Escape Issue 22

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IN THIS ISSUE

16 ER 20 SUMM

REACHING ACROSS OUR NETWORK – THIS IS YOUR ESCAPE ROUTE

ILLUSTRATION: KERRY HYNDMAN. ISSY ILUSTRATION: WESLEY ROBINS

TURN THE PAGE...

09 NEXT STOP Everything you might need to plan the months ahead, including top shows, family days out and nature retreats 14 summer in the city From the sublime to the ridiculous, September Withers brings you the perfect London staycation with her pick of the summer’s best events and attractions 23 roald dahl It’s 100 years since the birth of everyone’s favourite children’s author, so we visit some of the key places in Roald Dahl’s life 29 READERS’ survey Take part in our readers’ survey and be in with a chance of winning an iPad mini

FIND US ONLINE www.gwr.com

31 WHY WE LOVE… Fab architecture, historic hostelries and the perfect place to take a punt – just some of the reasons we adore Oxford 32 on yOUr bike!

Take the ride of a lifetime with our guide to the best cycle routes across the GWR network 40 top fare Mitch Tonks on his pick of the South West’s finest and friendliest food emporiums 43 THE GUIDE Our handy guide will tell you all you need to know about travelling with Great Western Railway 50 GIVE ME FIVE Puppeteer Paul Zerdin discusses success in the states

FACEBOOK.COM/GWRUK

OUR 2FOR1 PICKS

st paul’s cathedral Visit Sir Christopher Wren’s baroque masterpiece that was 35 years in the making

weymouth SEa life park Crocodiles, turtles and lots more make an adventure perfect for the whole family

Shrek’s adventure Take a ride through Far Far Away and meet all your favourite characters, including Donkey

how to get your 2for1 Take advantage of savings on attractions and days out by turning to PAGE 46

TWITTER.COM/GWRUK

WWW.GWR.COM escape | 3

8-10 July . RAF Fairford . Swindon

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WELCOME

16 ER 20 SUMM

Get on your bike and explore this summer Editorial enquiries

Editor Dan Panes

escapeeditor@thinkpublishing.co.uk

Managing Editor

Andrew Cattanach andrew@thinkpublishing.co.uk 0141 375 0481 Assistant Editor

Alec Mackenzie alec.mackenzie@thinkpublishing.co.uk 0141 375 0489 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Jonathan McIntosh Design Matthew Ball, Michael Brady John Pender Sub-editor Andrew Littlefield Advertising Sales

Molly Matthews molly.matthews@thinkpublishing.co.uk Publisher John Innes john.innes@thinkpublishing.co.uk Published on behalf of GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY by think

25 Chapel Street London NW1 5DH 020 3771 7200 thinkpublishing.co.uk

GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY

Head Office, Milford House 1 Milford Street, Swindon SN1 1HL gwr.com

FUN AND ADVENTURES CLOSE TO HOME

M

any of us are currently looking to jet off abroad for fun in the sun over the summer, but here at GWR we know there’s a wealth of brilliant breaks, day trips and world class attractions right on our doorsteps, or at least a short train journey away.

In this issue of Escape we gather together some great staycation ideas to be found across the network. City slickers will particularly appreciate our summer guide to London on page 14, which goes beyond the beer garden to bring you al fresco theatre, food, drink and even hot tub cinema-going.

Book lovers young and old will probably know that this year marks the centenary of Roald Dahl’s birth, and to celebrate we embark on a trip to the places that inspired his stories.

You’ll find that he led a life every bit

as fantastic as his many characters.

Another freewheeling tour sees us take five unique bike rides around the National Cycle Network. Whether you fancy pedaling past apple orchards or powering across mountain trails, there’s a route to suit everyone.

To top all that off we speak to the amazing ventriloquist Paul Zerdin and we also want to hear from you, too. Turn to page 29 to tell us what you think of Escape and you could win an iPad mini.

Wherever the summer takes you we hope you find your place in the sun!

Dan Panes Editor

WIN A CULTURE FILLED DAY IN CARDIFF BAY TURN TO PAGE 11

© 2016 Great Western Railway. All rights reserved. Every reasonable endeavour has been made to find and contact the copyright owners of the works included in this newspaper.

However, if you believe a copyright work has been included without your permission, please contact the publishers. Views of contributors and advertisers do not necessarily reflect the policy of Great Western Railway or those of the publishers. All material correct at time of going to press.

www.gwr.com

escape | 5

Z

we’ll takE you there

FANTASY ISLAND

Enjoy the coast with the most this summer by paying a visit to St Catherine’s Island, just a stone’s throw away from the beautiful Welsh town of Tenby. The great granite and limestone Victorian fort that dominates the isle was only reopened to the public in 2015, having being closed for decades. Make sure that you don’t get marooned there as, being a tidal island, access is limited to just three hours after high tide.

WHAT St Catherine's Island and Fort WHERE Tenby, Wales WHEN Open most weekends and every day during the peak season.

Visit tenbyisland.co.uk for details

FACT!

CREDIT IN 3MM BOX ALIGNED BOTTOM

In 1968 the fort was turned into a zoo and housed animals including squirrel monkeys, bush babies and porcupines

6 | escape

www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk

CREDIT IN 3MM BOX ALIGNED TOP

www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk

escape | 7

Š PAUL STRAND ARCHIVE, APERTURE FOUNDATION

Next Stop

under the skin Paul Strand is considered one of the greatest photographers of the 20th century. He is best known for a series of projects that saw him visit rural areas around the world, including Ghana and the Outer Hebrides, taking portraits of the locals.

Check out the V&A's major new Strand retrospective, Photography and Film for the 20th Century, and experience the world as it once was.

WHERE V&A, London WHEN until 3 july NEAREST TUBE south kensington

Paul Strand: Young Boy, Gondeville, Charente, France, 1951

YOUR GUIDE TO GREAT EVENTS HAPPENING JUST ALONG THE TRACKS www.gwr.com

escape | 9

NEXT STOP

Thrilling theatre

Classic characters from the Postgate and Firmin team

Classic tales with a dark side

OF MICE AND MEN Cardiff New Theatre, 3–7 May Oxford Playhouse, 10–14 May

John Steinbeck’s novel of the Great Depression comes to the stage. newtheatrecardiff.co.uk oxfordplayhouse.com

FRANKENSTEIN Royal Opera House, London 4–27 May

Mary Shelley’s gothic masterpiece is brought back to life in a full-length ballet

by Liam Scarlett. roh.org.uk

THE CARETAKER The Old Vic, London Until 14 May

Timothy Spall stars in this production of Harold Pinter’s tragicomic and claustrophobic play.

WHERE V&A Museum of Childhood WHEN UNTIL 9 OCTOBER NEAREST TUBE BETHNAL GREEN

oldvictheatre.com

best of the rest 10 | escape

Clangers, Bagpuss & Co Back when the world was a simpler place, children would be entertained by telly programmes featuring corpulent cats and whistle-voiced space shrews. Head over to the V&A Museum of Childhood to meet some of these classic characters created

by Oliver Postgate and Peter Firmin, including The Clangers, Bagpuss and, of course, Noggin the Nog.

^ sport

ENGLISH NATIONAL SURFING CHAMPIONSHIPS Newquay, 30 April–2 May Board games

^ theatre

1984 Mayflower Theatre, Southampton, 4–7 May Northern Ballet goes toe to toe with Big Brother

^ event

RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW 2016 24–28 May See Britain in full bloom at this perennial day out

^ exhibition

PERFORMING FOR THE CAMERA Tate Modern, until 12 June Art and performance examined

^ sport

GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED 23–26 June Race over to this historic motorsport get-together

^ exhibition

WALK. STOP. WALK Royal Cornwall Museum, until 30 June Environmental art

by Tony Plant

www.gwr.com

COMPETITION Make up your mind at Sharpham House

Sharpham House Two peaceful packages are available at Sharpham House for those looking to combine mindfulness with the great outdoors.

The Coming to Our Senses package includes three- and five-night mindfulness and nature retreats for men and women, while there is also a three-night women-only woodland retreat available. All the retreats will help you to get away from your cares and worries through the experience of guided meditations, medicine walks, foraging and wild food feasts.

TO BOOK call 01803 732542 or visit sharphamtrust.org GETTING THERE: take GWR train TO TOTNES STATION and then a taxi

Red carpet rolled out for Aladdin

Aladdin Following on from the massive success of The Lion King comes another stage adaptation of a classic animated Disney film. As the song says, it's a 'Whole New World' to enjoy.

WHERE pRINCE EDWARD THEATRE, LONDON

Mandela's long walk to freedom

Win tickets and a hotel stay for the mandela trilogy Wales Millennium Centre and Cape Town Opera are delighted to present the UK and Ireland tour of Mandela Trilogy, which opens at Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff on 24 August 2016, before travelling to London, Southampton, Dublin, Birmingham and Salford.

The amazing life of Nelson Mandela is brought vividly to the stage in a large-scale tribute.

Told in three parts by a cast and orchestra of more than 60 South African performers, the music matches the vastly different phases of Mandela’s journey from freedom fighter to president.

The Prize A pair of tickets for Mandela Trilogy at 7.30pm on Friday 26 August at Wales Millennium Centre. The prize includes a three-course pre-show meal for two in the Centre’s restaurant and an overnight stay at Future Inn, in the heart of Cardiff Bay.

Future Inn

How to Enter To be in with a chance of winning, answer this simple question: Q: Which city is Wales Millennium Centre located in?

A: Cardiff B: Swansea C: Newport ENTER AT

gwr.com/Mandela CLOSING DATE FOR ENTRIES

15 July FOR MORE INFORMATION

wmc.org.uk/Mandela

WHEN OPENS IN MAY NEAEST TUBE LEICESTER SQUARE

^ exhibition

^

THE STORY OF CHILDREN’S TELEVISION M Shed, Bristol, 2 July–25 September Small-screen stars on show

SARAH MILLICAN Various venues, until 23 September Spot-on stand-up from the South Shields comic

www.gwr.com

comedy

^

Cape Town Opera comes to Wales

exhibition

UNDRESSED: A BRIEF HISTORY OF UNDERWEAR V&A, until 12 March 2017 From short shorts to fancy pants

TERMS & CONDITIONS: Prize is non-transferrable to both another performance and another winner. Prize cannot be exchanged for cash.

No form of travel either to or from Wales Millennium Centre is included in the prize. The age guidance of Mandela Trilogy is 10+. No under-twos permitted.

escape | 11

NEXT STOP

CAN YOU FEEL THE FORCE? STAR WARS AT MADAME TUSSAUDS

Confront the dark side and come face to face with all your favourite heroes and villains from the Star Wars universe at Madame Tussauds. Take a selfie with Han Solo, practise your lightsaber skills against Anakin Skywalker and meet master Yoda at the most famous wax museum in the galaxy.

WHERE MADAME TUSSAUDS LONDON NEAREST TUBE BAKER STREET

DID YOU KNOW? CITIZEN DARTH

George Lucas originally wanted Orson Welles to voice Darth Vadar but decided he was too recognisable and gave the part to James Earl Jones instead.

PLAY IT AGAIN, LUKE

The line ‘Luke, I am your father’ does not in fact appear in any of the films and is probably one of the most misquoted lines in film history.

FAR, FAR AWAY

Some of the buildings constructed for the Tatooine scenes in A New Hope are still standing in Tunisia, which is sadly not on the GWR network.

12 | escape

Jubilee Pool The extraordinary Jubilee Pool opened in 1935 and its sleek modernist appearance won the hearts of swimmers and architecture fans for over 80 years.

Badly damaged during storms in 2014, it will reopen in late May and will operate until mid-September.

Raise a glass To help celebrate National Cider Week, the 174-foot attraction Jurassic Skyline has teamed up with Dorset Nectar to produce a new VIP flight. You can travel on the viewing tower with a glass of specially created artisan cider, while you learn how it was produced.

WHERE Penzance

WHERE Weymouth

WHEN Late May – mid-September

WHEN Ongoing

TAKE GWR TRAIN TO Penzance

TAKE GWR TRAIN TO Weymouth

www.gwr.com

Room full of mirrors: Jimi Hendrix in London

5 HISTORIC we love

HOUSES

Go through the keyhole at these famous homes

1

HANDEL & HENDRIX

BARBARA HEPWORTH MUSEUM

3

4

5

Now in the care of the National Trust, this attractive cob and thatch cottage in Higher Bockhampton, Dorset, is where author Thomas Hardy was born in 1840. It was here that he penned his classic novels, such as Far from the Madding Crowd.

Visit the comfortable Regency home of Portsmouth’s most famous son – Charles Dickens.

His father, John Dickens, a clerk in the navy pay office, rented the house with his young bride Elizabeth in the summer of 1809.

FREUD MUSEUM

Explore the homes of two neighbours who changed the face of music. The composer George Frideric Handel took a lease on a house in 25 Brook Street in 1723 and 245 years later Jimi Hendrix moved in next door to number 23.

Modernist sculptor Barbara Hepworth lived and worked at Trewyn Studio, in the centre of St Ives, from 1949 until her death in 1975. Here you can now find the largest permanent collection of her works on display in her studio and its garden.

Get an insight into the mind of the father of psychoanalysis with a visit to his family home at 20 Maresfield Gardens. The centrepiece has to be Freud’s study, incredibly well preserved and complete with its famous couch on which all of his patients reclined.

NEAREST TUBE

TAKE GWR TRAIN TO

NEAREST TUBE

BOND STREET

ST IVES

FINCHLEY ROAD

handelhendrix.org

bit.ly/thehepworthmuseum

freud.org.uk

IN LONDON

www.gwr.com

2

THOMAS HARDY’S COTTAGE

CHARLES DICKENS’ BIRTHPLACE MUSEUM

TAKE GWR TRAIN TO

TAKE GWR TRAIN TO

DORCHESTER WEST

PORTSMOUTH

nationaltrust.org.uk/ hardys-cottage

charlesdickensbirthplace. co.uk

escape | 13

SUMM

city IN THE

EMBER JOIN SEPT AS WITHERS TE HE ULTIMA T S E K A T SHE N, TAYCATIO LONDON S HE PICK OF T R E H H IT W IVALS, BEST FEST EATRE MENT, TH IN A T R E T EN AND FOOD ART OF IN THE HE OPOLIS THE METR

14 | escape

www.gwr.com

MER 16 www.gwr.com

capital ideas _entertainment_food _leisure_festivals

escape | 15

20 Exc % lus di ive sc ou nt

Book online www.mypaddington.com or call us on 020 7835 2000

Linking London’s Attractions the river, serving 21 piers across London, meaning you can see more

and h-in Touc ut using h-o touc yster O u go as yo pay

thamesclippers.com

@thamesclippers

TC Escape magazine Advert 190x125.indd 1

/ThamesClippers

/ThamesClippers

25/02/2016 21:06

WIN

egon to the A tickets ip nsh s Champio

The Hot Tub Tropicana Tour comes to London

ALL THE WORLD’S A STAGE Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre baker street tube ‘To be, or not to be…’ The only thing you need to question is your choice of snacks as you pack your picnic before heading over to the Open Air Theatre in Regent’s Park, which rolls into town again this year.

A whole host of magical productions will be taking to the stage, including Shakespeare’s Henry V, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Jesus Christ Superstar and Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.

OPENAIRTHEATRE.COM

Live music in Greenwich Park www.gwr.com

more. An informal evening of absolute elegance awaits you here under a beautiful canopy, with Holland House as a breathtaking backdrop.

OPERAHOLLANDPARK.COM

Die Fledermaus at Holland Park

The Scoop LONDON BRIDGE TUBE A sunken amphitheatre near Tower Bridge, The Scoop offers four months of free entertainment, including theatre, films and music during the summertime. No tickets, no stress – it’s a first-come-firstserved slice of fun. Bring your own food, drinks and blankets.

MORELONDON.COM

Opera Holland Park high street kensington tube There’s nothing swankier than heading to Holland Park during the summer months for a night at the opera. If you’ve never been one for arias and overtures, you simply must reconsider this June, when the season kicks off with an opera performance of Iris, followed by La Bohème, Die Fledermaus, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and many

The Pavilion Café North greenwich tube Summer nights are all about unwinding, which is why the Pavilion Café in Greenwich Park is inviting you to join them every Friday during June, July and August for an evening of free live music. A host of extremely talented musicians from Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance will be playing everything from classical guitar to folk and jazz.

A traditional men’s warm-up for Wimbledon, the Aegon Championships, at the Queen’s Club, London from 13–19 June, feature some of the world’s top players, including Andy Murray, Rafael Nadal and Stanislas Wawrinka.

Benenden is working in partnership with the Lawn Tennis Association to promote sport as part of a healthy lifestyle. Together, they are giving away a pair of tickets to the tournament, and the lucky winner will have prime seats for the semi-finals on 18 June.

Benenden offers a wide range of discretionary healthcare services designed to relieve the distress of a long wait on the NHS. For only £8.71 per person, per month, you could enjoy quick diagnosis and treatment at approved private hospitals nationwide.

To enter: Simply register to receive more information about Benenden at benenden.co.uk/gwr Closing date: 15 May 2016. Terms and conditions apply. See website for details.

ROYALPARKS.ORG.UK

Hot Tub Cinema various locations Bikinis, blockbusters and bubbles. That’s right, a trip to the cinema just hit whole new heights of indulgence.

This summer, the Hot Tub Tropicana Tour is making its way to London. Book a whole tub to share with pals and enjoy your favourite films on rooftops, and in courtyards and parks around the capital.

HOTTUBCINEMA.COM

escape | 17

OPERAT IONS ANALYS T NURSE

DOCTOR MARKE TEER ENGINE ER

ACHIEVE SOMETHING REMARKABLE Get ready for an adventure like no other.

Join the only global yacht race crewed by people like you, no experience required.

clipperroundtheworld.com/apply +44 (0) 2392 526000

LONDON SUMMER

LET’S GO ALFRESCO

Relax and top up your tan on the urban beach at London’s Royal Docks

BESIDE THE SEASIDE The Roundhouse CHALK FARM TUBE Who needs Ibiza when you have Camden Beach returning to the Roundhouse this summer? Sand, deckchairs, pop-up food and bar stalls, beach huts, games – this sun-soaked terrace has it all.

It’s the ultimate urban beach for city dwellers.

ROUNDHOUSE.ORG.UK

Serpentine lido lancaster gate tube Okay, it’s not quite a beach, but the Serpentine Lido in Hyde Park is a magical place offering Londoners the chance to escape city life.

You will love coming here if you don’t mind taking a dip with the local wildlife (ducks and swans), but even if open-water swimming isn’t your thing, it’s worth a visit if only to enjoy a spot of sunbathing.

SERPENTINELIDO.COM

The Beach at Brent Cross hendon central tube Life’s a beach at Brent Cross shopping centre. Where else can you enjoy some seaside sun while also catching up on your shopping?

Last year’s Beach at Brent Cross saw fairground rides, seaside games, a log flume, a helter skelter, a 60ft rollercoaster, seaside-themed snacks, a Tiki-style Pimm’s bar and, of course, Punch and Judy. The 2016 beach promises to be even better.

THEBEACHBRENTCROSS.COM

London’s Royal Docks North greenwich tube Underneath the Emirates Air Line Cable Car awaits a seaside resort. A proper beach with a stretch of sand, deckchairs and an enclosed dock that will make you feel like you’re sunning yourself in Spain.

Well, sort of.

Parkside Farm cockfosters tube Foraging around the farmer’s market? Forget it.

We’re making our way to Parkside Farm near Cockfosters in London, where they grow nearly 20 different fruits and vegetables ready for their pick-your-own season between June and October.

Choose a basket, bag or trolley and pluck food fresh from the field. Delicious.

PARKSIDEFARMPYO.CO.UK

BYO Barbecue If you live in London, it’s likely you don’t have a garden, but fear not, as many local parks in the capital have designated barbecue zones where you and your friends can come together to sizzle your sausages. Make your way to London Fields Park in Hackney, Burgess Park in Southwark and Highbury Fields in Islington during the warm summer evenings and weekends – just don’t forget to bring the matches.

Have a sip at The Ship

Street food to savour dalston junction tube Imagine a playground for London’s best and most prestigious street food vendors and you’ll probably find yourself at Dalston Yard’s Street Feast. Head east on a Friday and Saturday night for an evening of lobster rolls, jerk chicken, smoky pulled pork and more.

The vibe is fun, upbeat and, above all, relaxed. It’s a perfect way to spend a summer weekend.

BIT.LY/DALSTONYARD

Beer gardens So many beer gardens, so little time. There are tons of great pubs in London to choose from but if you simply want to head somewhere with a big beer garden and a great atmosphere after a long day at work, try one of these: The Edinboro Castle in Camden, The Faltering Fullback in Finsbury Park, The Garden Gate in Hampstead, and The Ship near Wandsworth Bridge.

LONDONSROYALDOCKS.COM/ URBAN-BEACH

Pick your own fruit, or barbecue a burger this summer

Take a dip with the ducks at the Serpentine Lido in Hyde Park www.gwr.com

escape | 19

LONDON SUMMER

Dizzee Rascal

South West Four CLAPHAM COMMON TUBE A proper festival in its own right, this year’s SW4 line-up so far includes Chemical Brothers, Rudimental, Dizzee Rascal and more. Clapham Common will once again be awash with visitors and local revellers enjoying two days of music in August, come rain or shine.

SOUTHWESTFOUR.COM

Add a smile and a splash of colour to the Totally Thames Festival

HAVE A FIELD DAY Wimbledon SOUTHFIELDS TUBE Whether it’s the ballot or the overnight camping that’s getting in the way of you bagging Wimbledon tickets, know that you can still have lots of fun watching

this year’s championships away from the tennis courts.

New Street Square near St Paul’s Cathedral, Garden Bar in Notting Hill, The Refinery at Bankside, Bluebird in Chelsea and The Avalon in Clapham are just some of the places screening Andy Wimbledon matches Murray, live this summer. back on WIMBLEDON.COM

form

Totally Thames Festival EMBANKMENT TUBE Spanning the whole of September 2016, the Totally Thames Festival is set to celebrate the city and river with stalls, street food, music, art, exhibitions, regattas, comedy and more along the bankside. This month-long party will be full of colour so keep your eyes peeled for a season of fun river events.

TOTALLYTHAMES.ORG

FESTIVAL FUN

Enjoy this trio of great get-togethers taking place around the network

Snap a selfie at the Hijacked Festival

Dine and dance in Cardiff Bay

Make your own Regency bonnet in Bath

EXETER may If you’re into your electronic dance music, the Hijacked Festival in Exeter is worth checking out. This will be the third year the festival has come to town.

CARDIFF july Love your food?

Then the Cardiff International Food and Drink Festival is for you. Between 8–10 July, the waterfront at Cardiff Bay will be transformed into a

BATH september During the 16th place between annual Jane Austen 9–18 September, Festival in Bath this year’s festival you won’t be able includes talks, to avoid more than day trips, concerts 500 people and bonnet dressed head to making courses.

JANEAUSTENFESTIVAL toe in Regency BATH.CO.UK costumes. Taking

20 | escape

Taking place on 26 May at the Double Locks, an idyllic and intimate canal-side venue, tickets are on sale now and selling fast.

BIT.LY/HIJACKEDFEST

colourful and cultural feast for the eyes (and stomach). Live music will also add to this great weekend of culinary delights.

CARDIFF-EVENTS.COM

www.gwr.com

Client Client Outlet Outlet Ad Ad Type Type Publication Publication Size Size

-- McAG McAG -- Swindon Swindon -- Press Press -- Escape Escape -- 190x125mm 190x125mm

Type Initials - GB N/Given Type Area Area -- N/Given Bleed Scale - 100 3mm Bleed -- 3mm Date Effective DPI - >300 26–02–2016 Date -- 26–02–2016 File File Name Name -GL1060_33_SS16_Swindon_Escape -GL1060_33_SS16_Swindon_EscapeMagazine_Display Magazine_DisplayAd_Press_190x125mm_AW Ad_Press_190x125mm_AW

Manx National Heritage

Eiraght Ashoonagh Vannin

Discovery Quay, Falmouth 01326 313388 nmmc.co.uk National Maritime Museum_Escape_Sum_16.indd 1

Institutional & Lending Partners

Manx National Heritage

Eiraght Ashoonagh Vannin

21/03/2016 17:48

PEN ZAN C E Reopens in late May for the 2016 summer season following major renovation. Come to bathe, relax and enjoy spectacular views over Mount’s Bay and beyond at the UK’s largest and most celebrated art-deco lido. Visit: www.jubileepool.co.uk

THE FRIENDS OF

JUBILEE POOL

R

oald Dahl is the big famous giant of children's literature and 2016 marks the centenary of his birth. Born on 13 September 1916 in Llandaff, Cardiff, Dahl's popularity has if anything only increased since his death on 23 November 1990, with Harry Potter creator JK Rowling his one serious rival among British writers for children.

In fact, Rowling chose Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, first published in 1964, as one of her 'classic books to read' in a 2006 survey. Just last year, Charlie topped the list of books that parents would most like their children to have read by the time they're 16. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – the Musical is currently in its third year at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, joining Matilda the Musical in the heart of London's West End.

ROALD DAHL S ’ ROAD TRIPS

www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk

In the centenary year of Roald Dahl’s birth, Andrew Littlefield journeys to the heart of Dahl country to find the places and people that helped to inspire his work escape | 23

‘A STUNNING PRODUCTION.

‘BRILLIANT’ The Mail

FABULOUS FROM BEGINNING TO END. DESERVES TO BE ONE OF YOUR FAVOURITE THINGS’ Daily Echo

‘HEAVENLY’ Evening News

Bill Kenwright presents A NEW PRODUCTION OF

THE SOUND OF MUSIC Music by

Lyrics by

RICHARD and OSCAR RODGERS HAMMERSTEIN II

LUCY O’BYRNE Runner Up in last year’s THE VOICE as MARIA

HOWARD LINDSAY

Book by

RUSSEL CROUSE

‘A SUMPTUOUSLY LAVISH SHOW...

TREMENDOUS’ The Stage

Suggested by ‘The Trapp Family Singers’ by Maria Augusta Trapp Presented by special arrangement with R&H Theatricals Europe www.rnh.com

TUE 9 – SAT 13 AUGUST 01872 262466 • hallforcornwall.co.uk

RAISE A GLASS JURASSIC SKYLINE CIDER FLIGHTS Experience a VIP flight 174ft above Weymouth with a glass of our very own artisan cider.

Learn about how it was produced by Dorset Nectar, here, in the West Country.

Crafted by

Jurassicskyline.com

ROALD DAHL

ROALD DAHL

Dahl’s writing shed at Gipsy House in Great Missenden

A MAN AND HIS SHED

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory may well be Dahl's single most popular book, but it’s just one of the many jewels in his long and ceaselessly creative writing career. From 1961's James and the Giant Peach to 1990's Esio Trot, Dahl retreated from view and wrote bestseller after bestseller from the safety of a writing shed at the bottom of his garden at Gipsy House, the family home in Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire.

At one point in Matilda (1988), our heroine visits the library in nearby Aylesbury.

Here Matilda spends ‘two glorious hours sitting quietly by herself in a cosy corner devouring one book after another’. You get the feeling that Dahl too thought this was a kind of solitary bliss.

The actual garden at Gipsy

The restored Norwegian Church in Cardiff Bay

House had been planted by Dahl and builder Wally Saunders, a gentle giant of a man who is said to have sparked the initial inspiration for The BFG (1982), another of Dahl's 'greatest hits'.

The BFG is soon to reach cinemas in a lavish new film version, opening on 22 July, from Disney and director Steven Spielberg – a fitting centenary tribute from one popular genius to another.

Dahl once said that of all his stories, The BFG was particularly close to his heart; it was dedicated to his daughter Olivia, who died young. Readers the world over have had a similarly heartfelt response to this fantastic tale of an orphan girl who one evening, at the witching hour, is visited by a big friendly giant. Dahl was himself exceptionally tall, reaching six feet six inches in adult life.

NORWAY ON THE BAY

Roald Dahl Museum

5 GREAT DAHL FAVOURITES

Fantastic Mr Fox (1970) www.gwr.com

The Enormous Crocodile (1978)

The Twits (1980)

Revolting Rhymes (1982)

The Witches (1983)

Also close to Dahl's heart was the Norwegian Church in Cardiff Bay, where he and his siblings were baptised.

The church spoke to Dahl's memories of growing up in Wales, and also to his family's Norwegian heritage (his parents were Norwegian, and they named him after the great Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen). Needless to say, Welsh and Norwegian cultures are awash with myths and legends populated by the same kind of supernatural figures – giants, witches, ogres – which frequently reoccur in Dahl's own stories for children. His major preoccupation with children gaining their revenge on wicked adults also has its roots in fairy tales, and in moral verse.

The original Norwegian Church had fallen into disrepair by the 1970s, and Roald Dahl led the campaign to have it escape | 25

ROALD DAHL

THREE MORE LITERARY ANNIVERSARIES

Matilda the Musical celebrates the joy of reading

Steven Spielberg’s The BFG

restored. Nowadays it is part of the Cardiff Bay Development and is a popular venue for arts exhibitions and events (norwegianchurchcardiff.com).

It was also in Cardiff that Dahl began his schooling, at Llandaff Cathedral School, before his widowed mother packed him off to board at St Peter's Preparatory School in Weston-super-Mare in 1925. Weston-super-Mare itself is on the Great Western Railway network and its golden beach is worth a visit.

roots was unveiled by his widow Liccy and his son Theo on the site of the fearsome Mrs Pratchett's sweetshop in the High Street at Llandaff, as mentioned in Dahl’s autobiographical volume Boy (1984).

CARDIFF KID

SWEET TOOTH

Today, Cardiff celebrates Dahl's ties to the city in a number of ways. Roald Dahl Plass on Cardiff Bay is home to both the Senedd, the Welsh Assembly Building, and the Wales Millennium Centre (Plass, by the way, means ‘space’ in Norwegian). Genre TV fans will also know Roald Dahl Plass from its appearances in episodes of Doctor Who and Torchwood.

In 2009, a blue plaque honouring Dahl's Welsh The spacious Roald Dahl Plass

26 | escape

Dahl himself had a lifelong love affair with all kinds of sweet treats, and his happy memories of being given free samples of Cadbury chocolate bars while a boarder at Derby's Repton School in the 1930s undoubtedly helped inspire the sugary rush of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

In 1953, just as he was beginning to make a name for himself as a writer of sinister stories very much for adults, Dahl married his first wife, the American actress Patricia Neal, and the couple settled in the house at Great Missenden for the next 30 years.

Great Missenden remains at the heart of Roald Dahl country, with his life and work celebrated at the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre (roalddahl.com) and the Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery in Aylesbury (buckscountymuseum.org).

Blake meets potter Sir Quentin Blake provided memorable illustrations for many of Roald Dahl’s best-loved books. In September, more of his work will be seen in The Tale of Kitty-in-Boots, a previously unpublished manuscript by Beatrix Potter. It’s being published for the first time to coincide with the 150th anniversary of Potter’s death.

And a brilliant place to see examples of Blake’s collaborations with many other authors is the House of Illustration, London. houseofillustration.org.uk where there’s a will William Shakespeare’s death in 1616, 400 years ago, gets the Royal Mint memorial treatment this year, with a trio of £2 coins being issued to celebrate different aspects of the bard’s life and work.

Other Shakespearian celebrations in 2016 include The Complete Walk, an event masterminded by The Globe Theatre. Over the weekend of 23–24 April, a series of giant screens pitched along the River Thames will show 37 different short films inspired by each one of Shakespeare’s plays. shakespearesglobe.com The full Brontë From the Thames it’s but a short stroll to the National Portrait Gallery in central London. Here, they’re celebrating the 200th anniversary of Charlotte Brontë’s birth with a small memorial exhibition, running until 14 August, that includes manuscripts, portraits and even a pair of cloth boots belonging to the famous Jane Eyre author. npg.org.uk www.gwr.com

Bring the family to...

Bring the family to...

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05/01/2016 12:01

NATIONAL THEATRE WALES WITH/GYDA WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE

WRITTEN BY / YSGRIFENNWYD GAN

DIRECTED BY / CYFARWYDDWYD GAN

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27.05.16 – 11.06.16 SHERMAN THEATRE, CARDIFF / THEATR Y SHERMAN, CAERDYDD ˆ YL Y LLAIS PART OF FESTIVAL OF VOICE / RHAN O W NATIONALTHEATREWALES.ORG / 029 2064 6900 / #NTWBEFORE

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RELAXED PERFORMANCE

ADVERTISING FEATURE

CHOOSE CORNWALL FOR NEW ADVENTURES

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anting to try something new on your next trip to Cornwall?

Or maybe you are planning a family break to the South West and want to make sure everyone is kept entertained?

It’s exactly these dilemmas that Seycat Live Like A Local help their customers with, by crafting bespoke activity packages designed around your location preferences and group. From watersports, adventure experiences, educational nature activities, arts and crafts to gastro adventures, Seycat have a deep local knowledge base and service that makes booking an extraordinary holiday experience quick and hassle free.

For a taste of the sort of adventures we can provide, here’s a summary of a holiday plan we’ve recently put together for a couple visiting Cornwall in May. Low Tide Experience Tresco, Isles of Scilly The spring tide will leave the channel between Tresco and Bryher exposed for just long enough to cross between the islands on foot, in the middle of the day.

Enjoy a totally unique Scillonian lunch experience.

Foraging Walk Cape Cornwall Your expert guide will enlighten you on a two-hour circular walk from seashore to woodland. Learn how to forage and identify plants, as well as gather recipe ideas.

THE CALM OF CORNWALL

Catamaran Wildlife Sea Safari For two to three hours of uninterrupted bliss, you'll get the chance to encounter inquisitive grey seals, graceful seabirds, various species of dolphins, enigmatic sunfish and even giants such as minke whales, basking sharks and leatherback turtles.

Lady Windermere’s Fan by Oscar Wilde Minack Theatre, 11–13 May Enjoy one of Oscar Wilde’s theatrical masterpieces at this stunning open-air venue, set in glorious gardens overlooking Porthcurno Bay.

over narrow creeks and the vast water of the Fal itself. The Hotel Tresanton looks across the water to the unspoilt Roseland Peninsula, making it the perfect place to enjoy an amazing lunch.

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walk round the Trellisk Peninsula Includes a ferry to Roseland and lunch at the stunning Tresanton Hotel. Your walk follows the River Fal and offers a variety of views

THE SECLUDED PORTHGWARRA BEACH

28 | escape

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Hide and Seek: Drawings by Eileen Cooper RA

20 April - 10 September 2016 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

FREE entry Open Wed – Sat, 11am – 3pm Swindon Museum & Art Gallery, Bath Road, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4BA www.swindonmuseumandartgallery.org.uk t: 01793 466556 e: smag@swindon.gov.uk Eileen Cooper Showing the Flower, 1983, Charcoal and conté 82 x 59 cm Alyce Faye Eichelberger-Cleese, © Eileen Cooper, All rights reserved, DACS 2016

Sharpham Trust_Escape_Sum_16.indd 1

29/02/2016 12:34

The dreaming spires of Oxford

The Great Hall at Christ Church

WHY WE9

oxford Learn a thing or two in the great university city

WHY GO THERE?

Stunning architecture, history and culture combine in the so-called ‘City of Dreaming Spires’, an inspirational seat of learning where there is always plenty to keep the best and brightest minds occupied.

the Great Hall (pictured above).

What is more, your patronage will help contribute to the upkeep of these historic buildings. For more, visit universityrooms.com WHAT’S HIP?

There’s an eclectic range of acts and shows lined up for 2016 at the New Theatre, including Make your way to the Green Day musical American Ashmolean Museum, home Idiot, from 3–7 May, prog to the university’s excellent rockers Yes, on 9 May, collection of art and archaeology. Established in and prog comic Bill Bailey, Bill Bailey 1683, it has the distinction of on 11–12 May. being the first public museum in the UK. WHERE DO I START?

WHERE SHOULD I KIP?

With university life such an important aspect of the city, why not try staying at student residences? University rooms offer an inexpensive alternative to hotels and hostels. You could stay in Christ Church and take breakfast in

only in oxford Get a pint in The Eagle and Child, the bookish boozer that was frequented by JRR Tolkien and CS Lewis and which has been a public house since 1650.

1

Catch the cutting-edge exhibitions at Modern Art Oxford, which this year marks 50 years on the scene. To celebrate,

2

iconic works from the past will return to the gallery from across the globe. modernartoxford.org.uk

3 Take a tour of the

world famous Bodleian Library, browsed by previous illustrious readers, including 40 Nobel Prize winners and 25 British prime ministers. bodleian.ox.ac.uk

IF I DO ONE THING?

Oxford is full of venerable traditions and the most fun among them has to be messing about in boats on the River Cherwell. At Magdalen Bridge boathouse you can hire punts, rowing boats and pedalos or spoil yourself by hiring a chauffeured craft.

college at christ church has did you know? the appeared in the harry potter films

www.gwr.com

Boat hire on the River Cherwell

Bodleian Library

escape | 31

ON YOUR BIKE! celebrating the National Cycle Network’s 21st birthday, Pete Dommett picks five Great Western rides

Perfect your pedal prowess

32 | escape

www.gwr.com

CYCLING

J BEWLEY/SUSTRANS Š2010, SUSTRANS

Get your kicks on route 26

Spin those wheels of steel

1

The Strawberry Line

National Cycle Network Route 26 moorland, marshes and cider STATION START & FINISH Yatton apple orchards.

DISTANCE: 20 miles If you’re fond of the real DIFFICULTY: Easy amber nectar, visit the As sweet as it sounds, this Thatchers farm shop as you former GWR branch line cycle through the village of carried its cargo of summer Sandford, or pop next door fruits fresh from the fields of to their very own cider house, Somerset for almost a century, The Railway Inn, for a full range before closing in the 1960s. of draft and bottled ciders and Starting at Yatton (just 15 top-quality gastropub grub. minutes on the mainline from Suitably refreshed, cycle Bristol Temple Meads), this easy-to-follow, there-and-back on to the Shute Shelve Tunnel.

This cuts a (very) dark passage track takes you through

through the Mendip Hills and is home to bats and cave spiders.

If you want to avoid riding on roads, turn around here or pedal past the picturesque town of Axbridge, with its medieval market square, before trekking on to Cheddar.

Buy a punnet of red berries from a roadside stall to enjoy at the nearby reservoir or push on for another mile for spectacular cliffs, caves and, er, cheese. Gorgeous.

Strawberry fields forever

FIND OUT MORE For online maps go to sustrans. org.uk

www.gwr.com

escape | 33

T H E

U K ’ S

F I R ST

O U T

3 D

P L A N E TA R I U M .

O F T H I S WO R L D. I N B R I STO L .

BOOK NOW: B O O K YOUR Y O U R SEAT S E AT N O W A AT-BRISTOL.ORG.UK T- B R I S T O L . O R G . U K FIND US: AT-BRISTOL’S MILLENNIUM SQUARE

GLOUCESTER 2016 23–30 JULY 3choirs.org @3choirs 3ChoirsFestival

CYCLING

2

The Exe Estuary Trail National Cycle Network Route 2

STATION START & FINISH

Topsham (via Exmouth) DISTANCE 9 miles DIFFICULTY Easy This Devonian circuit around the business end of the River Exe starts opposite Dart’s Farm shopping village (look for the bicycle on top of a telegraph pole), just a short ride along a shared-use path from Topsham Station.

A well-signed route meanders along the east side of the estuary. This is an internationally important area for birdlife, including avocets – striking black and white waders once described by Chris Packham as the ‘Audrey Hepburn of birds’ – that have given their name to the ExeterExmouth ‘Avocet Line’ running beside you.

The River Exe marks the spot

The path travels over wooden boardwalks and through the villages of Exton and Lympstone before arriving in Exmouth marina.

From here, catch the ferry across the mouth of the estuary to Starcross.

Near Starcross Station, you’ll notice a red brick pumping house, all that remains of Brunel’s ill-fated Atmospheric Railway.

Brunel’s idea to propel trains by the power of air pressure was plagued by problems – including rats chomping their way through the leather flaps that sealed the air pipes – and was abandoned after less than a year.

Continuing up the estuary’s west side, you’ll find yourself pedalling past Powderham Castle (currently home to the 18th Earl and Countess of Devon) and on to the Turf Hotel. From the bottom of the beer garden, ‘Sea Dream’ will ferry you (and your bike) back to Topsham’s quayside.

BOOK YOUR BIKE ONBOARD

reserve a place Make your reservation at least two hours before. Call 0345 7000 125 between 07:00 and 22:00, or visit a station ticket office.

1

can you pack it in?

Folding bikes with a maximum 18-inch wheel can be carried as luggage without any restriction. Please make sure you fold it before boarding.

2

Ride round the east of the estuary

plan ahead We recommend you are on the platform at least five minutes before your train is due to leave.

Our station staff will let you know where the bike carriage will stop.

3

on the fast track From Monday 16 May 2016, reservations for bikes will be mandatory on all our High Speed trains.

Storage is in Carriage A. Secure your bike with the strap provided, but don’t lock it up and tell the train manager your destination.

4

www.gwr.com

escape | 35

02 JULY - 20 AUGUST 2016

Sign up to our database for more information: hello@dancerepublic2.com | www.dancerepublic2.com

CYCLING

3

The Brunel Trail

National Cycle Network Route 4 STATION START:

Pembroke Dock Haverfordwest or Johnston DISTANCE: 11 miles DIFFICULTY: Moderate From Pembroke Dock Station, follow the Route 4 signs over Cleddau Bridge and the Milford Haven Waterway to nearby Neyland. A tiny fishing village in 1856, Neyland became a true railway boomtown when Brunel decided it was to become the western terminus of his beloved GWR. Neyland enjoyed a golden age of growth that lasted 50 years. Times were harder in the second half of the 20th century, but in the late 1980s a smart new marina was built.

The trail starts here (look for the statue of old Isambard at Brunel Quay), linking up with a cyclepath through Westfield Pill Nature Reserve. The route rises gently through the Pembrokeshire countryside and arrives at Johnston Station. Pedal on along the purposebuilt wooden track, which winds all the way to the ancient market town of Haverfordwest, or catch the train home if you’ve had enough history for one day.

STATION START:

The Brunel statue at Brunel Quay

www.gwr.com

A rocky ride at Afan Forest Park The roots of mountain biking

4

Afan Forest Park

National Cycle Network Route 887 STATION START & FINISH:

Port Talbot Parkway 12 miles DIFFICULTY: The route to Afan Forest is easy. Once there, the bike trails range from easy to expert.

Afan Forest Park is the Welsh mountain biking mecca. Warm up for an epic day of hardcore MTB action by cycling to the centre from Port Talbot.

From Parkway Station, find the road to the Afan River, then take the dual cycle and DISTANCE:

pedestrian pathway upstream, past the old mining communities of Cwmafan and Pontrydyfen and into the forest itself. On the way, look out for the Afan Valley Portrait Bench where famous local sons, actor Richard Burton and comedian Rob Brydon, are proudly preserved in sculptured steel.

The park offers more than 60 miles of twisty rides carved out of the mountains – enough to satisfy even the most heavily hooked adrenalin junkies. There’s also a skills practice area with berms, drop-offs and jumps galore.

Don’t overdo it though – you’ve still got to hightail your hard tail back to the station. escape | 37

CYCLING Cycling helps keep you fit and healthy

5

Chiseldon Timberland Trail

National Cycle Network Route 45 From the station, follow the STATION START & FINISH: Swindon marked route out of town to DISTANCE: 10 miles Coate Water Park and the DIFFICULTY: Easy/moderate start of the trail proper.

Home to GWR’s STEAM The path passes through museum, Swindon is the pretty park grounds, before synonymous with the railway, crossing the M4 on a kind of and this cycle route links the concrete helter-skelter. It then historic train station with a follows the old Swindon to local well-kept secret.

DID YOU KNOW?

Head back to Marlborough the town centre railway line Almost via the country through a 5 million park at Coate. glorious people use This spot, popular Wiltshire wood, the NCN with Swindonians, famous for its is a very pleasant place bluebell display in to while away a summer’s spring, to Chiseldon. afternoon. You can hire a Spend a while exploring this rowing boat to pootle about historic village – visit the on the 70-acre lake, play a remains of Iron Age Liddington round on the pitch ’n’ putt Castle and see if you can spot golf course, cool off in the the faint image of the Grim ‘Splash Park’ or ride the Reaper on the Devil Stone miniature steam railway. at Parsonage Farm.

Reading’s Year of Culture

reading2016.org.uk

A place of innovation, imagination and magic Supported by

38 | escape

May all about history and heritage — June a celebration of food — July a festival of theatre www.gwr.com

J BEWLEY/SUSTRANS ©2010, SUSTRANS

Explore the Chiseldon trail

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre Inner Circle, Regent’s Park NW1 4NU

T

he award-winning Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre is a London summertime essential, creating unforgettable theatre in the heart of a royal park.

This season, from the writer of the international phenomenon War Horse, experience the wonder of the Indonesian rainforest in Michael Morpurgo’s Running Wild (13 May–12 Jun).

With a cast of 40, this is the largest -scale production ever to be staged at the Open Air Theatre.

Continuing the theme of epic theatre, ‘Cry – God for Harry! England and Saint George’ and celebrate Shakespeare400 with Henry V (17 Jun–9 Jul), directed by Donmar Warehouse associate director Robert Hastie.

For classic drama meet Mr Darcy in Jane Austen’s ultimate romantic comedy,

Pride and Prejudice (2–17 Sep), a sell-out when it first appeared at the Open Air Theatre in 2013.

The summer musical is always a season highlight, and in 2016 artistic director Timothy Sheader directs a powerful new production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Jesus Christ Superstar (15 Jul–27 Aug), 45 years since this seminal musical first

hit the stage.

Nothing beats the fairy-lit ambience of this truly unique outdoor theatre, making it the perfect place to share with family and friends. Why not arrive early to soak up the whole atmosphere, or pay a pre-show visit to the venue's popular barbecue, where you can order The Regent’s Park Burger, a mouthwatering summer classic.

RECIPE

ZUPPA DI BAKED SEA BREAM EN PAPILLOTE YOU WILL NEED (SERVES 4) 1 sea bream, weighing about 1.25kg, scaled and gutted A few sprigs of rosemary 1 small dried chilli 6 whole cloves of garlic, skin left on Sea salt 50ml olive oil ½ glass of dry white wine 1 lemon

TOP FARE by mitch tonks

in safe hands

Bream in the bag, Mitch Tonks style

great food and friendly service

I’ve become drawn more to familiar things as I get older, which brings great comfort.

Don’t get me wrong. I love the thrill and excitement of something new, but it’s just wonderful when you go somewhere you know for a little break, to clear your head, and you are greeted with the warmest of welcomes and recollections of the last time you visited.

With that in mind, here are my recommendations for restaurants that have, for me, become known for friendliness and hospitality.

PRINCE HALL, DARTMOOR This hotel, restaurant and pottery feels like going to stay with friends in the country.

Unsurprisingly, good walks abound and this little gem serves food that is a genuinely great experience.

CAFÉ AL FRESCO, DARTMOUTH This Dartmouth institution is run by Kate and Pete Ryder, who know all about cooking tasty breakfasts and lunches and creating an atmosphere that suits everyone from local fishermen to visitors enjoying brunch.

THE WALNUT TREE, ABERGAVENNY I love my visits to this restaurant and my 2015 trip was the highlight of the year.

The food is cooked by Shaun Hill, who knows exactly what he’s doing. The atmosphere is cosy, the countryside around it sublime. It’s like visiting old friends.

IDLE ROCKS, ST MAWES The location, right by the water’s edge, is a natural

Keep us updated about your best food finds @mitchtonks and @gwrUk

40 | escape

draw of course, but it is the attention to detail and warmth of service that make you return. I recently did a guest night here and can safely say that you’ll be in good hands.

to make Put a piece of turkey-size tinfoil about 70-80cm long on to a work surface and cover with a layer of parchment paper. Fold over each edge so that the foil and parchment are secured together at the edges.

Put a couple of sprigs of rosemary in the belly cavity of the fish and a couple in the centre of the parchment. Lay the fish on the parchment and crumble the chilli over the top.

Lightly crush the garlic cloves by putting the flat side of a knife on top and giving it a thump with your hand, then put them on and around the fish. Sprinkle with sea salt. Lift up the edges of the foil to keep everything in and add the olive oil and wine. Now encase the fish in the foil – it should be in a loose bag but sealed tightly, enabling it to steam. Place it on a roasting tray and bake in a hot oven for 35 minutes.

Remove from the oven and carefully undo the bag, folding back the sides to make the fish easy to get at. Squeeze a little lemon over the top and give everyone a plate so they can help themselves.

The harbour at St Mawes

www.gwr.com

LIVE THE ISLAND LIFE ON SCILLY It’s that first glimpse of pristine white sands.

The bracing hit of sea air. Flowers you’ve never seen before. Shellfish fresh from the sea. Island hopping by day and tapping your feet to folk songs by night.

When we connect you to the Isles of Scilly, you’ll connect with the rhythm of island life. #TRAVELLOCAL

Fly to Scilly in an hour or less from Exeter, Newquay and Land’s End airports. You can also sail to Scilly from Penzance on the Scillonian III passenger ferry.

CALL 01736 334220 WWW.ISLESOFSCILLY-TRAVEL.CO.UK

St Ives, Cornwall

Save 54% up to

*

when you book in advance at GWR.com

Be a Great Westerner. You’ll always find the lowest train fares when you book direct with Great Western Railway. *Average saving on Advance Purchase fares compared to being purchased on the day.

Selected routes only. Subject to availability.

THE GUIDE

TICKETS TO SUIT YOU

GET THE MOST FROM YOUR JOURNEY At Great Western Railway, we believe every journey should be an enjoyable one. Whether you’re going away for the weekend with loved ones, doing extra work on your laptop or taking some time out for yourself, we’re here to help

BUY BEFORE YOU BOARD

First Class For added luxury, see if your train offers exclusive First Class carriages.

First Class offers more spacious seats, complimentary refreshments and newspapers and use of our dedicated First Class lounges.

Season Tickets Season Tickets are the best value for customers regularly making the same journey. There’s a choice of tickets lasting seven days, one year, or any number of months in-between.

Night Riviera Sleeper Arrive rested and relaxed with our Sleeper service. Our ‘moving hotel’ offers fully air-conditioned private cabins, complimentary travel accessories, free refreshments and even a morning wake-up call.

London Day Travelcard Visiting the capital for a short break?

The London Day Travelcard offers unlimited travel on all forms of public transport across the whole of London.

To qualify for the best value tickets and offers, buy your ticket in advance. Here’s how to buy before you board ONLINE gwr.com

BY PHONE 03457 000 125 (0700–2200 Mon–Fri, 0800–1900 Sat–Sun) AT THE STATION From ticket offices. Most debit and credit cards are accepted. Don’t forget to pick up a mini timetable or download one from our website.

Please make sure you buy your ticket before travelling.

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Hereford

Take RailAir - the dedicated non-stop coach service from Reading.

FIND OUT MORE AT www.railair.com

Heyford

M in- ore M to ar ns Kin h gh am Sh ip to n

Le db ur y Co lw all

FIND YOUR WAY AROUND THE NETWORK

Exmouth

Dorchester West

Portsmouth Harbour

Upwey

Weymouth

escape | 43

GETTING AROUND

TRANSPORT LINKS FROM STATIONS

On the road with the Mendip Xplorer

Xplore the Mendips Visit Glastonbury, Street and Wells by bus

The Mendips have been opened up thanks to a bespoke bus service from Bristol Temple Meads, taking visitors to all the attractions. The Mendip Xplorer provides travellers with a direct link to historic Wells, quirky Glastonbury and bustling Street, taking in some of the best that Somerset has to offer.

The Mendip Xplorer, operated by Great Western Railway’s sister company First West of England, Historic Wells Britian's smallest city

launched in Autumn 2015 with brand new double-decker buses giving customers unparalleled views of the stunning Mendip Hills. The buses also feature leather seats, WiFi and a special map designed to help tourists make the most of some of the local tourist attractions. A special offer of buy one Adult First West of England Day Ticket get one free (worth £7.50) is available via gwr.com/ explore-the-west Among the many destinations along the

route is historic Wells. This medieval settlement is Britain’s smallest city, with history on every corner. The main attraction is the majestic 13th-century cathedral which dominates the skyline. Close by you can also find Bishop’s Palace, a medieval palace protected by a moat and beautiful gardens.

Further along the route is Glastonbury, thought to be the birthplace of King Arthur, and then finally Street, the home of Clark’s Shoes, complete with an impressive shopping village. firstgroup.com/mendip

WHEN YOU’RE ON BOARD

PROBLEM WITH ONBOARD WIFI? If travelling on one of our daytime services operated by our 'Class 180' fleet, please email GWR.support@icomera.com or call 020 8028 0378. If taking one of our overnight Sleeper services or our long distance HST services, email GWR-OTS@nomadrail.com or call 0330 088 1275. Please ask a member of the onboard team if you're unsure which train type you are travelling on.

44 | escape

LUGGAGE can be stored on the overhead shelves, in the racks at the end of carriages, or under the seats.

FIRST CLASS can be found in Coaches K and L on High Speed Trains, and on some selected local services.

POWER POINTS are available to use for free on all our High Speed Trains. Look between the seats in front of you in Standard, or on the walls in First Class.

THE QUIET CARRIAGE offers peaceful travel, free from phones and music players.

Head to Coach A in Standard on our High Speed Trains.

By bus PLUSBUS is a ticket that can be added to most types of train ticket.

PLUSBUS gives you unlimited bus travel around town at the start, finish, or at both ends of your train journey.

Together with your train ticket, it’s a great way to get directly to your chosen destination.

By bike We support green travel and bicycles are a fantastic way to make your way from A to B, not to mention the health benefits of pedal power. Don’t forget to reserve a place for your bike on board, where possible, or take advantage of bike hire schemes or parking facilities.

By plane Leave the car at home when flying from Bristol, Cardiff or Exeter International Airports, each a short bus ride away from the city’s station. Travel with us direct from Reading to Gatwick Airport by train or to Heathrow via the RailAir coach service from Reading.

By car Most of our stations have pay-as-you-go car parks. Pay over the phone using our cashless payment system. To use, register your contact details, car registration, where you have parked and your card details, by calling the number advertised at car parks. www.gwr.com

Swindon in 175 Images

SUMMER 2016

Swindon during the last 150 years Wednesday 9 March - Saturday 16 July

MURDER MYSTERY 21 MAY & 11 JUNE

During the evening there will be plots unmasked, intrigue & even murder(s). Who Dunnit and Why?

2031

May June

© P&Co. Ltd./SC 2015 Licensed on behalf of Studiocanal S.A. by Copyrights Group

FREE train travel for child ren who bring their Teddy Bear plus a family teddy bea r trail and craft activities

2025

14 & 15 MAY ™ Come and see Paddington at intervals throughout the weekend

TEDDY BEARS’ PI CNIC 10 JULY

1132 July

FAMILY FUN WITH

MAY

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

(All events subject to change or cancellation without prior notice).

THE PINES EXPRESS THREE COURSE*

19 JUNE (FATHERS DAY) & 28 AUGUST A delicious three course meal with coffee & mints

TWO COURSE* 8 & 29 MAY, 3 & 24 JULY A delicious two course meal with coffee & mints

*

Pre-booking is essential for all our dining trains

THE RAILWAY CHILDREN

24 & 25 AUGUST

See a unique performance of Chapterhouse Theatre’s open air production... with a real steam engine!

Evening performance with limited tickets:

1098

Enjoy a wide selection of real ales from around the country

august

3 & 4 JUNE

1098

june

13TH BITTON BEER FESTIVAL

pre-booking essential

Tel: 0117 932 5538 www.avonvalleyrailway.org Bitton Railway Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol BS30 6HD

SEE BRITAIN BY BOAT & TRAIN

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery, Bath Road, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4BA www.swindonmuseumandartgallery.org.uk t: 01793 466556 e: smag@swindon.gov.uk FREE entry Open Wed – Sat, 11am – 3pm Angela Janet Richens, Upper Snodshill Farm, Oil on Canvas, 25 x 48 cm, © Angela Janet Richens Sponsored by

WINDSOR BOAT TRIPS & CHARTERS FROM WINDSOR PROMENADE DAILY frenchbrothers.co.uk

01753 827345

THE GUIDE

2FOR1 DAYS OUT HOW TO GET YOUR OFFER

Great Western Railway is offering hundreds of fantastic 2FOR1 savings on top attractions, hotels, restaurants and more when you travel by train.

So what’s your next stop going to be?

A trip to Ripley's Believe It or Not!?

Westminster Abbey? Kew Gardens?

To take advantage of these offers all you need to do is

1 Visit daysoutguide.co.uk

4 Print your 2FOR1 voucher

2 Browse the list of offers

3 Click ‘Claim offer’ on the one you like

Kew Gardens in Richmond

SPECIAL OFFERS Great Western Railway has a range of great special offers.

Check them out on our website at gwr.com Railcards Railcards offer value for money if you travel by train, saving you one-third off most standard rail tickets (time restrictions may apply).

There are different types of railcard, starting at £10, and they are valid for 12 months.

46 | escape

Eurostar We’ve teamed up with Eurostar to offer you the chance to buy a ticket from your UK destination through to the continent, making it easier to travel and giving you the best value for money.

5 Present the vouchers together with your National Rail train tickets at the attraction. (For full details visit daysoutguide.co.uk/faq)

HOW ARE WE DOING? Contact us at gwr.feedback@gwr.com or call us on 03457 000 125 (07:00 to 22:00 every day) with any questions, concerns or feedback.

We’d love to hear from you.

National Rail Enquiries To find out all the latest service updates on all train operating companies, call National Rail Enquiries on 03457 48 49 50.

Or you can check online at nationalrail.co.uk

Customer Panel Great Western Railway’s customer panel provides us with valuable customer feedback.

Contact your local customer panel member, who will help convey your comments. Email: customer.panel@firstgroup.com transport Focus The independent National Rail consumer watchdog can be contacted at transportfocus.org.uk www.gwr.com

AS THE LONGEST HERITAGE RAILWAY IN ENGLAND WE ARE MILE FOR MILE BETTER VALUE CELEBRATING YEARS

OF STEAMING TO THE SEASIDE

OAD OU NL

PP RA

DOW

40

Take a steam journey through the Quantock Hills and along the Bristol Channel Coast.

www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk or telephone 01643 704996

BOOK PUBLISHING

Battersea Park Children’s Zoo... who will you see?

Authors invited to submit manuscripts all categories including poetry

New Authors welcome A.H. STOCKWELL LTD Dept. 833, Torrs Park, Ilfracombe, Devon, EX34 8BA.

Tel: 01271 862557 www.ahstockwell.co.uk Publishers for 100 Years

From cheeky monkeys to leaping lemurs, noisy otters to snuffling coatis, who will you come face to face with?

Plus our fun play area for kids of all ages!

r Visit oue websit

Tel: 020 7924 5826

Battersea Park, Chelsea Bridge Gate Battersea London SW11 4NJ

www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk we’re passionate about wildlife

The 125mph fine dining restaurant.

Imagine a restaurant where the menu is a locally sourced, second-to-none creation by an award-winning chef.

One with silver service in a dining room where you can take in hundreds of miles of the most beautiful countryside and coastline in the British Isles.

If our Pullman dining service didn’t already exist we’d have to invent it.

Created by celebrated chef, Mitch Tonks, our exquisite menu is teeming with the finest, freshest produce our region has to offer. All accompanied by the most quaffable wine list on rails.

So proud are we of the Pullman, we’ve

recently

increased

our

offering to twelve daily services to and from London Paddington, Swansea and Plymouth. Giving First Class passengers the chance to dine in style, and food lovers everywhere a new culinary destination.

For Pullman menus and reservations, visit GWR.com/Pullman

THE RETURN OF GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY 48 | escape

www.gwr.com

SAFETY INFORMATION FOR PASSENGERS SEATED IN COACHES A, K AND THE BUFFET CAR, PLEASE CHECK YOUR NEAREST SAFETY POSTER FOR ADDITIONAL EVACUATION INSTRUCTIONS IF IT IS NECESSARY TO MOVE FROM YOUR COACH AND IT IS SAFE TO REMAIN ON THE TRAIN, MOVE TO ANOTHER COACH

These instructions are provided for your safety in the event of an emergency.

If there is no immediate danger, await instructions from on train staff.

It is important that you familiarise yourself with the location of emergency equipment.

EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROCEDURES EMERGENCY ALARM – TO STOP THE TRAIN IN AN EMERGENCY Locate the red emergency alarm handle and pull sharply towards you. This will immediately apply the train brakes. Please locate a member of staff and explain your reasons for operating the alarm

LIGHT STICKS – DURING AN EMERGENCY, IF THE LIGHTING ON THE TRAIN FAILS

Locate the 'Emergency light sticks' box

Pull sharply on the box where indicated on the label

Light sticks will then be removed OR be activated, which as required can either remain in the boxes

EMERGENCY ESCAPE – INTERNAL SLIDING DOORS If it is safe to remain on the train, move to another coach.

Do not take personal belongings with you

If the internal sliding door will not open, lift the emergency release cover where marked (situated in the top corner of the door)

SAFETY DIAGRAM FOR COACHES B, C, D, E, F, L, AND M

Using the Pull Tab, pull the locking strip to the opposite bottom corner of the door

IF IT IS NOT SAFE TO REMAIN ON THE TRAIN Once the train is stationary, leave through the coach doors

Using the horizontal panel, push the window fully out

BEFORE LEAVING THE TRAIN Be aware of other moving trains and any potential hazards

ONCE OFF THE TRAIN

Move to a safe location, away from the tracks.

Await instructions from train staff.

Do not step on or touch any rail

www.gwr.com

Strike cover of emergency release with fist

Remove cover and pull handle

Open the door fully, then leave the train

Use the offset steps or sit on the edge and lower yourself to the ground

escape | 49

give me five The comedy ventriloquist tells us about his love of Seinfeld, cracking America, and his ideal country pub

PAUL ZERDIN

Paul pictured with a couple of his characters

How did you get involved in ventriloquism?

I’ve been doing magic and playing with puppets since I was about nine or 10.

I was given Ray Alan’s book on ventriloquism and I learned it quite easily. Eventually I phased out magic and introduced comedy and ventriloquism to my act.

In 1996, I won ITV’s Big Big Talent Show presented by Jonathan Ross. It opened a lot of doors for me and I started doing royal variety shows, summer seasons in Blackpool, pantomimes and the comedy circuit – all sorts really.

d

: and also

50

|

K

What inspired you to audition for America’s Got Talent 2015?

I fancied the challenge of tackling the American market. I thought I’d have a go and if it didn’t work, it would be back to business as usual.

I’ve entertained audiences all over the world so knew my material worked for US crowds. I never expected to, but I won it.

The opportunities that have arisen since have been incredible.

I’m doing gigs in places I would never get to go to normally, so I’m very grateful.

K

How did you come up with your characters Sam, Grandfather Albert and Baby?

I’m a people watcher and I remember what I used to get up to as a kid. Albert’s character looks at the funny side of growing old and the problems that can arise from it.

The same goes for Sam. As a burgeoning teenager he’s very like a spongy version of Bart Simpson and is constantly trying to see how far he can go.

As the younger sibling, Baby looks up to Sam and is often led astray by him.

What entertainers do you look up to?

Jeff Dunham is probably the best ventriloquist I’ve ever seen in America.

Ray Alan and his character Lord Charles were very successful and technically, he’s the greatest ventriloquist I’ve ever seen.

I love Jerry Seinfeld, the show, its format and all of its different characters. I enjoy a real mixture of acts from Laurel and Hardy and Morecambe and Wise to Tommy Cooper and The Goons. Bob Monkhouse is one of my comedy heroes.

Could you describe your ideal day out on GWR? I love spending time in America but there’s nothing better than coming home to southwest London.

My ideal day out would involve getting the train to either London’s west end or a country pub. I live in Wimbledon village and there’s a lovely pub by the common called The Crooked Billet.

I enjoy taking the train – you can just sit looking at your iPad and relax.

As I get older, I appreciate train travel a lot more.

Paul made his TV debut as a magician on the BBC’s Tricky Business and shortly afterwards landed a two-year contract presenting the kids’ programme Rise and Shine for GMTV. Paul met his hero Jerry Seinfeld by chance in a New York diner the morning after winning America’s Got Talent.

Paul is now in talks over his own US sitcom, which he describes as Seinfeld meets The Muppets.

Keep up to date with Paul’s latest news and tour dates by visiting paulzerdin.com

escape

K

K

www.gwr.com

BIT XHI E EW A N ACIT Y E AT S

ION

T R PO N O T T P U O THAM U O S E M HO

THE AGE OF THE OCEAN LINER 25 MARCH 2016 – 4 JUNE 2017 SEACITYMUSEUM.CO.UK