Skills Holidays 2020 Summer Brochure

COACH HOLIDAY ADVENTURES THROUGHOUT BRITAIN & EUROPE

2020

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

08456 66 55 44* | WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

1

Welcome to our Skills Holidays 2020 Collection...

Coverack Harbour in Cornwall Š Teamjackson

W e l c o m e .. .

to our brand new 2020 holiday collection.

Our dedicated planners have worked hard to put together an exciting range of experiences, from short breaks to Grand European Tours, from traditional seaside favourites to thrilling shows and events.

Weather you are a regular Skills holidaymaker or trying us for the first time, I very much look forward to welcoming you aboard soon.

Nigel Skill, Skills Group Chairman

How to book ...

CALL US 08456 66 55 44* CALL IN to one of our friendly holiday shops, or any good travel agent.

GO ONLINE book any time, any day at WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

2 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Price Promise Once you have secured your place on one of our great holidays by paying a deposit, we guarantee your price.

Early bookers not only benefit from the best prices, but get the best choice of seats, so it really does pay to plan ahead.

Premium Seats For a small supplement you can secure the best view on the coach as well as the shortest walk from the front steps.

The front row of every tour we operate of 3 days duration or more have been designated as Premium Seats, and these may be purchased at the time of booking.

Holidays PREMIUM DOOR-TO-DOOR by

Single Rooms..

The number of single rooms we are able to secure from our hotels is small compared with the high demand we have for them, and we inevitably sell out of this room type very early.

It may be possible on occasion to ask the hotel to allow us to sell a double room for sole occupancy, but this will usually be at a supplementary cost.

Includes home collection service, where we pick you up from your door and take you to your holiday coach – and of course bring you home after your holiday. We use the best available hotels in the area, include excursions and personal holiday insurance.

Our Sister Holiday Brands...

Fluid Pricing..

Our holidays are planned many months in advance and although all prices are correct at the time of going to print, they may vary from time to time as the year progresses.

Inevitably our most popular holidays are the ones affected the most, so book early to avoid disappointment.

By

COACH TOURISM

OUR MOST AFFORDABLE HOLIDAYS WITH OUR SAME GREAT SERVICE

Coachstyle is our value for money brand, bringing you affordable coach holiday experiences which cover all the best seaside resorts in the UK, excursions to Europe, and great short breaks, events and weekends away.

ASSOCIATION

Financial Security - You’re in Safe Hands..

The combination of travel services offered to you is a package within the meaning of the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018. Therefore, you will benefit from all EU rights applying to packages; Skills will be fully responsible for the proper performance of the package as a whole.

Additionally, as required by law, Skills have protection in place to refund your payments and, where transport is included in the package, to ensure your repatriation in the event that they become insolvent. Skills 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 members Insolvency.

Clients are recommended to inspect the current membership certificate at our registered office or alternatively go to www.bch-uk.org or telephone 0207 240 3131 to confirm current membership.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

3

Joining Your Holiday...

Our pick-up points are designed to provide as many local connections as possible without creating long journeys for the first passenger on the coach. Each pick-up location also has convenient parking nearby.

Alfreton

Bus Station

£15 per person (tours of 4 days or more)

Arnold

High Street

Free

Beeston

Lace Road

£10 per person (tours of 4 days or more)

Bulwell

Sellers Wood Drive

Chesterfield

Coach Station

Derby

Bus Station

Free £30 per person (tours of 4 days or more) Free

East Midlands Parkway

Free (tours of 4 days or more)

Leicester

St Margaret’s Bus Station

Free

Long Eaton

The Green

Free

Loughborough

The Rushes

Free

Lutterworth

George Street

Mansfield

Walkden Street Changing to the Bus Station from April 2020

Free

Nottingham

Mount Street

Free

Rotherham

Transport Hub

£15 per person

Sheffield

Meadowhall

Free (all tours except European)*

Sheffield

Pond Street*

£15 per person (free on European tours)

Toton

Tram Stop

Free (southbound tours only)

Free (tours of 4 days or more)

PLEASE NOTE: Not ALL of the above departure points feature for every tour in this brochure. You may find that we close points due to insufficent passenger numbers. This is at the manager’s discretion, and can be confirmed to you at the time of booking. Timings will no longer be advised at the time of booking, instead departure times will be confirmed in writing to you approximately 2 weeks prior to your departure.

OUR PREMIUM DOOR-TO-DOOR BY SKILLS If you see this sign (on the right hand side) on any of our holidays it means we can offer you our hassle-free Door-to-Door service.

The blue line on our map below illustrates the area in which we offer our complimentary Door-to-Door service. For areas between the blue and red lines, a supplementary charge will apply.

Mansfield Alfreton

Derby Burton

£15 per person supplement

Arnold

Nottingham

On or near the line? If you are unsure as to whether your address entitles you to a free collection then please ask before making your booking.

DID YOU KNOW?

Ashby-dela-Zouch Coalville

FREE ZONE

Loughborough Leicester

Hinckley

Our Door-to-Door is not a private transfer there may be additional passengers on your vehicle.

4 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

We can add our Door-to-Door option onto ANY of our short breaks or holidays for a small additional fee.

For your personalised quote please call a member of our sales team on 08456 66 55 44*.

Prices quoted are return journeys. pick-ups must be booked and paid for no less than 28 days prior to departure. Taxi’s which are used on a Bank Holiday will incur a 25% increase per person.

Index BRITISH ISLANDS & COASTAL

PAGE 8 - 22

NEW THIS YEAR Exploring Devon & Cornwall Warners: Lakeside Coastal Village Warners: Corton Coastal Village

THEMED BREAKS

PAGE 23 - 33

NEW THIS YEAR Classic & Vintage Transport Rally Kynren: An Epic Tale of England Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh

SHORTER STAYS

28 30 32

PAGE 34 - 42

NEW THIS YEAR Skills Party Break in Harrogate 4* Romantic England: Worcester & Stratford-upon-Avon Yorkshire Explorer: Leeds & York

SPECIAL EVENTS

17 22 22

34 36 42

PAGE 43 - 48

EUROPE & BEYOND

NEW THIS YEAR Northern Italy Featuring The Sodevolo Passion Play The Heart of Europe: Vienna, Budapest & Prague Disneyland Paris Featuring Paris Explorer

MORE THAN COACHING

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

43 44 46 47

54 63 71

PAGE 77 - 81

Cruise & Maritime Voyages introduction Faroes & Northern Isles Grand British Isles Discovery

HOLIDAYS BY AIR

77 78 80 PAGE 82

Guensey by Air Jersey by Air

82 82

HOTEL KEY Seafront Hotel

Restaurant

Entertainment

Indoor Pool

Lift

Bar

Free Wi-Fi

Spa/Wellbeing

TRAVEL DURATION*

The Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo Bristol Harbour Festival Hampton Court Flower Show & Waterperry Gardens Ladies Day at Royal Ascot

PAGE 49 - 76

DEPOSIT (per person)

Coach holidays of 2 days or less

£30

Coach holidays of 3-8 days

£50

Coach holidays of 9 days or more

£70

At the time of purchasing a package holiday you will need to pay a deposit for each person named on the booking. *Depending on your travel duration. Deposits may increase when booking breaks with attractions and entrances.

5

Holiday Planner JANUARY Sa 4 Sa 11 Sa 18 Sa 18

Sa 25

Sa 25

4* Sparkling Spa Break or Cardiff Break Skills Party Break in Chester Imperial War Museum & Bletchley Park Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh Winter Wonderland on the Swiss Glacier Express Skills Mini Cruise Party to Amsterdam

FEBRUARY Sa 1 Fr 7 Sa 8 Th 13 Th 13 Fr 14 Mo 17 Fr 21 Sa 29

DAYS PAGE

2 2 2

36 34 41

2

32

7 3

64 70

DAYS PAGE

Skills Party Break in Harrogate 4* Liverpool City Break Railways & Waterways of Lancashire Disneyland Paris & Paris Explorer Valentine’s in Central Paris Valentine’s Sailing to Romantic Bruges All-Inclusive Stay at the Lake District Rhineland Carnivals Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh

2 2 2 4 4 3 5 5

34 35 38 71 67 69 24 71

2

32

APRIL We 1 Sa 4

Sa 4

Su 5

Th 9 Fr 10 Fr 10 Sa 11 Sa 11

Fr 17 Sa 18 Sa 18

Su 19 Mo 20 Mo 20 Sa 25 Su 26 Mo 27 Th 30

DAYS PAGE

Exploring Devon & Cornwall 5 Rose Gardens & Tulips at Waddeson Manor 2 Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh 2 Belfast: Titanic Experience & the Giant’s Causeway 5 Easter on the Isle of Man 5 Easter in Eastbourne 4 Easter Bluebells at Kew Gardens 4 Settle to Carlisle Railway: Easter Special 3 Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh 2 Keukenhof Gardens Mini Cruise 3 Severn Valley Railway & Shrewsbury 2 Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh 2 Spanish Mini Cruise & Stay 5 Jersey By Air 5 Croatia: Dubrovnik, Split & Plitvice Lakes 13 Harrogate Flower Show 2 Golden Italy: Genoa, Pisa & Lucca 8 Spring in Bloom: Evesham Blossom Trail 5 Rhine in Flames 7

MAY

MARCH Sa 7 Sa 7 Fr 13 Mo 16 Tu 17 We 18 Fr 20 Sa 21 Sa 21

Mo 23

Tu 24 Sa 28

Mo 30

DAYS PAGE

Settle to Carlisle Railway Sparkling Spa Break Ostend, Bruges & Ghent Canary Islands & Madeira Mini Cruise: Jersey Boys Mini Cruise: Northern Soul & Motown 4* Liverpool City Break Imperial War Museum & Bletchley Park Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh Exploring the Cotswolds Featuring Antique Hunting Experience Spring on the Lakes Como & Maggiore Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh All-Inclusive Llanberis: Llandudno & Portmeirion

2 2 4 16 3 3 2 2

39 34 74 81 69 69 35 41

2

32

5 8

28 51

2

32

5

24

6 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Fr 1 Sa 2 Su 3 Mo 4 Fr 8 Fr 8 Sa 9

Th 14 Tu 19 We 20 We 20 Fr 22 Sa 23 Tu 26 Sa 30

40 32 15 26 27 27 26 32 69 39 32 69 82 58 45 49 25 72

DAYS PAGE

Guernsey By Air Llandudno’s Victorian Extravaganza Oban, Isle of Mull & Ancient Iona Hebridean Island Adventure Grand British Isles Discovery Settle to Carlisle Railway The Heart of Europe: Vienna, Budapest & Prague Faroes & the Northern Isles The Marvellous Rhine Valley RHS Chelsea Flower Show RHS Chelsea Flower Show & Kew Highlights of Corfu Treasures of Tuscany Majestic Fjordland Scottish Wildlife Experience

JUNE Mo 1 Th 4 Fr 5 Fr 5 Sa 6 Su 7 Mo 8 Fr 12 Sa 13 Su 14

17

6 3 6 7 12 2

82 47 9 75 80 39

10 7 7 2 3 15 9 8 6

63 80 73 45 45 55 53 81 23

DAYS PAGE

Paignton & The English Riviera Lake Garda, Venice & Verona Discovering Wartime Kent Thames Tales River Cruise Costa Brava, Barcelona & Girona Jersey By Air Mini Cruise: St Malo 4* Liverpool City Break Orkney & The Castle of Mey Yorkshire Explorer: Leeds & York

5 9 3 4 9 7 3 2 6 3

17 50 29 32 56 82 69 35 8 42

Holiday Planner JUNE

DAYS PAGE

Tu 16 British Isles Discovery 12 79 We 17 Channel Island Explorer 7 19 We 17 Ladies Day at Royal Ascot 3 47 Wed 17 Ladies Day at Royal Ascot 2 47 We 17 Ostend, Bruges & Ghent 4 74 We 24 Puy du Fou: The Best Living History Park In The World 5 68 Fr 26 Bath, Stonehenge & Salisbury 3 42 Fr 26 Mini Cruise: Bruges 3 69 Mo 29 Enchanting Eastbourne 5 21 JULY Fr 3 Fr 3 Sa 4 Sa 4 Mo 6 Sa 11 Sa 11 Su 12 Mo 13 Tu 14 We 15 We 15 Fr 17 Sa 18 Sa 18 Mo 20 Sa 25

Mo 27 We 29 Th 30

DAYS PAGE

4* Liverpool City Break Wine & Witches in the Ribble Valley Railways & Waterways of Yorkshire Mini Cruise: Amsterdam Jersey By Air RHS Hampton Court Flower Show Inner Hebridean Island Hopper Potters Resort Little Trains & Boats of the Rhine Valley Best of Berlin & Warsaw Guernsey By Air Northumbria Explorer & Farne Islands Bristol Harbour Festival 4* London City Break Classic & Vintage Transport Rally Isle of Wight Classic Cambridge & Imperial War Museum, Duxford Pembrokeshire Coastlines Normandy’s Coastlines West Country Cruise & Steam

AUGUST Sa 1 Sa 1 Th 6 Fr 7 Fr 7 Fr 7 Sa 8 Sa 8 Mo 10 Mo 10

Th 13 Th 13 Th 13 Fr 14 Mo 17 Th 20 Fr 21 Fr 21

3 3 2 3 6 2 7 6 5 9 6 5 3 3 2 7

35 33 38 70 82 46 75 76 61 60 82 11 44 35 28 14

2 5 5 5

41 12 74 18

DAYS PAGE

Summer at Kew Gardens BBC Countryfile Live at Blenheim Palace Rhine in Flames Bristol International Balloon Fiesta The Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo 4* London City Break Baltic Explorer & Best of St. Petersburg Normandy’s Coastlines The Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo Kent: Canterbury & Herne Bay Featuring Call The Midwife The Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo Canal Festival Amsterdam Brussels Flower Carpet 4* Liverpool City Break The Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo The Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo Channel Island Explorer Three Country Celtic Carousel

2 2 7 3 3 3 15 5 3

40 46 72 44 43 35 65 74 43

5 4 4 4 2 3 5 7 8

29 43 66 67 35 43 43 19 76

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

AUGUST Su 23 Mo 24 Tu 25 Fr 28 Fr 28 Sa 29 Sa 29 Mo 31

Treasures of Tuscany Warner: Lakeside Coastal Village Northern Italy & Sordevolo Passion Play Bath, Stonehenge & Salisbury Kynren: An Epic Tale of England Settle to Carlisle Railway Railways & Waterways of Yorkshire Enchanting Eastbourne

SEPTEMBER We 2 Fr 4 Fr 4

Fr 4 Su 6 Su 6 We 9 Th 10 Th 10 Fr 11 Su 13 We 16 Th 17 Sa 19

Sa 19 Mo 21 Th 24 Sa 26 Sa 26

9 5 8 3 3 2 2 5

53 22 54 42 30 39 38 21

DAYS PAGE

British Isles Discovery Vintage Trains of North Wales 4* Romantic England: Worcester & Stratford-upon-Avon 4* Slovenia: Zagreb & Postojna Caves Exploring Portugal Isles of Scilly Guernsey By Air Ostend, Bruges & Ghent Rhine in Flames 4* Liverpool City Break Jersey By Air Costa Brava, Barcelona & Girona 4* Tyrolean Experience Stepping Back in Time: Salute to the 40’s Vintage Festival Harrogate Flower Show Paignton & The English Riviera Rhineland Wine Festival Malvern Autumn Show Oxford Featuring Inspector Morse & Midsomer Murders Cruise

OCTOBER Fr 2

Fr 2 Su 4

Mo 5 Mo 5 Mo 5 Fr 9 Sa 10 Sa 10 Su 11 We 14 Sa 17 Sa 17 Mo 19 Mo 19 Tu 27 Sa 31

DAYS PAGE

14 5

79 31

3 13 12 7 6 4 5 3 7 9 8

36 59 57 20 82 74 72 35 82 56 62

3 2 5 5 2

37 45 17 73 46

2

37

DAYS PAGE

Valkenburg & Lights of Liege Nocturnal Festival 4* Liverpool City Break 4* Western Irish Experience: Cliffs of Moher, Galway & Birr Castle Exploring Devon & Cornwall Warner: Corton Coastal Village Singles: The Italian Dolomites Isle of Man Railways & Waterways of Lancashire Severn Valley Railway & Shrewsbury The Marvellous Rhine Valley Beautiful Sardinia & Tuscan Delights Imperial War Museum & Bletchley Park Lake Garda, Venice & Verona Jacobite Steam & Cruise Potters Resort Autumn Colours in Cumbria Halloween Ghost Walk Special with Simon Entwistle

4 2

66 35

4 5 5 8 5 2 2 7 13 2 9 5 5 5

16 17 22 53 13 38 39 73 52 41 50 10 76 11

2

33 7

NEW Orkney & the Castle of Mey

Dunrobin Castle © Hanskwaspen

Discover panoramic Scottish views, captivating landscapes, bountiful wildlife and over 5000 years of history on our adventure to Orkney and the Castle of Mey! Our spellbinding break will include a guided tour of the Orkney Isles, and visits to Skara Brae, Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar.

Day 1 – We head north through the stunning British landscape and rolling countryside to our overnight hotel in Perth.

Day 2 – After a leisurely morning, we take you to Dunrobin Castle, situated on the east coast of the Northern Highlands, overlooking the Moray Firth. It is the most northerly of Scotland’s great houses and has seen the architectural influences of Sir Charles Barry, who designed the Houses of Parliament. Later today we continue our journey to our hotel in Castletown for a 3-night stay.

Day 3 – Today, enjoy a voyage of discovery on a guided coach tour of the magical Orkney Islands. Cameras at the ready, because you will have the opportunity to see the World Heritage sites of Skara Brae, Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar, as well as Scapa Flow, home of the British Royal Navy in both

INCLUDES

Return coach travel 5 nights half board Entrance to Dunrobin Castle & The Castle of Mey World Wars.

Visits to Inverness & John o’ Groats Full day excursion to the Orkney Islands with a local guide covering the World Heritage Sites of Day 4 – Today we visit Castle Mey & Gardens, one the much-adored homes of Scara Brae, Stones of Stenness & the Queen Mother, who saved it from ruin the Ring of Brodgar, Skaill House and Scapa Flow in 1952. With glorious views across the HOTEL 3 Pentland Firth towards Orkney, the castle Castletown Hotel, Castletown is kept as it was when the Queen Mother was in residence. On our way back to the hotel, we enjoy a brief stop at John o’ Situated close to Thurso this popular family-run hotel is the Groats, a Highland village known for its perfect choice for our stay to explore northern Scotland. dramatic, unspoilt scenery and fascinating wildlife.

Day 5 – After breakfast we make our way to Inverness – the largest town and cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands – here, we enjoy free time before travelling to our overnight hotel in Perth for a 1-night dinner, bed and breakfast stay.

Day 6 – We return home to the East Midlands.

DATE

Sat 13 June

8 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

6

£699

Single Room Supplement

£89

Travel Insurance

£26

Oban, Isle of Mull & Ancient Iona

Tobermory, the Isle of Mull © e55evu

Get ready for an enchanting adventure, as we take you on a picturesque Scottish Highland journey. Based in the town of Oban, we will ride the cable car up Aonach Mor and experience breath taking views. Travel to the rugged Island of Mull and visit Fort William and Inveraray.

Day 1 – After an early departure, sit back and relax as we travel to our hotel in Oban.

Day 2 – We make our way to Fort William, at the foot of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Today we have included a cable car ride up to Aonach Mor, this ‘mountain gondola’ is the only one of its kind in Britain and the journey allows for breathtaking views of Glencoe, Ben Nevis and, on a clear day, even the Isle of Skye.

Day 3 – After breakfast explore Oban, the ‘Seafood Capital of Scotland’. Oban is a wonderful place to spend the day. For stunning views head to ‘McCraig’s Tower’, this ‘Colosseum’ lookalike stands proudly above Oban and provides views over the town.

Day 4 – Today, after an early start, we set sail to the Isle of Mull, from where we take a scenic drive to Fionnphort to catch a foot passenger ferry over to the unique island of Iona. Only 3 miles long and 1 mile wide, Iona is steeped in magnificent Scottish history which you can explore

in Iona Abbey. The small graveyard next to the abbey is also thought to be the final resting place of 48 medieval kings of Norway, Ireland and Scotland, including the 11th century King Macbeth! After some free time, we return to Fionnphort and head to Tobermory, the capital of Mull to enjoy free time. Tobermory was built as a fishing port in the late 18th century and is now a picture-postcard of a place, with brightly painted buildings along the main street towards the pier surrounded by high woodland-fringed hills. After a fantastic day we return to the hotel for a late dinner.

Day 5 – Today we take you to Inveraray, the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, who founded the town in 1745. It is home to Inveraray Castle, a unique piece of architecture, Dukes Bell Tower and Inverary Jail, an award-winning 19th century prison where you can interact with costumed prisoners, watch courtroom trails or even go to jail!

INCLUDES Return coach travel 5 nights half board Visits to Fort William & Inveraray Cable car ride up Aonach Mor from Nevis Range Mountain Resort Excursion to the Isle of Mull & Iona (passengers who do not wish to go can enjoy free time in Oban)

Free time in Oban

HOTEL 3 Muthu Alexandra Hotel, Oban

Situated on the Corran Esplanade with panoramic views of Oban Bay and the island of Kerrera, the hotel is less than a mile from McCaig’s Tower. Every room is equipped with en suite facilities with a hairdryer and free toiletries. Guests will find a flatscreen TV and tea/coffee making facilities in their room, where chocolates or cookies are also provided.

Day 6 – We retrace our footsteps home.

DATE

Sun 3 May

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

6

£509

Single Room Supplement

£109

Travel Insurance

£26

9

NEW Jacobite Steam & Cruise H OT E

ERTA L ENT

INME

NT

Glenfinnan Railway Viaduct with train © Marcin_Kadziolka

‘All Aboard’ the Jacobite for the ‘Greatest Railway Journey in the World’! Bring your cameras along as we also travel past Britain’s highest mountain and along the deepest freshwater loch before taking a voyage along the mysterious Loch Ness. We also include visits to Mallaig, Fort William, Inverness and Oban.

Day 1 – Today we will enjoy a leisurely journey to Fort William.

Day 2 – After breakfast we take a short walk to board the Jacobite Steam Railway to Mallaig – described as the ‘Greatest Railway Journey in the World!’ This section of the West Highland Line crosses the mighty Glenfinnan Viaduct, which was used in the Harry Potter films. At the end of the line, we arrive in Mallaig where we will enjoy a couple of hours at leisure. This busy fishing port is home to many shops, bars and restaurants with plenty of fish and chips to be enjoyed in the pleasant atmosphere. Later, we return to Fort William for free time.

Day 3 – This morning we enjoy a couple of hours in Inverness, a friendly city located in the heart of the beautiful Scottish Highlands. Afterwards, we travel to Clansman Harbour* where we

have arranged a circular cruise around the deep, mysterious waters of Loch Ness. From here you can even enjoy the breathtaking sight of the historic Urquhart Castle while keeping an eye out for monsters!

Day 4 – After breakfast explore Oban, the ‘Seafood Capital of Scotland’. Oban is a wonderful place to spend the day. For stunning views head to McCaig’s Tower, which stands proudly above the town and provides wonderful views.

INCLUDES Return coach travel 4 nights half board Hotel entertainment on 2 nights Journey on the Jacobite Steam Railway Cruise on Loch Ness Excursions to Mallaig, Inverness & Oban

HOTEL 3 Alexandra Hotel, Fort William

Just a 5-minute drive from the foot of Ben Nevis Britain’s highest mountain, our hotel features an open-fire in the lounge. Rooms are spacious and have a private bathroom with a selection of toiletries, TV and tea and coffee making facilities.

Day 5 – After a memorable stay we retrace our footsteps home. *Please note: There is a short walk from the coach park to the embarkation point.

This involves 15 steps and a narrow dirt path.

DATE

Mon 19 October

10 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£459

Single Room Supplement

£69

Travel Insurance

£23

Northumbria Explorer Featuring Farne Islands E FA R N

IS

S CR LAND

UISE

INCLUDES Return coach travel 4 nights half board Excursions to Berwick-upon-Tweed, Bamburgh & Alnwick Admission to the Roman Army Museum at Hadrian’s Wall & Bamburgh Castle A cruise around the Farne Islands with a visit to the Inner Farne

HOTEL 3 Ramada Encore, Newcastle-Gateshead Located close to the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, this modern hotel has comfortable bedrooms and a stylish on-site restaurant, bar and free Wi-Fi throughout.

Bird colonies at the Farne Islands in Northumberland © Hardyuno

Day 1 – We visit the cathedral city of Durham for free time. We then we visit the Angel of the North for a photo opportunity before continuing to our hotel in Gateshead.

Day 2 – We drive to Berwick-upon-Tweed, a peaceful riverside town surrounded by Elizabethan walls, which were built to keep invading Scots out! Afterwards we visit Bamburgh where we have included admission into Bamburgh Castle.

Day 3 – This morning we visit Alnwick, dominated by its stunning castle.

Day 4 – After breakfast we visit Seahouses where we enjoy a cruise around the Farne Islands. On our tour we will view sea birds on the cliff faces, see the grey seal colonies and follow the route Grace Darling and her father took during their heroic ship rescue in 1838. We will also enjoy a one hour break on Inner Farne, the largest of the Farne Islands, before heading back to our hotel.

Day 5 – Before returning home, we visit Hadrian’s Wall.

Please note: All rooms have walk in showers.

DATE

Wed 15 July

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£419

Single Room Supplement

£109

Travel Insurance

£23

NEW Autumn Colours in Cumbria Featuring Dumfries H OT E

L EN

INM T E RTA

E N T*

INCLUDES Return coach travel 4 nights half board Hotel entertainment on 2 nights Welcome tea or coffee on arrival Visits to Skipton, Lancaster, Dumfries & Carlisle Entrance to Caerlaverock Castle Visit to the Lakes Distillery with a tour & tasting

HOTEL 3 Gretna Hall Hotel, Gretna Green

Caerlaverock Castle, Dumfries © Theasis

Day 1 – We visit Skipton before making our way to the borders.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Keswick. A scenic drive follows as we make our way to The Lakes Distillery, where we have planned a tour and tasting for you and of course no tour would be complete without some spirit sampling! Enjoy up to 5 spirits in the atmospheric Cask Warehouse.

Day 3 – We spend the day in Carlisle, the historic border town situated by Hadrian’s wall.

Day 4 – After some free time to explore Dumfries, we have included admission into Caerlaverock Castle. With its moat, twin towered gatehouse and imposing battlements, this awe-inspiring castle – although ruined – is the epitome of the medieval stronghold and one of the finest castles in Scotland.

Day 5 – We will enjoy a comfort stop in Lancaster before continuing home.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Situated on 10 acres of landscaped gardens within the village of Gretna Green, the 18th century hotel offers both traditional and modern en suite rooms. Full of history, Gretna Hall was built in 1710 and is next to the Blacksmith’s Courtyard where many marriages are held. The rooms at Gretna Hall Hotel feature tea/ coffee facilities, a TV and free toiletries.

DATE

Tue 27 October

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£349

Single Room Supplement

£39

Travel Insurance

£23

11

Pembrokeshire and Its Marvellous Coastlines Featuring The Gwili Railway JOUR

NEY O

N

WIL THE G

WAY I RAIL

North Beach, Tenby © Luke Manley

Discover a beautiful corner of the UK on our fantastic break to Pembrokeshire. Explore spectacular coastlines, gorgeous gardens, castles and picturesque towns with a guided tour of Picton Castle and Gardens, and a journey on the romantic Gwili Railway.

Day 1 – We travel directly to the enchanting 13th century Ivy Bush Hotel in Carmarthen.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Picton Castle and Gardens for a guided tour.

The castle is surrounded by a 40-acre RHS Partner Garden which is home to one of the best plant collections in Wales. Later we travel the short distance to St David’s, the smallest town in Britain. Situated within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, St David’s is renowned for its beauty and abundance of wildlife.

Day 3 – After breakfast we travel to the charming walled town of Pembroke for free time. Dating back over 900 years, the town is most famous for its Norman castle, which is one of the most complete

INCLUDES Return coach travel 4 nights half board Guided tour of Picton Castle & Gardens Journey on the Gwili Railway Excursions to St David’s, Pembroke & Saundersfoot Free time in Carmarthen

in the Britain, and birthplace of Henry VI. Afterwards, we head to Saundersfoot, a village with an increasing reputation as a gourmet destination. Perhaps enjoy some local Pembrokeshire produce in one of HOTEL 3 the high-quality restaurants or cafés.

Ivy Bush Hotel, Carmarthen Day 4 – Today we will be treated to a journey on the Gwili Railway, located in the village of Bronwydd. This standard gauge steam railway runs between Bronwydd Arms Station, Aberqwili Junction and Danycoed, and is named after the River Gwili alongside which is runs. We’ll pass through picturesque farmland and wooded hillsides, and then the afternoon at leisure.

The Ivy Bush Hotel commands a spectacular position at the gateway to west Wales, and was recently refurbished, offering a blend of old–world charm with modern facilities.

Day 5 – This afternoon we make our way back home.

DATE

Mon 27 July

12 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£409

Single Room Supplement

£59

Travel Insurance

£23

Isle of Man H OT E

E RTA L ENT

INME

NT

Port Erin, Isle of Man © Benkrut

The Isle of Man is a rugged, sea-bound kingdom that lies between Britain and Ireland. Discover with us, the rich medieval history, folk law legends and dark tales of smugglers, on our fabulous island adventure!

Day 1 – We cross the Irish Sea to Douglas, the main town and port of the island, which will be our base for the next 5 days.

Day 2 - This morning we visit Castletown.

Dating back to 1090, Castletown was originally the capital of the island for hundreds of years, and much of what the island is today started in this historic town.

Castle Rushen - one of the best‐preserved medieval castles in Europe, still dominates the town. After some time to explore, we travel to Port St. Mary, situated on the south-east of the Island. Here, we will find a pretty sandy sheltered beach and a small but busy yachting harbour with fishing and sailing boats regularly coming and going.

Our final visit is to glorious Port Erin, which offers superb coastal scenery and many fine walks.

Day 3 – Our first visit today is to Laxey, situated on the east coast. Here you can get an insight in to the island’s mining heritage and view the world’s largest working water wheel, Lady Isabella, which used to pump water out of the mines.

Afterwards, we visit Ramsey, the second largest town on the Island. Set against the magnificent backdrop of the North Barrule Hills, Ramsey boasts an impressive working harbour and one of the most impressive recreational spaces on the Isle of Man.

INCLUDES Return ferry sailings Coach travel throughout 4 nights half board Hotel entertainment on 2 nights Excursions to Laxey & Ramsey, Castletown, Port Mary & Port Erin

HOTEL 3 Chesterhouse Hotel, Douglas The Chesterhouse offers a unique experience for every traveller with an individual style and luxury that ranks amongst the best offered on the island.

Day 4 – Explore Douglas in your own time.

The beautiful promenade is lined with welcoming bars and restaurants and the high street is filled with a variety of shops giving you plenty to see and do.

Day 5 – After a wonderful stay, we retrace our footsteps back home

*Seaview rooms available on request, please mention at the time of booking. Tour is not suitable for people with walking difficulties DATE

Fri 9 October

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£429

Single Room Supplement

£69

Travel Insurance

£23

13

Isle of Wight

Ventnor beach © GordonBellPhotography

From truly stunning coastlines to unique experiences, the Isle of Wight is the perfect summer holiday destination surrounded by miles of golden beaches and crystal waters. Enjoy a slice of Great British history at Queen Victoria’s Osborne House, and visit Ventnor, Godshill, Ryde, Needles, Alumn Bay, Yarmouth and Cowes.

Day 1 – Travelling south we sail across to the Isle of Wight.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Ventnor, one of Britain’s most famous Victorian health resorts due to its unique micro-climate.

Later, we travel to Godshill, a quintessential English village that boasts some of the oldest architecture on the island.

Day 3 – We travel to Ryde, the largest town on the island, which offers an expanse of sandy beaches and has a great selection of boutique shops, museums and galleries for you to enjoy. This afternoon we arrive at Osborne House, one of the most visited houses in Britain, originally designed by Queen Victoria’s beloved Prince Albert.

Set in acres of beautiful grounds and ornamental rose gardens, it’s easy to see why the house was one of Queen Victoria’s favourite places.

Day 4 – Enjoy the day at leisure; Sandown sits on the southern coast of the Isle of Wight, sheltered in a beautiful bay and renowned for its stretches of golden sandy beaches. Why not visit the local zoo – built within the ruins of a Victorian fort – or

enjoy a peaceful walk along the Esplanade until you reach Yaverland Beach, regarded as one of the best on the island.

INCLUDES Return coach travel Return ferry sailing 6 nights half board Excursions to Ventnor, Godshill, Ryde, The Needles, Alumn Bay, Yarmouth & Cowes Entrance to Osborne House Free time in Sandown

HOTEL 3 Day 5 – After breakfast we visit the iconic Needles, one of the most photographed The Wight Bay Hotel, Sandown groups of rocks in the world, before continuing to Alum Bay, renowned for its multi-coloured sand cliffs and stunning This family-friendly property is a short walk from Sandown Pier views across the Solent. Afterwards, we and the sandy beach. The hotel boasts a bar and restaurant take you to Yarmouth for free time. The along with tea and coffee making facilities in each room. historic port town sits at the mouth of the River Yar and contains some of the oldest architecture on the Isle of Wight, including Sea view rooms available at an additional supplement. a 16th century castle. Later, we will enjoy a scenic drive back to the hotel.

Day 6 – This morning we visit Cowes, a town with a pedestrianised high street and a wealth of specialty shops, art galleries and boutiques. Head to the seafront where a short walk will take you to the Esplanade and along to the famous Royal Yacht Squadron. Later, we return to our hotel for an afternoon at leisure.

Day 7 – We bid a fond farewell to the island and return home.

14 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Mon 20 July

DAYS

PRICE FROM

7

£499

Single Room Supplement

£60

Travel Insurance

£26

Belfast: Titanic Experience & Giants Causeway TG EXPER

UIDED

TO

F BE UR O

L FA ST

© Titanic Discovery

Now is the time to visit Belfast, home to world-class museums and a powerful shipbuilding history. On our great-value break discover the extraordinary true story of the RMS Titanic, with included admission into the Titanic Experience – the world’s largest Titanic visitor attraction! We’ve also included a guided tour around Belfast and an optional excursion to Giant’s Causeway Day 1 – We travel to our four-star hotel near Belfast.

Day 2 – We will be met by an experienced, local guide for a tour of Belfast – a great way to discover the history, the people and the stories that helped shape this remarkable city. During our tour we will explore landmarks like the City Hall and Peace Wall, as well as the Cathedral Quarter and the Albert Clock. Later, this afternoon you can enjoy the rest of the day in your own time.

Day 3 – After breakfast we visit Titanic Belfast. Recently named the World’s Leading Tourism Attraction, it’s a stateof-the-art interactive exhibition built on the site where the Titanic was originally built over 100 years ago. Uncover the true story of the Titanic from her conception in Belfast in the early 1900s through to her famous maiden voyage to her tragic sinking and rediscovery.

Day 4 – Enjoy free time today. You could join us for an optional excursion to the Giant’s Causeway.* Enjoy a journey along the Antrim Coastal Road – one of the most famous roads in the world before we reach the stunning Giant’s Causeway.

After some free time, we continue to Ballycastle. This pretty harbour town marks the eastern end of the Causeway Coast.

Giant’s Causeway is an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, that has been attracting visitors for centuries.

Steeped in myth and legend it was recently awarded the UKs Best Heritage Attraction at the British Tourism Awards.

Admission includes entrance to the Visitor Centre.

INCLUDES Return coach travel Ferry sailings 4 nights half board Guided tour of Belfast Free time in Belfast Entrance to Belfast’s Titanic Quarter *Optional Excursion to Giant’s Causeway & Ballycastle £15 per person

HOTEL 4 La Mon Hotel & Country Club, Belfast Set in the Castlereagh Hills, surrounded by the beautiful countryside of County Down, our four-star hotel boasts luxury accommodation in a peaceful, tranquil location with awardwinning cuisine and an impressive health club. Guests can also enjoy use of the Country Club and Spa. Wheelchair accessible throughout.

Please note: This optional excursion must be booked at the time of booking. Price doesn’t include shuttle bus, this is an additional £1 per person, per way.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home.

DATE

Sun 5 April

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£399

Single Room Supplement

£149

Travel Insurance

£30

15

4* Western Irish Experience: Cliffs of Moher, Galway & Birr Castle

Cliffs of Moher © Rainbow79

INCLUDES The West Coast encapsulates some of the finest and most dramatic aspects of the Return ferry sailing Irish landscape and during our stay you can experience firsthand the alluring beauty for yourself. With excursions to the Cliffs of Moher, admission into Birr Castle Gardens Coach travel throughout 3 nights half board & Science Centre and visits to Athlone and Dublin.

Admission to the Cliffs of Moher & Birr Castle Gardens & Science Centre Day 1 – Enjoy a relaxing journey as we cross Day 3 – After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy Free time in Galway & Athlone the Irish Sea and make for our 4* hotel in free time in Athlone before we visit Birr Westmeath.

Day 2 – Enjoy the stunning views at the Cliffs of Moher this morning, which stand high above the Atlantic coast. On a clear day you can see the Aran Islands, Galway Bay and the Twelve Pins. The Cliffs are one of the most visited natural attractions in Ireland, and capture the hearts of all who experience such astonishing views. After a little free time, we travel to Galway, a vibrant harbour city on Ireland’s west coast where we spend the remainder of the day.

Castle Gardens & Science Centre later this afternoon. Originally landscaped in the 18th century by Sir William Parsons, Birr Castle Gardens is one of the largest of its kind in Ireland and is famed for its sheer beauty and unusual landscape.

HOTEL 4 Athlone Springs Hotel, Athlone On the edge of Athlone, our award-winning hotel boasts spacious and stylish bedrooms and fantastic leisure facilities which include a sauna, spa bath, and steam room.

Day 4 – We continue our journey home.

DATE

Sun 4 October

16 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£369

Single Room Supplement

£49

Travel Insurance

£30

Exploring Devon & Cornwall AN ENTR

CE IN

TO

DEN THE E

P ROJ

EC T

INCLUDES Return coach travel 4 nights half board Excursions to Looe, Torquay, Cockington, Liskeard Admission into the Eden Project & RHS Garden Rosemoor

HOTEL 4 Jurys Inn Plymouth Jurys Inn Plymouth is situated in the heart of the city centre. The well-appointed and comfortable bedrooms provide TV’s and tea and coffee making facilities. Guestrooms with walk-in showers are available upon request

Looe © Acceleratorhams

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel in central Plymouth, with comfort breaks on the way.

Day 2 – After a leisurely morning we visit the seaside town of Looe.

Day 3 – Exploring Devon: We visit Torquay, a traditional yet thriving seaside town set on Torbay, the English Riviera. Later, we travel to Cockington, a picturesque village that oozes with history.

Day 4 – Exploring Cornwall: Today we visit the incredible Eden Project which houses the largest indoor rainforest in the world. Afterwards, we travel to Liskeard for the remainder of the day.

Day 5 – Before returning home we visit RHS Garden Rosemoor. Surrounded by woodland, the garden features inspiring displays including the largest rose garden in the south west, the stunning Hot Garden, Devon Cottage Garden and some bluebell carpeted woodlands.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Wed 1 April

5

£359

Mon 5 October

5

£359

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£129

Travel Insurance

£23

Paignton & the English Rivieria S EA

T HO F RO N

TEL

INCLUDES Return Coach travel 4 nights half board Excursions to Torquay, Exmouth & Sidmouth

HOTEL 3 Cambria Hotel, Paignton

Located on Paignton seafront, our hotel is perfectly placed for us to enjoy the magnificent views of Torbay.

Paignton Harbour ©

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel in Paignton enjoying leisurely breaks throughout.

Day 2 – We visit Torquay, the most elegant of the English Riviera resorts.

Day 3 – Explore Paignton at leisure today. Away from the award-winning beach you will find Paignton Zoo or why not enjoy an extra adventure on the Dartmouth Steam Railway & Riverboat (not included in your holiday package).

Day 4 – This morning we visit Exmouth, one of the oldest and most picturesque seaside towns in Devon. Later we head to Sidmouth for the remainder of the day. Sidmouth is a beautiful coastal town with a regency feel. Situated in a flat, sandy bay and surrounded by steep cliffs. Sidmouth has great shopping and attractive promenade, and all the traditional seaside diversions of a typical English resort.

Day 5 – After breakfast we bid a fond farewell and begin our journey home.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Mon 1 June

5

£329

Mon 21 September

5

£329

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£23

17

NEW West Country Cruise & Steam

INCLUDES

Vintage steam train © Danielrao

Discover the captivating West Country on our tour which features a Tiverton canal cruise, a cruise along the River Axe and a journey on the West Somerset Railway.

Day 1 – We head to the beautiful Georgian city of Bath, voted the best small city in Britain. Enjoy the stunning architecture and famous Roman Baths before we continue to our hotel in Tiverton.

Minehead. Here we will enjoy a nostalgic steam train journey through glorious Somerset courtesy of the West Somerset Railway, the longest heritage railway in England. At Bishops Lydeard our coach will be waiting to return us to Tiverton.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Sidmouth, the smartest and most exclusive seaside resort in Devon. With a flat promenade and thriving town centre, the morning will simply sail by. We then retrace our steps to Tiverton Wharf where we have arranged a cruise along the idyllic Grand Western Canal on the last horse-drawn barge trip in the South West – a little bit of ‘heaven’ in Devon!

Day 4 – We visit Exmouth for free time.

This afternoon we have arranged a River Exe circular cruise departing from the marina. Our cruise features live commentary on the sights, history and wildlife of the surrounding area, so all you have to do is sit back and relax.

Day 3 – After breakfast we visit the medieval village of Dunster before continuing to the coastal resort of

Return coach travel 4 nights half board Journey on the West Somerset Railway Cruise on Tiverton Canal & River Axe Excursions to Sidmouth, Dunster, Exmouth, Worcester & Bath

HOTEL 3 Best Western Tiverton Hotel Our hotel is situated on the outskirts of Tiverton and set in mature gardens. The spacious guest bedrooms are all en suite with tea and coffee making facilities.

Day 5 – After a leisurely morning we travel to Worcester. The city is best known for its magnificent cathedral, which rises majestically above the sparkling River Severn. After some free time, we continue our journey home.

DATE

Thu 30 July

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£469

Single Room Supplement

£69

Travel Insurance

£23

Please note: Images used are for marketing purposes only.

On the day your train may be a steam engine or a diesel locomotive.

18 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Channel Island Explorer MM R EC O

ENDE

D

LO H OT E

F CHO

ICE

INCLUDES

St Peter’s Port, Guernsey © Allard1

Just off the French Coast lie the British dependency Channel Islands, consisting of Jersey, Guernsey, Sark and Herm, where British and French influences make the islands a unique place.

Day 1 – Sit back, relax and enjoy the journey as we travel overland and by ferry to the Peninsula Hotel on the island of Guernsey. (Early departure due to sailing times.)

Day 2 – Today we have arranged for a local guide and coach to collect you from your hotel and whisk you away for a half day tour of the idyllic island. A great way to get your barings, this fun and energetic tour will provide you with great information about the island and includes leisurely stops at places of interest. Later today we travel across to Herm, a tiny island measuring just a mile and a half long, but steeped in history. Perhaps enjoy a leisurely walk around its scenic coastal paths, the gentle route takes you across the Common to the stunning shell beach.

Day 3 – After breakfast enjoy free time exploring Guernsey at your own pace. Why not hop on a local bus to St Peter Port to do a spot of shopping, or maybe you would prefer to join us on our optional excursion to Sark.* With no cars, the 600 residents

get around Sark by bicycle or horse and carriage. Our 2 hour carriage tour will showcase this truly unique island that no amount of words could do justice.

Day 4 – After breakfast we sail across to Jersey where we will enjoy another 3 night half board stay at the Merton Hotel.

Day 5 – This morning a local guide and coach will pick us up from our hotel and take us on a fascinating island tour.

Escorted by a Skills representative Return ferry sailings Coach travel throughout 3 nights half board stay in Guernsey 3 nights half board stay in Jersey Guided tours of Jersey & Guernsey Excursion to Herm *Optional excursion to Sark £79 per person

HOTEL 3 The Peninsula Hotel, Guernsey Set within 5-acres of gardens our hotel is located on a tranquil grassy peninsula, leading to a sandy bay in the peaceful Vale Parish.

HOTEL 3

The Merton Hotel, Jersey Day 6 – The largest of the Channel Islands, Jersey is a magnet for historians, Located close to the beach and just a short walk from St Helier, shopaholics and beach lovers alike. From our hotel boasts a unique Aquadome featuring indoor and magnificent castles and museums to fascinating wildlife, you can enjoy exploring outdoor pools, a sauna, steam room and hot tub.

Jersey at your own pace today. Some key sights include the Durrell Wildlife Park and the thought-provoking Jersey War Tunnels, a former WWII underground military base

Day 7 – We retrace our footsteps home.

(Late arrival due to sailing times.)

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Wed 17 June

7

£849

Fri 21 August

7

£849

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£179

Travel Insurance

£26

19

Isles of Scilly

INCLUDES

Isle of Scilly

Welcome to the Isles of Scilly, the outstandingly beautiful, uncrowded and unspoilt islands that are an idyllic place unlike anywhere else in Britain. With miles of untouched golden beaches, rugged uninhabited shorelines, shipwrecks and marine life, you can submerge yourself in a different kind of life.

Day 1 – After a leisurely lunch break in Stratford-upon-Avon we continue to our overnight accommodation - the 4* Copthorne in Plymouth.

Day 2 – After breakfast, we set sail to the Isles of Scilly. After settling in to your room, the rest of the day is yours to do as much or as little as you like. Our hotel is situated a short walk from the centre of Hugh Town, the central hub of the island and home to pretty churches and delightful cafés. You can enjoy the galleries, restaurants and local pubs as well as a wonderful museum and three lovely beaches. (Please note: Passengers will be accompanied by a Skills driver to and from the port there is then a short walk from the port to the hotel.

Maps on how to find the hotel will be offered.)

Day 3/5 – During the next three days, you are free to explore St Mary’s, the largest

island in the archipelago in your own time.

The coastline features large stretches of deserted white sandy beaches, dramatic rocky coves, stunning seascapes, amazing archaeological sites, beautiful walks and scenery along miles of coastal and country paths and natural trails. If you’re feeling adventurous perhaps catch a ferry to one of the neighbouring islands including: Tresco, St Martin’s and St Agnes and discover a little more of this incredible paradise.

Return coach transfers Return ferry crossings to St. Mary’s Port 1 night half board en route 1 night bed & breakfast en route 4 nights half board on the Isles of Scilly Visits to Stratford-upon-Avon & Worcester Free time on the Isles of Scilly

HOTEL 3 Tregarthen’s Hotel, St Mary’s

Overlooking St Mary’s harbour, our well appointed hotel features a high standard restaurant and bar. Rooms are en suite and include robes and tea and coffee making facilities. Many have seaviews.

Day 6 – This afternoon we return to Penzance where our coach will be waiting to take us back to Plymouth. Please note, due to the late arrival at the hotel dinner will not be included tonight.

Day 7 – Taking back wonderful memories, we retrace our footsteps home enjoying a leisurely lunch stop in Worcester.

DATE

Sun 6 September

20 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

7

£1,019

Single Room Supplement

£169

Travel Insurance

£26

Enchanting Eastbourne ON S EA F R

T H OT

EL

Beachy Head, Eastbourne © Nickos

INCLUDES

Enjoy the fresh sea air and a traditional seaside atmosphere on our sunny Sussex getaway. Eastbourne, famous for its flower gardens, pebble beaches and iconic chalk sea cliffs, is filled with great things to see and do. On our break you can enjoy the sights and attractions of the seafront promenade. We visit Beachy Head Britains highest chalk sea cliff and Brighton, Battle and Hastings.

Return coach travel 4 nights half board Free time in Eastbourne Excursions to Beachy Head, Brighton, Battle & Hastings

Day 1 – Enjoy a leisurely journey to the Cumberland Hotel in Eastbourne.

HOTEL 2

Day 2 – This morning we visit Beachy Head, famous for its views along the Seven Sisters landmark. After a photo opportunity we then travel to Brighton, where we will spend the remainder of the day. From the exotic Royal Pavilion to the new British Airways i360, Brighton has a wealth of attractions and no seaside day out would be complete without a visit to Brighton Palace Pier or Brighton Sea Life Centre, the World’s Oldest Aquarium.

Day 3 – Today you are free to explore as much (or as little) of Eastbourne as you like. Located on the seafront overlooking the famous flower decked promenade, bandstand and beautiful Victorian pier, our hotel is situated perfectly to help you get the most out of your free day. The

Eastbourne Lifeboat Museum and the Winter Gardens are a leisurely walk away or perhaps you’d prefer Eastbourne’s Miniature Steam Railway.

Day 4 – After breakfast we travel to Hastings for free time. To soak up the towns immense history maybe wander the preserved Old Town which lies in a valley between the East and West Hills, each with their own funicular railway.

Take the East Hill up to Hastings Country Park or the West Hill Lift to the ruins of Hastings Castle.* Later, we visit Battle, named after the most famous conflict on English soil, the Battle of Hastings, fought in 1066.

Cumberland Hotel, Eastbourne Situated in a whitewashed 19th century building opposite Eastbourne’s seafront and bandstand, this classic hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from Eastbourne Pier. The comfortable bedrooms have TV’s and tea and coffee making facilities.

Rooms with walk-in showers are available upon request (subject to availability)

*There is a charge to use the railways.

Day 5 – After a relaxing morning we begin our journey home.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Mon 29 June

5

£319

Mon 31 August

5

£319

DATE

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Single Room Supplement

£59

Travel Insurance

£23

21

NEW Warner: Lakeside Coastal Village NO SI

NGLE

LEM SUPP

ENT

INCLUDES Return coach travel 4 nights half board Entertainment every night Visits to Oxford & Winchester Free time to enjoy the resorts leisure facilities *Optional excursion to Portsmouth £15 per person, minimum numbers required **Optional excursion to Worthing & Chichester £20 per person, minimum numbers required

HOTEL 4 Warner Corton Coastal Village, Suffolk

© Warner: Lakeside Coastal Village

Day 1 – This morning we head to Oxford for a lunch stop before continuing to our Warners Resort.

Day 2 – Enjoy a full day at leisure in our lakeside resort. Bowls players will find the facilities excellent, there’s also putting, shuffle board and lake fishing. Don’t forget to visit the Leisure Club where you can unwind and relax in the sauna and steam room, then cool off in the indoor pool. An evening of fantastic food and entertainment follows every night.

Day 3 – After breakfast enjoy another day at leisure or join us for our optional excursion to Portsmouth.* Day 4 – Today you may choose to join us for an optional visit to Worthing & Chichester.** Day 5 – We will enjoy a leisurely lunch stop in Winchester, before continuing our journey home.

Our standard chalets provide everything under the sun to ensure a comfortable stay and a great night’s sleep. Crisp linen, simple but sweet décor and ambient lighting set the scene for a truly restful stay and make a fantastic base for exploring the local area.

INCLUDED IN YOUR CHALET: TV: En suite bathroom with towels: Tea & coffee making facilities: Biscuits replenished daily: Comfy chairs & reading lights: Hairdryer: Iron & ironing board: Safe DATE

Mon 24 August

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£369

Single Room Supplement

NIL

Travel Insurance

£23

Warner: Corton Coastal Village NO SI

N

UPP GLE S

LEME

NT

INCLUDES Return coach travel 4 nights half board Entertainment every night Visit to King’s Lynn Free time to enjoy the resorts leisure facilities *Optional excursion to Norwich £15 per person, minimum numbers required

**Optional excursions to Wroxham & Wymondham £10 per person, minimum numbers required

HOTEL 3

Warner Corton Coastal Village, Suffolk

© Warner Corton Coastal Village

Day 1 – We travel to Warner Corton Coastal Village via a sightseeing stop in Kings Lynn.

Day 2 – Enjoy a full day at leisure in our resort. After a morning of activities perhaps visit the leisure club where you can unwind and relax in the sauna and steam room or take a dip in the indoor swimming pool, before enjoying an evening of fantastic food and entertainment.

Day 3 – After breakfast enjoy more free time. Alternatively, you can join us for an optional excursion Norwich.* Day 4 – Today you can make the most of another day at leisure or join us for our optional excursion visiting Wroxham and Wymondham.** Day 5 – After breakfast we retrace our footsteps home.

22 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Set on the Suffolk coast near famous Southwold, Corton has all the easy atmosphere of a holiday home, with the creature comforts Warner Holiday Resorts are famous for. Built on a chalet theme, the rooms have a clapboard design with fresh pastel interiors, and many have terraces overlooking the sea.

Guests can have a snack in the Coffee Lounge or enjoy cabaret in The Boathouse.

DATE

Mon 5 October

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£299

Single Room Supplement

NIL

Travel Insurance

£23

Scottish Wildlife Experience H OT E

E RTA L ENT

INME

NT

INCLUDES

Scottish Highlands © FedevPhoto

Wonderful Scotland has a rich and diverse variety of wild creatures, home to around 90,000 different species. Whether you want to see a graceful soaring red kite in its natural habitat or sail alongside playful dolphins, on our holiday you can get you up close and personal with some of Scotland’s ‘wildest residents’!

Day 1 – We travel to Loch Lomond with comfort breaks along the way.

Day 2 – This morning we visit SEA LIFE Centre in Loch Lomond – for a delightful, ‘otterly adorable’ experience. We then enjoy a cruise along Lake Katrine before sitting down for a light lunch at The Lochside Café. This afternoon we will have the opportunity to see some majestic red kites up close from a “hide” at Argaty Red Kites, the only red kite feeding station in Scotland.

Day 3 – The village of Drymen sits in the hills at the western end of the Campsie Fells, overlooking the Endrick Water as it nears Loch Lomond. Enjoy free time today to explore this popular town.

Day 4 – After an early start we begin our day in North Berwick at the awardwinning Scottish Seabird Centre situated on the harbour and home to almost half of all of Europe’s seabirds. Inside you can control interactive live cameras on the

local islands to zoom in on the wildlife in its natural habitat! Afterwards, we have arranged a cruise from North Berwick to Bass Rock and Craigleith Cliffs – this unforgettable trip will take you closer than ever before to puffins, grey seals and dolphins all in their natural habitat.

On our way back to the hotel, we enjoy a short stop at The Kelpies, the world’s largest equine sculptures.

Day 5 – We head to the Perthshire highlands for a mountain safari. Arm yourself with your cameras and binoculars and climb aboard. We pass through a land sculptured by the elements and steeped in breathtaking views with no shortage of photo opportunities. You will also have the chance to come face to face with Britain’s largest native land mammal – the majestic red deer, and feed them in the safety of our Safari Ranger.

Return coach travel 5 nights half board Hotel entertainment on 3 nights Highland Perthshire Wildlife Mountain Safari & a chance to feed the red deer Wildlife cruise Visit to Seabird Discovery Centre Visit to the SEA LIFE Centre with an otter experience Lunch at The Lochside Café Observe red kites from a hide in Ardgay Free time in Drymen

HOTEL 3 The Winnock Hotel, Drymen Situated in the heart of Loch Lomond National Park, The Winnock Hotel is set in an 18th Century building and features an on-site bar and a restaurant serving British cuisine.

Please note: Due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for people with walking difficulties. We cannot guarantee animal sightings.

The order of days is subject to change.

Day 6 – We retrace our footsteps home.

DATE

Sat 30 May

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

6

£639

Single Room Supplement

£99

Travel Insurance

£26

23

NEW All Inclusive Stay at the Lake District INCLUDES Return coach travel 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast 3 soup and sandwich lunches 1 Packed lunch 3 x Drinks Vouchers pppd* (*max 2 can be used for alcoholic drinks)

Excursions to Skipton, Keswick, Ambleside, Kendal, Cartmel & Lancaster Free time in Grange-over-Sands

HOTEL 3

Cumbria Grand Hotel, Grange-over-Sands Keswick © AndyRoland

Day 1 – We visit Skipton on our way to Grange-over-Sands.

Day 2 – After collecting our packed lunch, we will enjoy visits to Keswick, Ambleside and Kendal. (approx. 2 hours free time will be allowed at each destination) Day 3 – This morning we visit the beautiful village of Cartmel, famous for its 12th century priory and home of the Sticky Toffee Pudding! Afterwards, we will return to the hotel to enjoy a light soup and sandwich lunch and an afternoon at leisure.

Day 4 – Enjoy free time to explore Grange-over-Sands, home to ornamental gardens, attractive shopping arcades and a seafront promenade. Later, there will be a soup and sandwich lunch served at the hotel before we head to Lancaster for the afternoon.

Day 5 – After lunch at the hotel we retrace our footsteps home.

The charming Cumbria Grand is set in 25-acres of gardens and woodlands and is within easy walking distance to the beach.

Many rooms have panoramic sea views over Morecambe Bay and beyond to the Yorkshire Dales.

DATE

Mon 17 February

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£299

Single Room Supplement

£69

Travel Insurance

£23

All Inclusive Llanberis: Llandudno & Portmeirion INCLUDES Return coach travel 4 nights All Inclusive Free tea & coffee throughout your stay Unlimited house beer, lager, wine or soft drinks (between 7pm – 11pm)

Hotel entertainment Excursions to Llandudno, The Great Orme, Betwsy-Coed, Llanrwst & Chester Admission into Portmeirion

HOTEL 3 The Royal Victoria hotel, Llanberis

Portmeirion © Richard Walker

Day 1 – Sit back and relax as we travel to The Royal Victoria Hotel in Llanberis.

Day 2 – We pick up our packed lunches and head to the seaside resort of Llandudno.

After free time we visit the Great Orme for a photo opportunity.

Day 3 – After breakfast we visit Betws-y-Coed. We spend the afternoon in Llanrwst, a little town that sits on the east bank of the River Conwy.

Day 4 – Today we visit Portmeirion, a unique village which was created by the architect Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1976 and is set on its own private peninsula.

We spend the afternoon at leisure in our hotel.

Day 5 – After breakfast we visit Chester before returning home.

24 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

The Royal Victoria Hotel is situated at the foot of Mount Snowdon, cradled between Lakes Llyn Padarn and Llyn Peries.

Comfortable rooms feature home comforts and the well stocked bar offers a relaxing environment to enjoy after dinner.

Walk in showers available on request (subject to availability).

DATE

Mon 30 March

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£329

Single Room Supplement

£40

Travel Insurance

£23

Spring in Bloom Featuring Evesham Blossom Trail RIVER

CRUIS

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INCLUDES

Couple walking outdoors © Halfpoint

Savour Spring in Bloom – from the tranquil banks of the River Avon to the peaceful Cotswolds. Evesham Vale offers some of the prettiest countryside in Britain. On our break you can experience the stunning Blossom Trail as the Vale erupts in a wonderous haze of colours from the delicate whites of the pear and plum to the radiant shades of pink from the cherry and apple blossoms.

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel via Stratford-upon-Avon, most famous as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. This thriving market town has more than 800 years of history for us to explore.

Day 2 – This afternoon we visit Royal Leamington Spa. The Regency town combines a treasure-trove of independent, specialist boutiques alongside high street brands.

Day 3 – We travel to the village of Badsey for free time. Perhaps visit the Wayside Farm Shop & Tea Rooms which makes specialist produce including jams, scones, chutneys, cakes and fudge! We then travel to Bretforton, the largest farming village around Evesham. The village is sprinkled with a range of pretty, historical buildings including a church dating back to the 13th

century. Afterwards we have organised a sightseeing cruise on the River Avon with cream tea on board.

Day 4 – This morning we visit Pershore, an unspoilt market town which is renowned for its independent shops and atmospheric market, which you can explore in your own time. Later, we will be joined by a knowledgeable guide who will accompany us on the Evesham Blossom Trail.

Return coach travel 4 nights half board Avon River cruise with cream tea Guided walk through Evesham Blossom Trail Excursions to Stratford-upon-Avon, Royal Leamington Spa, Badsey, Bretforton & Evesham Valley

HOTEL 3 Mercure Honiley Court Hotel, Honiley Originally built as a farmhouse, the hotel has been thoroughly modernised with every effort to conserve the building’s period features and historic character. The Boot Restaurant features original oak beams and the spacious bedrooms provide tea and coffee making facilities.

Day 5 – After a leisurely breakfast, we take you to The Valley. Set within 125-acres of stunning countryside, The Valley is a great shopping destination with a mix of designer brands and unique shops. Later, we continue home.

DATE

Mon 27 April

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£319

Single Room Supplement

£99

Travel Insurance

£23

25

Easter on The Isle of Man H OT E

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M RTA I N E T N E

E N T*

INCLUDES Return ferry sailing Coach travel throughout 4 nights half board Hotel entertainment on 2 nights Excursion to Laxey, Ramsey, Castletown, Port Mary & Port Erin

HOTEL 3 The Rutland Hotel, Douglas The Rutland Hotel is an elegant building featuring panoramic views across Douglas Bay. The hotel boasts a carvery restaurant and is located a short seafront stroll away from the town centre.

Please note: Hotel unsuitable for passengers with restricted mobility, there are 9 steps to get into the hotel and no wheelchair ramp.

There is a lift, but no ground floor rooms.

Peel Harbour, Isle of Man © Panmaule

Day 1 – We travel by coach and ferry to the Rutland Hotel in Douglas.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Castletown, the original capital of the Island. Later, we head to glorious Port Erin and Port Mary, which offer superb coastal scenery.

Day 3 – Our first visit is to Laxey situated on the east coast. Afterwards we visit Ramsey, the second largest town on the Island which is set against the magnificent backdrop of the North Barrule hills.

Day 4 – Explore Douglas in your own time. The beautiful promenade is lined with welcoming bars and restaurants and the town comes alive on Easter Sunday, perhaps catch one of the parades and enjoy the atmosphere.

Day 5 – After a ‘crackin’ stay’, we retrace our footsteps back home.

DATE

Thu 9 April

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£449

Single Room Supplement

£69

Travel Insurance

£23

Settle to Carlisle: Easter Special I N C LU

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NO AFTER

ON TE

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INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights half board Afternoon tea at hotel on Easter Sunday Journey on the Settle to Carlisle Railway Excursions to York & Harrogate

HOTEL 3 Shap Wells Hotel, Penrith

Located on the edge of the Lake District, Shap Wells offers spacious and comfortable rooms many with countryside views and free Wi-Fi. There is also a games rooms with a snooker table.

Wheelchair accessible. Walk-in showers are available upon request (subject to availability). © Settle to Carlisle Railway

Day 1 – We travel to Harrogate, one of Yorkshire’s most elegant destinations, for free time.

Day 2 – We’ve got an ‘egg-citing’ day for you today, as we head to Settle for our journey on the world-famous Settle to Carlisle Railway. Running through some of the most attractive scenery in the Yorkshire Dales and Cumbrian Fells, the Settle to Carlisle Railway is renowned for its Victorian architecture, huge stone viaducts and long tunnels. Later, we’ve arranged an afternoon tea back at the hotel.

Day 3 – Before returning home we visit the medieval city of York.

26 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Please note: Images used are for marketing purposes only.

On the day your train may be a steam engine or a diesel locomotive.

DATE

Sat 11 April

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£189

Single Room Supplement

£49

Travel Insurance

£17

Easter in Eastbourne I N C LU

D ES

ST E A N EA

R EG G

INCLUDES Return coach travel 3 nights half board Hot cross bun on arrival Easter egg for each passenger on Easter Sunday Excursions to Kingston-upon-Thames, Beachy Head & Brighton Free time in Eastbourne

HOTEL 2 Cumberland Hotel, Eastbourne

Eastbourne © Arndale

Day 1 – We travel to Kingston-upon-Thames for a lunch break. Afterwards we continue our leisurely journey to Eastbourne.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Beachy Head, famous for its spectacular views of Eastbourne and the South Downs. After a photo opportunity we travel to Brighton for the remainder of the day.

Day 3 – Explore Eastbourne at leisure today. Enjoy a stroll around the award-winning Carpet and Seafront Gardens located by the pier. The gardens are the world-famous centrepiece of Eastbourne’s elegant seafront.

Day 4 – After a relaxing morning we retrace our footsteps home.

Situated in a whitewashed 19th century building opposite Eastbourne’s seafront and bandstand, this classic hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from Eastbourne Pier. The comfortable bedrooms have TV’s and tea and coffee making facilities.

Rooms with walk-in showers are available upon request (subject to availability).

DATE

Fri 10 April

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£249

Single Room Supplement

£49

Travel Insurance

£23

Easter Bluebells at Kew Gardens ENT

E IN RANC

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INCLUDES

Return coach travel 3 nights half board Admission in to Kew Gardens Visits to Camden Lock, Windsor, St Albans & Oxford

HOTEL 3 Holiday Inn, High Wycombe The stylish Holiday Inn provides comfortable accommodation with tea and coffee making facilities in each room.

Couple walking outdoors © Monkeybusinessimages

Day 1 – We visit Oxford for some free time before travelling to our hotel.

Day 2 – This morning we enjoy a visit to Windsor. After some free time, we travel to Camden Lock, one of London’s most vibrant shopping and entertainment areas.

Day 3 – After breakfast we visit the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, where the electric bluebells will be in full bloom. One of the nation’s most-loved wild flowers, today you can walk alongside the carpets of intense deep blue that sweep across the woodland.

Day 4 – Before heading home today we enjoy a couple of hours in historic St Albans.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Fri 10 April

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£239

Single Room Supplement

£59

Travel Insurance

£23

27

Exploring The Cotswolds Featuring Antique Hunting Experience UE ANTIQ

S DAY

W

S 15 TO £ H T I

PEND

INCLUDES Return coach travel 4 nights half board Welcome drink on arrival Excursions to Bourton-on-the-Water, Chedworth, Circencester & Worcester Antique hunting day in Stow-on-the-Wold with £15pp spending money Antique evaluation with tea/coffee at the hotel

HOTEL 3

Penyard House Hotel, Weston-under-Penyard Located in Weston-under-Penyard, Penyard House features a garden, terrace and sun terrace with Wi-Fi throughout.

Customers in antique shop © TommL

Day 1 – We enjoy a leisurely journey to our hotel today with welcome drinks on arrival.

Day 2 – After a morning at leisure we visit Bourton-on-the-Water.

Day 3 – Our first visit today is to Chedworth, an unspoilt village off the beaten track.

After some free time, we visit Cirencester.

Day 4 – After breakfast we travel to Tara Antiques in the delightful market town of Stow-on-the-Wold. Here, you will be given £15 per person to spend on an antique item of your choice. Choose wisely though, because this afternoon your purchases will be valued by our professional expert back at the hotel over a complimentary tea or coffee.

Day 5 – We visit Worcester before returning home. This historic city offers an attractive jumble of medieval, Tudor, Georgian and modern architecture.

DATE

Mon 23 March

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£329

Single Room Supplement

£49

Travel Insurance

£23

NEW Classic & Vintage Transport Rally at The British Ironwork Centre INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Excursions to Ludlow & the Classic & Vintage Transport Rally

HOTEL 3 The Telford Whitehouse Hotel The Telford Whitehouse Hotel boasts extensive health and leisure facilities and guests can enjoy the swimming pool, sauna, solarium, Jacuzzi and steam room.

Vintage car © Bill Chizek

Day 1 – We travel to Ludlow for free time. Crowned by the 11th century Ludlow Castle, situated on a cliff above the River Teme, Ludlow is an architectural gem, with over 800 years of history and a reputation for great food and drink.

Day 2 – After breakfast we head to the British Ironwork Centre & Shropshire Sculpture Park, a unique destination set in 60-acres, is the UK’s largest metal safari park with over 100 sculptures on display. Today, it will become home to the Classic & Vintage Transport Rally which attracts owners and enthusiasts from all over the country. After some free time, we return home.

28 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Sat 18 July

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£99

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£17

Kent: Canterbury & Herne Bay Featuring Call the Midwife CALL

THE

IFE M I DW

TO U R

INCLUDES Coach travel throughout 4 nights half board ‘Call The Midwife’ tour Canterbury river cruise Visits to Cambridge, Canterbury, Herne Bay, Chatham Docks & Faversham

HOTEL 3 Holiday Inn Rochester This modern hotel is ideally situated for our break and offers stylish bedrooms and friendly service.

Call the Midwife Tour © Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust

Day 1 – Our first destination today is Cambridge. Later, we travel to our hotel.

Day 2 – We visit Canterbury for a relaxing cruise along the peaceful River Stour which flows through the heart of the historic cathedral city. Afterwards, enjoy free time before we return to our hotel.

Day 3 – After a leisurely morning, we visit Herne Bay and Faversham for free time.

Day 4 – Today we visit Chatham Historic Dockyards, where our very own ‘midwife’ will DATE greet us on the WWII destroyer HMS CAVALIER to begin our “Call the Midwife Tour.”

The midwife will take you on a guided tour of the various film locations used in the Mon 10 August hit BBC Drama. Discover authentic cobbled streets and fine Georgian and Victorian Single Room Supplement architecture that have provided the backdrop for an array of period films since the 1980s, so presenting an ideal opportunity to follow the special film trail.

Travel Insurance Day 5 – We return to the East Midlands.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£369 £109 £23

Discovering Wartime Kent UNDE

RG RO

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INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights half board Admission into Dover Castle with ‘Underground Hospital Tour’ Admission into Canterbury Cathedral & Chatham Dockyard Canterbury cruise

HOTEL 4 Holiday Inn Sittingbourne Unwind at the Holiday Inn Sittingbourne with comfortable en suite rooms that have free Wi-Fi and tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a bar, restaurant and a complimentary fitness center.

Dover Castle, view from Great Tower © English Heritage

Day 1 – We head to Canterbury for free time. Here we can pay our respects to the Canterbury War Memorial – In 1919, a committee was formed for establishing a memorial to commemorate the men of Canterbury who fell in the Great War. We have admission to the cathedral and a river cruise.

DATE Day 2 – This afternoon we head to Dover Castle where we have included admission and Fri 5 June the guided Underground Hospital Tour. Let an expert English Heritage guide take you deep into the White Cliffs to explore the Underground Hospital in the Secret Wartime Tunnels.

Single Room Supplement Day 3 – This morning we visit Chatham Historic Dockyard, a maritime museum on part of Travel Insurance the site of the former Royal Navy dockyard at Chatham in Kent.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£239

Please note: Early start on day 2 due to guided tour arrangements.

£39 £17

29

Kynren: An Epic Tale of England SELL O

U T TO

UR

© Kynren Media

Kynren, an epic tale of England is a must-see spectacular open-air theatre show! As the sun sets, the action-packed show begins following 2000 years of English history, myth and legend, set against the magnificent backdrop of Auckland Castle.

Day 1 – We visit York, the most important historic city in the north. You will be spoiled for choice, with historic buildings, museums, river cruising and shopping all on offer. Later we continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – We visit the market town of Bishop Auckland, where you can wander the delightful cobbled streets and twisting lanes. After a little free time, we return to our hotel for an early evening meal before travelling to Bishop Auckland for tonight’s spectacular performance. As dusk falls, this action-packed show begins featuring, pyrotechnics, spectacular lighting, water effects and a cast of over 1000 local volunteers.

Day 3 – After breakfast we visit the traditional North Yorkshire market town of Thirsk. Essentially unchanged and uninfluenced by the world, Thirsk has a charm all of its own. The major attraction is the Wonderful World of James Herriot, a part TV set, part museum to the popular ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ drama series. Returning home after a memorable weekend.

INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights half board Excursions to York, Barnard Castle & Thirsk Entry to the KYNREN performance

HOTEL 4 Holiday Inn Washington The Holiday Inn Washington provides a friendly and comfortable night’s stay, with tea and coffee making facilities available in each bedroom.

DATE

Fri 28 August

30 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£219

Single Room Supplement

£49

Travel Insurance

£17

Vintage Trains of North Wales I N C LU

D ES 3

U AY J O R A I LW

RNEY

S

Snowdon Mountain Railway © JoeDunckley

Hop aboard our enchanting journey as we explore beautiful North Wales on some INCLUDES incredible vintage trains including the Ffestiniog Railway, Snowdon Mountain Railway Return coach travel & Llanberis Lake Railway. Escape the hustle and bustle as we weave through the 4 nights half board stunning countryside.

Excursion to Llangollen Day 1 – We visit Llangollen for free time.

Day 4 – Today we take a return journey Journey on the Ffestiniog Railway, Renowned for its surrounding hills and on the Snowdon Mountain Railway to the Snowdon Mountain Railway & the River Dee, this small town has a rooftop of Wales and, weather permitting, Llanberis Lake Railway Visit to the Great Orme Tramway wealth of independent shops to browse we will be rewarded with some fantastic and cafés to enjoy. Afterwards, we views. At 1,085ft, Mount Snowdon is the HOTEL 3 continue to our hotel. highest mountain in Wales! The Visitor The Beaches Hotel, Prestatyn Centre has a café and a gift shop for you Day 2 – This morning we travel through the spectacular scenery of the Snowdonia National Park as we make our way to the seaside town of Porthmadog via the pretty village of Beddgelert. From here we will board our train on the Ffestiginog Railway. Sit back and relax as we enjoy the dramatic views of mountains, lakes and waterfalls.

Day 3 – Enjoy a day at leisure today to do as much or as little as you like.

to enjoy. This afternoon we ride on the Llanberis Lake Railway, a narrow-gauge railway which follows the stunning lake shores.

Day 5 – After breakfast we travel to Llandudno for a journey on The Great Orme Tramway which comprises of four original Victorian tramcars, and is a unique experience offering fantastic views of Llandudno’s sweeping bays and the Great Orme. After some free time, we return home.

Located on the sea front and only a 15 minute walk into the town centre. The hotel looks over Barkby Beach and is an ideal hotel for our stay.

Please note: Images used are for marketing purposes only.

On the day your train may be a steam engine or a diesel locomotive. The order of days is subject to change due to attraction availability.

DATE

Fri 4 September

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£479

Single Room Supplement

£79

Travel Insurance

£23

31

NEW Thames Tales River Cruise INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights half board 1 night bed & breakfast Cruises on the Thames: -> Oxford to Abingdon -> Reading to Henley -> Kew to Westminster Pier -> Greenwich to Westminster Pier

HOTEL 4 Hilton Reading, Reading Our hotel has well appointed guest rooms, restaurant, bar and Living Well fitness club, with sauna and steam room.

London City © Sborisov

Day 1 – This morning we travel to the enchanting city of Oxford for a little free time before we board the first of our cruises along the river to Abingdon-on-Thames. We then continue to our hotel, the 4-star Hilton Reading.

Day 2 – We drive to Caversham Bridge in the heart of Reading, to join our boat for a cruise to the beautiful town of Henley, best known for its world-famous annual regatta.

Day 3 – After breakfast we take a short drive to Kew where we board our boat for a trip to Westminster Pier in central London, allowing you to take in some of the city’s famous landmarks. You will then have free time in the city before heading to our hotel, the Novotel London Greenwich for one night. This evening is yours to explore the local area, maybe have dinner at one of the nearby pubs or restaurants.

Day 4 – After breakfast we take our final cruise from Greenwich along the Thames and back to Westminster Pier, and then have some more free time. We will then continue back home.

HOTEL 4

Novotel London Greenwich Our modern hotel offers bright bedrooms with free Wi-Fi and tea and coffee making facilities.

DATE

Fri 5 June

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£369

Single Room Supplement

£99

Travel Insurance

£23

Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh LAS

NCE T CHA

INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night bed & breakfast Admission into the Tutankhamun Exhibition Free time in London

HOTEL 3

Holiday Inn Express Heathrow

Our modern hotel offers comfortable and stylish accommodation with tea and coffee making facilities available.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Sat 18 January

2

£149

Sat 29 February

2

£109

Day 1 – We travel to London for free time after which our coach will pick you up and take you to our hotel.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit the Tutankhamun Exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery.

Discover the fascinating treasures, explore the meaning of these priceless items and delve into the dual storyline of its discovery against all odds. The pharaohs that succeeded Tutankhamun nearly managed to erase him from the history books. Had Howard Carter not persisted in his quest, the boy king’s legacy and treasures could have been forever lost to the sands of Egypt.

Sat 21 March

2

£149

Sat 28 March

2

£119

Sat 4 April

2

£119

Sat 11 April

2

£119

Sat 18 April

2

£119

Single Room Supplement

£29

Please note: We reserve the right to change the day of the Tutankamun exibition visit to day 1, as attraction availability may vary.

Travel Insurance

£17

DATE

© Tutankahmun

32 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

NEW Wine & Witches in the Ribble Valley I N C LU

DE

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INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights half board Accompanied by Simon Enwistle at destinations on days 2 & 3 Canal cruise with meat & potato pie on board Visits to Pendle Heritage Centre & Samlesbury Hall with guided tours Brief visit to the D. Bryrne & Co wine shop with a short talk from Simon Visit to Clitheroe

HOTEL 4 Best Western Oaks Hotel & Leisure Club, Burnley

Blue sky over Pendle Hill © LukeP77

Day 1 – This morning we travel to Foulridge, a small village in the Parish of Pendle, where we have arranged a cruise along the Leeds & Liverpool canal. Whilst on board we will be treated to a meat and potato pie lunch followed by tea or coffee and mints.

Day 2 – We travel to the Pendle Heritage Centre, where we will be joined by Simon Entwistle, our award-winning historian and tour guide. The centre is set in a range of beautifully resorted grade II listed farm buildings with garden, tearoom, parlour shop, art gallery and a museum. Afterwards, Simon will accompany us to D. Byrne & Co wine shop and Cellar before enjoying free time in Clitheroe.

Day 3 – This morning we re-join Simon to visit Samlesbury Hall, featured in the popular television series ‘Most Haunted.’ Today we discover its many secrets and learn all about its local resident spirits. Afterwards, we return home.

Nestled amid 4 acres of landscaped gardens, this renovated Victorian mansion offers attractive accommodation whilst retaining many of its original characteristics, it creates a tranquil, traditional atmosphere.

DATE

Fri 3 July

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£239

Single Room Supplement

£49

Travel Insurance

£17

Halloween Ghost Walk Special with Simon Entwistle I N C LU

D

IDED ES G U

TO U R

INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Excursions to Pendle Heritage Centre & Samlesbury Hall Guided night-time tour with Simon Entwistle

HOTEL 3 Holiday Inn Preston The modern hotel offers comfortable accommodation with free Wi-Fi throughout.

© Samlesbury Hall

Day 1 – During our spooky halloween break we will be accompanied by Simon Entwistle, an award-winning and experienced tour guide. We travel to Pendle Hill where we visit the Pendle Heritage Centre in Barrowford and Witch Museum. Follow the journey of the 10 people executed on the Lancaster Moors after being found guilty of witchcraft. Afterwards we head to our hotel for dinner and as nightfall strikes re-join our guide Simon for a spooky ghost walk!

Day 2 – This morning we are in the company of Simon Entwistle once more for a visit to Samlesbury Hall, featured in the popular television series ‘Most Haunted’. Discover many secrets here and learn all about the local resident spirits, including the legendary White Lady, Dorothy Southworth, who allegedly died of a broken heart.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Sat 31 October

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£129

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£17

33

Skills Party Break in Chester ENT CITY C

RE HO

TEL

INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board at The Queen’s Hotel, Chester Disco and party night Free time in Chester DATE

Sat 11 January

Friends toasting at a party © Ridofranz

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£99

Single Room Supplement

£15

Travel Insurance

£17

Day 1 – This afternoon we arrive in Chester to enjoy free time and explore the magnificent medieval city! Later, we return to the hotel for the evenings celebrations. Tonight, you will be joined by members of the Skills Team for a fabulous 3-course meal followed by a disco, which will have you dancing late into the night.

Day 2 – After breakfast, enjoy more free time in Chester before we return home.

Skills Party Break in Harrogate C

NTR ITY CE

E H OT

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INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board at The Crown Hotel, Harrogate Disco and party night Free time in Harrogate DATE

Sat 1 February

Friends at a party © Bernardbodo

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£109

Single Room Supplement

£25

Travel Insurance

£17

Day 1 – We travel to Harrogate for free time, with comfort stops along the way. Later we travel to our hotel to prepare for this evening’s fabulous 3-course meal and party night!

Day 2 – After breakfast, enjoy a little more time to explore Harrogate. Perhaps go for a refreshing walk along the Heritage Spa Trail (located near The Turkish Baths), which provides you with a fascinating insight in to Harrogate’s spa history. Why not pay a visit to the elegant mix of boutique shops and galleries located in the town centre? This afternoon, we return back to the East Midlands.

Sparkling Spa Break INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board at Mercure Leeds Parkway Free time to use hotel facilities Visit to York PRE-BOOKABLE TREATMENTS These must be booked before travelling: • Holistic and Relaxing Facial • Indian Head Massage • Reflexology • Reiki

• Deep Tissue Massage • Hot Stones Massage

Day 1 – Your weekend of relaxation starts here, as we make our way to our hotel in Leeds where you can spend the rest of the day enjoying the on-site facilities, which include a sauna, spa bath and steam room. If you wish to pre-book any of the spa treatments please speak to a member of our holiday team at the time of booking.

Any of the above 30 mins £34 or 1 hour £54

Any of the above 30 mins £38 or 1 hour £54

Day 2 – After a leisurely breakfast we take you to York for free time before returning home in the afternoon

Sat 7 March

Woman enjoying a head massage © Bernardbodo

34 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£89

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£17

4* Liverpool City Break ENT CITY C

RE HO

TEL

INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights bed & breakfast in central Liverpool Free time in Liverpool *Optional visit to the Beatles Story costs £16pp DAYS

PRICE FROM

Fri 3 July

3

£169

Fri 11 September

3

£169

DATE

Albert Dock, Liverpool © Trabantos

Single Room Supplement

£59

Travel Insurance

£17

Day 1 – We make our way to Liveprool, and our centrally located hotel leaving the rest of the day free to explore.

Day 2 – After breakfast explore Liverpool in your own time today. The Albert Dock, situated in a spectacular World Heritage Waterfront features the largest collection of Grade I listed buildings in the country and is bursting with international art and award-winning museums.

Why not join us for our optional visit to the Beatles Story?* Day 3 – After a leisurely breakfast enjoy some free time before we return home.

4* Liverpool City Break C

NTR ITY CE

E H OT

EL

INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night bed & breakfast in central Liverpool Free time in Liverpool *Optional visit to the Beatles Story costs £16pp DAYS

PRICE FROM

Fri 7 February

2

£99

Fri 20 March

2

£99

Fri 12 June

2

£99

Fri 14 August

2

£99

Fri 2 October

2

£99

DATE

Liverpool Albert Dock © SAKhanPhotography

Day 1 – We make our way to Liveprool.

Day 2 – After breakfast enjoy Liverpool. Alternatively, you can join us for the Beatles Story, a must-see for all fans of the Fab Four! We depart back to Nottingham midafternoon.*

Single Room Supplement

£30

Travel Insurance

£17

4* London City Break INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights bed & breakfast Free time in London DAYS

PRICE FROM

Sat 18 July

3

£179

Fri 7 August

3

£179

DATE

Ariel view of London © Ivanastar

Single Room Supplement

£79

Travel Insurance

£17

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel in London with a comfort break en route. Your stylish hotel is a short walk from the underground offering easy access into central London.

Day 2 – Enjoy free time to do as much (or as little) as you like!

Day 3 – After a leisurely morning, we will retrace our footsteps home in the afternoon.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

35

NEW 4* Romantic England: Worcester & Stratford-upon-Avon Featuring Bourton-on-the Water INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights half board Excursions to Bourton-on-the-Water, Worcester & Stratford-upon-Avon

HOTEL 4 Mercure Warwickshire Walton Hall Hotel & Spa

The hotel offers stylish and comfortable bedrooms with tea and coffee making facilities, a restaurant, bar, lounge and roof terrace overlooking the Victorian Garden

Avon Canal, Stratford-upon-Avon © A Time Glimpse Creation

Day 1 – This morning we visit Bourton-on-the-Water for free time. Located in a small valley amongst the gentle rolling hills of the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water is often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ because of its attractive little bridges that cross gently over the River Windrush. Afterwards, we continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – After a leisurely morning we travel to Worcester, the city best known for its cathedral which rises majestically above the sparkling River Severn. With plenty of independent shops and restaurants as well as historic sights, your time in the city will fly by.

Day 3 – On our way home we visit Stratford‐upon‐Avon for free time. Birthplace of England’s greatest playwright William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon is a historian’s paradise.

DATE

Fri 4 September

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£209

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£17

4* Sparkling Spa Break or Cardiff City Break CITY

RE H CENT

OT E L

INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Free time to use hotel facilities Free time in Cardiff Pre-bookable treatments

HOTEL 4 Mercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel & Spa This 4-star luxury hotel is located a short walk away from the main shopping district. Many of the modern rooms have stunning panoramic city views, and the hotel features a swimming pool, gym and spa as well as a stylish lounge-bar.

PRE-BOOKABLE TREATMENTS These must be booked before travelling: Cardiff University © Leonid Andronov

Day 1 – Take a seat on board our comfortable coach and sit back and relax as we make our way to our 4* hotel in Cardiff. After checking in you can enjoy the rest of the day exploring the vibrant Welsh capital.

Day 2 – After breakfast you are free to do as much, or as little as you like, remember Cardiff city centre is just a short walk away from our hotel. Recently named one of the best shopping destinations in the UK, Cardiff’s compact, regenerated city centre is crowned with the Principality Stadium and packed with bars, retaurants and shops. This afternoon we travel back home.

36 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

25 Minute Back Massage (£30.00 per person) 25 Minute Facial (£30.00 per person) 25 Minute Body Brush & Polish (£30.00 per person) 25 Minute Scalp Massage (£30.00 per person) DATE

Sat 4 January

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£99

Single Room Supplement

£20

Travel Insurance

£17

Stepping Back in Time Salute to The 40’s Vintage Festival Featuring Bletchley Park INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights half board Excursion to Cambridge Entrance to Bletchely Park & Salute to the 40s Festival in Chatham Dockyard

HOTEL 3 Holiday Inn Sittingbourne Originally built as a private residence in 1880, the stylish Holiday Inn Sittingbourne blends period features with modern, luxurious additions. With floor-to-ceiling windows, Coniston Kitchen offers a dining experience with stunning views. The individually styled bedrooms feature an en suite bathroom with shower, free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and luxurious, modern furniture. © Chatham Historic Dockyard

Day 1 – We travel to Cambridge for free time. Perhaps visit Cambridge University Botanic Garden, which covers an area of 40-acres and showcases an impressive collection of more than 8,000 species of plants from across the globe.

Day 2 – After breakfast don your victory curls and red lipstick as we head to the Vintage Festival at Chatham Historic Dockyard! Step back in time and prepare to be wowed with the variety of live performances, and enjoy a selection of old favourites and classic 40’s songs.

Day 3 – Before returning home we visit Bletchley Park with admission included. Explore the iconic WWII codebreaking huts and blocks and marvel at the astonishing achievements of the codebreakers whose work is said to have helped shorten the war by two years.

DATE

Sat 19 September

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£189

Single Room Supplement

£39

Travel Insurance

£17

Oxford Featuring Inspector Morse & Midsomer Murders Cruise INCLUDES

Return coach travel 1 night half board ‘Midsomer Murders’ cruise with afternoon tea served on board Guided themed walking tour of Oxford

HOTEL 4 Doubletree by Hilton, Newbury North

Offering stylish accommodation, the Doubletree Newbury North provides a friendly and comfortable night’s stay.

Oxford University Quadrangle © Matthew Skubis

Day 1 – We travel to Henley‐on‐Thames, for our ‘Midsomer Murder’ cruise with a delicious afternoon tea served on board. Much of our guided cruise will be along the route of the world famous Henley Royal Regatta, which featured heavily as the chairmans murder site in “Dead in the Water”. We also sail past several other locations that have been featured in the popular TV DATE series. Our afternoon tea includes an assortment of delicate finger sandwiches, petit fours and Sat 26 September freshly baked scones and cakes.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Oxford, where we will be met by an enthusiastic guide for a Single Room Supplement hugely fun and entertaining tour of the locations used for Morse, Lewis and Endeavour. We will uncover Oxford and its famous universities as the backdrop for many a mysterious murder! Travel Insurance

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£169 £29 £17

37

Railways & Waterways of Lancashire INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Journey on the East Lancashire Steam Railway with cream tea Cruise on the widebeam canal boat Kingfisher with hot drink Visits to Bury and the Barton Grange Garden Centre

HOTEL 3 Legacy Preston International Hotel, Preston Our modern hotel offers comfortable guest rooms with contemporary décor, an open plan café bar and free Wi-Fi. East Lancashire Steam Railway

Day 1 – We take you to Bury for free time, why not visit the Sculpture Museum or the busy shopping area? Later we start our journey on the East Lancashire Steam Railway with cream tea included. The East Lancashire Railway is the steam powered heart of the Irwell Valley, and has been transporting goods and people around the region for nearly 200 years! The line runs through scenic Lancastrian landscapes, from beautiful rural panoramas and postcard pretty villages to bustling Victorian towns and cotton mill dotted horizons.

Day 2 – This morning we cruise the award-winning widebeam canal boat Kingfisher with a hot drink included. Relax once again as we pass through delightful countryside with views stretching towards the Bowland Fells. On our return journey we visit Barton Grange Garden Centre.

Limited number of disabled access rooms are available upon request (subject to availability) Please note: Images used are for marketing purposes only.

On the day your train may be a steam engine or a diesel locomotive.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Sat 8 February

2

£119

Sat 10 October

2

£119

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£19

Travel Insurance

£17

Railways & Waterways of Yorkshire INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Canal cruise with a cream tea Journey on the Worth Valley Railway from Keighley to Oxenhope Visit to the Skipton & Wentworth Garden Centre

HOTEL 3 Clarion Cedar Court Leeds Bradford Hotel

The perfect escape after exploring the rich culture Yorkshire has to offer, our hotel offers modern and spacious en suite rooms alongside a bar, restaurant and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Steam train passes through fields © Anyaivanova

Day 1 – We take you to Skipton, where we board our canal cruise, and slowly drift through the idyllic Yorkshire Dales. During the journey, a delicious cream tea will be served on board.

Day 2 – After breakfast relive your memories of the 1972 classic “The Railway Children” as we board the famous Worth Valley Railway from Keighley to Oxenhope for an unforgettable journey through Brontë Country! Witness some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, a windswept land of heather and wild moors. On our return journey, we visit Wentworth Garden Centre.

38 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Please note: Images used are for marketing purposes only.

On the day your train may be a steam engine or a diesel locomotive.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Sat 4 July

2

£119

Sat 29 August

2

£119

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£39

Travel Insurance

£17

Settle to Carlisle Railway INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Journey on the Settle to Carlisle Railway Excursions to York

HOTEL 3 Shap Wells Hotel, Penrith (March) Located on the edge of the Lake District, our hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi.

HOTEL 3 Gretna Hall Hotel, Gretna Green (May & August)

Ribblehead Viaduct © Alan Barr

Day 1 – We head north for our journey on the world-famous Settle to Carlisle Railway. It runs through some of the most attractive scenery in the Yorkshire Dales and Cumbrian Fells, and is renowned for its Victorian architecture, huge stone viaducts and long tunnels.

Day 2 – Before returning home we visit the historic city of York, home to thirty world-class attractions including the Castle Dungeons, Jorvik Centre, magnificent minster and York Chocolate Story.

Situated on 10-acres of landscaped gardens within the village of Gretna Green, our 18th century hotel offers both traditional and modern en suite rooms with tea and coffee facilities.

Please note: Images used are for marketing purposes only.

On the day your train may be a steam engine or a diesel locomotive.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Sat 7 March

2

£119

Fri 8 May

2

£119

Sat 29 August

2

£119

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£19

Travel Insurance

£17

Severn Valley Railway & Shrewsbury INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Journey on the Severn Valley Railway Free time in Bewdley & Shrewsbury

HOTEL 3 The Telford Whitehouse Hotel (April) This modern and comfortable hotel offers en suite rooms, tea and coffee making facilities and Wi-Fi.

HOTEL 3 Ibis Telford Centre Hotel (October)

Steam train through countryside © Gary Burfield-Wallis

Day 1 – Today we travel to Bridgnorth for our journey on The Severn Valley Railway to Bewdley. This full-size standard-gauge line runs regular, mainly steam-hauled, passenger services, and is one of the largest collections of working steam locomotives and coaches with some over 80 years old! Bewdley, is an attractive Georgian town that sits directly upon the River Severn in an area of rich agricultural and industrial history.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Shrewsbury for free time. Set amidst glorious countryside, Shrewsbury is one of England’s finest medieval market towns.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Ideally located in the heart of Shropshire, our hotel provides spacious bedrooms with tea and coffee making facilities.

Please note: Images used are for marketing purposes only.

On the day your train may be a steam engine or a diesel locomotive.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Sat 18 April

2

£99

Sat 10 October

2

£99

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£17

39

Summer at Kew Gardens INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Admission in to Kew Gardens Visit to Windsor

HOTEL 3 Holiday Inn Express Heathrow This modern and comfortable hotel offers en suite rooms, tea and coffee making facilities and Wi-Fi alongside bar and restaurant services.

© Pagoda Tower, Kew Gardens

Day 1 – This morning we enjoy a visit to Windsor, where the marriage of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle took place in May 2018. Crowned by the stunning Windsor Castle – the largest and oldest inhabited castle in the world – Windsor offers a rich mix of history, culture, heritage and fun which makes it one Britain’s loveliest destinations.

DATE

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, the largest botanical and mycological collection in the world. Highlights include the Treetop Walkway, the Palm House and the Princess of Wales Conservatory. Later this afternoon we retrace our footsteps home.

Sat 1 August

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£159

Single Room Supplement

£19

Travel Insurance

£17

Rose Gardens & Tulips at Waddeson Manor Featuring Bury St Edmunds INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Admission in to Waddeson Manor & Gardens Free time in Bury St. Edmunds

HOTEL 3 Holiday Inn Stevenage The Holiday Inn Stevenage boasts modern and comfortable accommodation with tea and coffee making facilities in each room.

© Waddeson Manor

Day 1 – We visit Bury St Edmunds for free time.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit the magnificent Waddesdon Manor, managed by the Rothschild Foundation on behalf of the National Trust. It was originally built in the 1870’s in the style of a French Renaissance chateau for Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild to house his superb collection of art treasures. Explore the Victorian style gardens, among the finest in Britain, just as they begin to burst in to blossoming works of art.

Gaze at the flamboyant colours and discover the rare and exotic birds housed in the Rococo style aviary.

40 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Sat 4 April

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£109

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£17

Imperial War Museum & Bletchley Park: Secrets of War INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Free time in London with the opportunity to visit the Imperial War Museum Admission into Bletchley Park

HOTEL 3 Holiday Inn Express Heathrow This modern and comfortable hotel offers en suite rooms, tea and coffee making facilities and Wi-Fi.

Bletchley Park Mansion © Louise Smith

Day 1 – Today we take you in to London, where you have the opportunity to visit the Imperial War Museum. Founded during the First World War, the museum gives a voice to the extraordinary experiences of ordinary people involved in war. Displayed across six floors, the vast collections encompass a wealth of objects including uniforms, photographs, vehicles, films, weapons, and works of art. After some free time we continue to our hotel for dinner.

Day 2 – After a leisurely breakfast we visit Bletchley Park. The iconic WWII codebreaking huts and blocks where the astonishing achievements of the codebreakers took place which shortened the war by two years. After some free time, we return home to the East Midlands.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Sat 18 January

2

£109

Sat 21 March

2

£109

Sat 17 October

2

£109

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£19

Travel Insurance

£17

Classic Cambridge Featuring Imperial War Museum Duxford & River Cruise CRUIS

E WI

A OR TH TE

COFF

EE

INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Cambridge cruise with tea or coffee served on board Admission into the Imperial War Museum, Duxford

HOTEL 4

Novotel Stevenage

This modern and comfortable hotel offers en suite rooms, tea and coffee making facilities and Wi-Fi.

Cambridge © William87

Day 1 – We travel to Cambridge where we have arranged a boat cruise for you to enjoy with tea and coffee served on board. Sit back, relax and enjoy this tranquil journey as we drift past the commons and boathouses towards Chesterton village and then back into the captivating city. Later, we take you to the hotel for our evening meal.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit the Imperial War Museum in Duxford, where hundreds of iconic aircraft and objects are on display. Stand in awe of the world’s most famous aircraft including a B-52 and Concorde, and WWII classics including the Spitfire and Lancaster bomber.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Sat 25 July

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£119

Single Room Supplement

£19

Travel Insurance

£17

41

Bath, Stonehenge & Salisbury INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights half board Visits to Stratford-upon-Avon, Salisbury & Bath Admission into Stonehenge *Optional visit to The Roman Baths £15 per person, please enquire at the time of booking

HOTEL 4 Holiday Inn Bristol Filton Our modern Bristol hotel offers a bar, restaurant and fitness centre alongside comfortable en suite rooms with a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee making facilities and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Bath © Valdisskudre

Day 1 – This morning we travel to Stratford‐upon‐Avon for free time. Set in the beautiful rural Warwickshire countryside, the town was the birthplace of England’s greatest playwright – William Shakespeare. We then continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – Today we take you to the ancient stone circle of Stonehenge, one of the modern Wonders of the World and best-known prehistoric monument in Europe. Explore the landscape before visiting the world-class exhibition and come face to face with a 5,500-yearold man. Afterwards we travel to Salisbury, home to a 750-year-old cathedral with a 404ft spire, the tallest in England.

Day 3 – Today we head to the beautiful Georgian city of Bath which has some of the richest ancient history in Britain and some of the most stunning architecture in Europe. There will also be the opportunity to visit the Roman Baths and see the magnificent temple and bathing complex which still flows with thermal water from its original source.*

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Fri 26 June

3

£189

Fri 28 August

3

£189

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£17

NEW Yorkshire Explorer: Leeds & York INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights half board Excursions to Leeds, York & Harrogate

HOTEL 4 Clarion Cedar Court Leeds Bradford Hotel, Bradford

The hotel offers modern bedrooms with free Wi-Fi as well as an indoor heated pool, a sauna and a gym.

York © Jui-Chi Chan

Day 1 – We travel to Harrogate to enjoy some free time. This characterful little town isn’t short of interesting attractions including magnificent garden walks and panoramic views. After some free time, we continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – After breakfast we take you to York, home to the awe-inspiring York Minster, DATE one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world! The Shambles is an ideal place to start the day and is perfectly placed to lead you on to the many boutiques, gift shops Sat 27 June and high street favourites that lie in the streets beyond.

Single Room Supplement Day 3 – After breakfast we visit Leeds, where you will find stylish shopping centres, delicious restaurants and contemporary art galleries and museums to enjoy free time Travel Insurance before we return home.

42 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£149 £39 £17

The Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo MAN

A

UR FAVO G E R’S

ITE

© The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

THE GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH – Experience an unforgettable evening of music, ceremony, theatre and dance as a cast of over 900 join together for a unique, atmospheric show unlike any other – set against the iconic Edinburgh Castle.

3-DAYS STAYING AT THE GOLDEN JUBILEE HOTEL* •

BEST SELLER

Return coach travel 1 night half board staying at the Golden Jubilee Conference Hotel in Glasgow 1 night bed & breakfast Ticket to the Royal Edinburgh Tattoo performance Free time in Edinburgh

HOTEL 4 The Golden Jubilee Hotel, Glasgow Our hotel offers stylish, modern bedrooms, spa and leisure facilities and a fabulous restaurant that provides contemporary British cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.

3-DAYS STAYING AT MERCURE PERTH HOTEL • •

VISIT TO THE KELPIES CENTRALLY LOCATED HOTEL

Return coach travel 2 nights bed & breakfast staying at the Mercure Perth Hotel Ticket to the Royal Edinburgh Tattoo performance Free time in Edinburgh Visit to The Kelpies on our way home

HOTEL 3 Mercure Perth Hotel

4-DAYS STAYING AT MERCURE PERTH HOTEL • •

FREE TIME IN PERTH & EDINBURGH CENTRALLY LOCATED HOTEL

Return coach travel 3 nights bed & breakfast at the Mercure Perth Hotel Ticket to the Royal Edinburgh Tattoo performance Free time in Edinburgh & Perth Visit to The Kelpies on our way home

5-DAYS STAYING AT MERCURE PERTH HOTEL • FREE TIME IN PERTH, EDINBURGH & DUNDEE • CENTRALLY LOCATED HOTEL Return coach travel 4 nights bed & breakfast at the Mercure Perth Hotel Ticket to the Royal Edinburgh Tattoo performance Free time in Edinburgh, Perth, Dundee & The Kelpies

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Our hotel is one of the most unique in the area, set in a 15th century watermill, where you can still watch the water trickling through the original water wheel from the garden, reception area and lounge bar. The en suite bedrooms provide tea and coffee making facilities.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Fri 7 August

3

£279

Mon 10 August*

3

£259

Thu 13 August

4

£359

Mon 17 August*

3

£259

Thu 20 August

5

£399

DATE

Single Room Supplement

CALL

43

Bristol International Balloon Fiesta CITY C

E HO ENTR

TEL

INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights bed & breakfast Visit to Bath Excursion to the Bristol Balloon Festival

HOTEL 4 Novotel Bristol Centre Our hotel offers contemporary rooms which feature a flat-screen TV and tea and coffee making facilities. Just a 15-minute walk from the vibrant harbourside area, Novotel Bristol is a 10-minute walk from Cabot Circus shopping centre.

Bristol International Balloon Fiesta from the Harbourside © NXiao

Day 1 – Today we visit Bath voted the best small city in Britain. Built for pleasure and relaxation, Bath has an abundance of places to eat and drink, plus some of the finest independent shops in the country.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Ashton Court Estate, once the home of the Smyth family. The historic park covers 850 acres of woods and grasslands, and is the home to Bristol’s International Balloon Fiesta. It’s a sight that must be seen to be believed as the incredible hot air balloons fill the skies. You will find there are also a number of stalls, fairground rides and entertainment provided throughout the day.

Day 3 – After a leisurely morning we retrace our footsteps back home.

DATE

Fri 7 August

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£199

Single Room Supplement

£99

Travel Insurance

£17

NEW Bristol Harbour Festival CITY

RE H CENT

OT E L

INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights bed & breakfast Visit to Bath Free time at the Bristol Harbour Festival

HOTEL 4 Novotel Bristol Centre Our hotel offers contemporary rooms which feature a flat-screen TV and tea and coffee making facilities. Just a 15-minute walk from the vibrant harbourside area, Novotel Bristol is a 10-minute walk from Cabot Circus shopping centre.

Bow Bristol © Maisna

Day 1 – Today we visit Bath voted the best small city in Britain. Built for pleasure and relaxation, Bath has an abundance of places to eat and drink, plus some of the finest independent shops in the country.

Day 2 – Enjoy free time in Bristol during the Harbour Festival, which showcases the city’s incredible maritime heritage. Why not head down to the historic floating harbour, where there will be lots of family-friendly activities along the waters-edge, tall ships and many jaw-dropping displays on the water.

Day 3 – After a leisurely morning we retrace our footsteps back home.

44 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Fri 17 July

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£199

Single Room Supplement

£99

Travel Insurance

£17

RHS Chelsea Flower Show INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board* OR 2 nights bed & breakfast** Admission in to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show Admission in to Kew Gardens (3 day tour only) Free time in London

HOTEL 3 Holiday Inn Express Heathrow (2-Day tour)* Our modern hotel offers comfortable and stylish accommodation with tea and coffee making facilities available.

HOTEL 4 Crowne Plaza London Heathrow (3-Day tour)** Press Day © RHS Chelsea Flower Show

Day 1 – We travel to central London with a comfort break en route, why not stroll the South Bank from Tower Bridge, passing the Tower of London, The Houses of Parliament, until you reach the London Eye?

The 4-star Crown Plaza features spacious, air-conditioned rooms with a contemporary design, internet access and tea and coffee making facilities.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show. The floral fiesta features nurseries and growers from all over the globe, as well as unique craft demonstrations. ‘Celeb’ spotters may get to rub shoulders with the rich and famous!

DATE

Day 3 (3-Day Tour) – Before returning home, we take you to the world-famous Royal Botanic Gardens Kew. Discover beautiful glasshouses such as the iconic Palm House with its exotic rainforest, the Princess of Wales Conservatory, the Waterlily House and Kew Palace – the former summer residence of King George III.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Wed 20 May*

2

£199

Wed 20 May**

3

£269

Single Room Supplement

CALL

Travel Insurance

£17

Harrogate Flower Show CITY

RE H CENT

OT E L

INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Entrance to Harrogate Flower Show Excursion to York

HOTEL 4 Jurys Inn, Bradford Our hotel offers stylish, modern rooms just 200 yards from the shops and bars of Bradford city centre. Walk-in showers are available at the hotel.

Flower Show Display

Day 1 – This morning we visit York, a city filled with culture, art, history and heritage combined with boutique shopping and a whole host of cosy bistros and pubs where you can sample some Yorkshire specialities.

Day 2 – After breakfast we enjoy a full day at the Harrogate Flower Show, where you can discover around 80 fantastic nurseries in the Plant Nursery Pavilion and wander through The Floral Pavilion, which hosts one of the most spectacular sights in Britain.

Later, we return home.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Sat 25 April

2

£109

Sat 19 September

2

£109

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£19

Travel Insurance

£17

45

BBC Countryfile Live at Blenheim Palace UT T SELL O

OUR

INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Excursion to Oxford & Blenheim Palace for the Countryfile Live event Please note: Entrance to Blenheim Palace is not included.

DATE

Sat 1 August

© BBC Countryfile Live 2018

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£129

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£17

Day 1 – We travel to Oxford the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’, and traditional seat of learning in Britain. Picturesque Oxford also features as the backdrop to the popular TV series Inspector Morse and Lewis. The city offers so much to see and do, perhaps visit one of the many world class museums, the botanical gardens or take a punt along the stunning River Cherwell.

Day 2 – Today we travel to Blenheim Palace, which plays host to BBC Countryfile Live. Throughout the day there will be exciting live arena shows, talks, hands-on-activities, animal displays, farming-in-action and shopping, with more than 600 food and craft producers.

RHS Hampton Court Flower Show Featuring Waterperry Gardens ENH

D IT ANCE

INERA

RY

INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board at Holiday Inn Express Heathrow Visit to Waterperry Gardens Admission into the Hampton Court Flower Show DATE

Sat 11 July

© Waterperry Gardens

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£139

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£17

Day 1 – On our way to our hotel we visit Waterperry Gardens, made famous by Beatrix Havergal who established her School of Horticulture for Ladies here from 1932 to 1971. It is now a complex of beautifully landscaped ornamental gardens, a plant centre, garden shop, gift shop and a tea room.

Day 2 – We visit King Henry VIII’s famous Hampton Court Palace to enjoy the annual RHS Flower Show – with 2020 set to be brighter and more spectacular than ever!

Malvern Autumn Show INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board at Holiday Inn Bromsgrove Free time in Stratford‐upon‐Avon Admission into the Malvern Autumn Show DATE

Sat 26 September

Fruits and vegetables at market © Ross Helen

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£119

Single Room Supplement

£19

Travel Insurance

£17

Day 1 – This morning we visit Stratford‐upon‐Avon for free time. The town is best known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare and has an abundance of Elizabethan history on display.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel the RHS Malvern Autumn Festival situated in a stunning setting at the foot of the Malvern Hills. The show features a charming selection of harvest produce, autumn flowers, livestock and family‐friendly entertainment. Later today we return home.

46 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Ladies Day at Royal Ascot INCLUDES Return coach travel 1/2 nights half board Visit to London Visit St Albans (3-day break) Entrance to Ladies Day at Royal Ascot (includes ticket to the Windsor Enclosure)

Upgrade to the Queen Anne Enclosure from £54 per person

HOTEL 3 Holiday Inn Express Heathrow

Our modern hotel offers comfortable and stylish accommodation with tea and coffee making facilities.

© Royal Ascot

Day 1 – After we arrive in London our friendly driver will drop you off in a central location, from where you can explore the city in your own time. Enjoy panoramic views from the London Eye, see the stars at Madame Tussauds, Shrek’s Adventure or hit Knightsbridge, where you’ll find the famous Harrods department store.

Day 2 – Dress to impress in your best frock, hat or suit today as we make our way to Ascot to revel in the wonderful atmosphere. After placing your bets, collecting your winnings and finishing your champagne we return to the hotel for tonight’s evening meal.

Day 3 (3-Day Tour) – Before returning home we visit St Albans for a little free time. Here you’ll discover history, culture, entertainment, food, drink, shopping, green parks and friendly people all within a short distance of each other.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Wed 17 June

3

£219

Wed 17 June

2

£149

DATE

Single Room Supplement

CALL

Travel Insurance

£17

Llandudno’s Victorian Extravaganza UN

EVE IQUE

NT

INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Excursions to Chester & Liverpool Free time in Llandudno to enjoy the Victorian Extravaganza taking place throughout the town

HOTEL 3 The Beaches Hotel, Prestatyn

Located on the sea front overlooking Barkby Beach our hotel is only a 15-minute walk into the town centre.

Facilities include a pool, sauna and steam room. En suite bedrooms have free Wi-Fi and overlook either the north Wales coastline or the Prestatyn hillside.

Victorian Extravaganza- Llandudno

Day 1 – We visit historic Chester for free time before continuing to our hotel.

Day 2 – Experience the Victorian Extravaganza with period costumes, vintage attractions, entertainment and fun fair. Llandudno is a traditional seaside resort with a long sandy beach and a vibrant town centre.

Day 3 – After breakfast we visit Liverpool before continuing home.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Sat 2 May

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£119

Single Room Supplement

£19

Travel Insurance

£17

47

European Holidays Our Continental Holiday Programe makes it easier than ever to experience Europe, with no long airport delays.

Your holiday starts as soon as you step on board!

Our European holidays provide excellent value for money and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, all with stylish, comfortable coach travel and accommodation.

Mediterranean Europe & Portugal

Baltic States & Central Europe

Benelux & France

CoachStyle Holidays

Pages 49 - 58

Pages 59 - 65

Pages 66 - 70

Pages 71 - 74

Skills Premium Door-to-Door

Cruise & Maritime Voyages

Channel Islands

By Air

Pages 75 - 76

Pages 77 - 81

Page 82

48 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

NEW Golden Italy: Genoa, Pisa & Lucca

INCLUDES

Genoa, panoramic view © Olena_Znak

The beautiful northwest of Italy - with vivid blue waters, sandy beaches and stunning picturesque villages, this area of Italy, bordering the Ligurian Sea, is one of the most beautiful in Europe. On our spectacular stay we’ll enjoy visits to Genoa, Pisa & Lucca as well as an optional excursion to the enchanting Cinque Terre region – a UNESCO World Heritage listed strip of historic multi-coloured villages.

Day 1 – We travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 2 – We continue our journey crossing into Italy and heading for Marina di Pietrasanta Day 3 – At leisure at our lovely seaside resort. Marina di Pietrasanta has a fine historic old town to explore, magnificent sandy beaches to enjoy, plenty of shops and a choice of cafes, pizzerias, and gelaterias to tempt your taste buds! Why not relax on the hotel’s rooftop terrace, complete with loungers, hot tub and pool.

Day 4 – Join us on our optional excursion to Cinque Terre, five centuries old villages of colourful houses amid rugged terrain and vineyards. From the main port of La Spezia we will travel by boat to the villages of Portovenere, Vernazza and Monterosso. The villages are best appreciated from the sea as they perch on the craggy rocks above the crystal clear waters. We will return to La Spezia by train for onward coach travel back to our resort. Please note: This optional excursion may be unsuitable for passengers with restricted mobility or

walking difficulties. Cinque Terre is only accessible by boat or train and the return train journey might be crowded.* Day 5 – Our first destination today is the Roman city of Lucca. Surrounded by a medieval wall, you can wander safely through the traffic free alleyways and squares that inspired one of Italy’s greatest composers, Giacomo Puccini.

Next, we head to Pisa, home to one of the world’s most famous landmarks, the renowned Leaning Tower.

Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 2 nights bed & breakfast en route 5 nights half board 1 typical Tuscan Dinner Visits to Genoa, Pisa & Lucca Free time at an Italian coastal resort *Optional boat trip to Cinque Terre £50 per person

HOTEL 3 Hotel Villa Marzia, Marina di Pietrasanta With a rooftop hot tub and swimming pool, this family-run hotel lies next to Versiliana Park, a 5-minute walk from the beach at Marina di Pietrasanta. Sun loungers and deck chairs furnish the hotels roof terrace where guests can relax with a drink and enjoy views of the Mediterranean Sea and the nearby pine forest.

Please note: Some facilities at the hotel may be seasonal.

Day 6 – After breakfast we visit Genoa, a large port city and the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Roam around the medieval sights and check out the 12th century city gates in the east – Porta Soprana. From here head towards the centre of town where we’ll pass through atmospheric cobbled alleyways leading to the main square, Piazza de Ferrari – with its grand bronze fountain.

Day 7 – We leave our resort and retrace our footsteps back to our overnight hotel.

Day 8 – We return home.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Sun 26 April

DAYS

PRICE FROM

8

£599

Single Room Supplement

£149

Travel Insurance

£40

49

NEW Lake Garda, Venice & Verona OM W E LC

E DRI

NK

Limone sul Garda © Xbrchx

Renowned for its timeless beauty and framed by magnificent mountains, Lake INCLUDES Garda is one of Italy’s most cherished destinations. Experience the perfect mix of stunning scenery with an excursion to the Madonna della Corona church, discover the Return Channel crossing enchanting towns of Limone and Malcesine and enjoy a boat cruise along a glistening Coach travel throughout lake on our captivating getaway.

2 nights bed & breakfast en route 6 nights half board in Limone Sul Garda Day 1 – Enjoy a leisurely journey as Perhaps spend the morning exploring Welcome drink in Limone sul Garda we travel through Europe, making an the remarkable sights including the Boat trip from Limone to Malcesine (one way) overnight stop en route. magnificent Piazza Bra and its incredible Excursions to Verona, Malcesine, Riva del Garda Roman amphitheatre and enjoying a little & Santuario Madonna della Corona Church Day 2 – We continue to the Hotel Cristina, shopping in the Via Mazzini. located in the hills of Limone sul Garda. *Optional excursion to Venice £35 per person Day 6 – Join us today for an optional Day 3 – After a relaxing morning we have excursion to the ancient city of Venice, arranged a boat cruise to take us over home of Casanova and Marco Polo. This HOTEL 3 to Malcesine, one of the most beautiful historically important city was originally Hotel Cristina, Limone sul Garda towns on the lake. Explore its picturesque built on 100 small islands in the Adriatic harbour surrounded by colourful buildings Sea. Explore the incredible architecture and a few small boats. From here stroll and history by visiting the splendid Piazza With its hilltop location in Limone sul Garda, Hotel Cristina offers along the cobbled streets to the old town, San Marco, the world-renowned Grand spacious bedrooms, extensive gardens and incredible panoramic home to two squares – the Piazza Turazza Canal thoroughfare and the Bridge of lake views that can be admired from the swimming pools and and the Piazza Cavour – and numerous Sighs.* sun terraces. restaurants and cafés. After some free time our driver will take us back to our hotel.

Day 7* – Today we visit the sanctuary of Madonna della Corona, a spectacular Day 4 – Discover Limone sul Garda in church that is said to be suspended your own time today. Situated in the between heaven and earth. Overlooking mountainous northern end of Lake Garda, the lush Adige Valley, the sanctuary is Limone is the Italian word for lemon nestled into the rocky cliff of Monte Baldo. and this shore of Lake Garda was once Sitting on a thin shelf of rock the church renowned for growing lemons and other seems to float in mid-air. We will return to citrus fruits. The heart of the old town is our hotel via a stop at Riva del Garda. the harbour, Porto Vecchio. From here you can explore narrow lanes lined with shops, Day 8 – We return to our overnight hotel picturesque waterfront terraces and plenty for a bed and breakfast stay this evening. of places to eat. Please note: Shuttles PRICE run every half an hour from our hotel to Day 9 – We retrace our footsteps home.

DATE DAYS FROM the centre for a small charge (€1 pppw), *From the coach drop off there is a 20-minute Thu 4 June 9 £749 alternatively our hotel is a short walk from walk. There are regular shuttle buses (small the town centre.

Sat 17 October 9 £679 Day 5 – After breakfast we travel to Verona, the medieval Italian city that was Shakespeare’s setting for Romeo & Juliet.

charge) running up the hill. From the shuttle bus drop off there is another 800m uphill walk to get to the church. Please note: This excursion is not suitable for passengers with restricted mobility.

50 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Single Room Supplement

£109

Travel Insurance

£40

NEW Spring on the Lakes Como & Maggiore Featuring Milan

Lake Como, Italy © J-wildman

The Lakes Como and Maggiore are undoubtedly some of the most famous Italian lake destinations. Sun-kissed and surrounded by dramatic cliffs, they are the epitome of elegance, beauty, history and culture. Come away with us this spring and discover the enchanting lakeside resorts of Cadenabbia, Ascona and Locarno as well as a boat cruise on Lake Como and an enchanting optional visit to the spellbinding island of Isola Bella Day 1 – We begin our leisurely journey to our overnight hotel.

Day 2 – We travel to Hotel Britannia Excelsior.

Day 3 – After breakfast enjoy a day at leisure in Cadenabbia, our lakeside resort where the mountains descend into Lake Como. Today, we have included a boat cruise along the sparkling waters of Lake Como.

Day 4 – We travel to Ascona and Locarno, which are located on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Ascona is renowned for its Mediterranean-style architecture and café-lined promenade, whilst Locarno is acclaimed to have the warmest climate in the area.

Day 5 – Join us today for an optional excursion to Isola Bella with entrance to the Borromeo Palace.* Arriving in Stresa we catch a boat across to Isola Bella, perhaps one of the most admired destinations on Lake Maggiore. Isola Bella is dominated by its stunning Baroque palace with a luxuriant Italian-style

garden. A stroll through the gardens will lead you to the amphitheatre, an elaborate construction on three levels with walls decorated with stones and tuff.

Dotted about are tasteful niches, reliefs and statues representing the triumph of the Borromeo family. From here you can walk to the upper terrace, which boasts a magnificent panoramic view of the mountains surrounding the gulf.

Day 6 – We visit Milan, a city with an influential past and a rich cultural heritage. At the heart of the historic centre is Milan’s Piazza del Duomo, home to the most famous monument in Milan, the Duomo Cathedral - the largest in the world. This is the place where Napoleon was crowned the “Emperor of the French and King of Italy” in 1805. Other points of interest include La Scala Opera and Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to Da Vinci’s world famous fresco, “The Last Supper”.

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 2 nights bed & breakfast en route 5 nights half board Free time in Cadenabbia Boat trip on Lake Como Visits to Locarno, Ascona & Milan *Optional Excursion to Stresa, Isola Bella & the Borromeo Palace £50 per person

HOTEL 3 Hotel Britannia Excelsior Hotel Britannia Excelsior is set on the shores of Lake Como and is a former 19th-century inn. The guest rooms are tastefully decorated with luxury fabrics and antique furniture.

Day 7 – We leave our resort and return to our overnight hotel.

Day 8 – We continue home.

DATE

Tue 24 March

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

8

£589

Single Room Supplement

£159

Travel Insurance

£40

51

Beautiful Sardinia & Tuscan Delights ES C

D HO O RT E

L I DAY

Luxury yachts in harbor in Porto Cervo Costa Smeralda, Sardina © RomanBabakin

Discover breathtaking Sardinia, home to magnificent golden beaches, an island full of allure, intrigue and boasting a rich Bronze Age history. Surrounded by glistening oceans and covered in blankets of emerald-green next to towering mountains, our trip will take you away to an enchanting paradise.

Day 1 – We break our journey with an overnight stop in France Day 2 – We continue to the Spanish seaside resort of Callela to our second overnight hotel.

Day 3 – We begin our day in Barcelona, where you can enjoy some free time. With a history amongst the oldest in Europe, Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia, an unforgettable city of art, that has a reputation of being the most cosmopolitan, modern and avant-garde city in Spain. Walk along the famous Ramblas or perhaps hop onto the Tramvia Blau for a tram journey up to the top of Tibidabo and take in the magnificent sights of the city below you. Later this evening we board our ship for our overnight sailing over to Porto Torres.

Day 4 – You will awake this morning in beautiful Porto Torres in northern Sardinia.

Reboarding our coach, we travel to our hotel in Palau and spend the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 5 – Enjoy a cruise around the La Maddalena islands, located off the northeastern tip of Sardinia surrounded by crystal clear waters, pink sands and a series of rocks and coves. Joined by a knowledgeable guide, our first stop today is Santa Marina where we enjoy a little free time. We then continue to the unique ‘Spiaggia Rosa’ (the Pink Beach) of the archipelago. During our boat ride spaghetti will be served for everyone on board.

Day 6 – Today we take you to Costa Smeralda, a quintessence of turquoise blue sea, heavenly bays, crystal clear water and priceless luxury. We’ll also be treated to a local wine tasting, accompanied by typical local delicacies. During our day we will enjoy leisurely stops in the beautiful villages of Porto Cervo, Cala di Volpe and Porto Rotondo.

Day 7 – Enjoy a day at leisure.

Day 8 – Joined by a local guide we will visit the city of Nuoro, overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, where you will find the island’s largest folklife museum. After some free time, we continue to Orgosolo, located high in the mountains, surrounded by a fascinating natural landscape. We will end our day with a hearty meal with some local shepherds, before returning to our hotel.

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout Escorted by a Skills representative 2 overnight sailings with breakfast* en-route (*1 pastry and 1 hot drink)

10 nights half board throughout your stay Welcome drink on arrival at Hotel Palau & Adua & Regina di Saba Wellness & Beauty Hotel Escorted excursions to La Maddalena Archipelago, Costa Smeralda, Nuoro & Orgosolo Visits to Pisa & Lucca 1 x spaghetti lunch on the boat on day 5 1 x wine tasting with typical delights on day 6 1 x typical lunch & folkloristic show on day 8

HOTEL 4 Hotel Palau Located on the upper part of Palau, the 4-star Hotel Palau offers elegant air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant and 2 pools. Just a short walk separates the hotel from the port and marina, one of the most beautiful of Sardinia, where you can enjoy enchanting views over the surrounding islands.

Day 9 – Enjoy some time at leisure.

Later we will travel to our ferry for our overnight sailing to Livorno.

Day 10 – We travel to our hotel in Montecatini Terme. Famous for its thermal waters, Montecatini Terme is one of the biggest spa towns in Italy. Once you’ve checked in you are free to explore at leisure.

Day 11 – We visit the Roman city of Lucca before heading to Pisa, home to one of the world’s most famous landmarks, the renowned Leaning Tower.

DATE

Day 12 – We travel to our overnight hotel.

Single Room Supplement

£299

Day 13 – After an enchanting escape, we retrace our footsteps home.

Travel Insurance

£45

52 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Wed 14 October

DAYS

PRICE FROM

13

£1,239

Treasures of Tuscany CENT

OT E RAL H

INCLUDES

L

Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 2 nights bed & breakfast en route 6 nights half board in Montecatini Terme Welcome drink in resort Visits to Lucca, Florence, Siena & Pisa *Optional visit to Viareggio £15 per person **Optional visit to San Gimignano £15 per person

HOTEL 4 Hotel Biondi, Montecatini Terme

Duomo in Florence © RossHelen

Day 1 – We cross the Channel and make an overnight stop en route.

Day 2 – We continue to Italy, arriving at Hotel Biondi in Montecatini Terme Day 3 – Today we will travel to the Tuscan cities of Lucca and Pisa for free time.

Day 4 – Enjoy exploring Montecatini Terme at your own pace today.

Day 5 – We visit Florence, home to some of the greatest artistic treasures in the world.

Day 6 – Today we travel to Siena, considered the loveliest Medieval city in Europe.

Day 7 (May) – Enjoy a day at leisure. Alternatively, join us for an optional trip to Viareggio – the largest beach town in Tuscany.* Day 7 (August) – Enjoy a day of leisure, or join us for an optional visit to San Gimignano, one of the most iconic and recognisable destinations in Tuscany.** Day 8 – We retrace our footsteps back to our overnight hotel.

Day 9 – After an early start, we continue home.

Featuring a garden with terrace, an indoor pool and a Tuscan restaurant, Hotel Biondi is in the thermal town of Montecatini Terme. It offers classic-style rooms with air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi in public areas.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Sat 23 May

9

£639

Sun 23 August

9

£639

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£179

Travel Insurance

£40

Singles: The Italian Dolomites L DOUB

E/TW

I N RO

AB AVAIL OMS

LE

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 2 nights bed & breakfast en route 5 nights half board in resort Welcome drink Salad buffet with all evening meals Escorted excursion to the Dolomites Guided tour of Verona Visits to Verona & Lake Garda Visit to an organic farm with apple juice and cider tasting Escorted visit to castles and lakes of Trentino Grappa tasting at local brewery

HOTEL 3 Hotel Fai, Fai della Paganella Dolomites alps, Mountain © TomasSereda

Day 1 – Crossing the Channel we head south with an overnight stop.

Day 2 – We continue to our hotel in Italy. On arrival we enjoy a welcome drink.

Day 3 – A guide will join our group today for an excursion around the Dolomites. We then visit an organic farm for a tasting of the fresh apple juice and cider.

Day 4 – We visit Trento, where we have arranged an escorted tour. After some free time we visit the famous Ferrari Wine Cellar to discover how the local sparkling wine is made.

Day 5 – We visit Lake Tenno before continuing to a local distillery for a Grappa tasting.

Day 6 – We travel to Verona where we will be met by a guide for a tour around the city.

Later we will take you to Lake Garda.

Day 7 – We return to our overnight hotel.

Day 8 – We retrace our footsteps back home to the East Midlands.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Situated close to the Paganella ski slopes, all rooms at our hotel boast views of the surrounding Alps. The rooms feature classic decoration and light wood furniture.

DATE

Mon 5 October

DAYS

PRICE FROM

8

£669

Single Room Supplement

NIL

Travel Insurance

£40

53

NEW Northern Italy Featuring the Sordevolo Passion Play E XC U

TO RS I O N

MILA

N

View of Turin city centre © zm_photo

INCLUDES Passion Plays are famous for the portrayal of Jesus’ life, including his teachings and miracles, and his resurrection to show the context in which his death took place. Held Return Channel crossing every five years, the Sordevolo Passion Play enacts 29 scenes tracing the life of Jesus Coach travel throughout and his Resurrection and includes over 400 actors drawn from the community. The 5 nights bed & breakfast plays offer a more intimate experience and you can follow the performance in English 4 dinners at the hotel with a supplied earpiece.

1 dinner at a local restaurant in Sordevolo before the Passion Play we catch a boat across to Isola Bella - one Ticket to the Passion Play (Category 4) Day 1 – We travel to our overnight hotel. of the most admired destinations on Lake Excursions to Turin & Milan Day 2 – We continue our journey crossing Maggiore. Isola Bella is dominated by its *Optional excursion to Isola Bella & The stunning Baroque palace, with luxuriant into Italy and head for our hotel on the Borromean Palace £40 per person Italian-style gardens. A stroll through the shores of Lake Viverone. gardens will lead you to the amphitheatre, HOTEL 3 an elaborate construction on three levels Day 3 – This morning we visit the elegant Hotel Royal, Viverone with walls decorated with stones. From and gracious city of Turin with its wide avenues and squares lined by beautiful here you can walk to the upper terrace, arcaded buildings. Highlights here include which boasts a magnificent panoramic Hotel Royal is right on the shores of Viverone Lake.

Palazzo Madama, a 13th century castle, view of the mountains surrounding the It offers typical cuisine in a panoramic restaurant, an and Palazzo Reale, the former Royal gulf. This evening we head to Sordevolo outdoor swimming pool and outdoor hot tubs. All the Palace. where you will take your seats for the rooms include air conditioning, free minibar and a private Passion Play which lasts approximately balcony overlooking the lake or the street. There is also Day 4 – We visit Milan, the global fashion three hours. free Wi-Fi throughout. capital where history and culture meet Italian designer chic. The Basilica di Santa Day 6 – Enjoy a day at leisure. After houses the most famous fresco in the breakfast perhaps enjoy a walk around world – “The Last Supper” by Leonardo Largo di Viverone, unlike many of the great Italian lakes, Viverone is quite da Vinci and is simply a must see! In tiny small and with the stunning Alps in the Piazza del Mercanti you will feel you’ve background here you can find absolute stepped back in to medieval times as you peace and quiet. stand in the stone market surrounded by the Palazzo delle Ragione, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, and Il Duomo – Milan’s Day 7 – We leave our resort and retrace our footsteps to our overnight hotel. cathedral.

Day 5 – Join us today for an optional excursion to Isola Bella with entrance to the Borromean Palace.* Arriving in Stresa,

Day 8 – We return home.

DATE

Tue 25 August

54 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

8

£779

Single Room Supplement

£169

Travel Insurance

£40

NEW Highlights of Corfu

Paleokastritsa, Corfu, Greece

Corfu is one of the most cosmopololitan and most beautiful islands in Greece. On this alluring stay prepare to be charmed by Corfu’s Venetian style and its many turquoise, sun-kissed beaches including Paleokastritsa.

Day 1 – We make an overnight stop en route.

Day 2 – A second day of leisurely making our way through southern Europe to our overnight hotel.

Day 3 – After breakfast we continue to Venice (Fusina) for our sailing to Corfu.

Please note, there will be dining options available at your own expense.

Day 4 – This afternoon we dock in Corfu and after a short drive we arrive at our Hotel Oasis in Perama.

Day 5 – We head to Corfu town to explore its lovely pedestrian-only centre, packed with elegant Italianate architecture.

Day 6 – Following breakfast we travel to Paleokastritsa, renowned as a Greek beauty spot. Here, we will visit the monastery – situated on a remote hill above the beach, which provides stunning views of the island and sea. Afterwards, enjoy free time by the beach or alternatively join us for an optional boat ride to the water caves.* (Open roof boats of 10) Day 7 – This afternoon we visit Achilleion Palace, built in 1890 by the Empress of Austria, Elisabeth of Bavaria (also known as Sisi) in the style of the mythical hero Achilles. The palace is filled with paintings and statues of Achilles, both in the main hall and in the lavish gardens which describes the heroic and tragic scenes of the Trojan War.

Day 8 – Today we visit Sidari, one of the most popular resorts in Corfu. The star attraction is the famous Canal D’Armour, which is a natural canal created by a series of impressive rock formations.

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 4 nights bed & breakfast en route 1 night half board en route 2 x overnight ferry sailings in inside cabin (no meals included) 7 nights half board in Perama, Corfu 1 Greek themed night at hotel Excursions to Paleokastritsa, Porto Timoni & Rovina Beach Visit to Meteora

Day 9 – Join us today for an optional excursion to the island Lefkada, considered as the caribbean of Greece, and home *Optional boat ride at Paleokastritsa to crystal clear blue sea and spectacular beaches.** We will also visit Nydri, home to £15 per person white painted houses. (early start and late **Optional excursion to Lefkada £50 per person arrival back at the hotel).

Day 10 – Today we visit the most scenic beaches on the island: Porto Timoni and Rovina Beach.

Day 11 – We bid a fond farewell to our hosts and head for mainland Greece (via a short crossing). Here, we continue to the impressive rocks of Meteora, sculptured by prehistoric rivers and crowned by monasteries, it is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Greece. Later this evening we have an overnight sailing to Ancona.

Day 12 – Travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 13 – This morning we travel to Lake Garda for free time. The beautiful lakeside towns around Lake Garda have charmed visitors for centuries. Tonight, we will be staying at an overnight hotel.

While visiting the monasteries at Meteora you will be required to cover your shoulders and skirts/shorts not covering your knees will not be allowed.

HOTEL 3 Hotel Oasis, Perama Hotel Oasis is situated in the beautiful Perama area, one of the most central locations on the island. The hotel is situated right on the beach, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful gardens and boasts a private beach area with a swimming pool and sunbeds. Many of its bright and simply furnished rooms offer balconies, with gorgeous Ionian Sea Views, and air-conditioning.

Please note: There is a bus stop right in front of the hotel, with frequent connections to Corfu Town and other popular villages.

DATE

Fri 22 May

DAYS

PRICE FROM

15

£1,249

Day 14 – We depart to our overnight hotel.

Single Room Supplement

£229

Day 15 – We return home.

Travel Insurance

£50

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

55

Costa Brava, Barcelona & Girona S TA PA

& GL

F SA ASS O

NGRI

A

Park Guell in Barcelona, Spain © MasterLu

With mountainous backdrops and staggering hidden coves, Costa Brava is one of the prettiest regions in Spain. On our enchanting stay discover Calella’s miles of golden beaches, as well as the traditional and charming resorts of Girona and Besalu that wrap around old towns of cobbled lanes, plazas and delightful tapas bars.

Day 1 – We travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 2 – Relax on board our comfortable coach as we travel to Calella.

free time, we travel to Besalu for some more free time. This unique town is a magnificent example of a medieval Spanish town.

Day 3 – Explore Calella in your own time today. The town is known as the holiday capital of the Costa del Maresme, with its lively outdoor terraces, restaurants and glorious beaches.

Day 6 – Enjoy some free time in Calella and perhaps explore the old part of town, where a maze of cobbled streets surrounds the ancient church of Santa Maria.

Day 4 – No holiday to Catalonia would be complete without a visit to beautiful Barcelona, the cosmopolitan seaside city, with a history among the oldest in Europe.

Visit the Park Guell, one of Gaudi’s major works for spectacular views over the city or head to the Sagrada Familia – now the emblem of Barcelona – this incredible unfinished cathedral was the work of architect Antoni Gaudi.

Day 7 – Today you can join us for an optional excursion to Montserrat, a rocky mountain range and Santa Maria de Montserrat, a Benedictine monastery, that sits at the top of the mountain.

Inside this fascinating monastery is a statue of the Virgin of Montserrat, one of the few black Madonnas in Europe and is Catalonia’s most important religious retreat.* For those of you who don’t wish to join us, you can enjoy a day at leisure.

Please note: Price does not include any of the Monserrat Funiculars.

Day 5 – Our first visit today is to Girona, renowned for its medieval architecture, walled Old Quarter and the Roman remains of the Forca Vella Fortress.

Walk along the ancient fortress walls for breathtaking views, discover the splendour of the wonderfully preserved Jewish Quarter or visit its spectacular Placa de la Catedral, used during the filming of Game of Thrones. After some

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 2 nights bed & breakfast en route 6 nights half board in Calella Farewell appetizer includes tapas and a glass of Sangria on day 7 Excursions to Barcelona, Girona & Besalu *Optional excursion to Monsterrat £20 per person (minimum numbers are required)

HOTEL 3 Hotel Volga, Calella

The popular Hotel Volga is located just a short walk from the beach, the relaxed rooms feature private balconies and free Wi-Fi.

Day 8 – We bid a fond farewell to our hosts and return to our overnight hotel.

Day 9 – We continue our journey to the East Midlands.

56 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Sat 6 June

9

£699

Wed 16 September

9

£699

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£229

Travel Insurance

£40

Exploring Portugal

Lisbon, Portugal © SeanPavonePhoto

Enjoy Portugal’s sun-kissed beaches, medieval architecture and captivating history on INCLUDES our jam-packed holiday. Discover an itinerary that is filled with cultural diversity and Return ferry sailings spectacular beauty as we visit Salamanca, Coimbra, Porto, Fatima, Lisbon, Cascais and Coach travel throughout Figueira da Foz. 2 nights cabin accommodation en-route Day 1 – With comfort stops en-route we travel to Plymouth for our overnight sailing to Santander. Please note: Meals are available on board but not included.

Day 2 – Travel to our overnight hotel near Salamanca for 2 nights.

Day 3 – After breakfast we travel to Salamanca for free time. Nicknamed La Dorada (The Golden One) for its sandstone buildings that appear to glow, Salamanca is a magical destination that boasts top-rate history, culture, food and attractions.

Day 4 – Enjoy a leisurely journey to the Hotel Mercure in Figueira da Foz, where we will be spending 3 nights. On our way to the hotel we’ll visit Coimbra for free time. Steeped in history, this was Portugal’s medieval capital for more than a century and is home to the country’s oldest and most prestigious university.

Day 5 – Enjoy the sun and sea in Figueira da Foz. Day 6 – We visit Porto for free time. Recently voted Best European Destination, Porto is a fascinating and vibrant city, boasting an extensive historical centre that has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll find the main hub of the historical town at the Avenida dos Aliados, topped by the town hall and framed by the most

traditional commercial area of the city.

Day 7 – After breakfast we travel to Lisbon, the Portuguese capital, for a 3-night half-board stay. On our way to the hotel we’ll visit Fátima, one of the most important Catholic shrines in the world dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Day 8 – We visit Lisbon for free time. A trip up to the miaddourous (viewpoint) at the top of the seven hills will reward you with stunning views across the terracottaroofed houses and magnificent landmarks such as the Moorish São Jorge castle.

(inside cabin with Brittany Ferries)

3 nights bed & breakfast en route 3 nights half board in Figueira da Foz 3 nights half board in Lisbon Excursions to Salamanca, Coimbra, Porto, Fatima, Lisbon and Cascais Admission into National Place of Pena Free time in Santander & Figueira da Foz

HOTEL 4 Hotel Mercure Figueira da Foz, Figueira da Foz

HOTEL 4 Mercure Lisboa Alamada

Day 9 – Located in the Sintra Hills, we travel to Park and National Palace of Pena the greatest expression of 19th century romanticism in Portugal. The palace was built in such a way that it is visible from any point in the park and with entrance included, explore the forest and luxuriant gardens with over five hundred different species of trees. After some free time we visit Cascais for the remainder of the day.

Day 10 – After a radiant stay in Portugal we return to our overnight hotel in Santander.

Day 11 – After breakfast enjoy the full day in Santander before an evening sailing back to Plymouth.

Day 12 – Arriving back in the UK we will make a late return to the East Midlands.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Sun 6 September

DAYS

PRICE FROM

12

£1,099

Single Room Supplement

£369

Travel Insurance

£45

57

Croatia: Dubrovnik, Split & Plitvice Lakes ES C

D HO O RT E

L I DAY

The Harbour in Hvar town, Croatia © Rostislav_Sedlacek

Home to some of Europe’s most spectacular scenery, let Croatia capture your heart on our enchanting break. If you enjoy relaxing on sun-kissed beaches, exploring unspoilt beauty or steping back in time to explore ancient cities then this getaway is for you.

INCLUDES

Day 3 – After breakfast we travel to Bologna for free time. The beautifully preserved, medieval centre is compact and very easy to explore on foot. Later, we will travel to Ancona for our evening sailing over to Split, Croatia.

Please note, on days 6 and 7 there will be an early departure and late arrival.

Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout Escorted by a representative 2 nights bed & breakfast in France 1 night inside cabin accommodation with breakfast* (*1 pastry and 1 hot drink) 9 nights half board during your stay Admission into Plitvice Lakes Visits to Split, Dubrovnik (Croatia), San Paul de Vence (France) & Bologna (Italy) Free time in Omis on the Italian Riviera

Day 8 – A great way to discover Omis today is on our optional river cruise and guided tour.**

*Optional excursion to Mostar £30 per person **Optional guided tour & panorama boat ride in Omis £25 per person

Day 4 – We arrive in Split and travel to Omis, where we spend a 5-night half board stay at the family-owned Hotel Villa Dvor. Home to one of the most dramatic locations of any town on the Dalmatian coast, its backed by sheer walls of mottled grey rock topped with craggy peaks.

Day 9 – This morning we wave goodbye to our hosts at Hotel Villa Dvor as we head off to the enchanting Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. This wonderful natural phenomenon consists of 16 interconnected lakes and over 90 dazzling waterfalls of different size.

Our admission today, includes a motor boat ride and a panorama train journey (passengers to enjoy indavidually at their preferred time). Afterwards, we travel to the Hotel Omorika in Crikvenica for a 1-night stay.

Day 1 – We travel through Europe and make an overnight stop.

Day 2 – We continue to Salsomaggiore Terme and our second overnight.

Day 5 – Enjoy a visit to Split, Croatia’s second largest city. With ruins dating back to the Roman Empire, a bustling waterfront and fresh seafood served daily, Split remains one of Adriatic’s most vibrant port cities – stunningly located between mountains and the sea.

Day 6 – This morning we travel to Dubrovnik. With a spectacular location, overlooking the calm blue waters of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik is one of the world’s most captivating walled cities.

Day 7 – Relax and enjoy a day at leisure.

Alternatively, join us on an optional

excursion to Mostar. The most famous landmark here is the Stari Most, a 16th century, Ottoman-style bridge. Stretching across the Neretva river, it connects the two sides of the city.*

HOTEL 3 Hotel Villa Dvor, Omis Set above Omis on the stony slopes of the Mosor Mountains and Omis Dinara. Hotel Villa Dvor is situated by the River Cetina and is surrounded by a lovely beach area. The superb restaurant, Knez, provides a selection of appetising foods from a rich America breakfast buffet to traditional meals from “Poljica.”

Day 10 – We travel to the Itlian Riviera for a 2-night stay.

Day 11 – This afternoon we visit St Paul de Vence, one of the oldest medieval towns on the French Riviera.

Day 12 – We travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 13 – We return home.

58 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Mon 20 April

DAYS

PRICE FROM

13

£1,059

Single Room Supplement

£249

Travel Insurance

£45

NEW 4* Slovenia Featuring Zagreb & Postojna Cave Park

Lake Bled, Slovenia © Cookelma

Discover the earthly paradise of Slovenia, one of the greenest countries in the world and home to snow-capped peaks, sparkling turquoise green lakes and Venetianstyle coastlines. On our fantastic coach holiday we explore Ljubljiana, the capital of Slovenia, ancient Koper, Slovenia’s oldest city and captivating Bled, an area of outstanding natural beauty. We also give you the option to visit Postojna Cave Park with its cave formations and mysterious animals.

Day 1 – We travel to Newcastle for an overnight sailing to Amsterdam.

Day 2 – We continue to our overnight hotel.

Day 3 – We continue to the Hotel Vita which is situated in the Terme Dobrna spa park.

Day 4 – Relax your body and mind and allow yourself to be pampered as we enjoy a day at leisure. Our hotel features a modern wellness and spa complex, completed with massage and treatment rooms. The hotel spa is equipped with a sauna and a solarium and there are also indoor and outdoor thermal pools, each with a hot tub that guests can enjoy. After some rest and relaxation, you may choose to relax on the sun terrace or enjoy a leisurely walk to the 200-year old spa park, which is a casual 5-minute walk away.

Day 5 – Feeling refreshed and revitalised we visit Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital and largest city, for free time. The picturesque city is home to some fascinating attractions. Why not visit the Ljuljana Castle which offers some beautiful views of the city?

Day 6 – We visit the historical town of Koper.

Originally founded during the Middle Bronze Age. Koper still wears its great history on its sleeve and strolling along the narrow streets and past the imposing palaces and monumental architecture of the old town, one could be forgiven for thinking they were in Italy, especially given the fact that all street signs are in both Slovenian and Italian. Please note, early departure and late arrival.

INCLUDES 2 nights bed & breakfast on a ferry 2 nights half board in Germany 1 night half board in Austria 7 nights half board in Slovenia at Hotel Vita Hotel entertainment (Fri – Sat night at Hotel Vita) Bathrobe rental included at Hotel Vita Unlimited access to swimming pool in Hotel Vita Excursions to Ljubljiana, Koper, Bled, Kranj & Salzburg *Optional excursion to Postojna Cave £20 per person

Day 7 – This morning we visit Bled, Slovenia’s most popular resort town set beside the mesmerising Lake Bled. Whilst you’re here perhaps catch a pletna (boat) and visit the church on Bled Island, the centrepiece of Bled. Why not enjoy the gorgeous views with a leisurely stroll around the lake before finding a lakeside café and indulging on some Bled cream cake, the regional dessert. After HOTEL 4 some free time, we travel to Kranj for the Hotel Vita, Terme Dobrna remainder of the day.

Day 8 – Today you can join us for an optional excursion to the Postojna Cave, to see the Located in the “Terme Dobrna” spa park, Hotel Vita features a world’s most magnificent cave formations modern wellness and spa complex near Celje in Northeastern and diverse fauna. During our guided tour Slovenia. we will enjoy an unforgettable ride on the world’s first underground train and learn about the most important karst features! The largest a 16-meter-high stalagmite known as the Skyscraper. See the Brilliant, the oldest underground post office in the world and the most famous underground animal, the olm or the human fish! Please wear appropriate clothing.* Day 9 – Enjoy free time in our resort.

Day 10 – We depart to our overnight hotel via a leisurely stop in Salzburg.

Day 11 – We begin our return journey as we travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 12 – We continue to Amsterdam to sail back to the UK overnight.

Day 13 – We continue our journey home.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Fri 4 September

DAYS

PRICE FROM

13

£999

Single Room Supplement

£279

Travel Insurance

£45

Please note: All ferry crossings include a standard inside cabin with bunk beds, to upgrade your cabin option please call our Reservation Team on 08456 66 55 44*

59

NEW Best of Berlin & Warsaw

Brandenburg Gate at sunset © Sborisov

Join us as we embark on an exploration through the heart of Germany and Poland, discover ancient city squares and streets unchanged since medieval times. Enjoy guided tours of Berlin, Poznan and Warsaw and visit palaces full of history and culture.

Day 1 – We travel to Newcastle, where we will board our ferry for an overnight sailing to Europe.

Day 2 – We continue our journey east, arriving at the former Prussian capital, Berlin.

Day 3 – There’s so much to see in Berlin that we have arranged a tour for you. Led by an experienced guide, you can explore the sights and monuments of the city including: the Brandenburg Gate, Paris Square, the Reichstag, the Victory Column, the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, the site of Hitler’s Bunker and Alexanderplatz.

Later, we will return to the hotel for dinner.

Day 4 – After breakfast we travel to Poznan, voted one of ‘European Best Destinations’ in 2019. Many believe it to be the first capital of Poland and the birthplace of the Polish nation when Duke Mieszko I was baptized here, joining the ranks of medieval European rulers. Today, we have included a guided tour for you to enjoy before we continue to our hotel in Warsaw, Poland.

Day 5 – This morning we enjoy a guided city tour of the Polish capital, then in the afternoon visit the tiny village of Zelazowa Wola, which is the birthplace of Frédéric

INCLUDES

2 overnight sailings (cabin only) with live entertainment on board Coach travel throughout 2 nights half board in Berlin Chopin, famous composer and pianist.

3 nights half board in Warsaw Here we can explore the resorted country 1 night half board in Bad Oeynhausen house and extensive gardens where he was Guided tours of Berlin, Poznan & Warsaw born, you may even witness a piano recital Visits to Chopin’s Birth Place, Wilanow Palace or concert which occasionally take place & Warsaw Palace of Culture & Science here.

Day 6 – This morning we visit Wilanow Palace, often referred to as the ‘Polish Versailles’. Our guided tour will reveal the palace as one of Poland’s national treasures. After free time in Warsaw we visit the palace of Culture and Science – the highest and most recognisable building in the city. Perhaps enjoy the panoramic view from the 30th floor observation deck.

Day 7 – After breakfast we head for the German spa town of Bad Oeynhausen for an overnight stay. Situated on the banks of the River Weser, the town has a 40 metre high salt water fountain the most highly carbonated water in the world.

HOTEL 3 City Hotel Berlin City East

Our hotel offers spacious and comfortable bedrooms which include satellite TV and private bathrooms.

HOTEL 3 Ibis Warszawa Stare Miasto, Poland

Located within a 10-minute walk of the beautiful Warsaw Old Town, the hotel offers spacious and classically furnished rooms.

Day 8 – Following a leisurely morning, we travel to Amsterdam for our overnight sailing.

Day 9 – We return home.

60 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Tue 14 July

DAYS

PRICE FROM

9

£899

Single Room Supplement

£249

Travel Insurance

£40

Little Trains and Boats of the Rhine Valley ENHA

ITIN NCED

ERAR

Y

Drachenfelsbahn

Journey through a storybook landscape filled with forests, enchanting towns and INCLUDES villages, bound together by the stunning Rhine river. Our break is an incredible way Return Channel crossing to enjoy the famous river valley as we journey on the Drachenfels Railway and the Vulkan Express as well as enjoy a relaxing boat cruise to Königswinter and an optional Coach travel throughout 4 nights half board excursion to the dramatic Ahr Valley.

Boat trip from Konigswinter to Linz Ahr Valley? Our full-day visit will include Day 1 – We set sail across the Channel and Train ride on Drachenfelsbahn & a return journey on an Ahr Valley Train, continue to the Hotel Pinger in Remagen. the Vulkan Express entrance, and a tour and tasting at Visit to Andernach and the cold-water geyser Mayschoss Wine Cellar and a delightful Day 2 – Today we have arranged a journey horse drawn carriage ride through the on the Drachenfels Railway – this historic *Optional Ahr Valley Excursion £50 per person Mönchsberg Vineyard.* rack railway is one of only four still in operation in Germany and runs from Day 4 – We travel to Brohl, where we have Königswinter to the stunning Drachenfels HOTEL 3 Mountain. After our incredible journey, we arranged a journey on the Vulkan Express (Diesel Service) to Engeln. Although named Hotel Pinger, Remagen then enjoy a boat ride from Königswinter the ‘express,’ this slow-moving train takes to Linz am Rhein. Situated on the banks one and a half hours to travel 11 miles, of the River Rhein, this medieval town giving you plenty of time to relax and take Centrally located guest rooms have hairdryers, satellite TV’s and of fine old buildings and castles has an telephones. The hotel has a sunny terrace, cosy beer bar, café in the acres of beautiful scenery. We then atmospheric feel and bustling marktplatz, and evening entertainment. take you to Andernach, where we visit where you can shop for souvenirs and the world’s highest cold-water geyser, a bargains. spectacular natural phenomenon that erupts every two hours with an impressive Day 3 – Spend today in the comfort of our water fountain rising to 200ft into the sky! hotel. After breakfast perhaps wander After some free time in Andernach, we out in to the historic streets and visit the return to the hotel. famous bridge across the Rhine that was destroyed in World War II and has never Day 5 – After breakfast we begin our been re‐built. It remains a memorial, return journey home. towering over the city. Why not join us for an optional excursion to the incredible

DATE

Mon 13 July

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£389

Single Room Supplement

£69

Travel Insurance

£30

61

NEW 4* Tyrolean Experience Featuring the Alm Festival

Innsbruck aerial panoramic © Saiko3p

INCLUDES

The Almabtrieb is one of the main highlights of the Tyrolean festival calendar. It marks the closing of the high alpine pastures, when the cows come back down to the valley in all their finery. Experience a range of Tyrolean highlights, including the Openair Museum of Tyrolean Farms and the provincial capital city of Innsbruck.

Day 1 – We travel across northern Europe with an overnight stop.

a fascinating glimpse into the traditional world of Tyrolean life.

Day 2 – We continue to our main hotel in Oberndorf, Austria.

Day 5 – Enjoy a picturesque round trip through the Alps this afternoon, stopping in the internationally renowned town of Kitzbuhel, home to the rich and famous.

Wander through the streets and enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride though this delightful alpine town. Afterwards we visit a traditional cheese dairy farm and learn about alpine cheese production and experience every day working life on the farm.

Day 3 – The Tyrolean village of Soll hosts the annual Alm Festival each year in late September. The fair begins with the “Almabtrieb,” or closing of the mountain pastures. The farmers’ herds, after spending the summer in the high mountain pastures, are decorated with spectacular headdresses and brought down to the valley for the winter months.

Festivities continue with the local brass band and dancing troupe in traditional dress of lederhosen and pretty dirndl dresses. Market stalls display and sell local wares and specialities. Join in the fun and experience this truly festive occasion, Tyrolean style. We return to our hotel by mid-afternoon.

Day 4 – We visit Rattenberg, the oldest and smallest town in Tyrol, which is known as the Tyrolean home of glass and crystal. Here we visit one of the showrooms and observe the artisans at work painting and engraving crystal and glassware. We continue to Kramsach, the museum founded in 1974 which is home to the restored Tyrolean Farmhouses some dating back to 1620, which offers

Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 2 nights bed & breakfast en route 5 nights half board in Austria Welcome drink in Austria A folklore evening Visits to the Tyrolean Alm Festival, Rattenberg and the Glassrooms & the Tyrolean Farmhouse Museum Visit to a traditional cheese farm with a tasting Visit to the Schnapps Museum with a small tasting Excursion to Kitzbuhel Visit to Innsbruck with a guided tour Horse-drwan carriage ride in Kitzbuhel

HOTEL 4 Kaiser Hotel Kitzbüheler Alpen

Alpen hotel rooms all have a balcony offering Alpine Day 6 – Innsbruck is the regional capital views, flat screen TV and free Wi-Fi. Facilities include a of Tyrol and former seat of the House of bar, café, fitness room, sauna and whirlpool. The hotel is Habsburg, that ruled much of Europe for located next to the cable car station. over 300 years. Our tour will show you the city highlights which include the most famous landmark of all, the Golden Roof.

Innsbruck was host of the Winter Olympic Games in 1964 and 1976, and the giant ski jump towers over the town. Enjoy some free time in the city before we continue to a Tyrolean Schnapps Museum and learn how schnapps is distilled, then enjoy tasting some of the local firewater.

Day 7 – After breakfast we depart to our overnight hotel.

Day 8 – We retrace our footsteps home.

62 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Thu 17 September

DAYS

PRICE FROM

8

£739

Single Room Supplement

£139

Travel Insurance

£40

NEW The Heart of Europe: Vienna, Budapest & Prague

Vienna © Xbrchx

INCLUDES

Experience the heart of Europe on our fascinating Skills Holidays adventure. Be inspired by walking tours of the enchanting cities of Prague and Vienna and discover the stunning sights with visits to Bratislava and Reims. Want even more? Then join us for our optional excursion and walking tour of Budapest.

Day 1 – We travel to Newcastle for an overnight sailing to Amsterdam.

Day 2 – We travel through Europe stopping overnight.

Day 3 – After breakfast we visit Prague.

On our fascinating guided walking tour this morning, you can admire the glorious architecture of the historic centre and see some of the city’s most iconic attractions including Prague Castle, Europe’s largest castle complex and the Astronomical Clock. Later, we will take you to our hotel for a 2-night half board stay.

Day 4 – Explore Prague at your own pace today, don’t forget about Wenceslas Square.

Day 5 – We visit Bratislava, the vibrant capital of Slovakia for free time. Home to a beautiful medieval centre, complete with narrow, winding streets and a striking hilltop castle looking down over the River Danube.

Day 6 – Shortly after breakfast we travel to Vienna, where we have arranged a

guided walking tour. Our guide will tell fascinating stories of Vienna’s history, culture and politics as we visit some of the city’s top attractions including: Heldenplatz (Hero’s Square), where Adolf Hilter made his 1938 annexation speech, St Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Imperial Palace.

Day 7 – Today you can join us for an optional visit to the twin cities of Buda and Pest that sit either side of the majestic River Danube. Highlights include the former Royal Palace on the Buda side, and the busting markets and shops of Pest.*

Return channel crossing Coach travel throughout Overnight Sailing with bed & breakfast with live entertainment onboard (Newcastle to Amsterdam) 1 night half board in Dresden 2 nights half board in Prague 3 nights half board in Bratislava 1 night half board in Karlsruhe 1 night bed & breakfast in Reims Excursions to Prague, Bratislava, Vienna, Reims *Optional Excursion to Budapest with a walking tour included £30 per person

HOTEL 4 Austria Trend Hotel Bratislava

Situated on the edge of Bratislava’s pedestrianized Old Town, the Austria Trend Hotel Bratislava offers free wireless internet in all rooms and suites, a sauna and fitness facilities.

Day 8 – We travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 9 – After breakfast we head for Reims, the city of coronations and champagne! We will spend one night here. During your free time, be sure to visit the jewel of the city – the Notre-Dame Cathedral, nicknamed the Cathedral of Angels.

Day 10 – We return home.

DATE

Sat 9 May

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

10

£929

Single Room Supplement

£339

Travel Insurance

£40

63

Winter Wonderland on the Swiss Glacier Express H OT E

E RTA L ENT

INME

NT

Swiss Glacier Express © EnolaBrain

All aboard! You won’t want to miss our incredible journey on the world famous Swiss Glacier Express, on our very special coach holiday. This exhilarating rail journey takes you through some of Europe’s most beautiful and dramatic scenery. During our stay we also enjoy a warming winter punch on arrival, nightly entertainment and a romantic sleigh ride in the snowy Hittisau, as well as admission into the Rolls-Royce Museum and visits to Kloster, Davos, Vaduz & Altdorf.

Day 1 – We travel through Europe making an overnight stop.

Day 2 – This morning we continue our journey to Hotel Weisses Kreuz in Feldkirch. On arrival we will be welcomed with a delicious winter punch and some information on the area, including a map to help us get the most out of our stay.

Day 3 – After breakfast we visit Klosters, an elegant chalet-style village that is Prince Charles’ favourite ski-resort. After some free time, we then take you to Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein. This postage-stamp sized city hugs the banks of the Rhine and is crowned by turreted castles, it’s location is visually stunning.

Day 4 – Invigorated by breakfast, we journey through Bregenzerwald, past breathtaking views until we reach Hittisau.

Here, a sleigh will be waiting to take you on a romantic trip through the snowy hillside with a home-distilled schnapps served along the way! Afterwards, we will visit Schwarzenberg. Located in the picturesque Bregenzerwald Forest, this

INCLUDES

Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 2 nights bed & breakfast en route 4 nights half board in Feldkirch Winter punch on arrival Hotel entertainment charming destination is considered one Info-folder with a map, postcard & brochure of the nicest villages in the area. On our Journey on the Glacier Express way back to the hotel we will take you to Dornbirn, which is home to the impressive Sleigh ride in the Bregenzerwald Admission in to the Rolls-Royce Museum Rolls Royce Museum.

Visits to Klosters, Davos, Vaduz & Altdorf A souvenir of Austria Day 5 – Our first stop today is Altdorf.

Located in the ower Reuss Valley this small town is most famous for being the HOTEL 4 home of the folk hero of Switzerland, Hotel Weisses Kreuz, Feldkirch William Tell. After a little free time, we continue to Andermatt. Here, we will board the Swiss Glacier Express, the most Family-owned since 1852, the Weisses Kreuz in Feldkirch offers famous railway journey in the world!

Alpine-style, tastefully furnished and spacious bedrooms with On this incredible journey you will enjoy free Wi-Fi provided. spectacular views as we travel through the Oberalp Pass and the breathtaking Rhine Gorge before reaching Chur. Here our coach will be waiting to take us back to our hotel.

Day 6 – After breakfast we will be gifted a complimentary souvenir from the hotel before we retrace our footsteps back through Europe returning to our overnight hotel.

Day 7 – We return home.

DATE

Sat 25 January

64 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

7

£649

Single Room Supplement

£99

Travel Insurance

£36

NEW Baltic Explorer & Best of St. Petersburg

Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood, St Petersburg © Thomas Sereda2

From the magnificent church domes in St. Petersburg and cobbled streets in Tallin, INCLUDES to the Scandanavian capitals of Stockholm and Copenhagen, this magnificent Baltic 2 nights bed & breakfast on overnight ferry Explorer will take you on a voyage of discovery which includes admissions into St (Newcastle to Amsterdam) Isaac’s Cathedral, Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood and the Hermitage Museum. 4 overnight sailings with bed & breakfast en route 4 nights half board en route Day 1 – We travel to Newcastle for our includes a caviar and champagne reception 4 nights bed & breakfast en route overnight sailing. an English-speaking guide, a folk show and a Visits to St. Isaac’s Cathedral & Gala dinner.** State Hermitage Museum Day 2 – We continue to our overnight hotel.

Excursions to St. Petersburg, Copenhagen, Day 8 – Free time in St. Petersburg or Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Riga & Klaipeda Day 3 – Enjoy a full day in Copenhagen, one perhaps purchase our ‘Palace Package’ of Europe’s oldest and most popular cities.

After some free time, we’ll continue to our second overnight hotel near Helsingborg.

Day 4 – After breakfast we visit Stockholm for free time. Perhaps join us for an optional walking tour here, which you can book as part of our walking tour package.* The capital city of Sweden combines modern attractions with historic charm.

Day 5 – Enjoy free time in Stockholm. This afternoon we will have an overnight sailing to Helsinki (with breakfast included on board).

Day 6 – This morning we arrive in Helsinki, the capital of Finland, where we will be spending the day. Here, you can join us on another optional walking tour!* This vibrant, compact city is easily explored on foot and is packed full of great design, architecture, culture, beautiful islands and green parks.

This evening we will have an overnight sailing to St. Petersburg (with breakfast included on board).

Day 7 – Enjoy free time in St. Petersburg, alternatively you can join us for an optional guided tour – a great way to see some of the major attractions and sights.* Tonight, you can upgrade your dinner to a Russian Night at Nikolayevski Palace, the evening

(additional £70 pp) this includes admission into Catherine Palace and Peterhof Gardens.

Day 9 – Today we have included admission to the State Hermitage Museum, one of the world’s largest and most prestigious museums. Later we visit St Isaac’s Cathedral.

This evening we will have an overnight sailing to Tallinn in Estonia.

Day 10 – We arrive in Tallinn and spend the afternoon at leisure. Alternatively join us for our optional walking tour.* After some free time, we travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 11 – We visit the Latvian capital of Riga for some free time. Today there will also be an optional walking tour.* We spend tonight here.

Day 12 – We travel to Klaipéda and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. This evening we will have an overnight sailing to the German port of Kiel.

Day 13 – We travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 14 – We travel to Amsterdam for an overnight sailing to Newcastle.

Day 15 – We return home.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

*Optional walking tour package includes: Stockholm, Helsinki, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Riga (additional £55 per person) **Russian Themed Evening at Nikolayevski Palace (upgrade for £70 per person) Visa registration fees & support letter included Please note: All ferry crossings include a standard inside cabin with twin beds, to upgrade your cabin option please call our Retail Team on 08456 66 55 44*

HOTEL 4 Hilton Saint Petersburg Expofoum, St Petersburg Our hotel is within 12.4 miles of Saint Isaac’s Cathedral, State Russian Museum, Admiralty Building, Palace Square and Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood. Facilities include an indoor swimming pool, whirpool and sauna.

DATE

Sat 8 August

DAYS

PRICE FROM

15

£1,769

Single Room Supplement

£629

Travel Insurance

£50

Please note: Date is subject to change depending on sailing schedules which will be released at a later date.

65

Canal Festival Amsterdam UNIQ

ENT UE EV

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 3 nights bed & breakfast Visits to Amsterdam, Hoorn & Volendam *Optional canal evening cruise with a pizza or burger served on board £40 per person Please note: The Canal Festival will not be observed from the cruise as canals where the concerts take place will be closed.

HOTEL 4

Hotel NH Bussum Jan Tabak

Amsterdam © Yasonya

Day 1 – We travel to our Dutch hotel in Bussum.

Day 2 – Visit the beautiful cities of Hoorn and Volendam for free time.

Day 3 – After a leisurely breakfast we travel to Amsterdam to experience the Canal Festival. Perhaps find a spot in a nearby café and watch in awe, as the concerts are performed on stages around the city and even on the water, where the musicians stand on pontons. Tonight, you can join us for an optional evening canal cruise. Enjoy gorgeous sightseeing in a state-of-the-art boat as we visit the most famous and beautiful attractions in Amsterdam before feasting on a delicious Black Angus beef burger or gourmet pizza.

Along the way, there will be unlimited free drinks available (soda, beer and wine only).* Day 4 – We retrace our steps back home.

NH Jan Tabak is a luxurious hotel in Bussum. The well-kept accommodations have a charming ambiance. Each has free Wi-Fi, coffee and tea making facilities and a bathroom with a bath.

DATE

Thu 13 August

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£299

Single Room Supplement

£99

Travel Insurance

£30

NEW Valkenburg & Lights of Liege Nocturnal Festival UNI

VEN QUE E

T

INCLUDES Return ferry sailing Coach travel throughout 3 nights half board Visits to Liege & Maastricht Free time in Valkenburg

HOTEL 3 Hotel Walram, Valkenburg Hotel Walram is a comfortable, modern and cosy hotel, housed in a typical marlstone building. The hotel is situated in a quiet square on the banks of the small river De Guel and the town centre is just a short walk away. Hotel Walram provides a swimming pool, a sauna and solarium, a cosy bar and a restaurant.

Candles

Day 1 – We begin our journey to the Hotel Walram in Valkenburg.

Day 2 – Enjoy some free time to explore Valkenburg. Later, we visit Liége for the fascinating Lights of Liége event. On the night of the first Saturday of October, thousands of candles and flaming torches illuminate the Montagne de Bueren staircase that plunge down from the Citadel, as well as a labyrinth of courtyards, historic monuments, Medieval terraces and narrow paths. To finish off this enchanting evening there will be a spectacular firework display at 10:30pm (local time).

Day 3 – This afternoon we visit Maastricht for free time.

Day 4 – We retrace our footsteps home.

66 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Fri 2 October

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£279

Single Room Supplement

£49

Travel Insurance

£30

NEW Brussels Flower Carpet CITY C

E

H OT NTRE

EL

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing 3 nights bed & breakfast Free time in Brussels *Optional excursion to Liege £20 per person

HOTEL 3

Hotel Ibis Brussels City Centre Ibis Brussels City Center offers modern yet simple rooms in the centre of Brussels, only 600 yards from Grand Place. This airconditioned hotel includes a 24-hour front desk and has a cosy bar with traditional wooden décor.

© Brussels Flower Carpet

Day 1 – Enjoy a leisurely journey to the Hotel Ibis in Brussels city centre.

Day 2 – After breakfast, beat the crowds and head down to the La Grand-Place to enjoy the sensational Flower Carpet (our hotel is approximately a 7-minute walk away), which is created using almost a million beautiful begonias. La Grand-Place is renowned for its decorative and aesthetic wealth and is considered to be one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Day 3 – Enjoy another day at leisure, or alternatively join us for an optional visit to Liége.

Holding the title of “Most Visited City in Wallonia” (Belgium’s French-speaking region), Liége attracts visitors near and far with its folksy charm and quirky architecture.* Day 4 – We retrace our footsteps home.

DATE

Thu 13 August

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£369

Single Room Supplement

£139

Travel Insurance

£30

NEW 4* Valentines in Central Paris CITY C

E

H OT NTRE

EL

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 3 nights bed & breakfast Free time in Paris *Optional excursion to the Palace of Versailles £35 per person

HOTEL 4 Novotel Paris Centre Tour Eiffel The Novotel Paris Centre Tour Eiffel is within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower. The hotel features spacious bedrooms with en suite facilities and internet access, as well as an indoor heated swimming pool and two restaurants.

Couple in Paris © Encrier

Day 1 – Sit back and relax as we travel to our hotel in Paris.

Day 2 – Enjoy free time in Paris, one of the most influential cities in the world.

Day 3 – After breakfast enjoy free time in Paris. Alternatively, join us for an optional excursion to the Palace of Versailles, home of French royalty up until the French Revolution.* Day 4 – We retrace our footsteps back home.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Thu 13 February

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£299

Single Room Supplement

£179

Travel Insurance

£30

67

NEW Puy du Fou: Best Living History Park in the World MAN

A

UR FAVO S ’ R E G

ITE

Puy du Fou, Le Signe du Triomphe © Stéphane Audran

Located in Western France, the second most visited theme park in the country has won several international awards including “World’s Best Theme Park”. Founded in 1977, the park offers a spectacular stroll through history with fantastic reenactments and unique attractions across the centuries. Relive the fury of the circus games, feel the rhythm of the knight’s horseback stunts in a chivalrous epic show, experience a moving swashbuckling adventure and watch the unforgettable aerial ballet of the birds.

Day 1 – We travel to Portsmouth, where we will board our cruise ship before sailing overnight to France.

Day 2 – We arrive this morning in St Malo and continue to Puy du Fou, a historical theme park, where we have included a 2-day entrance ticket with admission into 2 shows, located in the grounds of the ruined castle. Admission includes access to more than 50-acres, where you will discover a splendid natural park with over 25 incredible shows (by day and by night). There are four authentic period villages: La Cité Médiéavle, Le Village Xviiiéme, Le Bourg 1900 and Le Fort de L’an Mil to explore. Choose from over 20 food outlets and themed restaurants with entertainment. This evening we have included entrance to Orgues de Feu. Held every evening on the old Puy du Fou lake, nymphs and sprites dance to the music of romantic musicians dressed in illuminated costumes in a fantastic symphony of fire and water. This evening, we return to our hotel.

Day 3 – After a leisurely breakfast we return to the enchanting Puy du Foy for another fun-packed day. This afternoon we will return to our hotel for the chance to freshen up before returning to Puy du Fou for the sensational Cinéscénie, the world’s biggest night-time show (which starts at approximately 10:30pm). The Puy du Fou Cinéscénie is an unmissable show, world-renowned for its 3D video projections, sumptuous décors, special effects, optical illusions and stunning light performances.

Day 4 – This morning we visit Nantes, the historical capital of Brittany. Enjoy some free time in Nantes old town, and discover the many sights and attractions including the Gothic Saint-Pierre-et-Saint Paul cathedral, the castle of the Dukes of Brittany, and the ancient Bouffay district, the oldest district of Nantes. Afterwards, we continue to Caen where we will catch our overnight ferry.

Day 5 – We arrive early in Portsmouth and continue our journey home.

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 2 nights bed & breakfast on Brittany Ferries (Inside cabin - upgrades available on request)

2 nights bed & breakfast at a hotel in Cholet (or nearby area)

2-day ticket for Puy du Fou including 2 evening shows Excursion to Nantes

HOTEL 3 Hotel TBC Your hotel will be carefully selected at a standard of 3* or above and will be confirmed to you at least six weeks prior to your departure. Or, check our website for the latest information DATE

Wed 24 June

68 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£469

Single Room Supplement

£99

Travel Insurance

£30

Mini Cruise Breaks

Enjoy low cost luxury on our tempting mini cruise breaks – a great way of experiencing the splendour of a sea-going voyage!

HOW IT WORKS: You will be collected by coach from your chosen pick-up point and transfered to your port of embarkation. Once on board you can enjoy the various facilities and entertainment as we sail away into the night. After a blissful night’s sleep in your comfortable en-suite cabin, you will awake feeling refreshed in an exciting new country.

After reboarding our coach we proceed to our destination with time to explore and enjoy it before returning to the ship.

Throughout your time on board there are a whole host of activities available for you to do. From savouring a delicious meal to winding down with a cocktail, there’s sure to be something to tickle your taste buds.

PLEASE NOTE: If you’ve chosen to travel on the Spanish Mini Cruise Break you will enjoy 2 days of excursions to various destinations in Spain.

Unless otherwise stated, meals are not included, however, a meal supplement (2 buffet breakfasts and 2 buffet dinners) can be purchased on our mini cruises. Meal Supplements for Brittany Ferries mini cruises can be purchased on the ship. For all sailings we reccommend that you bring travel adapters, alternatively these can also be purchased on board.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Entertainment on board Free time in Bruges

3

£149

P&O

Themed entertainment on 2 nights Free time in Bruges

3

£149

Mini Cruise: Northern Soul

P&O

Themed entertainment on 2 nights Free time in Amsterdam

3

£139

Fri 17 April

Keukenhof Gardens Mini Cruise

P&O

Entertainment on board Ticket to Keukenhof Gardens

3

£189

Sun 19 April

Spanish Mini Cruise & Stay

Brittany Ferries

2 nights bed & breakfast in Santander

5

£399

Mon 8 June

Mini Cruise: St Malo

Brittany Ferries

Free time in St Malo

3

£139

Fri 26 June

Mini Cruise Bruges

P&O

Entertainment on board Free time in Bruges

3

£169

DATE

DESTINATION

SAILING WITH

INCLUDES

Fri 14 February

Mini Cruise: Valentines Sailing to Romantic Bruges

P&O

Tue 17 March

Mini Cruise: Jersey Boys

Wed 18 March

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

69

Skills Mini Cruise Party to Amsterdam D JOINE

BY T

ILLS HE SK

T EA M

INCLUDES Return ferry sailings Coach travel throughout 2 nights cabin accommodation with a buffet breakfast & buffet dinner Skills promotional event with tea/coffee & Danish pastries Free time in Amsterdam *Optional canal cruise £10 per person (please enquire at the time of booking)

DFDS Cruise Ferry

Amsterdam © Neirfy

Day 1 – This afternoon we will board our cruise ferry. Once checked-in, we invite you to join us before dinner at our promotional event hosted by our Skills Holidays Team.

Throughout the event there will be tea, coffee and Danish pastries available as well as exclusive holiday discounts.

Day 2 – Accompanied by your Skills representatives, we visit the city of Amsterdam for free time. A great way to relax and take in the splendid views of the city is by joining us for our optional canal cruise as we drift along the waterways taking in Amsterdam’s many famous sights!* After some free time, we will return to our cruise ferry for this evening’s dinner and another night of entertainment.

Day 3 – After our final buffet breakfast, we return home.

Recently named the World’s Best Ferry Operator, DFDS pride themselves on excellent customer service and the crew on board are there to make your crossing memorable and enjoyable. From delicious cuisine to exciting live entertainment and cosy bars your break will begin the moment you step on board!

DATE

Sat 25 January

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£149

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£27

Mini Cruise - Amsterdam INCLUDES

Return ferry sailing Coach travel throughout 2 nights cabin accommodation Free time in Amsterdam

P&O Cruise Ferry P&O Cruise Ferries offer a comfortable and enjoyable journey every time you travel! With bars, restaurants, a casino, shops and a fabulous Show Lounge.

ADDITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS

Amsterdam houses river Amstel © Yasonya

Day 1 – We travel to Hull to meet our P&O cruise ferry. After settling into your cabin, you are free this evening to enjoy the various facilities and entertainment on board.

Day 2 – Once the ship has docked, our coach will drive you into Amsterdam where you will have free time. Discover Amsterdam’s canal-woven core laced with atmospheric narrow lanes overflowing with top museums, attractions, quirky shops and eateries.

After some free time, we will return to our cruise ferry.

Day 3 – This morning our ship will dock in Hull and we will travel back home.

70 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Outside cabin

£15 pp

Outside cabin (single supplement)

£89 pp

Low berth

£15 pp

Low berth (outside cabin)

£19 pp

Meal supplement (2 x dinner, 2 x breakfast)

£65 pp

DATE

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£179

Sat 4 July Single Room Supplement

£69

Travel Insurance

£27

Disneyland® Paris Featuring Paris Explorer CITY C

EN

OT E TRE H

L

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 3 nights bed & breakfast Disney© Park Hopper ticket Free time in Paris

HOTEL 4 Hotel Novotel Paris Créteil le Lac Located between Paris and Disneyland. It offers a restaurant, a bar and a swimming pool and is situated alongside Creteil Lake recreation park. Paris can be reached directly, via Metro line 8.

© Disneyland Paris

Day 1 – Sit back and relax as we travel to our hotel in Paris.

Day 2 – Today there are countless amazing experiences to be had for guests of all ages as we travel to Disneyland®. Set off on thrilling adventures with attractions like Big Thunder Mountain; let the kids’ imaginations soar as they experience Dumbo the Flying Elephant; soak up the magic of seeing all your favourite characters in Disney Stars on Parade, and gaze in awe at the spectacular Disney Illuminations show as it rounds off a perfect day. Throughout Disneyland® Park and Walt Disney Studios® Park, there are magical experiences waiting around every corner.

Day 3 – After breakfast we travel to Paris where you will be allowed at least 6 hours of free time.

Day 4 – We retrace our footsteps back home.

DATE

Thu 13 February

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£309

Child Price From

£189

Single Room Supplement

£99

Travel Insurance

£30

Rhineland Carnivals A S P EC T

R EV CULA

ENT

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 4 nights half board Welcome schnapps 1 hour free bar on 3 nights 2 nights entertainment (fancy dress & dancing) Visits to the carnivals in Bad-Salzig, Osterspai & Koblenz

HOTEL 3 The Hotel Wagner, Kamp Bornhofen Staying at the Hotel Wagner, you are assured of a warm welcome. This hotel is a long standing favourite amongst our customers.

Dancers holding colourful umbrellas © MesquitaFMS

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel.

Day 2 – We visit Bad Salzig, where the streets will be filled with colourful costumes, fun, music and dancing.

Day 3 – We head to the picturesque town of Osterspai, where you can see the many well-kept half-timbered houses before enjoying the carnival atmosphere.

Day 4 – This morning we take you to lovely Koblenz at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers for free time. Today on ‘Carnival Monday’ there is a huge parade through the centre of Koblenz, which draws spectators from all around the world to watch the marching bands, dancers and floats which parade through the streets!

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps back home.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Fri 21 February

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£279

Single Room Supplement

£39

Travel Insurance

£30

71

Rhine in Flames

The Rhine in Flames festival is Germany’s oldest and largest fireworks spectacular. Experience the majestic Rhine burst in to mesmerizing colours as beautifully illuminated boats sail out and firework displays light up the water.

Firework over the Rhine Valley © EKH-Pictures

Day 1 – We travel to The Hotel Wagner, in Kamp-Bornhofen.

Day 2 – Enjoy free time in Kamp-Bornhofen, alternatively join us for an optional excursion over to Koblenz, one of the most beautiful and oldest towns in Germany.* Day 3 – After an early dinner we travel to Bonn to witness the Rhine in Flames.

Day 4 – This afternoon we travel to Cochem and Boppard for free time.

Day 5 – We visit Rudesheim and Wiesbaden for free time.

Day 6 – This morning we visit Worms, one of Germany’s oldest cities.

Day 7 – We retrace our footsteps back home.

DATE

Thu 30 April

DAYS

PRICE FROM

7

£399

PRICE FROM

Single Room Supplement

£59

Day 1 – We travel to The Hotel Wagner, in Kamp-Bornhofen.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Oberwesel and Braubach for free time.

Day 3 – This morning you can choose to join us for an optional cruise to Rudesheim.* Tonight, we travel to Koblenz to witness the electrifying Rhine in Flames.

Day 4 – We travel to Cochem and Boppard for free time.

Day 5 – This morning we visit Worms and Mannheim.

Day 6 – After breakfast we visit Koblenz.

Day 7 – We retrace our footsteps back home DATE

Thu 6 August

DAYS

PRICE FROM

7

£399

PRICE FROM

Single Room Supplement

£59

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 6 nights half board and a welcome schnapps 1 hour free bar on 3 nights 2 nights entertainment with fancy dress & dancing Visit to Bonn for the Rhine in Flames event Excursions to Cochem, Boppard, Rudesheim, Wiesbaden & Worms Free time in Kamp-Bornhofen *Optional excursion to Koblenz £30pp Includes a river cruise to Braubach, cable cars & entrance to the Ehrenbreistein fortress in Koblenz

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 6 nights half board and a welcome schnapps 2 nights entertainment with fancy dress & dancing 1 hour free bar on 3 nights Visit to Koblenz for the Rhine in Flames event Visits to Oberwesel, Cochem, Boppard, Braubach, Worms & Mannheim *Optional Rhine Cruise to Rudesheim £40 per person

Day 1 – We travel to The Hotel Wagner, in Kamp-Bornhofen.

INCLUDES Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Koblenz and Braubach for free time.

Day 3 – This morning you can choose to join us for an optional cruise to Rudesheim, Return Channel crossing a picturesque winemaking town also famous for its production of Asbach Brandy Coach travel throughout that has been in production since 1892.* Tonight we travel to Obserwesel to witness 4 nights half board and a welcome schnapps the electrifying Rhine in Flames. Due to the nature of this excursion we recommend 2 nights entertainment with fancy dress & dancing bringing blankets, so you can relax whilst watching the firework displays. We will make a 1 hour free bar on 3 nights Visit to Oberwesel for the Rhine in Flames event late return to the hotel.

Visits to Cochem, Boppard, Koblenz & Braubach Day 4 – Enjoy free time in Cochem and Boppard today.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps back home. *Optional Rhine Cruise to Rudesheim £40 per person PRICE PRICE DATE

Thu 10 September

DAYS

5

FROM

£279

FROM

Single Room Supplement

72 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

£39

NEW Marvellous Rhine Valley 1 HOU

R FRE

E

N3 BA R O

NIGH

TS

INCLUDES Coach travel throughout 2 nights cabin accommodation (DFDS Seaways) 4 nights half board in Kamp-Bournhofen Welcome schnapps in Kamp-Bournhofen 2 nights entertainment (including fancy dress & dancing) at hotel Visit to Emmerich, Cochem, Boppard, Koblenz & Braubach *Optional Rhine cruise to Rudesheim £40 pp

HOTEL 3 The Hotel Wagner, Kamp Bornhofen This hotel is a long standing favourite amongst our customers.

Cochem town © Saiko3p

Day 1 – We travel to Newcastle for our overnight sailing to Amsterdam.

Day 2 – We continue to our hotel in Kamp-Bournhofen enjoying a leisurely stop at Emmerich am Rhein along the way.

Day 3 – Choose to join us for an optional return cruise to Rudesheim, a picturesque winemaking town most famous for its production of Asbach Brandy that has been in production since 1892.* Alternatively, enjoy free time to explore Kamp-Bornhofen, Day 4 – This morning we visit Cochem and Boppard for free time.

Day 5 – We visit Koblenz and the picturesque old town of Braubach.

Day 6 – We return to Amsterdam for our overnight sailing.

Day 7 – Arriving in Newcastle this morning, we continue our journey home.

ADDITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS ON BOARD DFDS

Low berth (outside cabin)

£20 pp

Single (outside cabin)

£15 pp

Meal supplement (2 x dinner, 2 x breakfast)

£70 pp

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Tue 19 May

7

£369

Sun 11 October

7

£369

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£99

Travel Insurance

£36

Rhineland Wine Festival R 1 HOU

FRE

ON E BA R

3 NIG

HTS

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 4 nights half board Welcome schnapps 1 hour free bar on 3 nights 2 nights entertainment (including fancy dress & dancing)

Visits to Cochem, Boppard & Koblenz *Optional Rhine Cruise to Rudesheim £40 pp

HOTEL 3 The Hotel Wagner, Kamp Bornhofen This hotel is a long standing favourite amongst our customers.

People drinking wine © Petrenkod

Day 1 – We travel to The Hotel Wagner, in Kamp-Bornhofen.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Cochem and Koblenz for free time.

Day 3 – This afternoon we travel to Boppard for the Wine Festival, where growers invite you to the grape harvest celebrations. Enjoy live music whilst browsing the many wine stands with tastings. In the evening marvel at the ‘Lightening Night on the Middle Rhine’, a spectacular fireworks display and a flotilla of illuminated riverboats. Extra small charge may apply to the wine festival, payable at own cost.

Day 4 – Choose to join us for an optional return cruise to Rudesheim, a picturesque winemaking town.* Alternatively, enjoy free time to explore Kamp-Bornhofen, Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps back home.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DATE

Thu 24 September

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£279

Single Room Supplement

£39

Travel Insurance

£30

73

Ostend, Bruges & Ghent U T VA L G R EA

MO E FOR

NEY

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 3 nights bed & breakfast Free time in Bruges, Ostend & Ghent

HOTEL 3 Hotel Alfa Inn, Belgium The family‐run Alfa Inn in Blankenberge offers modern accommodation and is a 5‐minute walk to the local beach.

HOTEL 3 Hotel Ter Streep, Oostende Bruges © Sorincolac

Day 1 – We travel to the Hotel Alfa Inn, in Belgium.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Bruges, the ‘Venice of the North’ famous for chocolate and lace.

Day 3 – This morning we take you to Ostend, the cosmopolitan ‘City by the Sea’. This thriving seaside and fishing port is renowned for its mussels, a delicacy in Belgium and its sea specialties, including Ostend Sole (Sole filled with shrimps and mussels).

After some free time, we visit Ghent. The best way to discover the city’s turbulent past is with a visit to Gravensteen (the Castle of the Counts) (admission not included).

Originally built in the Middle Ages, it is the only remaining medieval castle with a moat in Flanders.

Day 4 – We retrace our footsteps home.

Located less than 350 yards from Kursaal Oostende and the sandy beach our hotel offers spacious bedrooms with free Wi-Fi. DAYS

PRICE FROM

Fri 13 March

4

£239

Sat 10 September

4

£239

DATE

Single Room Supplement

CALL

Travel Insurance

£30

NEW Normandy’s Coastline: Le Havre, Honfleur & Etretat CENT

TED LO C A Y L L A R

H OT E

L

INCLUDES Return ferry sailings Coach travel throughout 4 nights bed & breakfast Excursions to Etretat, Fecamp, Honfleur & Deauville Free time in Le Harve

HOTEL 3 Hotel Mercure Le Havre Centre Bassin du Commerce Our hotel is in the historic town of Le Havre opposite the Bassin du Commerce and within walking distance to the Natural History Museum and Le Havre Cathedral. It offers air-conditioned guestrooms with LCD satellite TV and Wi-Fi.

Etretat, Normandy © Janoka82

Day 1 – We set sail to France and continue to our hotel in Le Havre.

Day 2 – Enjoy free time to explore Le Havre today, there’s a lively city centre, with good shopping and plenty of bars and restaurants. Why not visit the Oscar-Niemeyer Cultural Centre recognisable as two buildings in the form of a volcano? Or maybe you can enjoy the day by the beach.

Day 3 – We visit Étretat, renowned for the towering white chalk cliffs carved by wind and water, which tower high over the Atlantic Ocean. After some free time, we travel to Fécamp a pretty seaside port on the Alabaster Coast.

Day 4 – We visit Honfleur, home to one of the prettiest harbours in France the Vieux Bassin (old dock) before heading to Deauville for the remainder of the day.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home.

74 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Wed 29 July

5

£339

Sat 8 August

5

£339

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£99

Travel Insurance

£30

NEW Hebridean Island Adventure: Isles of Lewis, Skye & Harris ED GUID

TO U R

WIS OF LE

& HA

RRIS

INCLUDES Travel insurance Door‐to‐Door service Ferry sailings 6 nights half board Guided tour of Lewis and Harris Excursions to Isle of Skye, the isles of Uists, Lewis and Harris, Inverness & the Spey Valley Entrance into the Black Houses & Museum

HOTEL 2

Kings Arms Hotel, Isle of Skye

HOTEL 2

Isle of Benbecula House Hotel, Benbecula Small waterfall on the Isle of Skye © Elxeneize

Day 1 – We travel to our overnight hotel with comfort stops along the way.

Day 2 – We visit Fort William before travelling to the Kings Arms Hotel on the Isle of Skye.

Day 3 – After a magnificent drive across Skye, we catch the ferry to North Uist. We then take a scenic coastal drive before checking in to the Isle of Benbecula House Hotel.

Day 4 – We sail over to Lewis and Harris. Here we will enjoy a two-night stay at the 4* Caberfeidh Hotel on Stornaway.

Day 5 – Enjoy a tour of Lewis and Harris with an experienced island guide. During the day we will visit the impressive 5,000-year-old standing stones of Callanish and Carloway Broch.

Also included is entrance into the Black House Museum of ancient thatched settlements.

Day 6 – We travel to Inverness, the ‘Capital of the Highlands’. After free time we continue to our overnight hotel.

Day 7 – After an amazing trip filled with lots of incredible sights, we travel home.

HOTEL 4 Caberfeidh Hotel, Stornoway Set within in its own attractive gardens, our hotel is ideally located on the outskirts of Stornoway and regarded as its finest hotel. The Cabarfeidh provides a relaxing base for both visitors.

DATE

Mon 4 May

DAYS

PRICE FROM

7

£799

Single Room Supplement

£125

NEW Inner Hebridean Island Hopper: Arran, Islay & Skye SELL

A ST ING F

INCLUDES Travel insurance Door‐to‐Door service 6 nights half board Excursion to Oban & the Trossachs Ferry sailings to the Isle of Arran visiting Brodick Ferry sailings to the Isle of Islay with a whiskey distillery tour & tasting Ferry sailing to the Isle of Skye visiting Portree Admission into Dunvegan Castle (on the Isle of Skye) Scenic drive through the Highland countryside via Inverary and Loch Awe Photo opportunity at Glenfinnan Monument

HOTEL 3 Grey Gull Hotel, Ardrishaig

Aerial view of the coast between Gallanach and Oban © Lukassek

Overlooking Loch Gilp, the warmly decorated rooms have TV

and tea and coffee making facilities.

Day 1 – We travel to our overnight hotel with comfort stops along the way.

Day 2 – We visit Brodick on the Isle of Arran. This afternoon we sail to the Mull of Kintyre.

HOTEL 2 Day 3 – We visit the Isle of Islay a stunning island on the ‘whisky coast’ of west Scotland.

Kings Arms Hotel, Kyleakin Here we include a whiskey distillery tour and tasting.

Day 4 – Scenic drive through the Highland countryside to Oban for free time. We then visit the Glenfinnan Monument for a short photo opportunity before going ‘over the sea to Skye’ DATE to our next hotel. We’ll spend another two nights here.

Day 5 – We explore the Isle of Skye today with visits to Portree and Dunvegan Castle.

Sat 11 July Day 6 – Enjoy a lunch stop in Fort William before travelling to Loch Lomond, Queen of Scottish Lochs and to our final overnight in the Trossachs.

Single Room Supplement Day 7 – After an amazing trip filled with lots of incredible sights, we travel home.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

7

£799 £125

75

NEW Three Country Celtic Carousel Featuring Highlights of Scotland, Ireland & Wales INCLUDES Travel insurance Door-to-Door service 7 nights half board Excursions to Gretna Green, Belfast, Dublin & Betws-y-Coed Admission into Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, Culzean Castle, Titanic Belfast, Malahide Castle & Gardens & Caernarfon Castle Boat cruise on the River Liffey Guided coach tour of Belfast

HOTEL 4

The Riverside Lodge Hotel, Irvine

HOTEL 4 Ballymascanlon House Hotel, Dundalk

Day 1 – We visit Gretna Green before continuing to our Scottish hotel in Ayrshire.

On arrival tea/coffee and Scottish shortbread will be waiting for us to enjoy before dinner.

Day 2 – Visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum and Culzean Castle, one of Scotland’s best loved castles, to enjoy a guided tour with free time to explore.

Day 3 – Cross the Irish sea to Belfast continuing on to The Ballymascanlon House Hotel.

There will be welcome tea or coffee on arrival.

Day 4 – We travel to Dublin for an introductory guided cruise along the river Liffey.

Day 5 – Enjoy a guided coach tour of Belfast before visiting the Titanic Belfast.

Day 6 – This morning we visit Malahide Castle and Gardens for a guided tour. Later, we sail to the Welsh port of Holyhead and on to The Celtic Royal Hotel.

Day 7 – We visit the impressive Caernarfon Castle before enjoying free time.

Day 8 – We begin our journey home which takes us via the Snowdonia National Park.

Our family run hotel is set within 130 acres of parkland and boasts a health club, with sauna, swimming pool and hot tub.

HOTEL 3

The Celtic Royal Hotel, Caernarfon

DATE

Fri 21 August

DAYS

PRICE FROM

8

£995

Single Room Supplement

£165

NEW Potters Resort L 5* F U

L

D BA B OA R

SIS

INCLUDES Travel insurance Door‐to‐Door service 4/5 nights full board

(4 meals per day: Breakfast, lunch, dinner & a midnight dish)

Live evening entertainment every night Excursions to Kings Lynn, Great Yarmouth & Wroxham Free time in resort

HOTEL 5 Potters Resort, Hopton-on-Sea

Our break includes Standard Bungalow accommodation featuring en suite bathrooms and tea and coffee making facilities. © Potters Resort

Day 1 – Enjoy a break in Kings Lynn before arriving at our resort. During our all-inclusive stay we will enjoy four meals a day (for each full day of our break) from the two restaurants, plus award-winning evening entertainment, activities and most of the facilities.

Day 2 – We visit Great Yarmouth for free time.

Day 3 – There’s always plenty to enjoy at Potters Resort, and today you can do as much or as little as you like.

Day 4 – We visit Wroxham, situated in the heart of the Norfolk Broads for free time.

Day 5 – Enjoy free time in Norwich, the most complete city Medieval city in the UK. Final Day – We retrace our footsteps home.

76 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Sun 12 July

6

£625

Mon 19 October

5

£529

DATE

Single Room Supplement

NIL

Cruise & Maritime Voyages Skills Holidays are delighted to work together with Cruise & Maritime Voyages to offer you a tempting selection of inspirational cruises and whisk you off on an adventure of a lifetime.

Cruise & Maritime Voyages are the UK’s leading independent cruise line dedicated to providing a more traditional and leisurely style of cruising, with high levels of customer service. Their small to mid-size ships are able to access more ports of call than the large cruise ships, enabling them to offer some truly innovative itineraries.

Skills Holidays want to help make your cruising experience effortless, that’s why our aim is to offer you a hassle-free experience from the moment you place your booking with our independent travel agents, right up until the time we transport you back to your drop off point.

Magellan Ship Information

Magellan is an extremely impressive ocean cruise ship with a gleaming profile, beautiful wood style decks and a wide range of public areas and deck spaces in which to relax.

Restaurants: Waldorf & Kensington Restaurants (waiter service, varied menu) Raffles Bistro (buffet),

Fusion Restaurant (extra charges apply) Lounges & Bars: Magellan Theatre Show Lounge, Sinatra’s, Hampton’s, Taverner Pub and Captain’s Club Other facilities: Hairdressers, Beauty Studio, Sauna, Massage Studio, Card Room, Library, Gym, Shopping Gallery, 2 Outside swimming pools, 2 whirlpools, deck areas for excerise, relaxation and viewing Standard Twin Ocean View Cabin

*Extra charges may apply for some of the restaurants and extra services on board

Magellan Ship Deck Plan

12 Sun Deck 11 Navigator Deck 10 Columbus Deck 9 8

Magellan Deck Amundsen Deck

7

Pacific Upper Deck

4

Caribbean Deck

5 6

Baltic Reception Deck Atlantic Main Deck

Cabin facilities: Air conditioned | Private en-suite facilities | Shower Wardrobe | Storage space | Flat screen TV | Hairdryer | Safe

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Category Cabins

Size

Deck

1 2 3 5 6 7 7s

Standard Twin Inner Standard Plus Twin Inner Superior Twin Inner Superior Single Inner Standard Twin Ocean View Standard Twin Ocean View Standard Single Ocean View

135 sq ft 138 sq ft 143 sq ft 134 sq ft 143 sq ft 141 sq ft 141 sq ft

4 5 6 6/7 4 5/6 5/6

IG OG

Voyager Inner Guarantee Cabin Voyager Outer Guarantee Cabin

Our prices are based on Inside Voyager Cabins which are allocated by CMV and will be advised with your final documentation. Supplements apply for single and outer cabins on a similar basis to the above. You can book specific confirmed category for which an additional supplement applies. Other cabin options available on request.

77

Columbus Ship Profile

Columbus was purpose built for deep sea ocean cruising, and we believe, is ideally suited to the type of exciting scenic cruise programme we operate.

Restaurants: Waterfront (waiter service, varied menu), Fusion & Grill Restaurants (extra charges apply),

Plantation Bistro (buffet) and Alfresco Grill (bbq cuisine) Lounges & Bars: Captain’s Club, Casino, Connexions, Raffles, Travellers Pub, 2 coffee shops, 2 deck bars Entertainment: 3 deck Central Atrium, Dome Observatory & Nighclub, 2 deck Tier Palladium Show Lounge Other Facilities: Columbus Observation Lounge, Bridge & Card room, Library, Craft Studio, Gym, Beauty Studio, Fine selection of shops, 2 Outdoor Swimming Pools and Large Outdoor Cinema Screen

Standard Twin Ocean View Cabin

*Extra charges may apply for some of the restaurants and extra services on board

Columbus Ship Deck Plan

2

Caribbean Deck

4

Pacific Deck

5

Reception Deck

14

Sun Deck

6

Main Deck

12

Lido Deck

7

Promenade Deck

11

Navigator’s Deck

8

Columbus Deck

10

Upper Deck

9

Boat Deck

Cabin facilities: Air conditioned | Private en-suite facilities | Shower Storage space | Flat screen TV | Hairdryer | Safe

78 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Category Cabins

Size

Deck

1 2 3 5 6BS

7 8

Standard Twin Inner Standard Plus Twin Inner Superior Twin Inner Superior Single Inner Standard Single Ocean View (partially/fully obstructed view) Standard Twin Ocean View Standard Plus Twin Ocean View

188 sq ft 188 sq ft 188 sq ft 188 sq ft 146 sq ft

5 6/8 10 10 9

188 sq ft 188 sq ft

6 8/9

IG OG

Voyager Inner Guarantee Cabin Voyager Outer Guarantee Cabin

Our prices are based on Inside Voyager Cabins which are allocated by CMV and will be advised with your final documentation. Supplements apply for single and outer cabins on a similar basis to the above. You can book specific confirmed category for which an additional supplement applies. Other cabin options available on request.

British Isles Discovery | 12 Days CRUIS

E&M

ME V ARITI

OYAG

ES

INCLUDES Return transfers to the cruise port Full board delicious cuisine Afternoon teas and late night snacks Captain’s Cocktail Party Self service tea & coffee (6am to midnight) Entertainment, cabarets and classical interludes Daytime activities and leisure facilities Wide range of leisure facilities on board Guest speaker and arts & crafts Porterage of luggage from port to cabin Port Taxes

Portree, Isle of Skye, Scotland © Zhuzhu

DATE

SHIP

Tue 16 June

Columbus

TYPES OF CABIN UPGRADES AVAILABLE

Day 1 - London Tilbury (UK) Day 2 - Rotterdam (Netherlands) Day 3 - At Sea Day 4 - Invergordon, Scotland (UK) Day 5 - Portree, Isle of Skye (UK) Day 6 - Tobermory, Isle of Mull (UK) Day 7 - Belfast, Northern Ireland (UK)

Day 8 - Ringaskiddy for Cork (Ireland) Day 9 - St. Mary’s, Isles of Scilly (UK) Day 10 - St. Peter Port, Guernsey (Channel Islands) Day 11 - Honfleur (France) Day 12 - London Tilbury (UK)

NIGHTS

PRICE FROM

11

£1,199

UPGRADE FROM

Standard Twin Inner (Cat 1)

£49 pp

Standard Plus Twin Inner (Cat 2)

£169 pp

Superior Twin Inner (Cat 3)

£239 pp

Voyager Outside Guarantee (Cat OG)

£299 pp

Superior Single Inner (Cat 5)

£499 pp

Standard Single (Cat 6BS)

£699 pp

Full/Partically Obstructed Ocean View

British Isles Discovery | 14 Days CRUIS

E&M

ME V ARITI

OYAG

ES

INCLUDES Return transfers to the cruise port Full board delicious cuisine Afternoon teas and late night snacks Captain’s Cocktail Party Self service tea & coffee (6am to midnight) Entertainment, cabarets and classical interludes Daytime activities and leisure facilities Wide range of leisure facilities on board Guest speaker and arts & crafts Porterage of luggage from port to cabin Port Taxes SHIP

Wed 2 September

Magellan

TYPES OF CABIN UPGRADES AVAILABLE

Honfleur, France © Dvoevnore

Day 1 - Liverpool (UK) Day 2 - Dublin (Ireland) Day 3 - Bristol Portbury (UK) Day 4 - At Sea Day 5 - Honfleur (France) Day 6 - At Sea Day 7 - Invergordon, Scotland (UK)

DATE

Day 8 - Kirkwall, Orkney Islands (UK) Day 9 - Portree, Isle of Skye (UK) Day 10 - Tobermory, Isle of Mull (UK) Day 11 - Oban, Scotland (UK) Day 12 - Belfast, Northern Ireland (UK) Day 13 - At Sea Day 14 - Bristol Portbury (UK)

NIGHTS

PRICE FROM

13

£1,299

UPGRADE FROM

Standard Twin Inner (Cat 1)

£69 pp

Standard Plus Twin Inner (Cat 2)

£179 pp

Superior Twin Inner (Cat 3)

£339pp

Voyager Outside Guarantee (Cat OG)

£459 pp

Superior Single Inner (Cat 5)

£669 pp

Standard Single Oceanview (Cat 7S)

£899 pp

Terms and Conditions: Prices include savings and are from and per person based on two adults sharing a voyager twin cabin. Voyager grades and cabin numbers will be advised at ticket stage. Applies to new bookings only, may be withdrawn without notice and remain subject to availability.

Offers cannot be combined with any other offers and are rounded to the nearest ten unit fare. Gratuities at £7 per person per night (£6 per person per night on cruises over 16 nights) will be debited from your onboard account. Cruise and Maritime Voyages are offered for sale in the UK by South Quay Travel & Leisure Ltd trading as Cruise and Maritime Voyages. ABTA V9945

79

Grand British Isles Discovery | 12 Days CRUIS

E&M

ME V ARITI

OYAG

ES

INCLUDES Return transfers to the cruise port Full board delicious cuisine Afternoon teas and late night snacks Captain’s Cocktail Party Self service tea & coffee (6am to midnight) Entertainment, cabarets and classical interludes Daytime activities and leisure facilities Wide range of leisure facilities on board Guest speaker and arts & crafts Porterage of luggage from port to cabin Port Taxes DATE

SHIP

Fri 8 May

Columbus

NIGHTS

PRICE FROM

11

£1,199

Tobermory © Coultham

Day 1 - London Tilbury (UK) Day 2 - Rotterdam (Netherlands) Day 3 - At Sea Day 4 - Kirkwall, Orkney Islands (UK) - The town is a cluster of grey stone buildings lining narrow, flagstone streets.

Day 5 - At Sea Day 6 - Tobermory, Isle of Mull (UK)

TYPES OF CABIN UPGRADES AVAILABLE

Day 7 - Dublin (Ireland) Day 8 - St. Mary’s, Isles of Scilly (UK) Day 9 - St. Peter Port, Guernsey (Channel Islands) Day 10 - Honfleur (France) Day 11 - Antwerp Day 12 - London Tilbury (UK)

Faroes & Northern Isles | 7 Days S Faroes & NorthernOIsles YAG E E& CRUIS

TIME MARI

V

Standard Twin Inner (Cat 1)

£49 pp

Standard Plus Twin Inner (Cat 2)

£169 pp

Superior Twin Inner (Cat 3)

£239 pp

Standard Twin (Cat 6/Cat 7)

£439/£499 pp

Standard Plus Twin (Cat 8)

£569 pp

Superior Single Inner (Cat 5)

£529 pp

INCLUDES Return transfers to the cruise port Full board delicious cuisine Afternoon teas and late night snacks Captain’s Cocktail Party Self service tea & coffee (6am to midnight) Entertainment, cabarets and classical interludes Daytime activities and leisure facilities Wide range of leisure facilities on board Guest speaker and arts & crafts Porterage of luggage from port to cabin Port Taxes DATE

SHIP

Thu 14 May

Magellan

TYPES OF CABIN UPGRADES AVAILABLE Kirkwall © Kevin Phillips

Day 1 - Newcastle (UK) Day 2 - Dundee (Scotland) Day 3 - Kirkwall, Orkney Islands (UK) Day 4 - Lerwick, Shetland Islands (UK)

Day 5 - Tórshavn (Faroe Islands) Day 6 - At Sea Day 7 - Newcastle (UK)

UPGRADE FROM

NIGHTS

PRICE FROM

6

£799

UPGRADE FROM

Standard Twin Inner (Cat 1)

£29 pp

Voyager Outside Guarantee (Cat OG)

£229 pp

Standard Twin (Cat 6)

£259 pp

Standard Twin (Cat 7)

£279 pp

Superior Single Inner (Cat 5)

£339 pp

Standard Single Oceanview (Cat 7S)

£449 pp

Terms and Conditions: Prices include savings and are from and per person based on two adults sharing a voyager twin cabin. Voyager grades and cabin numbers will be advised at ticket stage. Applies to new bookings only, may be withdrawn without notice and remain subject to availability. Offers cannot be combined with any other offers and are rounded to the nearest ten unit fare. Gratuities at £7 per person per night (£6 per person per night on cruises over 16 nights) will be debited from your onboard account. Cruise and Maritime Voyages are offered 80 for sale in the UK by South Quay Travel & Leisure Ltd trading as Cruise and Maritime Voyages. ABTA V9945

Canary Islands & Madeira | 16 Days CRUIS

E&M

ME V ARITI

OYAG

ES

INCLUDES Return transfers to the cruise port Full board delicious cuisine Afternoon teas and late night snacks Captain’s Cocktail Party Self service tea & coffee (6am to midnight) Entertainment, cabarets and classical interludes Daytime activities and leisure facilities Wide range of leisure facilities on board Guest speaker and arts & crafts Porterage of luggage from port to cabin Port Taxes DATE

SHIP

Mon 16 March Magellan Madeira © Pkazmierczak

Day 1 - London Tilbury (UK) Day 2 - Rotterdam (Netherlands) Day 3/5 - At Sea Day 6 - Gibraltar (BCC) Day 7 - At Sea Day 8 - Arrecife, Lanzarote (Canary Islands) Day 9 - Las Palmas, Gran Canaria (Canary Islands)

Day 10 - Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Canary Islands) Day 11 - Funchal, Madeira (Portugal) Day 12 - At Sea Day 13 - Lisbon (Portugal) Day 14 - At Sea Day 15 - At Sea Day 16 - London Tilbury (UK)

TYPES OF CABIN UPGRADES AVAILABLE

NIGHTS

PRICE FROM

15

£1,599

UPGRADE FROM

Standard Twin Inner (Cat 1)

£59 pp

Standard Plus Twin Inner (Cat 2)

£189 pp

Superior Twin Inner (Cat 3)

£359 pp

Voyager Outside Guarantee (Cat OG)

£469 pp

Standard Twin (Cat 6/Cat 7)

£529/£579 pp

Superior Single Inner (Cat 5)

£729 pp

Majestic Fjordlands | 8 Days CRUIS

E&M

AR

ES OYAG V E ITIM

INCLUDES Return transfers to the cruise port Full board delicious cuisine Afternoon teas and late night snacks Captain’s Cocktail Party Self service tea & coffee (6am to midnight) Entertainment, cabarets and classical interludes Daytime activities and leisure facilities Wide range of leisure facilities on board Guest speaker and arts & crafts Porterage of luggage from port to cabin Port Taxes SHIP

Tue 26 May

Columbus

TYPES OF CABIN UPGRADES AVAILABLE

Flam © Extravagantni

Day 1 - London Tilbury (UK) Day 2 - Rotterdam (Netherlands) Day 3 - At Sea Day 4 - Cruising Hardangerfjord (Norway) & Eidfjord (Norway) Day 5 - Cruising Sognefjord (Norway) & Flåm (Norway)

DATE

Day 6 - Stavanger (Norway) Day 7 - At Sea Day 8 - London Tilbury (UK)

NIGHTS

PRICE FROM

7

£899

UPGRADE FROM

Standard Twin Inner (Cat 1)

£19 pp

Standard Plus Twin Inner (Cat 2)

£89 pp

Superior Twin Inner (Cat 3)

£129 pp

Voyager Ocean View (Cat OG)

£169 pp

Superior Single Inner (Cat 5)

£299 pp

Standard Single (Cat 6BS)

Full/Partically Obstructed Ocean View

£419 pp

Terms and Conditions: Prices include savings and are from and per person based on two adults sharing a voyager twin cabin. Voyager grades and cabin numbers will be advised at ticket stage. Applies to new bookings only, may be withdrawn without notice and remain subject to availability.

Offers cannot be combined with any other offers and are rounded to the nearest ten unit fare. Gratuities at £7 per person per night (£6 per person per night on cruises over 16 nights) will be debited from your onboard account. Cruise and Maritime Voyages are offered for sale in the UK by South Quay Travel & Leisure Ltd trading as Cruise and Maritime Voyages. ABTA V9945

81

Guensey by Air INCLUDES Return airport transfers from home* Return flights from East Midlands Airport Meet & Greet in Guernsey 5 nights half board Half‐day island tour of Guernsey Free time in Guernsey

HOTEL 3 The Peninsula Hotel, Guernsey Set within 5 acres of gardens, The Peninsula Hotel is set in a prominent seafront position overlooking Grand Havre Bay on the north-west coast of the island. If you are looking for a relaxing break, you will find a large outdoor swimming pool, which is heated during the summer, and a childrens pool.

Saint Peter’s Port, Guernsey © Allard1

Day 1 – We take you to East Midlands Airport for your flight over to Guernsey. On arrival, you will be greeted by a representative and taken to your hotel.

Day 2/5 – During your time on the island we have arranged a half‐day guided tour ‐ by coach! Afterwards enjoy free time in Guernsey, doing as much or as little as you like or the rest of your stay. Guernsey’s compact size makes it easy to get around, and there is always plenty to do during your visit here. Walkers can explore the coastal trails and picturesque cliff paths, history lovers are spoilt for choice with well‐preserved fortifications and museums and those who love to relax, can simply enjoy the miles of golden beaches.

Day 6 – You will be collected from your hotel and taken back to the airport for your return flight home.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Fri 1 May

6

£799

Wed 15 July

6

£849

Wed 9 September

6

£799

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£99

Travel Insurance

£26

*Subject to pick-up location.

Jersey by Air INCLUDES Return airport transfers from home* Return flights from East Midlands Airport Meet & Greet in Jersey Half board accommodation Island tour Free time in Jersey

HOTEL 3 Norfolk Lodge, St Helier Situated in the north of St. Helier this hotel is a leisurely walk to the beach and provides guests with a spacious lounge, sun‐ terrace and live entertainment.

Please note: This hotel is not suitable for passengers with restricted mobility, there are 10 to 15 steps to enter the hotel and a few steps to get to the rooms.

Jersey © Jersey Tourism

Day 1 – We travel to East Midlands Airport for your flight over to Jersey. On arrival, you will be greeted by a representative and taken to your hotel.

During your Stay– We have arranged a full day guided tour of Jersey – via coach! (You will be advised of the day of this excursion during your stay.) With a wealth of knowledge, bags of humour and local secrets these tours are a great way to discover the island!

Jersey’s size makes it easy to fit plenty into your holiday. How you spend the rest of your time is completely up to you.

Final Day – After breakfast you’ll be collected from your hotel and taken back to the airport for your return flight home. On arrival in the UK our door‐to‐door service will be waiting for you at the airport.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Mon 20 April

5

£649

Sun 7 June

7

£809

Mon 6 July

6

£789

Sun 13 September

7

£799

DATE

Single Room Supplement

CALL

Travel Insurance

CALL

*Subject to pick-up location.

82 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a vital aspect to booking a holiday, giving you protection against unforeseen circumstances that could otherwise spoil your holiday. It is important that you purchase travel insurance that properly covers your participation in whatever activities you may undertake at the time that you make your booking.

STANDARD SCHEDULE OF COVER UK

PER PERSON

EUROPE

PER PERSON

Up to 3 days

£17.00

Up to 3 days

£27.00

Up to 5 days

£23.00

Up to 5 days

£30.00

Up to 7 days

£26.00

Up to 7 days

£36.00

Up to 10 days

£34.00

Up to 10 days

£40.00

Up to 14 days

£40.00

Up to 14 days

£45.00

SECTION OF COVER

EUROPE CONTINUED

PER PERSON

Up to 18 days

£50.00

Whave arranged competitive travel insurance from Travel & General Insurance Services Limited to specifically meet your needs on your holiday. The schedule of cover below sets out a summary of the cover provided by this tailored insurance. Skills Travel Limited is an Appointed Representative of Travel & General Insurance Services Limited and are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, full details can be found at www.fca.org.uk

MAXIMUM SUMS INSURED AND/OR BENEFITS PER PERSON

MAXIMUM EXCESS PER PERSON

Cancellation

£2,000

• NIL trips up to 3‐days • £15 Loss of Deposit trips 4‐days plus • £50 Cancellation trips 4‐days plus

Delayed Departure (Northern Ireland, Isles of Scilly, Isle of Man, Channel Islands & Europe)

• £60 (£20 after first 12‐hours and £10 for each subsequent 12‐hours) Delayed Travel • £2,000 Holiday Abandonment

• NIL Delayed Travel • NIL Holiday Abandonment trips up to 3‐days • £50 Holiday Abandonment trips 4‐days plus

Missed Departure

• £100 (England, Scotland & Wales) • £300 (Northern Ireland, Isle of Man, Channel Islands & Europe)

NIL

£15,000 (subject to age)

NIL

Personal Accident

£2,000,000 Medical & Other Expenses in all, sub‐limited to: Medical & Other Expenses (including Curtailment)

Hospital Benefit

• £1,500 Additional Accommodation, Repatriation & Travel Expenses (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland & Isles of Scilly) • £1,000 Local Funeral Expenses (Isle of Man, Channel Islands & Europe) • £2,000 Curtailment • £10 per day up to £100 (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland & Isles of Scilly) • £15 per day up to £450 (Isle of Man, Channel Islands & Europe)

• £30 Medical & Other Expenses • Nil Curtailment trips up to 3‐days • £50 Curtailment trips 4‐days plus

NIL

£1,500 Personal Property in all, sub‐limited to: Personal Property (including Personal Money)

• £200 Single Article Limit • £200 in all Valuables • £200 (subject to age) Personal Money • £100 (after 12‐hours) Delayed Baggage

• NIL Delayed Baggage • £30 Baggage & Personal Money

Loss of Passport and / or Visa Expenses

£200

NIL

Personal Liability

£2,000,000

NIL

Legal Expenses

£25,000

NIL

HEALTH CONDITIONS You must be able to comply with the following conditions to have the full protection of your policy. If you do not comply we may refuse to deal with any relevant claim or reduce the amount of any relevant claim payment.

If you are travelling within the UK you are not required to declare your medical conditions. However, to be covered for any medical conditions you have or have had, you must be able to answer NO to questions 1. to 4. and YES to questions 5. and 6. a) and b) below: 1.

2. a) 3.

4.

5.

6. a)

Are you aware of any reason why the trip could be cancelled or cut short (such as the health of a close relative) Are you travelling: against the advice of a medical practitioner, or b) for the purpose of obtaining medical treatment.

Have you been given a terminal prognosis.

Are you receiving or awaiting treatment for any bodily injury, illness or disease as a hospital day case or in‐patient.

If you are on prescribed medication, are your medical condition(s) stable and well controlled.

If you suffer from stress, anxiety, depression or any other mental or nervous disorder, have you received written confirmation (at your cost) that you are fit enough to take this trip by either: a registered mental health professional (if you are under the care of a Community Mental Health Team), or b) a consultant specialising in the relevant field.

If you are travelling outside of the UK you must telephone MediScreen on 0344 892 1698 if anyone to be covered by this policy, or any person upon whose health the trip depends: 1.

2.

3.

4.

Has or has had a medical condition (excluding childhood and minor ailments not requiring treatment).

Is taking prescribed medication.

Has or has had any medical condition still requiring periodic review.

Is awaiting any tests, treatment, investigation, referral or the results of these.

MediScreen’s office hours are 9am to 5pm Monday to Thursday and 9am to 4pm Friday excluding Bank Holidays.

You must notify MediScreen immediately of any changes in medical circumstances arising between the date the policy is issued and the time of departure for the trip. You may have to pay an additional premium to cover your medical conditions. This applies to all destinations including trips solely within the United Kingdom (being defined as England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isles of Scilly). A policy document that fully defines the cover, conditions and exclusions will be sent to you with your booking confirmation. When you receive your policy, please take the time to read it carefully to ensure you understand what is and what is not covered, and that all activities that you may wish to participate in are included. If it does not meet your requirements, please return the policy, proof of premium and any other relevant documentation to us within 14 days of receipt and we will refund the premium in full, provided you have not travelled or made a claim.

Significant or unusual limitations or What is not covered 1.

The cover under this policy is only available to United Kingdom residents for travel within the Geographical limits contained in this policy and which begins and ends in the United Kingdom.

Repatriation will be to the United Kingdom only.

2.

Cover is only available for the whole duration of a booked trip to a maximum 18‐consecutive days and cover cannot be purchased once a trip has already begun.

3.

Certain hazardous sports and activities.

4.

Personal effects – claims will be paid based on the value at today’s prices less a deduction for wear, tear and depreciation (loss of value) 5.

Losses of personal property, valuables, passport, visa or money must be reported to police within 24 hours of discovery and a written police report obtained.

6.

You are not covered for valuables, your passport or visa if left unattended at any time (including in a vehicle, in checked in luggage or while in the custody of a carrier, tour operator or public transport

operator) unless deposited in a hotel safe,

safety deposit box or left in your locked accommodation.

7.

Stolen property: You are not covered for baggage stolen from: a) an unattended coach/bus unless itwas locked in the luggage compartment of the coach/bus and evidence of force or violent entry to the vehicle is available, or b) the passenger compartment of any unattended vehicle.

8.

You being under the influence of drink or drugs (unless prescribed by a doctor).

9.

Circumstances known to you before you booked your trip or purchased this insurance which could reasonably have been expected to lead to cancellation of the trip.

Booking Conditions Information

PLEASE READ BEFORE BOOKING. The following information highlights some of the more important terms and conditions which apply to your booking. These are NOT our full Terms and Conditions. All bookings are subject to our full Terms and Conditions which you can find on our website: www.skills.co.uk/terms-conditions. A copy of these can also be e-mailed or posted to you on request. By asking us to make your booking, you confirm you have had access and agree to our full Terms and Conditions, which you should read and familiarise yourself with. Prices are correct at the time of going to print, but may increase or decrease at a later date. We reserve the right to increase or decrease prices of unsold holidays and insurance at any time after brochure publication as our costs change and exchange rates fluctuate, or to correct errors. Current prices of our holidays and travel insurance cover are shown on our website and are also available by telephone. Please ensure you have checked the price of any holiday and travel insurance cover you are interested in before making your booking.

Our holidays may be subject to a minimum number of bookings in order to operate. For all holidays, the deadline for deciding if sufficient passengers have booked to travel for the tour to operate, is the date by which full payment of the holiday must be made. In the event that minimum numbers have not been reached, we reserve the right to cancel your holiday and refund all monies paid.

If you have a complaint during your holiday you should tell the driver/representative or supplier at the earliest opportunity so that they can do their utmost to resolve the problem immediately. If on your return from holiday, you are dissatisfied you should write to us (quoting your reference number) within 28 days. We are unable to investigate any complaint received more than 28 days after your return. If you do not tell us at the earliest opportunity about a problem giving rise to your complaint we cannot take steps to investigate and rectify it. In deciding how to respond to your complaint we will take into account the date you first drew the problem to the attention of our driver/representative or supplier. Letters to be received within 28 days of your trip or holiday return.

Questionnaires are provided at the end of tours to gauge general customer satisfaction, however any comments made on the form will not be regarded as a formal complaint.

We will not be liable or pay you any compensation where the performance of our contractual agreement has been prevented or affected by Force Majeure, for example this includes delay, cancellations, change of itinerary, change of accommodation, change of transport. Force Majeure is any event which we or the supplier(s) of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid, and is therefore beyond our or the supplier(s) control. These events include, but are not limited to; strikes, riots/civil unrest, government acts, hostilities, war, threat of war, terriost activity or threat of terriost activity, hurricanes, industrial disputes, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, flood, tornadoes, hurricanes, transportation and mechanical problems, airport closures, and severe weather conditions. We subscribe to the Code of Conduct of the Bonded Coach Holidays Group (BCHG) of the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK (CPT). BCHG requires a bond to be taken out to provide protection of money received for your Package in the unlikely event that a Member cannot, for financial reasons, carry out their obligation to their passengers.

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WE DO EVERYTHING!!

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SKILLS WORLDWIDE TRAVEL

Belgrave Road Bulwell, NG6 8LY

Chilwell Road Beeston, NG9 1ES

TEL: 0115 9770 080

TEL: 01159 222 441

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SKILLS & LAVER HOLIDAYS

Mansfield Road Nottingham, NG1 3FB

Intu Centre Derby, DE1 2AZ

TEL: 01159 507 982

TEL: 01332 384 000

GROUPS

CITY BREAKS

84 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

08456 66 55 44* | WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

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