Escape Issue 21

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THE BEST SHOPS S FUN FAIRS sMUSICALS sMUSacEUM ) g in GALLERIES sSHEEP RACING (Yes ! Shee p r MUCH MORE!

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: T ’TIS BU H A FLESD! WOUN

Ge t a MEDIEVAELR MAKEOV

CREATED BY

WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE WITH

SOHO THEATRE, DANIEL SPARROW PRODUCTIONS & BIRDSONG PRODUCTIONS

STARRING

CAROLINE SHEEN

DAVID THAXTON

MARY POPPINS LES MISÉRABLES

LES MISÉRABLES LOVE NEVER DIES

Book by Rachel Wagstaff Music by Matthew Brind Directed by Steve Marmion Original concept by Steve Coleman, Matthew Brind & Rachel Wagstaff

wmc.org.uk 029 2063 6464

28 MAR - 2 APR 2016

IN THIS ISSUE

G 2016 SPRIN

REACHING ACROSS OUR NETWORK – THIS IS YOUR ESCAPE ROUTE

ILLUSTRATION: KERRY HYNDMAN

TURN THE PAGE...

09 NEXT STOP We seek out fantastic shows, events and exhibitions, as well as our pick of the best racecourses 14 around the world in 14 artefacts From an Egyptian pharaoh in London to Oxford’s deceased dodo, our globetrotting look at the finest antiquities to be found in museums across the network 22 the good bookshop guide Start writing a new chapter on your reading habits at these independent tome traders 29 TOP FARE Restaurateur Mitch Tonks takes a walk on the wild side and tucks into great cuisine on the way

FIND US ONLINE www.gwr.com

30 family fun days out Kids and grown-ups alike will have an amazing time at these adventurous attractions, guaranteed to make the most of the spring season 38 WHY WE LOVE… Bath, the beautiful city once home to Romans and royalty 41 kids’ page Paddington Bear presents puzzles and brainteasers 43 THE GUIDE Our handy guide will tell you all you need to know about travelling with Great Western Railway 50 GIVE ME FIVE Gyles Brandreth puts his word power into practice on stage

FACEBOOK.COM/GWRUK

OUR 2FOR1 PICKS

City cruises poole Set sail for the wonderful beaches and bays that surround this harbour town

haunted and hidden Uncover the ghosts of Bristol’s past on this spine-tingling walking tour of spooky sites

kew gardens Explore this famous botanic wonderland to discover 250 years of science and history

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

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

WELCOME

G 2016 SPRIN

Take time to wind down at Wells Cathedral 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, Ross Daniel Russell 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

ENJOY GREAT DAYS OUT WITH A DIFFERENCE

I

t’s a pleasure to introduce you to our first issue of Escape for 2016, in what is already shaping up to be an exciting year ahead. With so many great things to see and do along the Great Western Railway we’re looking forward to taking you on plenty of new adventures.

For starters, turn to page 14 as we don our Indiana Jones style fedoras to track down some of the most intriguing historical artefacts to be discovered in museums across the network. From Japanese netsuke figurines to pioneering Russian spacecraft, the wonders of the world are only a train journey away.

If you’re looking to keep your own little treasures occupied this spring, our roundup of fun-filled family days on page 30 is sure to fit the bill.

We’ve gathered together a selection of great activities and attractions to suit

every age, in the city and the great outdoors, with a few medieval knights thrown in for good measure.

After all that action there’s also the opportunity to take a well-deserved breather and curl up with a good book. Read our bookshop guide to find out where to pick up your next page-turner.

Finally, we chat to the extremely well read author and broadcaster Gyles Brandreth as he embarks on a new stage tour, and we’ve all our regular features to keep you up to speed with the biggest and best events around.

WIN

Dan Panes Editor

A DAY FOR FOUR AT NEWBURY RACECOURSE 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

top it all off

Start the year by getting a new perspective on things with a visit to Up at The 02. Put on your climb suit, boots and harness to conquer a prime slice of London's millennial heritage. Your climb guide will tell you all about the impressive view as you make your ascent up the mammoth venue. And what is more, tours can be booked for day or night, giving you an opportunity to see Canary Wharf in all its illuminated glory.

WHAT Up at The 02 WHERE Peninsula Square, London WHEN Open all year round.

Visit bit.ly/upatthe02 for more details

FACT!

The dome's design is based on time: it is 365m in diameter, 52m high in the middle and has 12 supporting poles

6 | escape

www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk

www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk

escape | 7

NEWBURY RACECOURSE PRESENTS

AL SHAQAB LOCKINGE DAY S AT U R D AY 1 4 M AY 2 0 1 6

T H E B E S T D AY O U T

BY A MILE

GET £5 OFF* 01635 40015

newburyracecourse.co.uk *Use online promo code GWR16 for £5 off Premier or Grandstand admission only tickets. Does not include food and drink packages or already discounted tickets. Book before midnight on 30 April 2016.

ANNE GUNNING IN JAIPUR BY NORMAN PARKINSON, 1956 © NORMAN PARKINSON LTD / COURTESY NORMAN PARKINSON ARCHIVE

Next Stop

VOGUE turns 100 British Vogue has been at the forefront of the fashion industry since it launched 100 years ago. The magazine has showcased some of the biggest names in fashion design and photography, and continues to be a barometer for style and taste. This exhibition charts the

magazine’s rise to fame, with works by photographic visionaries such as Cecil Beaton, Lee Miller, Irving Penn and David Bailey.

WHERE NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY WHEN 11 FEBRUARY–22 MAY NEAREST TUBE Leicester Square

Anne Gunning in Jaipur, as photographed by Norman Parkinson

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

escape | 9

NEXT STOP

SMOOTH MOVES

The character Alice was based on the real-life Alice Liddell

THREE DANCE EXTRAVAGANZAS

BILLY ELLIOT THEATRE ROYAL, PLYMOUTH 24 fEBRUARY–2 APRIL

ALICE IN WONDERLAND With Lewis Carroll’s classic in its 150th year, the British Library takes a look at the author’s original illustrated manuscript plus editions by Mervyn Peake, Ralph Steadman and Salvador Dali, among others. A curiouser and curiouser celebration of one of literature’s finest.

WHERE British Library WHEN Until 17 April

From the boxing ring to ballet class, follow the inspirational story of a young boy’s fight to make his dream come true.

NEAREST TUBE King's Cross

billyelliotthemusical.com

FOOTLOOSE THE MUSICAL VARIOUS VENUES, UNTIL 6 AUGUST

WALLACE % GROMIT’S CHILDREN’S FOUNDATION. CHARITY NO. 1043603 SHAUN THE SHEEP % SHAUN IN THE CITY ©% ™ AARDMAN ANIMATIONS LTD 2015

Gareth Gates cuts loose and shakes up small-town America with fancy footwork in this stage adaptation of the popular film. footloose-musical.com

GISELLE ROYAL OPERA HOUSE, LONDON 26 FEBRUARY–15 APRIL

One of ballet’s most romantic works, love conquers death in Marius Petipa’s classic tale of betrayal and the supernatural. roh.org.uk

best of the rest 10 | escape

^ THEATRE

^

AMERICAN IDIOT Various venues, until 22 May Green Day’s hit album gets a musical theatre makeover.

DEATH – THE HUMAN EXPERIENCE Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, until 13 March Don’t fear the reaper …

EXHIBITION

^ COMEDY

EDDIE IZZARD – FORCE MAJEURE Palace Theatre, London, until 20 February The wanderer returns.

^ EVENT

VIRGIN MONEY LONDON MARATHON 24 April Take part in the long run around London town.

^ BOOKS

OXFORD LITERARY FESTIVAL 2–10 April Fine writers and world-class authors speak out.

^ MUSIC

PAUL HEATON & JACQUI ABBOTT Various venues, until 30 March The Beautiful South pair go back on the road.

www.gwr.com

A day at the races is a summer highlight

COMPETITION Cirque du Soleil storm the Albert Hall

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL, AMALUNA Roll up, roll up! Prepare to be dazzled and dumbfounded by feats of strength and agility from the performers of the legendary Cirque du Soleil in their latest live show.

Loosely based on William Shakespeare’s The Tempest, Amaluna sets the bard’s tale ablaze and maroons audiences on a mysterious island governed by goddesses and guided by the cycles of the moon.

WHERE Royal Albert Hall WHEN Until 6 march NEAREST TUBE Green Park

The miraculous Derren Brown

DERREN BROWN The master of illusion and misdirection, Derren Brown takes to the stage with his latest show Miracle. Watch the nation’s favourite trickster as he explores the cult of faith healing, bending the minds of sceptics and believers alike.

WHERE VARIOUS VENUES WHEN Until 16 july

^ SPORT

^ EXHIBITION

^

RBS 6 NATIONS Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, 13, 26 February and 19 March Wales face Scotland, France and Italy.

WAR GAMES City Museum and Art Gallery, Plymouth, until 18 June A fascinating look at conflict's influence on the world of play.

tea trail london Ongoing Horniman Museum's themed walk that tells the story of that very English import.

www.gwr.com

Win a day for four at Newbury Racecourse Newbury Racecourse kicks off an amazing summer of entertainment with one of the biggest horse racing and social events around: Al Shaqab Lockinge Day on the afternoon of Saturday 14 May. It’s a chance to get glammed up and raise a glass of fizz with friends before watching seven adrenaline-fuelled races followed by live music into the evening.

THE PRIZE Tickets for the event are some of the

hottest in racing, and you and three friends could win the chance to enjoy the event and dine in the fabulous Racegoers Restaurant, with spectacular panoramic views of the whole Racecourse. There will even be betting facilities at your table so you can back a winner without leaving your chair.

This superb prize includes Premier Enclosure tickets to Al Shaqab Lockinge Day, a delicious threecourse meal in the Racegoers Restaurant

and a table for the day plus official racecards for the winner and three friends.

HOW TO ENTER To be in with a chance of winning, answer this simple question Q: Which of the following is a famous jockey?

A. Frankie Boyle B. Frankie Dettori C. Frankie Valli Enter at gwr.com/ newburyraces The closing date for competition entries is 22 April.

Competition winner will be jumping for joy

trail

TERMS & CONDITIONS: Prize is non-transferrable to both another event and another winner. Prize cannot be exchanged for cash. No form of travel either to or from the Racecourse is included in the prize. Winner and guests must be over 18.

escape | 11

NEXT STOP

'The Beatles got the white hat, what was left – the black hat' – Keith Richards

What happens on tour…

EXHIBITIONISM: THE ROLLING STONES AT SAATCHI GALLERY, LONDON

Catch up on over 50 years of adventures in excess with Mick, Keef and the gang in this huge new Rolling Stones exhibition.

You'll follow the group’s journey from little-known London blues band to cultural juggernauts still capable of filling stadiums around the globe. A rolling stone gathers no moss, but they certainly pick up plenty of rock ‘n’ roll relics, including iconic costumes, guitars, unseen video footage and original poster and album cover artwork.

WHERE Saatchi Gallery WHEN April–September NEAREST TUBE Sloane Square

12 | escape

www.gwr.com

It's horses for racecourses across the network

DID YOU KNOW?

5 RACE we love

GOOD SELLERS

Film director Martin Scorsese has used the Rolling Stones track Gimme Shelter in at least three of his films so far.

ROCK SCHOOL

Keith Richards and Mick Jagger first met at primary school when they were just five years old, many moons ago.

FIRST BASS

The group’s former bassist Bill Wyman is said to have invented the word ‘groupie’ in 1965 to refer to the band’s devoted female fans.

Our top tips for where to play the ponies

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This most prestigious of jump racing venues is the setting for the Cheltenham Festival, 15–18 March. Horses, jockeys, owners and trainers battle it out for the highest racing honours, their reputations, and over £3.8 million of prize money.

Racegoers flock to Newbury each year to have a flutter and to enjoy some of the fine food and drink on offer. The course attracted a different kind of crowd during the First World War, when it was used as a prisoner-ofwar camp for German captives.

CHELTENHAM

TAKE GWR TRAIN TO CHELTENHAM SPA

thefestival2016.co.uk

www.gwr.com

DAYS NEWBURY

TAKE GWR TRAIN TO

3

4

5

One of only two figure-of-eight courses in the UK, Royal Windsor is located on the banks of the River Thames.

The local area has links to horse racing that date back to the time of Henry VIII, but it wasn’t until 1866 that the first race meeting took place.

For over 200 years the Duke of Richmond’s estate has played host to the sport of kings. The annual Glorious Goodwood meeting is as much about style and socialising as it is about backing the winning horse, making fashionistas the centre of attention.

For punters and bargain hunters alike the going is good at Newton Abbot, because as well as enjoying a busy season of racing, the course hosts regular antiques fairs and car boot sales.

Those not following the form can also unwind in the Winning Post and Paddock restaurants.

ROYAL WINDSOR

NEWBURY

TAKE GWR TRAIN TO

RACECOURSE

WINDSOR AND ETON CENTRAL windsor-racecourse.co.uk

newburyracecourse. co.uk

GOODWOOD

NEWTON ABBOT

TAKE GWR TRAIN TO

TAKE GWR TRAIN TO

CHICHESTER

NEWTON ABBOT

goodwood.com

newtonabbotracing.com

escape | 13

14

IN D L R O W E H T AROUND

S T C A F ARTE

We’ve curated a treasure chest of precious obJects, art and rarities for you to explore at stops on the network

CHINA Chinese Jades llection rdiff, permanent co

National Museum Ca ge cultural years jade has had hu For more than 7,000 d in the stone and all animals carve significance in China th favourable wi e Qing dynasty cam during the Ming and used in re we los wishes. Buffa e symbols messages and good m ca be o als d an il spirits houses to repress ev ring. of agriculture and sp

RUSSIA Vostok 6 descent module

The Science Museum, London Cosmonauts, until 13 March Built in 1963 during the height of the space race, this craft carried cosmonaut Valentina Tereshkova into orbit and back, making her the first woman in history to travel into space. Her mission lasted three days and saw her orbit the Earth 48 times. It would be 20 years before the first female American astronaut, Sally Ride, left the Earth’s atmosphere.

SPAIN Mae West’s Lips Sofa

Art Gallery Brighton Museum & on cti lle co t Permanen centric British Salvador Dali and ec signed this de es Jam rd wa poet Ed ure in 1938. It item of surrealist furnit Abbott and is & was made by Green 20th century’s most considered one of theure. iconic pieces of furnit

BOOK NOW! ...then step behind the scenes to view the world’s largest collection of Doctor Who props, sets and costumes!

DoctorWhoExperience.com 0844 801 2279 (CALLS COST 7P PER MINUTE PLUS NETWORK EXTRAS)

BBC logo © BBC 1996. Doctor Who logo © BBC 2012. TARDIS image © BBC 1963. Licensed by BBC Worldwide.

JOIN THE TWELFTH DOCTOR ON AN INTERACTIVE ADVENTURE...

FRANCE Lady in a Garden, Claude Monet

Royal Academy of Arts, London, Painting the Modern Garden: Monet to Matisse, until 20 April Monet skilfully captures the vivid floral palette of his aunt’s garden at Sainte-Adresse on the Normandy coast in this early painting. It was a place he had a strong personal connection with and somewhere that taught him as much about botany as it did brushwork. As the figurehead of French Impressionist painting, Monet’s art embodied the movement’s principles of working from nature, with a keen eye for the relationship between light and colour.

AUSTRALIA Karntakurlangu Jukurrpa (Women Dreaming), Judy Napangardi Watson Pitt Rivers Museum, Oxford Permanent collection Judy Napangardi Watson is one of the most notable painters from Yuendumu, home to a thriving community of Aboriginal artists in the Northern Territory, Australia. This painting tells the story of a group of women collecting bush tucker, and follows the desert art tradition of using shapes and patterns of dots to represent people, water, stones and animals. www.gwr.com

GREAT BRITAIN Gorgon’s head

Roman Baths, Bath Permanent collection The Gorgon’s Head has beguiled scholars and the public since its discovery in 1790. Believed to be the work of sculptors from Gaul, working in the later first century AD, the quality of the craftsmanship is exceptional. The meaning of this artefact has been a topic of heated debate for 200 years. Some believe it to be the mythical creature killed by the Greek hero Perseus, with the assistance of the goddess Athena.

MAURITIUS The Oxford Dodo

Oxford University Museum of Natural History, permanent collection The dodo has the unenviable honour of being one of the most famous extinct creatures. Discovered by Europeans in 1598, the dodo was a flightless bird that lived on the island of Mauritius before vanishing in 1680. This specimen was originally exhibited in John Tradescant’s London collection. Only the mummified head and foot are left, but they are still the most complete remains of a single dodo in the world. escape | 17

GREECE Elgin Marbles

The British Museum, London Permanent collection Between 1801 and 1805, Lord Elgin, the British ambassador of the Ottoman Empire, of which Athens had been a part for 350 years, removed half of the sculptures decorating the ancient Parthenon temple and transported them to Britain. The arrival of the sculptures in London heralded a significant resurgence in interest in Greek culture.

MEXICO Serpent Mosaic

The British Museum, London Permanent collection Many believe this precious artefact, created in Aztec Mexico, was used during religious ceremonies. A high level of workmanship is evident in the different shades of turquoise stones glimmering throughout the object. The Aztecs revered snakes, which they thought symbolised the serpent god Quetzalcoatl. Aztecs offered gifts to their emperor to validate their loyalty.

18 | escape

JAPAN Netsuke

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery Death: the human experience, until 13 March This Japanese netsuke (pronounced net-ské) is a symbol of death, intricately carved from ivory. The figure is a cadaver in a loincloth and lotus-leaf hat. Buddhist monks meditate on the different stages of decomposition, known as the nine cemetery contemplations. The aim of this practice is to lead to the understanding that no one is bound to his or her body forever.

INDIA Tipu’s Tiger

Victoria & Albert Museum, London Permanent collection Designed in 1808, Tipu’s Tiger is a life-sized creation commissioned by Tipu, the Sultan of Mysore. A crank-handle-operated pipe organ simulates the tiger's growls and victim's cries.

The wooden casing is Indian, but the mechanism indicates the participation of French artisans. It is thought Tipu was inspired by real-life events involving the death of General Sir Hector Munro’s son, killed by a tiger. www.gwr.com

D II S C O V E RR D O RR S E TT D S C O V E D O S E D I S C O V E R D O R S E T D I SFF C O V E R D O R S E T RR O M A B O V E O M A B O V E FF RR O M A B O V EE O M A B O V Experience Experience uninterrupted uninterrupted 360째 360째 views views Experience uninterrupted 360째 views of the Jurassic Coast Experience uninterrupted 360째 views of the Jurassic Coast of the Jurassic Coast of the Jurassic Coast Book Book Now Now at at Jurassicskyline.com Jurassicskyline.com

EGYPT Ramesses II

CALLING DOCTOR JONES

The British Museum, London Permanent collection This statue was built to portray the pharaoh as a compassionate leader, a formidable warrior and a living deity. It was placed in the Ramesseum, Ramesses II’s mortuary temple, where the cult of Ramesses flourished for centuries. He was a prosperous ruler and fathered 85 children during his 66-year reign.

He is regarded as one of the greatest Egyptian pharaohs, which historians attribute to his significant skills as a self-publicist. Ramesses built more statues than any other pharaoh and changed the inscriptions of his predecessors’ statues to deify himself.

National Museum Cardiff

Treasures: Adventures in Archaeology, 26 January–30 October This exhibition tells the stories behind famous archaeological discoveries from the ancient civilisations of Egypt and Greece, to pre-Columbian America and Easter Island. The show uncovers the impact of archaeological discoveries on popular culture and boasts a treasure trove of gems including the whip, hat and jacket worn by the world’s favourite tomb raider, Indiana Jones. Crystal skulls that featured in Indy’s 2008 adventure will also be on display.

KENYA Gerald the Giraffe

Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter Permanent collection Affectionately known as Gerald, this adult male giraffe has been one of the museum’s most beloved attractions since 1920. He is a bull giraffe and would have been a remarkable animal when alive. In 1901, Gerald had a fatal encounter with big game hunter, Charles Victor Alexander Peel, at Moshi, on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. After being shipped to London, Gerald was mounted by the famous taxidermy firm, Rowland Ward Ltd.

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NORTH AMERICA Twenty Fuchsia Maos, Andy Warhol

The Ashmolean Museum, Oxford Andy Warhol: Works from the Hall Collection, 4 February–15 May Painted in 1979 as a commercial response to America’s growing interest in China, Twenty Fuchsia Maos is one of Warhol’s more political works. The bright pink gives the composition a confectionery quality, effectively lampooning the controversial politician, which would have landed the rebellious artist in prison in China. www.gwr.com

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BOOKSHOPS

LRB is a dream of a bookshop

Literary lovers GET YOUR FICTION FIX AT THESE GREAT BOOKSHOPS Author Neil Gaiman once said, ‘A book is a dream that you hold in your hand’.

We reckon he could be onto something.

If ever there was a bookshop that felt like a dream, the London Review Bookshop in Bloomsbury would be that place. The friendly staff know everything there is to know about literature and should you try to bamboozle them with a tricky request, they’ll do their utmost to find you what you’re looking for. Over 20,000 titles are nestled in this magical place. There’s also a cake shop that serves cups of nice things and slices of mouth-watering quiche alongside the sweet stuff.

‘What’s in a name?’ asked Billy Shakespeare – oh you know, only EVERYTHING. Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights in Bath wouldn’t even need to sell books and we’d still trundle along to pay them a visit with a name like that.

The fact is that they do sell plenty of literature and in one of the warmest bookshop environments we’ve ever seen, complete with fireplaces and cosy leather chairs. Mr B’s is a familyrun business and a quirky, charming, home away from home for book lovers.

22 | escape

Mr B's offers readers some bibliotherapy

Art books upstairs at Mr B's www.gwr.com

www.gwr.com

escape | 23

BOOKSHOPS

Around the world

FANTASTIC FESTIVALS

TRAVEL writing BROADENS THE MIND

literary dates for your diary

In the words of Bill Bryson, ‘The greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time’.

If you’ve never stepped inside Daunt Books in Marylebone London before, then prepare yourself for said experience. A bookshop that welcomes readers, travellers and the curious, Daunt Books is an inspiring Edwardian shop that arranges its titles principally by country, whether fiction or non-fiction. It makes for completely individual book browsing and you’ll feel like a globetrotter by the time you leave.

‘Not all those who wander are lost', wrote J.R.R. Tolkien. Especially not when you’re on a mission to destroy the One Ring of the Dark Lord Sauron... Hopefully, your trip to Stanfords in Bristol will be a) merrier and b) quicker than that of the Fellowship. Stanfords is the ultimate one stop shop for the travelling enthusiast, with maps, books, travel accessories and globes all under one roof.

Bath Literature Festival 27 February– 8 March bathfestivals.org.uk

Step into a land of magic

Oxford Literary Festival 2–10 April oxfordliterary festival.org

Caption

Hay Festival Hay-on-Wye 26 May–5 June hayfestival.com Crime Writing Festival Harrogate 21–24 July harrogateinterational festivals.com

Daunt's world of books

Young at heart give kids the gift of good reading 'Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.’ Roald Dahl, we couldn’t agree more. A top tip before visiting the enchanting Tales on Moon Lane in South East London is to sprinkle a healthy dose of fairy dust over your own head and shoulders and those of your little ones too, if you’re treating the children to a story-time picnic at this award-winning independent bookshop. The ever-changing window display bursts with imagination and inside this shop’s four walls adventure awaits, not just for kids but for grown-ups too.

Channel your inner sea captain/ pirate/mermaid and pay The Book Nook in Hove a well-deserved visit. ‘I love to sail

24 | escape

forbidden seas, and land on barbarous coasts’, wrote Herman Melville in Moby-Dick, and while your journey to The Book Nook might not be quite as treacherous, it is only a short walk away from the beach. The reason this place is so special is because it looks after both children and parents well.

There’s a cosy café where visitors can relax, and author events are also held here throughout the year.

The Book Nook in Hove

www.gwr.com

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UniversityRooms offers great value visitor accommodation in cities throughout the UK, and you don’t need to be a student to book! Whether you are looking to stay in a historic Oxford college or a modern room within striking distance of central Bath, then you’ll find something to suit your needs. www.universityrooms.com

Houses of Parliament Houses of Parliament

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parliament.uk/visiting 020 7219 4114

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PEN Z A N CE

Reopening 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.

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BOOKSHOPS

Blackwell's in Oxford: trading since 1879

TOP 5 BOOKS THIS SPRING

The Widow

by Fiona Barton.

Tipped to match the success of Gone Girl and The Girl on the Train.

A God in Ruins

by Kate Atkinson.

The stand-alone follow-up to the best-selling Life After Life.

The Noise of Time

by Julian Barnes.

The new novel from the Man Booker Prize winner.

The Buried Giant

by Kazuo Ishiguro.

From the author of Never Let Me Go and The Remains of the Day. Quentin Blake: In the Theatre of the Imagination

by Ghislaine Kenyon.

An intimate portrait of the working life of Quentin Blake. Out in hardback 10 March.

Bright sparks

feed your head at an academic bookshop

'You can never be overdressed or overeducated', said Oscar Wilde, which is just as well, as we’ll use any excuse to put on our Sunday best and head to Blackwell’s in Oxford. Even if you’re not one for a spot of serious reading, Blackwell’s is absolutely worth visiting.

Specialists in university textbooks, business, economics, law and more, this bookshop is a beautiful place to while away the hours. It is also unexpectedly huge inside.

Thinking is the motto and beating heart behind the independent family-run bookshop in Plymouth called The University Bookseller.

There’s a relaxed feel about this place that makes visiting such a pleasure. ‘The first-rate mind is only happy when it is thinking’, wrote AA Milne, and we’re quite happy to do some thinking here. www.gwr.com

Gosh! What a lot of graphic novels

Visualise this

comic strips for readers of all ages David Almond penned this to paper: ‘Drawing makes you look at the world more closely. It helps you to see what you’re looking at more clearly.’ For fans of graphic novels, this quote will surely resonate. At Gosh! Comics in Soho, London you’ll find both long-form fictional and non-

Shelves of strips on sale at Gosh!

fictional bodies of work. Their vast selection of graphic novels, manga, children’s books and comics makes them a favourite for fans of these genres. Gosh! also host a monthly Drink and Draw event where you can channel your inner artistic muse and doodle the night away.

escape | 27

Bring the family to...

Bring the family to...

CORNWALL CORNWALL Spectacular self catering retreats in the superb surroundings of St Ives, Cornwall 01736 630015 | carbisbayholidays.co.uk 01736 630015 | www.carbisbayholidays.co.uk/em carbisbayholidays.co.uk Carbis Bay_Escape_Spr_16.indd 1

05/01/2016 12:01

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

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06/01/2016 17:38

RECIPE

Zuppa da pescatore (Fishermen’s Stew) YOU WILL NEED

TOP FARE

Mitch’s stew will stimulate your senses

BY MITCH TONKS

STROLLING TO SUPPER

wake your appetite with a good walk up at the fantastic seafood restaurant Beach House, which offers views of the sea.

Jurassic coast

Late winter is the perfect time to embrace the dark nights.

Pick a clear evening and go for a moonlight walk – you’ll agree, it’s just wonderful.

So I’m going to suggest a few walks that always inspire me down in the South West.

And of course, my walks involve a stop at a great café, pub or restaurant on the way.

Bantham to South Milton Sands

This is a beautiful piece of the South West Coast Path, with a sandy beach and a view out across to Burgh Island.

Stunning! Make sure you wind

There is something for everyone here: a gentle stroll from Marine Parade to The Cobb, or a serious walk taking in some of the historic coastline. Either way, head to Mark Hix’s Oyster and Fish House at Lyme Regis. It’s a beautiful restaurant with a bird’s eye view of The Cobb and the sea.

The Camel estuary and The Mariners

This is a circular walk starting in Rock and then around the Camel estuary, ending up at the Mariners, Nathan Outlaw’s terrific public house.

It’s the perfect place for good beer and great seafood.

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

www.gwr.com

Brixham coastline and Shoals

This one’s close to home for me. I can quite easily get up and walk the dog around Berry Head every morning.

It’s hard to think of a view I’ve come to love more. Often, the rough waters make you so aware of what our fishermen go through to bring us great seafood. If it is open, the outdoor pool is perfect for a springtime swim. Follow it with a lunch at Shoals, which is a great place to eat – and run by a fisherman too!

A stunning sunset over Brixham Marina

1 shallot, finely chopped 2 cloves of garlic, chopped Olive oil 2 roasted tomatoes Pinch of saffron 3 or 4 sprigs of thyme A splash of Pernod or anise A selection of fish – ask your fishmonger what is in season and at its best, buy enough for four and to fill the pan packed tightly in one layer 200ml white wine and 200ml fish stock Sea salt Parsley or basil chopped, for sprinkling over the top For the Aioli

2 egg yolks 1 tsp Dijon mustard 4 cloves of garlic, pasted 150ml/5fl oz good olive oil Juice of ½ lemon Sea salt To make the aioli

Put the egg yolks in a bowl with the mustard and garlic. While whisking add the olive oil in a steady stream until a thick emulsion is formed.

Add the lemon juice, season, and let it stand an hour before serving.

To make the zuppa

In a large pan, sweat the shallots and garlic in olive oil. Add the tomatoes, saffron and thyme and stir together.

Add the Pernod and tip the pan away from you, allowing it to catch fire and burn off the alcohol. Add the wine and simmer gently for 2 minutes.

Add the fish and enough fish stock to just cover it. Simmer for 8-10 minutes. Remove the thyme and season. Sprinkle with chopped herbs and accompany with grilled bread topped with rich, garlicky aioli.

Enjoy with grilled bread to serve.

30 | escape

www.gwr.com

Spring into action with Elizabeth Mistry’s pick of the best activities and attractions for kids of all ages

FAMILY

FUN DAYS OUT Wow the whizz kids HERE BE JOUSTING Expect a full battle each day at the Glastonbury Medieval Fayre, 26–27 March. Encounter hundreds of re-enactors, costumed knights and wenches, and try your hand at some old fashioned games.

PRICE Admission charges for adults and children include entrance to the Abbey. Essential carers go free.

WEBSITE glastonburymedievalfayre. co.uk NEAREST GWR STATION Castle Cary

Lydeard at lunchtime for a leisurely 90-minute journey to Minehead.

PRICE Return tickets: Adults £29, children £15 and £65 for a family of two adults and two children.

WEBSITE westsomersetrailway.vticket. co.uk NEAREST GWR STATION Taunton

FULL STEAM AHEAD West Somerset Railway runs a Fish and Chip Special on 23 April (St George’s Day), leaving Bishops

TURN OVER! www.gwr.com

SENSATIONAL SHEEP RACING, FABULOUS FOSSIL FINDING, AND RUGBY SPECTATING

escape | 31

Spring 2016 IN AT-BRISTOL SCIENCE CENTRE Join us for a host of holiday fun at half term and Easter

Unleash Your Inner Inventor

Make Light Sabre Sound Ef fects

Book online at-bristol.org.uk A registered charity (no. 1049954)

Get Wild In Nature Lab Enjoy hundreds of hands-on activities including our new Planetarium shows

!

FAMILY UN DAYS OUF T PORT OF CALL Come rain or shine, Bristol Harbour is always a good bet. If it is too wet to climb aboard The Matthew – a marvellous replica wooden ship moored alongside the M Shed Museum at Princess Quay – pop into the nearby Planetarium inside the giant silver ball for a spot of stargazing. Take a swimsuit too, as the fountain outside is catnip to kids!

PRICE Daily shows cost an extra £2 (2D) or £3 (3D).

3D only available for ages 6+.

WEBSITE at-bristol.org.uk NEAREST GWR STATION

Bristol Temple Meads

The Matthew, a replica of the ship that sailed to North America in 1497

OWL POST HAS ARRIVED Harry Potter fans will want to save up their Galleons for this very special treat at Wheatley Birds of Prey. All the birds at this family-run aviary are well-kept and thrilling to see close up.

PRICE One to one handling sessions last 60 minutes and are £20 per person. Hawk Walks last two hours and cost £50.

WEBSITE wheatleybirdsofprey.com NEAREST GWR STATION Oxford

Fossil fun at The Charmouth Heritage Centre

JURASSIC BOAST Can you tell the difference between an ammonite and a belemnite? The Charmouth Heritage Centre teaches children how to collect and identify fossils sustainably, as well as how to stay safe while doing so.

Fossil walks on the beach take place on Saturdays and Sundays www.gwr.com

and every day during school holidays (subject to tide times).

Remember to take old clothes and suitable footwear.

PRICE Adults £7.50, children £3.

WEBSITE charmouth.org/chcc NEAREST GWR STATION Exeter or Weymouth (then take X51 or X53 Jurassic Coast shuttle)

NAUTICAL BUT NICE Falmouth is not only home to the world's third-largest natural harbour, it also hosts the National Maritime Museum Cornwall.

Once you have enjoyed the exhibits, stroll over to the RNLI Lifeboat Station for a free tour (donations gratefully received).

Subject to boat availability, children

Owl be seeing you

can visit the kit room and board the offshore lifeboat stationed at the adjacent pontoon. Wheelchair access to the pontoon is at high tide only.

WEBSITE nmmc.co.uk NEAREST GWR STATIONS Falmouth Town (NMMC), Falmouth Docks (RNLI)

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FAMILY UN DAYS OUF T

Lovely for little’uns

EWE’LL LIKE IT Spring wouldn't be spring without lambs and The Big Sheep, near Bideford, Devon, has plenty of little woolly darlings on site, as well as piglets and puppies. Special events (like sheep racing!) take place on selected dates during the year.

Open during February half term and then everyday from 25 March, 10am–6pm.

PRICE Adults and children £12.95.

Under 3ft and essential carers go free.

WEBSITE thebigsheep.co.uk NEAREST GWR STATION Barnstaple

Fastest sheep in the west www.gwr.com

EAT AND BE MERRY Head to Exeter Festival of South West Food and Drink, 22–24 April, for an annual event that’s a huge hit with kids. They will especially enjoy 'Little Cookies', a dedicated programme of events – including storytelling, cooking classes and recycling workshops – that runs alongside all the tasting opportunities you could ever wish for.

PRICE Adult day ticket £8, children £6.

WEBSITE exeterfoodanddrink festival.co.uk NEAREST GWR STATION

Exeter St David's

ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRY Surrounded by woodland – and grounds that are perfect for playing hide and seek in – Pentillie Castle has something to offer children of all ages, with some newly created forest pathways particularly suited to pint-sized explorers. A range

of special events take place throughout the year and the estate welcomes dogs on leads, with some paths suitable for wheelchairs and buggies.

PRICE Adults £6. Under 12s go free.

WEBSITE pentillie.co.uk NEAREST GWR STATION Plymouth (then take number 12 Bus)

A treasure trove

UP AND of oddities DOWN Fancy attending a very special party on the beach on 2 April?

The volunteers who run Babbacombe's unique funicular – which ferries locals and visitors from the cliff top down to Oddicombe Beach – will be celebrating the vertical railway's 90th birthday with free family fun on the sandy stretch below.

Operates daily, 10am–3.55pm.

PRICE Adults £2, children (aged 2-16) £1.40, wheelchair users and essential carers go free.

WEBSITE babbacombecliff railway.co.uk NEAREST GWR STATION: Torquay

SHELL OUT One of the quirkiest buildings in the South West is the Tardis-like A la Ronde, a 16-sided home built to

house the treasures amassed by a pair of sisters who made a grand tour of Europe in the 18th century. Family activities in the school holidays and a café make it an exciting – and tasty – destination.

Open daily from February, 11am–5pm. Arrive by bike (or other green transport) and receive a £1 voucher to use in the shop or café.

PRICE Adults £8, children £4, family ticket (one adult, up to three kids) £12. National Trust members go free.

WEBSITE nationaltrust.org. uk/a-la-ronde NEAREST GWR STATION Exmouth

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FAMILY FTUN DAYS OU

Inspire teen spirits

Cruise control English Holiday Cruises run Rhine-style cruise holidays in the Severn Vale on their four-star hotel boat Edward Elgar. The journeys include superb views, guided tours at every destination, a convivial atmosphere and a complete hospitality package.

WEBSITE englishholidaycruises.co.uk NEAREST GWR STATION Gloucester

Take some time out this spring

STAY IN, CHILL OUT The eco-minded Bedruthan Steps Hotel offers spa sessions for parents and teens over 16, as well as an in-house childcare facility.

PRICE Family spas are £190 for four hours, including two treatments.

WEBSITE bedruthan.com NEAREST GWR STATION

Bodmin Parkway

GET MOVING ON A TRAMPER Suitable for age 14+, these all-terrain scooters make exploring off the beaten track a little bit easier for anyone with mobility issues.

They are available at a number of locations, including the National Trust site Brean Down.

PRICE From £2.50 per hour or free, depending on the location.

WEBSITE countrysidemobility.org

The smallest city in England after City of London

Take in a Six Nations rugby match

wells is swell

The Somerset city is a history lover's dream It may be England's smallest city but Wells has so much to see and do that a day trip is hardly enough. Its medieval streets and picturesque Vicar's Close have changed very little in the eight centuries since they were built.

History buffs will want to linger in the cathedral and mooch around the Bishop's Palace, where a flock of swans has learned to ring a bell on the wall of the moat to tell their wardens when they are hungry.

Wednesday is market day and the traffic gets

36 | escape

MEET YOUR MATCH It can be a bit of a scrum managing a team of sports-mad kids but rugby fans will be in heaven if you bag them a seat at one of the Six Nations Championship games at Cardiff's Principality Stadium.

Formerly known as the Millennium Stadium, the Welsh capital's premier sports venue will host Wales v Ireland on 7 February, Wales v Scotland on 13 February and Wales v France on 26 February.

WEBSITE rbs6nations.com NEAREST GWR STATION Cardiff

busy as stallholders ply their wares. Older kids and teens might prefer instead to download the Hot Fuzz trail app and scope out the local locations used in the cult film.

When you all need feeding, there are plenty of options to

choose from. Why not order a ploughman's lunch made with local cheddar cheese, named after the famous deep gorge just 20 miles away.

If you are heading out of town, the limestone caves at Wookey Hole are likely to appeal to kids who enjoy Minecraft. And the links to the Romans – who chose to settle in Wells because of the quality of the spring water – mean that you'll be helping them with their homework without them even realising.

NEAREST GWR STATION Castle Cary (take a connecting bus) www.gwr.com

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 www.gwr.com

escape | 37

ADVERTISING FEATURE

make your 2016 holiday in cornwall the best yet

I

IMAGE BY GEMMA BURLEIGH, COURTESY OF WILD FOOD FORAGING

magine a holiday in Cornwall that delivers the perfect blend of activities, exclusive adventures, indulgence and relaxation.

Where we do the work so you don’t have to.

No big groups. No queues. No set itinerary. No internet search engine lottery. Just you and yours, a tailor-made itinerary, high quality experiences, and lasting memories.

Enjoy new experiences, learn new skills, discover Cornwall from air or sea, tone up and improve your fitness and enjoy every minute

with those you care about. Leave the research, due diligence, booking and management of your payments to us.

Combining watersports, walking, climbing, sailing, art, fishing, culinary activities, and much more we arrange exclusive bespoke activity holidays to include everything you want and nothing more.

For the best holiday you can have in 2016, contact us today. e: jane@livelocaluk.com t: 07411 117294

w: livelocaluk.com

IMAGE COURTESY OF SAM SMART, SMART SURF SCHOOL

34 | escape

www.gwr.com

Thermae Bath Spa, the UK's only natural thermal spa

The Georgian architecture of Royal Crescent

WHY WE9

Inside the city of Bath's famous Roman Baths

bath

Do as the Romans did and take in the waters at this great spa city WHY GO THERE?

Once home to a Roman goddess, medieval kings and Georgian high society, Bath is a historical melting pot and the only UK city to be designated a World Heritage site

by UNESCO. Bath's geothermal hot springs have attracted visitors for thousands of years and still prove popular with contemporary visitors looking for the perfect spa break.

WHERE DO I START?

The heart of the city is undoubtedly the incredibly well-preserved Roman Baths, constructed around 70 AD as a grand bathing and socialising complex. After taking in your spectacular surroundings you can get a real taste of Bath by downing a glass of the famous waters, containing over 42 minerals and believed to have rejuvenating powers.

did you know?

38 | escape

WHERE SHOULD I KIP?

Experience elegant 18th-century grandeur at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. This establishment lies in the middle of a sweeping crescent of Grade I listed Georgian houses.

WHAT’S HIP?

See Grayson Perry’s The Vanity of Small Differences at the Victoria Art Gallery, running until 10 April.

IF I DO ONE THING?

Take a dip in Thermae Bath Spa and discover why the Romans felt these hot waters were the work of the gods.

The first postage stamp, the Penny Black, was used in Bath in 1840

only in bath Visit The Jane Austen Centre to find out how Bath’s most famous resident took inspiration from the city.

Budding Mr Darcys and Elizabeth Bennets can don Regency costumes and enjoy a pot of real leaf tea with some homemade cake.

1

janeausten.co.uk

Bite into a Sally Lunn bun, Bath’s very own baked delicacy.

This sweet treat has been a local favourite for hundreds of years and is so well-regarded that the Sally Lunn's Eating House is named in honour of the bun.

2

Jane Austen Centre

3 Established in

1995, the Bath Literature Festival has become a firm fixture in the national literary calendar. This year’s event takes place from 26 February to 6 March and will welcome an impressive lineup of authors, poets, actors and top comedians.

sallylunns.co.uk

bathfestivals.org. uk/literature

Sally Lunn bun www.gwr.com

By day or by night, come rain or shine...

To watch our Spa video, please scan the QR code or visit our website

...bathe and relax in Bath’s natural thermal Spa Open daily from 09.00 – 21.30 www.ThermaeBathSpa.com

SPRING 2016 HALF TERM TRAINS

THREE COURSE

6 MARCH (MOTHER’S DAY)

A delicious three course meal with coffee and mints

3 & 24 APRIL

2030

emorate 50 Join us to comm y of the last years to the da to run on the passenger trains Avon Valley line

TWO COURSE A delicious two course meal with coffee and mints

AFTERNOON HIGH TEA 27 MARCH (EASTER SUNDAY)

FAMILY FUN WITH

12 & 13 MARCH See a variety of diesel locomotives hauling passenger and freight trains

MAY

DIESEL GALA

2031

Whether you’d like to explore our beautiful architecture, tour our Tower and experience the amazing views of Bath, or just want to escape the buzz and have time to reflect, there’s always a warm welcome for you at Bath Abbey.

march

The Heart and Soul of Bath

march

TO BITTON LAST TRAIN

6 MARCH

Pre-booking is essential for all our dining trains.

THE PINES EXPRESS

14 & 15 MAY

1132

6 – 21 FEBRUARY

Brighten up your half term holiday with a trip on our heritage diesel train. Daily except Mon & Fri

1973

February

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

™ Come and see Paddington at intervals throughout the weekend

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

We’re open daily - visit our website for times. www.bathabbey.org

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

TOURISM EVENT OF THE YEAR Supported by

the

South West’s e ultimat foodie event!

22 - 24 April 2016

South West Food & Drink Producrs

Darts Farm Food is Fun Teepees

Exeter Castle & Northernhay Gardens, Exeter www.exeterfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk

10am – 7.30pm (5pm on Sunday)

The Festival Cooker y Theatre

After Dark Music Festival

OUS FABUL SIC U LIVE M S EVENT

Thurs 21, Fri 22 & Sat 23 April

Little Cookies Children ’s Area Festival Bars

!

now on sale

s t e k c ti e Buy onlin dfest xeterfoo ry.com/e to c ix a n tf e e o k h tic Exeter P www.the on at the rs e p in Buy

R.L. Stine’s

Visit England Gold for the best self catering in England FROM 6 APRIL 2016

Unique luxury Cornish holiday cottages near the Eden Project

www.bosinver.co.uk

Kids’

page

Get in Touch Send us

PUZZLING POSTCARDS: 1) BUCKINGHAM PALACE 2) TOWER BRIDGE 3) PICCADILLY CIRCUS 4) HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT; WHICH ONE...: ALPINE IBEX, ALBATROSS, KANGAROO

© P&CO. Ltd./SC 2014. Licensed on behalf of Studiocanal S.A. by Copyrights Group

Here are some fun activities for you to do while you make your way from A to B

spot the difference

There are six differences between these two pictures of Paddington baking cupcakes. Can you spot them all?

all your fun facts, draw ings and photos.

Our favourite s will be featur ed in future issu es!

fun facts

Just like humans, British cows have regional accents

rrr

A pencil can draw a continuous line 35 miles long

Send your emails to

escape@thinkpublishing.co.uk We’d love to hear from you!

for the fun of it

Q WHY DID THE GHOST TAKE THE ELEVATOR? A TO LIFT HIS SPIRITS

µµµ

Q DID YOU HEAR

ABOUT THE MAGIC TRACTOR? A IT TURNED INTO A FIELD

Puzzling postcards Paddington has been on a tour around London but got the names of the places he visited all mixed up.

Can you unscramble them?

1) GLUM BACKACHE PAIN

2) WIDGET BORER

3) CURLY ACIDIC CLIPS

4) ME TEASPOONFU L HAIRS

Which one …?

Take a look at these three pairs and then try to answer the question www.gwr.com

is the best rock climber

is the better glider

is the highest jumper

Alpine ibex OR lion

albatross OR flying fish

kangaroo OR tree frog escape | 41

Uncover cornwall’s Hidden History Be an explorer for the day and discover Porthcurno’s role in shaping global communication. Step into the sights & sounds of this once working cable station...

global ed shape lp e h o rn Porthcu e know it ation as w ic n u m m co

Send & decode Morse code messages. Head on a familyfriendly trail. Get creative with make & take activities. Go underground in World War Two tunnels. Gets hands on with Science.

Enjoy seasonal events & activities throughout the year. For more information visit www.telegraphmuseum.org Telegraph Museum Porthcurno, Penzance, TR19 6JX T: 01736 810966 | E: info@telegraphmuseum.org www.telegraphmuseum.org @ThePTM

TelegraphMuseumPorthcurno

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

40

OF STEAMING TO THE SEASIDE

WEST SOMERSET RAILWAY

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

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

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.

Heading for Heathrow?

Banbury

As co Ch tt-u ar nde lb ur r-W y yc hw oo d

Pe rs Ev hore es h Ho am ne yb ou rn e

Kings Sutton

Severn Beach Barnstaple

Umberleigh

Bu rn ha m

www.gwr.com

Sandplace

Falmouth Docks

Looe

G re en fo rd

So ut h

Br oa dw ay Lin e

Ea lin g

Ac to n

So ut ha ll Ha nw ell

M ain

Ca st le

Dr ay to n

Ha rlin gt on &

ye s

La ng ley Ive r W es tD ra Ha yton

G re en

Ba rP ar k

En d

Co ok ha m Pla tt Fu rz e

M aid

e Ta plo nh ea Bu w d rn ha m

Di d

W es tE ali ng

Pa dd Lon in do gt n on

Sp a

Pa rk

Plymouth

Be tc hw or th Re iga te

Sh a Ch lford ilw or th G om D Do ork sha ing ll rk ing W es (D t ee pd en e)

Gatwick Airport

Polsloe Bridge

Br ig ht on

Sh or eh am -b ySe a Ho ve

W or th ing

Chetnole

Digby & Sowton Topsham

Portsmouth & Southsea

Maiden Newton Lympstone Commando Lympstone Village

Paignton

Fratton

Yetminster

Exton Torquay

Ch ich es te r

Thornford

Ba rn ha m

Southampton Central

’P ar k

Newton Abbot

Salisbury Romsey

Ha va nt

Ye ov il P en

Starcross Dawlish Warren Dawlish Teignmouth

Totnes Ivybridge

S Fe t Bu rry de Ro au a x Ke d y Do ham c De kya vo rd np or t

P

L ar Bo ost dm wit hie in l Pa rk w ay

Falmouth Town

Tiverton Parkway

Ce Exe St nt ter Ja ra m l es

Lis ke

Tr ur o St Au st ell

Penryn Penmere

Coombe Junction Halt St Keyne Wishing Well Halt Causeland

Guildford

Warminster

Exeter St Thomas S Be Vic t B re to ude Fe ria a rre Ro ux rs ad

ar M d en h St enio t G er Sa ma n lta sh s

Ha yle Ca m Re bor dr ne ut h

Perranwell

Castle Cary

Taunton

Exeter St Davids

Torre

Penzance

Redhill

Wanborough

Dilton Marsh

Crediton Newton St Cyres

Calstock

Luxulyan

North Camp Ash

Bruton

Fa re ha m Co sh am

Okehampton

Lelant Saltings

St Erth

Sampford Courtenay

Gunnislake

Bere Alston

Basingstoke

& Hig Br id hb gw rid at ge er

Yeoford

Lelant

Ba th

Westbury

Copplestone

Bugle

Blackwater Farnborough North

Frome

Morchard Road

Carbis Bay

Bramley

Pewsey

Trowbridge

Lapford

Roche

Kintbury

Weston-super-Mare

Eggesford

St Columb Road

Sandhurst

Hungerford Bedwyn

Weston Milton

Kings Nympton

St Ives

Heathrow Terminal 4

Crowthorne

Worle

Portsmouth Arms

Newquay

Mortimer

Newbury

Bradfordon-Avon

Yatton

Chapelton

Quintrell Downs

Newbury Racecourse Melksham

M ill

Pembroke

Heathrow Terminals 1-2-3

Windsor & Eton Central

Wokingham

Midgham

Avoncliff

Nailsea & Backwell

Pembroke Dock

Slough Winnersh

Thatcham

Parson Street

Lamphey

Theale Aldermaston

Freshford

Bedminster

Manorbier

Chippenham

Keynsham

Bristol Temple Meads

St Andrews Road

Penally

Ch co o t G lse P or y ar ing kw Pa & ay ng Str Til bou eatle eh r ur ne y st

Pa tc hw ay

Lawrence Hill

Avonmouth

Tenby

Sw in do n

Ju nc tio n Tu nn el

Stapleton Road

Sea Mills Shirehampton

Saundersfoot

Filton Abbey Wood O ld fie ld

Kilgetty

Pil nin g

Se ve rn

Montpelier

Swansea

Appleford Kemble

Stroud

Reading West

C Do lifto w n n Re dla nd

Lla ne lli

Newport

Br id ge nd

Great Western Railway summer only service

Narberth

P Pa ort rk Ta w lb ay ot

Ca r

Fe ma rry r sid the Kid e n w e Pe lly m br ey & Bu rry Po rt

Neath

Bristol Parkway

W Sh ar ip gr lak av e e

Stonehouse

Yate

Re ad in g

Culham

Cam & Dursley

Whitland

Bo ur ne

Radley

Gloucester

Cardiff Central

He nle yon -T M h ar low am es

Oxford

Cheltenham Spa

Tw yfo rd

Ashchurch for Tewkesbury

G re en fo rd

Tackley

Fin st oc C k Ha om nb be or ou gh

W or G ce re at st M er alv er Fo M n W a or reg lvern at ce e Link st S er t Sh ree t ru b Hi ll

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

OT MY FAVOURITE SP

TRANSPORT LINKS FROM STATIONS

Exe Estuary is a highlight

Wildlife way

Daphne Pleace on why the Riviera line has a lot to offer

I recently travelled the wonderful Riviera line, which runs from Exeter to Torbay – surely the most wildlife-rich train journey in the country.

Here, the track runs parallel to the sea – in some places only a sea wall separates train and beach – and there are glorious views of coastline and estuary.

I particularly enjoy going along the Exe Estuary, with its two contrasting landscapes. On one side of the track is the Daphne enjoyed the beauty of train trip

river itself, and all the birds that make it their home: gulls, swans, cormorants, curlews, oystercatchers and egrets can be seen all year round. But in winter, the Exe is really special because hundreds of avocets shelter here: there can be as many as 20,000 overwintering birds of different kinds. They feed on the mud-flats, and when the tide’s coming in, the flocks can be close to the train.

On the other side is the RSPB reserve of Powderham Marshes, where the Powderham

Estate has its own herd of fallow deer. Once, I saw them close to the track. I expected them to run off but they just stared and slowly walked away.

On this trip I saw a group of rooks harassing a buzzard gliding across the skyline.

The first few times I took this journey, I felt that my head was going to fall off because I turned it round so much so I didn't miss anything. Now I watch the scenery and wildlife from the window I’m closest to, which still leaves me plenty to see. daphnegoeswildindevon blogspot.co.uk

WHEN YOU’RE ON BOARD LUGGAGE can be stored on the overhead shelves, in the racks at the end of carriages, or under the seats.

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

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.

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

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

DISCOVER A SMALL CORNER OF PARADISE AT THE END OF THE LINE...

Visit Swansea’s Gower Peninsula, Britain’s first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With over 200 holiday cottages and apartments in our portfolio, we can help you discover the magic of Swansea Bay, Mumbles and Gower for yourself.

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OVER

THE GUIDE

2FOR1 DAYS OUT 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 the Tower of London?

SEA LIFE London Aquarium? Or Thorpe Park?

HOW TO GET YOUR OFFER To take advantage of these offers all you need to do is

1 Visit daysoutguide.co.uk

2 Browse the list of offers

3 Click ‘Claim offer’ on the one you like

4 Print your 2FOR1 voucher

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

The Tower of London

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 from £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.

SuperBus The First SuperBus ticket provides inclusive onward bus travel in the Bristol area for holders of certain train tickets with a destination of Bristol Parkway or Bristol Temple Meads, at no extra cost.

HOW ARE WE DOING? Contact us at gwr.feedback@gwr.com or call us on 03457 000 125 (0700 to 2200 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 08457 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 Passenger Focus The independent National Rail consumer watchdog can be contacted at passengerfocus.org.uk www.gwr.com

BATH HOLIDAY RENTALS VB ★★★★/★★★★★ GOLD STARS Bath Holiday Rentals is a personable Bath-based company specialising in luxury 4 and 5 star self catering properties in and around Bath. Whether you are coming to Bath on business, re-locating or planning a holiday, we endeavor to meet your individual needs and can tailor a package to suit you.

Many of the properties are in exclusive locations around Bath, including The Royal Crescent, The Circus, Gt Pulteney Street and many other renowned addresses. Our extensive portfolio has period apartments, stylish and contemporary flats and homes with indoor heated pool, gym, steam room, cinema, bar and games room, whole Georgian town houses and country homes with sauna and games room

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Please see the website www.bathholidayrentals.com for property details and visuals. We can comfortably accommodate 1 person or a party of 18. Properties are serviced weekly, all are well equipped with self-catering facilities and come with wifi, linens, toiletries, parking and a welcome hamper.

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ADVERT COPY 47 half page AD.indd 1

15/01/2016 12:19

BOOK PUBLISHING

SEE BRITAIN BY BOAT & TRAIN

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

Quarter_Page.indd 1

18/03/2013 17:18

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

01753 827345

We’re giving the west back its Great Western Railway.

Sunday 20 September 2015 marked the

in any industry. We’ve removed

beginning of a new era. From that day

ourselves from the livery. With this

on our region’s railway became known

comes the commitment to not act

as GWR, Great Western Railway.

as a franchise. But rather, as a proud

This is not a mere ‘rebadging’ exercise.

It is a statement of intent.

to reinvigorate the west by returning the rail service to its former glory.

It’s a reinstatement of the original name given to us by our illustrious founder, Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

of London Paddington, resplendent in GWR green. Over the coming months,

It’s a promise to use every last ounce

it will be followed by the biggest

of our passion to build a 21st century railway that Brunel himself would be

Bringing a new age of faster GWR

proud of.

electric trains, equipped with foremost

And it’s an acknowledgement that

technology and passenger comforts.

the railway and its people are far

All staffed by dedicated

more important than any franchise or

Western Railway people, to connect

holding company.

Great Western Railway stations,

At FirstGroup, we recognise that this railway truly belongs to the

06244

custodian, whose responsibility it is

Great

and bring prosperity to our great western region.

region it serves. So we’ve taken an

Learn how we’re Building a Greater West

unprecedented step for any brand

at GWR.com

FILE NAME: PR06244 _GWR _ 210X148_WEST_ A5 PROOF STAGE: 1ST – 10 D E C E MB ER 15 • FILED IN: SEPT 15 SIZE: 340 X 270 MM (– MM B LD) • PUBLICATION: NEWS GENERI

M ASTER – NEWSPRINT GENERI

C •

PG: 1

C

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 broadcaster, author and Oscar Wilde fan tells us about his new Word Power tour

GYLES BRANDRETH

1

Can you tell us about your show Word Power?

As the great philosopher Bertrand Russell used to say, ‘No matter how eloquently a dog may bark, he cannot tell you that his parents were poor but honest.’ Words are what make us human and they define us. The show is a celebration of the English language, lauding everyone from Shakespeare to George W Bush, who infamously said, ‘The trouble with the French is they don’t have a word for entrepreneur.’ The mind will also boggle with this show!

d

: AND ALSO

50 | escape

K K

2 4 Have you always had such a passion for the English language?

English is the richest language on earth and I’m on a mission to encourage people to have fun with it. I’ve been a word enthusiast all my life. As a little boy, I was taught to play Scrabble by a gentleman who was 99 years old.

His name was John Badley and he was the founder of Bedales School where I was a pupil. He had been a friend of Oscar Wilde and introduced me to his work – I’m very proud to have met him.

3

What is it that you admire about Oscar Wilde’s work?

He called himself a lord of language and he truly was. His advice to my Scrabble teacher was ‘Never commit murder.

A gentleman should never do anything that he cannot talk about at dinner.’ My Oscar Wilde Murder Mysteries are based on the real life friendship of Wilde and Arthur Conan Doyle. I do a lot of the story plotting on train journeys – they’re great for inspiration.

What do you enjoy most about working on The One Show?

I love it because I constantly learn unexpected things.

Recently, I went to Newby Hall in Yorkshire, which would have been the safe house of the Royal Family if the Germans had successfully invaded Britain in WWII. I loved the house so much that I decided to make it the new home for my teddy bear collection – which includes the original Fozzy Bear given to me by Jim Henson.

Former MP Gyles is never at a loss for words

5

Could you describe your ideal day out on GWR? I love trains, I’d be very happy to spend the entire day on them going as far as they go. I published a book of my diaries called Something Sensational to Read in the Train. If I had to get off, I’d visit Magdalen College in Oxford, where Oscar Wilde was a student, to get inspiration for my next book. The English love a murder mystery. As Oscar Wilde himself said, ‘There’s nothing quite like an unexpected death for lifting the spirits.’

Gyles will bring Word Power to venues across the Great Western Railway network, including Swansea 11 June, Bristol 12 June and Swindon 9 July During his time as an MP and Government Whip, Gyles introduced the 1994 Marriage Act, which allowed civil weddings to take place in venues other than registry offices Gyles is in the Guinness Book of World Records for delivering the longest-ever after dinner speech – clocking in at twelve and half hours!

K

www.gwr.com

Plymouth’s fish love Easter so much they are holding an ‘Easter Eggstravaganza’ at the National Marine Aquarium.

So if your family need another ‘eggscuse’ to visit the UK’s largest aquarium this Easter you’ve found it!

Get involved this Easter 26th March – 10th April for an

www.national-aquarium.co.uk | 0844 8937938 |

/NationalMarineAquarium |

@NMAplymouth

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