an audition. Then I have to run back down and enter immediately in a big dress for the ball. I’m always so relieved that I manage to do all the quick changes. And I really like the balcony scene when Will is wooing Viola, but it’s actually Christopher Marlowe giving him the lines. That’s a really fun scene to do.

Shakespeare in Love is performed in early modern English; did you find it challenging to learn the lines?

Shakespeare in Love is really well written by Tom Stoppard and Lee Hall.

Good language is always easier to learn, because it just comes naturally. As soon as you get to the Shakespearian text it’s in verse and I actually find that much easier to learn because you’ve got a rhythm – it’s almost like learning a song or a poem.

Do you prefer old-fashioned theatre to the more modern productions?

I think new writing is really www.grouptravelworld.com

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Shakespeare in Love brings authentic historical figures to life. JOHAN PERSSON important, but equally doing Shakespeare is brilliant because they’re timeless stories that we can all relate to.

Personally, I think it’s really important if you’re going to do old stories and old plays, to interpretate them in a new and exciting way.

How do you think Shakespeare in Love has kept up with modern audiences?

Shakespeare in Love definitely keeps up. For example, we recently had a bunch of sixth formers in. What a great show to see if you are studying Shakespeare at school.

You’ve got all the language in there and as an audience it makes you feel clever, because you’re recognising the jokes from different Shakespearian plays and you leave feeling knowledgeable, which is a positive thing.

Have you always been interested in acting?

I wanted to be a dancer for most of my life. Then I saw a

We recently had a bunch of sixth formers in. What a great show to see if you are studying Shakespeare at school. You’ve got all the language in there and as an audience it makes you feel clever production of The Crucible with my mum when I was about 15, and I was blown away.

I just started reading more and got really into reading plays. I was quite dyslexic and plays were easy to read, because it’s all broken down. I went to the theatre a lot, became obsessed with watching films, and pursued acting instead.

How does the environment between theatre and television compare?

It’s hugely different. In theatre, you’ll have a month of rehearsals and you get into the routine of performing every night and finding new stuff within that – obviously, in front of a live audience. Whereas

SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE EDUCATIONAL OFFERING In addition to transporting audiences to the famous Rose Theatre, Shakespeare in Love also brings to life authentic historic and literary figures including Queen Elizabeth, Christopher Marlowe, Richard Burbage and Edmund Tilney.

Keen to attract school groups to the show, Shakespeare in Love aims to provide an unforgettable way to learn about the life and times of William Shakespeare through a downloadable educational programme that accompanies

the show. The comprehensive programme consists of a curriculum-linked resource pack, with lesson plans and pupil worksheets including links to English, drama and history.

Shakespeare in Love is especially ideal for students following drama and theatre studies courses at all levels, as well as those studying drama in the classroom.

For more information visit www.shakespeareinlove.com/ groups-education

with television, it’s instant and you don’t necessarily get much rehearsal time. But equally, you get to play on adrenaline much more. With theatre, you just get into a routine. I find it quite hard, because you have to become nocturnal.

We’re very lucky, because it’s a really good cast of people that want to have fun, so every night you can discover new things and enjoy revisiting them.

What can audiences expect from Shakespeare in Love?

They can expect a high-energy piece of theatre. Shakespeare in Love is a romantic comedy that’s not just pure cheese.

It’s got heartache and it’s got laughter and it’s a story about growing up and becoming the person you need to be.

Discounted rates for groups of 8+ are available for Monday to Friday performances. Best available seats in Stalls & Royal Circle are reduced to £29.50, with Grand Circle seats reduced to £19.50. To book call 0844 482 5100 (Delfont Mackintosh) or 020 7845 0949 (Disney Group Sales).

Discounted rates for school groups are available for 10+ pupils for Monday to Thursday performances during term time, with one teacher admitted free. To book call 0844 482 5165 (Delfont Mackintosh) or 020 7845 0949 (Disney Group Sales).

Shakespeare in Love will be performed at the Noel Coward Theatre until June 2015. For more information visit www.shakespeareinlove.com April 2015 l

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T H E AT R E L I S T I N G S / / T O U R I N G

What follows is a list of theatre productions touring the UK. All dates listed are at least three months away.

Some earlier dates may be available.

ANNIE

Newcastle Theatre Royal: Jul 11-18 Llandudno Venue Cymru: Jul 21-25 Southampton Mayflower: Jul 28-Aug 1 Southend Cliffs Pavilion: Aug 3-8 Eastbourne Congress: Aug 10-15 Norwich Theatre Royal: Aug 17-22 Wales Millennium Centre: Aug 24-29 Bristol Hippodrome: Aug 31-Sep 5 Plymouth Theatre Royal: Sep 7-12 Manchester Opera House: Sep 15-26 Birmingham Hippodrome: Oct 13-31 Wimbledon Theatre: Nov 10-14 Woking New Victoria: Nov 17-21 Oxford New Theatre: Dec 15-Jan 3

ANYTHING GOES

Leeds Grand: Jun 30-Jul 4 Cardiff New: Jul 6-11 Wolverhampton Grand: Jul 13-18 Aberdeen: Jul 20-25 Dublin Bord Gais: Aug 2-8 Torquay: Aug 10-15 Bournemouth Pavilion: Aug 17-22 Woking New Victoria: Aug 31-Sep 5 Oxford New Theatre: Sep 7-12 Birmingham Hippodrome: Sep 14-19 MK Theatre: Sep 21-26 Sunderland Empire: Sep 28-Oct 3 Bristol Hippodrome: Oct 6-20

BARNUM

Canterbury Marlowe: Jun 23-Jul 4 Birmingham Hippodrome: Jul 7-Aug 1 Salford Lowry: Aug 4-8 Wales Millennium Centre: Aug11-15

THE BODYGUARD

Plymouth Theatre Royal: Jul 7-18 Birmingham Hippodrome: Aug 5-29 Southend Cliffs Pavilion: Sep 15-26 Edinburgh Playhouse: Sep 29-Oct 10 Nottingham Theatre Royal: Oct 13-24 Oxford New Theatre: Nov 10-21 Manchester Palace: Dec 8-Jan 9 2016 Leicester De Montfort: Mar 15-26

CALAMITY JANE

Leicester Curve: Jun 30-Jul 4 Hull New Theatre: Jul 7-11 Perth Concert Hall: Jul 14-18 Carlisle Sands: Jul 21-25 Tunbridge Wells Assembly: Jul 28- Aug 1 Richmond Theatre: Aug 4-8

THE CAR MAN

Sadler’s Wells Theatre: Jul 14-Aug 9

THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME

Southampton Mayflower: Jun 23-Jul 4 Truro Hall For Cornwall: Jul 7-11 Oxford New Theatre: Jul 14-18 Liverpool Empire: Jul 21-25 Bristol Hippodrome: Aug 4-8 The Empire Sunderland: Aug 11-15 Glasgow King’s: Aug 18-24 Leeds Grand: Aug 25-29 Aberdeen His Majesty’s: Sep 1-5 Theatre Royal Norwich: Sep 8-12 Sheffield Lyceum: Sep 15-26 Grand Theatre Belfast: Oct 13-17 MK Theatre: Nov 3-7

DIRTY DANCING

Theatre Royal Plymouth: Jun 16-Jul 4 Bradford Alhambra: Jul 7-25 Canterbury Marlowe: Aug 4-22 Theatre Royal Norwich: Aug 25-Sep 5 Aberdeen His Majesty’s: Sep 8-Oct 3 Llandudno Venue Cymru: Oct 6-17

DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS

Glasgow King’s: Jun 23-Jul 4 Liverpool Empire: Jul 7-18 Torquay Princess Theatre: Jul 21-25 Stoke Regent: Jul 28-Aug 1

Phoebe Street as Katie Brown in Calamity Jane. MANUEL HARLAN

Oxford New Theatre: Aug 4-8 Wales Millennium Centre: Aug 18-22 Edinburgh Playhouse: Sep 15-26

DREAMBOATS AND MINISKIRTS

Leeds Grand: Jul 13-18 Kings Theatre Glasgow: Aug 11-15

GODSPELL IN CONCERT

Wycombe Swan: Jul 1 Northampton Derngate: Jul 3

AVENUE Q

Hastings White Rock: Jun 29-Jul 1 Watford Colosseum: Jul 2-4 Doncaster Cast Theatre: Jul 7-11 Swindon Wyvern: Jul 14-18 Cheltenham Everyman: Jul 20-25 Swansea Grand: Jul 28-Aug 1 Woking New Victoria: Aug 4-8 Bournemouth Pavilion: Aug 11-15 Southend Palace: Aug 18-22 Glasgow King’s: Aug 25-29 Bromley Churchill: Sep 8-12 York Grand Opera House: Sep 15-19 Halifax Victoria: Sep 29-Oct 3 Richmond Theatre: Oct 27-31 Grimsby Auditorium: Nov 3-7 Preston Charter House: Nov 11-14 Woodville Halls Kent: Nov 17-21 2016 Bristol Hippodrome: Feb 8-13 Liverpool Empire: Feb 22-27 Wimbledon Theatre: Mar 14-19 42

MK Theatre: May 16-21

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HAIRSPRAY

Leicester Curve: Sep 9-19 Aylesbury Waterside: Sep 21-26 Northampton Derngate: Sep 28-Oct 3 Malvern Theatre: Oct 5-10 Liverpool Empire: Oct 12-17 Hull New Theatre: Oct 19-24 Manchester Palace Theatre: Oct 26-31 New Wimbledon Theatre: Nov 2-7 Bradford Alhambra: Nov 9-14 Southampton Mayflower: Nov 16-21 Ipswich Regent: Nov 23-28 Brighton Theatre Royal: Nov 30-Dec 12 Birmingham Alexandra: Dec 14-Jan 2 2016 Newcastle Theatre Royal: Jan 18-30 Aberdeen His Majesty’s: Feb 1-6 Edinburgh Playhouse: Feb 22-27 Oxford New Theatre: Feb 29-Mar 5 Bristol Hippodrome: Mar 7-12 www.grouptravelworld.com

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The Mousetrap is celebrating its first ever UK Tour.

Woking New Victoria: Mar 14-19 Cardiff New Theatre: Mar 21-26 Norwich Theatre Royal: Mar 28-Apr 2 MK Theatre: Apr 4-9 Leeds Grand: Apr 11-16 Plymouth Theatre Royal: Apr 18-23 Stoke Regent: Apr 25-30 Bromley Churchill: May 2-7 Canterbury Marlowe: May 9-14 Southend Palace: May 16-21

JERSEY BOYS

Liverpool Empire: Jun 23-Jul 4 Norwich Theatre Royal: Jul 7-18 Wales Millennium Centre: Jul 21-Aug 1 Southampton Mayflower: Aug 4-15 Sunderland Empire: Sep 8-19 Sheffield Lyceum: Oct 6-17 Llandudno Venue Cymru: Nov 10-21 Glasgow Theatre Royal: Dec 8-Jan 3

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR

Leeds Grand: Jul 6-11 MK Theatre: Jul 14-18 Bristol Hippodrome: Jul 21-25

LORD OF THE DANCE

G Live Guildford: Jun 30-Jul 2 SSE Arena Wembley: Jul 4

MACK AND MABEL

Theatre Royal Plymouth: Oct 1-10 www.grouptravelworld.com

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Manchester Opera House: Oct 12-14 Dublin Bord Gais: Oct 27-Nov 7 Edinburgh Playhouse: Nov 10-21 Theatre Royal Nottingham: Nov 23-28 Wales Millennium Centre: Dec 1-6

MARY POPPINS

Leicester Curve: Oct 13-24 Bristol Hippodrome: Oct 29-Nov 28 Dublin Bord Gais: Dec 3-Jan 9 2016 Manchester Palace Theatre: Jan 20-Mar 5 Birmingham Hippodrome: Mar 9-Apr 23 Edinburgh Festival: Apr 27-May 21 Southampton Mayflower: May 25-Jun 19

THE MOUSETRAP

Wolverhampton Grand: Jun 29-Jul 4 Sheffield Lyceum: Jul 6-11 Weston-Super-Mare: Jul 13-18 Swansea Grand: Jul 20-25 Bradford Alhambra: Jul 27-Aug 1 Bournemouth Pavilion: Aug 3-8 Oxford Playhouse: Aug 17-22 Truro Hall For Cornwall: Aug 24-29 Canterbury Marlowe: Sep 1-5 Northampton Royal Derngate: Sep 7-12 Gala Durham: Sep 14-19 Woodville Halls Gravesend: Sep 21-26 Dorking Halls: Sep 28-Oct 3 The Capitol Horsham: Oct 5-10 Alban Arena: Oct 12-17

Colchester Mercury: Oct 19-24 Town House Hamilton: Oct 26-31 Buxton Opera House: Nov 2-7 Coventry Belgrade: Nov 9-14

OKLAHOMA

Birmingham Hippodrome: Jun 30-Jul 4 Sheffield Crucible: Jul 21-Aug 1 Wycombe Swan: August 4-8

PETER PAN GOES WRONG

Theatre Royal Newcastle: Jul 1-4 Theatre Royal Nottingham: Jul 6-11

THE PRODUCERS

Oxford New Theatre: Jun 29-Jul 4 Dublin Bord Gais: July 6-11

SHREK THE MUSICAL

Southampton Mayflower: July 8-26 Plymouth Theatre Royal: July 28-Aug 15 MK Theatre: Aug 18-Sep 6 Bradford Alhambra: Sep 9-27 Edinburgh Playhouse: Oct 21-Nov 9 Wales Millennium Centre: Dec 8-Jan 10 2016 Salford Lowry: Feb 2-20

SLEEPING BEAUTY

Theatre Royal Plymouth: Oct 17-24 Leicester Curve: Oct 28-Nov 1 Theatre Royal Glasgow: Nov 17-21

The Lowry Salford: Nov 24-28 Sadler’s Wells Theatre: Dec 1-Jan 24 2016 Woking New Victoria: Feb 2-6 Liverpool Empire: Feb 16-20 Bradford Alhambra: Feb 23-27 Bristol Hippodrome: Mar 1-5 Theatre Royal Norwich: Mar 8-21 Southampton Mayflower: Mar 15-19 Theatre Royal Nottingham: Apr 19-23

SOUND OF MUSIC

Bristol Hippodrome: Jun 22-Jul 4 Eastbourne Congress: Jul 7-18 Leeds Grand Theatre: Jul 20-Aug 1 Belfast Grand Opera House: Aug 4-15 Dublin Bord Gais: Aug 17-29

SPAMALOT

Torquay Princess Theatre: July 6-11

TOP HAT

Sunderland Empire: Jun 24-July 4 Woking New Victoria: July 7-18 Eastbourne Congress: July 21-26

WICKED

Salford Lowry: Jun 3-Jul 25 When booking, please mention

April 2015 l

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T H E AT R E / / I N T E R V I E W

interview:

ALEX BEAUMONT Alex Beaumont discusses his experience playing the lead role in smash hit touring production DREAMBOATS AND MINISKIRTS

W

hen former Windsor Boys’ School pupil Alex Beaumont returned to his hometown last August to play the lead in hit touring musical Dreamboats and Miniskirts, it was a milestone moment for the young actor.

Alex played the lead role of Bobby in the show, which launched its UK tour at the Theatre Royal Windsor.

26-year-old Alex was proud to tread the boards in front of his native audience.

“We were opening a new show, it was the first time I’d played a lead and it was in my home town theatre, so that was really amazing,” says Alex, whose previous credits include playing Prince Valentine in the UK tour of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and reaching the final stage of Bootcamp as part of pop group Universal Squared on series seven of The X Factor.

Dreamboats and Miniskirts is produced

by Bill Kenwright and Laurie Mansfield in association with Universal Music and is filled with music, humour and nostalgia.

Dreamboats and Miniskirts features a host of 1960s hits such as Twist and Shout, Handy Man, Pretty Woman and One Fine Day. The production continues from Dreamboats and Petticoats and is a standalone show. Here, Alex Beaumont shares his experiences of the show and how it feels to play his first leading role.

How’s the tour going?

It’s going really well and we’re all enjoying the tour. The ‘60s music is what really makes it. I have a soft spot for the character of Bobby and I do identify with him. We’re similar because we’re typical boys; we don’t really think about things, like girls’ feelings.

He’s an ignorant boy [laughs].

The cast must know each other really well.

Is it like one big family?

Yeah, it really is. It’s also amazing to have 44

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a live band on stage, because you feel like you have that support. Everyone gets on great. We all go for meals together or stay in the same ‘digs’ together so yeah, it really is like one big family.

For those who haven’t seen the show, tell us a bit about it and your character.

The show focuses on Bobby and Laura.

They’ve just had massive success with Dreamboats and Petticoats and in Miniskirts you see how their relationship - both professionally and romantically - is going to work and whether it will actually continue to work long term. You also have recurring characters like Norman and Sue, who are married and getting along nicely.

And then there’s Donna and Ray. Ray is now working in a salon in Bond Street and Donna is working in her boutique, and they’re going through every day relationship struggles too.

They’re all a little bit older and everyone’s matured - apart from Bobby.

Charles, Sam Cooke and all those great singers.

In the show you’ve got Roy Orbison, Smokey Robinson and other amazing singers who you don’t really get to hear these days.

Their songs have stood the test of time and that’s why I like this kind of music. As for fashion, I do like the Chelsea boots that I get to wear every night and having a nice sharp suit to wear is always a good thing.

It’s a show set in the 1960s. Do you find the audiences are from that generation or does the show appeal to a younger audience too?

A bit of both actually. Generally, the audiences are people who were the age of the characters in the show in the 1960s.

Most of the people we meet after the show tell us how it took them back to their youth and that it was really nice to reminisce.

That generation are then taking their children and their children’s children to come and see the show as well. We’ve had young children in the audience who know all the words to the songs, which is brilliant. So it just goes to show that even if you weren’t around in that era, you can still appreciate it.

Has your music and fashion taste changed because of the show?

I’ve always loved ‘60s music, though before I played the role of Bobby it was more jazz and soul; Ben E. King, Ray www.grouptravelworld.com

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I have a soft spot for the character of Bobby and I do identify with him.

We’re similar because we’re typical boys; we don’t really think about things, like girls’ feelings

I’ve definitely relaxed into the role and what has really helped is finding those similarities between you as a person, and as a character. It makes it a lot easier to relate to. Plus, it’s taught me not to be so hard on myself.

Because it’s such a massive role and no one’s superhuman, you learn how to conserve your energy, but still make sure you give enough for every show. And those are skills that will hopefully continue to develop throughout the rest of my career.

Do you like being on the road? Where are you most looking forward to visiting on tour?

Elizabeth Carter as Laura and Alex Beaumont as Bobby in Dreamboats and Miniskirts. DARREN BELL You’ve said in the past that you’ve grown as the show has gone on, how have you changed since your very first performance last August?

I love being on the road. I’m really looking forward to going to Manchester, which is where I trained [Alex studied at the Arden School of Theatre]. It’s going to be amazing to go back there and see some old friends who I’ve not seen in years and who are coming to see the show. It’s such an amazing city and one of the best places to live.

You went home to Windsor again in March 2015, having opened the tour there last August – was that just as good the second time around?

I was really looking forward to going back to Windsor and seeing my hometown crowd.

Dreamboats and Miniskirts continues its UK tour, playing at The Palace Theatre in Manchester from April 20 to April 25.

It then moves on to the Bristol Hippodrome from July 27 to August 1, before playing at the King’s Theatre in Glasgow from August 11 to August 15. Find out more at www. atgtickets.com/shows/dreamboats-andminiskirts

That’s what made the first time so special; we were opening a new show, it was the first time I’d played a lead and it was in my hometown theatre, so that was really amazing.

All my family were there to see me when we played in Windsor for the second time in March, as well as my extended family, as they’re all still quite local to the area.

My grandparents always come and see me. They’ve been to Cardiff and all over the place. They’re my super fans. ■

Alex Beaumont as Bobby in Dreamboats and Miniskirts, with a live band on stage. DARREN BELL

SYNDICATE INTERVIEW PROVIDED

BY BILL KENWRIGHT LTD

www.grouptravelworld.com

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April 2015 ●

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C O M E DY / / T O U R S

Group Travel World provides show listings for some of the top comedians on tour in 2015 ALAN CARR – YAP, YAP, YAP Olympia Dublin: Jun 4-7 Kings Theatre Southsea: Jun 26-27 Leeds Grand: Jun 28 Blackpool Grand: Jul 2 Caird Hall Dundee: Jul 3-4 Baths Hall Scunthorpe: Jul 9 Scarborough Spa: Jul 9-10 York Barbican: Jul 11 Leeds Grand: Jul 12 St Helier Fort Regent: Jul 16 Ipswich Regent: Jul 18 Colston Hall Bristol: Jul 22-24 St George’s Hall Bradford: Jul 25 Victoria Theatre Halifax: Jul 26 Middlesbrough Town Hall: Jul 29-30 Carlisle Sands: Jul 31-Aug 1 Leicester De Montfort: Aug 2 Eastbourne Congress: Aug 5 BIC Bournemouth: Aug 7-8 Aberdeen Her Majesty’s: Aug 12-15 Buxton Opera House: Aug 21-22 Cork Opera House: Aug 27-29 Nottingham Royal: Sep 5 Leeds Grand: Sep 6 Birmingham Hippodrome: Sep 11-12 Liverpool Philharmonic: Sep 18-19 London Eventim Apollo: Sep 23-25 Wolverhampton Civic: Sep 26 Plymouth Pavilions: Oct 2-3 Sheffield City Hall: Oct 9-10 St David’s Hall: Oct 15 Wolverhampton Civic: Oct 16 St David’s Hall: Oct 17-18 Newcastle City Hall: Oct 22-24 Glasgow Clyde Auditorium: Oct 30-31 O2 Apollo Manchester: Nov 5-7 Hull City Hall: Nov 14-15 Brighton Dome: Nov 20-21 Southampton Mayflower: Nov 22 Belfast Waterfront: Nov 26-28 Derry Millennium Forum: Dec 10-12

BILL BAILEY – LIMBOLAND Plymouth Pavilion: Oct 9-10 Cliffs Pavilion: Oct 12-13 Reading Hexagon: Oct 14-15 Sheffield City Hall: Oct 16-17 Aberdeen Music Hall: Oct 19-20 SECC Glasgow: Oct 21-22 King George’s Hall: Oct 23-24 Philharmonic Hall: Oct 26-27 St David’s Hall: Oct 28-29 O2 Apollo Manchester: Oct 30 Warwick Arts Centre: Nov 2-3 Leicester De Montfort: Nov 4-5 Cambridge Corn Exchange: Nov 6-7 46

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City Hall Hull: Nov 9-10 Scarborough Spa: Nov 11-12 Preston Guildhall: Nov 13-14 G Live Guildford: Nov 16-17 Wolves Civic: Nov 18-19 Watford Colosseum: Nov 20-21 Victoria Theatre Halifax: Nov 23-24 Newcastle City Hall: Nov 28-29 Edinburgh Playhouse: Nov 30 Brighton Centre: Dec 3 Portsmouth Guildhall: Dec 4-5 BIC Bournemouth: Dec 6 London Eventim Apollo: Dec 8-9

DANNY BHOY – PLEASE UNTICK THIS BOX Exeter Corn Exchange: Jun 1 Forest Arts New Milton: Jun 2 Winchester Discovery Centre: Jun 3 Walker Theatre Shrewsbury: Jun 8 Middleton Arena: Jun 9 Stockton-On-Tees: Jun 10 Trinity Arts Tunbridge Wells: Jun 13 Basingstoke Haymarket: Jun 14 South Hill Park Bracknell: Jun 15 Old Fire Station Carlisle: Jun 16 Beggars Theatre Millom: Jun 17 Gulbenkian Canterbury: Jun 20 Komedia Bath: Jun 21 Leadmill Sheffield: Jun 22 Lawrence Batley Huddersfield: Jun 23 Newbury Corn Exchange: Jun 24

DYLAN MORAN – OFF THE HOOK

Horsecross Perth: Aug 7

ED BYRNE – OUTSIDE, LOOKING IN The Met Bury: Sep 29 Middleton Arena: Sep 30 Crewe Lyceum: Oct 1 The Maltings Berwick: Oct 2 The Forum Barrow: Oct 3 Norden Farm Centre Maidenhead: Oct 7 Alban Arena: Oct 8 Braintree Arts: Oct 9 Princes Hall Aldershot: Oct 11 Theatre Severn Shrewsbury: Oct 13 Loughborough Town Hall: Oct 14 Lawrence Batley Huddersfield: Oct 17 Stafford Gatehouse: Oct 18 Redditch Palace Theatre: Oct 20 Bedford Corn Exchange: Oct 21 Komedia Bath: Oct 22 Regal Cinema Evesham: Oct 23 Hertford Theatre: Oct 24

Andover Lights: Oct 27 Leamington Spa: Oct 28 Gloucester Guildhall: Oct 29 Leeds Varieties: Oct 30 Huntingdon Hall Worcester: Nov 4 The Maltings Farnham: Nov 5 Shanklin Theatre: Nov 7 Gala Theatre Durham: Nov 8 Epsom Playhouse: Nov 11 Engine Shed Lincoln: Nov 12 Chorley Little Theatre: Nov 13 Exeter Corn Exchange: Nov 16 Exmouth Pavilion: Nov 18 Wyvern Swindon: Nov 19 Barnsley Civic Theatre: Nov 20 Lancaster Grand: Nov 21 Theatre Royal Winchester: Nov 23 Old Market Hove: Nov 24 Norwich Playhouse: Nov 25-26 Hazlitt Arts Centre: Nov 27 Lowther Pavilion: Nov 28 Beggars Theatre Millom: Dec 1 Brewery Arts Kendal: Dec 2 The Cube Corby: Dec 4 Palace Theatre Southend: Dec 6 Tivoli Theatre Wimborne: Dec 7 Wulfrun Hall Wolverhampton: Dec 10 Assembly Hall Worthing: Dec 11

JACK DEE – JACK DEE’S HELP DESK Hereford Courtyard: Jun 27

JIMMY CARR – FUNNY BUSINESS Colston Hall Bristol: Jun 5 O2 Academy Brixton: Jun 6 Wales Millennium Centre: Jun 7 Sheffield City Hall: Jun 19 Derngate Theatre Northampton: Jun 23

Warwick Arts Centre: Jun 26 Leeds Town Hall: Jul 3 Symphony Hall Birmingham: Jul 4 Empire Theatre Sunderland: Jul 11 Canterbury Marlowe: Jul 14 Alhambra Theatre: Aug 7 Princess Theatre Torquay: Aug 21 Bridlington Spa: Aug 28 Watford Colosseum: Sep 1 Gordon Craig Theatre Stevenage: Sep 5 Pyramid Warrington: Sep 26 Scarborough Spa Complex: Nov 7

KATHERINE RYAN – GLAM ROLE MODEL South Hill Park Bracknell: Jun 3 Chelmsford Civic: Jun 4 The Alban Arena: Jun 5 Fairfield Croydon: Jun 6 Princes Hall Aldershot: Jun 7 Swindon Arts Centre: Jun 11 Harlequin Theatre Redhill: Jun 12 Poole Lighthouse: Jun 13 Brighton Dome: Jun 14 Loughborough Town Hall: Jun 25 Milton Keynes Stables: Jun 27 Basingstoke Haymarket: Jun 28 Key Theatre Peterborough: Jul 1 Bloomsbury Theatre: Jul 2

LEE NELSON – SUITED AND BOOTED Palace Theatre Southend: Jun 5

MICHAEL MCINTYRE – HAPPY & GLORIOUS Plymouth Pavilion: Aug 12-15 www.grouptravelworld.com

25/03/2015 15:52

Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ grouptravelworld

Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @GTWMagazine

Sheffield City Hall: Nov 28

NOEL FIELDING – AN EVENING WITH…

Danny Bhoy tours throughout June 2015 with Please Untick This Box Bournemouth BIC: Aug 20-22 Brighton Centre: Aug 27-29 Motorpoint Arena Cardiff: Sep 2-6 Capital FM Arena Nottingham: Sep 10-12 Birmingham Barclaycard: Sep 18-26 London O2 Arena: Oct 1-4, 8-10 Motorpoint Arena Sheffield: Oct 16-17 The SSE Arena London: Oct 22-24 Phones 4u Arena Manchester: Oct 29-31 3Arena Dublin: Nov 6-7 Odyssey Arena Belfast: Nov 13-14 The SSE Hydro Glasgow: Nov 19-21 AECC Aberdeen: Nov 24-25 Metro Arena Newcastle: Nov 27-28 Liverpool Echo Arena: Dec 4-5

MILTON JONES & THE TEMPLE OF DAFT Oakengates Theatre Telford: Jun 4 Symphony Hall Birmingham: Jun 5 City Hall Hull: Jun 6 Grand Theatre Blackpool: Jun 7 White Rock Theatre Hastings: Jun 10 Canterbury Marlowe: Jun 11 Reading Hexagon: Jun 12-13 Orchard Theatre Dartford: Jun 14 Opera House Jersey: Jun 17-18 Watford Colosseum: Jun 19 Princess Theatre Torquay: Jun 20 Plymouth Pavilion: Jun 21 Theatre Royal Brighton: Jun 24-25 MK Theatre: Jun 26-27

NINA CONTI – IN YOUR FACE Severn Theatre Shrewsbury: Sep 17 G Live Guildford: Sep 18 Lowestoft Marina Theatre: Sep 19 De La Warr Pavilion: Sep 20 www.grouptravelworld.com

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Cheltenham Town Hall: Sep 22 Lowry Salford: Sep 27 Grove Theatre Dunstable: Oct 1 Parr Hall Warrington: Oct 2 Canterbury Marlowe: Oct 4 Wulfrun Hall Wolverhampton: Oct 9 Harrogate Theatre: Oct 10 Warwick Arts Centre: Oct 11 Engine Shed Lincoln: Oct 15 Nottingham Playhouse: Oct 18 Brighton Corn Exchange: Oct 22 Galway Town Hall: Oct 24 Cork Everyman Theatre: Oct 26 Alhambra Dunfermline: Oct 28 Dundee Rep Theatre: Oct 29 Aberdeen Music Hall: Oct 30 Nuffield Theatre Southampton: Nov 1 Loughborough Town Hall: Nov 5 Dorking Halls: Nov 6 City Hall Salisbury: Nov 7 THSH Birmingham: Nov 11 Port Talbot Princess Theatre: Nov 13 Llandudno Cymru: Nov 14 Cambridge Corn Exchange: Nov 21

Aylesbury Waterside: Nov 12 Tunbridge Wells Assembly Hall: Nov 13 EICC Edinburgh: Nov 14 Glasgow King’s: Nov 15 Aberdeen Music Hall: Nov 16 Bromley Churchill: Nov 18 London New Wimbledon: Nov 19 Croydon Fairfield: Nov 20 Scarborough Spa: Nov 21 Northampton Derngate: Nov 22 Baths Hall Scunthorpe: Nov 25 Oxford New Theatre: Nov 26 Preston Guildhall: Nov 27 King George’s Blackburn: Nov 28 Woking New Victoria: Nov 29 Leeds O2 Academy: Dec 2 Carlisle Sands Centre: Dec 3 Cambridge Corn Exchange: Dec 4 Wolverhampton Civic: Dec 5 Margate Winter Gardens: Dec 9 Salford Lowry: Dec 10 Colston Hall Bristol: Dec 11

PADDY MCGUINNESS – DADDY MCGUINNESS Baths Hall Scunthorpe: Sep 28 Middlesbrough Town Hall: Sep 29 Theatre Royal Harrogate: Sep 30 Watford Colosseum: Oct 1 MK Theatre: Oct 3 Theatre Royal Brighton: Oct 4 Aylesbury Waterside: Oct 7 Northampton Derngate: Oct 8 G Live Guildford: Oct 9 Weston-Super-Mare: Oct 10 Bromley Churchill: Oct 11 Cliffs Pavilion Southend: Oct 14 Leas Cliff Folkestone: Oct 15 Ipswich Regent: Oct 16 Bournemouth Pavilion: Oct 17 New Wimbledon Theatre: Oct 18 Liverpool Empire: Oct 22 Leicester De Montfort: Oct 23

25 YEARS OF REEVES & MORTIMER – THE POIGNANT MOMENTS Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer are set to tour the UK later this year, marking 25 years since their iconic partnership began. The Poignant Moments will be the comedy duo’s first live tour since 1994 and will revisit many of their much-loved collaborations.

Glasgow Clyde Auditorium: Nov 11 Newcastle City Hall: Nov 12

Liverpool Echo 2: Nov 14 Blackpool Opera House: Nov 19 Birmingham Symphony Hall: Nov 20 Cardiff CIA: Nov 21 Bristol Colston Hall: Nov 25 Portsmouth Guildhall: Nov 27 Plymouth Pavilions: Nov 29 Sheffield City Hall: Dec 1 Ipswich Regent: Dec 2 Nottingham Royal Concert Hall: Dec 3 Brighton Centre: Dec 4

Join our Linkedin group Group Travel World Magazine

Stoke Regent: Oct 24 Tunbridge Wells Assembly Hall: Oct 28 Birmingham New Alexandra: Oct 30 King George’s Blackburn: Nov 1 Llandudno Venue Cymru: Nov 4 Carlisle Sands: Nov 6 Aberdeen Music Hall: Nov 7 Alhambra Dunfermline: Nov 8 Southport Theatre: Dec 4 Preston Guildhall: Dec 5 City Hall Hull: Dec 6 Warwick Arts Coventry: Dec 10 Southampton Guildhall: Dec 11 Wolverhampton Civic: Dec 12 2016 King’s Lynn Corn Exchange: Jan 28 Blackpool Winter Gardens: Jan 29

SEAN LOCK – WORK IN PROGRESS Ivybridge Watermark: Jun 21 Leicester Square: Nov 2, 3, 11-15

STEWART FRANCIS – PUN GENT The Engine Shed Lincoln: Jun 4 Cambridge Corn Exchange: Jun 6 Palace Theatre: Jun 9 The Alban Arena: Jun 10 Bloomsbury Theatre: Jun 11-13 City Varieties Leeds: Oct 14 Barrow-in-Furness: Oct 15 York Barbican: Oct 16 Volvo Tyne Newcastle: Oct 17 Royal Theatre Harrogate: Oct 21 Derngate Theatre Northampton: Oct 22 Electric Palace Bridport: Oct 23 Bournemouth Pavilion: Oct 24 Artrix Bromsgrove: Oct 27 Theatr Hafren Newton: Oct 28 Lyceum Theatre Crewe: Oct 29 St David’s Hall Cardiff: Oct 30 Portsmouth Guildhall: Oct 31 The Lowry Salford: Nov 3 Sheffield City Hall: Nov 5 Colston Hall Bristol: Nov 6 Kettering Arts Centre: Nov 10 Philharmonic Hall: Nov 11 King George’s Blackburn: Nov 12 Leicester De Montfort: Nov 13 Swansea Grand Theatre: Nov 14 Warrington Pyramid: Nov 18 St George’s Bradford: Nov 19 Baths Hall Scunthorpe: Nov 20 Orchard Theatre Dartford: Nov 21 Colchester Arts: Nov 24 Watford Colosseum: Nov 26 Brighton Dome: Nov 27 Ulster Hall Belfast: Dec 1 Theatre Royal Margate: Dec 2 Symphony Hall Birmingham: Dec 3 Fairfield Croydon: Dec 4 White Rock Hastings: Dec 5 Rothes Halls Glenrothes: Dec 10 Aberdeen Music Hall: Dec 11 Caird Hall Dundee: Dec 12 April 2015 l

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Your group,our hotels. .

Stay individual

Since its foundation 25 years ago the CTC has become the leading organisation for promoting travel and tourism by coach

C TC B U L L E T I N From Paul Ovington, CTC Public Relations

2015 Members Update

M

embers are the lifeblood of the CTC, so I am delighted to welcome and list 26 new members who have joined the organisation over the past three months.

Operators and wholesalers include Tally Ho Coaches of Kingsbridge in Devon, now with its own tours and holiday programme; Spot Travel in Bearsted, Kent, which celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2014 and provides group tours, excursions and private hire, and Stewarts Coaches of Reading, with a large range of coaches for private hire and owner of long-standing CTC member Woods Coaches of Leicester. Additionally, new members include Tours Isle of Man offering private hire and tours from the Isle of Man to the UK, and The Group Company based in York, which provides hotel accommodation and ground handling services for groups throughout Europe.

Attractions include Arsenal Football Club boasts stadium tours at the Emirates Stadium and Brightoni360, which is scheduled to open in 2016 at West Pier and will be the world’s tallest moving observation tower; CroisiEurope River Cruises, which has a fleet of 43 ships running from cities in France, Italy, Spain, Germany and Belgium, and Devizes Area Tourism Partnership, which has recently been awarded ‘Coach Friendly’ status by the CPT. Additional attractions include Wadworth Brewery, the Wiltshire Museum, the Kent & Avon Canal Trust Museum and Caen Hill. Devon’s Top Attractions represents castles, botanical gardens, stately homes, steam railways, zoos and theme parks in the region; Efteling Theme Park Resort in Holland, which is Europe’s third largest theme park with more than 30 rides and rollercoasters, including its famous enchanting Fairytale Forest. Plus there’s Great Scotland, which is a group of attractions consisting of Bell’s Blair Athol Distillery, www.grouptravelworld.com

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Blair Castle, Discovery Point in Dundee, Glamis Castle, Scone Palace and Scotland’s Jute Museum, and Knowsley Safari Park on Merseyside, which is home to elephants, giraffe, lions, bongos, tigers, baboons and many more. Also joining are Merlin Entertainments, with iconic brands including Alton Towers, Chessington World of Adventures, LEGOLAND, Thorpe Park, Madame Tussauds, Blackpool Tower and Warwick Castle. The Shuttleworth Collection, which is home to some of the last remaining aircraft of their type anywhere in the world, showcased alongside vintage cars and classic motorcycles. Stuart Line Cruises in Exmouth, which runs on the River Exe, the Jurassic Coast and down to Torquay and Brixham; The National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, which is the UK’s annual centre of remembrance, home to the Armed Forces Memorial. The View From The Shard, which is London’s highest viewing platform and Turks Launches, boasting services along the River Thames between Richmond, Kingston and Hampton Court. Visit Guildford, with its market town and borough, which includes stately homes, gardens and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and WWT Wetland Centres featuring nine visitor centres across the UK. From the hotel sector comes Freedom Hotels, now with eight accommodation options in Scotland and England, including the Crieff and Peebles Hydro Hotels; Mill Rythe Holiday Village on Hayling Island, which is one of the South Coast’s premier resorts, and Portbyhan Hotel in Looe Cornwall, which is owned by long standing CTC member Edwards Coaches.

New B2B members include Irizar UK, which is the sole UK supplier of DAF-powered Irizar coaches and Talk Tourism, which provides and organises a variety of customised tours, walks and talks for groups in London.

Historic Royal Palaces marked the 500th anniversary of Hampton Court Palace with a travel trade reception. (L-R) Lucy Hillyard from Historic Royal Palaces, Melanie Cox from Epsom Coaches, Rita Beckwith and Gary Beckwith from City Cruises and Lesley Terrell from Historic Royal Palaces.

Cruise & Maritime Voyages’ new flagship Magellan was named by Gloria Hunniford at a ceremony held in Tilbury. (L-R) Tricia Regan from CMV, Steve Moore from Independent Coach Travel (ICT) Jane Duffelen from Shaws Coaches and Paul Heustice from Disneyland Paris.

(L-R) Pictured at Best of Britain & Ireland are Lisa Weaver from Woburn Abbey, Ben Pinsent from Independent Coach Travel, Kathryn Collins from Cambria Tours, Blanche Fitzgerald from The Tourism Society and the CTC’s Chris Wales, with Louisa Ferrari and Ollie Burton from BBC Tours in front.

April 2015 ●

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B R I TA I N ’ S B E S T T H E M E PA R K S

t n e m n i a t r Ente p a T On

s theme parks e r lo p x e k n a b il Helen M e UK, ideal for th in h it w s n o ti and attrac s and children ie il m fa g in k e e s thrill-

H

olidaymakers in Kent will be celebrating over the summer as one of the county’s original theme parks re-opens, breathing new life into Margate’s entertainment scene.

Following an 11-year campaign, Dreamland - one of Britain’s original pleasure parks - is set to re-open, ready to welcome a new generation keen to enjoy the attraction’s rides.

While the exact opening date is yet to be announced (www.dreamland.co.uk), it’s great news for the thousands of coach trippers who holiday in the town each year, in addition to the local economy and

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heritage. Dating back to the 1860s, the original park was re-named Dreamland in the 1920s, with its resurrection cementing its position as the oldest surviving amusement park in the UK. Dreamland was one of Britain’s bestloved amusement parks in its heyday and became one of the top 10 most visited attractions. Spread over 16acres, the park included a zoo, a miniature railway and a 2,200-seat purpose built cinema, as well as cafés, restaurants, bars and a 2,000-capacity ballroom. However, all that changed back in 2003 when the park was forced to close. Since then, £18million in public funding has been secured to restore

Dreamland and its Grade II-listed railway, cinema complex and animal cages.

Thanet District Council compulsorilypurchased the site in September 2013 and work began last year to restore the site.

Visit the attraction’s website for a taste of the rides set to open soon, as well as details of how to book your group day trip or short break to the Kent coast.

Assistance for group travel organisers, including details of local hotels and places to visit, can be found at www.visitthanet. co.uk/group-travel.

A few hundred miles west of Margate, located in the Welsh countryside of Pembrokeshire, is Oakwood Theme Park, www.grouptravelworld.com

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Find more theme park attractions listed within our free online directory: www.grouptravelworld/directory

I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! ™ & © ITV Studios Limited 2015.

LICENSED BY ITV BROADCASTING LIMITED. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Alton Towers is a thrillseeker’s paradise

In the centre sits the LEGOLAND Windsor Hotel, brimming with LEGO features, as you might expect. Its theme park packages include an overnight stay and entry tickets, while it also appeals to corporate groups through state-of-the-art conference facilities and an event suite if your group’s needs are more business-minded. See www.legoland.co.uk for more details.

LEGO aside, theme parks don’t come any bigger and better than Alton Towers, which now sits alongside CBeebies Land, a waterpark and spa and the venue’s Extraordinary Golf and Tree Top Quest attractions (www.altontowers.com).

Groups can stay at Alton Tower’s Splash Landings Hotel or its Enchanted Village.

While the attraction’s website also points group travel organisers in the direction of nearby, off-site hotels and accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes.

GET ME IN THERE

New for 2015, discover the all-new I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! Maze, launched at Thorpe Park Resort in Surrey.

Groups can grab their khakis and wander into the TV-inspired jungle where they’ll compete for a prized star, as they take

which attracts more than 400,000 visitors every year. Oakwood has grown from a modest family park into a thrill-seeker’s paradise, housing a number of whiteknuckle rides including Speed, Drenched, Vertigo and Megafobia.

The park opens this month.

Young children, families and adrenaline junkies are well catered for and group discounts and deals are available – see the website for details at www. oakwoodthemepark.co.uk.

Nearby hotels are listed on the site if you’d prefer to make a weekend of it, with plenty of restaurants and bars situated in the park itself. www.grouptravelworld.com

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PIECE TOGETHER A GREAT DAY OUT

Perfect for LEGO-loving groups of school children, or families looking to indulge their offspring’s penchant for building blocks, LEGOLAND Windsor Resort puts the ‘theme’ into ‘park’ with LEGO-themed rides, models, building workshops, swimming pools and even a hotel.

More than 55 interactive rides, live shows and attractions - set within 150acres of parkland - make LEGOLAND a child’s paradise.

They can fly through the treetops to escape fearsome dragons, ride the rapids with a Viking fleet or join LEGO divers on an epic underwater adventure.

»

ADVENTURE AND WILDLIFE ROLLED INTO ONE Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park near Bristol caters for animal-loving youngsters keen to meet the centre’s wild and not-so wild inhabitants, let off some steam in the indoor play barn, have a go at archery and Segway riding, and explore on a pedal go-cart. Train and tractor rides add to the attractions at the park, which offers 10% off ticket prices for groups of 20 or more, as well as group catering options. See the website for details at www.avonvalleycountrypark.com.

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LEGOLAND Windsor Resort puts the ‘theme’ into ‘park’ with LEGO-themed rides B R I TA I N ’ S B E S T T H E M E PA R K S B I C E N T E N A R Y / / T H E B AT T L E O F W AT E R L O O on some of the most iconic trials inspired by the award-winning TV show. Visitors can slither their way down jungle-themed rooms such as the Vile Vineyard, down to the Croc Creek rope bridge where they’ll cross into the jungle’s dense undergrowth.

Then they’ll need to continue through the Catacombs of Doom in order to tackle their first trial, Holey Moley.

Only the brave will be tasked with reaching through several creepy crevices to unearth stars used to unlock a secret corridor to help them progress in their journey. There follows the maze’s second trial – a live game show experience in the Chambers of Horror. Not for the faint hearted, day-trippers can delve into the Calamity Caves, before climbing through the Pipe of Peril. There’s just time to catch their breath inside the Cruelty Towers before guiding their way through the Tunnel of Terror to meet their final trial; The Celebrity Cyclone. With actors on hand to bring the jungle experience to life, it’s a LEGOLAND brings the world of LEGO to life

GO APE! Group activities don’t come any more thrilling than a visit to one of Go Ape’s award-winning centres, where thrill-seekers can opt for a tree top adventure, go Segwaying through forest tracks, have a go at ‘zip-trekking’ on a high wire or take the tree top junior challenge.

With nearly 30 centres across the UK, visit goape.co.uk to plan your group outing. Don’t forget to pack your head for heights.

one-off experience for groups of all ages.

For more information on the maze, the park’s other attractions and group deals visit www.thorpepark.com.

There’s a hotel on-site – the Thorpe Shark Hotel with its bite-sized rooms – and ticketand-stay deals available to tempt groups.

WILD DAYS OUT

Not a sea of pink feathers as its name suggests, but rather a modern, high tech amusement centre, Flamingo Land Resort

Yorkshire is home to a theme park, zoo and holiday resort, complete with lodges, log cabins and a camping and caravan park.

Groups can stay on-site and spend a few days exploring the park’s seven themed areas, as well as its leisure complex, golf course and animal-packed zoo.

See the website for full details at www.flamingoland.co.uk.

Drayton Manor Theme Park in Staffordshire is an entertainment complex that mixes wild animals with thrill rides,

Drayton Manor Theme Park. SAM BAGNALL

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EXPLORE BRITAIN’S

GRUESOME PAST

Oakwood Theme Park attracts more than 400,000 visitors every year

Bringing history’s more gruesome elements to life, the UK’s nationwide network of ‘Dungeons’ take the art of story telling to another level and make for an entertaining group trip full of black humour and spooky tales. Based in London, Blackpool, Edinburgh, Warwick Castle and York, each ‘Dungeon’ tour uses high-tech special effects and a cast of actors to create a unique, walkthrough experience visitors can see, hear, touch, smell and feel, as each location’s real life past is re-enacted.

Did you know, for example, that York was once home to such sinister characters as the traitorous plotter Guy Fawkes and the infamous highwayman Dick Turpin?

You’ll get to meet them at The York Dungeon, where you’ll also receive a checkup from the dungeon’s resident plague doctor, find your way out of the Labyrinth of the Lost and learn about the legend of The Golden Fleece. All five ‘Dungeons’ around the UK offer fun for everyone except very young children, with hefty discounts if you book well in advance. See www.thedungeons.com for details.

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attractions and Thomas Land - a must for young railway fans. Its group deals and packages include free parking, selected free entry and meal vouchers – see draytonmanor.co.uk for more details.

If good old-fashioned rides are what your group’s after, Fantasy Island in Skegness will tick all the right boxes.

Right by the seaside on Lincolnshire’s east coast, it offers a mix of the extreme including The Volcano that whisks you up 180-plus feet then drops at speeds of up to 50mph, and more family-friendly log flumes, dodgem rides, bouncy castles and the like.

Details can be found on the attraction’s website - fantasyisland.co.uk - together with details on its popular on-site market, eateries and bars.

FLIP OUT AT CHESSINGTON

Dive into the Year of the Penguins at Chessington World of Adventures Resort, as the Surrey-based attraction is invaded by the Penguins of Madagascar.

Skipper, Kowalski, Rico and Private will descend for an exclusive live show.

Plus, there’s a newly themed penguin ride in Africa Land and the chance to meet some real-life Humboldt penguins in the resort’s brand new walk-through experience.

Groups staying on-site can sleep in special DreamWorks Penguins of Madagascar-themed bedrooms at the Chessington Safari Hotel. While the newly opened Chessington Azteca Hotel offers 69 fully themed bedrooms, offering spectacular views across the park.

Penguins may be the talk of the town, but Chessington World of Adventures

From thrill rides to Thomas Land, there’s fun for everyone at Drayton Manor Theme Park Resort has lots more to offer groups.

For a full list of attractions see www. chessington.com.

Adventures continue across the theme park, which is home to more than 40 rides; plus you can visit Chessington Zoo and its neighbouring Sea Life Centre, enjoy daily shows and activities, and relax in the resort’s restaurants and cafes.

Group deals on day passes and short breaks are available.

If you’d prefer to stay off-site, you’re within the M25 and close to a number of luxury and budget hotels. Local budget chains include Premier Inn (www. premierinn.com) and Travelodge (www.travelodge.co.uk). ■ April 2015 ● Group Travel World

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Port Aventura celebrates its 20th birthday this year

E U R O P E A N T H E M E PA R K S

O R EU N U F W

ith Europe’s top theme parks set to become even bigger and better this summer, now is the ideal time to hop over the Channel and book a group-friendly short break.

No stranger to crowds - with more than four million visitors every year - Efteling Theme Park in the Netherlands has grown to become the Netherlands’ most visited daily attraction, making it one of Europe’s most successful theme parks. In addition to the park itself, the World of Efteling also comprises a hotel, holiday park, golf course, theatre and a wide range of facilities suitable for business events.

Although growing year on year, Efteling remains true to its roots – namely the telling of fairytales, sagas, legends, myths and stories.

With so much on offer, one day at Efteling wouldn’t be enough to fully explore the park’s rides, shows and attractions – especially if you’re travelling from the UK. Its fairytale-themed hotel – The Efteling Hotel – and self-catering accommodation in the Efteling Village Bosrijk, are within easy walking distance of the theme park.

This summer will see the launch of Baron 1898, a rollercoaster that’s not for the faint-hearted due to its 37.5metre free fall.

In addition, Efteling Village Bosrijk is set to acquire hundreds of new beds and new group accommodation in 2015, making it the ideal short break destination for families and thrill-seekers. Find out more at www.efteling.co.uk For the ultimate fairytale experience, www.grouptravelworld.com

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Those travelling further afield could visit GTW’s pick of group-friendly European theme parks, ideal for inclusion in a short break itinerary

take the short coach drive into France to visit one of the world’s best-known theme parks; Disneyland Paris.

A must for families with young children keen to stay in the iconic pink palace that is the Disneyland Hotel, alternative accommodation options are also available, ranging from the high-end Disney’s Hotel New York to the more purse-friendly Disney’s Davy Crockett Ranch. All are located a short walk away, with details of Disneyland’s partner hotels available on the website (www.disneylandparis.co.uk), including the nearby Radisson Blu Hotel.

With rides, shows and attractions to suit all the family, Disneyland Paris is home to two main parks – Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park.

Single day and multi-day tickets are available with options to purchase a ticket and transport deal, ideal for groups preferring to base themselves in Paris.

Budget hotels in the Paris region include the Ibis (www.ibishotel.com) and the Logis (www.logishotels.com).

While you’re in Paris, you could go allout with a trip to Parc Astérix – just 18 miles from Disneyland Paris. Based on the French comic stories, The Adventures of Astérix, the theme park was originally built in the late 1980s and is themed around

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E U R O P E A N T H E M E PA R K S

ABOVE AND TOP RIGHT: Parc Astérix is located close to Paris six ‘worlds’ – ancient Greece, Egypt, the Roman Empire, the Vikings, travel through time and welcome to Gaul. The park has a mix of rides to suit children of all ages, together with fun and entertaining shows.

Within the park itself is the luxurious Hotel des Trois Hiboux, so you can easily turn your group stay into a short break.

The website (www.parcasterix.fr) lists a number of partner hotels to suit all budgets and tastes.

Combined hotel stay-and-park ticket options are available for groups, with discounts if you book early. Find out more on the attraction’s website.

A TASTE OF GERMAN PARK LIFE

Celebrating its 40th birthday in 2015, Europa Park Theme Park and Resort has an array of events planned throughout the summer. Based in Rust (in South West Germany) the park is the largest of its kind in the country and the second most

WEIRD & WONDERFUL GARDALAND PARK RESORT – ITALY Gardaland Park lies on the south eastern banks of Lake Garda and its themed areas are based on the realms of history and geography, space and fantasy.

The park is well suited to groups of teenagers and families and accommodation is available via the Gardaland Hotel, with its fairytale-style architecture and 236 superior rooms, including five junior

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Efteling is home to thrill rides, shows and attractions

#ONLINE

Check out Group Travel World’s online directory for more ideas and inspiration for short breaks at www.grouptravelworld.com/directory

popular theme park resort in Europe, behind the iconic Disneyland Paris.

Home to rollercoasters and water rides – including the huge Atlantica SuperSplash – with thrill rides such as the Swiss Bob Run, the park also has daily shows and vast themed areas to explore.

Visitors can trek across the whole of Europe in just a few hours as they explore the French, English, Greek, Dutch and Italian-themed areas, to name just a few.

This summer, the park is offering group travel organisers 20% off an overnight stay, including breakfast and admission to Europa Park.

Find out more at www.europapark.de,

suites and six adult suites.

The on-site Gardaland Sea Life Aquarium boasts the first themed aquarium in Italy.

For more information visit www.gardaland.it WARNER BROS. MOVIE WORLD – SPAIN Warner Bros. Movie World Madrid or ‘Parque Warner Madrid’ is a theme park that lays 25kilometres south east of Madrid. Now in its 13th year, the vast 700,000hectare park is home to five main themed areas: Hollywood Boulevard, Warner Bros. Studios, DC Superheroes World, Far West

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and Cartoon Village. It also has 36 thrill rides, with daily shows and parades. For more visit parquewarner.co.uk BOUDEWIJN SEAPARK – BELGIUM Belgium’s Boudewijn Seapark is ideal for families with younger children. It’s a marine park and theme park rolled into one with waterthemed attractions, indoor play areas, fairground rides, an animal park and lots more.

Boudewijn Seapark is based near Bruges. For more information visit www. boudewijnseapark.be

Germany’s Europa Park Theme Park and Resort including details regarding the park’s onsite hotels, from the four-star luxury Bell Rock and Colosseo to Europa Park’s great value campsite.

VIVA ESPAÑA

Millions of visitors flock to northern Spain annually to enjoy its stunning scenery and rides, with PortAventura celebrating its 20th birthday in 2015.

Crowned the country’s most visited theme park, PortAventura is situated an hour’s coach ride from Barcelona. Groups can choose to stay in one of the park’s onsite hotels, opt for the budget option and enjoy the facilities available in the caravan park or choose a hotel in nearby Barcelona.

Budget hotel chains in the region include Travelodge (www.travelodge.co.uk) and the Hotel Europark (www.hoteleuropark.com).

The park’s themed areas mix exciting rides with restaurants and shops.

There’s the US-themed Far West, the oriental PortAventura China and the tranquil Mediterránia - reminiscent of a Mediterranean fishing village - as well as a whole host of other global themes, a water park and more. For more information visit www.portaventura.es n www.grouptravelworld.com

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B As the birthplace of Marks & Spencer, Leeds offers something totally unique for group travel 62

ased at the University of Leeds, the M&S Company Archive details M&S’ rich history and features a free exhibition, Marks in Time, where visitors can find out more about the retailer’s origins - from the early Penny Bazaar right through to the innovative products that you see in store today.

Exhibition tours and talks with a member of the M&S Company Archive team can be pre-arranged for group travel visits.

Groups can also take a trip down memory lane and follow the award-winning Heritage Trail to the historic Kirkgate Market in the city centre, which houses an M&S Heritage Stall.

Located just a few metres from the first ever M&S Penny Bazaar, Kirkgate Market is where it all began.

Visitors can finish up their day with a spot of retail therapy at the recently extended M&S Store in Trinity Leeds.

ACTIVITIES TO INCLUDE IN YOUR VISIT MARKS IN TIME

Marks in Time at the M&S Company Archive celebrates the role that M&S has played in peoples’ lives since its launch in

1884. Visitors can explore the development of the company and the impact M&S has had on the social history of Britain, leading the way in innovation, quality and service.

The exhibition features unique artefacts, historic garments, films and photographs from the M&S Company Archive. During the visit, tea and coffee will be made available for each group at no extra cost.

EXPERT TALK

Set within the comfortable surroundings of the Seminar Room at the M&S Company Archive, staff can provide a 30-minute talk on one of the following subjects: l M&S and the War Effort l Looking Good: A Short History of Window Displays at M&S l M&S Doing the Right Thing: From Staff Welfare to Plan A

M&S HERITAGE TRAIL

Winner of the Group Travel Award for Innovation in Tourism in 2013, the M&S Heritage Trail will escort visitors from Marks in Time through the city centre, visiting various sites of interest and concluding at Kirkgate Market. Within Kirkgate Market is the M&S Heritage Stall

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M&S Company Archive’s group offering includes a choice of two, four or five hour itineraries Visit for a glimpse into the life of M&S employees during the war years. From fire watching to fundraising, the M&S war effort touched many people and has left some surprising legacies. The M&S Company Archive will be at the Haworth 1940s Weekend on Saturday, May 16.

RAISE YOUR GLASSES

- situated close to the site of the very first Penny Bazaar - selling various M&S gifts, products and memorabilia.

Kirkgate Market is located in the centre of Leeds; therefore visitors can travel freely to Leeds Trinity, home to the recently extended M&S Leeds store.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Throughout the year, the M&S Company Archive hosts a variety of events and seminars. Why not combine a visit to the M&S Company Archive with one of its special events?

MUSEUMS AT NIGHT – MARKS IN TIME LIVE: AFTER HOURS

For the first time, the M&S Company Archive will be part of the annual UK festival, Museums at Night, where visitors get the unique opportunity to experience after hours events. This national event is free to attend and will take place on Thursday, May 14 from 1830hrs to 2130hrs at Kirkgate Market.

HAWORTH 1940s WEEKEND

Once again, the M&S Company Archive will be part of the amazing Haworth 1940s Weekend. www.grouptravelworld.com

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Join the M&S Company Archive and M&S Wine Expert, Laura Young, for an evening that celebrates M&S’ wonderful wine department. Visitors will be guided through a tasty selection of M&S’ current product range and will find out more about M&S wine. The sampling activity is open to over 18s only and booking is essential as places are limited. Raise Your Glasses is due to be held in June 2015.

Contact the M&S Company Archive for more details.

HERITAGE OPEN DAY

To coincide with its annual Heritage Open Day, the M&S Company Archive is giving visitors the chance to go behind the scenes on a special tour of the archive. Tours will run at regular intervals throughout September 2015, where there will be an opportunity to accompany a guide on the M&S Heritage Trail around Leeds free of charge. The trail will start at the M&S Company Archive and will end at the M&S Heritage Stall in Kirkgate Market.

M&S Heritage Trails will run at 1130hrs, 1300hrs and 1400hrs.

EXCLUSIVELY FOR GROUPS

Marks in Time is an ongoing exhibition that showcases the unique collection at the M&S Company Archive.

It is recommended that groups begin their journey with one of three itineraries, featuring guided exhibition tours, a choice of expert talks and free hot drinks. There is an option to embark on the awardwinning M&S Heritage Trail too. Temporary exhibitions are also hosted on select dates throughout the year.

M&S Company Archive’s group offering includes a choice of two, four or five hour itineraries, a guided exhibition tour, the choice of three expert talks and self-service tea and coffee at no extra charge.

An optional M&S Heritage Trail (selfguided or guided) can be added for the minimal charge of £2 per person.

M&S Heritage Trail has been created in partnership with the University of Leeds and Leeds City Council’s Library Service; with a selection of maps available to help visitors further explore the city.

From Kirkgate Market to Marks in Time at the M&S Company Archive, key sights include M&S’ first store in Cross Arcade. A trail leaflet and map can be collected from the M&S Company Archive or M&S Heritage Stall at Kirkgate Market. For further information email company.archive@ marks-and-spencer.com

SCHOOLS & EDUCATIONAL

The M&S Company Archive Schools Programme is free and offers crosscurricula workshops that explore history, art & design, technology and much more via the collection. Teachers can also access the M&S Company Archive eLearning hub at www.mylearning.org/the-mandscompany-archive.

Housed on the Western Campus at the University of Leeds, all M&S Company Archive workshops take place inside the Michael Marks Building. School and group workshops take place in a multi-purpose function room that includes the use of the interactive Marks in Time exhibition, which occupies the ground floor.

The function room can accommodate up to 55 people and can be used as a dining space for packed lunches.

For more information regarding M&S Company Archive events visit www. marksintime.marksandspencer.com/ home. To book a group visit call 020 8718 2800 or email companyarchive@ marksandspencer.com. n April 2015 l Group Travel World

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Galeries Lafayette in Paris features an impressive glass domed roof.

CHRISTIAN BERTRAND

U K & E U R O P E A N S H O P P I N G D E S T I N AT I O N S

RETAIL THERAPY Holly Cave rounds up the UK & European shopping venues that combine retail therapy with a great day out

T

here’s no doubt that we Brits love to shop and luckily, some of our shopping and leisure centres are located near to brilliant destinations so we can combine a bit of retail therapy with a great day out.

Shopping centres are definitely morphing into all-round entertainment venues.

Some of the biggest and best offer cinemas, sporting experiences, casinos and nightlife within their walls. Yet classic shopping villages in some of the countryside’s best locations remain popular for laidback browsing.

BEST FOR LABEL LOVERS

Bicester Village in Oxfordshire is one of the most popular outlet shopping centres in the UK. With a focus on fashion, you’ll find some of the top brands and designers, with more than 130 stores including Hugo Boss, Jimmy Choo and Ralph Lauren.

The top end of the high street can also be found here with stores such as Cath Kidston, Reiss and Pandora.

A luxury coach service runs to Bicester Village from central London if you don’t have your own mode of transport. If you www.grouptravelworld.com

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have time for more than just shopping, consider exploring the nearby town of Bicester, which lays a 15-minute walk from Bicester Village.

A worthwhile trip while you’re in the area is the National Trust property of Waddesdon Manor – a grand mansion in the style of a 19th century French chateau.

Lakeside Village near Doncaster is extremely group-friendly.

There is a coach drop off point and coach parking available. Coach drivers who report to security at the Centre Management Office Las Arenas in Barcelona is a former bullfighting arena with an original ornate facade

upon arrival will receive a £5 voucher if they bring 20 or more passengers and stay for two hours or more. The small but perfectly formed site has more than 45 high street favourites, offering up to 60% off recommended retail prices including M&S, Next, Clarks, Bench and Jeff Banks.

There are lots of attractions in and around Doncaster if you’d like to extend your trip.

These include Doncaster Museum and Art Gallery, the Air Museum, Yorkshire Wildlife Park and Potteric Carr Nature Reserve.

BEST FOR FUN LOVERS

Set to open in Summer 2015 at the NEC, Birmingham’s Resorts World will be so much more than just a shopping mall. Facilities at the £150million centre will include a huge four-star hotel and spa, an 11-screen cinema, a conference centre, casino, restaurants, bars and a designer outlet centre housing 50 stores. For now, Birmingham’s Bullring still draws shoppers into the city centre with retail’s star player Selfridges taking centre stage.

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Birmingham’s Bullring still draws shoppers into the city centre with retail’s star player Selfridges taking centre stage

Bicester Village is located near to the town of Bicester, offering groups more than just a shopping experience Classy restaurants and bars such as Browns, Café Rouge and Jamie’s Italian keep customers coming back for more.

There’s also lots of health and beauty venues, so you can team your shopping trip with a spot of TLC. Thinking of travelling further afield to the vibrant Spanish city of Barcelona? Then you’ll want to add Las Arenas to your to-do list.

This former bullfighting arena still has its original ornate façade, but there’s now a very different kind of entertainment on offer inside, with Spanish and international stores and an organic market. The brightly coloured, high-tech interior covers three floors and a panoramic rooftop – accessible by external glass lifts – that offers amazing views over the city.

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BEST FOR CULTURE VULTURES

Boutique shopping should definitely come with a spot of culture and visual beauty and luckily, some of the UK’s prettiest places offer fantastic retail opportunities too. The Shambles in York is just one location.

The narrow, twisting lanes that weave through the centre of the city boast the best-preserved medieval streets in the world.

Originally, it was filled with butchers’ shops and slaughterhouses and eagleeyed visitors can still spot some of the meat hooks on the shop fronts. Today, the independent boutiques and teashops are less smelly and a lot smarter. Top picks include the fudge and chocolate stores,

leather producers and jewellers. Hop over the Channel and the iconic Galeries Lafayette in Paris is the perfect example of boutique shopping. This beautiful department store in the centre of the world’s most romantic city dates from 1893. The architecture of the building is stunning and it’s a wonder to shop as you gaze up at the impressive glass domed roof. It’s also worth wandering past at night-time when it’s illuminated to great effect. Eager brides-to-be will adore the dedicated wedding boutique, plus there are weekly half-hour fashion shows worth putting into your diary if you plan to pay a visit.

They are held every Friday afternoon at 1500hrs in the Salon Opéra on the Coupole’s 7th floor. Reservations are recommended.

BEST FOR SENIORS

Modern shopping centres with their game arcades and trendy labels aren’t for everyone. Luckily, there are plenty of brilliant destinations that are perfect for more mature shoppers. Boundary Mill Stores has five locations across the UK: Colne, Grantham, Newcastle, Sheffield and Walsall. You’ll find fashion, gifts and homewares from many well-loved brands at outlet prices. The company won Best Shopping Retail Outlet at the Group Leisure Awards 2014 and each store is well located for groups to extend their visit to other local attractions. Each site can arrange tours of the area on your own coach,

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U K & E U R O P E A N S H O P P I N G D E S T I N AT I O N S

Istanbul Cevahir mall covers six floors with a few hundred shops featuring international brands, eateries and entertainment venues for all

either before or after shopping time. From Grantham, you could call in at Grimsthorpe Castle and Pureland Japanese Gardens or take a cruise along the River Newark.

The 13th century Crook Hall and Gardens is a popular attraction close to the Newcastle store and from Sheffield, many head to the Botanical Gardens. After shopping at Walsall, why not visit RAF Museum Cosford or the Walsall Leather Museum? Dedicated coach co-ordinators for each site will help you plan your visit. l SEE PAGE (78) FOR AN INTERVIEW WITH CLAIRE MARTIN, COACH & EVENTS MANAGER AT BOUNDARY MILLS STORES, COLNE There are plenty more retail destinations around the UK that combine shopping with heritage attractions. Masson Mills Shopping Village - at the Museum and Conference Centre in the Peak District - is just one great choice. The refurbished red brick mill was first built in 1783 and overlooks the River Derwent. When it comes to shopping, you’ll find 60 different retailers and the site also has a restaurant that serves amazing breakfasts and great value afternoon teas alongside lots of

Selfridge’s at Bullring in Birmingham features a characteristic design other snacks. The on-site working textile museum welcomes groups with daily machinery demonstrations and tours.

There’s plenty of parking available for booked and non-booked groups. Plus, coach drivers can enjoy free shortbread!

The venue also plays host to regular swing dances on the first Friday of each month.

Nearly 200 dancers are in attendance, with a fantastic live band and supper included in the ticket price of £5. Dance classes are also held on Monday evenings.

BEST FOR FAMILIES

Bicester Village runs a luxury coach service from central London www.grouptravelworld.com

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At Xscape in Milton Keynes, you can ski and shop in one place.

The Snozone Centre has the biggest real snow slope in the country, stretching 170metres from top to bottom, with a novices’ slope plonked beside it. The venue is a great place for beginners to test their skills on skis or snowboards.

Plus, families can participate in activities together, such as ice sliding and sledging.

There’s also Europe’s first purpose-built body flying tunnel Airkix, where you can simulate the feeling of sky-diving, plus rock climbing walls, bowling and a multiplex cinema. Throughout the school holidays, free family entertainment keeps the kids occupied. Xscape’s shops are

focused on sports and outdoor activities, with retailers including Ellis Brigham, O’Neill and Trespass.

The centre also has loads of familyfriendly restaurants on-site, making it the perfect destination for outdoorsy types to prepare for their next adventure.

Further north, Gateshead’s intu Metrocentre is a firm family favourite with over 340 stores and restaurants.

There’s a 12-screen cinema with IMAX screen, which has special family screenings, plus 18 10-pin bowling lanes, a soft play area and arcades.

There’s a lovely outdoor play area where kids can get some fresh air and exercise and even a Maths Trail, which can be downloaded from the attraction’s website in advance. During the school holidays, the Metrognomes perform free shows for smallest family members to get involved with.

Heading abroad? Istanbul is a feast for the senses for adults and children alike and the city’s enormous Istanbul Cevahir mall covers six floors with a few hundred shops featuring international brands, eateries and entertainment venues for all.

Kids will enjoy the children’s cinema, bowling lanes, surfing simulator, miniature rollercoaster and zombie experience. n April 2015 l Group Travel World

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25/03/2015 17:12

A C C O M M O D AT I O N / / H O S T E L S

A FRESH LOOK AT

HOSTELS GTW explores the UK’s more quirky and unusual accommodation options that provide the ideal base for a group trip to Wales or abroad THE SAFEHOUSE HOSTEL, CARDIFF

The Safehouse Hostel opened in March 2015, positioned in the centre of Cardiff and based in an attractive Victorian building that is graced with plenty of listed features.

The Safehouse Hostel aims to achieve fivestar status, though promises that while accommodation facilities improve, the price won’t increase.

Its attention to detail and customer service is what sets this hostel apart.

More than one member of staff is always available on reception, handy if someone in your group requires assistance. Coffee is served 24 hours a day and guests can relax in the café area. If you don’t fancy exploring Cardiff’s many bars and restaurants, there’s a self-catering kitchen on the ground floor.

With emphasis on comfort, The Safehouse Hostel’s guest facilities continue on the first floor with its residents’ lounge, complete with books, free Wi-Fi and board games.

On every floor, there’s a communal washroom with showers, sinks and toilets, in addition to a private shower room.

The Safehouse Hostel consists of ‘bunk rooms,’ where all bunk beds have a full-depth memory foam mattress and built-in USB ports, alongside soon-tobe-completed double bedrooms. These will be completed in summer 2015 in preparation for September’s Rugby World Cup, as the hostel is located near to Wales Millennium Centre. Informative staff offer guided walking tours of Cardiff and soon plan to provide bikes to rent too. They’re especially keen for groups who come to Cardiff to enjoy the city as much as they do and aim to do everything in their power to help GTOs explore Cardiff and the whole of South Wales. For more information visit www.safehousehostel.co.uk

THE WYE VALLEY CANOE CENTRE, BRECON BEACONS

Described as a ‘posh bunkhouse,’ The Wye Valley Canoe Centre is based in the 70

The Safehouse Hostel in Cardiff officially opened in March 2015

... and is graced with plenty of listed features

The Safehouse Hostel is based in an attractive Victorian building...

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Brecon Beacons and tries very hard to blow any preconceptions you may have of hostel living out of the water. Catering for 14 people on its mezzanine floor, this converted chapel even has a helter skelter where guests can slip down freely from floor to floor if they don’t fancy taking the stairs. The slide offers a sharp exit from the huge sofas on the top level down to the ground level, adding a playful twist to your average group holiday.

The Wye Valley Canoe Centre can accommodate a maximum group size of 20.

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A C C O M M O D AT I O N / / H O S T E L S A stay at The Wye Valley Canoe Centre costs from £1,070 for two nights for a group of 14, with offers available for midweek bookings. Why not organise your stay during Hay Festival, which takes place annually between May and June?

Alternate activities available throughout the year include guided walks from the bunkhouse, horse riding, go karting, indoor climbing, canoeing and cycling, which can be arranged locally.

Find out more at www.wyevalleycanoes. co.uk/bunkhouse

PLAS CURIG HOSTEL, SNOWDONIA

Plas Curig Hostel commands an impressive position in the heart of the Snowdonia National Park in North Wales. This charming former Youth Hostel Association (YHA) site has been stealing the hearts of many an intrepid traveller since 1945.

Plas Curig Hostel has been familyrun since 2010 and now offers clean, comfortable, homely accommodation ideal for groups seeking to experience the beauty of Snowdonia.

This luxury hostel offers the best of both worlds; modern amenities with relaxed comfort. Everyone is welcome and the hostel also offers dog-friendly accommodation.

Plas Curig Hostel houses a variety of room options from its ‘Bunk Rooms,’ which sleep four, to larger rooms that sleep eight. Each ‘Bunk Room’ has built in bunk beds with curtains for privacy, a comfy mattress, cosy hypoallergenic bedding and a warm Welsh wool blanket. Double, twin rooms and family rooms are also available, and children younger than two are welcomed with cots free of charge. None of the rooms are en-suite, but there are private shower rooms with a shower, toilet and basin.

‘Bunk Rooms’ cost from £22.50 per person per night, with the exclusive hire of all 59 beds available from £1,000 per night. Find out more at www.snowdoniahostel.co.uk

Plas Curig Hostel boasts comfy accommodation in the heart of Snowdonia National Park FURTHER AFIELD

GENERATOR HOSTEL, PARIS

Helter skelter at the Wye Valley Canoe Centre adds a playful twist

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Generator, the contemporary brand that’s transforming the European hostel scene with its hip urban properties, has now branched out to Paris. Its latest hostel, located in the city’s fashionable 10th Arrondissement, will be the largest Generator to date, housing 916 beds.

Rooms range from en-suite shared rooms from €25 per bed, to private rooms starting at €98 per room. There are also premium twins on the eighth floor, with private balconies overlooking the treetops of Place du Colonel Fabien.

“Paris ranks with London and Berlin as one of the top three youth travel city destinations in the world,” says Carl Michel, Executive Chairman at Generator.

“However affordable, centrally located accommodation has always been in short supply.”

“With its 916 beds, Generator Paris will allow visitors to see and experience the best of the city. Our customer philosophy is firmly anchored in providing guests with an authentic experience in each of our cities and we proudly welcome Paris as our 10th location.”

The Paris hostel – similar to all other Generators - evolves the hostel concept into a lifestyle experience for discerning travellers. Using local produce whenever possible, the hostel’s food includes traditional French dishes alongside Generator classics such as burgers, salads and artisan sandwiches. French wines and local beer Galia feature in the drinks menu, alongside a list of Paris-inspired cocktails.

The property includes a welcome lobby, a vibrant bar, a restaurant with gardenfacing veranda, a spacious chill out area and a spectacular rooftop terrace with sunset views of Montmartre and Sacré Coeur. Find out more at www. generatorhostels.com n www.grouptravelworld.com

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UKINBOUND NEWS

By Amy O’Donovan, Events & Commercial Manager, UKinbound

The latest from UKinbound

H

ave you seen the UKinbound Members Directory? We launched our brand new A5-size Members’ Directory at the 2015 UKinbound Annual Convention and all our members should have received their copy in the post. Let us know if you haven’t, and we will ensure that you get your copy.

UKinbound were delighted to work alongside Morris Visitor Publications to produce a smaller and more compact directory. We hope that our members like it as much as we do!

On February 25, I attended Explore GB, VisitBritain’s first flagship event providing British and Irish tourism suppliers and destinations with an invaluable opportunity to meet and do business. Explore GB was held at Ascot Racecourse, where 250 suppliers met with 250 international buyers. It was an extremely impressive event, with lots of business taking place through B2B appointments.

That evening, Sally Balcombe, CEO of VisitBritain, announced that Liverpool would be hosting Explore GB 2016, which was met with great enthusiasm.

I later enjoyed an evening of networking and met many current members and also some potential new members.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve enjoyed a trip to Canterbury to

Explore GB was held at Ascot racecourse back in February 2015 www.grouptravelworld.com

075_GTW_Apr15_UK Inbound.indd 75

meet with VisitKent ahead of our collaboration with the Tourism Society’s Symposium. We are hosting our usual B2B workshop on Monday, June 1, and we are inviting all our tour operator members to Eastwell Manor Hotel, where the workshop will take place.

Following this, there will be three different familiarisation trips heading out all over the region.

Tourism Society’s Symposium will take place the following day. Please contact me if you are interested in attending either event. Following the success of our collaboration at Liverpool in 2014, Tourism Society’s Symposium promises to be another quality event.

I’ve also enjoyed a flying visit to Llandudno in North Wales,

staying at the Quay Hotel & Spa, where I met with Judith Newton from VisitWales to plan a Discover Wales workshop, which is due to take place later in the year.

While there, I visited the beautiful picturesque village of Conwy and the Bodnant Welsh Food Centre. We hope to host an element of our Discover Wales workshop at the centre as it is located in the heart of the Conwy Valley, surrounded by the stunning scenery of Snowdonia.

Our Annual Summer Ball Gala Dinner is scheduled to take place on Thursday, June 18 at Altitude, Milbank Tower and tickets are now on sale. The event is open to members and non-members, so please feel free to contact me. ■

Eastwell Manor Hotel will host the B2B workshop on Monday, June 1

KEEP IN CONTACT WITH US!

Events Calendar Schedule our events in your diary with our Events Calendar www.ukinbound.org/ events/events-calendar

Follow us on Twitter Join us on Twitter and check out our news updates @UKinbound

Become a member For inquiring about membership, email info@ukinbound.org

April 2015 ● Group Travel World

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25/03/2015 15:46

For Group Travel Organisers, a page with useful tips, tourism gossip and travel product reviews

GTO GRAPEVINE

Best of Britain & Ireland 2015 attracts 2,361 visitors Plus, dates announced for Best of Britain & Ireland 2016 Best of Britain & Ireland took place at the NEC Birmingham on March 11-12, 2015, and featured a fresh look following new ownership by Diversified Communications UK. The two-day travel trade show saw 250 exhibiting companies and welcomed an estimated 2,361 industry professionals from across Britain and Ireland.

Those exhibiting included Alfa Travel, British Airways Holidays, Daish’s Holidays, Epsom Coaches, Expedia, laterooms.com, Saga Holidays, Shearings Holidays, Thomas Cook, Travelzoo and Woods Travel. Alongside was the seminar theatre, supported

by The Tourism Society. Here,

Tourism Society Symposium The Tourism Society Symposium takes place in Kent on Monday, June 1 and Tuesday, June 2, and is expected to bring together more than 200 leading tourism professionals. 2015’s topic is Connecting To The Future and will examine sustainable inbound and outbound growth through debates on key

UPCOMING EVENTS RHS Malvern Spring Festival May 7-10, 2015 www.rhs.org.uk RHS Chelsea Flower Show May 19-23, 2015 www.rhs.org.uk

76

visitors were treated to an exclusive look at Resorts World Birmingham; the UK’s first integrated destination complex scheduled to open in summer 2015. GTW attended Changing The Face of Birmingham at 1145hrs on Thursday, March 12, where Robin Sherwood, Commercial Marketing Manager for Resorts World Birmingham, gave an informative presentation about the complex, which will be housed in Hall 5 at NEC Birmingham.

Resorts World is part of the Genting Group, with its Birmingham branch the first European Resorts World constructed.

Further sites include Singapore, Genting (Malaysia), Manila and New York City (Casino). Resorts World

Birmingham is a leisure and entertainment complex offering outlet shopping opportunities in the Midlands. Resorts World Birmingham will house approximately 50 retail units, including the largest John Lewis outside London. Not traditional shopping centre fare, Resorts World Birmingham will also include an Asian themed spa and separate private gaming suites accessibly by invitation only.

Resorts World Birmingham took approximately two years to construct and is situated adjacent to one of the largest concert venues in the UK. Groups especially could tailor a weekend itinerary to Resorts World Birmingham, with bookings currently open for the five-star Genting Hotel. For more information visit www. resortsworldbirmingham.co.uk.

Best of Britain & Ireland will return to NEC Birmingham on March 16-17, 2016. www. bobievent.com

infrastructure developments, including transport and technology. Confirmed speakers include Sally Balcombe, CEO at VisitBritain, Louise Dando from English Heritage, Wayne Hemingway, Design Consultant at Dreamland and Malcolm Bell, Head of Tourism at Visit Cornwall. The Symposium is hosted by Visit Kent, has been arranged by The Tourism Society and is sponsored by Ashford Borough Council.

Sandra Matthews Marsh MBE,

Tourism Society Chairman and Chief Executive at Visit Kent, said: “The Symposium is an invaluable resource for anyone involved in or with tourism, and we are delighted to be working on this event in partnership with Ashford Borough Council and all the other organisations who are supporting it.” Tickets for Tourism Society Symposium are currently available, with early bird rates valid until May 1, 2015. www.tourismsociety.org

Eastwell Manor Hotel www.ukinbound.org/events/regionaldiscover-workshops Group Travel Awards June 5, 2015 Park Lane Hilton, London grouptravelawards.com BBC Gardeners’ World Live June 11-14, 2015 www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com Royal Ascot 2015 June 16-29, 2015, Ascot Racecourse www.ascot.co.uk

East Lancashire Railway 1940s Weekend May 23-24, 2015 East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

UKinbound Summer Ball 2015 June 18, 2015, Altitude, London www.ukinbound.org/events/summer-ball

UKinbound Discover Kent Monday, June 1, 2015

RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show June 30-July 5, 2015

● April 2015

076_GTW_APR15_GTO Grapevine.indd 76

Hampton Court Palace www.rhs.org.uk Black Country Weekend July 11-12, 2015 Black Country Living Museum www.bclm.co.uk 10th Birthday Fun Day July 19, 2015 www.monkey-forest.com RHS Flower Show Tatton Park July 22-26, 2015 www.rhs.org.uk Shrewsbury Flower Show 2015 August 14-15, 2015 www.shrewsburyflowershow.org.uk Great For Groups North September 2, 2015 Lancashire County Cricket Club

#COMPETITION WIN TICKETS TO THE 2015 BATTLE PROMS The Battle Proms are set within the grounds of some of the UK’s most celebrated stately homes including Blenheim Palace and Highclere Castle, featured in ITV’s Downton Abbey.

The 2015 Battle Proms will mark the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo at Blenheim Palace on Saturday, July 11, with 150 re enactors participating in a skirmish as part of the Road to Waterloo programme of events, organised by the Napoleonic Association.

In conjunction with the article on pages (16) and (17), GTW is offering one reader a top prize of four tickets, with a pair of tickets available for each of the three runners up.

To enter, you simply need to answer the following question: What year did the Battle of Waterloo take place?

A: 1815 B: 1215 C: 2015 To enter, email your answer to amy. moore@grouptravelworld.com with ‘GTW Competition’ as the subject line.

Closing date is April 20, 2015

www.greatforgroups.co.uk/north Wildlife Weekend September 19-20, 2015 www.monkey-forest.com Stamford Georgian Festival September 25-27, 2015 www.visitstamford.com/ georgianfestival Great For Groups Central October 1, 2015 www.greatforgroups.co.uk/central Conservation Week October 12-18, 2015 www.monkey-forest.com Group Leisure Travel & Trade Show October 22, 2015 NEC Birmingham www.leisureshow.com

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Discounts available for series bookings To advertise contact Julie Agius 01733 293245 julie.agius@grouptravelworld.com

C L A S S I F I E D Kent

Scottish Borders

Monmouthshire

Rochester Cathedral Tea Rooms Located in the 18th century Deanery and open throughout the year between 8.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 4.30pm on Sunday for breakfast, light refreshments, lunches, afternoon tea and take-away.

01634 810076 The College, The Precinct, Rochester, Kent ME1 1SU www.rochestercathedral.org

Wales THE NATIONAL

Abergavenny Market

NP7 5HD

Open Tuesday Friday and Saturday Flea Market Every Wednesday www.abergavennymarket.co.uk For a full list of our markets and events Craft – Antique - and Car boot Sales Please Phone Geoff or Adam on 01873735811

Caldicot Market

Phone 01239 710980 www.coraclemuseum.co.uk

Monmouth Bridge Market

London

Every Friday and Saturday

Shire HallMarket Every Saturday Phone Darren on 07825 761900

Somerset

West Somerset Railway

©MTN/1079496/150

GUIDED TOURS FOR GROUPS WHICH INCLUDES A VISIT TO THE 17thC MILL SET BESIDE THE SALMON LEAP FALLS. COACH PARKING IN VILLAGE TEA ROOMS NEXT DOOR

Open Every Tuesday and Saturday Phone Mac on 07764 362599

Experience The Household Cavalry Story in London’s Royal Heartland

Between Bishops Lydeard (near Taunton) & Minehead Download our Heritage Hunter App before you visit!

20 miles of Steam Train travel through the Quantock Hills and along the Exmoor Coast.

En route trains call at historic Watchet, Washford (for Cleeve Abbey), medieval Dunster with its castle, before arriving at the seaside of Minehead.

Lots of Special Events available for all the family, including Catering Specials.

For added value why not try one of our attraction combined expresses to Dunster Castle, or Hestercombe Gardens.

For bookings call 01643 704996 or visit www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk

Open daily from 10am The Household Cavalry Museum Horse Guards Whitehall London SW1A 2AX Tel: 020 7930 3070

www.householdcavalrymuseum.co.uk

For more information and rates please contact Julie Agius on 01733 293245 julie.agius@grouptravelworld.com Please send all copy information to adsproduction@grouptravelworld.com

I N T E R V I E W / / U P C LO S E A N D P E R S O N A L

Claire Martin

COACH & EVENTS MANAGER AT BOUNDARY MILL STORES A warm welcome from the team at Boundary Mill

www.boundarymill.co.uk CLAIRE MARTIN has worked within the travel industry for over 12 years and in December 2012, became the Coach & Events Manager at Boundary Mills’ flagship store in Colne, Lancashire.

Boundary Mill Stores provide the perfect opportunity for a day of retail therapy for groups irrespective of the weather and there is a choice of five stores to visit: Colne, Grantham, Newcastle, Sheffield and Walsall.

Each store offers big brands in fashion and home with up to 70% off and is conveniently located next to major routes. All stores offer complimentary coach parking in addition to eating establishments that can comfortably accommodate groups.

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l April 2015

DESCRIBE THE BEST GROUP TRIP YOU’VE BEEN ON AND WHY? A walking holiday where we stayed at a youth hostel in Yorkshire. The hostel was featured in the Victoria Wood sketch “Val De Ree.” We saw some fantastic scenery whilst walking at Malham, Ingleborough and up Pen-yGhent. The experience allowed group members to learn a lot about each other, particularly due to the mixture of weather conditions that tested us during the week.

DESCRIBE THE WORST GROUP TRIP YOU’VE BEEN ON AND WHY? I have vivid memories of one group holiday in a previous role when two passengers went missing during an excursion. Everyone on the coach was advised what time they needed to be back, but when the driver did the head count two of his passengers were missing. After 45 minutes of unsuccessful searching including the involvement of the tourist information centre, police and local hospital, the driver had no choice but to continue with the journey. Later that day, the passengers arrived back at their hotel completely unaware of the concern and angst caused. They had simply decided to make their own way back to the hotel in a taxi without telling anyone.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE UK DESTINATION FOR A GROUP DAY OUT? It would have to be Chester, because it offers something for everyone and everything is easily accessible. There is nothing better than walking around

everything runs smoothly certainly makes for an enjoyable experience.

Boundary Mill, Colne

the city walls, along the River Dee and back through Grosvenor Park.

You can time your trip to ensure you arrive at The Cross to see the Town Crier, before spending the afternoon enjoying retail therapy in the Rows or visiting Chester Cathedral.

WHAT DO YOU ALWAYS PACK? My camera, comfortable shoes and a good book.

WHAT DO YOU ALWAYS LEAVE OUT? I like to be prepared so struggle to pack ‘light,’ however being an eternal optimist I often leave out an umbrella.

WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES A GOOD GROUP EXPERIENCE? Due to my previous experience, combined with working with organisers and operators on a daily basis in my current position, I would have to say preparation. Building rapport with the organiser or operator helps to obtain knowledge about the group and organise an appropriate itinerary.

Providing information and details in advance of the trip and ensuring that

WHAT MAKES BOUNDARY MILL STORES THE PERFECT DESTINATION FOR GROUP VISITS? Each store has a dedicated team that takes care of groups, providing a warm and informative ‘meet & greet’ service upon arrival, in addition to availability throughout a visit to ensure it operates smoothly.

To thank groups for choosing Boundary Mill Stores, we provide excellent incentives for the driver and organiser. Valerie Jeffrey and I are the perfect team to look after any groups visiting the Colne store.

We can design itineraries that cater to individual requirements, including the fantastic coach party meals at Banny’s Fish & Chip Restaurant or afternoon tea at Bannisters Restaurant so everyone can recharge their batteries during the shopping spree. The store location lends itself to ‘Inclusive Tours’ that we offer including scenic guided tours, a sailing with Foulridge Canal Cruises or a demonstration at The Chocolate House. I also organise a number of special events for Bannisters Restaurant including Floral Demonstrations, which particularly appeal to our local flower clubs.

The personal and quality service that we provide sets us apart from our competitors, confirmed last year when we were a finalist in the Group Travel and Lancashire Tourism Awards, in addition to being voted ‘Best Shopping Retail Outlet’ at the Group Leisure Awards 2014. n www.grouptravelworld.com

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Experience

WOBURN ABBEY AND GARDENS

Group Rates Guided Tours Gift Shop and Tea Room

01525 290333 groups@woburn.co.uk www.woburnabbey.co.uk FIND US ON

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