Gardiners NMC UK & Continental Coach Holidays 2018 by Chris Pangburn

“Experience the difference”

Formerly

UK & C o n t i n e n t a l Coach H o l i d a y s 2 0 1 8 n n

Free Home Collection

3 Star Plus Quality Hotels n

Friendly Tour Managers n

Modern Luxury Coaches

Excursions and Entrances Included

Welcome

“Experience the difference”

Welcome to our ﬁrst full year brochure of Gardiners NMC departing from the Surrey and south London area.

Form erly

Now you can plan your breaks and holidays for the whole of 2018, including the Festive period! It’s just one of the innovations we have introduced since we acquired the holidays business of Epsom Coaches in June 2017. We have also released a selection of family friendly and short breaks which oﬀer great value for money.

Gardiners nMC 7 The Broadway, Stoneleigh, Epsom, Surrey, KT17 2JA Tel: 01372 610000 Email: sales@gardinersnmc.co.uk

In this brochure you will find a huge variety of excellent breaks and holidays, covering the UK and Europe. You will still be picked up from home and be greeted by our friendly tour managers. We will travel in a luxury coaches and stay in superb hotels. The very best way to take a holiday! I am also pleased to announce that we have now joined the Consortium of Independent Tour Operators (CITO), a select band of UK coach firms. Through CITO we are able to offer a selection of worldwide holidays by air, cruising and river cruising. Please see our separate brochure for further details.

COACH TOURISM

ASSOCIATION

If you haven’t visited our shop in Stoneleigh Broadway, please pop in to make your bookings. If you previously travelled with Epsom Coaches, you might see some familiar faces! We are looking forward to a busy season and hope to welcome you on board. Yours sincerely adrian smith FCiLT Managing Director

Door to Door We oﬀer a door to door service on every holiday in this brochure. We pick you by taxi, MPV (‘people carrier’) or minibus from your door. You will then be taken to our coach departure point, which will have plenty seating, prior to boarding the coach. You can enjoy a cup of tea or coﬀee on arrival, with a chance to chat to your tour manager and other customers before boarding the coach. On your return, you will seamlessly be returned home along with your luggage.

A307

A205 A306

A30

Egham

Richmond

A316

Staines

Sunbury

A308

A3 A308

M3 M3

Chertsey M3

M25

Putney

Kingston Upon Thames

A23

Wimbledon

Streatham

Walton-on-Thames Weybridge

Esher

A232

A240

Sutton A243

Epsom

Cobham Woking

Our door to door service is free within the areas on this map. If you live outside the area, please do contact us, we may still be able to pick you up for a supplement.

Banstead

M25 A23

Leatherhead A3

M25

Caterham A217 M25

M25

Oxted

Merrow

Door to door really does take the worry out of your holiday departure. No taxis for you to book for your outward and return journey, no ‘feeder services’, no waiting on draughty street corners, which is no fun in the winter months! Just total peace of mind that your transport is our responsibility. Remember that your holiday starts and ﬁnishes from the comfort of your own home.

Croydon

Dorking

Reigate Redhill

Capel A24

Horley M25

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

Discover the Best of Britain with Gardiners We explore the whole of Great Britain, from Cornwall to Scotland. On our holidays, you see the best of Britain from the comfort of a Gardiners Coach. Our Tour Managers are on hand to show you all our wonderful islands have to offer. We discover stunning scenery, pleasant towns and villages, exciting cities and our fascinating history. England is wonderfully diverse with so much to see and do. From the sunny south Coast to picturesque villages in east anglia and mountains and meres in the Lake district; there is a wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered. Cornwall is a particular favourite, with a rugged coastline dotted with pretty white-washed fishing villages. England has a fascinating history and we discover castles and kings, churches and cathedrals and mansions and monuments; not to mention a rich industrial heritage. You are always assured of a warm welcome in Wales, land of song, castles and legends. In scotland, explore the stunning scenery of the Highlands and Islands, with picturesque vistas and a wealth of flora and fauna. Discover heather-covered peaks, deep and dark lochs, mountain streams and atmospheric valleys.

Explore Europe with Gardiners We oﬀer a selection of ﬁne European holidays. Each holiday has been carefully researched and we are sure that you will enjoy savouring the sights, culture and tastes of each country you visit. We travel to the majestic italian Lakes. We explore the beautiful French scenery of Brittany and normandy. Our austria tour is great value, with lots of admissions, guided tours and lunches included. We feature a concert by the renowned andre rieu in Cologne and a visit the spectacular rhine in Flames.

Festive Holidays Enjoy an entertaining selection of Festive holidays, including three at Christmas and one for new Year. Get the Festive season oﬀ to a fantastic start with a visit to Valkenburg Christmas Market. There’s the always popular Thursford Christmas spectacular. New tours include a visit to the irish Country Music Weekend and a pre-Christmas tour to the Yorkshire Coast. Don’t forget our reunion Break in February – four days of fun and a few surprises!

Shared Holidays with Gardiners (North East) We are pleased to oﬀer a selection of European holidays with Gardiners (North East) – full details on pages 51-58. These great value breaks include two drivers and crossings by ferry. You will still be picked up by taxi and will be transferred to the coach at Thurrock Services. Please note there will not be a Tour Manager on these holidays.

Group Holidays

FinanCiaL PeaCe oF Mind

Thinking of booking a break for your group? We have experience of looking after all kinds of groups. We can tailor-make arrangements to ﬁt around your speciﬁc requirements. If you would like a competitive quotation, please call 01372 610000.

Key to hotel symbols 3★ Hotel Star Rating AA

AA, Scottish Tourist Board (STB) Irish Tourist Board (ITB) and European Tourist Boards

Lift

Rosette Award for Food

Mini Bar

Air Conditioned Rooms

Indoor Pool

Wi-ﬁ

Outdoor Pool

Leisure Facilities

Gardiners NMC are members of the Bonded Coach Holiday Group of the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK Ltd. This is a government approved consumer protection scheme. This ensures that in relation to the coach package holidays described in this brochure (or website) that the clients’ monies are protected by a Bond which may be called upon in the unlikely event of the member’s insolvency. Clients are recommended to inspect the current membership certificate at our registered office or alternatively go to www.bchuk.org or telephone 0207 240 3131 to confirm current membership. Your attention is also drawn to the Bonded Coach Holiday Group Trading Charter that will apply to these coach package holidays.

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

‘Experience the Gardiners Diﬀerence’ Luxury coach travel Explore the UK and Europe from the comfort and security of a Gardiners NMC coach. Your reserved reclining seat has plenty of legroom and an adjustable footrest. The wide panoramic windows are double glazed with just enough tint to reduce glare, but still allow you to enjoy the panoramic view. The WC/Washroom on board gives peace of mind, whilst travelling in the perfect environment with the climate control system.

Excellent hotels We have a ﬁne selection of hotels, all of which are of the highest quality, many rated 4 star by the AA. Whatever holiday you choose, you will be treated to excellent service, staying in world renowned hotels from amongst others the Marriott, Best Western and Brend Hotel groups, who like us share a passion for the very best. Many of the hotels have been repeated from previous successful stays and always with the reassurance that our Tour Manager will be with you to look after your every need.

Friendly Tour Managers Whilst you are on your holiday, one of our experienced Tour Managers will be with you every step of the way. From the moment you are warmly greeted to providing information and assistance on the journey and looking after you at your hotel, you can be sure that our carefully selected guides will oﬀer a personal touch. Please note there will not be a Tour Manager on our Warners Breaks

Included excursions Unlike many companies, we not only provide comfortable transport and superb quality accommodation but also a fantastic itinerary oﬀering a diverse range of excursions, and they’re all included in the price unless stated otherwise.

Self-Drive – Save £100 per couple Do you want to go on one of our breaks, but drive yourself to the hotel (or take the train), then why not take our self-drive option? We will discount your break by £50 per person. You can still travel on the excursions if you want, but have the ﬂexibility to do as you please. This is for the UK only and not applicable to Mystery Breaks.

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

FUnTasTiC WeeKend! £265

UK & ireLand

Reunion Break

eXCUrsions inCLUded

s aY d 4

Bury st edmunds and Lavenham We visit Bury st edmunds. A traditional market town with a fascinating heritage, there is a pleasing combination of medieval architecture, elegant Georgian squares and the glorious Cathedral and Abbey Gardens. Why not pop into The Nutshell, Britain’s smallest pub! Later we take a leisurely morning drive to the picture-postcard town of Lavenham.

scenic suffolk Coast We enjoy a tour along the Suffolk Coast, visiting southwold, which has a pleasant pier and colourful beach huts, some of which sell for over £100,000 each! We return to the hotel for a cream tea. Constable Country On our return journey, we tour Constable Country, breaking for lunch in dedham. See picturesque villages, rolling farmland, rivers, meadows, ancient woodlands and a wide variety of local wildlife. entertainment We enjoy a sherry reception on the first night, with a table magician to entertain us during dinner. Enjoy our ‘House Party’ on the second night with entertainment, music and dancing. On the last night enjoy bingo and a fun quiz.

BesT WesTern iPsWiCh hoTeL, nr iPsWiCh 4★

Modern hotel located in the village of Copdock, which is about a 15 minute drive from the centre of Ipswich. www.cameronventuresgroup.co.uk/ ipswich-home What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Cream tea • Entertainment

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

02 Feb

£265

£60

£28

GreaT VaLUe £255

UK & ireLand

Mystery Breaks

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Ys 4 da

Mystery days out We will take you on two full day excursions. Depending on the location of your mystery hotel, it could be a visit to a market town or cathedral city, a scenic drive in the country or to the seaside.

YoUr hoTeL We can tell you that you will be taken to a 3 star (or better) hotel, somewhere in Britain. We often stay at premium hotels operated by groups such as Mercure, Best Western, Q, Holiday Inn or Marriott. What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout

4 daYs deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Fri 23 Mar

£255

£45

£28

Fri 20 Apr

£255

£45

£28

Fri 11 May

£255

£45

£28

Fri 15 Jun

£255

£45

£28

Fri 27 Jul

£255

£45

£28

Fri 26 Oct

£255

£45

£28

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

LoVeLY WeeKend £265

UK & ireLand

Snowdrops at Hodsock Priory

eXCUrsions inCLUded

s aY d 3

hodsock Priory The snowdrops at hodsock are world-renowned and attract over 20,000 visitors every year. There are ﬁve acres of formal gardens and 12 acres of snowdrop covered woodland to discover. Explore the formal gardens and take in the secluded splendour of the 19th century country house estate. Look out for two very distinctive Snowdrop species; 'Barbara's Double' and the 'Lady Beatrix Stanley', both named after late members of the Buchanan family (Lady Barbara Buchanan and her mother) who were great gardeners in their day. After our visit we enjoy a two course lunch at the Best Western Lion Hotel in Worksop..

BesT WesTern PLUs WesT reTFord hoTeL, reTFord 3★ AA

18th-century manor house situated in the historic market town of Retford, set in over 4 acres of professionally landscaped gardens. The hotel is a pleasing blend of traditional and modern. No lift but ground ﬂoor rooms available on request. www.westretfordhotel.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 2 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Hodsock Priory and tour • Lunch at the Best Western Lion Hotel

neW ToUr £479

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Thu 22 Feb

£265

£40

£28

UK & ireLand

Planes, Trains, Boats and 'Being Brunel'!

eXCUrsions inCLUded

s aY d 4

deParTUres

Brunel’s ss Great Britain and Being Brunel Museum experience Today, we head towards the Dockyard, where we can discover the ship that changed the world: Brunel’s ss Great Britain, the world’s ﬁrst great ocean liner. We head beneath the glass sea, walk through the history of the SS Great Britain in the Dockyard Museum and step onto the ship itself. We also have time to see the exciting new national museum and visitor experience, Being Brunel. Visitors will be invited to step into the mind of Isambard Kingdom Brunel as he is brought vividly to life with never-before-seen personal possessions, documents and artefacts.

aerospace Bristol and avon Valley railway with afternoon Tea We visit a new attraction for 2018 - aerospace Bristol. The collection will offer a unique glimpse inside the aerospace industry from the point of view of the people who designed and built our nation’s aircraft over the past 100 years. Aerospace Bristol will tell a fascinating story of more than a century of flight and give visitors the chance to step aboard its star attraction, the iconic Concorde 216, the last of the supersonic passenger jets to be built and the last to fly. We then make our way to the beautifully restored Victorian station at Bitton. Here we join the avon Valley railway which has brought the sounds and smells of steam back to the Avon Valley. We can sit back, relax and enjoy a 6 mile round trip out into the glorious countryside of the Avon Valley as our waiter serves us deParTUres PriCe a cream tea. £479 Fri 1 Jun

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

MerCUre hoLLand hoUse hoTeL, BrisToL 4★

Modern hotel with leisure facilities located near St Mary Redcliﬀe Church and about a 20 minute walk to the city centre. www.mercure.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to SS Great Britain • Admission to Being Brunel • Admission to Aerospace Bristol • Avon Valley Railway ride with cream tea sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£87

£28

TrULY UnForGeTTaBLe £425

UK & ireLand

Kynren

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Kynren Starting at sunset and ending in starlight, the 90minute show is set against the magnificent backdrop of Auckland Castle. Taking place 8,000-seat open-air theatre in front of a vast stage. The lake at its centre is still. You are enveloped by music that makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end. You are watching King Harold rejoicing, having conquered the Vikings. But his celebrations are short-lived! The tranquil waters of the lake begin to ripple, its surface begins to swirl and seethe. A Norman longship erupts from its depths, bearing a fierce William of Normandy and his cohort of men who leap ashore, swords held aloft. This is just one of Kynren’s 29 scenes which takes you on an action-packed and emotional journey through time. Encompassing the Roman occupation, the Viking and Norman invasions, medieval feasts and jousting, the Tudors, the Civil War, the Georgian Renaissance, Industrial Revolution and two world wars. Kynren takes you on a spellbinding voyage through history, myth and legend, as seen through the eyes of Arthur, the son of mining family from the north east. Kynren is directed by Olympic ceremonies veteran, Steve Boyd and brought to you by a 1,500-strong cast and crew of volunteers who have been professionally trained by top performance experts in dance, theatrical combat, pyrotechnics, equestrianism and guest management. The huge cast is joined on stage by a ménagerie of horses, sheep, goats, oxen, geese and donkeys, collectively bringing each scene to life amidst jaw-dropping special effects and an original sound track by the award-winning composer Nathan Stornetta. Please note this is an outdoor event.

and The Great Exhibition of the North

aYs

©Eleven Arches

Great exhibition of the north Our hotel is located on the quayside in Newcastle, so there is plenty of time to explore the city, where the Great exhibition of the north will be taking place. The Sage and Baltic will be major venues.

sPeCTaCULar eVenT £449

Edinburgh Military Tattoo

CoPThorne hoTeL, neWCasTLe 4★

Superb modern hotel with impressive public areas, in a great location on the cosmopolitan Quayside with views of Newcastle’s famous bridges. Within walking distance of the castle. www.millenniumhotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Gold ticket for Kynren

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Fri 10 Aug

£425

£87

£28

UK & ireLand

eXCUrsions inCLUded

s aY d 4

edinburgh Military Tattoo We travel to central edinburgh and enjoy plenty of free time to explore the city and have a pre-show dinner (not included). Later we take our seats for The edinburgh Military Tattoo, an unforgettable event set against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. This unique display of massed military bands, pipes and drums and colourful Scottish dancers is renowned the world over and attracts audiences of thousands every year. We enjoy magniﬁcent views of this enthralling event from midpriced reserved seats. We have included lunch prior to our departure from the hotel.

Culzean Castle After a leisurely start, we travel to impressive Culzean Castle. Standing on a dramatic cliff top overlooking the Firth of Clyde, the castle has been associated with the Kennedy family since the 14th century and was converted by Robert Adam between 1777 and 1792. Highlights include Adam's masterpiece, the oval staircase, as well as a fine collection of paintings and furniture. Culzean also has a strong link with deParTUres PriCe President Eisenhower, as the top-floor apartment was presented to him for his lifetime in recognition of his role during World War II. £449 Sun 19 Aug

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

haLLMarK hoTeL, irVine 4★

Modern low-rise hotel located on the outskirts of Irvine. No lift (ground ﬂoor rooms available on request). www.hallmarkhotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 3 nights bed and breakfast • Dinner on 2 nights • Lunch on 1 day • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Tattoo Ticket • Admission to Culzean Castle sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£60

£28

reLaX aFTer ChrisTMas £349

Devon Cosy Break Ys a d 5

UK & ireLand

eXCUrsions inCLUded salcombe Morning drive to the attractive resort of salcombe. The town is close to the mouth of the Kingsbridge Estuary and lies within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Plymouth We travel to the historic port of Plymouth, forever associated with Sir Francis Drake and the Spanish Armada. Today, Plymouth is a vibrant waterfront city packed full of attractions, activities, shopping, entertainment and sightseeing. Torquay Morning visit to the nearby ‘Riviera’ resort of Torquay, which has a wealth of attractions such as Torre Abbey which dates from the 12th century. Why not walk the ‘Agatha Christie Mile’ along the pleasant seafront? entertainment Enjoy entertainment every night.

3★

A warm welcome awaits at this comfortable traditional hotel, located some 200 yards from the town centre. With highly regarded food, an indoor pool and entertainment, this is a great hotel to relax and unwind after the Christmas period. Entertainment every night. www.queenspaignton.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Entertainment every night

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Mon 15 Jan

£349

£0

£38

Free Bar £375

UK & ireLand

Bournemouth

eXCUrsions inCLUded

‘All Inclusive’ Ys 5 da

QUeens hoTeL, PaiGnTon

explore the new Forest Originally a hunting forest for William the Conqueror, this delightful area is home to unusual ﬂora and fauna including ponies that roam free. We visit the attractive town of Lyndhurst. We return to the hotel for a hot one-course lunch. Purbeck Panorama We travel through the attractive countryside of the Isle of Purbeck, breaking for coﬀee in the historic riverside town of Wareham. We continue to the delightful old-fashioned resort of swanage for a lunch break. We have included a packed lunch today. day at leisure Bournemouth is one of the most popular seaside resorts in the country with six miles of sandy beaches, two piers and endless ideas for entertainment. There is a hot onecourse lunch today.

BesT WesTern hoTeL roYaLe, BoUrneMoUTh 3★

Located on the East Cliﬀ, just a short walk from the seafront and local shops and amenities, is this privately-owned hotel and is highly rated. Public areas are contemporary in style, and facilities include a small health club. Bar drinks included every night (6-9pm – house wine, beer, spirits, soft drinks). www.thehotelroyale.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Lunch on 3 days • Bar drinks included every night (6-9pm – house wine, beer, spirits, soft drinks) • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Entertainment on 2 nights

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Mon 12 Feb

£375

£0

£38

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

GreaT For sinGLes £389

UK & ireLand

Eastbourne

eXCUrsions inCLUded Battle and hastings We travel to Battle, a charming market town which grew up around Battle abbey, scene of the Battle of Hastings which took place on 14th October 1066. We continue to the resort of Hastings.

in the Spring s 5 daY

Bexhill-on-sea Morning visit to the birthplace of British motor racing, home of the de La Warr Pavilion. Inspired by the 9th Earl De La Warr, the Pavilion was built in 1935 as a pioneering centre for cultural excellence for local people and visitors alike. In 2005, an £8m redevelopment programme continued that vision, creating an international centre for contemporary art. day at leisure One of the foremost resorts on the south coast, eastbourne has a wonderful promenade where the ‘carpet gardens’ are a blaze of colour in the summer. A Victorian Pier, Napoleonic fortress, leisure pool, Sovereign Harbour, Dotto Train, boat trips and a 1930's Bandstand are just a few of the attractions along Eastbourne seafront. Enjoy excellent shopping in the High Street and Arndale Centre.

BesT WesTern YorK hoUse hoTeL 3★

This elegant Victorian hotel boasts a stunning seafront position just 400 yards from Eastbourne pier and a 10 minute walk from Eastbourne town centre. Twin rooms available on request. www.bw-yorkhouse.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Bingo and quiz night

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Mon 26 Feb

£389

£0

£38

Free Bar £425

UK & ireLand

Southport

eXCUrsions inCLUded

‘All Inclusive’ Ys 5 da

Morecambe and stately Leighton We travel north to the seaside resort of Morecambe, where you can see a statue of ‘Eric’, unveiled by The Queen in 1999. In the afternoon, we travel to Leighton hall, home of the furniture-making Gillow Family, a romantic Gothic stately home in a wonderful setting, with views to the Cumbrian Fells. We have included a packed lunch today. Maritime Liverpool We travel to Liverpool and the celebrated albert dock. There is so much to see and do at this superbly redeveloped area. The Tate Liverpool is the most visited museum of contemporary art outside London. The Beatles Story tells the journey of the Fab Four. The Maritime Museum tells the story of Liverpool’s rich maritime past. We have included a packed lunch today. day at leisure southport is a classic seaside resort with scenic parks and gardens and fabulous shopping. See the UK’s oldest iron pier. There is a hot one-course lunch today. Bingo.

BesT WesTern roYaL CLiFTon hoTeL, soUThPorT 3★

This grand, traditional hotel beneﬁts from a prime location on the promenade. Over recent years it has been thoughtfully refurbished and now oﬀers comfortable accommodation and excellent facilities, including a health club and spa. Bar drinks included every night (6-9pm – house wine, beer, spirits, soft drinks). www.royalclifton.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Lunch on 3 days • Bar drinks included every night (6-9pm – house wine, beer, spirits, soft drinks) • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Leighton Hall • Bingo and quiz night

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Sun 4 Mar

£425

£0

£38

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

GreaT GeTaWaY FroM £389

UK & ireLand

Cornwall Break

eXCUrsions inCLUded historic Falmouth We travel to Falmouth. Once a ﬁshing port, Falmouth is now an attractive resort and among the attractions is the excellent National Maritime Museum.

Ys 5 da

Beautiful st ives We visit the charming seaside resort of st ives with its cobbled streets, full of history, legend and tradition, winding between pretty ﬁshermans' cottages. St Ives is also known for its artistic connections, the Tate Gallery opened a branch in 1993 here and looks after the Barbara Hepworth Museum and sculpture garden.

Truro and historic Charlestown We visit the cathedral city of Truro. Later we travel to Charlestown, near St Austell. This picturesque Grade II listed harbour doubled for Truro Harbour in ‘Poldark’. Dating from the late 18th century, there are usually historic vessels in port and there is a fascinating Shipwreck Centre.

3★

Pleasant family-owned and run hotel in an elegant Queen Anne house, set in well maintained secluded gardens in unspoilt St Agnes. There are quiet lounge areas and the restaurant serves excellent food. The hotel is very highly rated. There are two ﬂoors and whilst there is no lift, there are ground ﬂoor rooms (subject to availability). www.rosemundy.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Tue 6 Mar

£389

£0

£38

Tue 23 Oct

£465

£0

£38

PoPULar hoTeL £479

UK & ireLand

Sidmouth

eXCUrsions inCLUded

in the Spring 5

Ys da

exe estuary cruise We travel to the delightful resort of Exmouth. In the afternoon, we take a cruise in the calm waters of the exe estuary with an entertaining commentary. We pass Cockwood, Starcross and Powderham Castle, returning with marvellous views of Exmouth. exeter and historic Fursdon Historic exeter has a magniﬁcent cathedral, a ruined castle and one of the narrowest streets in the world! In the afternoon, we travel to Fursdon, one of Devon’s hidden gems, for a private guided tour and a cream tea. Fursdon is an elegant house with pleasant gardens; it is also one of Devon's oldest family homes - 23 generations of the family have lived on this site!

day at leisure Described by John Betjeman as 'A town caught still in a timeless charm’, this pleasant traditional seaside resort which has been popular since Regency times. Farewell lunch We break for a farewell lunch at the Rising Sun in New Milton in the New Forest (two courses with tea/coﬀee included).

roseMUndY hoUse hoTeL, sT aGnes

roYaL YorK and FaULKner hoTeL, sidMoUTh 3★

Splendid highly-rated hotel, with Regency charm and grandeur in a wonderful position at the centre of Sidmouth’s elegant Esplanade. The Royal York and Faulkner has been family-owned and run for over 60 years and oﬀers high standards of service. The public areas are spacious and there are spa facilities to enjoy. Twin rooms available on request. www.royalyorkhotel.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • River Exe cruise • Fursdon guided tour and cream tea • Farewell lunch

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Fri 16 Mar

£479

£0

£38

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

PoPULar ToUr FroM £485

UK & ireLand

Cheshire

eXCUrsions inCLUded

and the Terracotta Warriors Ys 5 da

Tatton Park and anderton Boat Lift In the morning, we ride on the unique restored anderton Boat Lift – the ‘Cathedral of the Canals’, which provides a vertical 50 foot link between the River Weaver and Trent and Mersey Canal. Later we visit Tatton Park (National Trust, admission extra), one England’s most complete and ﬁnest estates. The Old Hall was the manor house until the late 17th century, when work commenced on a new house. The Neoclassical Mansion is celebrated for its Gillows furniture and collection of ceramics, paintings and books. The library collection is considered one of the ﬁnest in the National Trust. There are 50 acres of formal gardens and a 1000 acre deer park, with a working rare breed farm.

Medieval and roman Chester Chester is packed full of treasures such as the medieval walls and picturesque black and white timbered buildings. The cathedral dates from the 11th century and the Grosvenor Museum has relics from Roman Times, when Chester was known as Deva. You can shop in the galleried ‘Rows’, which date from medieval times. Terracotta Warriors and Liverpool We travel to Liverpool with a visit to The Terracotta Warriors at the World Museum. This will be the ﬁrst time in more than 30 years that spectacular National Cultural Treasures from the tomb of China’s First Emperor, Qin Shihuangdi, will be brought to a museum in deParTUres PriCe the UK outside London. This vast burial site and tomb complex was discovered £485 Thu 29 Mar (Easter) near Xi’an in North West China in 1974, and the story of the tomb’s Terracotta Warriors will be displayed alongside important artefacts. Later there is free £499 Thu 5 Jul time to explore the celebrated Albert Dock. £499 Thu 27 Sep

GreaT iTinerarY FroM £515

Suffolk Coast

ParK roYaL hoTeL, near WarrinGTon 4★

Excellent hotel set in two and a half acres of grounds at the edge of Stretton village. The hotel blends a mix of modern facilities with elegant grandeur. Part of the hotel was built in 1831 as a vicarage to the nearby St Matthew's Church. There are extensive leisure facilities including tennis courts. www.qhotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide • Anderton Boat Lift trip • Admission to Terracotta Warriors exhibition sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£88

£38

£80

£38

£80

£38

UK & ireLand

eXCUrsions inCLUded

and Countryside s aY d 5

Lavenham and Constable Country We take a leisurely morning drive to the picturepostcard town of Lavenham. Later we tour Constable Country, breaking for lunch in dedham. See picturesque villages, rolling farmland, rivers, meadows, ancient woodlands and a wide variety of local wildlife. scenic suﬀolk Coast Break for coﬀee at stonham Barns. Break for lunch in the picturesque resort of southwold, which has a pleasant pier and colourful beach huts, some of which sell for over £100,000 each! Later travel past ‘the House in the Clouds’ to attractive aldeburgh.

ickworth and Bury st edmunds We visit ickworth house (National Trust, admission extra). Built as an 18th century Italianstyle showcase for the Hervey family’s collections of Georgian silver, Regency furniture, books and ﬁne paintings – the grand central Rotunda dominates the landscape. Also enjoy some time to explore Bury st edmunds deParTUres PriCe (coach will set down in the centre). A traditional market town with a fascinating £515 Thu 29 Mar (Easter) heritage, there is a pleasing combination of medieval architecture, elegant £525 Georgian squares and the glorious Cathedral and Abbey Gardens. Why not pop Thu 28 Jun into The Nutshell, Britain’s smallest pub! £525 Thu 4 Oct

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

BesT WesTern PriorY hoTeL, BUrY sT edMUnds 3★

Excellent 18th century Grade II listed building on the outskirts of Bury St Edmunds, set in beautiful gardens. Our rooms are located in the courtyard. No lift (ground ﬂoor rooms, subject to availability). www.prioryhotel.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£20

£38

£20

£38

£20

£38

CaThedraL CiTies FroM £499

UK & ireLand

Yorkshire

eXCUrsions inCLUded

and Lincolnshire Explorer s aY d 5

historic Lincoln We visit the historic cathedral city of Lincoln. The cathedral is one of the ﬁnest Gothic buildings in Europe. Lincoln Castle is one of the most impressive remaining Norman castles and has one of only four original copies of Magna Carta. In the afternoon, we enjoy a cruise on Brayford Belle, for a diﬀerent perspective of this historic city.

Magnificent Medieval York A full day excursion to historic York, which has a multitude of attractions. In the Jorvik Centre discover the sights, sounds and smells of an authentically recreated Viking city as it stood over 1,000 years ago. The Castle Museum offers you the opportunity to stroll down an authentically recreated Victorian Street. See Mallard at The National Railway Museum. Housing some of the world's greatest treasures, York Minster is one of the world's most magnificent cathedrals, with foundations rooted in England's earliest religious history. Brodsworth hall and Gardens country home. Discover 150 years of family life documented at Brodsworth hall, from silk and chandeliers, to the austerity of life during WWII. Take a walk around the labyrinthine 'grand gardens in miniature', now restored to their Victorian heyday.

deLiGhTFUL £499

4★

Truly excellent modern Q Hotel, set in 190 acres of woodland, with a championship golf course and spa facilities. There are extensive leisure facilities. www.qhotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Brayford Belle boat trip • Admission to Brodsworth

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Thu 29 Mar (Easter)

£499

£88

£38

Thu 2 Aug

£515

£88

£38

UK & ireLand

Severn Valley

eXCUrsions inCLUded

and the Black and White Villages

s aY d 5

Worcester and river avon Cruise We visit the cathedral city of Worcester. The magniﬁcent cathedral has a variety of architecture, from Norman to Gothic and the Porcelain Museum is well worth a visit. In the afternoon, we travel to evesham to board a canal boat for a delightful two hour cruise through tranquil countryside on the River Avon with a delicious cream tea included. Black and White Villages Break for lunch in the attractive market town Leominster. Later follow the Black and White Village Trail, travelling through some of the most attractive villages in England including Weobley, Pembridge and Eardisland.

severn Valley railway and Wightwick Manor We enjoy a steam train ride on the severn Valley railway, one of the country’s ﬁnest heritage lines which runs for 16 miles from Kidderminster to Bridgnorth. In the afternoon, we visit Wightwick Manor and Gardens (National Trust, admission extra). This stunning house of the Aesthetic Movement was, by 1937, a relic of an out of fashion era (although then only 50 years old!). Yet, so complete was the design that it was worthy of preservation. There is a remarkable collection of Pre-Raphaelite PriCe paintings by Rossetti, Burne-Jones and their followers. The Edwardian garden is deParTUres a true gem. £499 Fri 6 Apr

ForesT Pines hoTeL and GoLF resorT, nr BroUGhTon

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

haLLMarK sToUrPorT Manor hoTeL, sToUrPorT-on-seVern 4★

Once the home of Prime Minister Sir Stanley Baldwin, this much extended country house is set in attractive grounds about 1½ miles from the centre of Stourport. A number of bedrooms and suites are located in the original building, although the majority are in a more modern, purpose-built section. No lift (there are several ground ﬂoor rooms, subject to availability). www.hallmarkhotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Severn Valley Railway ride • Cream tea cruise on the River Avon sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£100

£38

reLaX BY The sea £469

UK & ireLand

Eastbourne Break s 5 daY

eXCUrsions inCLUded Battle and hastings We travel to Battle, a charming market town which grew up around Battle Abbey, scene of the Battle of Hastings which took place on 14th October 1066. We continue to the resort of hastings. Bexhill-on-sea Morning visit to Bexhillon-Sea, the birthplace of British motor racing and home of the De La Warr Pavilion. Inspired by the 9th Earl De La Warr, the Pavilion was built in 1935 as a pioneering centre for cultural excellence for local people and visitors alike. In 2005, an £8m redevelopment programme continued that vision, creating an international centre for contemporary art.

BesT WesTern LansdoWne hoTeL, easTBoUrne 3★

This splendid traditional hotel enjoys an enviable position at the quieter end of the parade, overlooking the Western Lawns and Wish Tower and is just a few minutes' walk from many of the town's attractions. There are lovely comfortable lounges to relax in. Seaview rooms on request (supplement applies). Two nights entertainment. www.bw-lansdownehotel.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Mon 9 Apr

£469

£0

£38

Mon 4 Jun

£469

£0

£38

Mon 17 Sep

£469

£0

£38

Mon 8 Oct

£469

£0

£38

enGLish riViera £525

UK & ireLand

Torquay Break

eXCUrsions inCLUded

s aY d 5

discover dartmoor We explore dartmoor, an atmospheric National Park of tors and bogs, with wild ponies roaming free. We visit attractive Widdecombe-in-theMoor of ‘Uncle Tom Cobley’ fame, which has a large church, known as the ‘Cathedral of the Moor’. Later we cross the moor via Moretonhampstead, Postbridge and Princetown. south devon steam and sail day We travel to Paignton for a steam train ride on the dart Valley railway through beautiful scenery to Kingswear. Later we enjoy a leisurely cruise on the river dart, passing Kingswear and Dartmouth Castles, the Royal Naval College and Greenway House, once owned by Agatha Christie.

BesT WesTern LiVerMead CLiFF hoTeL, TorQUaY 3★

Beautifully situated at the water's edge, this long-established hotel, oﬀers friendly service and traditional hospitality. The splendid views can be enjoyed from the comfortable lounge, bar and dining room. You can even take refreshment on the delightful terrace. It’s a pleasant level walk to the town centre and marina. www.livermeadcliﬀ.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Dart Valley Railway ride • River Dart cruise

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Sun 15 Apr

£525

£60

£38

Sun 23 Sep

£525

£60

£38

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

eXCeLLenT hoTeL £579

UK & ireLand

Glorious Yorkshire 5 daYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded Castle howard Castle howard is a magnificent mansion which became widely known as the backdrop for the TV series ‘Brideshead Revisited’. The house was designed by Vanbrugh in the 18th century and is one of the finest stately homes in England, full of treasures and sumptuous interiors. Still lived in by the Howard Family, the house is set in 1000 acres, with splendid gardens. Magnificent Medieval York A full day excursion to historic York, which has a multitude of attractions. In the Jorvik Centre discover the sights, sounds and smells of an authentically recreated Viking city as it stood over 1,000 years ago. The Castle Museum offers you the opportunity to stroll down an authentically recreated Victorian Street. See Mallard at The National Railway Museum. Housing some of the world's greatest treasures, York Minster is one of the world's most magnificent cathedrals, with foundations rooted in England's earliest religious history. north York Moors and Whitby We travel to Pickering to take a ride on the north York Moors railway through glorious scenery to the picturesque fishing port of Whitby. The town is dominated by ruined Whitby Abbey, which inspired Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’.

aLdWarK Manor GoLF and sPa hoTeL 4★ AA

Mature parkland forms the impressive backdrop for this impressive 19thcentury mansion, with the River Ure ﬂowing gently through the hotel's own 18-hole golf course. This truly excellent hotel has lovely lounges and a terrace patio overlooking the gardens and golf course, ideal for a pre-dinner drink. The restaurant has an excellent reputation. www.qhotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Castle Howard • NYMR Railway ride

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Mon 9 Apr

£579

£100

£38

Mon 9 Jul

£579

£100

£38

Mon 17 Sep

£579

£100

£38

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

roYaL reTreaT FroM £469

UK & ireLand

Isle of Wight 5 daYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded Mottistone Gardens and isle of Wight Pearl We enjoy a Round the Island tour. We break for lunch at Isle of Wight Pearl. Situated on the stunning south west coast of the island, Isle of Wight Pearl holds the largest selection of pearl jewellery in the UK. In the afternoon, we visit Mottistone Gardens (National Trust, admission extra). Set in a sheltered valley this magical garden is full of surprises, with shrub-ﬁlled banks, hidden pathways and colourful herbaceous borders. Surrounding an attractive Elizabethan manor house this 20th-century garden is experimenting with a Mediterranean-style planting scheme to take advantage of its southerly location. West Wight We break for coﬀee at dimbola Lodge in Freshwater Bay, home of the celebrated Victorian photographer Julia Margaret Cameron. We break for lunch in the picturesque yachting haven of Yarmouth. We also visit Fort Victoria which has great views over the Solent.

Godshill and the donkey sanctuary Morning visit to the Isle of Wight donkey Sanctuary which cares for about 90 animals at any one time, each with its own unique story, but all have one thing in common – they need a home. We enjoy a lunch break in picturesque Godshill, before returning to attractive shanklin for some free time to explore. osborne house On our return journey, we visit osborne house (English Heritage, admission extra) the beloved seaside retreat of Queen Victoria. The Royal Apartments are full of treasured mementoes persevered almost deParTUres PriCe unaltered since £469 her death in 1901. Mon 16 Apr £529 Mon 23 Jul Mon 24 Sep

£519

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

BoUrne haLL CoUnTrY hoTeL, shanKLin 3★

Reputedly built in 1860 for one of Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting, this superb country hotel has retained its period features and sense of history. Uniquely located on an elevated position at the foot of Luccombe Downs, the hotel beneﬁts from both countryside and coastal vistas, but is only a few minutes’ walk from Shanklin Old Village. Premium rooms and suites available at a supplement (please ask at the time of booking). No lift and some stairs. www.bournehallhotel.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£0

£38

£0

£38

£0

£38

sTUnninG sCenerY £529

UK & ireLand

Lake District

eXCUrsions inCLUded

in the Spring s aY d 5

southern Lakeland We journey to the shores of Coniston, situated beneath the slopes of the ‘Old Man’. We continue to the pretty village of hawkshead for a lunch break. The Beatrix Potter Gallery, a 17th Century building, was once the oﬃce of the local solicitor William Heelis, who married Beatrix Potter in 1913 and has remained largely unaltered since his day. Ullswater Cruise and Keswick We travel to Ullswater and enjoy a steamer trip from Pooley Bridge to Glenridding; with spectacular views of mountains, plunging down to the lake, which inspired Wordsworth to compose his poem ‘Daﬀodils’. We continue via the spectacular Kirkstone Pass and run along the lower slopes of Helvellyn; breaking for lunch in Keswick, beautifully situated on Dewentwater, beneath mighty Skiddaw.

3★

Converted 18th century tannery set on ﬁve ﬂoors, situated on the banks of the River Kent in Kendal beneath the ruins of the town’s 12th century castle. A short walk away is the centre of this market town www.riversidekendal.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Ullswater steamer cruise

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Mon 23 Apr

£529

£80

£38

LUXUrY hoTeL £535

UK & ireLand

Kingdom of Northumbria

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Ys 5 da

alnwick Castle We visit alnwick Castle. The second largest inhabited castle in the country; home to the Duke of Northumberland's family, the Percys, for over 700 years. Combining magnificent medieval architecture with sumptuous Italianate State Rooms, the castle's rich history is brimming with drama, intrigue, and extraordinary people. It has also taken starring roles in a number of film and television productions, as the magnificent Brancaster Castle in Downton Abbey's 2014 Christmas Special and previously appearing as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films.

hadrian’s Wall We visit the nearby attractive market town of hexham. Later we explore hadrian’s Wall. Begun in AD122 to stop raids from the Pictish tribes in the north, the wall was the edge of the Roman Empire. Today large sections remain and we visit Chester’s (English Heritage, admission extra), one of the best-preserved forts, with a ﬁne collection of Roman ‘ﬁnds’. Lindisfarne and Bamburgh We travel to the holy island of Lindisfarne, one of the foremost religious sites in the world, where Saint Aidan established a monastery in 635AD. We also visit Bamburgh which has an imposing castle and is also known for the exploits of Grace Darling.

riVerside hoTeL, KendaL

sLaLeY haLL hoTeL, heXhaM 4★

Slaley Hall is an Edwardian mansion house, with a modern twist set in 1000 acres of Northumberland countryside, near Hexham. It has a luxury spa, 2 PGA Championship golf courses, 3 restaurants and wonderful views. www.qhotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Alnwick Castle • Admission to the Lindisfarne Centre

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Mon 30 Apr

£535

£100

£38

Mon 29 Oct

£535

£100

£38

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

CanaLside hoTeL £549

UK & ireLand

Skipton and the Yorkshire Dales 5 daYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded Yorkshire train and canal day out In the morning, we enjoy a one hour cruise on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, passing picturesque buildings and scenery. We break for lunch in the Bronte’s Haworth. In the afternoon, we take a steam train ride on the Keighley and Worth Valley railway. One of the finest heritage railways in the country, the line is best remembered for the 1970 film, The Railway Children. exploring The dales A full day exploring the beautiful Yorkshire dales, where we enjoy a visit to the pretty Wharfedale market town of Grassington. Later we travel via Kettlewell, the location used to represent the village of ‘Knapely’ in the 2003 film ‘Calendar Girls’, to Hawes, beautifully situated in Wensleydale. We return via Ribblesdale, passing the impressive ribblehead Viaduct. harewood house harewood is a historic Georgian property sitting within a ‘Capability’ Brown designed landscape, has remarkable views from the award-winning Terraces. It is one of the Treasure Houses of England, with outstanding art collections, magnificent Adam interiors and Chippendale furniture. The state rooms are stunning and there is an exhibition dedicated to Lord Harewood’s mother HRH Princess Mary.

rendezVoUs hoTeL, sKiPTon 3★

Excellent family-run hotel located on the outskirts of the delightful market town of Skipton, by the Leeds and Liverpool Canal (some rooms overlook the canal). Hotel of the Year winner in 2016 at the National Coach Tourism Awards. www.rendezvous-skipton.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Train ride • Canal cruise • Admission to Harewood House

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Sun 29 Apr

£549

£100

£38

Sun 22 Jul

£549

£100

£38

Sun 21 Oct

£549

£100

£38

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

GreaT VaLUe £439

UK & ireLand

Shropshire Explorer

eXCUrsions inCLUded Medieval shrewsbury shrewsbury is a splendid medieval town with winding streets with unusual names such as Bear Steps, Wyle Cop and Grope Lane, full of half-timbered buildings. There are over 600 listed buildings, including the castle and abbey. We enjoy a boat trip on the river severn, aboard the Sabrina, travelling round the horseshoe loop in the river and viewing the attractive waterfront (tea and biscuits included).

s aY d 5

historic Ludlow Morning visit to the shropshire hills Visitor Centre, which includes a virtual ‘balloon ride’ over the hills! We continue to delightful Ludlow. Ludlow is a very attractive market town, full of old buildings including an imposing castle, perched high above the River Teme. aqueduct cruise We travel to attractive riverside town of Llangollen. In the afternoon we take a memorable cruise on the Llangollen Canal. We enjoy two hours of peaceful cruising through the stunning Dee valley, recently awarded 'World Heritage Status'. The journey ﬁnishes over the famous and thrilling Pontcysyllte aqueduct, built by Thomas Telford in 1805 and unsurpassed to this day in its simplicity and engineering achievement.

The recently refurbished Buckatree Hall Hotel is set in scenic woodland at the foot of the Wrekin, in tranquil Shropshire. Originally a hunting lodge, the house was completely rebuilt in the 1920s. www.buckatreehallhotel.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • River Severn boat trip with tea and biscuits • Admission to Shropshire Hills Visitor Centre • Llangollen Canal trip

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Mon 30 Apr

£439

£60

£38

UK & ireLand

Devon Coast and Exmoor

eXCUrsions inCLUded

s aY d 5

3★

deParTUres

CenTraL hoTeL FroM £499

attractive rosemoor We enjoy some free time to explore the market town of Barnstaple. We continue to Bideford for a lunch break. Beautifully situated on the River Torridge, this attractive town has lanes lined with quirky little shops and a good selection of cafes. In the afternoon, we visit rosemoor. Surrounded by woodland, Rosemoor is a true plantsman’s paradise, with attractive features and a variety of vistas. spectacular north devon coast Visit Lynmouth, a picturesque village with a small harbour linked to Lynton by a Victorian funicular railway. Later travel along the dramatic north devon Coast, where steep cliﬀs plunge down to the Atlantic Ocean. We return via exmoor, where the attractive moorland is dotted with picturesque villages.

delightful ilfracombe Visit the attractive seaside resort of ilfracombe, with white-washed houses and grand Victorian villas surrounded by cliﬀs. The ‘Jewel of the North Devon Coast’ has a pleasant small harbour, full of sailing boats, surrounded by traditional cafes and restaurants.

BUCKaTree haLL hoTeL, near TeLFord

roYaL and ForTesCUe hoTeL, BarnsTaPLe 3★

Formerly a coaching inn, this friendly and convivial hotel is conveniently located right in the centre of town. Part of the Brend Group, this hotel is subject to very good reports from our clients. www.royalfortescue.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Rosemoor

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Sun 6 May

£535

£40

£38

Sun 14 Oct

£499

£40

£38

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

Three CLassiC rides £629

UK & ireLand

Great Little Trains of Wales s aY d 5

eXCUrsions inCLUded Ffestiniog railway The Ffestiniog railway is the world's oldest narrow-gauge railway with almost 200 years of history, taking you on a 13½-mile journey from the harbour in Porthmadog to the slate-quarrying town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. The historic train climbs over 700 feet from sea level into the mountains through tranquil pastures and magniﬁcent forests, past lakes and waterfalls, round tight bends (even a complete spiral) clinging to the side of the mountain or tunnelling through it.

Welsh highland railway We take a ride on the Welsh highland railway along the recently opened section from Caernarfon all the way to Porthmadog. This steam train ride is truly unforgettable, as the track winds its way ‘coast to coast’ through beautiful Snowdonian scenery. Twisting and turning to Beddgelert, the train then travels through the picturesque Pass of Aberglaslyn to the sea at Porthmadog. snowdon Mountain railway A truly unforgettable day, travelling on the snowdon Mountain railway. At 3560 feet, Snowdon is the ‘Rooftop of Wales’, with awe-inspiring views in every direction. We begin our journey at Llanberis Station and the train climbs steeply through ancient forests, past a glistening waterfall and over two viaducts, before the ascent to the craggy summit. The Summit Visitor Centre opened in 2009 and is a wonderful landmark building with refreshments and stunning views. deParTUres PriCe

3★

Stylish traditional hotel with excellent facilities, located about a ten minute walk from Caernarfon Castle. There’s an Art Deco bar and plenty of lounge areas to relax. www.celtic-royal.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Ffestiniog Railway ride • Welsh Highland Railway ride • Snowdon Mountain Railway ride

£629

Mon 7 May

LoVeLY VieWs £565

CeLTiC roYaL hoTeL, CaernarFon

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£96

£38

UK & ireLand

Hitting The Heights in Dorset!

s aY d 5

eXCUrsions inCLUded Forde abbey We visit Forde abbey, one of Britain’s great ‘hidden gems’ for a private guided tour. More than 900 years of history and romance are encapsulated in this elegant former Cistercian monastery and its 30 acres of award-winning gardens. The simple monastic rooms are in contrast to the grand state rooms of the mansion. The gardens are a joy with pleasant pathways, ponds and fountains.

abbotsbury swannery and Weymouth Morning visit for a guided tour of abbotsbury swannery, set in a unique natural wildlife habitat and popular with film makers. Established by Benedictine Monks, who built a monastery at Abbotsbury during the 1040's, the monks farmed the swans to produce food for lavish Dorset banquets! See graceful free flying birds and the mass hand feeding of 600 swans at noon. Afternoon at leisure to explore Weymouth, which has a sandy beach, picturesque harbour and a variety of traditional attractions. The resort has fine Georgian architecture and Queen Victoria's Jubilee Clock. Purbeck discovery We travel through the attractive countryside of the Isle of Purbeck, breaking for coffee in the historic riverside town of Wareham. We continue to the delightful old-fashioned resort of deParTUres PriCe swanage for a lunch break. We take a pleasant afternoon steam train ride £565 through beautiful countryside on the swanage railway, to historic Corfe Castle. Mon 14 May Mon 1 Oct

£565

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

The heiGhTs hoTeL, PorTLand 3★

With some of the best coastal views from any English hotel, The Heights Hotel overlooks Chesil Beach and Lyme Bay. The views from the bar and restaurant are particularly impressive. The hotel is modern and the restaurant serves local produce. www.heightshotel.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Private guided tour of Forde Abbey • Admission to Abbotsbury Swannery • Swanage Railway ride sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£60

£38

£60

£38

deLiGhTFUL £469

UK & ireLand

Chatsworth

eXCUrsions inCLUded

and Delightful Derbyshire s aY d 5

spas and dambusters We travel through the derbyshire dales to the delightful spa town of Buxton for a coffee break. Later we travel via Snake Pass and Featherbed Top, passing Ladybower Reservoir, where the ‘Dambusters’ practiced their low-level flying, to picturesque Castleton, the ‘Gem of the Peak District’, for a lunch break. Bakewell and Matlock Bath We visit Bakewell, home of the famous pudding. The fine spire of All Saints Church looks down on the town, where there are some grand old houses, notably the Market Hall, The Old Town Hall and the Almshouses on South Church Street. The ancient five arched bridge is much painted by artists. We return with a stop at Matlock Bath, beautifully situated by the River Derwent.

Magnificent Chatsworth Chatsworth is one of the most glorious stately homes in England and a treasure trove of modern and historic artefacts. Wander around the three floors where you can see magnificent displays of art, furniture, sculptures and paintings housed in ornately decorated rooms. There is just as much to see outside with 1000 deParTUres PriCe acres of gardens described by Alan Titchmarsh as 'one of the best and most vibrant gardens in Britain', with the Emperor Fountain a celebrated feature. £469 Fri 25 May

Stylish modern hotel located about four miles from Derby. With a striking circular lobby area, with lots of comfortable seating and a glass lift, the hotel is very well appointed and the tropical-styled indoor pool is a particular feature. www.hallmarkhotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Chatsworth sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£60

£38

£60

£38

UK & ireLand

Made in England

eXCUrsions inCLUded

aeroplanes and hats We enjoy a private guided of the newly opened avro heritage Museum on the site of the old Woodford Airfield. The state-of-the-art museum tells the history of this renowned aircraft manufacturer. Exhibits include a Vulcan bomber. Later we visit the stockport hatworks. The museum is home to a recreated hat factory with some 20 fully restored working Victorian-style machines and a fantastic collection of over 400 hats from around the world. JCB Factory Tour We visit the JCB Factory near Uttoxeter. We take a personal tour of the ‘’Story of JCB’’ exhibition with time to visit the JCB shop. The tour then continues onto the assembly line of the world-famous Backhoe Loader machine. Here you will see the process of how the machine is built from the delivery of the sheet steel, profiling, laser cutting, welding, paint shop, assembly and finally the finished product! Wedgwood We enjoy a guided tour to view craftsmen at work in the heart of the Potteries, utilising unique artisan skills and techniques honed over 250 years at Barlaston, the home of Wedgwood. The tour offers an in depth view of all aspects of quality ceramic production including casting, figure making, pattern decorating and hand painting, ornamentation and gilding. See iconic Jasper pieces in deParTUres PriCe production showcasing the pinnacle of ceramic craftsmanship. £515 Mon 28 May

Ys 5 da

4★

£469

Fri 24 Aug

neW ToUr £515

haLLMarK MiCKLeoVer CoUrT hoTeL, near derBY

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

BesT WesTern PLUs sToKe-on-TrenT MoaT hoUse 4★

Large, highly-rated modern hotel in a quiet location in Stoke's Festival Park, which adjoins Etruria Hall, the former home of Josiah Wedgwood. www.bw-stokeontrentmoathouse.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Avro Heritage Museum • Admission to Stockport Hatworks • JCB Factory Tour • Guided tour of Wedgwood sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£80

£38

sUPerB ToUr £565

UK & ireLand

Portmeirion,

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Puffins and Snowdonia s aY d 5

Welsh highland railway and Portmeirion Morning visit to Portmeirion. Designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975, Portmeirion recreates an Italian village, with a truly Mediterranean feel. There are many unusual and romantically styled buildings and the village was the backdrop for the 1960s TV series ‘The Prisoner’. There is a shop selling the whole range of Portmeirion ware. In the afternoon we enjoy a ride on the Welsh highland railway, through beautiful scenery back to Caernarfon. Llandudno We visit the pleasant seaside resort of Llandudno. There’s plenty of time to stroll along the pleasant promenade or the longest pier in Wales. Alternatively, why not take a tram up the mighty Great Orme? We return via snowdonia and the Llanberis Pass.

Puffins and Plas newydd In the morning, we take a memorable one hour cruise from Beaumaris Pier to Puffin island. The island has 12 species of sea birds resident including guillemots, cormorants, kittiwakes and of course, puffins! There is also a seal colony there, so make sure you remember your camera! Afternoon visit to Plas newydd PriCe (National Trust, admission extra). This splendid country house is set in beautiful deParTUres gardens and has spectacular views across the Menai Straits. £565 Mon 4 Jun

3★

Lovely Grade I listed hotel dating from 1832, located close to the Castle, in the centre of town. Enjoy lovely views of the Menai Straits and mountains of Snowdonia from the public areas. www.bulkeleyhotel.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Portmeirion • Welsh Highland Railway ride • Puﬃn Island Cruise

£565

Mon 17 Sep

rUraL deLiGhTs £515

BULKeLeY hoTeL, BeaUMaris

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£80

£38

£80

£38

UK & ireLand

Somerset Explorer and Slimbridge s aY d 5

eXCUrsions inCLUded Marvellous slimbridge The birthplace of modern conservation, slimbridge Wetland Centre is the ideal place to get closer to nature. With an astounding array of wildlife from water voles to waders, hares to dragonflies, Slimbridge is home to the world's largest collection of swans, geese, and ducks. Slimbridge is also only place in the world where you can see all six different species of flamingos.

steam and the seaside We travel to Bishops Lydeard for a ride on the scenic West somerset railway which runs beside the Quantock Hills for 23 miles, the longest steam heritage line in the country and a country branch line of the old Great Western Railway. Break for lunch in Dunster, which has an imposing castle. We return via delightful Burnham-on-sea, which has one of the longest sandy beaches in Europe! secret somerset A leisurely tour of the Somerset lanes via the Mendips to the attractive cathedral city of Wells and Glastonbury, renowned for its festival and Abbey, full of legends about King Arthur and the Holy Grail. Also, we visit Cheddar famous for its cheese and the spectacular gorge.

BesT WesTern WaLTon ParK hoTeL, CLeVedon 3★

Splendid traditional hotel occupying a stunning cliﬀ top location and charmingly nestled in two acres of landscaped gardens overlooking the Severn Estuary and Welsh Hills. www.waltonparkhotel.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Slimbridge • West Somerset Railway ride

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Sun 10 Jun

£515

£60

£38

Sun 30 Sep

£515

£60

£38

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

FanTasTiC FeaThers £469

Ludlow,

UK & ireLand

eXCUrsions inCLUded

The Feathers and the Shropshire Hills s 5 daY

Black and White Villages We follow the Black and White Village Trail, travelling through some of the most attractive villages in England including Weobley, Pembridge and Eardisland to the historic cathedral city of hereford. historic Ludlow Morning visit to the nearby shropshire hills Visitor Centre, which includes a virtual ‘balloon ride’ over the hills! Afternoon at leisure. Ludlow is a very attractive market town, full of old buildings including an imposing castle, perched high above the River Teme. Medieval shrewsbury We travel via the Shropshire Hills to shrewsbury. This splendid medieval town has winding streets with unusual names such as Bear Steps, Wyle Cop and Grope Lane, full of half-timbered buildings. There are over 600 listed buildings, including the castle and abbey. We enjoy a boat trip on the river severn, aboard the Sabrina, travelling round the horseshoe loop in the river and viewing the attractive waterfront (tea and biscuits included).

One of the most famous inns in the country. Famous for the carved woodwork outside and in, this picturepostcard 17th-century hotel is one of the town's best-known landmarks and is in an excellent location. The public areas have retained much of the traditional charm, and the ﬁrst-ﬂoor lounge is particularly stunning. www.feathersatludlow.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • River Severn boat trip with tea and biscuits • Admission to Shropshire Hills Visitor Centre

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Mon 18 Jun

£469

£60

£38

Mon 17 Sep

£469

£60

£38

UK & ireLand

eXCUrsions inCLUded

by Coach and ‘Goat’! Ys 5 da

‘Mountain Goat’ day out A memorable day exploring the lanes of the Lakes, not accessible by a large coach, on a ‘Mountain Goat’ minibus. We travel over the Wrynose and Hardknott Passes, the steepest in England. We drive past the extraordinary remains of Hardknott Roman Fort, 1000ft up on the fells. We break for lunch in Eskdale before boarding La’al Ratty, the ravenglass and eskdale railway. In the afternoon, we drive onward to ‘Britain’s Favourite View’, Wastwater; England’s deepest and most dramatic lake. Our next destination is the splendid 14th Century Muncaster Castle surrounded by its internationally acclaimed gardens and famous for its World Owl Trust. The beautiful scenery of the Coniston Fells and Coniston Water bring to an end this classic of all Lake District tours as we drive back to Keswick

inspiring Ullswater We journey via the shores of Ullswater, one of the most dramatic lakes in Cumbria, enjoying the spectacular views of mountains, plunging down to the lake, which inspired Wordsworth to compose deParTUres PriCe his poem ‘Daﬀodils’. We continue via the spectacular Kirkstone Pass to Bowness, where we break for lunch. £575 Sun 24 Jun Mon 10 Sep

3★

deParTUres

sPeCTaCULar sCenerY FroM £575

Lake District

FeaThers hoTeL, LUdLoW

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

£585

sKiddaW hoTeL, KesWiCK 3★

Highly regarded traditional hotel with a warm welcome located right in the heart of Keswick, overlooking Market Square. Within walking distance of the Derwentwater. There is a quiet residents lounge. www.lakedistricthotels.net What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Mountain Goat minibus tour • Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway ride • Admission to Muncaster Castle grounds sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£0

£38

£0

£38

sensaTionaL sWansea £539

UK & ireLand

Swansea,

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Gower and the National Botanic Garden 5d

aYs

swansea and the glorious Gower Peninsula Morning free to explore swansea, second largest city in Wales. See the Maritime Quarter, Waterfront Museum, Dylan Thomas Centre and Castle. In the afternoon, we travel to the Gower Peninsula, the ﬁrst place in Britain to be designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is a picturesque area with rugged limestone cliﬀs and golden sands. We visit the attractive small village of Rhossili at the western end of Gower. rhossili Bay was voted best beach in the UK for two years running!

national Botanic Garden of Wales The national Botanic Garden's centrepiece is the Great Glasshouse designed by world-famous architects Norman Foster and Partners Inside the amazing tilted glass dome is a Mediterranean landscape dominated by a six-metre deep ravine. Rock terraces and sheer faces are cut by streams and waterfalls. A lake provides a humid habitat at the foot of the chasm. Visitors are able to experience the aftermath of an Australian bush ﬁre, pause in a Spanish olive grove or wander through collections of fuschias from Chile. dinefwr We visit dinefwr (National Trust, admission extra), a National Nature Reserve, historic house and 18th century landscape park, enclosing a 100 acre medieval deParTUres deer park. See Newton House, a Victorian Gothic mansion based on an earlier Sun 24 Jun 16th Century castle, reputedly one of the most haunted houses in Britain. Mon 27 Aug

LUXUrY hoTeL £599

MarrioTT hoTeL, sWansea 4★

Modern luxury hotel in an excellent position, on the waterfront overlooking the marina, close to the shops and National Waterfront Museum. www.marriott.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to National Botanic Garden of Wales

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£539

£120

£38

£539

£120

£38

UK & ireLand

Colourful Norfolk 5d

aYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded norfolk Lavender Travel to Kings Lynn, an attractive town with many fine old buildings. In the afternoon, we visit norfolk Lavender, where we tour the local villages by coach and later enjoy a delicious cream tea. norwich and The Broads In the morning, we travel to Wroxham for a leisurely 90 minute cruise on the norfolk Broads. This beautiful area is a haven for rare flora and fauna. In the afternoon, we return to norwich (coach will set down in the centre). Norwich has a magnificent cathedral, a Norman castle and excellent shopping. scenic north norfolk We travel along the beautiful north Norfolk coast via Wells-next-theSea to sheringham for a return ride on the North Norfolk Railway, known as the ‘Poppy Line’. We stay in this attractive old-fashioned resort for lunch. Later we travel to the resort of Cromer, famous for its crab fishing.

Bressingham and dad’s army On our return journey we visit Bressingham, a wonderful combination of gardens, steam railways and ‘Dads Army’! Bressingham is world-renowned for horticultural excellence and the steam train rides through the gardens and woodland are terriﬁc fun. The national Dads deParTUres PriCe Army Collection lets you walk through Walmington-on-Sea, with original props £599 Mon 25 Jun and vehicles. Mon 10 Sep

£599

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

MarrioTT sProWsTon Manor hoTeL, nr norWiCh 4★

A truly impressive manor house hotel, set in 170 acres of parkland located 4 miles from the centre of Norwich. Excellent facilities including a lovely indoor pool and an 18-hole golf course. The hotel has impressive public areas. Lift does not serve all rooms. www.marriott.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Norfolk Lavender village tour and cream tea • Norfolk Broads cruise • Poppy Line train ride • Admission to Bressingham sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£100

£38

£100

£38

sTUnninG VieWs FroM £489

UK & ireLand

Cardigan Bay

eXCUrsions inCLUded

and Pembrokeshire Explorer

Ys 5 da

Picturesque Tenby We travel to the attractive seaside resort of Tenby. This popular town has a maze of narrow streets lined with Georgian houses, a picturesque harbour, sandy beaches and 13th century walls. You can take a boat trip to nearby Caldey Island, where there is a Cistercian monastery, which dates from the 12th century. scenic Cardigan Bay We break for coﬀee in the pretty Georgian port of aberaeron, a charming town with multicoloured houses clustered around an attractive harbour. We continue to aberystwyth for a lunch break; the principal holiday resort and administrative centre of the west coast of Wales. The wide promenade has a wealth of Victorian and Edwardian buildings. The Aberystwyth Electric Cliﬀ Railway is the longest in Britain. In the afternoon, we enjoy a steam train ride on the wonderful Vale of rheidol railway. The hour long journey to devil’s Bridge travels through stunning scenery.

Beautiful Pembrokeshire We travel to the remarkable little city of st david’s, resting place of the patron saint of Wales. We also visit Fishguard, where there is a tapestry in the Town Hall depicting the last invasion of Britain in 1797, when French troops came ashore nearby.

3★

Comfortable hotel in a stunning cliﬀ top location overlooking beautiful Cardigan Bay, set in 30 acres of grounds, with a 9hole golf course. Weather permitting, the sunsets are truly unforgettable! Spa facilities available (extra charge). www.cliﬀhotel.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Vale of Rheidol Railway ride

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Mon 2 Jul

£515

£0

£38

Mon 3 Sep

£489

£0

£38

WYe noT? £569

UK & ireLand

Chepstow,

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean

Ys 5 da

Beautiful Wye Valley We visit the attractive riverside town of ross-onWye, which has many old buildings and a 17th century market hall. After lunch we enjoy a tour of the Wye Valley. We make a brief stop at Yat rock, a sheer cliﬀ overlooking a bend in the River Wye, where if you are lucky you might see Peregrine Falcons, which nest there. The Wye Valley is one of the most scenic areas of southern Britain and witnessed the birth of British tourism in the 18th century. We enjoy a Welsh cream tea at The Anchor in Tintern, located in the grounds of the evocative ruins of Tintern abbey. Forest of dean Once a royal hunting forest, the Forest of dean later played a part in the Industrial Revolution and is now a peaceful haven for ﬂora and fauna. We stop at the dean heritage Centre, which tells the story of this fascinating area. Later we enjoy a steam train ride on the dean Forest railway.

Brecon Beacons We visit abergavenny, the ‘Gateway to the Brecon Beacons’. A lively town, with a ruined castle, Abergavenny is spectacularly situated surrounded by three mountains. In the afternoon, we explore the beautiful Brecon Beacons.

CLiFF hoTeL and sPa, GWBerT-on-sea

sT Pierre hoTeL and CoUnTrY CLUB, near ChePsToW 4★

A truly excellent hotel and country club, famous as a championship golf course. The public areas include a 14th century manor house. No lift (ground ﬂoor rooms available on request). www.marriott.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Dean Heritage Centre • Dean Forest Railway ride • Welsh cream tea

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Mon 2 Jul

£569

£100

£38

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

TasTY TreaTs £545

UK & ireLand

A Taste of Devon

eXCUrsions inCLUded

and Somerset

Ys 5 da

steam and cream tea We follow the Exe Valley and cross Exmoor to dunster, a picturesque town which is dominated by its castle. In the afternoon, we enjoy a ride on the scenic West somerset railway which runs beside the Quantock Hills for 23 miles, the longest steam heritage line in the country and a country branch line of the old Great Western Railway. We have included a delicious cream tea on board.

sheppy’s Cider We travel to sheppy’s Cider near Taunton. We will be taken on foot to our apple orchards. The next stop is one of the vat houses where apple juice is fermented and our ciders are aged in oak and steel. Finally, we have the chance to experience the 200-year history of Sheppy’s Cider through the artefacts in the rural life museum. We enjoy a West Country Ploughman’s Lunch, with a piece of Cheddar Cheese, a slice of West country Gammon Ham with Mustard and Pickles; Coleslaw, Lettuce, Tomato, Cucumber and Celery. Slices of Baguette & Butter (drinks extra). Barnstaple and Quince honey Farm We visit the market town of Barnstaple. Take time to visit the pannier market, which dates from 1855. In the afternoon, we visit Quince honey Farm, with a guided tour of Beeworld and a tasting Cheddar Cheese On our return journey, we visit the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company for a demonstration at the only remaining cheesemaker in Cheddar.

BesT WesTern TiVerTon hoTeL, TiVerTon 3★

Modern hotel located in a pleasant suburban area just outside Tiverton. No lift, but ground ﬂoor rooms are available on request). www.bw-tivertonhotel.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Steam train ride with cream tea • Horse boat cruise • Honey Farm visit • Cheesemakers visit • Cider farm visit with lunch

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Mon 9 Jul

£545

£88

£38

GreaT eXhiBiTion £549

UK & ireLand

Durham,

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Beamish and the Great Exhibition of the North Ys a d 5

historic durham The city is dominated by a Norman castle and cathedral. The castle was built in 1071 by William the Conqueror and was later the seat of the Bishops of durham. The cathedral is one of the great buildings of Europe, set on a rocky promontory overlooking a sharp bend in the River Wear. Beamish The North of England Open Air Museum shows life as it was in the early 1800s and 1900s. Beamish stands in 300 acres of beautiful County Durham countryside. Within the site you will ﬁnd Pockerley Old Hall, The Town, Rowley Station, The Fairground, Home Farm and The Pit Village. Each area of the Museum tells the story of Georgian, Victorian or Edwardian living. There are vintage trams and buses, to make travelling around the museum easier.

newcastle and the Great exhibition of the north The Great exhibition of the north takes place from June to September 2018 across Newcastle/Gateshead showcasing the great art, culture, design and innovation from across the North of England. We visit The Great north Museum: hancock, which was purpose built in Newcastle as a natural history museum in 1884 and is one of the venues for the event. Later we travel to the waterfront in Newcastle, deParTUres PriCe where the Sage and Baltic are also venues. Mon 16 Jul

£549

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

The redWorTh haLL hoTeL, redWorTh 4★

Splendid Jacobean manor house with many original features including the magniﬁcent Great Hall, an ornate staircase, lounges and attractive bedrooms. There are also extensive leisure facilities, croquet and tennis courts. www.thecairncollection.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Beamish sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£95

£38

GreaT For sinGLes £519

Scottish Borders Explorer Ys 5 da

UK & ireLand

eXCUrsions inCLUded Magnificent Floors Castle Floors is Scotland’s largest inhabited castle. Home of the Duke of Roxburghe, built in 1721 to designs by William Adam and remodelled on baronial style by Playfair 1838-49, this immense and palatial house contains fine French furniture, porcelain and paintings. James II of Scotland was killed in the grounds when a cannon blew up during the siege of Roxburghe in 1460. Explore the extensive parkland and gardens overlooking the Tweed, walled gardens with herbaceous borders and a magnificent French-style parterre constructed on the Queen's Lawn to commemorate the millennium. royal Yacht Britannia and edinburgh We travel to edinburgh, capital of Scotland. We visit the royal Yacht Britannia, at its mooring in historic Leith. The self-guided audio tour covers five decks of this great vessel. We see the state rooms that have welcomed visitors from Sir Winston Churchill to Nelson Mandela. Also see the engine room, an on-board garage and the Queen’s bedroom. Later we enjoy some free time in the city.

Courtesy Merseytravel

Traditional hotel with extensive leisure and spa facilities located just a stone's throw from Peebles town centre. The iconic hotel building oﬀers great view of the Tweed Valley below. Twin and double rooms available on request. www.peebleshydro.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Royal Yacht Britannia • Admission to Floors Castle

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Sun 29 Jul

£519

£0

£38

UK & ireLand

Manchester Ship Canal Cruise, Liverpool and

3★

deParTUres

FanTasTiC ToUr £599

Martin Mere

PeeBLes hYdro, PeeBLes

Ys 5 da

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Manchester ship Canal We enjoy the six hour cruise along the Manchester ship Canal from Liverpool to salford Quays, a fascinating 35 mile journey. A commentary tells of how this major artery shaped the city of Manchester and the north west of England. Opened in 1894, The "Big Ditch" (as it is said to be known to locals) consists of the Rivers Irwell and Mersey made navigable to Manchester for seagoing ships leaving the Mersey Estuary at Eastham Locks. See the impressive Victorian Barton Swing Aqueduct, which carries the Bridgewater Canal over the Manchester Ship Canal. There’s a bar and servery on board, selling drinks and snacks.

delightful Martin Mere In the morning, we visit Martin Mere Wildlife and Wetlands Trust. Your friendly and informative guide will show you round this unique wetland area which has a huge variety of rare birds and mammals to admire. In the summer, wading birds breed and feed, watched by Raptors, with a huge variety of butterflies and dragonflies. Autumnwatch has been filmed here on two occasions. Later we travel into the traditional resort of southport.

MerCUre aTLanTiC ToWer hoTeL, LiVerPooL 3★

Modern hotel which has been recently been refurbished. Located opposite the Liver Building and within easy walking distance of the attractions of Albert Dock, Mersey Ferry, sightseeing buses and the Cavern. www.mercure.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Manchester Ship Canal cruise • Admission to Martin Mere

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Mon 13 Aug

£599

£102

£38

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

neW ToUr £465

UK & ireLand

Yorkshire Boats,

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Vines and Lines

Ys a d 5

Brontes haworth and the ‘railway Children’ This morning we travel to Keighley where we join the Keighley and Worth Valley railway for a steam train journey through the Worth Valley to Haworth. One of the ﬁnest heritage railways in the country, the line is best remembered for the 1970 ﬁlm, The Railway Children. We have free time in haworth to explore the cobbled main street with its art galleries, an array of places to eat and drink and shops.

Cedar CoUrT hoTeL, hUddersFieLd 3★

Smart modern hotel with extensive facilities located on the outskirts of Huddersﬁeld. www.cedarcourthotels.co.uk What’s included

standedge Tunnel and saddleworth Moor Today we depart for Marsden to visit Britain’s longest canal tunnel standedge Tunnel. At 3¼ miles long and over 200 years old. Typical cargoes included wool, coal and horse manure! Included is a 30 minute boat trip into the tunnel, one of the entertaining guides will thrill you with tales of folk who designed, built and worked in it. There is also an exhibition centre and café. After time for lunch here we take a scenic drive deParTUres PriCe back to the hotel over the bleak but beautiful saddleworth Moor. £465 Sun 19 Aug

BeaUTiFUL VieWs £595

• Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Tour and Tasting at Holmﬁrth Vineyard • Train journey from Keighley to Haworth • Boat Trip into Standedge Tunnel sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£60

£38

UK & ireLand

Yorkshire Coast

eXCUrsions inCLUded

and Moors Ys a d 5

‘Last of the summer Wine’ Our day begins with a visit to holmﬁrth Vineyard where we tour the vineyard learning about the grapes before we enjoy a tasting of 3 English wines – a red, rose and white. We continue into the village of holmﬁrth, home of ‘Last of the Summer Wine’.

Whitby and north York Moors railway We visit the picturesque fishing port of Whitby. The town is dominated by ruined Whitby Abbey, which inspired Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’. In the afternoon, we board the north Yorkshire Moors railway for a steam train ride on the newly opened stretch, through glorious scenery to Pickering. scarborough We visit the nearby resort of scarborough. The town became known as probably the world’s first seaside resort back in the 1600s, when the health-giving properties of the Spa waters were discovered. Bathing machines to preserve swimmers’ modesty as they took to the sea were first seen here. And by the mid1800s, with the coming of the railways and the popularity of sea bathing on the rise, Scarborough was the venue for two of the world’s first purpose-built hotels.

Burton agnes hall We travel along the Yorkshire Coast via Filey and Bridlington to Burton agnes hall, ‘East Yorkshire’s hidden gem’. Simon Jenkins, author of England's Thousand Best Houses, described Burton Agnes Hall as ‘the perfect English house’ and as one of the twenty best in the country. Fifteen generations have ﬁlled this Elizabethan hall with treasures, from magniﬁcent carvings deParTUres PriCe commissioned when the Hall was built to French Impressionist paintings, contemporary furniture, tapestries and other modern artwork in recent years. £595 Mon 3 Sep

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

raVen haLL CoUnTrY hoUse hoTeL, nr sCarBoroUGh 3★

Lovely country house hotel in a stunning cliﬀ top location. This impressive cliﬀ top mansion enjoys breathtaking views over Robin Hood's Bay. Extensive wellkept grounds include tennis courts, putting green, swimming pools and historic battlements. www.ravenhall.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • NYMR Railway ride • Admission to Burton Agnes Hall sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£0

£38

neW desTinaTion £519

Llangollen

UK & ireLand

eXCUrsions inCLUded

and the Welsh Borders Ys 5 da

Llangollen Canal Cruise We enjoy a horse-drawn cruise on the Llangollen Canal. A leisurely ride along the last stretch of the Llangollen Canal, not navigable by other boats. A stop at the end allows us to admire the Chain Bridge across the River Dee and marvel at the man-made Horseshoe Falls, a masterpiece by Thomas Telford. The rest of the day is free to explore Llangollen, a delightful little town with a wealth of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. spectacular snowdonia We enjoy a drive through the beautiful scenery of snowdonia. We travel via the dramatic Pass of Nant Ffrancon and break for lunch in the town of Llanberis. We return via the spectacular Llanberis Pass, enjoying magniﬁcent mountain views.

erdigg We cross the scenic Horseshoe Pass to the delightful little historic town of ruthin, where we break for lunch. In the afternoon we visit erdigg, near Wrexham (National Trust, admission extra). Widely acclaimed as one of Britain's finest historic houses, Erddig is a fascinating, yet unpretentious early 18th-century country house reflecting the upstairs downstairs life of a gentry family over 250 years. The extensive downstairs area contains Erddig's unique collection of servants' portraits, while the upstairs rooms are an amazing treasure trove of fine furniture, textiles and wallpapers. Outside, an impressive range of outbuildings includes deParTUres PriCe stables, smithy, joiners' shop and sawmill. £519 Mon 8 Oct

aUTUMn CoLoUrs £479

Lake District in the Autumn Ys 5 da

3★

The 130 year old Bryn Howel Hotel is located in a stunning tranquil, rural location next to the Llangollen canal with beautiful mountain views, close to Llangollen. www.brynhowel.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Llangollen Canal horse drawn cruise sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£80

£38

UK & ireLand

eXCUrsions inCLUded inspiring Ullswater We journey via the shores of Ullswater, one of the most dramatic lakes in Cumbria, enjoying the spectacular views of mountains, plunging down to the lake, which inspired Wordsworth to compose his poem ‘Daﬀodils’. We continue via the spectacular Kirkstone Pass to Bowness, where we break for lunch. southern Lakeland We journey to the shores of Coniston, situated beneath the slopes of the ‘Old Man’. We continue to the pretty village of hawkshead for a lunch break. The Beatrix Potter Gallery, a 17th Century building, was once the oﬃce of the local solicitor William Heelis, who married Beatrix Potter in 1913 and has remained largely unaltered since his day. Windermere cruise We enjoy a morning steamer cruise on Windermere, the complete length of the lake from Lakeside in the south to Ambleside in the north. We enjoy a lunch break in Bowness. Later we visit the market town of Kendal.

BrYn hoWeL hoTeL, LLanGoLLen

BesT WesTern shaP WeLLs hoTeL, near shaP 3★

Traditional hotel in a secluded position on the edge of the Eastern Fells. There are expansive public areas with comfortable lounges. See red squirrels in the attractive grounds, which you can watch being fed on a daily basis! www.shapwells.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Windermere steamer cruise

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Sun 14 Oct

£479

£60

£38

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

PoPULar hoTeL £539

UK & ireLand

Sidmouth

eXCUrsions inCLUded

in the Autumn Ys 5 da

exe estuary cruise We travel to the delightful resort of exmouth. In the afternoon, we take a cruise in the calm waters of the exe estuary with an entertaining commentary. We pass Cockwood, Starcross and Powderham Castle, returning with marvellous views of Exmouth. exeter and historic Fursdon Historic exeter has a magniﬁcent cathedral, a ruined castle and one of the narrowest streets in the world! In the afternoon, we travel to Fursdon, one of Devon’s hidden gems, for a private guided tour and a cream tea. Fursdon is an elegant house with pleasant gardens; it is also one of Devon's oldest family homes - 23 generations of the family have lived on this site!

roYaL YorK and FaULKner hoTeL, sidMoUTh 3★

Splendid highly-rated hotel, with Regency charm and grandeur in a wonderful position at the centre of Sidmouth’s elegant Esplanade. The Royal York and Faulkner has been family-owned and run for over 60 years and oﬀers high standards of service. The public areas are spacious and there are spa facilities to enjoy. www.royalyorkhotel.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • River Exe cruise • Fursdon guided tour and cream tea

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Tue 16 Oct

£539

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£38

GreaT For sinGLes £479

UK & ireLand

Derbyshire

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Singles Break 5 daY

national Memorial arboretum and Calke abbey Morning visit to the national Memorial arboretum. This 150 acre site has 330 thought-provoking memorials covering both military and civilian associations. In the afternoon, we visit Calke abbey, the house where time stood still. As you wander through the mansion you will discover abandoned rooms, peeling wallpaper and a vast collection of strange and unique objects. Bolsover Castle Morning visit to Bolsover Castle, which has spectacular views over Derbyshire from the wall walk. This fairy-tale Stuart mansion was designed to entertain and impress. See lavish rooms of the Little Castle. Chatsworth and denby Chatsworth is one of the most glorious stately homes in England and a treasure trove of modern and historic artefacts. Wander around the three ﬂoors where you can see magniﬁcent displays of art, furniture, sculptures and paintings housed in ornately decorated rooms. In the afternoon, we visit denby Pottery Village.

haLLMarK MidLand hoTeL, derBY 4★

Elegant Grade II listed early Victorian hotel located near the station (it was the ﬁrst purpose-built railway hotel in the world). Twin and double rooms also available. www.hallmarkhotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Chatsworth

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Sun 21 Oct

£479

£0

£38

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

VerY PoPULar ToUr FroM £699

Sidmouth and South Devon 6 daYs

roYaL YorK and FaULKner hoTeL, sidMoUTh

eXCUrsions inCLUded Powderham Castle and exmouth Powderham is the historic family home of the Earl of Devon dating from 1390, set in a beautiful deer park on the banks of the River Exe. We enjoy a guided tour through the majestic rooms, with fascinating stories from the castles rich history. Later we travel to the pleasant resort of exmouth. horse boat cruise We visit the market town of Tiverton, which has a fascinating history. Later we enjoy a wonderful horse-drawn canal trip on the Grand Western Canal, with a delicious devon cream tea. delightful abbotsbury We travel along the south Devon Coast to abbotsbury subtropical Gardens. This magnificent collection of rare and exotic plants was established in 1765 by the Countess of Ilchester. Today the garden is a mixture of formal and informal displays. Later we pay a visit to the donkey sanctuary, which has cared for many suffering animals. day at leisure Described by John Betjeman as 'A town caught still in a timeless charm’, this pleasant traditional seaside resort which has been popular since Regency times. Beautiful gardens and leisurely walks, clean beaches and friendly shops…. it’s all here in this lovely seaside town that nestles beneath majestic red cliffs and the green hills of the glorious Sid Valley.

3★

Splendid highly-rated hotel, with Regency charm and grandeur in a wonderful position at the centre of Sidmouth’s elegant Esplanade. The Royal York and Faulkner has been family-owned and run for over 60 years and oﬀers high standards of service. The public areas are spacious and there are spa facilities to enjoy. www.royalyorkhotel.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 5 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Powderham Castle with guided tour • Horse-drawn canal cruise with cream tea • Admission to Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

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Wed 11 Jul

£699

£0

£38

Wed 5 Sep

£709

£0

£38

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

JoUrneY To The Far norTh £749

Great Highland Railways 6 daY

UK & ireLand

eXCUrsions inCLUded Far north Line We journey to the top of Scotland for a ride on the Far north Line. We travel by coach along the scenic coast road to the Georgian town of Thurso. The Far North Line (diesel) travels south across the wilderness of the moors before joining the Strath of Kildonan to the coast. The line then follows the coastline and at times almost runs along the shore. We end our journey at dingwall.

strathspey railway We travel to Aviemore for an afternoon steam train ride on the nostalgic strathspey railway. Passing over moorland and following the River Spey, this part of the original Highland Railway has the Grampian Mountains as a dramatic backdrop. Kyle Line We journey to Dingwall Station for a ride on the outstanding Kyle Line (diesel) to the Kyle of Lochalsh. Enjoy the beautiful scenery as the train passes through Glen Carron and later runs alongside Loch Carron. We cross the Skye Bridge to the isle of skye, for a late lunch break.

GreaT iTinerarY £625

3★

Lovely traditional hotel located in the market square in the small town of Beauly. www.priory-hotel.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 5 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Far North Line ride • Strathspey Railway ride • Kyle Line ride

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Sun 26 Aug

£749

£108

£38

UK & ireLand

Newcastle,

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Northumbria and the Alnwick Garden

Ys a d 6

PriorY hoTeL, BeaULY

The alnwick Garden Acclaimed as ‘the most magniﬁcent new public garden in England for 100 years’, The alnwick Garden was opened in October 2002 by its patron, HRH The Prince of Wales. See the Grand Cascade, Ornamental Garden and the Rose Garden. Tyne cruise We travel into central newcastle for a memorable three hour boat trip on the Tyne. The ‘Quay to Sea’ cruise takes you under the Millennium Bridge, which opens especially for us and enjoy the panorama of the Tyne Gorge, shipyards, Fish Quay and Tynemouth Castle and Priory. Snacks and drinks available on board.

Lindisfarne and Bamburgh We travel to the holy island of Lindisfarne, one of the foremost religious sites in the world, where Saint Aidan established a monastery in 635AD. We also visit Bamburgh which has an imposing castle and is also known for the exploits of Grace Darling. hexham and hadrian’s Wall Visit the attractive market town of hexham for a lunch break. In the afternoon, we explore nearby hadrian’s Wall. Begun in AD122 to stop raids from the Pictish tribes in the north, the wall was the edge of the Roman Empire. Today large sections still remain and we visit Chester’s (English Heritage, deParTUres PriCe admission extra), one of the best preserved forts, with a ﬁne collection of Roman ‘ﬁnds’. £625 Thu 30 Aug

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

MarrioTT GosForTh ParK hoTeL, neWCasTLe 4★

Highly-rated modern hotel located on the outskirts of Newcastle and close to the racecourse. There are extensive leisure facilities including an indoor pool to enjoy and a comfortable lounge. www.marriott.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 5 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to the Lindisfarne Centre • ‘Quay to Sea’ boat trip • Admission to The Alnwick Garden sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£125

£38

PiCTUresQUe WesT CoUnTrY £639

UK & ireLand Enchanting

Cornwall

Enchanting Cornwall

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Ys 6 da

Padstow and Tintagel We travel to Padstow. Once the ecclesiastical capital of Cornwall, Padstow has many medieval buildings and now is home to Rick Steins’ restaurants. In the afternoon, we journey to Tintagel, an enchanting place which will be forever associated with legends of King Arthur. Enjoy time to explore the village or the more energetic can walk to the magical castle (English Heritage, admission extra), which has a dramatic cliﬀ edge location. Truro and historic Charlestown We visit the cathedral city of Truro. Later we travel to Charlestown, near St Austell. This picturesque Grade II listed harbour doubled for Truro Harbour in ‘Poldark’. Dating from the late 18th century, there are usually historic vessels in port and there is a fascinating Shipwreck Centre. Fowey and st Mawes We travel along the south Cornwall coast to picture-postcard Fowey. Explore the picturesque winding streets with historic buildings and quaint shops. The harbour is attractive and there are boat trips on the estuary. Later visit the beautiful resort of st Mawes.

Traditional hotel in a splendid location opposite Fistral Beach, with ﬁne views over the Bay (seaview rooms on application and at a supplement). Leisure facilities and entertainment on two nights. There is a lift, but also a few steps. www.esplanadehotelnewquay.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 5 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout

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Sun 23 Sep

£639

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£38

Northern Ireland

Highlights

eXCUrsions inCLUded

of Northern Ireland s

antrim Coastline We visit the Giants Causeway (National Trust, admission extra), one of the great natural wonders of the world. The Causeway was formed 50-60 million years as a result of a volcanic eruption and consists of 40,000 columns of layered basalt that extend out to sea. We also visit the old Bushmills distillery, the world’s oldest whiskey distillery, having received a licence in 1608. Mount stewart Morning visit to Mount stewart (National Trust, admission extra), an impressive 18th century mansion with art treasures and inspirational gardens on the tranquil shores of Strangford Lough.

Belfast and Titanic exhibition Guided morning sightseeing tour of Belfast viewing all the major sites including Stormont, City Hall, Grand Opera House, Shankhill and Falls Roads, Wall Murals and Queens University. In the afternoon, we visit Titanic Belfast. Housed in an iconic building, this fascinating museum was opened in 2012, where visitors relive the entire Titanic story, from its birth in Belfast, to her ill-fated maiden voyage and the eventual discovery on the sea deParTUres PriCe bed. There are ten hugely deParTUres PriCe informative galleries to explore,30th at thisSep‘must-see’ exhibition. We use a local coach on this day. £799 Sun 9 Sep

3★

UK & ireLand Highlights of

TiTaniC ToUr £799

7 daY

esPLanade hoTeL, neWQUaY

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

BeLFasT LoUGhshore hoTeL, CarriCKFerGUs 3★

Friendly modern well-appointed hotel located in Carrickfergus, about 10 miles from Belfast. The hotel is located about half a mile from Carrickfergus Castle. www.loughshorehotel.com Also includes overnight stays at 3-star minimum hotels (TBA). What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 6 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Titanic Belfast • Admission to Bushmills sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£48

£38

sTUnninG sCenerY £775

UK & ireLand

Scotch on the Rocks 7 daYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded Mull and iona We travel to the resort of oban to catch the morning ferry to Mull. The second largest island of the Hebrides has unspoilt scenery of mighty mountains and white sand beaches. We travel to Fionnphort where we catch a ferry to the magical island of iona. Known as the ‘Cradle of Scottish Christianity’, as St Columba landed here in 563 and the Abbey is the resting place of 48 Scottish Kings. West highland Line and skye We travel to Fort William for a scenic ride on the West highland Line. Described as one of the great railway journeys of the world, this 42 mile trip takes you through some of the most spectacular scenery in Scotland. The train stops en route to Mallaig at Glenﬁnnan, where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745. We then take a ferry to the magniﬁcent isle of skye. A light lunch is included in Broadford, before we return via beautiful scenery, passing picturesque Eilean Donan Castle.

oniCh hoTeL, oniCh 3★

A delightful privately-run hotel set in a fantastic loch side location between Glencoe and Fort William. The public areas and gardens oﬀer stunning, panoramic views over Loch Linnhe to the Glencoe mountains in the east and Morvern and The Isle of Mull in the west. No lift. www.onich-fortwilliam.co.uk Also includes overnight stays at 3-star minimum hotels (TBA). What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 6 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • West Highland Railway ride • Light lunch

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Sun 27 May

£775

£120

£38

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

MeMoraBLe JaUnT £869

UK & ireLand

Bantry Bay, Garnish Island and the Ring of Beara 7 daYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded Bantry house and Gardens Bantry house was bought by the White family in 1730 and has a collection of tapestries, furniture and art treasures which were mainly collected by the second Earl during his travels through Europe in the 1800’s. The Gardens are home to sub-tropical plants and shrubs-reflecting the best in European design and style. Features within the grounds are the Italian Garden, the Hundred Steps and the largest Wisteria circle in Ireland. The exhibition centre in the east Stableyard explains the history of the attempted French invasion of 1796. Garnish island and ring of Beara We travel to Glengarriff Harbour to catch the small ferry, which passes a large seal colony, to Garnish island. The island is world renowned for its gardens which are laid out in beautiful walks and it has some stunning specimen plants. The island was bequeathed to the Irish people in 1953. We then travel via Leahill Bog and Trafrask Bog to adrigole on the evocative ‘ring of Beara’, which is less well-known than the ‘Ring of Kerry’, but also has beautiful scenery. Then we travel along the awe-inspiring Healy Pass to Eyeries. We break for a late lunch in Castletown Berehaven, before making our way back along the southern part of the peninsula. Enjoy spectacular scenery on this magnificent day out.

ross Castle, Lough Leane and Killarney We travel to Killarney where we are met by the famous Killarney Jaunting Cars. We will embark on a one hour tour of Killarney National Park that will culminate in our arrival at ross Castle. We will then embark on a one hour cruise of Lough Leane aboard The Lily of Killarney. We will see the monastic ruins of Inisfallen Island and the beautiful O’Sullivan’s Cascade whilst admiring the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Killarney countryside. We will return to Killarney for a traditional afternoon tea at the Brehon Hotel.

MariTiMe hoTeL, BanTrY 4★

Superbly located on the water’s edge, The Maritime Hotel enjoys uninterrupted sea views across Bantry Bay. This excellent modern hotel is highly-rated and has extensive leisure and spa facilities. www.themaritime.ie Also includes overnight stays at 3-star minimum hotels (TBA). What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 6 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Bantry House • Return boat trip to Garnish Island • Guided tour of Killarney National Park in a jaunting car • Lough Leane cruise • Afternoon tea at the Brehon Hotel

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Sun 3 Jun

£869

£140

£38

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

nordiC ConneCTions £1119

UK & ireLand

Shetland Island of the Vikings 7 daYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded Tour of the northern isles We enjoy a tour of the northern isles with a local guide. Photo stop at the vast sullom Voe oil Terminal. We make the short crossing to Yell, taking the east coast road towards Cullivoe with entry to the old haa Museum, full of unusual artefacts from the islanders. Take the short ferry to Unst, with a light lunch at the Baltasound Hotel included. See Muckle Flugga isle, the most northerly tip of the UK, for fantastic views and then it’s on to skidbladner to see a replica Viking long ship. Tour of the south and West mainland Guided coastal tour towards sumburgh head rsPB, stopping at st ninians Beach. Afterwards it’s oﬀ to Jarlshof archaeological site – one of Europe’s largest and most complex sites spanning over 5000 years up to the 1600s. Included is entry into the Croft House Museum. We enjoy a photo stop of shetland Ponies in the Tingwall Valley before arriving in scalloway, the former capital of the Shetlands, which has a 15th century castle. north Mainland tour Guided tour via Voe and Brae to the ‘drongs’ – a spectacular series of sea stacks. Entry to the Tangwick haa Museum and tour of shetland Jewellery Workshop, where gold and silver is crafted using Nordic themes. We return to Lerwick via Wormadale Viewpoint and shetland Museum. northlink Ferries This tour includes two overnight sailings with northlink Ferries from aberdeen to Lerwick and return. The ships are of a good standard with bars, restaurants, cinema and entertainment. Cabins are ensuite and dinner is served on board.

The sheTLand hoTeL, LerWiCK 3★

Spacious purpose-built hotel in a great location, overlooking the bay and a few minutes walk from the town centre. www.shetlandhotels.com Also includes overnight stays at 3-star minimum hotels (TBA) and two overnight ferry crossings. What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 6 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Guided tours (3 days) • Admissions Old Haa Museum, Croft House Museum, Scalloway Museum, Tangwick Haa Museum • Light lunch at Baltasound Hotel

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Tue 19 Jun

£1119

£194

£38

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

CoasTaL eXPLorer £699

UK & ireLand

Cornish Seascapes and Legends 7 daYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded Padstow and Trerice We travel to Padstow. Once the ecclesiastical capital of Cornwall, Padstow has many medieval buildings and now is home to Rick Steins’ restaurants. In the afternoon, we visit Trerice (National Trust, admission extra), an intimate Elizabethan manor and a Cornish gem. Nestled in a peaceful corner of rural Cornwall, this romantic house tells a story of prosperous origins, decline, partial ruin and 20th-century restoration. splendid st ives and st Michael’s Mount We visit the charming seaside resort of St Ives with its cobbled streets, winding between pretty fishermans' cottages. st ives is also known for its artistic connections. In the afternoon, we travel to Marazion, where the more energetic can visit stunning st Michael’s Mount (National Trust, admission extra). Alternatively, why not relax and soak up one of the finest views in the country. Fal river cruise and Falmouth We board a boat for a splendid scenic cruise along the river Fal from the cathedral city of Truro to the historic maritime town of Falmouth. Once a fishing port, Falmouth is now an attractive resort and among the attractions is the excellent National Maritime Museum, which opened in 2003. Truro and historic Charlestown We visit the cathedral city of Truro. Later we travel to Charlestown, near St Austell. This picturesque Grade II listed harbour doubled for Truro Harbour in ‘Poldark’. Dating from the late 18th century, there are usually historic vessels in port and there is a fascinating Shipwreck Centre.

roseMUndY hoUse hoTeL, sT aGnes 3★

Pleasant family-owned and run hotel in an elegant Queen Anne house, set in well maintained secluded gardens in unspoilt St Agnes. There are quiet lounge areas and the restaurant serves excellent food. There are two ﬂoors and whilst there is no lift, there are ground ﬂoor rooms (subject to availability). www.rosemundy.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 6 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • River Fal boat trip

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Sun 8 Jul

£699

£0

£38

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

heriTaGe isLand £889

UK & ireLand

Isle of Man 7 daYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded Peel and ‘royal’ ramsey We travel to Peel, the most ‘Manx’ town on the island, with attractive winding lanes. The magniﬁcent ruins of Peel Castle, located on St Patrick’s Isle, dominate the landscape. We visit the house of Manannan, which tells the story of this unique island. We continue to ‘Royal’ ramsey, the second largest town on the island set against the magniﬁcent backdrop of the North Barrule hills, with a bustling harbour and a Victorian swing bridge. Castletown and Cregneash Tour of the south of the island including Castletown, the old capital of the island. We visit Cregneash Village, the National Folk Museum, which shows what life was like in a 19th Century Manx crofting community. Laxey Wheel and snaefell Standing at over 72 feet high Laxey Wheel, which is also known as Lady Isabella, has been one of the Isle of Man’s most popular attractions for well over 150 years. Later we take a ride on the snaefell Mountain railway, to the highest point on the island with spectacular views.

The eMPress hoTeL, doUGLas 3★

Splendid traditional hotel located on the seafront in Douglas, overlooking Douglas Bay. There pleasant views from the conservatory. It’s a short walk to the town centre and Gaiety Theatre. Trams depart regularly from outside the hotel. Lift serves all ﬂoors, but there are some steps in the public areas. www.theempresshotel.net Also includes an overnight stay at the Copthorne Hotel, Manchester. What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 6 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to House of Manannan • Admission to Cregneash Village • Admission to Laxey Wheel • Snaefell Mountain Railway ride

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Sun 29 Jul

£889

£102

£38

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

CoLoUrFUL sCoTLand £735

UK & ireLand

Scotland’s Autumn Gold and the Enchanted Forest

7 daYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded Glamis Castle We visit splendid Glamis Castle, childhood home of the late Queen Mother. Visitors are guided through ten principal rooms of the Castle. Starting in the 19th Century Dining Room, the guides give a personal touch and set the scene. They will explain the link the present owner the 18th Earl of Strathmore has to the Royal family and tell the intriguing tales and stories of legend's and ghosts from the family's history. enchanted Forest We enjoy an early dinner before our coach takes us to the enchanted Forest. With dazzling visuals and innovative design set against an original music score, we will explore by foot the stunning autumn woodland setting of Forestry Commission Scotland's Faskally Wood. Using the forest as a natural backdrop, we will experience a lighting show that is, quite simply, out of this world.

Lochs and Whisky Galore We stop at nearby Loch Tummel, Queen Victoria’s favourite spot, in all its Autumn glory. We continue to Kenmore, where the shimmering waters of Loch Tay are surrounded by rustic woodlands and purple clad hillsides. We stop at Crieﬀ and enjoy a guided tour and tasting at Famous Grouse, the oldest distillery in the world.

Fishers hoTeL, PiTLoChrY 3★ STB

4 STB

This traditional hotel is located centrally in Pitlochry and has been under new management since 2011 and has largely been refurbished during recent years. There are plenty of lounges to relax and The Kingﬁsher Bar is locally renowned. www.ﬁshershotelpitlochry.com Also includes overnight stays at 3-star minimum hotels (TBA). What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 6 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Tour and tasting at Royal and Grouse • Admission to Glamis Castle • Admission to Enchanted Forest

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Sun 14 Oct

£735

£120

£38

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

reGaL esCaPe £869

UK & ireLand

Royal Scotland 8 daYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded Balmoral We travel to Royal Deeside. We visit Braemar, where the annual Highland Gathering takes place. We continue to Balmoral, summer retreat of Her Majesty the Queen. This Scottish Baronial mansion has ﬁne gardens and you can visit the impressive Ballroom. Please note that other rooms are not open to the public. Glamis Castle and Pitlochry We visit Pitlochry, which became popular in Victorian times, when Queen Victoria stayed at Blair Castle and was impressed with the wonderful scenery. Afternoon visit to splendid Glamis Castle, childhood home of the late Queen Mother. Visitors are guided through ten principal rooms of the Castle. Starting in the 19th Century Dining Room, the guides give a personal touch and set the scene. They will explain the link the present owner the 18th Earl of Strathmore has to the Royal family and tell the intriguing tales and stories of legend's and ghosts from the family's history. royal Yacht Britannia and edinburgh We travel to edinburgh, capital of Scotland. We visit the royal Yacht Britannia, at its mooring in historic Leith. The self-guided audio tour covers ﬁve decks of this great vessel. We see the state rooms that have welcomed visitors from Sir Winston Churchill to Nelson Mandela. Also see the engine room, an on-board garage and the Queen’s bedroom. Later we enjoy some free time in the city.

BesT WesTern QUeens hoTeL, PerTh 3★ AA

Comfortable traditional hotel in a central location, a short walk from the River Tay, with good leisure facilities. Perth is a pleasant town with many historical Royal connections. www.queensperth.co.uk Also includes overnight stays at 3-star minimum hotels (TBA). What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 7 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Balmoral • Admission to Glamis Castle • Admission to Royal Yacht Britannia

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Sat 19 May

£869

£60

£45

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

reLaX on The riViera £875

UK & ireLand

Torquay Holiday 8 daYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded discover dartmoor We explore dartmoor, an atmospheric National Park of tors and bogs, with wild ponies roaming free. We visit attractive Widdecombe-in-the-Moor of ‘Uncle Tom Cobley’ fame, which has a large church, known as the ‘Cathedral of the Moor’. Later we cross the moor via Moretonhampstead, Postbridge and Princetown. south devon steam and sail day We travel to Paignton for a steam train ride on the dart Valley railway through beautiful scenery to Kingswear. Later we enjoy a leisurely cruise on the river dart, passing Kingswear and Dartmouth Castles, the Royal Naval College and Greenway House, once owned by Agatha Christie. historic Plymouth and saltram house We travel to the historic port of Plymouth, forever associated with Sir Francis Drake and the Spanish Armada. In the afternoon, we visit saltram house (National Trust, admission extra), a magnificent George II mansion with Robert Adam interiors and its original contents, set in an attractive landscaped park. Brixham Morning visit to Brixham, which has a lively harbour and waterfront. Look out for a full size replica of Drake’s Golden Hind on the quay. Two days at leisure in Torquay Torquay is full of surprises with its magnificent horseshoeshaped bay, swaying palm trees, elegant Victorian villas, pretty marina, sweeping sandy beach and its fascinating agatha Christie connections. The Victorians coined the term English Riviera, by then well established as a fashionable holiday destination, and the very first promotional guide was launched over 100 years ago!

BesT WesTern LiVerMead CLiFF hoTeL, TorQUaY 3★

Beautifully situated at the water's edge, this long-established hotel, oﬀers friendly service and traditional hospitality. The splendid views can be enjoyed from the comfortable lounge, bar and dining room. You can even take refreshment on the delightful terrace. It’s a pleasant level walk to the town centre and marina. www.livermeadcliﬀ.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 7 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Dart Valley Railway ride • River Dart cruise

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Sun 17 Jun

£875

£105

£45

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

LoChs and MoUnTains £869

UK & ireLand

Scotland in the Summer

8 daYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded hopetoun house and edinburgh zoo hopetoun is Scotland’s considered Scotland’s finest stately home; a place of beauty, tranquility and architectural magnificence dating from the 17th century filled with stunning collections. Designed by William Bruce and then altered and extended by William Adam, Hopetoun House is one of the greatest examples of 18th century architecture in Britain. The wildest visitor attraction in Scotland, edinburgh zoo is home to over 1,000 rare and beautiful animals from around the world and home to the UK's only giant pandas and koalas. Loch Lomond and dunoon A lovely scenic drive. We visit beautiful Loch Lomond, breaking for coffee at Balloch. Later we drive alongside Loch Lomond and Loch Fyne, breaking for lunch in the pleasant resort of dunoon. We cross the Clyde to Gourock on our return.

Famous Grouse and Loch Katrine In the morning, we stop at Crieﬀ and enjoy a guided tour and tasting at Famous Grouse, the oldest distillery in the world. We continue via Killin, past picturesque Loch Tay and through The Trossachs to beautiful Loch Katrine for a one hour afternoon Victorian steamer cruise aboard the Sir Walter Scott. The author Scott set his ‘Lady of the Lake’ novel here. Lunch break is at Kilmahog Mill.

WesTerWood hoTeL, CUMBernaULd 4★

Set amid acres of glorious Scottish countryside overlooked by the Campsie Hills, this superb modern luxury fourstar hotel oﬀers a stunning location with luxurious leisure facilities - not to mention an 18-hole golf course designed by none other than Seve Ballesteros! www.qhotels.co.uk Also includes overnight stays at 3-star minimum hotels (TBA). What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 7 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Hopetoun House • Admission to Edinburgh Zoo • Admission to Famous Grouse • Loch Katrine cruise

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Sat 14 Jul

£869

£140

£45

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

BeaUTiFUL dorseT £769

UK & ireLand

Bournemouth Holiday 8 daYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded explore dorset We enjoy a tour of the lanes of Dorset. We travel via Wimborne Minster, passing the ancient Badbury Rings and Blandford Forum to shaftesbury for a coffee break. Shaftesbury is best known for Gold Hill, which was featured in Hovis adverts. We break for lunch in the attractive town of sherborne, which has an abundance of medieval buildings, two castles and a superb Abbey. Later we pass the Cerne Abbas ‘Giant’ and break for tea in dorchester. Purbeck Panorama We travel through the attractive countryside of the Isle of Purbeck, breaking for coffee in the historic riverside town of Wareham. We continue to the delightful old-fashioned resort of swanage for a lunch break. Later, we take a pleasant afternoon steam train ride through beautiful countryside on the swanage railway, to historic Corfe Castle. Poole harbour cruise We travel to the attractive resort of Poole. In the afternoon, we enjoy a cruise around beautiful Poole harbour, including Brownsea Island. explore the new Forest Originally a hunting forest for William the Conqueror, this delightful area is home to unusual flora and fauna including ponies that roam free. We visit the attractive town of Lyndhurst. Two days at leisure Bournemouth is one of the most popular seaside resorts in the country with six miles of sandy beaches, two piers and endless ideas for entertainment.

BesT WesTern hoTeL roYaLe, BoUrneMoUTh 3★

Located on the East Cliﬀ, just a short walk from the seafront and local shops and amenities, is this privately-owned hotel and is highly rated. Public areas are contemporary in style, and facilities include a small health club. www.thehotelroyale.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 7 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Swanage Railway ride • Poole Harbour cruise

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Sat 22 Sep

£769

£0

£45

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

FLoraL deLiGhTs FroM £509

Dutch Bulbfields and Keukenhof Ys 4 da

C o n T i n e n Ta L

4★

eXCUrsions inCLUded Keukenhof Gardens A leisurely day visiting the Keukenhof Gardens, the ‘Greatest Flower Show on Earth’, where millions of tulips, narcissi, hyacinths and daﬀodils form a blaze of colour. See seven distinct themes, from a narrow city garden to an enclosed Mediterranean garden. There are water features, pavilions and plenty of seating to admire the views! Volendam and amsterdam Originally a ﬁshing village on the shores of the Zuiderzee, delightful Volendam is a haven for artists. The harbour is bustling and some residents still wear traditional costume. Later we visit amsterdam. This lively city, criss-crossed with picturesque canals has over 1500 bridges! The medieval centre, with Dam Square at its heart, has attractive buildings and a wealth of cafes and restaurants. There’s plenty of time to take a boat trip and discover the historical canal district which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2011.

KinG oF WaLTz £629

shanGhai hoTeL, deLFT

Unique modern hotel on the outskirts of Delft featuring Chinese-style décor and an elegant bar. 13 April departure. www.shanghaihotelholland.com

CarLTon BeaCh hoTeL, sCheVeninGen 4★

Lovely beach front hotel with stunning views of the sea and golden sand dunes. 23 April departure. www.carltonbeachclub.nl What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Keukenhof Gardens

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Fri 13 Apr

£509

£86

£28

Mon 23 Apr

£529

£75

£28

C o n T i n e n Ta L

Andre Rieu

eXCUrsions inCLUded

in Cologne Ys a d 4

andre rieu in concert After an early dinner, we enjoy the highlight of this tour, a concert by the world-renowned artist andre rieu at the Lanxess arena. His concerts are an extravaganza of popular classical music. A Dutch violinist, conductor and showman, Rieu has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide. Together with his 50-pieces Johann Strauss Orchestra, he tours on ﬁve continents. Every year, more than 700,000 fans attend an André Rieu concert, establishing him as one of the top touring acts in the world. We have secured top priced seats for this unforgettable event.

discover Cologne We enjoy a morning city tour of Cologne with a local guide. Cologne has a long and illustrious history, which stretches back to Roman times. The cathedral is Germany’s most popular attraction. Hugely imposing, with twin steeples over 500ft tall, the gothic masterpiece can be seen from miles around. Your guide will explain about the construction, which took over 600 years to complete. Later we visit the Cologne Chocolate Museum with a guided tour, followed by a tasting at the deParTUres PriCe chocolate fountain! £629 Thu 26 Apr

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

noVoTeL KoLn CiTY, CoLoGne 3★

Modern hotel located close to the Rhine, in a central location. www.novotel.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Top priced seat for Andre Rieu at the Lanxess Arena • Guided tour • Admission to Chocolate Museum sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£106

£28

drinKs WiTh dinner £479

C o n T i n e n Ta L

Ostend

eXCUrsions inCLUded

and the Belgian Coast 4d

s aY

Belgian Coast We take a leisurely tour along the Belgian Coast, which is dotted with delightful seaside towns including picturesque De Haan and bustling Blankenberge. We break for lunch in Knokke-heist, the most glamorous of all Belgian seaside resorts with an abundance of designer shops and exclusive restaurants. ostend Belgium’s most popular seaside resort, ostend, has an individual charm, characteristic seafront, marinas, bustling markets and shops, great seafood restaurants, lively night life and casinos. dunkerque 1940 Museum On our return journey we break at the dunkerque 1940 Museum, which tells the story of Operation Dynamo.

osTend hoTeL, osTend 3★

Modern hotel located in the heart of the town within a short walk of the beach and shopping areas. Drinks included with dinner. www.hotelostend.be What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Dunkerque 1940 Museum

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Fri 29 Jun

£479

£42

£28

one MiLLion BeGonias £549

Brussels Carpet of Flowers Ys 4 da

C o n T i n e n Ta L

eXCUrsions inCLUded Brussels Carpet of Flowers and Mini-europe In the morning, we visit Mini-europe, discovering the sights of Europe in one amazing location. Hear the chimes of Big Ben, see gondolas in Venice and the Acropolis, amongst others! In the afternoon, we enjoy the ‘Carpet of Flowers’ in the Grand Place. Every two years the Belgians cover it with a huge ﬂower display – nearly one million fresh begonias. The famous Flower Carpet covers 19,000 square feet and is a stunning sight in the August sunshine. You can gain entrance to the Town Hall balcony (admission extra), so you can get an even better, panoramic view of this memorable sight.

Medieval Bruges We visit the beautiful medieval city of Bruges, with many ﬁne old buildings, often referred to as the ‘Venice of the North’. By the Burg main square, traditions are still alive with lace shops and market stalls, surrounded by picturesque medieval buildings with pretty gables. The more energetic can tackle the 370 steps of the 13th century Belfry of Bruges! Enjoy plenty of time for a canal trip or to visit the chocolate museum. deParTUres PriCe Wed 15 Aug

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

£549

MerCUre BrUsseLs CenTre Midi 4★

Smart modern four star hotel located about a mile from the Grand Place. There is a bar serving light meals and there are several cafes restaurants nearby (this break is bed and breakfast only). www.mercure.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 3 nights bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Mini-Europe sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£174

£28

sUPerB iTinerarY £579

C o n T i n e n Ta L

Normandy Explorer 5

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Ys a d

Monet’s Garden and rouen In 1890 Claude Monet moved into the unusual pink and green house and created the gardens he wished to paint. Monet lived in Giverny until his death in 1926 and produced many masterpieces in this tranquil and beautiful place. Afternoon brief visit to rouen, which has many fine buildings, including a magnificent Gothic cathedral. normandy Beaches and honfleur We travel along the normandy dday Beaches via Ouistreham and Courselles, breaking for lunch in arromanches, where you can still see the remains of Mulberry Harbour. We have included admission to Arromanches 360, which tells the story of D Day and the liberation of Normandy. Later we visit picturesque honfleur, which has artistic connections and a beautifully preserved old port.

Calvados We enjoy a morning visit to Calvados du Lieu Chéri. We see the production process of Calvados Pays d'Auge, pommeau, cider, perry, apple juice, apple liqueur, cider conﬁt, cider vinegar. We enjoy a one hour guided tour of the wine press, the cider cellars, the distillery deParTUres PriCe and the calvados wine cellars. £579 Mon 18 Jun

UnForGeTTaBLe eVenT £619

Rhine in Flames

The Grand hoTeL de L'esPeranCe, LisieUX 3★

Splendid traditional half-timbered property in the heart of Lisieux, close to the shops and about 10 minutes walk from the cathedral. www.lisieux-hotel.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Monet’s Garden • Admission to Arromanches 360 • Calvados tour and tasting sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£142

£38

C o n T i n e n Ta L

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Ys 5 da

rhine in Flames We board a boat to enjoy ‘rhine in Flames’. Spectacular pyrotechnics and curtains of fire bathe the riverbanks and landmarks in a magical red glow. This stunning firework festival takes place five times a year from May until September in the beautiful setting of the UNESCO listed Middle Rhine Valley. Enjoy a two course rustic dinner on board. A truly unforgettable and romantic experience. Boppard We visit Boppard, which is beautifully set on the banks of the River Rhine, with many fine old buildings and a pleasant riverside promenade to stroll along. Beautiful Moselle Valley Full day excursion along the picturesque Moselle river, which winds its way through vineyards and castles. We break for lunch in the attractive riverside town of Cochem. This attractive town is dominated by the Reichsburg, a ‘fairytale’ castle.

ParK hoTeL, rUdesheiM 3★

Lovely traditional hotel located in the centre of Rudesheim, overlooking the Rhine. There is a sun terrace – ideal for a pre-dinner drink. Rudesheim is a pretty riverside town and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Rhine Gorge. www.parkhotel-ruedesheim.de What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Rhine in Flames cruise with rustic dinner

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Thu 9 Aug

£619

£62

£38

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

PoPULar ToUr £665

C o n T i n e n Ta L

Romantic Rhine Valley and Boppard 6 daYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded rhine cruise Board a cruise boat through the rhine Valley to rudesheim, past myriad vineyards which cling to the steep sides and the towering Loreley Rock, where legend has it that a siren lured sailors to their doom. Rudesheim is a pretty riverside town and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Rhine Gorge. The Drosselgasse is the heart of Rüdesheim's old town, and this 15th century street, with richly decorated restaurants has live entertainment, brass band and dance music from late morning until midnight! Beautiful Moselle Valley Full day excursion along the picturesque Moselle river, which winds its way through vineyards and castles. We break for lunch in the attractive riverside town of Cochem. This attractive town is dominated by the Reichsburg, a ‘fairytale’ castle. historic Koblenz We travel to the attractive 2000 year old city of Koblenz at the conﬂuence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Koblenz is full of picturesque old buildings in romantic squares with markets, cafes and restaurants to discover.

BesT WesTern PreMier BeLLeVUe rheinhoTeL, BoPPard 4★

Superb traditional hotel beautifully situated overlooking the Rhine. Built in 1887, the family-run Best Western Bellevue Rheinhotel oﬀers elegant Art Nouveau décor and stands beside the River Rhine, directly opposite several ferry piers. Boppard’s pedestrian area is 100 metres from the hotel. www.bellevue-boppard.de What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 5 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Rhine cruise

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Sun 10 Jun

£665

£77

£38

Sun 16 Sep

£665

£77

£38

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

La BeLLe FranCe £939

C o n T i n e n Ta L

Beautiful Brittany 7 daYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded Pretty Quimper We travel to Quimper, considered the cultural heart of Brittany. The town lies on the River Odet, generally regarded as Brittany’s prettiest, crossed by little bridges. Quimper’s most impressive building is its cathedral, which is said to be the best example of Gothic religious architecture in Brittany. West of the cathedral is the atmospheric old town, where you’ll find many half-timbered houses dating from the 14th century. Beautiful Benodet and Pont aven A relaxing day touring the nearby coastal towns of Finistere, stopping at attractive Benodet, where the River Odet meets the sea. We also visit Pont aven, where Paul Gaugin painted many famous canvases. No visit would be complete without buying some galettes from Biscuiterie Traou Mad, where these butter biscuits were invented in 1920. Mont st Michel We break our outward journey at iconic Mont st Michel, a magical island topped by a gravity-defying medieval monastery. historic Vannes We visit the attractive walled town of Vannes on our return journey. Explore the well-preserved medieval streets. Concarneau Concarneau is a beautiful old stone fortified ‘town’ has narrow streets filled with shops and restaurants, where geraniums tumble from window boxes. The old town is within walking distance of the hotel or there is a tourist train. There is a deParTUres PriCe wonderful beach £939 Sat 19 May opposite the hotel.

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

hoTeL de L’oCean, ConCarneaU 3★

A charming family-run hotel overlooking the Bay of Concarneau, within walking distance of the old town. The restaurant has panoramic seaviews, with an emphasis on Breton cuisine. Please note that porterage is not available at this hotel. www.hotel-ocean.com Also includes stay at the following hotel (both ways):MerCUre hoTeL HHH What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 6 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout sinGLe sUPP

£188

insUranCe

£38

sPeCTaCULar sCenerY £1019

C o n T i n e n Ta L

Crystal Waters of Lake Maggiore 8 daYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded spectacular Lugano and Como Full day tour to Lakes Lugano and Como. We drive north towards the snow-capped peaks of the Alps and onwards to Lake Lugano. The palm and cypress lined promenade give Lugano a Mediterranean feel. We continue to dramatic Lake Como, surrounded by mountains and dotted with attractive lakeside villages and towns. We travel to Tremezzo, where we visit the beautiful gardens at Villa Carlotta. These formal gardens, which were laid out in the 19th century are beautiful, with pretty fountains and impressive sculptures. Centovalli train and Locarno We drive to the mountain town of Domodossola for a ride on the Centovalli train to Locarno. This scheduled train service travels through the wild and romantic ‘One Hundred Valleys’ region. The attractive Swiss lakeside town of Locarno has many ﬁne buildings including a 12th century castle and the pilgrimage church of Madonna del Sasso. The heart of the city is the Piazza Grande, well-known for its annual ﬁlm festival. Borromean island cruise We take a cruise ferry around the beautiful Borromean islands. The ferry stops at the beautiful islands of isola Bella, Pescatori (lunch break) and isola Madre. The island house some delightful gardens and Isola Bella boasts a palatial residence you can visit (admission extra). Lake orta This unspoilt area comes complete with towering peaks, lush forests, sparkling waters and historic towns. orta san Giulio is well worth some exploration with its narrow, cobbled streets, cafés, restaurants and views across the lake to the neighbouring island. Return to Stresa via Borgomanero.

hoTeL asToria, sTresa 4★

Superb traditional hotel in an excellent location, directly on the promenade and just a few minutes' stroll from the lovely centre of Stresa. www.hotelbruno.at Also includes overnight stays at Mercure Hotel Forbach Centre (both ways) www.hotelastoriastresa.it What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 7 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Villa Carlotta • Centovalli train ride • Borromean Islands cruise

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Fri 4 May

£1019

£187

£45

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

aLPine adVenTUre £1039

C o n T i n e n Ta L

Chamonix, Lake Geneva and the French Alps 8 daYs

hoTeL dU Bois, Les hoUChes

eXCUrsions inCLUded Chamonix We visit nearby Chamonix. This chic mountain resort is fabulous, and we have included a ride on the glacier railway. This famous rack and pinion railway will transport us to the Montenvers site, nearly 2,000 metres above sea level. The imposing panorama of the Mer de Glace glacier provides us with the most beautiful photo opportunity! Montreux, Lake Geneva and Chillon Castle We travel to the Swiss town of Montreux, made famous by its yearly jazz festival and its former famous resident, Freddie Mercury. Overlooking Lake Geneva, this chic resort is ours to discover this morning before we board an elegant paddle steamer for a short lake trip to Chillon Castle, an unmissable ancient fort neatly positioned between the lakeshore and the mountains. annecy This morning, we will make our way to annecy. Fortresses, churches, ancient bridges, medieval arches, cobblestone streets, quaint canals, pretty shops and restaurants all converge to create a dreamy, romantic little town often called ‘the Venice of the Alps’.

deParTUres

PriCe

Sat 21 Jul

£1039

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

3★

This charming alpine style hotel is located in the centre of the small but beautiful resort of Les Houches, 7km from Chamonix. There is a sun terrace, as well as outdoor and indoor swimming pools. www.hotel-du-bois.com Also includes stay at the following hotel (both ways):NOVOTEL METZ HAUCONCOURT HHH What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 7 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Glacier railway ride • Lake Geneva cruise • Admission to Chillon Castle sinGLe sUPP

£54

insUranCe

£45

see WhaT's inCLUded £1225

C o n T i n e n Ta L

Austrian Tyrol Discoverer 10 daYs

hoTeL BrUno, FUGen 3★

eXCUrsions inCLUded imperial innsbruck We visit innsbruck, which has hosted the Winter Olympics on two occasions, with a guided tour of the sights including the Golden Arch and Triumphal Arch. We visit the imperial Palace, the former residence of the Habsburg Family. Innsbruck is surrounded by mountains and we enjoy a funicular ride to seegrube. Lunch in Innsbruck included. spectacular Krimml Waterfalls and oberndorf We visit the Mullnerhof in oberndorf, with a farm visit followed by a schnapps tasting and a sample of homemade ham. We continue to the spectacular Krimml Waterfalls (some walking). We also enjoy a 30-minute ride on the Pinzgau Bahn steam railway. Lunch in Oberndorf included. Tratzberg Castle, schwaz and rattenburg We travel to Tratzberg Castle, followed by a short guided tour of the city of schwaz, the historic centre of the Tyrol. Lunch in Stans included. stams and horse-drawn carriage ride We travel to stams, with a visit to the Cistercian Abbey, which dates from the 13th century. Later we enjoy a memorable horse-drawn carriage ride through wonderful scenery near axams, with musical accompaniment and schnapps! Lunch in Stams included. achensee boat trip A wonderful day exploring achensee. We enjoy a splendid scenic boat trip on Achensee, the largest lake in the Tyrol, surrounded by mountains. We travel from Achenkirk to Pertisau. Lunch at Achensee included. swarovski Crystal and Bergisel ski jump We visit swarovski Crystal World in Wattens. This indoor crystal-themed exhibition is impressive and enchanting. Later we travel back into Innsbruck for a visit to the Bergisel ski-jump station. A funicular and the tower elevator takes you to the top of this impressive building, where there is a restaurant with breathtaking panoramic views over the city and mountains. deParTUres PriCe Lunch in Innsbruck included. Sat 25 Aug

£1225

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

Traditional hotel located about 10 minutes’ walk from the village centre in Fugen, in the Ziller Valley. Family-run by the Erlebach family, the hotel is wellappointed and oﬀers a warm welcome. There are a number of themed nights to enjoy, including a Tyrolean evening. www.hotelbruno.at Also includes overnight stays at 3-star minimum hotels (TBA) What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 9 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Lunch on 6 days • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Guided tours of Innsbruck and Schwaz • Admissions to Innsbruck Hofburg, Krimml Waterfalls, Tratzberg Castle, Schwaz Franciscan Church, Stams Abbey, Swarovski Crystal and Bergisel ski-jump station • Funicular ride to Seegrube • Horse carriage ride with schnapps and music • Achensee boat trip • Achenseebahn railway ride sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£132

£45

WorTh sinGinG aBoUT £1045

C o n T i n e n Ta L

Austria and the Sound of Music Delight 9 daYs

oVerniGhT hoTeL: aChaT PLaza hoTeL, KarLsrUhe HHHH The new and exclusive hotel is located in the heart of Karlsruhe, the second largest city in Baden-Wuerttemberg. With modern and fully air-conditioned rooms, comfortable interiors and technical equipment of the highest quality. The hotel has a lift.

eXCUrsions inCLUded This popular tour includes a return journey on the famous Schafberg Mountain Railway, a guided tour of stunning St Wolfgang, the elegant city of Salzburg and the summer residence of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy, Kaiservilla. You’ll be amazed at the spectacular scenery of this Alpine lake region with its picturesque valleys, rolling hills, steep mountains and mountain songs! After an early start, we travel to Dover for an afternoon crossing. We continue our journey in Europe to our overnight hotel in time for a three-course dinner. Following a good night’s rest, we head on through Germany and into Austria where we check into our hotel for the next six nights. st Wolfgang Today, we will explore St Wolfgang. A key member of the hotel team takes us on a short guided walk before escorting us to the station for our return journey on the steepest cog train in Austria, the schafberg Mountain railway operating since 1893. In 40 minutes, the steam cog railway travels just over 3½ miles but climbs 1,783 metres! On a clear day, we will be treated to a 360 degree panoramic view of sparkling lakes from Lake Wolfgangsee to Lake Chiemsee in Germany, with soaring mountains majestically framing the jaw-dropping vision before us! salzburg Our journey today takes us to the home of the ‘sound of Music’ and regional capital, salzburg. The old town is a maze of charming pedestrian alleyways with many famous and historic landmarks. To enable us to get our bearings we enjoy a 2 hour guided walking tour after which we can explore the city at our leisure. Bad ischl and hallstatt Today we will visit the delightful spa town of Bad ischl where the Emperors of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy spent their summers. We will begin by exploring the Kaiservilla with a guided tour. We will then have additional time to explore before visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of hallstatt. We will take the cable car up to the summit to experience the amazing views of the surrounding area. Lake district scenic drive We take a scenic drive around the salzkammergut, known as the Austrian Lake District. We journey first via ebensee and along the impressive fjord-like Lake Traunsee to Gmunden. We then continue on towards the Mondsee, one of the most unspoilt lakes in the region where we will stop to see one of the most well-known filming locations for the ‘Sound of Music’. We then make our way to the traffic-free village of st. Gilgen, connected to Mozart’s family, and the village which provided inspiration for much of his work, before making our way back to st Wolfgang. This is a shared departure with Gardiners nMC (north east). Please see page 3.

deParTUres

PriCe

22nd May 2018

£1045

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

resorT hoTeL: hoTeL FörsTerhoF, sT WoLFGanG HHHH This traditional hotel is elegantly decorated and located close to the shores of Lake Wolfgang, only a short walk from the heart of the village. The hotel also boasts its own private beach, which is only a two minute walk. Each of the spacious bedrooms are comfortably furnished in a traditional Austrian style with TV, hairdryer and, in some cases, a balcony or terrace. The hotel oﬀers large public areas including two dining areas and a pleasant bar, along with a sauna and relaxation area in which to unwind. The hotel has a lift. What’s included • Luxury coach travel • 2 crew onboard • Return short sea crossing • 8 nights dinner, bed and breakfast (2 x overnight hotel) • Walking tour of St Wolfgang • Return journey on Schafberg Mountain Railway and Halstatt Cable Car • Guided tour of Salzburg and Kaiservilla sinGLe sUPP

£100

insUranCe

£45

sPeCTaCULar £1025

C o n T i n e n Ta L

The Beautiful Dordogne and Medieval France 8 daYs

oVerniGhT hoTeL: Good standard hotel similar to Ibis and Novotel, all rooms will be equipped with en-suite facilities, TV, telephone. The hotel will have a lift of ground ﬂoor rooms. (hospitality trays may not be available).

eXCUrsions inCLUded Following an early start we head to Dover in time to catch our lunchtime crossing to France, we then continue to our overnight hotel. After breakfast we continue our journey through France, arriving at the Dordogne this afternoon. Over the next four days we have included three fantastic excursions and a free day in your resort. Le Bugue Enjoy a day at leisure in the resort, you could take a dip in the pool, sip a drink on the terrace, take a stroll along the river or a walk in to Le Bugue. The dordogne Valley We pay a visit to Chateau des Milandes, once owned by the entertainer Josephine Baker, the Chateau has been extensively restored to the 1930’s style in which she decorated it. Enjoy the gardens and birds of prey show before we end our day perfectly by visiting Grotto de Lascaux. Famous for its painting dating back thousands of years, including now extinct animals and geometric puzzles. A true gem, not to be missed. sarlat-la-Canade Explore nearby sarlat-la-Canade, one of the most alluring and attractive towns in this region, browse the winding streets and enjoy the traditional morning market. rocamadour This morning we visit the picturesque town of rocamadour, built into the cliﬀs in stages, rising from the River Alzou and crowned by the Sanctuary of the Virgin Mary. This afternoon enjoy a guided tour by boat of the Le Gouﬀre de Padirac, an awe inspiring cave system, formed over thousands of years. Pass through the rippling pools, haunting caverns, dramatic limestone formations and waterfalls. The largest cavern, the Salle du Grand Dome, is a spectacle you will never forget. We leave our resort hotel mid- morning and make our way back through France to our overnight hotel. This morning we return to Calais and sail back to the UK, arriving home late evening. This is a shared departure with Gardiners nMC (north east). Please see page 3.

deParTUres

PriCe

9th September 2018 £1025

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

hoTeL roYaL Vezere, Le BUGUe HHH Overlooking the Vézère river, this refined seasonal hotel is a 12-minute walk from Le Bournat (a 19th-century village theme park) and a short drive to the Gouffre de Proumeyssac cave. The hotel has a restaurant serving local produce along with a riverside terrace, bar and rooftop pool. The modern style bedrooms are all equipped with bathroom (bath or shower), private toilet, desk, minibar, television, phone, hairdryer and free Wi-Fi. The hotel has a lift. What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 2 crew onboard the coach • Short sea crossing • No overnight travel abroad • 2 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at overnight hotels • 5 nights dinner, bed and breakfast in resort • Visits to Sarlat-la-Canade and Rocamadour • Excursion to Le Gouffre de Padirac Caves with guided tour and boat ride • Visit to Chateau des Milandes • Visit to Grotto de Lascaux sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£195

£45

FUn in The sUn £739

C o n T i n e n Ta L

Santa Susanna and the best of the Costa’s Coastline 10 daYs

oVerniGhT hoTeL Good standard hotel similar to Ibis and Novotel, all rooms will be equipped with en-suite facilities, TV, telephone. The hotel will have a lift of ground ﬂoor rooms. (hospitality trays may not be available).

eXCUrsions inCLUded Following an early start we travel to dover for an early afternoon channel crossing. We continue to the greater Paris area for our overnight hotel and check in for a three course dinner. Following a good night’s rest we head south to our chosen resort of santa susanna, on arrival we check in for the next seven nights. During the next seven days you can take advantage of the two excursions or relax in the hotel and enjoy its impressive facilities which include 2 outdoor swimming pools and fantastic spa facilities, alternatively take to the sandy beach with its stunning blue waters or take a stroll along the prom and browse the local shops. Costa Coastal This morning we head along the coast ﬁrst calling at Blanes, a popular destination with the locals. Monday morning is market day where you can explore the 200 stalls, take a ride on the funicular or admire the beauty of the surrounding views. Our next port of call in the quaint town of Tossa de Mar, take a walk down the narrow lanes with the local shops, stroll along the stunning sea front and admire the whole beauty of the resort. Barcelona Spend a day in the Catalonian capital Barcelona. Our sightseeing tour takes in some of the famous tourist attractions many designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi, such as The Sagrade Familia and the ‘Dragon House’. We will also visit Montjuic to see the Olympic Village before some free time on Las Ramblas, Barcelona's beating pulse. Our hotel’s location is near to the coast rail network should you wish to venture oﬀ and explore the Costa Brava and Dorada by train. Popular destinations include Figueras, Girona, L’Estartit, Callela and Salou all easily accessible. On the morning of departure we make our way back to the greater Paris area and our overnight hotel. After breakfast we continue our journey home arriving back in to the north east late evening. This is a shared departure with Gardiners nMC (north east). Please see page 3.

deParTUres

PriCe

24th June 2018

£739

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

FLorida ParK hoTeL, sanTa sUsanna HHHH The hotel is set around a large outdoor swimming pool, just a few minutes’ walk from the beach. Santa Susanna’s resort centre, where there is a selection of cafes, bars and restaurants, just five minutes’ walk away. The hotel is completely air conditioned and offers a restaurant serving buffet evening meals with an abundance of hot and cold options each day. There are bars on site and the hotel offers live entertainment most evenings. The indoor wellness centre gives you the opportunity to enjoy a wet and dry sauna, Jacuzzi and indoor pool. All of the en-suite rooms boast air-conditioning, hairdryer, safe and satellite TV. The hotel has a lift. What’s included • Luxury coach travel • 2 crew onboard the coach • Short sea crossing • No overnight travel abroad • 2 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at overnight hotels • 7 nights dinner, bed and breakfast in resort sinGLe sUPP

£229

insUranCe

£45

aMazinG £869

C o n T i n e n Ta L

Stunning Lake Garda, Venice and the delights of Italy 9 daYs

oVerniGhT hoTeLs Our overnight hotels will be minimum three stars standard such as Novotel, Mercure, Ibis or similar. The hotel will have a restaurant and bar. All rooms will offer en-suite facilities and TV. The hotel will offer a lift or ground floor rooms.

eXCUrsions inCLUded Following an early start, we head to Dover in time to catch our lunchtime crossing to France, we then continue to our overnight hotel in the Metz area. After breakfast we continue our journey through France and Germany, arriving at Lake Garda this evening. Over the next four days we have included three fantastic excursions and two free days in your resort. Lakeside tour Spend a day touring the beautiful lakeside of Garda, take in some of the most charming towns and scenery including the pretty town of Malcesine with its stunning castle and Garda Town itself, a picturesque old town with an abundance of lakeside restaurants, cafes and shops. Venice Today you have the opportunity to visit Venice. Accompanied by your Gardiners NMC representative we head to the southern edge of the Lake and join a train to the city of romance! Venice has remained unchanged for hundreds of years it is built in the middle of a lagoon and oﬀers a myriad of twisting streets to explore! Verona Our half-day excursion takes in Verona, famous for the romeo and Juliet balcony! Bordered on three sides by the River Adige, Verona’s streets, houses, churches and piazzas combine to tell the fascinating story of this small northern Italian city. It is also famed for its summer opera season. This morning we depart Lake Garda and retrace our steps back to the Metz area in France and our overnight hotel. After a buﬀet breakfast we continue our journey to Calais, across the Channel to Dover and on towards home. This is a shared departure with Gardiners nMC (north east). Please see page 3.

CLUB hoTeL La VeLa, TorBoLe HHHH Ideally located in Torbole the Club Hotel La Vela enjoys many features including bar, restaurant and their most precious jewel is the large outdoor pool that literally ﬁlls the entire space in front of the hotel. The rooms are bright and clear, decorated in a style simple and fresh, with private bathrooms, air conditioning, satellite television, safe, minibar and the majority with balcony. Furnished with simplicity but with a style warm and comfortable. The hotel has a lift. What’s included • Luxury coach travel • 2 crew on board the coach • Short sea crossing • No overnight travel abroad • 2 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at overnight hotel • 6 nights dinner, bed and breakfast in resort • Excursions to Verona and Venice • Lake Garda lakeside tour • Free time in resort

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

11th July 2018

£869

£189

£45

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

TreMendoUs VaLUe £949

C o n T i n e n Ta L

Lakes, Mountains and Little Trains of Austria 9 daYs

oVerniGhT hoTeL: Good standard hotel similar to Ibis and Novotel, all rooms will be equipped with en-suite facilities, TV, telephone. The hotel will have a lift or ground ﬂoor room

eXCUrsions inCLUded After an early start, we travel to Dover for an early afternoon crossing. We continue our journey in Europe to our overnight hotel in time for a three-course dinner. Following a good night’s rest, we head on through Germany and into Austria where we check into our hotel for the next six nights. We have included four day excursions and a free day to explore our resort of Landeck, a popular shopping area and the landmark for the town is Schloss Landeck or Landeck Castle, dating back to the early 13th Century. innsbruck and hall Experience the Tyrolean capital of innsbruck, twice host city to the Winter Olympic Games. Explore the highlights of this charming Alpine city, including the most famous landmark of all, the ‘Golden Roof’. We will also visit hall in Tirol, a medieval city close to Innsbruck, home to the original Imperial Mint. The former capital of the salt mining industry, Hall has a lovely medieval town centre and the famous Burg Hasseg Castle. stranz, Lech and st. anton Our excursion today begins at stranz, the award-winning village boasts over 100 distillers. This afternoon we take a scenic drive over the stunning Arlberg Pass and visit the pretty village of Lech and stylish st. anton. swarovski Crystal World and the achensee railway Today we call at Wattens for a visit and tour of the world-famous swarovski Crystal World. From here we continue onto Jenbach where we board the narrow-gauge railway to seespitz and head to achensee. Here we take a cruise on the largest and most beautiful of the Tirolean lakes. ziller Valley steam Train and Mayrhofen We travel to Fugen this morning and join the historic ziller Valley steam Train, a nostalgic journey through magniﬁcent scenery to Mayrhofen whilst enjoying some live music and a glass of local schnapps en-route! The zillertal is one of Austria’s most famous narrow-gauge railways and has been in operation since 1902. On arrival in Mayrhofen you will have some free time to enjoy the lively atmosphere of this famous resort. We depart our resort on day 8 and make our way back through Germany and France to our overnight hotel, dinner will be served on arrival. After a good night’s rest, we carry on back to the UK, arriving home late evening. This is a shared departure with Gardiners nMC (north east). Please see page 3. deParTUres

PriCe

29th July 2018

£949

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

sonne hoTeL, LandeCK HHH The Sonne Hotel is situated just 500 m from the centre of Landeck. The hotel facilities include reception, restaurant, day bar, fully automated skittle alley, 2 alleys with cellar bar and sun terrace. The hotel also boasts leisure facilities including a sauna area with Finnish sauna. All rooms are equipped with ensuite bathrooms, radio, cable TV and telephone. *All inclusive in resort includes; Welcome drink on arrival, Extended buffet breakfasts/lunch, 4 Course dinner followed by tea/coffee, Unlimited soft drinks all day, Unlimited beer and wine 5pm-11pm, One 9 pin bowling evening with prizes, One evening dancing entertainment, One Tyrolean farmers buffet dinner, Farewell candlelit dinner What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • Short sea crossings • 2 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at overnight hotels • 6 nights All Inclusive in resort (see list below) • Visits to Innsbruck, Hall, Stranz, St Anton, Lech and Mayrhofen • Journeys on the Achensee and Ziller Valley Steam Railways • Cruise on Lake Achensee • Entrance in to Swarovski World sinGLe sUPP

£65

insUranCe

£45

drinKs inCLUded For £1089

WiTh Free Bar

C o n T i n e n Ta L

Italy’s Beautiful Lake Como and a Swiss Highlight 8 daYs

eXCUrsions inCLUded Wordsworth described Lake Como as ‘a treasure which the earth keeps to itself’. It is not simply the natural beauty of the mountain framed waters of Como that is so attractive; it is the sophisticated ambience of the towns and villages that hug its shores… and its proximity to Lake Lugano that makes it a fabulous touring base. No wonder Mr and Mrs George Clooney choose to live here! After an early start we travel to Dover for an early afternoon crossing. We continue our journey in Europe to our overnight hotel in time for a three course dinner. Following a good night’s rest, we head on through France and Switzerland to Italy where we check into our hotel for the next five nights. Villa Balbianello and Bellagio This morning, we will visit Villa Balbianello in Tremezzino with its amazing history and stunning location jutting out into the lake. You may choose to take a water bus from the jetty to the village of Lenno. Cadenabbia Enjoy a day at leisure to relax in our stunning resort or talk a walk in to Cadenabbia with all the perks that come with walking…sightseeing, stopping for gelatos and coffees, shopping and people watching! You may like to visit the first Anglican church in Italy (Church of the Ascension), built in the 1800s and located close to the ferry that goes to Bellagio or the little, white, 16th century San Martino church requiring a more rigorous walk is worth a visit. Lugano, switzerland Today, we will cross the Swiss border (remembering to bring our passports!) and visit the stylish city of Lugano situated on the shores of lake Lugano with its grand promenade, chic shops and cafés and amazing yachts. Como and Villa Carlotta This morning we make our way to the elegant and bustling town of Como, grand villas, palazzi, and churches show the city's splendour, while intriguing lanes and colourful piazzas show off its charm. Market day is held each Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, the market stretches along the old city wall and near the "Torre" tower. Como is a lovely walking city and if you tire of the market you can head to the nearby lakefront park to sit and enjoy an ice cream. After lunch, we make out way to the magnificent neo classical Villa Carlotta and Gardens, dating back to 1690 and covering over 70,000 square meters take time to soak in and admire the beautiful art collections and splendid botanical gardens. With lifts to different levels you can take deParTUres PriCe in the breathtaking views. This is a shared departure with Gardiners nMC (north east). 22nd August 2018 £1089 Please see page 3.

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

hoTeL BriTannia eXCeLsior, CadenaBBia HHH Hotel Britannia Excelsior is located on the shore of Lake Como, within a former 19th century inn. The beautiful guest rooms are decorated with luxurious fabrics and ﬁne antique furniture. Only 51 meters from the pier of Cadenabbia, the Britannia Excelsior oﬀers a beautiful view of Bellagio and the centre of Griante is located a short 10 minute walk away. Guestrooms are equipped with satellite TV and private bathrooms with a shower and hairdryer. The hotel has a lift and also free Wi-Fi in the hotel lobby. What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • Return short sea crossing • 2 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at overnight hotels • 5 nights dinner, bed and breakfast in resort • 2 crew on-board the coach • Porterage • Free bar from 10.00 to 23.45 hrs each day (Local beers, wines and spirits) sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

£148

£45

BeaUTY aLL aroUnd £939

C o n T i n e n Ta L

Harz Mountains Historical Trains and Fairytales in Germany 8 daYs

oVerniGhT hoTeL: h+ hoTeL KoLn BrUhL HHHH Great comfort and location for our overnight, the H+ Hotel Köln Brühl (former Ramada Hotel Brühl-Cologne) offers comfortable rooms and a spa area offer rest and relaxation. The breakfast buffet, the hotel’s restaurant and bar ensure you are well catered for during your stay. The hotel has a lift.

eXCUrsions inCLUded After an early start, we travel to Dover for an afternoon crossing. We continue our journey in Europe to our overnight hotel in time for a three-course dinner. Following a good night’s rest, we head on through Germany to Wernigerode where we check into our hotel for the next five nights. imperial Goslar With its thousand-year history, Goslar is one of the many renovated and preserved beautiful old towns in the region with a picture postcard view at almost every turn. The town itself has been strongly influenced by mining, experience an exceptional collection of industrial monuments and cultural heritage. These include the Emperor’s Palace, Town Hall and the Rammelsberg mine itself. The town also boasts a wonderful pedestrianised shopping area and excellent market square. Wernigerode and the harz narrow Gauge railway Wernigerode is a beautiful medieval city with many restored half-timbered houses, including the ‘smallest house’ and the ‘crooked house’. Here, you can also see the impressive castle perched over the city. Also, today we have included a return journey onboard the harz narrow Gauge railway which takes you to the highest mountain of the Harz, the Brocken. hanover and Castles There is scarcely any other city that can be as diverse and attractive as hanover. Stroll through the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen or along the promenade of Maschsee Lake. In the old town quarter, wander through narrow, medieval streets or through its extensive and modern pedestrian zone with its elegant arcades and shopping malls. We then continue to nearby Marienburg Castle for a guided visit. This fortress-like castle was built as a birthday present from the King of Hanover to his wife, Queen Marie. Why not enjoy a coffee and cake stop in the courtyard? 'Pied Piper', hamelin and Fairytales The historical and enchanting old town of hamelin has medieval houses and traffic-free streets. Local attractions include the Minster of St. Boniface and Bungelosenstrasse, which features the story of the Pied Piper, immortalised by the Brothers Grimm This is a shared departure with Gardiners nMC (north east). Please see page 3. deParTUres

PriCe

22nd September 2018 £939

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

resorT hoTeL: hKK hoTeL WerniGerode HHHH Excellent stylish hotel located in the middle of the Harz national Park, around 35 km from Goslar and only 100 meters from the historical city of Wernigerode’s Old Town. The hotel is surrounded by the beautiful Harz mountains. The modern en-suite rooms enjoy TV, hairdryer and toiletries. The hotel has a lift. What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 2 crew onboard coach • Short sea crossings • 2 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at overnight hotels • 5 nights dinner, bed and breakfast in resort • Visits to Goslar, Wernigerode, Hannover and Hamelin • Journeys on the Harz Narrow Gauge Railway • Entrance and guided tour of Marienburg Castle sinGLe sUPP

£110

insUranCe

£45

sTUnninG £899

C o n T i n e n Ta L

The Cote D’Azur French and Italian Riviera’s 10 daYs

oVerniGhT hoTeL Good standard hotel similar to Ibis and Novotel, all rooms will be equipped with en-suite facilities, TV, telephone. The hotel will have a lift or ground ﬂoor rooms.

eXCUrsions inCLUded Our European holidays depart early morning and travel to Dover ready for an early afternoon sailing to France, we then continue on to your overnight hotel in time for dinner. The following morning after a good nights rest we continue to our destination and resort hotel. Enjoy two free days in resort to relax and four interesting and exciting excursions. san remo and dolceacqua This morning we visit san remo, a town of art, culture and ﬂowers and today (Tuesday) is market day. Later today we head to dolceacqua, a charming village with quaint narrow streets and a stunning castle. Cannes Today’s excursion takes us along the Cote d’azur to Cannes, synonymous with glamour thanks to its worldfamous ﬁlm festival. Its Boulevard de la Croisette, curving along the coast, is lined with sandy beaches, upmarket boutiques and palatial hotels. It’s also home to the Palais des Festivals, a modern building complete with red carpet and Allée des Stars – Cannes’ walk of fame. nice Our next visit is to nice the capital of the French Rivieria, founded by the Greeks and later a retreat for 19thcentury Europe’s elite, the city today balances old-world decadence with modern urban energy. Stroll on the famous Promenade des Anglais or meander through the narrow streets of the old town. Monaco and Monte Carlo A real treat today as we visit Monaco and Monte Carlo, a wonderful day out where we travel along some of the Monaco Grand Prix roads. Explore Monaco taking in such sights as Opera de Monte Carlo, Monte Carlo Casino and the stunning Prince’s Palace of Monaco. Take a stroll around the bay or join the local funicular along to Monte Carlo and discover the ‘Playground to the Stars’ and how the other half live! We depart the hotel on day 9 and retrace our steps north to our overnight hotel arriving in time for dinner, next day we continue our journey to Calais ready for a return crossing back to the UK and homeward bound. This is a shared departure with Gardiners nMC (north east). Please see page 3.

BeLLeVUe eT MediTerranee, diano Marina HHHH This friendly family run hotel is situated on the private beach front at Diano Marina. This traditional hotel has a swimming pool, pool bar, indoor spa pool and restaurant. The en-suite rooms are air-conditioned and have a fridge and TV. The hotel has a lift. What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • Return ferry crossing • 7 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • 2 overnight hotels on a dinner, bed and breakfast • Excursions to Nice, Cannes, Monaco and Monte Carlo, San Remo and Dolceacqua • Free time in Diano Marina

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

2nd October 2018

£899

£189

£45

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

sTUnninG shoW £315

FesTiVe

Thursford

eXCUrsions inCLUded Thursford Christmas spectacular We enjoy lunch at the hotel. Later, we journey into the centre of norwich, where there is time to look around the cathedral, castle or huge covered market for some Christmas shopping. We continue to Thursford, in plenty of time to look around the magniﬁcent steam engines and then enjoy an evening performance of the spectacular. This is the ultimate Christmas musical experience and one of the most popular Christmas shows in the country. A magical blend of exciting festive entertainment, with Christmas songs, carols, dazzling dancers, beautiful costumes, outstanding music and singing from a cast of over one hundred. All this against the backdrop of steam engines and mechanical organs. We enjoy this spectacular event from excellent reserved seats.

Christmas Spectacular 3 daY

Comfortable family-run hotel set in its own grounds in Thorpe St Andrew, about two miles from central Norwich. No lift. www.oaklands-hotel.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 2 nights bed and breakfast • Dinner on 1 night • Lunch on 1 day • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Excellent ticket for Thursford Christmas Spectacular

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Wed 21 Nov

£315

£30

£28

FesTiVe

Birmingham International Tattoo 3 daYs

3★

deParTUres

MiLiTarY MaGiC £309

and Christmas Market

BesT WesTern PLUs oaKLands hoTeL, norWiCh

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Birmingham Military Tattoo We visit The NIA for an afternoon performance of the Birmingham international Tattoo. This impressive event, features bands and other performers from across the world in a three-hour extravaganza. There will be an inter-service field gun competition, field dog display and even a town crier! With a cast of over 1,000 and culminating in the spectacular Grand Finale, there is something for everyone at this splendid event. Whether you prefer the massed bands, the spectacular displays or the Parade of Massed Standards, this is an event not to be missed! Birmingham Christmas Market Morning visit to Birmingham's magnificent ‘Frankfurt’ Christmas Market, the largest in the UK. Traditional stalls offer an array of beautiful handmade toys, Christmas decorations, original jewellery and craft goods. Visitors enjoy the delights of Gluhwein, grilled sausages, pretzels, German beer, gingerbread and marzipan sweets. A great way to get into the Christmas spirit! Merry hill shopping Enjoy a free morning for shopping at Westfield Merry hill, the fifth largest shopping centre in the country, which is adjacent to the hotel.

CoPThorne hoTeL, MerrY hiLL 4★

Smart modern hotel with leisure facilities located close to Merry Hill shopping centre. www.millenniumhotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 2 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Birmingham International Tattoo

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Sat 24 Nov

£309

£40

£28

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

BreaThTaKinG £295

FesTiVe

Longleat Festival of Light

& Bath Christmas Market

Ys a d 3

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Longleat Festival of Light This impressive event sees hundreds of enormous illuminated Chinese lanterns, some measuring up to 18 metres in height, transforming the Wiltshire estate in to a glowing wonderland with traditional designs, including dragons and pagodas alongside giant recreations of some of the Safari Park’s famous animals. The event will run alongside traditional Christmas celebrations which include the mansion festively decorated, Giant Musical Christmas Tree and outdoor Ice Skating (pre-booking required). Prior to the event we drive through the safari park and explore the mansion. Bath Christmas Market Each year the centre of Bath is transformed into a magical Christmas shopper’s paradise, as over 170 chalets packed full of gorgeous Christmas gifts line the streets surrounding the roman Baths and Bath abbey. Soak up the sights, smells and sounds as you wander around the market; with the aroma of warming mulled wine and freshly baked mince pies, enjoyed with a generous sprinkling of cheering carols. We visit Bath on our return journey

3★

Overlooking the spectacular Limpley Stoke Valley near Bath, the hotel is a stunning property with extensive gardens and elegant spacious public rooms. It oﬀers the opportunity to relax in the peaceful Georgian lounge in front of the roaring log ﬁres during the winter months. www.limpleystokehotel.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 2 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Longleat

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Tue 27 Nov

£295

£27

£28

soUnds Good £399

FesTiVe

Irish Country Music Weekend 4 daY

BesT WesTern The LiMPLeY sToKe hoTeL, nr BaTh

eXCUrsions inCLUded irish Country Music Weekend Rapidly becoming one of the UK’s most popular events we invite you to join us for the annual irish Country Music Weekend. Experience the ﬁnest live music and dancing from a selection of fantastic performers. Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday afternoon and evening, enjoy a host of talented musicians playing quality Irish Country music. Blackpool Over the weekend take time out in the UK’s favourite seaside resort, Blackpool. Explore its many sights and attractions including Blackpool Tower, the Pleasure Beach and three piers.

hiLTon hoTeL, BLaCKPooL 4★

Smart modern hotel with excellent facilities located on the seafront in Blackpool. www3.hilton.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Entertainment as speciﬁed

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Fri 9 Nov

£399

£60

£28

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

MaGiCaL CaVes £459

FesTiVe

Valkenburg

and Aachen Christmas Markets

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Ys 4 da

Valkenburg Christmas Market During the Christmas Season, the residents of Valkenburg transform their extraordinary caves into Christmas Markets. Shop for Christmas decorations and gifts from more than 50 shops inside the Velvet and Municipal Caves. Cosy restaurants serve hot chocolate and hot spiced wine. The caves’ darkest corners are lit up by bright lights and feature Christmas trees and other decorations. Exploring the impressive structures of the caves is a truly magical experience to delight both adults and children alike. There are various types of merchandise available from winter clothing and hand-blown glass ornaments to jewellery and Belgian chocolates.

aachen Christmas Market aachen Christmas Market is near the city's gothic cathedral and old town hall, with many lovingly decorated stalls. During Advent, the air hangs heavy with the scent of cinnamon and baked apples. Punch and chestnut stands draw customers in with their seasonal treats and there are a wide variety of traditional and stylish goods. Visitors to the Aachen Christmas market should try the city's famous 'Printen' gingerbread cookies. Other must try delicacies include, Gluwein or Mut and the meat lovers dream - Haxen.

hoTeL sChaePKens Van sT FiJT, VaLKenBUrG 3★

Pleasant modern hotel just out of the centre of Valkenburg. www.hotelschaepkens.nl What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Sun 2 Dec

£459

£73

£28

WeLsh WeLCoMe £379

FesTiVe

Celtic Winter Warmer

eXCUrsions inCLUded

s aY d 5

Llandudno We visit the pleasant seaside resort of Llandudno. There’s plenty of time to stroll along the pleasant promenade or the longest pier in Wales. Alternatively, why not take a tram up the mighty Great Orme? We return via snowdonia and the Llanberis Pass. Caernarfon and the Lleyn Peninsula We enjoy a morning free to explore the historic town of Caernarfon, which has an imposing castle. In the afternoon, we take a scenic drive along the Lleyn Peninsula. This Area of outstanding Natural Beauty is mix of culture and heritage, traditional farmsteads and little ports, beaches, bays and sea-cliﬀs. entertainment We enjoy two nights of live entertainment and bingo/quiz on another.

CeLTiC roYaL hoTeL, CaernarFon 3★

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Mon 12 Nov

£379

£84

£38

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

FesTiVe FUn £409

Yorkshire

FesTiVe

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Winter Wonderland s 5 daY

Castle howard at Christmas Beautifully decked out each year by the Hon. Simon and Mrs Howard, Christmas at Castle howard fills the festive season with sparkle and cheer. Inside one of the most magnificent stately homes in the country, we discover breathtaking interiors lit by candle and firelight, dressed with magnificent trees, winter garlands and floral arrangements. scarborough We visit the nearby resort of scarborough. The town became known as probably the world’s first seaside resort back in the 1600s, when the health-giving properties of the Spa waters were discovered. Bathing machines to preserve swimmers’ modesty as they took to the sea were first seen here. And by the mid-1800s, with the coming of the railways and the popularity of sea bathing on the rise, Scarborough was the venue for two of the world’s first purpose-built hotels. Whitby We visit the picturesque fishing port of Whitby. The town is dominated by ruined Whitby Abbey, which inspired Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’. entertainment Enjoy entertainment every night

3★ AA

Lovely country house hotel in a stunning cliﬀ top location. This impressive mansion enjoys breathtaking views over Robin Hood's Bay. Extensive well-kept grounds include tennis courts, putting green, swimming pools and historic battlements. www.ravenhall.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Admission to Castle Howard • Entertainment

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Mon 19 Nov

£409

£0

£38

ChrisTMas is CoMinG £429

FesTiVe

Sidmouth

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Festive Fun

s aY d 5

Pleasant Torquay We enjoy a visit to the ‘Riviera’ resort of Torquay, which has a wealth of attractions such as Torre Abbey which dates from the 12th century. Why not walk the ‘Agatha Christie Mile’ along the pleasant seafront? historic exeter We travel to exeter, which has a magniﬁcent Gothic Cathedral. Just oﬀ the High Street is Parliament Street, Europe’s narrowest street, being just 25 inches wide! There is great shopping at the Guildhall Shopping Centre. entertainment Mulled wine and mince pies will be served on arrival. Afternoon tea and Christmas Cake. Christmas Dinner followed by music and dancing. Christmas carols with the Town Band or Hand Bell Ringers.

raVen haLL CoUnTrY hoUse hoTeL, nr sCarBoroUGh

roYaL YorK and FaULKner hoTeL, sidMoUTh 3★

Splendid highly-rated hotel, with Regency charm and grandeur in a wonderful position at the centre of Sidmouth’s elegant Esplanade. The Royal York and Faulkner has been family-owned and run for over 60 years and oﬀers high standards of service. The public areas are spacious and there are spa facilities to enjoy. www.royalyorkhotel.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Entertainment

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Wed 21 Nov

£429

£0

£38

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

drinKs inCLUded £439

FesTiVe

Blackpool

eXCUrsions inCLUded Lake district We enjoy scenic tour to the Lake district. We travel via beautiful Ullswater and over the lofty Kirkstone Pass to Windermere. We continue passing Helvellyn to Keswick, situated beneath the imposing mass of Skiddaw.

‘Golden Years Inclusive’ Break Ys 5 da

southport southport is a classic seaside resort with scenic parks and gardens and fabulous shopping. See the UK’s oldest iron pier. ‘all-inclusive’ drinks package From 6pm to midnight each evening including draught beer, lager, cider, a range of nonalcoholic soft drinks, wine by the glass, selected spirits, selected vermouth and sherry and regular tea and coﬀee. entertainment Enjoy a ‘We’ll Meet Again’ celebration evening with a themed menu and 1940’s sing-along. Sample and hear the how the ‘Mayﬂower Spirit Cocktail’ was created. Learn about the Imperial and Blackpool ‘Across the Years’ with a lively, entertaining talk. Discover the former Turkish Baths on a Heritage tour of the Hotel.

iMPeriaL hoTeL, BLaCKPooL 4★ AA

The Imperial Hotel, Blackpool, is a grand 19th Century hotel recalling the opulence and glamour of this famous resort’s Victorian heyday, with all the comforts of modern life. Situated on North Promenade, The Imperial has welcomed a host of royalty, politicians, statesmen and stars of both the stage and screen over the years. The hotel enjoys spectacular views over the beach to the sea. www.imperialhotelblackpool.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • ‘All-Inclusive’ drinks package • Entertainment

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Mon 26 Nov

£439

£100

£38

CraCKer £365

FesTiVe

Turkey and Tinsel in Bournemouth

Ys 5 da

eXCUrsions inCLUded day 1 ‘Christmas Eve’. We break for lunch in Winchester, arriving late afternoon in Bournemouth. Festive entertainment following dinner. day 2 ‘Christmas Day’. Morning excursion to the new Forest. Afternoon at leisure to explore Bournemouth. Sherry and Christmas Cake followed by Bingo. Traditional Christmas fayre served for dinner followed by entertainment. day 3 ‘Boxing Day’. We enjoy a day excursion to the seaside resort of Weymouth, travelling through the attractive Dorset countryside. Dinner followed by dancing and entertainment. day 4 ‘New Year’s Eve’. Morning excursion to Poole. Afternoon tea dance with tea and mince pies. Enjoy a glass of Bucks Fizz before dinner. Later enjoy entertainment. day 5 Homeward journey, breaking for lunch in salisbury.

BesT WesTern hoTeL roYaLe, BoUrneMoUTh 3★ AA

Located on the East Cliﬀ, just a short walk from the seafront and local shops and amenities, is this privately-owned hotel which is highly rated. Public areas are contemporary in style, and facilities include a small health club. www.thehotelroyale.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Entertainment

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Mon 3 Dec

£365

£0

£38

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

GLiTTerinG £589

FesTiVe

Christmas in Bath s 5 daY

eXCUrsions inCLUded day 1 home pick up We break for lunch in Marlborough, arriving late afternoon on the outskirts of Bath.

Christmas eve We drive you into central Bath. Designated as a World Heritage site by UNESCO, Bath is home to some of the finest architectural sights in Europe; such as the Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge and The Roman Baths. For over 2000 years, bathing in Bath’s mineral rich waters has attracted visitors from far and wide. Today you can combine old with new, visiting the Roman Bath’s Museum, and then enjoy the natural thermal waters at Thermae Bath Spa Drinks and carols with the resident pianist. ‘Merry Christmas’! Mulled wine and canapes, followed by a traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings. Afternoon tea and Christmas cake. Finger buffet. Our tour manager will organise a festive quiz. Boxing day Morning mystery drive, returning for a buffet lunch. Gala dinner with live music. day 5 Homeward journey. Please note that Christmas and New Year Programmes are subject to change

3★

Overlooking the spectacular Limpley Stoke Valley near Bath, the hotel is a stunning property with extensive gardens and elegant spacious public rooms. It oﬀers the opportunity to relax in the peaceful Georgian lounge in front of the roaring log ﬁres during the winter months. www.limpleystokehotel.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Lunch on 2 days • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Entertainment

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Sun 23 Dec

£589

£60

£38

PoPULar ToUr £719

FesTiVe

Christmas

eXCUrsions inCLUded day 1 Home pick up. Arrive mid-afternoon in Bournemouth. Dinner and entertainment.

in Bournemouth Ys a d 5

Christmas eve At leisure for last minute shopping or just a stroll along the promenade in Bournemouth. drinks reception, dinner and entertainment. ‘Merry Christmas’! Traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings. Afternoon tea and Christmas cake. Buﬀet dinner with entertainment. Boxing day Morning excursion to the new Forest, returning for a buﬀet lunch. In the afternoon, take your seats at the Bournemouth Pavilion for a performance of a popular panto. Evening entertainment. day 5 Homeward journey. Please note that Christmas and New Year Programmes are subject to change

BesT WesTern The LiMPLeY sToKe hoTeL, nr BaTh

BesT WesTern hoTeL roYaLe, BoUrneMoUTh 3★

Located on the East Cliﬀ, just a short walk from the seafront and local shops and amenities, is this privately-owned hotel which is highly rated. Public areas are contemporary in style, and facilities include a small health club. www.thehotelroyale.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Lunch on 2 days • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Entertainment • Panto ticket

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Sun 23 Dec

£719

£100

£38

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

FesTiVe FUn £689

FesTiVe

Christmas

eXCUrsions inCLUded day 1 Home pick up. Arrive late afternoon near Stratford-upon-Avon for tea and cakes. Champagne reception, dinner and pianist.

in Stratford-upon-Avon Ys 5 da

Christmas eve We travel into Shakespeare’s stratford-upon-avon for last-minute shopping, returning for lunch at the hotel. Pre-dinner glass of bubbly and carol singers. Dinner and quiz. ‘Merry Christmas’! Morning coffee and biscuits. Traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings. Afternoon tea and Christmas cake. Bingo. Buffet dinner and entertainment. Boxing day Morning falconry display at the hotel, with refreshments. Buffet lunch. In the afternoon, we travel to stratford artshouse for a performance of a popular panto. Gala dinner with musical entertainment and dancing. homeward journey Please note that Christmas and New Year Programmes are subject to change.

sTraTFord Manor hoTeL, near sTraTFord 4★ AA

Located about two miles outside Stratford, this modern hotel set against a rural backdrop with lovely gardens, has excellent leisure facilities. www.qhotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Lunch on Christmas Day • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Entertainment • Panto ticket

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Sun 23 Dec

£689

£100

£38

CeLeBraTe £465

FesTiVe

New Year

eXCUrsions inCLUded day 1 Home pick up. Arrive mid-afternoon in Bournemouth. Dinner and entertainment.

in Bournemouth 4d

aYs

new Year’s eve At leisure for last minute shopping or just a stroll along the promenade in Bournemouth. new Year’s eve Ball. A Gala Dinner will be served, whilst the Highland Pipers will lift your spirits during Dinner. Enjoy live entertainment and disco dancing to see in the New Year with fellow guests. at midnight... The big countdown to see in the new Year. ‘happy new Year’! Afternoon drive to the new Forest. Dinner followed by entertainment. day 4 Homeward journey. Please note that Christmas and New Year Programmes are subject to change.

BesT WesTern hoTeL roYaLe, BoUrneMoUTh 3★ AA

Located on the East Cliﬀ, just a short walk from the seafront and local shops and amenities, is this privately-owned hotel which is highly rated. Public areas are contemporary in style, and facilities include a small health club. www.thehotelroyale.com What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed and breakfast • Lunch on 2 days • Services of a Tour Guide throughout • Entertainment • Panto ticket

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

insUranCe

Sun 30 Dec

£465

£75

£38

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

GreaT VaLUe £349

Warners

Warner Leisure Hotels Thoresby Hall s aY d 5

eXCUrsions inCLUded nottingham Discover nottingham and its excellent shopping scene, with two indoor shopping centres this compact and foot friendly city also oﬀers six galleries of cultural interest, the Lace Market, Nottingham Castle and the 17th century Ducal Palace. newark Wednesday morning we head to newark for market day, you may like to visit its imposing 12th Century castle, two museums and one of the ﬁnest Georgian market squares in Britain. entertainment Enjoy entertainment every night. On this break one night there is a Michael Buble tribute act with a live band.

ThoresBY haLL, noTTinGhaMshire 4★

Thoresby Hall is a majestic Grade 1 listed country hotel set in 50 acres. The hotel boasts three restaurants, bars and a coﬀee shop. Leisure facilities include an indoor swimming pool, spa pool, sauna, steam room and luxurious spa. Most of the rooms are in a purpose-built building close to the historic house. Choose a Signature upgrade for an extra-special experience. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

rooM UPGrade insUranCe

Mon 8 January

£349

£25

£30

GreaT VaLUe £299

£38

Warners

Warner Coastal Village Sinah Warren s aY d 5

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Chichester We include an excursion to nearby Chichester. One of the best preserved Georgian cities in the UK, it is very compact and mostly pedestrianised. Try and visit the cathedral or maybe the Pallant House Gallery; shopping is varied with lots of independent retailers set in the historic streets. Portsmouth Enjoy an excursion to the maritime city of Portsmouth. You can visit the dockyard where attractions include the Mary Rose and HMS Victory. There’s also great shopping at Gunwharf Quays. entertainment Enjoy entertainment every night. Enjoy a comedy act, vocalist, live music and more!

sinah Warren, haYLinG isLand With elegant gardens, a heated pool just steps from the beach, plus endless things to do, that tradition lives on here (albeit with contemporary decor and modern facilities). Sea to two sides, a golf course nearby, local walks and historic Portsmouth a short drive away everything you could want is here. In fact, with the glimmering waters and colourful yachts gliding by, you could almost be on the Riviera! Choose a Signature upgrade for an extra-special experience. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

rooM UPGrade insUranCe

Mon 15 January

£299

£25

£30

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

£38

GreaT VaLUe £324

Warners

Warner Leisure Hotels Holme Lacy Ys 5 da

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Beautiful Wye Valley We visit the attractive riverside town of ross-onWye, which has many old buildings and a 17th century market hall. After lunch we enjoy a tour of the Wye Valley. We make a brief stop at Yat Rock, a sheer cliﬀ overlooking a bend in the River Wye, where if you are lucky you might see Peregrine Falcons, which nest there. hereford Hereford is a lovely city with a lively feel. There are lots of things to do, not least indulging in some shopping! Wander around the independent stores in the historical centre and call in to the adjacent brand spanking new prestigious Old Market, built on the site of the old livestock market. A visit to the 13th Century Mappa Mundi at Hereford Cathedral is a must. entertainment Enjoy entertainment every night. Enjoy two comedians, live music and more!

hoLMe LaCY, hereFord 4★

This Grade I listed mansion was completed in 1674 and was reportedly visited by Charles II, and William Pitt, 1st Earl of Chatham, who held cabinet meetings in the gardens. Set in 50 acres of gardens in the Wye Valley, Holme Lacy is one of Herefordshire’s treasures. There’s plenty to do, with daily entertainment, an indoor pool, and a choice of restaurants. Most of the rooms are in a purpose-built building close to the historic house. Choose a Signature upgrade for an extra-special experience. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

rooM UPGrade insUranCe

Mon 22 January

£324

£25

£30

GreaT VaLUe £339

£38

Warners

Warner Leisure Hotels Nidd Hall aYs d 5

eXCUrsions inCLUded

exploring The dales A full day exploring the beautiful Yorkshire dales, where we enjoy a visit to the pretty Wharfedale market town of Grassington. Later we travel via Kettlewell, the location used to represent the village of ‘Knapely’ in the 2003 ﬁlm ‘Calendar Girls’, to Hawes, beautifully situated in Wensleydale. We return via Ribblesdale, passing the impressive ribblehead Viaduct. ripon The small Cathedral city of ripon is ﬁlled with modern shops, cafes and restaurants, whilst keeping its original beauty that makes Ripon such a popular place. Every Thursday, Ripon holds a market on the market square. entertainment Enjoy entertainment every night. Enjoy live music and West End songs.

nidd haLL, harroGaTe 4★

Elegant Nidd Hall oﬀers something for everyone, experience the tranquility of the library, unwind in the sauna, stretch the limbs with a refreshing swim in the indoor heated pool, enjoy a beauty therapy, or take a stroll around the magniﬁcent grounds. Most of the rooms are in a purpose-built building close to the historic house. Choose a Signature upgrade for an extra-special experience. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

rooM UPGrade insUranCe

Mon 12 Feb

£339

£25

£30

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

£38

GreaT VaLUe FroM £305

Warners

Warner Leisure Hotels Alvaston Hall aYs d 5 4/

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Medieval and roman Chester Chester is packed full of treasures such as the medieval walls and picturesque black and white timbered buildings. The cathedral dates from the 11th century and the Grosvenor Museum has relics from Roman Times, when Chester was known as Deva. You can shop in the galleried ‘Rows’, which date from medieval times. Liverpool We travel to Liverpool and the celebrated Albert Dock. There is so much to see and do at this superbly redeveloped area. The Tate Liverpool is the most visited museum of contemporary art outside London. The Beatles Story tells the journey of the Fab Four. The Maritime Museum tells the story of Liverpool’s rich maritime past. entertainment Enjoy entertainment every night.

aLVasTon haLL, nr nanTWiCh 4★

A Grade II listed Victorian property, Alvaston Hall is a half-timbered country house that’s the perfect place to relax, or use as a base for exploring the local area. Most of the rooms are in a purpose-built building close to the historic house. Choose a Signature upgrade for an extra-special experience. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast (February and October) • 3 nights dinner, bed and breakfast (April)

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

rooM UPGrade insUranCe

Mon 26 Feb

£339

£25

£30

£38

Fri 6 Apr

£339

£20

£25

£28

Mon 8 Oct

£395

£25

£30

£38

GreaT VaLUe £345

Warners

Warner Leisure Hotels Bodelwyddan Castle

eXCUrsions inCLUded

s aY d 4

Llandudno and snowdonia We visit the pleasant seaside resort of Llandudno. There’s plenty of time to stroll along the pleasant promenade or the longest pier in Wales. Later we enjoy a drive through the beautiful scenery of snowdonia. We return via the spectacular Llanberis Pass, enjoying magniﬁcent mountain views. entertainment Enjoy entertainment every night. Top Tribute Party (with Hitzville performing the hits of the American Drifters).

BodeLWYddan CasTLe 4★

Bodelwyddan is a Grade II listed Victorian property on the North Wales coast, recently the subject of a £6 million renovation. The hotel oﬀers a superb range of leisure facilities, numerous daily activities, and nightly live entertainment. Most of the rooms are in a purpose-built building close to the historic house. Choose a Signature upgrade for an extra-special experience. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed and breakfast

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

rooM UPGrade insUranCe

Fri 18 May

£379

£20

£25

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

£28

GreaT VaLUe £339

Warners

Warner Leisure Hotels Littlecote House s aY d 4

4★

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Cotswolds One of the most picturesque rural areas of the country. See rolling hills and pretty villages with yellow Cotswold Stone houses. We break for lunch in pretty Bourton-on-the-Water, which straddles the River Windrush, with a series of attractive low bridges. Later we visit Broadway which has a picturesque high street. entertainment Enjoy entertainment every night.

Built in the mid-1500s, this beautiful Grade I listed Tudor manor has a truly unique story. Most of the rooms are in a purpose-built building close to the historic house. Choose a Signature upgrade for an extra-special experience. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed and breakfast

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

rooM UPGrade insUranCe

Fri 10 Aug

£375

£20

£25

GreaT VaLUe £335

Warners

Warner Coastal Village Lakeside 5 daY

LiTTLeCoTe hoUse, hUnGerFord

eXCUrsions inCLUded

www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

rooM UPGrade insUranCe

Mon 20 Aug

£369

£25

£30

Warners

aYs d 5

LaKeside, haYLinG isLand With a bright courtyard at its centre, and situated by the sea on Hayling Island in Hampshire, Lakeside makes for a great seaside break. You’ll be bowled over by the warm, friendly atmosphere that captures the hearts of all who visit here. Meet and make friends at the central courtyard, friendly café or cosy bar at the heart of this charming village. Choose a Signature upgrade for an extra-special experience.

deParTUres

FesTiVe FUn £379

Warner Leisure Hotels Cricket St Thomas

£28

£38

CriCKeT sT ThoMas, Chard 4★

eXCUrsions inCLUded

Weymouth We visit the seaside resort of Weymouth, which has a sandy beach, picturesque harbour and a variety of traditional attractions. The resort has ﬁne Georgian architecture and Queen Victoria's Jubilee Clock. sidmouth sidmouth has been popular since Regency times. Beautiful gardens and leisurely walks, clean beaches and friendly shops…. it’s all here in this lovely seaside town that nestles beneath majestic red cliﬀs and the green hills of the glorious Sid Valley. entertainment Enjoy entertainment every night. Turkey and Tinsel Festive Fun.

The scene of much of the famous TV comedy, To The Manor Born, Cricket St. Thomas was also frequently visited by Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton. This classic country house is set in splendid parkland. The hotel provides extensive entertainment and excellent dining venues. Most of the rooms are in a purpose-built building close to the historic house. Choose a Signature upgrade for an extra-special experience. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk What’s included • Door to door service • Luxury coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast

deParTUres

PriCe

sinGLe sUPP

rooM UPGrade insUranCe

Mon 5 Nov

£415

£25

£30

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

£38

Gardiners NMC Limited Bonded Coach Holidays Group Trading Charter

oUr TradinG CharTer WiTh YoU 1 FinanCiaL ProTeCTion Your contract is with Gardiners NMC Limited. Our Trading Charter and Booking Conditions set out clearly and simply the responsibility we have to you and in turn, you have with us, when a contract is made. When you book a holiday with us, which doesn’t include a flight, the money you pay us for the booking will be protected by the Bonded Coach Holidays Group of the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK Ltd, this is a Government approved consumer protection scheme. Please see the BCH Consumer Guarantee at www.bch-uk.org. There is no financial protection if you purchase just transport or accommodation-only from us. 2 BooKinG and PaYMenT When a booking is made, the 'lead name' on the booking guarantees that he or she is 18 or over and has the authority and accepts on behalf of the party the terms of these booking conditions and pays the deposit indicated in the brochure. After we receive your booking and all appropriate payments, if the arrangements you wish to book are available, we will send you or your booking agent a confirmation invoice within 14 days. All monies paid to your booking agent are held by them on your behalf until we issue our confirmation invoice, thereafter your booking agent holds the money on our behalf. A binding agreement will come into existence between us when we dispatch this invoice to the 'lead name' or your booking agent. Please check the confirmation carefully to ensure all the information is correct. This contract is governed by English Law, and the jurisdiction of the English Courts. Single occupancy of rooms, when available, may be subject to a supplementary charge and these will be shown in the brochure. You can book by paying a deposit for each person named on the booking but our commitment is always conditional upon the balance being paid as below; Deposit £30.00 per person or 10% of your holiday cost whichever is the greater amount. Please note that we can only accept Credit Card payments for the deposit portion of your holiday. The balance of the price of your holiday must be paid at least 6 weeks before your departure. If you book within our balance due period, you will need to pay the total holiday cost at the time of booking. If the balance is not paid in time we reserve the right to cancel your holiday, retain your deposit, and apply the cancellation charges set out in the paragraph below. The date of cancellation will normally be the date we receive your written confirmation that you intend to cancel or 15 days after the balance due date, whichever comes first. Where optional items are purchased as part of the holiday, these are payable on the balance due date except where items, such as theatre tickets, have been specifically purchased for you. In this case the cost may be payable at a separate date notified to you and will not normally be refunded unless we obtain a refund from the supplier we use. 3 BroChUre aCCUraCY Although Gardiners NMC Limited make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the brochure information and pricing, regrettably errors do sometimes occur. You must therefore ensure you check the price and all other details of your holiday with us at the time of booking and when you receive our confirmation invoice 4 oUr PriCinG PoLiCY Gardiners NMC Limited endeavour to ensure that the most up to date and correct prices are shown in our brochure. Occasionally, an incorrect price may be shown, due to an error. When we become aware of any such error, we will endeavour to notify you at the time of booking (if we are then aware of the mistake) or as soon as reasonably possible. We reserve the right to cancel the booking if you do not wish to accept the price which is applicable to the holiday. Local Authorities in many towns and cities throughout Europe have introduced new tourist taxes which must be paid directly to the hotel by all guests in person. These taxes are not included in our prices but we will notify you when applicable.

Holiday prices include all travel, hotel accommodation and meals as specified in the holiday description and VAT payable in the UK where applicable. The price of the holiday will not be subjected to any surcharges except those arising from exchange rate changes, transportation including the price of fuel, air & ferry operator fares and tolls, embarkation or disembarkation fees at terminals, duties and taxes (including the rate of VAT). Even in these cases we will absorb the cost equivalent to the cost of first 2% of the holiday price. Amounts more than this plus £1 administration fee and Travel Agents commission will be surcharged to you. If this means the total cost of the holiday increases by more than 10% then you are entitled to cancel your holiday and receive a full refund of all monies paid except any insurance premium and amendment charges. If you exercise the right to cancel we must receive written notice within 14 days of the date of the surcharge invoice. The currency exchange rate used in the holiday costings are based on rates as at the publication date of this Charter. 5 ChiLdren’s PriCes Children prices are offered for children under 12 years old and are based on children sharing a room with two full fare paying passengers. 6 iF YoU ChanGe YoUr BooKinG If, after our confirmation has been issued, you wish to change to another of our holidays or change departure date, we will do our utmost to make the changes, but we cannot guarantee to do so. However, notification must be received in writing at our offices from the person who made the booking, at least 8 weeks before departures. This must be accompanied by a payment of £20 to cover our administrative costs, plus costs we incur in making the amendment. Alterations may not be able to be made within 6 weeks of departure and any such request for an alteration will be treated as a cancellation of the original booking and will be subject to the cancellation charges set out in paragraph below. Some arrangements cannot be changed without paying a cancellation charge of up to 100% of the ticket cost. 7 TransFerrinG YoUr BooKinG You can transfer your booking to somebody else but the person must satisfy all the conditions of the holiday and this change must be made before departure. This transfer will cost £20 per passenger plus reasonable costs to make the transfer. You will remain responsible for ensuring payment. This is in addition to (and does not affect) the separate responsibility of the transferee to us. 8 iF YoU need To CanCeL YoUr hoLidaY You or any member of your party may cancel your holiday at any time provided the cancellation is made by the person signing the booking form and is communicated to us in writing via the office who made your original booking. You must pay cancellation charges to cover our administration costs and to compensate for the risk of us not reselling the holiday. Your cancellation will take effect from the date on which we or our agent receive your written confirmation of your cancellation. You must also return any tickets or vouchers you have received. A reduction in room occupancy may increase the charges for the remaining passengers by the application of supplements for low occupancy of rooms. Where bought in supplies, such as ferries, hotel accommodation etc have been bought in on your behalf, and where the terms and conditions of the supplier are non-refundable, these products will be charged to you at the full retail rate. If this applies, the non-refundable items will be deducted from your holiday costs and the following scale of charges will be applied to the remainder: Period before departure within which written cancellation of package price is received

Amount of cancellation charge as a % of total package cost

More than 56 days

Deposit only

55-49 days

30% or Deposit, if greater

48-22 days

50%

21-8 days

70%

7-1 days

100%

Departure day or later including voluntary termination during the package

Total package cost

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk

9 aLTeraTions To YoUr hoLidaY BY Us We hope that we will not have to make any change to your holiday but, because our holidays are planned many months in advance, we sometimes do need to make minor changes. We reserve the right to do this at any time. We will let you or your booking agent know about any important changes as soon as possible. If after booking, and before departure, we make a major change to your holiday, you will have the option of withdrawing from the holiday without penalty or transferring to another holiday without any charge. In either case, we will pay you compensation, according to the scale set below. A major change includes the time of your departure or return time by more than 12 hours, a change in departure point, location of resort or type of hotel, a change in cross channel travel. If we tell you about any of these changes after we have conﬁrmed your holiday booking (other than force majeure), you may either: l accept the new arrangements oﬀered by us; or

l accept a replacement holiday from us of equivalent or similar standard and price (at the date of the change), if we can oﬀer you one; or l cancel your holiday with us and receive a full refund of all monies

Either way, we will pay you compensation, using the Compensation table shown, Period before departure in which signiﬁcant change is notiﬁed to you or your agent More than 26 days

Amount per person Nil

15 to 25 days

£15

8 to 14 days

£20

0 to 7 days

£25

iMPorTanT noTe Compensation will not be payable if the holiday is cancelled because the number of persons booked is less than the number required, or for events beyond our control, which include: war, threat of war, riots, civil disturbances, terrorist activity and its consequences, industrial disputes, natural and nuclear disasters, fire, epidemics, health risks and pandemics, unavoidable and unforeseeable technical problems with transport for reasons beyond our control or that of our suppliers; hurricanes and other actual or potential severe weather conditions, and any other similar events. You are also advised to check with The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice Unit regularly at www.fco.gov.uk/travel prior to travel. All holidays operate if the minimum number of participants is met. However, in no case will we cancel your holiday less than 3 weeks before the scheduled departure date, except where you have failed to pay the final balance or because of force majeure (force majeure means an event which we or the suppliers of the services in question could not foresee or avoid and is therefore beyond our control) 10 oUr resPonsiBiLiTY To YoU We will endeavour to ensure the holiday which you book with us is supplied as described in our publicity material and the services offered reach a reasonable standard. We accept responsibility for the acts and/or omissions of our employees, agents and suppliers except where they lead to death, injury or illness. Our liability in all cases shall be limited to a maximum of twice the value of the original holiday cost (not including insurance premiums and amendment charges). We accept responsibility for death, injury, or illness caused by the negligent acts and/or omissions of our employees or agents together with our suppliers and sub-contractors, servants and/or agents of the same whilst acting within the scope of, or during their employment in the provision of your holiday. We will accordingly pay to our clients such damages as might have been awarded in such circumstances under English Law. In respect of carriage by air, sea, tunnel and rail and the provision of accommodation our liability in all cases will be limited in the manner provided by the relevant international convention.

If we make any payment to you or any member of your party for death or personal injury or illness, you will be asked to assign to us or our insurers the rights you may have to act against the person or organisation responsible for causing the death, personal injury or illness. This clause does not apply to any separate contracts that you may enter for excursions or activities during or outside of your holiday. If you or any member of your party suffer death, illness or injury whilst overseas arising out of an activity which does NOT form part of your holiday, we may offer guidance and where legal action is contemplated and you want our assistance, you must obtain our written consent prior to any proceedings (We limit the cost of our assistance to you or your party to £5000 per party) 11 iF YoU haVe a CoMPLainT If you have a problem during your holiday, please inform your Tour Manager, your Driver or the relevant Supplier/Resort Representative immediately who will endeavour to put things right. If your complaint cannot be completely resolved locally, you must complete a Holiday Report Form which can be obtained by your Driver or local Representative, which you should keep. If you remain dissatisfied please follow this up within 14 days of your return home by writing to Gardiners NMC Ltd, 18 Coopies Haugh, Coopies Lane Industrial Estate, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 6JN giving your original booking reference number and all other relevant information, including the reference of the Holiday Report Form. It is therefore a condition of this contract that you communicate any problem to the supplier of the services in question AND to our Representative whilst in resort and obtain a written report form. If you fail to follow this simple procedure, we cannot accept responsibility, as we have been deprived of the opportunity to investigate and rectify the problem. Should your complaint not be resolved and you wish to pursue the complaint further the Bonded Coach Holiday Group have an Alternative Dispute Resolution scheme and full details are available from BCH/CPT. Please contact them at, the Confederation of Passenger Transport, Fifth Floor South, Chancery House, 53-64 Chancery Lane, London. WC2A 1QS 12 oUr CoaChes-seaTinG aranGeMenTs We will always use our reasonable endeavours to provide a coach to the specification in our brochure or advert, but reserve the right to substitute an alternative vehicle should there be unforeseen circumstances. There is a seating plan but in some cases, operational reasons may require a coach with a different configuration. We reserve the right to alter a coach seating plan and allocate seats other than those booked. Single passengers may be required to share a double seat with other single passengers. When your booking is confirmed, you will be given a choice of seats that are available at that time. Specific seats will not be allocated on coaches operating a feeder service between joining points and main holiday departure points or on coaches that carry out transfers between airports, seaports etc. If you feel that you require two seats, then these must be purchased in advance at the time of booking. If you fail to do this and it transpires that the seat allocated is insufficient for your needs and the is no alternative seating available, then you will be refused access to the coach and any payments made will be liable to forfeiture. 13 hoTeL FaCiLiTies Some hotel facilities and entertainment may be withdrawn for routine maintenance or be subject to seasonal availability and provision of the facilities cannot be guaranteed. Single occupancy of rooms may be subject to a supplementary charge. 14 heaLTh and saFeTY In some foreign countries, standards of infrastructure, safety and hygiene may be lower than those to which we are accustomed in the UK. You should therefore exercise greater care for your own protection. There may be countries that we visit that have special medical requirements for tourists. These regulations are subject to change and our clients are responsible for complying with entry and current health requirements. If you are not sure of the health requirements for the country you are visiting, you are advised to check with your own GP before travelling. You are also advised to refer to the Department of Health leaflet “Health Advice for Travellers” Some people may be at risk from discomfort or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) if they remain immobile on a journey for a long period. If you are planning to undertake a journey of more than three hours, you should consult

your doctor, if you have ever had DVT, pulmonary embolism, a family history of clotting conditions, cancer or treatment for cancer, stroke, and heart or lung disease or If you have had major surgery in the past three months.

responsible for bringing with you the proper clothing and equipment, which we advise you about in our printed trip information. We want you to enjoy your holiday and will help you select an appropriate trip.

We reserve the right to refuse any booking in the absence of a doctor’s certificate confirming that you are fit to travel. Where we provide comfort stops you are encouraged to walk around. Exercise reduces any discomfort, which may be caused by periods of immobility.

18 PassenGer BehaVioUr We want all our customers to have a happy and carefree holiday. You are responsible for your behaviour and hygiene and the eﬀect it may have on others. If you or any other member of your party is abusive, disruptive or behaves in a way that could cause damage or injury to others or aﬀect their enjoyment of their holiday or which could damage property, we have the right to terminate your contract with us and we will have no further liability or obligation to you. If you are refused boarding on the outward journey we will regard it as a cancellation by you and we will apply cancellation charges. If the refusal is on your return journey, we have the right to terminate the contract with you.

SMOKING is not allowed on our coaches (including ECigarettes) and we do not allow pets or any other animals, although we accommodate registered assistance dogs, but not on overseas holidays. 15 TraVeL doCUMenTs, iTineraries, PiCK-UP PoinTs and PassPorTs For all Continental holidays, you will require a full 10year British Passport (machine readable) valid for the period required for the country or countries you are visiting. If you do not hold a full British Passport or you have any doubts about your status as a resident British subject, you must check with the Embassy or Consulates of the Countries to be visited to confirm the Passport or visa requirements when you book. We cannot accept responsibility if passengers are not in possession of the correct travel documents. For full details on passport requirements, please contact ‘the identity and passport service’ on 0300 222 0000 (www.direct.gov.uk)” You are responsible for ensuring you are at the correct departure point, at the correct time and with the correct documents we reserve the right to modify itineraries to conform with requests from competent authorities both within the UK and abroad. Excursions which are included in the cost of your booking are detailed on the brochure page and refunds will not be made for excursions not taken. Optional excursions booked and paid for in resort do not form part of your booking. Admission fees to buildings may not be included in the price of the holiday, please check. 16 sPeCiaL reQUesTs All special needs and requests should be made at the time of booking. These cannot be guaranteed except where confirmed as part of our holiday commitment to you and are detailed on your holiday booking confirmation. We are keen to ensure that we plan the arrangements for your holiday so that special needs and requests can be accommodated as far as possible. If you will need assistance, or may be unable to fully enjoy all aspects of your holiday you must tell us in advance so that we can maximise your enjoyment of the holiday. We will need to know if you will need special facilities in the hotel, taking part in the excursions or have difficulty boarding and travelling on the coach or other means of transport. Before booking your holiday, you should be sure that you and your party are both physically and mentally capable of completing the itinerary. If you need advice or further information, you or your booking agent should contact the Morpeth office on 01670 519952 or the Epsom office on 01372 610000. If you will require a special diet please tell us at the time of booking, or as soon as you are medically advised, together with a copy of the diet. 17 PassenGers WiTh disaBiLiTies We want everyone to enjoy our travel arrangements. We are happy to advise and assist you in choosing a suitable holiday. But, as some of the accommodation and resorts featured may not cater for even minor disabilities, it is important that, when booking, you advise us of any disability, specific need or complex need you may have and any special requirements that will make sure the holiday is suitable. If a passenger requires personal assistance (for example, assistance with feeding, dressing, toileting, mobilising) then this passenger must travel with an able-bodied companion or carer and written confirmation that such assistance will be provided for the entirety of the holiday is required at the time of booking. Coach Drivers/Tour Managers are unable to provide such assistance.

We also request that mobile telephones are not used on the coach save for exceptional circumstances, any music/games/sounds should be silent mode or whilst wearing headphones. 19 TraVeL insUranCe We strongly advise that you take out personal travel insurance for the trip. We have arranged comprehensive travel insurance with Wrightsure Services (Hampshire) Limited, which is outlined below. You must advise us of details of the insurer and the emergency assistance company providing cover and the policy number and 24 hour contact number. The insurance should cover medical and repatriation costs, personal injury, loss of baggage and cancellation charges. If you do not have adequate insurance and require our assistance during your holiday, we reserve the right to reclaim from you any medical repatriation or other expenses which we may incur on your behalf which would otherwise have been met by insurers. You must advise us if you use an alternative insurer, the policy number and 24 hour contact number. 20 LUGGaGe Please restrict your luggage to a suitcase weighing no more than 23 kgs per person. We cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to luggage unless through our negligence. Please do not leave valuable items in your suitcase when left on the coach. 21 daTa ProTeCTion aCT We retain your full contact details and other information in secure ﬁles and electronic storage facilities. We may use this information to contact you by mail, telephone or electronic means. We must pass your information on to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements and we take full responsibility for ensuring that proper measures are in place to protect your information. In making this booking, you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons or suppliers. Your data controller is Gardiners NMC Limited. 22 driVer/CreW GraTUiTies We do not include gratuities in the price of your tour. Should you feel you have received a level of service that deserves rewarding, please feel free to do so in person with the driver/crew member. 23 sCooTers/WheeLChairs For passengers with mobility issues we are happy to carry fold away walking aids/wheelchairs. We will also carry lightweight 3 wheel mobility scooters, however, due to Health and Safety you may be required to load/unload the scooter from the coach without the assistance of the driver. Alternatively, you may be able to hire a scooter in the resort. 24 ChiLd PriCes Child prices are based on two adults sharing one room with children. PUBLiCaTion daTe This Trading Charter was printed on 10th October 2017.

iMPorTanT You must tell us if you have an existing medical condition, disability or complex need that may affect your holiday or other group members’ enjoyment of it, before you book your holiday. We reserve the right to request a doctor’s certificate confirming the passenger is fit to travel. If, in our reasonable opinion, your chosen holiday is not suitable for your medical condition or disability, we reserve the right to refuse your booking. You are

Telephone Gardiners NMC 01372 610000

Year Planner 2018 daTe daYs ToUr TiTLe

PaGe

JanUarY 2018 Mon 8 Mon 15 Mon 15 Mon 22

5 5 5 5

Warners Thoresby Hall Devon Cosy Break Warners Sinah Warren Warners Holme Lacy

4 5 5 3 5 5

Reunion Break Bournemouth ‘All Inclusive’ Warners Nidd Hall Snowdrops at Hodsock Priory Eastbourne in the Spring Warners Alvaston Hall

66 8 66 67

5 8 67 6 9 68

MarCh 2018 Sun 4 Tue 6 Fri 16 Fri 23 Thu 29 Thu 29 Thu 29

5 5 5 4 5 5 5

Southport ‘All Inclusive’ Cornwall Break Sidmouth in the Spring Mystery Break Cheshire and the Terracotta Warriors Suﬀolk Coast and Countryside Yorkshire and Lincolnshire Explorer

9 10 10 5 11 11 12

aPriL 2018 Fri 6 Fri 6 Mon 9 Mon 9 Fri 13 Sun 15 Mon 16 Fri 20 Fri 20 Mon 23 Mon 23 Thu 26 Sun 29 Mon 30 Mon 30

5 4 5 5 4 5 5 4 3 4 5 4 5 5 5

Severn Valley and the Black and White Villages Warners Alvaston Hall Eastbourne Break Glorious Yorkshire Dutch Bulbﬁelds and Keukenhof Torquay Break Isle of Wight Mystery Break The Eden Project and Plymouth* Dutch Bulbﬁelds and Keukenhof Lake District in the Spring Andre Rieu in Cologne Skipton and the Yorkshire Dales Kingdom of Northumbria Shropshire Explorer

12 68 13 14 43 13 15 5

Crystal Waters of Lake Maggiore Devon Coast and Exmoor Great Little Trains of Wales Mystery Break Jersey Explorer by air* Hitting The Heights in Dorset! Warners Bodelwyddan Castle Beautiful Brittany Royal Scotland Austria and the Sound of Music Delight Chatsworth and Delightful Derbyshire Scotch on the Rocks Made in England Alton Towers and Chester Zoo*

48 18 19 5

43 16 43 17 16 18

MaY 2018 Fri 4 Sun 6 Mon 7 Fri 11 Sat 12 Mon 14 Fri 18 Sat 19 Sat 19 Tue 22 Fri 25 Sun 27 Mon 28 Wed 30

8 5 5 4 8 5 4 7 8 9 5 7 5 2

daTe daYs ToUr TiTLe

PaGe

JUne 2018

FeBrUarY 2018 Fri 2 Mon 12 Mon 12 Thu 22 Mon 26 Mon 26

Form erly

19 68 47 39 51 20 33 20

Fri 1 Fri 1 Sun 3 Mon 4 Mon 4 Sun 10 Sun 10 Fri 15 Fri 15 Sun 17 Mon 18 Mon 18 Tue 19 Sun 24 Sun 24 Sun 24 Mon 25 Thu 28 Fri 29

4 3 7 5 5 6 5 3 4 8 5 5 8 5 5 10 5 5 4

Planes, Trains, Boats & 'Being Brunel'! Settle to Carlisle Railway* Bantry Bay, Garnish Island and the Ring of Beara Eastbourne Break Portmeirion, Puﬃns and Snowdonia Romantic Rhine Valley and Boppard Somerset Explorer and Slimbridge BBC Studios Manchester* Mystery Break Torquay Holiday Ludlow, The Feathers and the Shropshire Hills Normandy Explorer Shetland - Island of the Vikings Lake District by Coach and ‘Goat’! Swansea, Gower and the National Botanic Garden Santa Susanna and the best of the Costa’s Coastline Colourful Norfolk Suﬀolk Coast and Countryside Ostend and the Belgian Coast

5 5 5 7 5 5 6 9 8 5 8 5 5 4 9 7 5

Cardigan Bay and Pembrokeshire Explorer Chepstow, Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean Cheshire and the Terracotta Warriors Cornish Seascapes and Legends Glorious Yorkshire A Taste of Devon and Somerset Sidmouth and South Devon Stunning Lake Garda, Venice and the delights of Italy Scotland in the Summer Durham, Beamish and the Great Exhibition of the North Chamonix, Lake Geneva and the French Alps Skipton and the Yorkshire Dales Isle of Wight Mystery Break Lakes, Mountains and Little Trains of Austria Isle of Man Scottish Borders Explorer

6 34 13 21 46 21 5 40 22 45 35 22 23 54 23 11 44

24 24 11 36 14 25 30 54 41 25 49 17 15 5 55 37 26

aUGUsT 2018 Thu 2 Fri 3 Sun 5 Sun 5 Sun 5 Thu 9 Fri 10 Fri 10 Mon 13 Wed 15 Sun 19 Sun 19 Mon 20 Tue 21 Wed 22 Fri 24 Fri 24 Sat 25 Sun 26 Mon 27 Thu 30

5 4 2 2 2 5 4 4 5 4 4 5 5 3 8 5 3 10 6 5 6

Yorkshire and Lincolnshire Explorer Disneyland Paris* Cadbury World and West Midlands Safari Park* Old Traﬀord ‘Theatre of Dreams’ tour* Alton Towers and Chester Zoo* Rhine in Flames Kynren and The Great Exhibition of the North Warners Littlecote House Manchester Ship Canal Cruise, Liverpool and Martin Mere Brussels Carpet of Flowers Edinburgh Military Tattoo Yorkshire Boats, Vines and Lines Warners Lakeside Efteling* Italy’s Beautiful Lake Como and a Swiss Highlight Chatsworth and Delightful Derbyshire Ironbridge Museum Break* Austrian Tyrol Discoverer Great Highland Railways Swansea, Gower and the National Botanic Garden Newcastle, Northumbria and the Alnwick Garden

45 7 69 26 44 7 27 69 56 20 50 31 23 31

Mon 3 Mon 3 Wed 5 Sun 9 Sun 9 Mon 10 Mon 10 Sun 16 Mon 17 Mon 17 Mon 17 Mon 17 Sat 22 Sat 22 Sat 22 Sun 23 Sun 23 Mon 24 Thu 27 Fri 28 Sun 30

5 5 6 7 52 5 5 6 5 5 5 5 8 8 8 6 5 5 5 3 5

Yorkshire Coast and Moors Cardigan Bay and Pembrokehsire Explorer Sidmouth and South Devon Highlights of Northern Ireland The Beautiful Dordogne and Medieval France Colourful Norfolk Lake District by Coach and ‘Goat’! Romantic Rhine Valley and Boppard Eastbourne Break Glorious Yorkshire Ludlow, The Feathers and the Shropshire Hills Portmeirion, Puﬃns and Snowdonia Jersey Explorer by air* Bournemouth Holiday Harz Mountains Historical Trains and Fairytales in Germany Enchanting Cornwall Torquay Break Isle of Wight Cheshire and the Terracotta Warriors Blackpool Illuminations* Somerset Explorer and Slimbridge

oCToBer 2018

Mon 1 Tue 2 Thu 4 Mon 8 Mon 8 Mon 8 Sun 14 Sun 14 Sun 14 Tue 16 Fri 19 Sun 21 Sun 21 Tue 23 Fri 26 Mon 29

5 10 5 5 5 5 5 5 7 5 3 5 5 5 4 5

Hitting The Heights in Dorset! The Cote D’Azur French and Italian Riviera’s Suﬀolk Coast and Countryside Eastbourne Break Llangollen and the Welsh Borders Warners Alvaston Hall Devon Coast and Exmoor Lake District in the Autumn Scotland’s Autumn Gold and the Enchanted Forest Sidmouth in the Autumn Blackpool Illuminations* Derbyshire Singles Break Skipton and the Yorkshire Dales Cornwall Break Mystery Break Kingdom of Northumbria

www.gardinersnmc.co.uk or call 01372 610000

27 24 30 32 52 23 22 46 13 14 22 21 42 57 32 13 15 11 21

19 58 11 13 28 68 18 28 38 29 29 17 10 5 16

noVeMBer 2018

Sun 4 Mon 5 Fri 9 Mon 12 Sat 17 Mon 19 Wed 21 Wed 21 Sat 24 Mon 26 Tue 27 Wed 28 Fri 30

3 5 4 5 3 5 5 3 3 5 3 3 3

The Pudding Club* Warners Cricket St Thomas Irish Country Music Weekend Celtic Winter Warmer Crafts in the Pen* Yorkshire Winter Wonderland Sidmouth Festive Fun Thursford Christmas Spectacular Birmingham International Tattoo and Christmas Market Blackpool ‘Golden Years Inclusive’ Break Longleat Festival of Light and Bath Christmas Market Thursford Christmas Spectacular* Arley Hall Christmas Floral Extravaganza*

deCeMBer 2018

Sun 2 Mon 3 Sun 23 Sun 23 Sun 23 Sun 30

4 5 5 5 5 4

Valkenburg and Aachen Christmas Markets Turkey and Tinsel in Bournemouth Christmas in Bath Christmas in Bournemouth Christmas in Stratford-upon-Avon New Year in Bournemouth

* Please see our Short Breaks and Family Friendly brochure for further details.

PaGe

sePTeMBer 2018

JULY 2018 Mon 2 Mon 2 Thu 5 Sun 8 Mon 9 Mon 9 Wed 11 Wed 11 Sat 14 Mon 16 Sat 21 Sun 22 Mon 23 Fri 27 Sun 29 Sun 29 Sun 29

daTe daYs ToUr TiTLe

69 60 61 62 62 59 59 63 60

61 63 64 64 65 65