All groups welcome by Beau Media

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All

Groups Welcome

A Beau Business Media Publication

This is our relaxation room #ThatIslandFeeling

In under an hour, find a secret spot, relax and reconnect. Plan your getaway at visitguernsey.com

11322-VG ALL GROUPS ANNUAL GUIDE SEPT 2022.indd 4

07/09/2022 14:10

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All Groups Welcome Those with a dog who like to take him/her to stay in hotels with them, will know that there is a huge difference between those establishments which are dogfriendly and those who are, how shall I put it, dog-tolerant. In a similar way, I dare say, that we have all at one time visited an attraction or hotel which claims to be group friendly but in reality, is merely group tolerant. You know the type of thing, your group arrives at a hotel, is kept waiting for an age until they are checked in and then, for supper, are given a set menu and lead away to a back room, miles away from the main restaurant. Likewise, the attraction which keeps your group waiting to check in, whilst individuals, couples or families are ushered in before. Thankfully, those days are mostly behind us now and I

would like to assure you that all the attractions and hotels in this publication are group friendly and they are keen to welcome your group! From a theatre in the South West to a district in Northern Ireland, a military attraction in Essex to historic houses on the Channel Islands - some of those included will be familiar to you whilst others may not but either way, all are keen to welcome your group, so please do contact them.

The ‘staycation’ phenomenon shows no sign of abating and bookings for 2023 and beyond are looking good. All over the country hotels have decent occupancy levels and attractions are doing well. Groups are discovering or rediscovering what the United Kingdom has to offer and with many attractions and hotels offering group rates, the future is bright. Our good friends over in Flanders, too, are welcoming back more and more of their group clients from the UK and we are keen to promote them to our readers.

Picture credits Top downwards Compass Shutterstock, Ian Woodcock, Shutterstock Goga, Shutterstock

Front cover picture credits Helmsley Walled Garden, Shakespeare School Hestercombe, Northen Ireland tourisum, Royal Mint, Visit Southport, Shutterstock Olha Rohulya, Crab Shutterstock

Sales Brett Kirby Tel: 0121 445 6961 Production: Laura Collins Design: Alexina Whittaker Beau Business Media Group Ltd Publishing House, Windrush, Ash Lane, Birmingham, B48 7TS Tel: 0121 445 6961 e-mail: beaubusinessmedia@gmail.com

This is a controlled circulation publication and freely available to qualifying applicants. Care is taken to ensure that the information contained within the magazine is accurate. However, the publisher cannot accept liability for errors or omissions, no matter how they arise. Readers are advised to get facts and statements confirmed by suppliers when making enquiries. The opinions of the author are not necessarily those as the publisher. All rights are reserved. No reproduction of any part of this magazine may be carried out without the consent of the publisher being obtained in the first instance.

Hugh

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All groups welcome

Contents 8

Guernsey

Flanders

Northern Ireland

East Midlands

Heart of england

London

North East

North West

Yorkshire

South East

South West

Wales

Spotlight On

Castell Carreg Cennen crown copyright.JPGEnglish

Shutterstock, Ververidis Vasi

5 Northen Ireland Tourism

English Riviera BID Company

Shutterstock

1000 Words, Shutterstock

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Experience our Island feeling

From guided tours, walking festivals and oral events, to sporting xtures and historic landmarks, here’s why the Islands of Guernsey are the perfect place to get together.

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Overlooking St Peter Port

Easily accessible, with plenty of connections by both sea and air, the Islands of Guernsey are a wonderful destination for group travel. Our capital, St Peter Port, has a distinct Mediterranean feel with unique, independent shops. With plenty of busy restaurants, it’s time to enjoy great food with great company. Our milder climate makes the islands perfect to explore year-round, with a long, warm summer and mild winter months.

Need the perfect space for a team building workshop? Or a destination holiday to bring everyone together? Guernsey has an abundance of award-winning gardens, attractions, restaurants, hotels and unique places to stay. Plus, there are ve naturally beautiful and diverse islands to hop between. History here is entwined with the every day. From Neolithic burial ruins to Roman Forts and World War II bunkers, you can explore thousands of years of the Islands’ history.

Paddleboarding at Cobo

We have plenty of Museums, Castles, Forts and historical sites waiting to be explored. Visit Sausmarez Manor, a historic house which has been in the same family for more than 800 years. Or head to Castle Cornet, which has stood guard over St Peter Port for more than 800 years. Victor Hugo made Guernsey his home during his exile, and his recently restored house is now a museum. Renoir captured our south coast in a series of iconic paintings You can visit the locations he painted and see breath-taking views that have remained unchanged since he visited.

If you have been looking for a change of scenery, we are ready to welcome you with open arms. À bétao! See you soon!

Find out more at visitguernsey.com.

If you are a Group organiser go to: guernseytrademedia.com/product/ group-travel

There are plenty of options to get around, with walking, coach, bike and swimming tours all available. A trip to one of our sister Islands, Alderney, Sark, Herm and Lihou, is an absolute must. All unique in character, boasting stunning coastal scenery and clear turquoise seas which make them a paradise for visiting wildlife and birds.

St Peter Port High Street & Town Church

The Islands of Guernsey Cycling the north coast Castle Cornet

The Islands of Guernsey, Sark, Alderney, Herm and Lihou are located in the English Channel, just 30 miles from the Normandy coast.

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All groups welcome

Guernsey

asy to get to, the Islands of Guernsey are a wonderful destination for group travel. Safe and welcoming, the capital, St Peter Port, has a distinct Mediterranean feel with unique, independent shops.

With plenty of busy, but not crowded, restaurants, it’s time to toast great food, with great company, in great restaurants. eir milder climate means the summer feels like it lasts longer here in the Islands, making it perfect to explore their award-winning gardens and attractions. History here is entwined in the every day. From Neolithic burial ruins to Roman Forts to World War II bunkers, you can step into the past and relive thousands of years of the Islands’ history. ey have plenty of Museums, Castles, Forts and historical sites waiting to be explored. Visit Sausmarez Manor, a historic house which has been in the same family for more than 800 years with a fascinating story to tell, or head to Castle Cornet, which has stood guard over St Peter Port for more than 800 years. Victor Hugo made Guernsey his home in exile, and his spectacular, recently-restored house, is now a museum. Renoir also captured the south coast in a series of iconic paintings, visit the locations and see these breath-

taking views that remain unchanged since he visited. ere are plenty of options, however you chose to explore, with walking, coach, bike and swimming tours all available.

If you have been looking for a change of scenery, they are ready to welcome you with open arms. It’s time to unpause life on the islands of Guernsey.

A trip to one of their sister Islands, Alderney, Sark, Herm and Lihou, is an absolute must if you come over. All unique in character, they all boast stunning coastal scenery and clear turquoise seas which have made them a mecca for visiting wildlife and birds.

Historic houses and gardens are both high on the shopping list for groups and Guernsey’s Sausmarez Manor will satisfy on both fronts. Situated in the parish of St Martin, Suasmarez Manor is oen described as one of the most beautiful beautiful and varied places in all of Guernsey. Visiting groups can explore this wonderful house as well as spend time in a tropical garden and sculpture park. Parts of the Manor are thought to date back to the early 13th or late 12th centuries and the front of the house is regarded as the ﬁnest example of Queen Anne Colonial architecture in Britain. Also available is the alternative Ghost Tour. e ghosts of Sausmarez Manor have been around for almost as long as the house and feature famously in the book, “Stately Ghosts”. In the Subtropical Garden groups will ﬁnd many exotic plants set around two small lakes in an ancient woodland. e Garden has been recommended by the Royal Horticultural Society, “1001 Gardens to Visit Before You Die”, “e Good Garden Guide” and “Which Gardens”. Also set within the grounds of

Dolphins and seals are regularly spotted in their waters, and Herm’s cliﬀs are home to Europe’s most southerly puﬃn-breeding colony. Best known for being home to the blonde hedgehog, Alderney is also home to more than 300 species of bird, who choose to nest on the Island each year, making it a bird watchers paradise. Lihou Island is reached in foot, when the receding tide reveals a 570m ancient stone causeway leading to the Island’s fantastic rock pools, priory ruins, RAMSARdesignated wetlands and the ‘Venus Pool’, a natural swimming pool formed in the rocks. With plenty of connections, by both sea and air, getting to the Islands of Guernsey is easy. 8

Sausmarez Manor is the internationally renowned Sculpture Park, which has more sculptors exhibiting their works than anywhere else in Britain. A tea room serves hot and cold drinks and cakes and please note that groups must book in advances Visit www.sausmarezmanor.co.uk or call 01481 235572 In keeping with the historic building theme and, all that Mother Nature can oﬀer, e National Trust in Guernsey is responsible for managing three properties; the Folk & Cologne Museum, Victorian Shop & Parlour and Les Caches Farm. e Folk & Cologne Museum has grown from a collection of traditional farm implements into a rich and vivid representation of life in Victorian Guernsey. e Museum features a country kitchen, a classroom, a bedroom and a children’s nursery. Its shop sells Guernsey jumpers, artisan cras, traditional toys and bespoke chocolate. At the Victorian Shop & Parlour groups can step back in time as this restored property retains artefacts from its days as a family run shop and home. Les Caches Farm is a collection of Guernsey farmhouses and outbuilding dating way back to the 15th century. Set in the tranquil

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hamlet of Les Villets the farmhouse oﬀers visiting groups a laid-back escape from the modern world Over the years, the National Trust has acquired land in Guernsey and these include areas of coastline as well as pockets of countryside. As such, those groups with a penchant for walking will be in their element. e more energetic members of your group might like to know that many National Trust places

are Geocaching sites. www.nationaltrust.gg or call 07781 106461 e-mail enquiries@visitguernsey.com and for more information visit www.visitguernsey.com or call 01481 223552

The National Trust of Guernsey Preserving Guernsey’s heritage for future generations

Our heritage attractions The Folk and Costume Museum Found in Saumarez Park, the museum gives an insight into an earlier age of Island life through displays including a Victorian school room, Guernsey farmhouse kitchen, traditional Island industries and a ﬁne costume collection.

Opening times: 28 Mar to 31 Oct (Closed 9 May) 7 days a week: 10am - 5pm (last entry 4.15pm)

Entry: Adult: £6 | Student/Children 7-18: £3 Children U7: FREE | National Trust (worldwide) and La Société Guernesiaise Members: FREE The Museum is access-friendly. Private tours (including School groups) can be accommodated by prior arrangement outside of these times.

Les Caches Farm Set in the peaceful hamlet of Les Villets, Les Caches Farm is a wonderful example of a traditional Guernsey farmhouse and associated outbuildings. As much of the original fabric of the building has been preserved, with the restoration project being a prime example of commitment to teaching and learning restoration skills.

The Victorian Shop and Parlour at 26 Cornet St This ﬁne historic house incorporates a Victorian-styled shop where classic sweets are measured out in ounces from glass jars into paper bags. Selling delightful gifts and traditional toys, a trip down memory lane is all part of a visit to 26 Cornet Street, St. Peter Port.

Opening times:

6 May to 30 Sep Wed - Sun: 10.30am - 12.30pm (Closed Mon and Tue) Free entry - donations welcome

6 Apr to 25 Sep Tue - Sat: 10am - 4.00pm

Les Caches Farm grounds and apple orchard are open all year, for public enjoyment, tours and event opportunities.

Les Caches Farm T: 07781 106461 E: emc@nationaltrust.gg The Victorian Shop and Parlour T: 01481 728451 E: 26cornetstreet@nationaltrust.gg The Folk and Costume Museum T: 01481 255384 E: fcm@nationaltrust.gg W: nationaltrust.gg

Sausmarez Manor & Subtropical Gardens The Manor has the remarkable destinction of being still in the hands of the Seigneurs de Sausmarez afterv 800 years, is regarded as the finest example of Queen Anne colonial archtecture in the country and built at the bequest of the 1st Governor of New York. Its contents reflect many of the Family who have been Privateers , Prelates, Seamen, Soldiers, Diplomats Inventors,and Adventures. The Sub tropical Garden has plants fom all over the sutrpics with a Profusion of different Bamboos,Tree Ferns , and Palm trees,Ginger lilies, Hundreds of Camellias,Cyclamen,Epiphites In an ancient Woodland by a couple of lakes etc. Just 2 of the scores of unique, interesting and unusual places to visit in Guernsey

Peter de Sausmarez, Sausmarez Manor St Martin Guernsey Gy4 6SG, 0044 (0)1481 235571 Peter@sausmarezmanor.co.uk

www.artparks.co.uk 9

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All groups welcome

Castles of Great Britain

From the most historic of royal houses to the most opulent spectacles of aﬄuence and power, the array of

legendary places and exceptional buildings is remarkable, many of which have been used as the backdrop to many ﬁlms and TV productions.

Medieval and Tudor times. Gied, educated, cultured and intelligent conversationalists, these women were born and raised to marry English Monarchs.

e variety on oﬀer is almost limitless, only limited by the imagination, now take a look at what's on oﬀer and imagine you and your group enjoying what Britain does best.

Queens with Means is a brand new cinematic experience which gives back the voices of our seven historic queens, including Katherine of Aragon, as we reveal their true stories, in their own voices.

Leeds Castle Immerse yourself in the world of Leeds Castle's seven historic queens, as we take you on an untold journey through

As the queens hold court in the Gatehouse, the latest video-mapping technology

and unique lighting, sound and visual eﬀects have been used to create a compelling and empathic journey, as the queens step out of the shadows of history. e experience will last approximately 7 minutes, where guests will then be invited to delve into the history of the Castle, before they experience Lady Baillie’s 1930s country house retreat. Alnwick Castle is the second largest inhabited castle in England; it has been home to

Visit Devon

he British Isles is famous for its rich and varied history over many centuries, which includes an unsurpassed inheritance of renowned places and exceptional buildings, the likes of which are only available to view here, centuries of our rich culture and historical diversity preserved for future generations.

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Alnwick Castle The second largest inhabited castle in the UK

Home to the Duke of Northumberland’s family, the Percys, for over 700 years

01665 511 100 Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 1NQ

Film location for Downton Abbey and Harry Potter’s Hogwarts

groups@alnwickcastle.com alnwickcastle.com/groups

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the Duke of Northumberland’s family, the Percys, for over 700 years.

Edinburgh, Alnwick Castle is an ideal destination for group visits.

e castle’s rich history is brimming with drama, intrigue, and extraordinary people; from a gunpowder plotter and visionary collectors, to decadent hosts and medieval England’s most celebrated knight, Harry Hotspur. Combining magniﬁcent medieval architecture with spectacular Italianate State Rooms, Alnwick Castle is one of the UK’s most signiﬁcant heritage destinations.

Group Beneﬁts Groups of 14 or more people receive the following beneﬁts:

In recent years it has also taken starring roles in a number of ﬁlm and television productions, featuring as Hogwarts School of Witchcra and Wizardry in the Harry Potter ﬁlms and as a location for ITV’s Downton Abbey.

ey are very happy to discuss rates for regular visits and welcome enquiries about bespoke visits. To book a visit, or for any further information, please contact their group bookings team on 01665 511 184 or groups@alnwickcastle.com

JuliaS, Shutterstock

Conveniently situated less than a mile oﬀ the A1 between Newcastle and

Discounted admission Free admission for driver and group leader Free parking and easy drop-oﬀ Free dining voucher for driver Specialist tours available on request Meet-and-greet service available Range of bookable tours and activities

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shutterstock,Catarina Belova

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All groups welcome

Flanders

nly 90 minutes from Calais by coach, Flanders is a region which is accessible and very group friendly. As everyone under 50 speaks (good) English, communication is never a problem and for those with, even, a passing interest in the events of the Great War, you’ll be hard pressed to ﬁnd more attractions and heritage / pilgrimage sites in all of Europe

Peace Village e Peace Village Hostel, situated in rural Messines, is the ideal group accommodation and base for a visit to Flanders Fields and the Ypres Salient. e hostel overlooks the Messines ridge battleﬁeld of Belgium's smallest city with landmarks such as the Island of Ireland Peace Park and the New Zealand Memorial to the Missing. e Hostel excels in tranquillity, space and oﬀers great facilities. It's perfectly equipped to accommodate both medium size and large groups. ey can welcome up to 165 guests in 43 studios’, each with their own living and sleeping area and en-suit facilities. eir evening activities and bar help to keep groups occupied in the evening whilst you enjoy the beautiful sunset on Kemmel hill. e bar & restaurant each have a nice terrace overlooking the landscape. e hostel is 15

surrounded by a large green area, ideal for playing of relaxing with lots of areas for youngsters to hang out. For a more detailed list of all sports & games equipment, please check out their overview. Each group is also issued with an free sports cupboard on arrival which contains all the required equipment for a fun day on the grounds. www.peacevillage.be Literally, only 15 minutes by coach from the Peace Village is Ypres / Ieper and it is here where groups can visit the In Flanders Fields Museum. e museum presents the story of the First World War in the West Flanders front region. It is located in the rebuilt Cloth Hall of Ypres, an important symbol of wartime hardship and later recovery. From this symbolic accommodation, the museum pays great attention to the contemporary landscape as one of the last tangible witnesses of the war history. e focus of the Museum is on the human war experience, presenting hundreds of authentic objects and images in an experience-orientated setting. IFFM confronts the visitor with the consequences of e Great War and its relevance today. Recently the museum got a makeover with a focus on an enhanced experience. Discover the new installations, new ﬁlms and objects. ere is also more emphasis on in-depth

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us a thing or two about brewing! Brewery visits are very popular with the groups market and for those taking a trip across the Channel into Flanders, they might like to consider a trip to one of John Martin’s breweries; Timmermans or Bourgogne des Flandres.

city walk or bicycle tour. you can ﬁnd more information on our website

At Bourgogne des Flandres, for example, groups can ﬁnd out more about hops and the brewing process, learn how to tap beer digitally and/or take a bottle with your picture home. Of course, at the end of the tour you will get a free Bourgogne des Flandres and enjoy a wonderful view of the Bruges canals.

www.inﬂandersﬁelds.be Anthony Martin Brewery e Great War attractions of Flanders can be intense and any trip to the region should be mixed with a lighter theme and what better way of relaxing than with a beer! We love a good pint in the United Kingdom...so do the Belgians and they could teach

counterparts so try to resist the urge of going overboard at the tasting sessions! www.anthonymartin.be/en

“

In Flanders Fields Museum. e focus of the Museum is on the human war experience, presenting hundreds of authentic objects and images in an experience-orientated setting..

“

personal stories. You can now visit the museum with an audio guide with deeper insights for adults or the child-friendly version. e In Flanders Field Museum is a great starting point for a visit of remembrance to the front region. You can enjoy one of the full-day programmes or set up your own itinerary with important sites and monuments on the old battleﬁelds. You can combine a guided visit to the museum with a guided battleﬁeld tour,

Belgian beers can be much stronger than their UK

Only the scars in the landscape remain. The last echoes of WWI seem to have quietly died away. When memories start to fade, it is vital, more than ever, to keep it all in focus. This is what In Flanders Fields Museum sets out to do, year after fading year.

UPDATED EXPERIENCE. Discover fresh exhibits and installations, new movies and objects, and even more profound personal stories. Choose the new audio guide with more in-depth insights for grown-ups or the child-friendly version.

WHEN MEMORIES FADE, IN FLANDERS START TO FADE FIELDS MUSEUM KEEPS IT ALL IN FOCUS.

Reserve your tickets on inflandersfields.be

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Welcome at Peace Village

Where to find us?

Facilities

Messines, Belgium's smallest city, is steeped in history. Less than 10 km (15 minutes by car) from Ypres or the French border and with a view over the former battlefields, peaceful views are everywhere.

The Peace Village also houses a restaurant, several meeting rooms and a conference room for large events. All in all, ideally equipped for schools, youth groups or business conferences. In the evening, we can recommend you to try a local ale in our bar with game facilities and live sports.

Activities at Peace Village Besides our two football pitches, the facilities also include a netball field, pingpong, pool table and table football. Campfires and karaoke are possible after reservation. Our local guides are happy to tailor your itinerary and in Flanders Fields, the cycling paradise is never far away.

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All groups welcome

Northern Ireland

orth or south or both, short break or tour – Ireland retains huge popularity in the UK group travel market. The eminently manageable island of Ireland measures only 300 miles north to south and 170 east to west but it manages to pack in awful lot for any group wishing to explore its attractions – man-made or natural. Irish history goes back a long way and is celebrated in its arts, culture and music. There are modern day attractions which have huge group appeal such as the

Game of Thrones Studio Tour, Titanic and distillery tours. Crossing the Irish sea has never been easier with Irish Ferries and Stena oﬀering many sailing throughout the year and there are flights to pretty much every major city and town in the island. e north of Ireland has enjoyed a renaissance with tourists over the past two decades and one district keen to welcome groups is Ards and North Down. All its attractions are close to each other and the district is only

an hour from Belfast. Ards and North Down is home to some of Northern Ireland’s top attractions and groups can step into life as it was a hundred years ago in Holywood at the Ulster Folk

Museum. Here you can see passionate cra makers in authentic town and country dwellings demonstrate traditional skills. A hop skip and a jump away at the Ulster Transport Museum, visitors

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Strangford Lough

Discover this beautiful region, all within an hour of Belfast. Bring your group to journey along our stunning shorelines nestled between the sparkling waters of the Irish Sea and spectacular Strangford Lough. With a great range of accommodation options from budget to 5-star luxury with spa facilities, top attractions and unique experiences, you will enjoy the warmest of welcomes in Ards and North Down. Bangor Donaghadee

Holywood Belfast

Newtownards

Comber

Portaferry

WATER’S EDGE The perfect base for water sports enthusiasts with 115 miles of stunning coastline.

AWAKEN YOUR CREATIVE SPIRIT Meet and learn from local makers in our galleries, studios and workshops.

FOODIE HEAVEN

TIME DEPTH

Savour the tastes of the region with fresh seafood, artisan delights and enjoy local distillery tours.

Explore heritage sites with a rich history dating back to the Bronze Age, Vikings and Ulster-Scots settlers.

Plan your next short break now at

visitardsandnorthdown.com

Dublin

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can enjoy one of Europe’s most comprehensive transport collections. Visit Northern Ireland’s only aquarium and seal rehabilitation centre, Exploris, Portaferry. Get up close to Ireland’s largest collection of native and exotic waterbirds, bats and migrant birds at Castle Espie Wetland Centre. All of the local museums have a unique story to tell, North Down Museum in Bangor, for example, travels back to the Bronze Age through a series of rooms, each dedicated to a particular era. e Somme Museum, Conlig, transports

you to the trenches for fascinating insights into life during the First and Second World Wars. e magic of the National Trust’s Mount Stewart is uncovered with a tour of the 19th century stately home and world-class gardens............ or perhaps just wind along idyllic woodland and farmland walking trails in this magniﬁcent Irish demesne. To ﬁnd out more and with help planning your next trip visit www. visitardsandnorthdown.com

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All groups welcome

East Midlands

Aer being closed for over a year whilst undergoing signiﬁcant conservation work, e Leaves of Southwell can once again be seen in all their exquisite glory, thanks to a £2.2m National Lottery Heritage Funded project. e Leaves of Southwell,

regarded as the best example of 13th century naturalistic carving in the United Kingdom, and indeed all of Europe, are perfectly set inside the glorious Chapter House of Southwell Minster, the Cathedral church of Nottinghamshire.

e Archbishop’s Palace, once home to Cardinal Wolsey, is situated next door and includes the serene Palace Gardens, home to an abundance of ﬂowers, plants and wildlife and is the perfect place to sit and relax aer a busy day. ey have a Refectory on site oﬀering a delicious range of meals, snacks and drinks, whilst their Cathedral Shop (closed Mondays) boasts a huge array of gis and souvenirs. Southwell Minster is open 365 days per year.

As a direct result of the funding, we have been able to implement and deliver works to protect, interpret, and better present these beautiful and historic medieval carvings for future generations. A cantilever li has also been installed to allow improved accessibility whilst new lighting has been put in place, both inside and outside.

town of Southwell, just 8 miles from the A1, there’s never been a better time to visit. Coach drop-oﬀ directly outside the Cathedral, with free long-term coach parking available nearby.

For group booking enquiries, please contact oﬃce@southwellminster.org.uk Please keep an eye out at www.southwellminster.org.uk for opening times and closure notices.

Situated in the heart of rural Nottinghamshire, in the picturesque Georgian market

Shutterstock

nder 90 minutes’ drive from Birmingham and nestling within gentle countryside stands the market town of Southwell, the town is, perhaps, not that well known to the groups market, so for those who haven’t been, a visit to the Minster, alone, is well worth the eﬀort.

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Southwell Minster, the cathedral church of Nottinghamshire Home to ‘The Leaves of Southwell’ and The Archbishop’s Palace Refectory and Cathedral Shop on site Open 365 days Free admission

www.southwellminster.org SouthwellMinster southwellminster

SouthwMinster SouthwellMinster

image © Andy Marshall

Explore 1,000 years of history at

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Come and visit the world-renowned

Leaves of Southwell

After being closed for over a year whilst undergoing signi cant conservation work, thanks to £2.2m funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, we are delighted that the ‘Leaves of Southwell’ can once again be seen in all their exquisite glory. Regarded as the best example of 13th century naturalistic carving in the United Kingdom, and indeed Europe, they are of signi cant global importance and have a stunning setting inside the glorious Chapter House of Southwell Minster. Whilst you’re here, why not visit The Archbishop’s Palace, once home to Cardinal Wolsey, which is situated next door and includes the serene Palace Gardens, with its abundance of owers, plants and wildlife the perfect place to sit and relax! Situated in the heart of rural Nottinghamshire, in the picturesque Georgian market town of Southwell, just 8 miles from the A1, there’s never been a better time to visit Southwell Minster. Refectory and Gift Shop on-site. Open 365 days per year. We look forward to welcoming you soon!

“I’d heard about Southwell’s famed Chapter House but never expected it to be so beautiful.”

“Breathtaking craftsmanship”

“So lifelike you can almost hear them rustle”

www.southwellminster.org @SouthwellMinster

@SouthwMinster

southwellminster

Leaves of Southwell

SouthwellMinster

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All groups welcome

Heart of England

ngland’s Heartland or e Heart of England is an accessible destination for groups from all over the United Kingdom. It is not far from the M1 or M6 and is served by two airports – should your group be travelling from further afield. On the world stage recently for its excellent hosting of the Commonwealth Games, Birmingham showed why to many it is more than England’s ‘second city’. Birmingham has a world class (and royal) ballet, led by Carlos Acosta, no less, and the renowned City Of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra e surrounding counties, too, offer visiting groups so much and anyone with, even, a passing interest in the English language or drama needs to spend time in an around Stratford-Upon-Avon. Whilst other cities and areas have their claim to fame, the Industrial Revolution began in the Midlands an no trip to the Heart of England would be complete without a trip to Ironbridge and its environs. Just a half hour’s drive down the road is Coventry which was flattened during WWII but is now a progressive city whose tourism unit works hard to attract the groups market.

What was once a preserve of

the elite or specialist body, classical music is now, thank goodness, eminently accessible to all of us, with many ballets, opera companies and orchestras having a dedicated groups department - e City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) is one of them. e orchestra comprises 90 professional musicians, all based in the West Midlands and they perform regularly at Symphony Hall in Centenary Square. e CBSO has a committed number of community-run coach operator schemes visiting them regularly, to bring concert-goers from Stafford, Newport and Shropshire. ey also run a Connection Coach from Cheltenham throughout the Season. ey’re keen to welcome new groups and new faces, who can experience and share the music with others and enjoy a great day out in Birmingham. e following discounts are available for groups and can be booked directly with the box office at B:Music via phone 0121 780 3333 (Open, Mon-Sat 10am-2pm) or email boxoffice@bmusic.co.uk. - Groups of 10+ will receive a 20% discount on each ticket price - Groups of 20+ will receive a 25% discount on each ticket’s price with every 11th ticket free - All group bookings of 10 or

more will be subject to a reduced per-ticket commission of £1 To find out more about the discounts available visit cbso.co.uk/groups inking about bringing a group to the CBSO? Let the following concerts take your fancy… Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto, Wednesday 2 November, 2.15pm, Symphony Hall ere are some pieces of music that sound like they’ve been taken straight out of a film, and Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto is one of them! It probably helps that it has actually been used in plenty of movies – but the graceful melodies and sweeping orchestral parts definitely conjure up scenes of romance. On the flip side, they have two high-octane, energy-filled “dances” by Rachmaninoff and Adams that offer lots of excitement. If you’re a sucker for an epic film score, then this is the concert for you! Viennese New Year, Sunday 8 January 2023, 3pm e perfect pick-me-up for a

Sunday aernoon in early January, oﬀering the glitz and glamour of Vienna right here in Birmingham! ere’s something incredibly romantic about the elegant waltzes, the playful polkas, the light-hearted, familiar, and truly joyful music within this concert – so let the CBSO whirl you into a new year feeling romanced, revitalised and ready for 2023! e Planets, ursday 2 February 2023, 2.15pm Mars, Venus, Jupiter… everyone has their favourite bit of e Planets. But there’s more to Holst’s masterpiece than just good melodies, and in the hands of conductor Kazuki Yamada this great British classic will become a journey to the outer limits of the imagination itself. ere’s plenty more going on this Season – so join them and discover Birmingham’s Orchestra! e full concert listings can be found on website cbso.co.uk or email us at marketing@cbso.co.uk to request a brochure.

CB CBSO_ CBSO CBS

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DISCOVER BIRMINGHAM’S ORCHESTRA So much incredible music to explore...

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF GREAT

GROUP DISCOUNTS GROUPS OF 10+ 20% discount

GROUPS OF 20+ 25% discount + each 11th ticket free Book by emailing boxo ce@bmusic.co.uk or by calling 0121 780 3333

Principal Funders

Registered Charity no. 506276

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Another of the so-called classical arts genres to embrace the groups market is the theatre and the area around the midlands does, of course, lay claim to, perhaps, the greatest writer of them all, William Shakespeare. Any group visiting StratfordUpon-Avon would have to visit the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) to make their time spent in the town complete. e RSC is world-renowned and signiﬁcant theatre company which produces around 20 performances a year which are staged at its home, London and overseas. Set within the Royal Shakespeare and Swan theatres visiting groups can witness outstanding performances, fascinating exhibitions, guided theatre tours and in the words of the RSC’s website ‘ the best food

In fact, there is no better time to visit Coventry Cathedral, where splendid medieval history meets modern architecture to stunning and poignant effect. Groups who visit can explore the Ruined Cathedral, destroyed by the aforementioned enemy raids and standing proudly alongside the Ruins is the ‘New’ Cathedral, featuring works by some of the greatest artists of the 1950s and 60s. Designed as a ‘casket of jewels’ by Sir Basil Spence, as you move through the building you will experience a journey like no other. Your group will learn about the history and significance of the cathedral from one of its expert guides, and a tour can be tailored to include any specific areas of interest your group may have. Perfectly placed in the city centre, the Cathedral campus spans over 1000 years of history, from the early medieval crasmanship still visible on the ruined Old Cathedral to the innovative 60’s design of Spence’s casket of jewels. ere is a dedicated coach drop off point just outside the main Cathedral entrance, and

in town’ at the Rooop restaurant – which aﬀords great views of the town. Forthcoming highlights include; Matilda (London), All’s Well at Ends Well, Richard III and A Christmas Carol. It’s not just about the performances, however, as the RSC trains generations of the very best theatre makers and nurture the talent of the future and reaches more more than half a million young people and adults each year through their transformative learning programmes Stratford-upon-Avon is in the heart of the West Midlands, a short drive from Junction 15 of the M40, giving good access to the M42, M5, M6 and M25. www.rsc.org.uk As it was, and to some extent remains, an engineering powerhouse, parts of the Heart of England took a fearful pounding in World War II with poor old Coventry, in particular, bearing the brunt of a hellish bombing campaign by the Luwaﬀe. Yet out of devastation came hope and this is illustrated perfectly by the new Coventry Cathedral.

coach parking is available in the nearby White Street Coach Park. For more information email visits@coventrycathedral.org. uk, call 02476 521234 or visit www.coventrycathedral.org.uk Coventry Cathedral sits alongside many of Coventry’s other visitor attractions so you can really make a day of it! Shakespeares schoolroom Immerse yourself in sixteenth century Stratford-upon-Avon to explore the very room where William Shakespeare sat as a pupil in the 1570s and the space where he ﬁrst saw plays performed by the country’s greatest actors of the day. Join a Tudor lesson with Master omas Jenkins, dress up in Tudor clothes and write with a quill, be informed by welcoming guides, and soak up the atmosphere of the medieval Priest’s Chapel. Whether a lifelong Shakespeare enthusiast or new to his enduring legacy, this authentic experience brings to life the story of young William. www.shakespearesschoolroom.org

PHOTO: David Tett

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R O YA L S H A K E S P E A R E T H E AT R E Unique gifts from our shop for the Shakespeare lover in your life.

ENJOY DELICIOUS FOOD AND DRINK From our Rooftop Restaurant and Riverside Cafe.

PHOTO: Elin Englund

With a guided tour including the public and behind-thescenes areas of the building.

RETAIL THERAPY PHOTO: Sam Allard

DISCOVER THE MAGIC BEHIND THE RSC

PHOTO: Sara Beaumont

There’s something for everyone at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Stop by to enjoy delicious food and drink with the best view in Stratford-upon-Avon, an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the history of the RSC, and even a bit of retail therapy.

Coventry Cathedral

FIND OUT MORE rsc.org.uk 01789 331111

Priory St, Coventry, CV1 5AB www.coventrycathedral.org.uk

Splendid medieval history meets modern architecture Explore our Ruined Cathedral, destroyed in the Coventry Blitz during WW2, standing proudly alongside our magnificent ‘casket of jewels’ the iconic ‘New’ Cathedral celebrates 60 years of modern architecture, and features works by some of the greatest artists of the 1950s and 1960s in a truly breathtaking setting. We have lots to explore including the New Cathedral, The Ruins, Blitz Museum and Tower Climb. Please visit our website for more information on booking your group tour : www.coventrycathedral.org.uk

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All groups welcome

London & South East

ondon and South East Type London into the Google search engine and you will get ﬁve billion, one hundred and twenty million results. It’s easy to understand why the number is so high as for so many people, our fantastic capital city is without peer on the world stage. To itemise every accommodation provider and attraction in London would prove nigh on impossible as there is, literally, something to do or see at every corner and so many of the greatest attractions and sites are free! Whether for entertainment

or cultural, historical and sporting pursuits, every group’s desires will be sated and memories will be made. e West End, alone, remains a magnet for domestic and international visitors alike and with its 39 theatres and countless pubs & restaurants, groups will ﬁnd a warm welcome in most. One of London’s best and most popular attractions for groups is Kew Gardens, an institution in British life and a body with a world class repulation. Kew Gardens is regularly at the top of the United Kingdom’s most visited paidfor attractions, it’s not

diﬃcult to see why. Spread over 300 acres the Gardens are home to 16,900 unique plant species and in 2019 it set set a new record for the largest living plant collection at a single site, according to Guinness World Records. e Gardens are open Weekdays, 10am* to 7pm (last entry 6pm), weekends and bank holidays, 10am* to 8pm (last entry 7pm) Visiting groups can enjoy Kew Gardens’ many cafes and restaurants and its shops are stocked with homeware, award-winning books, stationery and gi ideas. Groups of 15+ pay £14 per adult and £4:50 per child and for a group At Christmas

all bookings must be made by emailing the groups team at groups@kew.org When visiting by coach, drop oﬀ/pick up at the designated area immediately outside Elizabeth Gate and coach drivers of pre-paid groups receive free entry to the Gardens. ere is a Groups and Travel Trade newsletter details of which can be found at www.kew.org/kewgardens/visit-kew-gardens/gr oup-visits Call 020 8332 5648 for more information

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Mexico A vibrant celebration of plants, arts and culture

SHOPPING GUIDED TOURS GROUP DISCOUNTS EVENTS SNACK BAR RESTAURANT Covent Garden’s historic indoor Jubilee Market has plenty to offer groups for a fabulous shopping trip. You can also book our 45-minute guided walking tour of Covent Garden and include a refreshments package. info@jubileemarket.co.uk www.jubileemarket.co.uk @jubileemarket @jubilee.market @jubileemarket75

1 – 31 October 2022

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Only an hour, or so, down the road from Kew is the altogether more lively Jubilee Market in Covent Garden. Jubilee Market e Jubilee Hall, which houses the Jubilee Market, was designed and built in

atmosphere, ﬂags, hanging baskets and brass Jubilee Hall Market signage. From the moment you arrive, you are caught up in the hustle and bustle of diverse products from all across the UK. Jubilee Market has plenty to oﬀer to pre booked groups

listed status aer a renovation programme by CGHP Architects in the 1980’s. Nowadays, the market has a wide variety of eclectic arts and cras stalls, to antiques and general market items spread over three diﬀerent markets

tours, snack bar and restaurants. Local coach drop oﬀ and public toilets are a short walking distance away. e market is fully serviced with banks and bureau de change, and your group can use it as a central point to visit other London attractions including the Covent Garden Royal Opera House, the London Eye and Nelson’s Column in Trafalgar Square. Jubileemarket.co.uk London Symphony Orchestra: Save on worldclass musical outings

1904 by Bedells and Lander in the heart of Covent Garden and gained Grade 2

during a seven day. Jubilee Market is instantly recognisable with its exciting

for a fabulous shopping trip including discounted shopping, group guided 32

From orchestral and choral to jazz and gospel, the London Symphony Orchestra oﬀers an unforgettable experience of the best of live music. Based at the Barbican, London, they welcome some of the world’s greatest soloists and conductors across over 50 concerts each year, providing plenty of choice for regular

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WE WELCOME

GROUPS Over 50 unforgettable concerts each year

Epic symphonies & up-close recitals World-class soloists & conductors Opera, choral, jazz & gospel Evening & daytime options Groups of 10+ save up to 30% Dedicated booking service Reserve now, pay later

lso.co.uk/groups

concert-goers or those experiencing the powerful sound of an orchestra for the first time. eir exclusive benefits for groups of 10+ include savings of up to 30% per ticket with no booking fees, a dedicated and simple booking service, and obligation free reservations. ere are additional benefits for larger groups, from free drinks vouchers to private receptions, and complimentary tickets for group organisers. School groups of 10+ save with tickets at just £5 for under18s. Concerts from February to June 2023 announced late September. ere’s no better time to bag the best seats at a discount price. Visit lso.co.uk/groups. 33

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All groups welcome

North East

Bill Bryson, called it a ‘perfect little city. With many castles and historic buildings, not least the castles of Alnwick and Bamburgh, Hadrian’s Wall and Holy Island. ere are also other, perhaps, less celebrated attractions such as Dunstanburgh and Chesters Roman Fort near Hadrian’s Wall. Conveniently situated less than a mile oﬀ the A1 between Newcastle and Edinburgh, Alnwick Castle is an ideal destination for group

visits. e seat of the 12th Duke of Northumberland, Alnwick Castle, is as well known today for being the location of Hogwarts School of Witchcra and Wizardry in the Harry Potter ﬁlms as it is for being one of the most signiﬁcant historic buildings in the north east of England aer Windsor Castle, Alnwick is the second largest inhabited castle in England. Visiting groups will learn more about the castle’s 950year history including the role of the powerful Percy family.

Special exhibitions are housed in three of the castle's perimeter towers, which include ancient frescoes, groups of 14+ receive; discounted admission, free admission for driver and group leader, free dining voucher for driver, free parking and drop oﬀ, meet and greet service is available 01665 511 184 or e-mail groups@alnwickcastle.com

Shutterstock, Panglossian

he north east of England, this glorious area of land punches well above its weight. Northumberland dotted with quaint villages, castles, ruins and the great city of Newcastle or e Toon, never more than 90 minutes away. Only half an hour down the A1 is Durham – well worth a trip for its cathedral, alone...is there a ﬁner piece of Norman architecture in the land? e city, itself, isn’t too shabby and the celebrated travel writer,

Alnwick Castle The second largest inhabited castle in the UK

info@alnwickcastle.com

01665 511 100 34

alnwickcastle.com

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All groups welcome

North West or groups or individuals, the North West would appear to have it all and to do the region justice, a return trip is deﬁnitely the order of the day.

As our history lessons at school taught us, the North West was crucial in the development of the Industrial Revolution and Manchester’s wonderful Science and Industry Museum is a great group friendly attraction to ﬁnd out more. ere are also,

of course, two big football teams keen to welcome groups for a stadium tour...........and another in Liverpool, 30 miles, or so, down the road. I am not sure which is the best as that would be another discussion altogether! Liverpool, too, has its place in history and its place as a major port for exports during the Industrial Revolution cannot be overstated.

knocking out the tunes at 80, Sir Paul! Urban life aside one the United Kingdom’s most beautiful and visited areas is the Lake District – under three hours travelling from Liverpool or Manchester. Without resorting to shameless clichés, it’s diﬃcult to describe the Lake District; awesome, beautiful, spectacular, stunning ad inﬁnitum. As such, perhaps it’s enough to say, if you haven’t taken your group there, why not?!

I also recall that a well-known pop band came from the city – congratulations on

Windermere Lake Cruises It’s always a good time for groups to come to the Lake District and enjoy the many trips and tours provided by the area’s biggest paid for attraction – Windermere Lake Cruises. e Rails, Sails and Tails itinerary links together a cruise on England’s longest Lake, a trip on the nostalgic Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway and a visit to the enchanting e World of Beatrix Potter

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e Fur, Fin and Fun itinerary takes in a visit to the World of Beatrix Potter, a cruise on Windermere and tour of the Lakes Aquarium, at Lakeside. Attractive incentives for all pre-booked groups and their coach drivers remain in-place at the Boatman’s Café in Bowness where a variety of cruises on Windemere depart. For passengers, these include 10% discount vouchers to use in the café and gi shop, along with new menus, table service and convenient toilet facilities.

to whet tastebuds in June whilst e Southport Flower Show returns in August. e Southport Air Show takes to the skies in September and the British Musical Fireworks Championship takes place in September – more events are in the ‘What’s On’ section at VisitSouthport.com

Head south down the M6 come of at junction 29 and in no time your group will arrive in Southport. If you’re group would like a coastal destination that oﬀers plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the fresh air, then Southport is just the ticket. With its wide shopping boulevards, award-winning beach and coastline, spectacular gardens and magniﬁcent pier, Southport has long been recognised as one of the UK’s leading group-friendly destinations.

Visit Southport at any time and enjoy a walk along the pier or by Marine Lake. Relax in beautiful King’s Gardens or take a stroll on the awardwinning beach. Discover Lord Street, the unique Victoriancanopied, tree-lined shopping boulevard, and enjoy Southport’s famous outdoor café culture. Visit the new Southport Market, a purposebuilt food hall that champions local artisan suppliers.

For 2023, Southport Food and Drink Festival, looks set

Just to the north of Southport is historic Churchtown with

Shutterstock, Undivided

For drivers and group guides, the attraction oﬀers free parking, group rates, a

voucher for refreshments and the opportunity to purchase local gis at a reduced rate and to re-sell to passengers at the full rate. Contact Windermere Lake Cruises on 015394 43360.

its thatched roof cottages and the Botanic Gardens. Nearby, Martin Mere Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT) to see rare birds and pink ﬂamingos. Along the coast, Crosby Beach is home to art installation 'Another Place' by Antony Gormley, 100 iron life-size statues staring out to sea. Formby Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on the coastline with its natural dunes and extensive views. Southport has always looked aer coaches. ere’s a dropoﬀ point right in the heart of the town and a purpose-built, secure coach park at Esplanade, with a whole day’s parking for just £5. Visit www.visitsouthport.com, or email steve.christian@seon.gov.uk

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All groups welcome

Yorkshire

he stunning natural beauty of the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales is matched by the charming historical cities and gorgeous villages, it’s proud inhabitants call it “ God’s own country” it was home to the Brontë sisters – Charlotte, Emily, and Anne whose collective works were inspired by their magniﬁcent surroundings.

Helmsley Walled Garden is ﬁve glorious acres in the North York Moors National Park. A patchwork of small, intimate gardens is planted up with beautiful displays of

ﬂowers, fruit and vegetables. Used as one of the locations for the new ﬁlm version of e Secret Garden, it is full of colour and corners to explore as well as places to sit and relax. e garden is fully accessible and dogs are welcome on leads. Stroll along the Hot Border which zings with colour in summer, discover medieval medicinal herbs in the Physic Garden. Find out about their collection of Yorkshire apple varieties or just relax under a tree in the Orchard. e award-winning Vine House Café provides a range of delicious cakes and lunches with a changing specials board and a

collection of specially curated gins. eir garden shop and plant centre have a range of plants propagated in the garden as well as gis, cards, books, food and drink made in Yorkshire. Enjoy a day at this beautiful garden in the North York Moors. Group admission (minimum ﬁeen people) rates are – entrance only £7.50 per person. Entrance and guided tour £10.00 per person. North Yorkshire Moors Railway Looking for a great day out

ﬁlled with history and spectacular views? Look no further as the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) has announced that group tickets can now be purchased for a journey hauled by iconic locomotive, No. 4498 'Sir Nigel Gresley’. Tickets for the experience available in October departing from Grosmont to Pickering at 9.30am, 12.30pm and 3.30pm cost £43.00* for groups of 20+ and each passenger will receive a limited-edition gi bag featuring a ‘Sir Nigel Gresley’ Enamel Badge, NYMR Guidebook and pen and delicious Lottie Shaw

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es 23 vic ov! 20 S er N 5 ly ai ar D M 27

TE A R CED U D E R FO R S E R 20+ FA F O UPS O R G

EXPERIENCE 24 MILES OF YORKSHIRE’S AMAZING SCENERY The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is one of the world’s greatest heritage experiences with thrills and family fun at its heart. Let your group climb on board a steam or heritage diesel train on one of the most historic lines in the UK.

Book Now T: 01751 477700 E: grouptravel@nymr.co.uk

nymr.co.uk/groups

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Open March to December Relax in five tranquil acres Enjoy stunning and colourful floral displays Discover our heritage apple collections Eat at The Vine House Café Plant Centre and Gift Shop follow us on: D E Q www.helmsleywalledgarden.org.uk

biscuits.Built at Doncaster works, No. 4498 ‘Sir Nigel Gresley’ entered service in 1937 and was the 100th Gresley Pacific built by the London and North Eastern Railway. e locomotive was mainly based at London King's Cross, with a spell at Grantham during World War II and on 3rd June 1956 had the honour of hauling the Royal Train from Kings Cross to York with H.M the Queen on board. e "Stephenson Locomotive Society Special" of the 23rd May 1959 was the first train in the UK with a booked schedule of over 100 m.p.h. and set the official post-war speed record for steam traction of 112 mph.

advance. For more information on the

journey and to purchase tickets, visit: nymr.co.uk/

*Group tickets require a 50% deposit to book. Final group numbers must be conﬁrmed and balance paid 10 days in 40

sir-nigel-gresley / grouptravel@nymr.co.uk

Stocker1970, Shutterstock

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All groups welcome

South East

Our fascination with Great Britain’s military past shows no sign of abating and many groups are fascinated by the plethora of those attractions which celebrate our glorious past. At Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome near Chelmsford in Essex, visiting groups can explore the early days of British military aviation

chance to eat, visit the hangars and explore this impressive and atmospheric location. Open from 10am – 5pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It is possible to arrange visits on other days by special appointment although they cannot guarantee this. Please contact www.stowmaries.org.uk

through its air displays to Great War Living History, modern technology to the proms - there’s plenty to enjoy at this unique venue. You can explore their fascinating site, investigate their museum exhibitions, full of great interactives and objects and take in the atmosphere in the hangars of late production and replica FWW planes. e Airmen’s Mess provides a cup to tea and snack and groups are encouraged to purchase a memento from a wide range in the shop on the way out. Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome makes great eﬀort to look aer groups and all visits will be tailored to suit your group’s needs., with an average visit lasting up to half a day. A visit should last around half a day and please contact the aerodrome to enable them to build a bespoke package ror you and your group including the exhibitions, a

Save the date – Excursions 2023! Excursions™ is delighted to announce that the popular group travel show will return to Twickenham Stadium on Saturday 28 th January 2023. As the longest running group travel show, Excursions has ﬁrmly established itself as a must-attend event in the group travel calendar and has inspired and connected the group travel market for almost half a century. Despite a challenging few years for exhibitions, events and shows everywhere, 2022

was a particularly exciting year for Excursions as the show introduced a new hybrid format and also moved to its new home at Twickenham Stadium. e venue change was well received by both exhibitors and visitors alike and also generated some really useful feedback about what worked particularly well at the show and what participants would like to see in the future. e team have listened carefully and are working hard to bring on board as many of the positive ideas as possible. So what will Excursions 2023 look like? Subscribe at www.excursionsshow.com to keep up to date with the latest show news. For now, please save date – Saturday 28 th January 2023!

Shutterstock, Arturasker

he South East is renowned for its beautiful gardens and miles of stunning coastline. Rich in cultural attractions, the region is easily accessible from London, and is also home to gently rolling countryside, two National Parks and some of Britain's sunniest and driest weather! Which has made this a ﬁrm favourite for those seeking a great dayout, short break or holiday.

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All groups welcome

South West

f ever an area of the United Kingdom was made for tourism, the South West has to be it.

It would be impossible to list all those accommodation providers and attractions just waiting to welcome your group but suﬃce to say, they won’t end up with nothing to do or see! Devon & Cornwall are always popular but spare a thought for the other counties in this impressive region; Dorset, although, without an abbey there are several religious attractions which church groups will enjoy visiting. Wiltshire, too, has much more than Stonehenge, so rather than pass through on the way west, spend time getting to know its stately homes (Bowood House & Garden, Lacock Abbey or Wilton House. The impossibly beautiful and architecturally outstanding city of Bath has long been a favourite with groups and your preferred tour operator will be able to compile a package which will include all the sights which should be seen. Oh, yes, Bath chaps Camel Valley wine, cheddar cheese, cream tea, pasties, scrumpy and Wiltshire cure bacon – all scrumptious!

gallery, a second-hand bookshop and well-stocked gi shop. In the Visitor Centre, you'll ﬁnd a small yet bountiful plant centre, and a recently refurbished restaurant and café serving tasty homemade brunch, lunch and aernoon tea. Hestercombe can tailor an experience in a number of diﬀerent ways to suit your group’s requirements and was voted in the Top 50 CoachFriendly UK Attractions. For more details of group (15+) rates, visit www.hestercombe.com

Hestercombe Down Somerset way, Hestercombe's famously restored gardens span three centuries of garden history and design. e Formal Garden is hailed as one of the finest examples of the worldrenowned partnership between garden designer Gertrude Jekyll and architect Sir Edwin Lutyens. Sir Edwin Lutyen’s hallmarks are everywhere: iris-choked rills, pergolas, seats, relieved staircases and pools where reflections twinkle on recessed apses. Gertrude Jekyll’s planting is bold and simple, which adds vigour. e combination of Lutyen's design and Jekyll’s plants is extremely photogenic: Hestercombe is a highly rewarding garden to learn about symmetry, balance and proportion. e secret landscape garden, which Coplestone Warre Bampfylde laid out in the late 18th century, is a fair match for the Edwardian area: 40 acres (16.1ha) of lakes, temples, combes and woodlands that lay undiscovered for more than 100 years. Add to this arcadia, the centrepiece of Hestercombe House and you will see a reunited estate. Open to the public for the first time in more than 200 years, Hestercombe House offers a fascinating contemporary art

The Princess Theatre Culture-vultures soak up their historic past but there also another side to the South West and that’s entertainment. ere’s entertainment all year round at South Devon’s largest regional theatre, the Princess eatre in Torquay. It showcases the best West End and touring productions from across the UK. Offering a wide and varied programme including first class dance, music, famous names, drama, musicals, opera, comedy, and children’s shows. e Princess eatre welcome groups of all sizes to the 1600 seater arena and their weekly plays and musicals offer group discounts. From the annual Panto in December and even looking ahead to e Cher 44

Show and e Mousetrap in 2023, there are group deals available. If your group is simply visiting the Torquay area for the day, the stunning views from Bistro top deck, with coffee and a cake is worth a visit. Visit www.atgtickets/torquay for details, call the groups line on 020 7206 1179 or email torquaymarketing@theamb assadors.com The Teign Heritage Centre e sea is never far away in the South West and 20 minutes along the coast from Torquay is the little town of Teignmouth. e Teign Heritage Centre, home to the Teignmouth & Shaldon museum, is a small local history museum run entirely by volunteers. First opened in 1978 and extended in 2011 the two main galleries display the social history of the Teign Estuary. In the large foyer, alongside the small shop and coffee area, groups can explore the restored bathing machine and play on the old pier machines. e ground floor Sea gallery tells the story of the fishing industry and boatbuilding along the Teign. ere are cannons and other artefacts from the Church Rocks wreck, and cannon balls from the French invasion of the town in 1690. Read the story of the Bombardment of Algiers in 1816 when the

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TICKET SALES *0844 871 7615

GROUP BOOKINGS 0207 206 1174

ACCESS BOOKINGS 0800 912 6971

www.atgtickets.com/torquay *Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone company's access charge.

Tue 15 - Sat 19 Nov 2022

Mon 16 - Sat 21 Jan 2023

Groups 10+ £7 off Groups 40+ £10 off

TUE 13 - Sat 18 FEB 2023 Groups 10+ £5 off Groups 20+ £7.50 off

New shows added weekly. Check our website for details of all our upcoming shows Price Band Exclusions Apply. Not valid for Friday and Saturday performances

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English fleet, led by Admiral Pellew of Bitton House, freed 2000 European slaves. e first-floor gallery tells how Teignmouth and Shaldon became a popular tourist resort, the importance of the arrival of Brunel’s railway in 1846 and the Aerodrome on Haldon. Visit the roof terrace for views of the hills above the town. Teign Heritage Centre has a li to all floors and accessible facilities. Full details and admission charges are on the website www.teignheritage.org.uk For more information, group bookings and guided tours email: info@teignheritage.org.uk Buckfast Abbey Free to enter, the historic monastery of Buckfast Abbey, founded in 1018 and rebuilt stone-by-stone on its medieval

foundations between 1906 and 1937, is home to a working community of Roman Catholic Benedictine Monks. Located on the picturesque banks of the River Dart on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, the Abbey is a

haven of peace and tranquillity. Renowned for its stunning Abbey Church with its dramatic Lantern Ceiling, and its extensive grounds and gardens, visitors can also enjoy recitals of choral and organ music by internationally renowned choirs and organists; as well as the delicious lunches and cream teas oﬀered in e Grange Restaurant. Even larger groups can enjoy ﬁnding individual contemplation and quiet when strolling through the Abbey’s grounds. Buckfast Abbey can arrange bespoke tailormade tours, booking is essential.

Learn about Brunel’s Railway, shipbuilding on the Teign, and much more!

e Abbey also has three shops which oﬀer an extensive range of items produced by monasteries all over the world, from gis, cards and books, to food and drink.

For full details, opening times and admission prices, please visit our website. TEIGN HERITAGE CENTRE Teignmouth & Shaldon Museum, 29 French St, Teignmouth, TQ14 8ST (opposite the railway station)

For events and meetings, the newly refurbished Schiller Hall (part of St Cuthbert’s Conference Centre) is an inspirational space for hosting

teignheritage.org.uk 46

and is capable of catering for up to 120 delegates. For longer stays, visitors can explore the surrounding countryside from the comfort of the attractive and comfortable 33-bedroom onsite Hotel – Northgate House. Accommodation in Grangehurst House, a fiybed group accommodation block, is also available, offering an ideal base for groups taking part in activity holidays, such as canoeing, rambling and fishing. Easily accessible from Exeter, Plymouth, and many other surrounding areas, Buckfast Abbey is conveniently located just off the A38 Devon Expressway. Open between 10am – 4:30pm and there is ample free parking for coaches and cars. www.buckfast.org.uk

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FREE PARKING

A place of beauty and tranquillity The monks welcome you to their home and hope you find, peace and tranquillity here. Enjoy the Abbey's beautiful architecture and gardens, restaurant and shops, visit the Monastic Way. Why not stay overnight in Northgate House Hotel an ideal base from which to explore the surrounding countryside. Groups welcome, to book Groups: 01364 645532 or Accommodation: 01364 645630 and quote ALLGPSWEL23

Please go to our website to check opening times before you start your journey Abbey Church • Working Monastery • Gardens • Shops • Restaurant • Hotel & Conference Centre • Well behaved dogs on short leads welcome

Buckfast Abbey, Buckfastleigh, Devon TQ11 0EE • www.buckfast.org.uk

THE HEART OF DEVON

SCAN ME TO BOOK

www.pecorama.co.uk

Buckfast Abbey is a registered Charity No. 232497

FREE ENTRY

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Pecorama Pecorama attracts over 30,000 visitors a season to visit arguably the best 7.25 inch ride-on steam railway in the country. For over 45 years, the charming and sleepy fishing village of Beer in Devon, has been home to the Beer Heights Light Railway, which travels through the stunning grounds of its popular visitor attraction. Having been gradually extended over the years, Pecorama’s BHLR train line forms a complex, convoluted circuit now one mile in length. Passenger trains start and finish at the terminus of Much Natter Station, just inside the main garden entrance. e route starts off through the award-winning gardens and includes many over and under bridges, extensive sidings and a lengthy dark tunnel.

Following this, the trains venture out into the countryside and pass the new Deepwater station. Here passengers may choose to alight to enjoy the tranquillity of Lake Charlotte, the beautiful wildlife pond in Wildway Park, where there is also a nature walk and ﬁtness trail. e train then passes a branch line which zig-zags down very steep gradients to the Beer Mine. Pecorama is also proud to showcase its award-winning gardens and children’s entertainment areas, which include crazy golf, outdoor for every member of the family – and dogs are welcome too! www.pecorama.co.uk

group booking team who can tell you all about the great value group offers. ey can tailor make a coach holiday to the Devon Hotel in Torquay to and subject to minimum numbers, you can be picked up and transported to your hotel of choice in one of their comfortable and stylish coaches from any location in the UK. eir award-winning and friendly groups team will be on hand to guide you through every step of your group holiday to make sure your group experience is as smooth and straight forward as possible. Whether it's assisting with a rooming list, confirming pick up points or handling all those little cietais that can really make the difference, their team will be happy to help. Many of these groups travel with them year aer year-in fact many of their groups have more than one break a year with them.

Daish’s Hotels If your group is looking to get away, then why not get in touch with thier dedicated

Devonshire Hotel in Torquay e Devonshire is an ideal choice for a relaxing stay on the English Riviera. e hotel occupies a beautiful 1900's building set atop a hill overlooking the Tor Bay and the hotel gardens. e hotel boasts an outdoor heated pool which is available in the summer (open May-Sept). While the peaceful lounges and garden terrace provide a choice of relaxing spaces to unwind aer a day's sightseeing. You can enjoy a walk with a sea view down the hill to the town centre, but if you don't fancy the walk back up the hill, there is a regular bus service that stops at the hotel. ere's also a Blue Flag beach 48

just a 10 minute stroll away. For Full details of all their holidays visit www.daishs.com Mapperton was entered in the Domesday Book 1086 as Malperetone. It was then the property of William de Moion, Sheriﬀ of Somerset, who earned 70 shillings from arable land for four ploughs, twenty acres of meadow and pasture, woodlands and a mill. Mapperton, now a family home and estate near Beaminster in West Dorset. e family do hope you will come and visit the House & Gardens, join a tour at Mapperton Wildlands, stay in their holiday cottage or luxurious glamping tents and enjoy a delicious lunch & tea at the Coach House café. Mapperton welcomes many groups and coaches each year to visit their historic house and gardens, eir knowledgeable and friendly house guides provide visitors with an informative and entertaining tour of the house and the Sandwich collection of pictures and furniture.Special rates are available for groups of 10 people or more (or 6 or more people in March and October). Tours are usually held in the morning when the house is not open to the general public and can be followed by a visit to the gardens and Coach House café. 01308 742133 or email groups@mapperton.com Coach drivers will receive free entry to the house and gardens, as well as light refreshments, free parking and WC facilities. www.mapperton.com

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23 E 20 AL & NS 22 O 20 W NO

GREAT FOR

Groups Why not join the hundreds of groups that travel with us every year and discover all the benefits of Daish’s Holidays for yourself.

FREE

All our hotels are accredited as COVID safe under the Visit Britain good to go scheme

places for groups over 20 people

A choice of 12 fantastic hotels spread across 10 locations

Great value half board breaks including nightly entertainment

Fleet of 26 luxury coaches to provide comfortable travel

Dedicated groups team to support you from booking to arrival

Over 40 years of award winning customer service

Get in touch with us Today! Call 01202 638 841 or visit daishs.com

facebook.com/daishsholidaysforgroups

@daishs4groups

Isle of Wight

Bournemouth

Eastbourne

Newquay

Weymouth

Blackpool

Llandudno

Torquay

Lake District

Scarborough

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All groups welcome

Shutterstock, Lukasz PajorS

Wales

country of myths and legends an ancient language and over 400 castles is enough to tempt most people to visit it but let’s not forget about the long & glorious beaches and dark & moody mountains. ere are the valleys which once powered the Industrial Revolution and are now full of attractions and who can not think of one of the UK’s most beautiful National Parks, Snowdonia. If you add to the mix, the host of charming and traditional Welsh villages & towns such as Beddgelert, Betws-yCoed, Solva and St Fagans, you can see why a trip to

Wales is one which every group will enjoy.

Daytime and evening tours can be arranged for groups (minimum of 20) and a wide range of catering options are also available including hot and cold buﬀets, aernoon tea, carvery, historic menu, or 2 – 5 course meals. For menu prices and options, please call their catering manager.

Llancaiach Fawr Manor History is alive at Llancaiach Fawr Manor as it’s a Living History Museum. Groups can step back in time and enter the Manor, restored and furnished as it was in 1645 - when local allegiances changed from King to Parliament. e 17th century servants are always thrilled to show oﬀ their ﬁne house and have a good gossip. History is brought to life, ordinary people who lived in extraordinary times explain and talk about the folklore and superstition, which ruled their lives.

ey would be delighted to tailor your group visit (historical or paranormal) to your needs, based upon travel times and group size. e coach driver is entitled to free admission to the Manor and a meal. ere is ample coach parking onsite and they are just minutes away from the main A470. To 50

make a booking or for more information please call reception on 01443 412248 e Royal Mint Even older than Llancaiach Fawr Manor is e Royal Mint, which has been the home of UK Coin production for over 1100 years, with some of the most talented coin designers and crasmanship in the world, they create beautiful and unique coins. A visit to the Royal Mint Experience at Llantrisant starts with a behind the scenes tour of the circulating coin facility where groups can witness coins being struck for up to 60 countries

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worldwide as well as the UK. e attraction is also constantly evolving, from brand new temporary exhibitions dedicated to the Queens Jubilee to Markets at the Mint, New for 2022 with over 35 stalls all oﬀering locally produced items from Wales, available the last Saturday of each month at no extra cost. Planning is key to helping you as a group organiser create itineraries as far as you can in advance. With the magical season just around the corner, e Royal Mint will again be transformed in to a winter wonderland. With this, they are bringing back out Festive Aernoon Tea and exhibition package. As Santa takes over the tour to help with demand, they tweak theirgroup oﬀering just for you to make sure you can still visit us and

explore their 1100yrs history whist surrounded by blankets of snow, 25 Christmas trees, larger than life decorations and festive music paired with a tasty festive aernoon tea. www.royalmint.com If you’re looking for unique places to visit with groups, look no further than Rhondda Cynon Taf in South Wales. Nestled between the Brecon Beacons and Cardiﬀ, Rhondda Cynon Taf is home to some of the most entertaining venues in the UK. ey have history, heritage, culture and more than a touch of adventure all within their very scenic mountains and valleys. Visit A Welsh Coal Mining Experience at Rhondda Heritage Park and listen as the ex-coal miner coal guides

Maenordy Llancaiach Fawr . . . ymgollwch eich hunan ym 1645

Drwy ganiatâd caredig Banbury Photography • Image by kind permission of Banbury Photography

Llancaiach Fawr Manor . . . immerse yourself in 1645

www.llancaiachfawr.co.uk Heol Gelligaer, Nelson, Treharris, CF46 6ER ffôn: 01443 412248 Gelligaer Road, Nelson, Treharris, CF46 6ER tel: 01443 412248

The Diplomat Hotel Restaurant & Spa, Carmarthenshire, Llanelli - great for groups The Diplomat is a family run hotel,operated with charm, warmth and generous hospitality, ensuring that any visiting group receives a warm welcome and wonderful stay. This iconic Llanelli hotel was built in 1810, and today its bedrooms feature stylish décor, with TV, hairdryer, tea/coffee facilities and private bathroom. The Diplomat Hotel also boasts a modern health club with full service spa and indoor heated swimming pool. Guests can relax in the luxurious New Eden Spa, with facilities including a sauna, steam room, hot tub, gym and indoor pool. A range of health and beauty treatments are also available. Trubshaws Restaurant offers a modern menu for Lunch and Dinner. Traditional Welsh and lighter continental breakfasts are served each morning.The Diplomat hotel is in the perfect location to explore Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, the Gower Peninsula and all of south Wales.

For details of group rates call 01554 756156 or visit www.diplomat-hotel-wales.com 51

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take you underground and tell tales of mining life from an era when coal from the Rhondda powered the world. In addition to the tour there are fascinating exhibitions and the café is a perfect place to stop for refreshments. Just a short drive away, e Royal Mint Experience oﬀers tour groups the chance to take a look at how coins are made. Visitors can take a look behind the scenes, spend time in the interactive exhibition areas and also strike their own coin as a souvenir. Another great place for history lovers is Nantgarw China Works – the oldest surviving china works in the UK. is hidden gem oﬀers a fascinating tour and welcomes groups from all over the UK. For the whisky lovers, a tour at Penderyn Distillery is a

must where the tour takes you through the distillery area and into the tasting bar where the award winning whisky can be sampled. Penderyn also has some great gins on oﬀer and everything can be found in the very Welsh gi shop. If your tour group is feeling adventurous, Zip World Tower is the perfect place to visit. Zip World’s only site in South Wales is home to Pheonix – the world’s fastest seated zip line. Nestled in the stunning Rhigos mountain range, Zip World Tower is also home to the Tower Coaster and Cegin Glo which serves amazing food – and views! Looking for a new tour package? Look no further! Coin, Coal and Cheers is a brand new tour for group travel n South Wales. ree of South Wales’ leading

attractions have joined forces to create a new tour package for group travel. Coin, Coal and Cheers will allow clients to visit A Welsh Coal Mining Experience, the Royal Mint Experience and Hensol Castle Distillery for a fascinating day trip. For information on this particular package, call 01443 682036 or email groups@royalmint.com For further information on all that Rhondda Cynon Taf has to oﬀer, please visit www.visitrct.wales

welcome at this iconic Llanelli landmark. e 50 en-suite bedrooms in this country style mansion have a unique character with period features and idiosyncratic style. Groups not resident at the staying are welcome for lunch or aernoon tea but please make a reservation as the hotel is popular for such events. Call 01554 756156 or visit diplomat-hotel-wales.com

If your coach group is looking for a base to tour the area, e Diplomat Hotel in Llanelli will ensure they have a wonderful stay from which to do so. With parking for ﬁve coaches, a personal greeting from a hotel manager or supervisor, groups will ﬁnd a warm

Commissioned and built in 1824-25, Cyfarthfa Castle was constructed for ‘e Ironmaster’ William Crawshay II, who was one of the most inﬂuential men in Wales at the time. It is now home to a popular Museum and Art Gallery which is open to the public

T HE ORI GI NAL M AK E R

Group visits at The Royal Mint Experience Discover some of the most amazing stories in coinage history through a wide range of awe-inspiring exhibits at The Royal Mint Experience. – See the official London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic medals – – Discover The Queen’s reign through coins in our Platinum Jubilee inspired exhibition – – Create your very own commemorative coin as a memento of your visit – Children go for £5 with a Group Discover more at royalmint.com/the-royal-mint-experience/group-visits/ groups@royalmint.com

0333 241 2223

C E L E B R AT E | C O L L E C T | I N V E S T | S E C U R E | D I S C O V E R

Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery

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Taith Pyllau Glo Cymru A Welsh Coal Mining Experience

Mae Rhondda Cynon Taf, sy'n cynnwys rhai o'r golygfeydd mwyaf mawreddog yn y DU, yn daith o ddim ond 30 munud mewn car o Gaerdydd, prifddinas Cymru. Mae'n hawdd cyrraedd Rhondda Cynon Taf o'r M4, ac mae nifer o atyniadau unigryw gall grwpiau eu mwynhau. Ewch dan ddaear a darganfod ein treftadaeth ddiwydiannol unigryw yn Nhaith Pyllau Glo Cymru ym Mharc Treftadaeth Cwm Rhondda. Beth am ymweld â Phrofiad y Bathdy Brenhinol? Dyma gyfle i chi wylio darnau arian Y Deyrnas Unedig yn cael eu creu. Ewch ar daith yn Nistyllfa Wisgi Penderyn a blaswch gynnyrch sydd wedi ennill gwobrau yn y Bar Blasu. Ewch ar daith o amgylch Crochendy Nantgarw cyn mwynhau te, brechdanau a chacennau yng Nghrochendy hynaf Y Deyrnas Unedig.

Featuring some of the most majestic scenery in the UK, Rhondda Cynon Taf is a mere 30 minute drive from Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. Easily accessible from the M4, we have lots of unique attractions for groups to enjoy. Go underground and enjoy a tour of Welsh Mining History at A Welsh Coal Mining Experience. Zip World Tower

Visit the Royal Mint Experience and watch as UK coins are made. Tour Penderyn Whisky Distillery and enjoy award winning products at the Tasting Bar. Take afternoon tea and a tour at Nantgarw China Works, the oldest surviving china works in the UK. Fly the Phoenix – the world’s fastest seated zip line at Zip World Tower. Profiad y Bathdy Brenhinol The Royal Mint Experience

Gwibiwch drwy'r awyr ar gefn y 'Phoenix' - gwifren wib gyflymaf y byd â seddau yn Zip World Tower. Distyllfa Penderyn Penderyn Distillery

Amgueddfa Crochendy Nantgarw Nantgarw China Works Museum

RHAGOR O WYBODAETH AR EIN GWEFAN: FIND OUT MORE AT:

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regular programme of events run throughout the year.

Guardian on 19th August 1864 reported -

If you would like to be contacted about their activities email merthyrnats@gmail.com

The Flower show.

Canolfan Cyfarthfa

throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy a yearly programme of walks, talks, workshops and exhibitions or explore the Museum which is a testament to the spirit of the working man, Merthyr's spirit and the story which makes Merthyr so important in history for Wales and Britain as a whole. Miniature Railway e Miniature Railway Engineering Society and Miniature Railway Company’s steam train rides provide brilliant family entertainment in Cyfarthfa Park. Situated next to the beautiful Cyfarthfa Lake picturesque fun-ﬁlled trips are available throughout the year with themed rides regularly advertised on their Facebook page. The Lake e lake was built in 1824 as part of the original romantic style landscape design. e lake was, and still is, one of the most signiﬁcant features in the park. It was also however, an essential reservoir providing water for the ironworks. It’s claimed that the lake, with its feeder canal, cost as much as the house itself to construct. e lake is fed via the 1.6km long Gurnos quarry feeder, a canal sometimes referred to

e recent refurbishment of the Canolfan at Cyfarthfa Park provides a perfect spot to sit back and relax whilst watching your children enjoy themselves in the new play area and splash pad. Take in the views across the park from the new café, decking and alfresco seating area. e Canolfan also oﬀers toilets and accessible changing rooms at the Splash Pad.

as the Leat, which runs above the earlier tramway built in 1792. At some point aer 1902, when Merthyr Tydﬁl Borough Council purchased the property for use as a municipal park, a boathouse was added where visitors could hire a rowboat for the aernoon. Bothy

Cyfarthfa Ice House One of Cyfarthfa Park’s hidden gems is the recently restored Ice house. At 30 feet deep, it could store up to 18 tonnes of ice from the winter through to the summer. It is thought that during winter, ice and snow was gathered from the feeder ponds above the castle. is was then used to ﬁll the ice house and during summer months blocks of ice would be taken and put into the castle to cool the rooms down.

e brand new Bothy Heritage Centre is open at Cyfarthfa Park – it’s where the adventure starts! Open daily from 1000 to 1600pm. Monday to Friday. It’s also where you’ll find – Merthyr Gold honey, discover art, heritage and the natural world. Visit the Hive Café to fill up on tea and cake before perusing the arts and cras or heritage books on offer. Or why not get involved in the adventure of discovery by taking one of the creative workshops. But remember ‘One should never go adventuring on an empty stomach’ Winnie the Pooh’. Perfect to hire for meetings, training sessions and celebrations . Run by a combination of volunteer bodies such as e Merthyr Naturalists, Brecon Bees, the Melting Point and Active Heritage with a

The Glass House e glasshouses are Cyfarthfa Park have been a longstanding feature. Once the pride and joy of the head gardener Mr Bartram. e glasshouses produced plants, palms and prize winning pineapples amongst a variety of other edibles. e Annual Flower Show in the 1860’s saw many ﬁrst prize awards e Cardiﬀ and Merthyr 54

ere were cherries with their glossy coat, and gooseberries just emerging into maturity. Melons and pineapples, too, the ﬁnest were shown by Mr. Crawshay. During the Second World War, the gardens were used to produce food as part of the Dig for Victory campaign. In more recent years the greenhouses have been used to grow the thousands of bedding plants needed for the Borough’s parks and open spaces. Cyfarthfa Ponds e recently refurbished ponds at Cyfarthfa Park played a vital role in keeping Cyfarthfa Castle selfsuﬃcient. ey had three main functions. 1. As balancing ponds, constructed soon aer the building of the castle, to regulate the water level of the lake. 2. As feeders, through recently discovered sump and stone cut pipe systems for the extensive greenhouses and 3. To replenish the ice house with snow and ice during winter. www.cyfarthfa.com

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Cyfarthfa Park

Just off the A470 at Mer thyr

@VisitCyfarthfa #DiscoverCyfarthfa @VistCyfarthfa #DiscoverCyfarthfa Look out for our new walks, talks and and workshops! workshops! Look out for our new walks, talks Visit: www.cyfarthfa.com Visit:www.wellbeingmerthyr.co.uk

Merthyr

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All groups welcome

Spotlight on Goodwood Racecourse ere's nothing quite like Goodwood Racecourse for a group get-together; from a choice of restaurants and bars, entertainment on and oﬀ the track, and a dedicated coach park, enjoy a fabulous day out on e Downs. What's more, their dedicated groups' space, the Sussex Lounge, oﬀers a relaxing base for the day, including a bar service, tipster board, betting facilities, and access to grandstand seating. With a truly world-class line-

e Manx heritage railways are an essential part of any trip to the Isle of Man and can really make your holiday more memorable and give you some great photo opportunities.

up in 2023, from thrilling race days to epic DJ nights, they’ve got everything required for a memorable day at the races. ey know it's not easy organising big groups, so not only have they got a team on hand ready to help make your booking, but also some added beneﬁts including group discounts, complimentary entry for driver and a risk-free sale or return policy. 01243 3755055. www.goodwood.com

Rather than the generic, unfriendly, but fast railways you may be used to, the Manx railways take a more relaxed approach where the journey really is just as important as the destination. e Isle of Man Steam Railway is one of the most

Isle of Man Railways

noticeable sights on the island and this Victorian marvel is perfectly frozen in time. Once part of a longer route running to Peel and Ramsey, the current Southern route runs from Port Erin to Douglas at a distance of just over 15 miles. With a range of heritage attractions located near railway stations in the South of the Island you can easily make a trip out of hopping on and oﬀ the train to see some of the local sights.

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A Glorious Day Out for Groups There’s nothing quite like Goodwood Racecourse for a group get-together; with 19 fabulous fixtures, discounted tickets, complimentary coach parking and a great choice of delicious food concessions and bars, we’ve got everything you need to enjoy a brilliant day at the races.

2023 Fixtures Season Opener

Qatar Goodwood Festival

Friday 5 — Saturday 6 May

Tuesday 1 — Saturday 5 August

May Festival

August Bank Holiday Weekend

Friday 26 — Saturday 27 May

Friday 25 — Sunday 27 August

Three Friday Nights

Midweek Racing

Friday 9, 16 & 23 June

Tuesday 5 & Wednesday 27 September

Family Race Day

Season Finale

Sunday 11 June

Sunday 15 October

Tickets from £9.60 with a group discount. To find out more about group and coach bookings, please get in touch by emailing ticket.office@goodwood.com or calling 01243 755055

goodwood.com

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at said, the train itself is an experience. With loud noises, soot, smoke and whistling it is a great journey for every member of the family. If you want to head out of Douglas, perhaps to visit the Laxey Wheel or Snaefell during your holiday then there are other, just as interesting options. e Manx Electric Railway oﬀers a leisurely journey where you can get incredible views of the Manx countryside and coastline and the Snaefell Mountain Railway gets you up to a superb location with a cafe and views out over the six kingdoms www.rail.im Westonbirt Arboretum Whether your group is passionate about plants, or

just looking for somewhere beautiful to escape, Westonbirt’s 15,000 trees from around the globe, make it the one of the most mature and extraordinary arboretums to be found anywhere in the world.

before visit. ey take groups bookings for their amazing Enchanted Christmas light trail. Set out on the illuminated trail and discover a magical world of breathtaking light spectacles and interactive displays amongst the magniﬁcent trees of Westonbirt! Why not take a journey up into the canopy on the STIHL Tree Top Walkway, stop by the café for a tasty treat or lose yourselves amongst the trees? Email westonbirt@f orestryengland.uk to discuss your group booking.

Westonbirt is home to 2,500 diﬀerent species from the far corners of the globe and 5 national tree collections, so your visit will not be without breath taking nature Enrich your visit to Westonbirt by pre-booking a seasonal guided walk to unpick all the myths and stories behind the trees and the arboretum’s history. Take in all the seasonal highlights with one of their experienced and friendly guides for only £50 per 15 people. Walks and tours last up to an hour and a half and must be booked in advance 21 days

Ireland Discover 800 years of history and visit one of Ireland’s oldest castles in Malahide, stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens, meander through the magical fairy trail

and indulge at Avoca. Visit www.malahidecastleandgardens.ie en a shirt detour from the castle take a stroll to Ireland’s only model railway. Housed in a beautifully restored Casino cottage and located in the village you will be blown away by the exquisite collection. Visit www.modelrailwaymuseum.ie Why not visit Dublin’s best kept secret and step into an 18th century rambling Georgian mansion that has been impeccably restored – do the Upstairs-Downstairs tour and explore the 35 acre working farm and just take it all in……Magniﬁcent - Visit www. newbridgehouseandgardens.com

We ramble on and on #ThatIslandFeeling

In under an hour, you can take a walk on our wild side. Plan your getaway at visitguernsey.com

11322-VG ALL GROUPS ANNUAL GUIDE SEPT 2022.indd 3

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Spring River Cruises Our 2023 Spring Cruise Collection is now on sale Included on all our river cruises • Spacious and beautifully appointed suites or cabins with hotel-style beds and river views

Bruges, Medieval Flanders, Amsterdam & the Dutch Bulbfields April 2023 | 8 days from £1,459pp

• Return flights from a choice of regional airports or standard class reserved seat on Eurostar from London St Pancras† • Return rail connections on selected dates and cruises from over 50 regional stations†

Amsterdam, Cologne & the Best of Holland & Flanders April to October 2023 | 8 days from £1,399pp

The Douro, Porto & Salamanca

• Exceptional cuisine with full board throughout

March to November 2023 | 8 days from £1,569pp • Extensive and fully inclusive touring programmes • The services of our experienced cruise director and concierge • Option to add three nights to your holiday with a hand-picked hotel stay with one of our expertly chosen city stays

Rhine Cruise to Switzerland May to October 2023 | 8 days from £1,499pp

2022 DEPARTURES STILL AVAILABLE

Money back or free places for groups*

To book, check availability or to request a brochure

Call 01283

742 322 Visit rivieragroups.co.uk

Email groups@rivieratravel.co.uk Some elements are not commissionable – for full details see RivieraGroups.co.uk. Riviera Travel retain the right to withdraw this offer at any time. †Supplement may apply. *Groups of any size accepted but some offers of free places and money back require a minimum number of 8+ travelling.