GTT Issue 3

Today

Volume 13 Issue 3 2020

London & South East

Oxford’s Artisan Distillery

Group Getaways Ireland t en m e l p p u S

Northumberland South West Supplement

Johnsons Journal plus Special Feature ... Northern Italy

shutterstock elitravo

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Group Travel Today

Contents

Mevagissey Cornwall

I hope to find you all safe and in good health.

scheduled time but are now in the diary.

To say the last few months have been, to use a word that has featured heavily in the media unprecedented is an understatement.

Another positive point Pauline makes is that only 4 out of a total of 120 have cancelled the 3 upcoming UK tours and they were due to a clash of commitments or health issues.

Hopefully, we are over the worse, the wonderful self- sacrificing staff at the NHS have done us proud, the lockdown measures put in place are being relaxed and things are slowly returning to “normal”.

We know there is still a huge appetite for group travel, as many of you have been in touch, for some it’s the only way they feel confident to travel, relying on the organisers and tour operators to arrange where? when? how? all that’s left to do is pack the case, many participants believe that their brilliant GTO’s can even arrange the weather!

Many groups plan to travel in the last few months had to be cancelled, but have been rolled forward to later this year or early next year, our Group Travel Group Organiser Guru Pauline Johnson tells us that in the short term, her intrepid group of adventurers will venture closer to home.

It would appear there is nothing that will keep us from the experience and joy of travel, especially when shared as a group.

Please take the time to read this edition Johnsons Journal in full it is informative and uplifting.

Our special feature is in Northern Italy, a place in the headlines earlier in the year for all the wrong reasons, take a peek at what this area has to offer, look now book later?

Finally, may I take this opportunity to thank all the contributors and advertisers without whom producing this issue would have been impossible

News

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Spotlight Oxford Artisan Distillery

6

Johnsons Journal

8

AGTO

10

Where in the World?

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Special Feature Northern Italy

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Northumberland

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South West Supplement

15

Houses of Historical Interest

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Christmas

23

Group Getaways

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Sea Carriers

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Heart of England

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London & South East

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Lake District

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Ireland Supplement

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With the current Covid 19 pandemic evolving situation please check with attractions to confirm if any restriction will apply Top Picture :shutterstock_Charlesy Bottom Picture: shutterstock_Nik Merkulov

Front Cover: Italy View of San Giulio island at Lake Orta, Piedmont, Italy

Beau Business Media Group Ltd Publishing House, Windrush, Ash Lane, Birmingham, B48 7TS Tel: 0121 445 6961 Fax: 0121 445 4436 email: beaubusinessmedia@gmail.com

Keep Safe Nigel

Sales: Emma L Middleton Brett James Kirby Tel: 0121 445 6961 Contributors: Chris Wales, Carol Dowe Davies Design: Alexina Whittaker & Paul Hemsley Production: Laura Collins Managing Director: Nigel Whittaker Publishing Director: Hugh Cairns

Pauline also praises her tour operators for being incredibly supportive in re-arranging tours that were not able to go ahead at the

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News

Group Travel Today

Borde Hill Garden Welcomes Small Group Visits Borde Hill is now open for prebooked small groups as well as individuals, in line with the latest government guidelines.

Small groups can pre-book a 45 minute tour of the Garden with an experienced guided followed by a cream tea for just £18.95 per person.

government guidance issued on 4th July.

Why choose Borde Hill?

It is a tranquil garden with friendly staff and easy access, and boasts an award-winning collection of plants. We have introduced a simple and effective one way system which ensures visitors are able to safely enjoy the beauty of the 17 acre formal Garden and the 10 acres of woodland beyo The garden rooms are in full

A beautifully decorated marquee in the Garden is ideal for small gatherings and reduced rate hire and catering prices are available* for this summer and autumn. *In line with

colour and stunning views of the Ouse Valley can also be enjoyed. The rare collection of trees makes Borde Hill a plantsman’s paradise, and a truly special garden to visit.

There is a café in the grounds for takeaway light refreshment.

Bookings@bordehill.co.uk.

The EU Commission Formally Launches The Re-open EU Website The EU Commission has now formally launched the Reopen EU website, which is designed to support a safe relaunch of travelling and tourism across Europe. It will

provide real-time information on borders and available means of transport and tourism services in Member States as well as practical information provided by

Great news for theatre goers especially those who love musicals that include jazz hands!

theatre geniuses of John Kander, Fred Ebb and choreographer Bob Fosse, the musical’s score includes the show-stopping songs Razzle Dazzle, Cell Block Tango, and All That Jazz.

Winner of six TonyAwards, two Olivier Awards and a Grammy, it’s the longestrunning American musical in Broadway and West End history.

Chicago the musical is to open in March 2021 at the Birmingham Alexandra Theatre before travelling across the country.

The story takes place during the razzle-dazzle excesses ofthe 1920s, Chicago tells the tale of Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who murders her lover after he threatens to walk out on her.

Frantic to evade conviction, she hoodwinks the public, the media and her rival cellmate, Velma Kelly, by hiring Chicago’s slickest criminal lawyer to transform her malicious crime into a barrage of sensational headlines, the likes of which might just as easily be ripped from today’s tabloids.

Created by the musical

Member States on travel restrictions, public health and safety measures. The creation of this website was announced in previous EU Tourism Ministerial meetings

and May’s EU tourism guidance package. The UK, as a non-Member State, isn’t included on the website.

The Gardens at Renishaw Hall are open Online Booking Required

Further dates will be revealed soon along with casting.

• visit acres of award winning gardens to explore

Chicago at The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham Chicago at The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham from Friday 12th March to Saturday 20th March 2021.

• open Friday to Sunday 10.30 - 1.00pm & 1.30 - 4.00pm • book online renishaw-hall.co.uk/garden-entry • vineyard tours & wine tasting on selected dates • view our Covid-19 statement in full on our website

visit www.renishaw-hall.co.uk or call 01246 432310 4

Now reopen

Group Travel Today

Spotlight - Oxford Artisan Distillery Great news here’s a great attraction to tour, what’s not to like, delicious gin vodka and rye all to sample, it’s good for you, and it’s organic.

to experiment and refine, they bottle their spirits with the reverence they deserve.

an opportunity to ask questions and taste a selection of their spirits.

In fact, from the terroir of the soil to the temptation in each sip, every aspect has been meticulously considered and painstakingly honed.

FOUNDER'S TOUR 90 MINUTES

Tours They welcome visitors to the distillery for a behind-the scenes-experience where you can discover the principles of their approach to distilling and follow the production processes which make their craft spirits so special.

Group Tours

Discover Artisan Distilling The Oxford Artisan Distillery, this ancient city’s first distillery, they cultivate, craft, create and curate the very finest spirits using sustainably grown populations of ancient heritage grain. The rare and distinctive subtleties in the spirits are a direct result of the dedication to selecting genetically diverse rye, wheat and barley grown on small, local farms.

In addition to growing their grain, they've built their hand made beautiful copper stills, these beautiful riveted copper stills were built in conjunction with Paul Pridham, England’s last great steam engine boiler-maker who took inspiration from Jules Verne, they designed their 2,200 litre central still, Nautilus, as well as its 500-litre partner, Nemo – allowing them all the flexibility needed

Hosted by one of the three founders this tour gives a unique insight into the journey from conception all the way to bottle! They will spend time on how they source their ingredients and the work that goes into making their vodka, gin, absinthe and rye whiskey.

After this in-depth tour, they will host an extended tasting session, taking you through all their different spirits and finishing with a large gin and tonic. www.theoxfordartisandistillery.com

STANDARD TOUR 45 MINUTES You’ll be shown how they make their vodka, gin, absinthe and rye whisky following every step of the journey from seed to still and into the bottle. This close you’ll gain a real appreciation of the extra mile they go to make The Oxford Artisan Distillery a true craft distillery. They finish with

“”striving for organic perfection”

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DISTILLERY

TOURS Visit Oxford’s #1 Attraction*

“Brilliant tour!”

“Awesome and Delicious Gin/Vodka” “A great experience!”

Join us for a unique, behind the scenes experience.

You will taste our award-winning spirits and discover the principles behind our approach to distilling.

You can book your tour online at www.theoxfordartisandistillery.com or call 01865 767918 to speak to a member of staff.

*Trip Advisor’s #1 of 160 Things to do in Oxford

Group Travel Today

Johnsons Journal

The continuing, amazing adventures of Pauline & Ken, on their travels around the globe

What a change a few days can make to all our plans.

When the Coronavirus first came to light we were all looking forward to holidays in the UK and abroad then suddenly it was self-isolation and what has been termed ‘Boris walks’ waving to each other at the stipulated two metres apart, keeping in touch via the telephone, email, Skype or social media.

As a Club we had planned a City break to Bath at the end of March and a coach trip to Northern Ireland at the beginning of June, both with Norman Allen Group Travel.

There was also to have been a holiday in Cornwall in April.

To date we have rescheduled all our March to August 2020 coach tours to 2021 with all deposits being transferred. The two sell-out tours to Imagna Valley in Italy in June are being rescheduled to 2022, as is possibly our September Isle of Man trip. A provisional date in May 2022 has been secured with the hotel and now its just a case of wait and see what happens nearer the time.

Our two main tour operators, Success Tours and Norman

Ladies ready for bely dancing class Allen Group Travel, have been very supportive and kept in regular contact.

There is a positive side to the rescheduling for our Bath, Northern Ireland and Essex tours as we have been able to tweak this year’s itinerary slightly to, we hope, make the tours even better value. It is also very heartening, for both myself and the Tour Operator of the three UK tours, that only 4 people out of a total of 120 overall have cancelled and that was due to other commitments or

health issues.

The reverse is true of the planned overseas tours for 2021. The April trip to Puglia in Italy had over half the people who had sent in booking forms recall them. A proposed Japan tour in May 2021, which had shown a great deal of interest when it was first mentioned, only attracted 9 bookings so was cancelled. We still have some people keen to go to Puglia in September 2021 BUT many have said that they won’t go anywhere abroad until there is a vaccine. Travel Insurance Companies that I have had dealings with have now included covering the virus if you develop suspected symptoms or are confirmed to have it when abroad, but with exclusions.

The biggest problem that we have as a group, because of social distancing rules, is coach travel, which is always an integral part of the package. We need transport to and from all the airports in UK and abroad and also for travel at our destinations.

Some venues are opening but with pre-booked slots which will exclude large

Camel with the hump in 'Cairo" 8

group bookings. What the majority of my group are now requesting is UK tours to replace the European tours for 2021 and maybe into 2022 once coach travel is viable again.

My group has nearly 500 members so it is not possible to keep in contact with everyone and we really miss our bi-monthly meetings, which nearly 200 members attend. However, rather than impersonal emails to advise the cancellation of day trips, myself and another member telephone all those concerned. I am also doing a regular monthly newsletter not just about Club business but what Ken and I have been doing in lockdown which then generates emails and telephone calls for chats about gardening and swapping of plants and advice.

Another topic of conversation, amongst those that went, was how lucky we were to have managed, at the end of February, to go to the Tynedale Hotel in Llandudno. I booked this trip through Jamesway Travel in Rugby. It was a 5 day

Group Travel Today

Landlubbers Cruise, first launched by the hotel in 1992 and the ‘cruises’ run throughout February – April each year.

We arrived in Llandudno midafternoon and were greeted by the ‘crew’ and a ‘dragon’. Once we had embarked and had our passports stamped, we retired to the lounge for coffee and cake whilst our cases were taken to our cabins. We had the full crew ‘what happens in an emergency’ speech before

dress and cooking from woks in the centre of the room. I had an embroidered jacket from Thailand in my wardrobe and this was an ideal time to give it an airing.

After dinner we all retired to the lounge for a short game of bingo and then the nightly entertainment.

Next day we had our passports stamped as we disembarked to go on our first day’s coach excursion, just a short trip as we had to be back on board in time for afternoon tea in the next

God Set, Pauline & Pharaoh the restaurant.

Onwards then to our next port of call, but with a slightly longer shore excursion. Back on board and we were now in Cairo. Two Egyptians, The Pharaoh and the God Set welcomed us into the lounge and we were invited to an Egyptian belly dance class with all but one from our group taking part. Hilarious to say the least! A ‘work-out’ that could be used during the present home confinement period. There were hand actions called switching on a light bulb, a version of the sand dance, and yes, we all felt we deserved our tea and cake that day.

Group in Great Gatsby style the ship’s horn sounded and we set sail for Tokyo. In the restaurant the cook and serving staff were in oriental

The final day when we disembarked we stayed in the ‘port’. It was a very windy day but that didn’t stop

port of call - Rome. Dinner was Italian-style and the Pope stood on his balcony as we descended the stairs to

anyone from venturing out and enjoying the sunshine.

Back on board for our final night and as we were going to be in New York we had Apple Pie with our tea and deck games in the afternoon. Ken won the throw the beanbag through the porthole competition.

That night we had a 1920’s ‘Gatsby’-style Captain’s night. The entire group had entered into the spirit of the evening and were dressed up to some extent. Some had hired costumes, others adapted clothes they had in their wardrobes. Ken and I were invited to sit at the Captains table. The wine flowed and the food was as it had been all week, excellent. We have booked for 2021 and are hoping for another full coach from those who weren’t able to go this year.

I recently invited longstanding members who regularly go on the holidays and day trips to tell me what their favourite memories of trips were and why. The sheer number of trips stretching back 10 years or more, and the memories that they evoked, had me delving into the archives for photos. I plan to put some boards up for people to browse when we eventually meet up as well as fill several pages in our annual magazine. A positive is that when it does come to compiling the magazine it will be much easier this year because of the rescheduling of so many holidays and day trips into 2021.

Ken, Richard & Terry with the Great Gatsby girls 9

AGTO MATTERS

Group Travel Today

Adversity and opportunity Since the start of lockdown the importance of technology in keeping communities connected has become clear. But will this new found confidence in technology mean that a new generation starts to appreciate the benefits of online research and information? Wendy Hartley-Scarff, chief executive of AGTO, the Association of Group Travel Organisers, reviews what’s been happening.

Benjamin Franklin, one of the founding fathers of the United States of America, famously wrote: “Out of adversity comes opportunity”.

There’s no doubt that in our different ways we’re all facing adversity. Being in lockdown has meant that because we’ve been unable to get out and about as we would have

liked we’ve had to find new ways to keep ourselves informed and entertained.

For many group travel organisers going online has long been second nature as we look for information. The internet is a veritable treasure trove of nuggets of information just waiting to be discovered, even if we do sometimes end up being side-tracked as we spot something ‘interesting’ just a click away!

However, for many older people, the internet has often been somewhere to be avoided. Emails may have been mastered, just, but for many, website browsing, search engines and apps are joys yet to be discovered.

But as the effects of lockdown started to hit home we began to hear about something called ‘Zoom’, an opportunity to chat online with family and friends. Webinars, the digital name for a seminar, started popping up all over the place giving an opportunity to grab a cuppa, sit in a comfy chair, and find out about the future of river and ocean cruising, air travel and, well, almost every aspect of holiday travel.

AGTO Showcase 2019 - Wollaton Hall, Nottingham

Enjoying a theatre production, an opera or a stage musical have suddenly all become possible, and all from the comfort of home.

For an older population this sudden explosion in communication technology could have been all rather scary. But what I’ve discovered, in talking with our members, many of whom are in the 60-plus age group, is the way they have wholeheartedly embraced the opportunities the new technology has brought their way.

Having been guided, often by family or friends, to set up an online chat or to view a webinar, it’s been a small step to understanding website browsing, search engines and apps. A growing percentage of older people now have the confidence to go exploring online, discovering, like we all do, places they might not otherwise have found.

At AGTO we’ve also been updating the way that our members can communicate between themselves. Over recent months we’ve increased our presence across social media, posting and engaging on channels including Instagram,

A growing confidence in going online is helping GTOs discover new ideas for their groups

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Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and LinkedIn. On Facebook we have separate pages for each of our regional branches.

These have become really important ways to keep in touch with each other and to keep up to date with news and what’s happening. We’ve also launched a new website that gives our 200 or so Associate members (destinations, visitor attractions, hotels and other industry suppliers) the opportunity to keep our 400 or so GTO members updated with news about special offers and product news.

AGTO is the UK’s largest independent, professional membership organisation supporting and representing the interests of individuals who organise travel for groups.

Our members have shown a remarkable resilience in face of adversity, with many taking advantage of the new opportunities that have arisen. You feel that Benjamin Franklin would have approved. www.agto.co.uk

Group Travel Today

Where on Earth?

Eve’s Favourite Fruit?

The original apple tree came from Central Asia, where you can still find its wild predecessor, Malus sieversii.

As we all know an apple a day keeps the Doctor away, so it’s know wonder that apples have religious and mythological significance in many cultures, including Norse, Greek and European Christian tradition.

Grown for thousands of years in Asia and Europe, they eventually made their way to North America via European colonists, which begs the question so what’s so American about apple pie?

Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees – Maui, Hawaii Amazing Rainbow Eucalyptus trees are nature’s miracle.

Our planet is bursting with unique designs and Rainbow trees fall into that category.

These trees are also known as Eucalyptus deglupta, Mindanao Gumand the Rainbow Gum, the origin of the species is still a mystery to scientists with South America or Australia as front runners.

The lucky people of Indonesia and the Philippines can also admire their beauty as they are also found there.

King's Landing Dubrovnik Croatia.

Even if you weren’t addicted to Game of Thrones as so many were, you will have undoubtedly heard others talking about it as if it was fact.

Dubrovnik was the principal filming location in Croatia for King’s Landing, the imaginary city in Game of Thrones.

For those wannabe residents of the fictional city, a visit to Dubrovnik will become scenic déjà vu because of the way in which it was so well assimilated into the setting of the series.

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NorthernItaly

Coach tourer extraordinaire Simon Walton, straddles the mountain passes and autostradas and, like a latter-day Hannibal, guides us though a mini tour of Piedmont, Lombardy, and just one Veneto. Give it to me indeed.

shutterstock:Stefano Termanini

Group Travel Today

shutterstcock:Catarina Belova

Roaming in Juliet country Jags or Minis? We prefer the more spacious interior of a modern touring coach, with a driver with less desire to slalom. Your group is likely to be more law-abiding than the Italian Job mob, so as you traverse the fabulously twisty foothill roads featured in the famous film, then, like Michael Caine’scrafty Charlie Croker, you might just have a plan.

Then again, your plan may be more coastal that

mountainous. You’ve tired of Monaco and all the millionaire excesses.

Everyone back on board.

Let’s head for Italy. It is, after all, just ten minutes along the road.

Genoese heritage comes to an end (tasty though) and you opt instead for a harbourside view of the actual Gulf of Genoa, instead of the actual Firth of Forth from the Esplanade.

Friday market in Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia doesn’t want for fresh food options. Straight off the Friday market stalls and on to your plate. Enjoy an al fresco lunch as your survey the ochre-tiled houses and contemplate the mountains behind. Besieged

by Byzantines and Goths, Romans and Ligurians, and

Ventimiglia - a town a bit like Kirkcaldy. It’s on the coast and the population is 55000 and that’s the bit that’s like Kirkcaldy. After that, Rinaldi’s Chip Shop is where Fife’s

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these days by French daytrippers, there’splenty of culture and history to go with the shopping and strolling. If Ventimiglia is a little too small for its popularity, choose your time (early in the day) to enjoy this gateway to northern Italy like a local.

Move up the Roia River.

Head for the bigger prizes to blag in the former principalities that make up this captivating region.

Group Travel Today

shutterstock:Marco Florian

“

Mini adventures in Turin

Put the brakes on and make for Turin. There’s no mystery shrouding the attractions of the city.Everything from Renaissance to a revival of Art Nouveau makes Torino a popular stop. The cradle of Italian liberty has the feel of a capital, as indeed it was for

Po facing Milan What has not been said about Milano?

Football, fashion and fog - or should that be smog.

Yes,Italy’s style capital is also right on-trend when it comes to traffic pollution solutions. So while it’s hip, it’s also hypocrisy to encourage travel into the city - except of course in a touring coach, which gets you in with less environmental impact and takes around 20 cars off the streets.

Heading east, check off Novara, a manageably neat little city. Its many festivals and feast days are topped

by Liberation Day on 25 April.

Possibly more enthusiastically celebrated here than anywhere throughout Italy, given the doggedly partisan resistance expressed by the Novaresi, who never really bought into that whole1940s Pack of Steel thing. If you can resist the placid waters of Lake Como and the speedy excitement of Monza, then the great regional rival of Milan is

The famous footballing rivalry of AC and Internationale probably has put Milan on the map for the twentieth century, but the modern city has audaciously embraced the twenty-first, and high-rise offices vie for status on the city skyline. Perhaps its popularity is in part due to the climate. Milan is high above sea level, so the summers are more

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shuttersock

“

Ventimiglia a town a bit like Kirkcaldy. It’s on the coast and the population is 55000 and that’s the bit that’s like Kirkcaldy.

Afterthat, Rinaldi’s Chip Shop is where Fife’s Genoese heritage comes to an end (tasty though)

certainly your next destination.

several centuries. Today, this home to nearly three million Italians has a capital collection of galleries, palaces, and piazzas.Don’t mention the traffic - it’s also home to famous marques Alfa, Lancia and, of course, Fiat. That famous linen revered as a religious relic by many, scorned as a fake in equal measure - is nonetheless on display at the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist in the city. There’s nothing fake about the building’ssplendour.

manageable, but the sheltered Po Valley keeps the most severe of the mountain weather at bay.You’ll still need a coat in winter though, but Milan being Milan, you can pick up the very latest fashions.Wintery weather can hit - and the Milanese still remember 2001, when the trams ploughed through the snowdrifts to keep the città metropolitane working. If Italian culture is your thing (and why would you be here if it wasn’t) then the temptation is everywhere - even on the autostrada.

Bresica, Garda, Piacenza, Cremona and Verona. All are within easy reach, no more than an hour or so from Milan.

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shutterstock:elitravo elitravo

Group Travel Today Shakespearian Verona

Maybe your coach party want to follow in the footsteps of the ladies and gentlemen of Verona or even fancy each other as latter-day Capulets and Montagues. Visit here and you can be assured of a happier ending than Romeo and Juliet on a star-crossed stay in Shakespearian Verona. With a canon of public works as elegant as the collected volumes of the Bard, you may find yourself waxing lyrical too, as you message back home: “Too early seen unknown, and known too late! lol”. You can also go for a selfie in front of the Piazza dei Signori and tag it “#Wish thouwer’st here”.

Now to Vicenza. If you’ve any familiarity in the works of those fine eighteenthcentury Scottish architects William Adam and his even more illustrious son Robert, it’s time to put the record straight. Neither had an original thought in their head. Andrea Palladio did it all in the sixteenth century, and here’s where he did it.Vicenza. Easily managed and criminally overlooked unless you’re on our mini grand tour, you’ll not regret stopping at the foot of the Monte Berico, where the town straddles the Bacchiglione River. Make the arty pilgrimage to the Teatro, to see the origin of modern performance space, and the fabulous backdrop - a painted city scene that puts perspective intoperspective.

Treviso. The lovely little town with a castle and a rugby team, and all its buildings above sea level, is where the Irish mystery tour operator dumps you if your ticket leads you to believe you are about to be introduced to La Serenissima.

There are, maybe surprisingly, several parking choices around Venice, but you may want to leave the coach in Treviso, and take the train across the causeway to arrive at the vaulted hall of Statione Santa Lucia. You can drive over to the lagoon as well,but you’ll find the coach parking a little further out, and not the cheapest in Europe. Wellies not required, mostly. Venice isn’t actually as flood-prone as Tewkesbury. You should be able to walk the dry flagstones of San Marco square without incident.Do get out on the water though, and enjoy a vaporetto water bus ride over to the neighbouring islands of La Guidecca to meet less tourists and more Venetians, and the Lido for Venice’s lovely beachfront.

La Finale Having crossed from The Mediterranean to Adriatic, and experienced a steal of a time, enjoying the varied cultures of the regions, take a moment to consider, before heading back.A selfpreserving tour of northern Italy for your own society?

It’ll blow more than just your doors off. Check out the official tourism website at Italia.it.

La Serenissima Patrons of that champion of customer service, Ryan Air, who have flown to Venice, will already be familiar with

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shutterstock:elitravo

Northumberland

Group Travel Today

This fabulous county is the least densley populated in England, with plenty of room for you and your group, and castles galore including Bamburgh and Alnwick, home to Harry Potter, indeed room enough for a game of Quidditch! gem! This unique country Estate is an ideal group destination, whether calling for an hour or a whole day.

Centred on the picturesque villages of Ford and Etal and set amid stunning countryside, there are a multitude of things to see and do.

and can be included in a day’s itinerary when visiting Lindisfarne or the historic towns of Kelso and Berwickupon-Tweed.

Attractions include working cornmill; gallery; castle; steam railway; heavy horse and rare breeds centre.

Enjoy refreshments in one of the tearooms or enjoy a locally brewed ale in the only thatched pub in Northumberland.

They can provide bespoke itineraries and talks by knowledgeable guides.

Ford & Etal is within easy reach of the A1 and A697

Bamburgh

development of the first ever lifeboat.

The King of Castles And it truly is! Perched atop a rocky outcrop at the heart of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Bamburgh Castle reigns supreme over the surrounding landscape and seascape. With outstanding views landward to the Cheviot Hills and seaward to the Farne Islands and Lindisfarne it offers a feast for the eyes to behold.

As for Englishness, there’s been something here from the time of the Anglo-Saxons, it was from here that Christianity spread throughout the North of England, it’s because of here that Lindisfarne is now known as the Holy Island. It was the first castle in England to be besieged by canon fire, it was home to the world’s first Coastguard station and the

Finally bought in 1864 for £8000 it was restored as the quintessential English castle by one of England’s greatest inventors and philanthropists, 1st Lord Armstrong.

Now groups can explore the State Rooms, discovering thousands of items in a collection containing furniture, porcelain, works of art, arms and armour. A separate museum tells the story of 1st Lord Armstrong and contains fascinating Aviation artefacts displays.

The café provides a welcome rest stop for all and there’s ample parking for coaches. www.bamburghcastle.com

Ford & Etal Northumberland’s hidden

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Coach parking is free and admission charges for prebooked groups are heavily discounted.

www.ford-and-etal.co.uk

e South West Supplement

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GET ALL STEAMED UP ON YOUR GROUP DAY OUT! Bring your group, society or club for a memorable day out at the Avon Valley Railway WHAT TO SEE ON YOUR VISIT See our beautifully restored Victorian station at Bitton Take a ride in a heritage carriage behind one of our steam or diesel locomotives Enjoy a combined train ride, cream tea and boat trip around Bristol Harbourside on our full day package Learn more about the history of the line in our small museum area Enjoy breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea in our station buffet (open daily) Pick up a railway-themed souvenir in our gift shop (open on our operating days) Why not combine a visit with a trip to the new Aerospace Bristol museum in Filton or SS Great Britain on Bristol’s harbourside for a full day of transport heritage?

ns operate: ai tr l se ie D r o am te S

to September Saturday & Sunday April of each month) ay rd tu Sa st fir e th t ep xc (e PLUS: ay to September Selected Wednesdays M Tuesday to Thursday d an er ob ct O in s ay nd Su d half term holidays during school summer an

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

Group Travel Today

South West

Sand, sea, surfing, St Ives, sophisticated art galleries, buckets and spades, Bodmin, pasties, pies and Padstow, if ever there was a great group getaway surely this must be it.

Avon Valley Railway The Avon Valley Railway is bringing back the sounds and smells of steam to Bristol and Bath. Closed under the Beeching Axe of the 1960’s the line was preserved by an enthusiastic group of volunteers.

Today, 40 years on, three miles of track has been relaid, locomotives and carriages restored, and the sound of steam can once again be heard along the Avon Valley.

They are an ideal location for a half day out and can offer a steam train ride with a delicious cream tea served onboard too. They run trains weekends April to September plus selected Wednesdays May to September and Tues to Thur in school and summer holidays. It was their 150th anniversary in 2019 so why not bring your group and find out more about their history?

Groups can also combine them with a visit to the Aerospace Bristol museum in Filton or SS Great Britain on Bristol’s harbourside for a full day of transport heritage.

They’re easy to find, half-way between Bristol and Bath and just 20 minutes from the M4.

Marwood Hill Gardens This magical and very special 20 acre private garden with three lakes is set in a valley tucked away in North Devon only 4 miles from Barnstaple, the gardens are a wonderful haven in which to relax and enjoy the impressive collections of plants, shrubs and trees and experience the views and peaceful atmosphere. The garden has featured on many garden programmes over the years and is enjoyed by visitors of

all ages looking for inspiration, relaxation or just a great day out.

For full details please visit www.marwoodhillgarden.co.uk Seaton Tramway Seaton Tramway operates narrow gauge heritage trams between Seaton, Colyford and Colyton in East Devon's glorious Axe Valley.

GROUP BOOKINGS Seaton Tramway is a great day out for all age groups, and even more, fun when you're travelling with a likeminded group! They have open toppers and enclosed saloons, giving a comfortable ride. Whatever the weather groups will enjoy a leisurely trip on the Tramway.

There are over 1500 double and twin en-suite bedrooms, and 40 plus contemporary meeting and event spaces, tiered lecture theatres, AV, exhibition areas, meeting rooms, breakout spaces and a large four court Sports Hall and studios for hire.

The Garden Room at Colyton Station is a great place to enjoy the Tramstop Cafe delights, this seperate dining and/or meeting area for groups can seat up to 80 people.

The business and technology conference ‘Agile on the Beach’ returned for their sixth year in July. This 2 day conference took advantage of their modern, high end facilities in their AMATA studios. Over 40 UK and International speakers and 300 business delegates stayed in their university accommodation over four nights.

The average seating capacity is around 35 per tram, but several trams can operate together for large groups. There is no extra charge for this - you simply pay the agreed rate per person.

The team also welcomed the University of Exeter Research and Medical annual 3 day conference with 120 delegates, who relaxed in the evening with a BBQ, bar and social networking opportunities.

The Penryn Campus is situated between the vibrant port of Falmouth and historic town of Penryn and is an ideal base to explore the spectacular county of Cornwall.

For a full list of experiences and events please visit www.tram.co.uk

Cornwall Plus Accommodation is set within a residential village which is nestled amongst tranquil historical gardens, an 18th century manor house and host of onsite campus facilities.

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Your group will benefit from their links with local tourist attractions and activity providers; each guest will receive their Cornwall Plus Saver Card with discounted entry to attractions across the county.

Cornwall Plus can make your meeting, event, or group gathering unique and tailored to you. Do get in touch if you’d like to find out more and you’d like a quote.

Cornwall Plus Team, Penryn Campus, Cornwall, TR10 9AJ Email: booking@fxplus.ac.uk www.cornwall-plus.co.uk Explore together, remember always…

Bringing a group to the Mount? Let us help you make it a day to remember.

Marvel at the terraced gardens clinging to the cliffs, wonder at the priory church at the Mount’s summit which dates back to 1135 or gaze out across rows of cannons to where Napoleonic ships lay at anchor.

Whether you’re fascinated by ley lines, interested in subtropical flora and fauna,

Group Travel Today

shutterstock_Helen Hotson

need to bring the Civil War to life for your students, or have any other specialist interests, they’ll tailor your visit to fit.

They can create itineraries based on your needs and requirements, or can bring in specialist guides who’ll be able to answer your questions – so you can get more from your island experience.

Group discounts and benefits include: Priority coach parking in dedicated bays Preferential admission rates for pre-booked groups of 15 or more (£9.50 per adult for the castle or £15.00 for combined castle and garden entrance) Pre-booked lunches or afternoon teas at the Island Café or The Sail Loft on the island, or on the mainland at the Godolphin Arms Experienced guides available for special guided tours (April-June and September-October, for an additional charge) Depending on requirements, they may be able to offer a specific language tour.

Free admission for coach drivers Reduced price guide books on pre-order Please visit

available at the Coach Hall tea room, with a small playground for little ones nearby. Private group tours for 20 or more can be organised by prior arrangement with excellent catered options.

www.stmichaelsmount.co.uk Fursdon House & Gardens Fursdon is one of Devon’s oldest family homes where the Fursdon family has lived for more than 755 years. In 2019, Oliver and Emily, took over stewardship of the estate as the 24th generation of Fursdons to live here.

They welcome visitors to take part in guided house tours, with portraits, costumes, a small family museum and stories of ghosts and dragons offering a fascinating glimpse into their family’s life over the last seven centuries.

A restored wisteria-clad cottage offering peaceful holiday accommodation is also available on the estate.

The Garden and Tea Room are open 2-5pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays from Easter Monday to the end of September. House tours take place at 2.30pm and 3.30pm on Bank Holidays and Wednesday and Thursday afternoons through June, July and August.

Fursdon House, Cadbury, Exeter, EX5 5JS E: admin@fursdon.co.uk, T: 01392 860 860

Outside, the restored grounds and garden feature both walled and open areas. A mix of naturalistic and contemporary planting offers colour and interest throughout the seasons, set against rolling mid-Devon landscape.

www.fursdon.co.uk Visit Exeter Discover what everyone’s talking about…Visit Exeter There is something just a little bit special about Exeter and it really does have something

Delicious cream teas and homemade cakes are

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for everyone.

Recently voted one of the top ten cities for a city break by the Independent, this beautiful city in the heart of Devon is perfectly positioned, with visitors never far away from all manner of picturesque locations.

Beaches, moors and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are all at your fingertips.

If you’re in to ancient history, they’ve got it covered – 2,000 years of it, in fact!

Fancy yourself as a bit of a culinary connoisseur? In Exeter they have the finest food and drink on offer. Like to treat yourself to a bit of retail therapy? They have a vibrant mix of high-street nationals and local independents. A diverse cultural scene also reflects Exeter’s strong identity as a small city with lots of character. You only need to take a glance at their what’s on calendar to see the sheer variety of events on offer, from food and drink festivals, to large-scale music events and world-class sporting fixtures.

THE PERFECT TRIP FOR 2020

Get your 2020 calendar started off the right way with a Stuart Line cruise!

FREE coach parking & FREE ticket for the driver!

Small Attraction of the Year 2018

Voted Devon's BEST Small Attraction for 2018

Based in Exmouth, Devon 15min off the M5

01395 222144 info@stuartlinecruises.co.uk

www.stuartlinecruises.co.uk

Group Travel Today

shutterstock_Konmac

Exeter is whatever you want it to be – the very best hybrid of city and countryside that you are likely to find.

Discover more at www.visitexeter.com Stuart Line Cruise Stunning scenery, luscious green landscapes and magnificent coastlines; these are what make memorable holidays in Devon and what better way to experience this than from the entirely unique perspective of the water?

Stuart Line Cruise are a family-run business, sailing for over 50 years. They offer the widest range of cruises that Devon has to offer and last year were voted 'Best Small Attraction in Devon'. Their trips sail year-round, consistently offering great value, high quality excursions that you can trust.

Their boats are modern and exceptionally wellmaintained, featuring indoor heated lower decks with large windows for great viewing whatever the weather and outside upper decks with comfortable seating and cosy blankets.

Offering bespoke cruises tailored to your schedule, they can also put together joint packages with other top attractions in Devon, at discounted rates.

For more information visit www.stuartlinecrusies.co.uk , give them a call on 01395 222144 or email

around the UK. Daish’s now also welcome over 550 groups a year, ranging from large families of 20 people to whole hotel groups of 140+ who book the whole hotel. Many of their groups travel time and time again, often more than once a year and Paul Harper, the groups Sales and Marketing Director puts it down to their great customer service experience ‘We’re famed for our award winning customer service and the delivery of our core values of clean comfortable accommodation, live nightly entertainment, good food and great entertainment. This is what Daish’s was founded on 40 years and its just as important now, as it was back then’.

gardens, near Taunton.

Spanning three centuries of garden design, Hestercombe Gardens offer a unique combination and varied experience of the Georgian Landscape Garden (designed 1750s), the Victorian Shrubbery and the Edwardian Formal Gardens (early 1900s).

Groups & Tours Hestercombe welcome groups and tours of any size and can tailor your experience in a number of different ways to suit your requirements.

Gardens Included are 50 acres of

info@stuartlinecruises.co.uk

Daish’s Daish’s was founded in 1979 when the company’s founder and now Chairman, Jeanne Wilson, purchased her first hotel – Daish’s Hotel in Shanklin on the everpopular Isle of Wight. Since then, the company has gone from strength to strength and now boasts ten hotels in some of the most popular UK holiday destinations, along with a fleet of 26 luxury coaches that operate

The groups most recent acquisions include a seafront hotel in Blackpool, just a short walk for the Tower and their new boutique hotel ‘The County Hotel’ located in Kendal, the gateway to the iconic Lake District.

For more details, contact Daish’s Groups holidays on 01202 638841, or visit www.daishs.com Hestercombe Gardens Experience 50 acres of quintessential Somerset

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beautiful gardens from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries to walk through and enjoy; a contemporary art gallery with a series of changing exhibitions; a second-hand book shop, gift shop and plant centre.

You are more than welcome to spend your time here at your leisure, exploring the gardens at your own pace.

However, if you’d prefer more structure to your visit, they can work with you to provide a bespoke experience for your group. www.hestercombe.com/your -visit/groups/

N O W 21 NO 20 LE SA

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

Great value half board breaks including nightly entertainment

A choice of 9 fantastic hotels spread across 8 locations

places for groups over 20 people

Dedicated groups team to support you from booking to arrival

Fleet of 25 luxury coaches to provide comfortable travel

Award winning customer service

Get in touch with us Today!

Call 01202 638 841 or visit daishs.com

Isle of Wight

Blackpool

Bournemouth

facebook.com/daishsholidaysforgroups

Llandudno

Torquay

Newquay

@daishs4groups

Lake District

Weymouth

Group Travel Today

Houses of Historical Interest

The UK’s array of legendary places and exceptional buildings is second to none, there’s no better time to arrange a group visit to one of these vast imposing edifices to exprience the diversity of British heritage. of Canterbury.

Rediscover England’s First Cathedral No visit to Kent is complete without exploring the

Founded by St Augustine in 597AD, Canterbury is England’s First Cathedral. A site of pilgrimage for centuries, the Cathedral welcomes visitors from across the world, introducing them to the array of treasures within, from stunning medieval stained glass to beautiful stonework. The Cathedral’s history spans over 1,400 years, telling thrilling stories that have shaped England – King Henry IV and the Black Prince are entombed here - and 2020 marks the 850th anniversary of St Thomas Becket’s murder in the Cathedral.

wonderful Canterbury Cathedral – UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mother Church of the Anglican Communion, and seat of the Archbishop

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A new Visitor Centre, Viewing Gallery, shop and exhibition spaces are opening this year, and – subject to Government guidance on coronavirus groups will soon be able to book private guided visits, ‘behind the scenes’ tours to learn more about the Cathedral’s world-leading conservation work, and even exclusive private evening events. There has never been a better time to include a visit in your itinerary. canterbury-cathedral.org contact: melodie.robson@canterburycathedral.org

Christmas Feature

Group Travel Today

What a year so far, surely this Christmas season will be the perfect opportunity to get out there and celebrate with all our friends, here we give you a sample of some seasonal delights.

Christmas in Exeter Take your group to Exeter this Christmas for the wonderfully atmospheric Christmas Market on Cathedral Green,browse for unique and artisan gifts from local retailers, and enjoy festive food and mulled wine whilst listening to bands at the foot of the magnificent West Front of Exeter Cathedral.

Other events to look out for are the Exeter Christmas Lights switch-on and Magdalen Road’s Christmas Fair, renowned for its streetfood, live entertainment, music, mulled wine and lots of Christmas jollity!

If you’re dreaming of the perfect Christmas, then be sure to visit Exeter. Exeter has everything to offer groups, including a superb shopping experience, the best choice of restaurants, an excellent range of accommodation, convenient coach parking and drop-off and of course a warm festive welcome.

For a full list of what’s happening in Exeter this Christmas, visit www.visitexeter.com/christmas Arlington Court This impressive Regency house near Barnstaple in North Devon will be transformed for a traditional

Victorian Christmas, with stunning decorations including an 18ft Christmas

wartime Kent this Christmas Chartwell and Biggin Hill Memorial Museum, Mon 7 - Fri 18 Dec This winter visit Chartwell, the family home of Winston Churchill and join a guided tour seeing selected rooms dressed for Christmas across the decades. Explore the 1930s and 40s when duty would have kept Churchill away from the family at Christmas, then continue your discovery at Biggin Hill Memorial Museum and St George’s RAF Chapel of Remembrance. Just 7 miles away, see Britain’s most famous fighter station, explore the personal experiences of those that served there and join a talk exploring Churchill and the defence of the realm. Email chartwell.groupbooking@nationaltrust.org.uk to book. nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell

bbhm.org.uk

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© National Trust 2020. Registered Charity no. 205846.

Photography © National Trust Images/Sarah Haile & ©Bob Ogley collection

Book now for a discovery of

tree bedecked with bows and baubles in reds and golds.

Group Travel Today

new installations too. Framed by glittering spiral trees, dynamic laser projections will illuminate the iconic Temperate House. A dazzling arch leads to a cascade of glowing silvery shards at the Treetop Walkway. Elsewhere, walk amongst immersive Vines as they surprise with colour changing ribbons of light, while beneath the branches of a sprawling tree the mysterious fairy-fire known as Will-o’the Wisp softly glows. Familiar favourites, including the Tunnel of Light and the flickering Fire Garden, will also make a return.

Every room in the house will give you an insight into family Christmas traditions throughout the decades.

130 years. Today they operate modern boats complying with all the latest safety regulations.

pm but in November and December the times can be varied to suit the requirement of the tour operator.

Normal admission prices apply unless stated otherwise, or become a National Trust member and gain free admission and parking at National Trust properties. Group rates are available for parties of 15 or more.

The Motor Boat Thomas Telford operates all year round but in November and December it is available daily for Mulled Wine Special Trips. These 2 hour trips on the centrally heated narrowboat include a full commentary on the history and scenery of the World Heritage Site and include a crossing of the world famous Pontcysyllte aqueduct.

Couriers go free of charge and there is free coach parking in the centre of Llangollen. Full details of the trips can be found on the website.

The boat is decorated for the Christmas season, and homemade Mince Pies are available.Trips usually operate at 12.15pm and 2.30

Kew

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/arli ngton-court or call on 01271 850296.

Llangollen Wharf Welsh Canal Holiday Craft Ltd has been operating trips on the Llangollen Canal for

For more information, call 01978 860702 email bill@horsedrawnboats.co.uk or go to www.horsedrawnboats.co.uk .

The Christmas at Kew trail takes a magical new route and includes a host of all-

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Christmas at Kew wouldn’t be complete without the Palm House Pond finale as jumping jets of light dance across the water to muchloved Christmas classics.

Have a holly, jolly Christmas and complete a walk under the stars with spiced cider, mulled wine or hot chocolate. Gather around the fire-pit with family and friends to toast marshmallows and end the evening browsing Kew’s gift shops.

Why not pick up some treats for the journey home? www.kew.org

THE SHOWS WILL GO ON.

PLEASE SUPPORT BRITISH THEATRE AS SOON AS WE’RE BACK. AMBASSADOR THEATRE GROUP

A Great Day Out AT THE HEART OF THE

NORFOLK BROADS

www.roys.co.uk Stalham Road, WROXHAM NR12 8DB 01603 782131

ROYS W ROX H A M

1,000 FREE Parking spaces Open 7 days a week & late night opening Please see our website for full details of our opening times

Group Getaways

Group Travel Today

It’s time to talk travel, these tour operators offer some of the best holidays around, they take the organisation out of Group Travel. so sit back and take the credit wherever your group choose to go. hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year, no matter when or where you choose to travel, you’ll always have direct access to their UK team, every step of the way. www.rivieragroups.co.uk

CroisiEurope 2021 Cruises now on sale CroisiEurope Cruises, Europe’s largest river cruise company has announced its new 2021 sailings schedule, offering 170 itineraries across 38 countries.

Riviera Travel’s promise to you, every step of the way Riviera Travel believe that exploring the world is one of life’s gifts. As you start to make plans for your next travel adventure, the team are ready and waiting, to turn your dreams into reality.

And if things should change, you can transfer your holiday to a later date and amend your booking as many times as you like right up until 31st December 2020. From the excitement and wonder of seeing the world again, to feeling a sense of calm and wellbeing before and during your holiday, Riviera Travel are with you every step of the way.

The teams have worked hard to ensure the range of hand crafted 2021 holidays are all on sale ready for bookings and transfers, so you can be inspired on where to go next.

With customers at the heart of their choices, they personally select every aspect of your holiday and every detail of your itinerary is thoughtfully planned to

ensure truly authentic travel experiences. Then there’s the talented tour managers, chosen for their experience and wealth of knowledge, who take you under the skin of the destination on the carefully planned visits. You can also ensure the holiday is tailored to you: from private transfers, to your choice of airport, hotel and personalised experiences, you really can make your holiday your own.

date or destination, they guarantee you a refund, in full. What’s more, if you’re not happy or comfortable in your new surroundings by Day Two, they’ll bring you home at no extra charge and offer you a full refund Finally, your happiness and peace of mind is their top priority. No matter how well travelled you are, it’s comforting to know you’re in safe hands. Riviera Travel go to great lengths to ensure the best service from caring and knowledgeable partners transportation, local guides, access to all the most important sights – no detail is overlooked.

Riviera Travel recognise that every moment of your holiday is precious. Rest assured, when you book your holiday, you can do so with a total sense of confidence.

Value for money is guaranteed as their mission is to make discovery affordable and accessible on their ABTA and ATOL protected holidays. And if you find the same holiday for a lower price anywhere else, they’ll refund the difference.

On tours, every hotel is matched against their exacting standards – having personally visited and double checked the cleanliness, comfort and facilities. And on river cruises you’ll find a gleaming fleet of ships – where a dedicated team will ensure each vessel is scrupulously clean with hand sanitisers throughout and in cabins. What’s more, 24

In the unlikely event that they do need to cancel your holiday and you would prefer not to transfer to another

32

CroisiEurope Cruises, now owns and operates 56 ships and hotel barges on some of the most beautiful waterways in the world. On board CroisiEurope’s “floating hotels”, guests can relax in their light and spacious ensuite cabins or socialise in the stylish panoramic lounges and bars while soaking up the laid-back lifestyle.

CroisiEurope’s charming multi-lingual crew ensure that guests’ every need is catered for so all they have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy themselves.

As an independent, familyrun business, CroisiEurope strives to offer a warm and convivial atmosphere onboard and guests show their appreciation by rebooking with the company time and time again. It is not too late for 2020 bookings, recognising the need to offer attractive deals for solos, the company has dropped single supplements on selected 2020 cruises. www.croisieurope rivercruises.com

Look forward to your next adventure With our full 2021 collection now on sale

Generous Group Offers

UR PR ISE Book with complete confi dence

A sense of wonder ● ●

Truly authentic travel experiences The very best hand-crafted holidays

A sense of calm

A sense of well-being

COVID-19 cancellation cover as standard ● Amend your booking for free

●

●

●

Your health and safety is our priority Travel insurance that covers COVID-19 as standard

From the striking Canadian mountains and the picturesque wine regions of France to gliding through the crystalclear Adriatic, relax and recharge as you discover destinations new. Whether you’re a group of history lovers, art enthusiasts or keen foodies, we’re sure to have the holiday for you. What’s more, did you know you can earn generous commission when you travel with a group of 10 or more?

Contact us for further information Ri

For group enquiries visit rivieragroups.co.uk or email groups@rivieratravel.co.uk For individual holidays visit rivieratravel.co.uk or call 01283 742300 and mention Group Travel Today July 2020

Riviera Travel, New Manor, 328 Wetmore Road, Burton on Trent, Staffs, DE14 1SP. ABTA V4744 and ATOL 3430 protected. Some elements are not commissionable, including room/travel upgrades and supplements, insurance premiums and bookings made through a third party (to include travel agents, online booking sites or any dedicated media partner departures) and any bookings where less than 10 people travel. The commission will be paid back to the group leader, for all that travel on any holiday/cruise booked from our programme. A commission invoice will be requested from the group leader in the month following that of the departure, for all that travel, and payment is usually made within 28 days of receipt of invoice.

ve

r Cr

u i s e s M a rc h 2

02

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ABTA No. V4744

Group Travel Today

Sea Carriers

If you want to take your group further afield why not take sail to Europe and beyond, many operators already have fantastic itineries there’s no work for you, and you won’t lose any of your group, well at least whilst there on the ship! your ideal group getaway with DFDS. Fred Olsen Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is excited to announce that, in 2020/21, its fleet of five smaller, more intimately-sized ocean and river ships – Balmoral, Braemar, Boudiccaand Black Watch, plus river cruise addition, Brabant – will bevisiting no fewer than 277 destinations in 90 countries, across six continents,covering 104 areas of scenic cruising, on 170 different itineraries.

Complementing the UK departure ports of Southampton, Dover, Liverpool,Newcastle and Edinburgh (Rosyth), Fred.

Olsen will also be offering an expanded programme of exotic fly-cruises in 2020/21.In its 2020/21 ocean programme, Fred. Olsen will be offering guests more ‘scenic’cruising than ever before. An important part of a well-balanced itinerary,scenic cruising is rated as highly as the ports of call – and sometimes even higher. As well as its signature ‘Norwegian fjords’ experiences, Fred. Olsenwill also be taking guests to discover the untouched beauty of three new areas of scenic cruising, on Balmoral’s 34-night L2026 ‘American Waterwaysin the Fall with New York’ voyage, from Southampton in September 2020: Cape Cod Canal, the Hudson River and the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal. ‘Closer’cruising remains at the fore of the Fred. Olsen experience throughout 2020/21.By making the most of its smaller-sized ships, Fred.

Olsen can sail right into the heart of the destination, where many larger vessels

Set Sail to Europe Group travel to Europe is easy with DFDS. Choose from one of four routes from the UK to France and Holland with over 60 sailings per day.

A dedicated group travel team ensure everything runs smoothly, organising the crossing, cabins and meals.

Plus, groups of 20 or more receive free coach and driver transportation and free meals for the driver.

Something to celebrate?

Their Party at Sea package onboard their Newcastle – Amsterdam route is ideal and 1 in 10 go free.

Their mini cruises are also popular with groups with two fun-filled nights onboard and a day to explore Amsterdam.

There is a range of outstanding restaurants and cafes onboard and packed lunches are also available to pre-book.

Onboard shopping, arcade games and even a cinema are available to keep you busy while you sail.

Their regular sailings mean you can choose a crossing time to suit your group. Plus,

with their group deals, you can pay 25% deposit and the rest 8 weeks before travel.

To book your group crossing with DFDS, contact the groups team on 0871 522 9933 or email uk.groups@dfds.com.

They’ll be happy to help plan

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cannot reach.

Notably,shallow-drafted Braemar will be repeating its best-selling transit of Greece’s Corinth Canal – which spans less than 25 metres at its narrowest,lowest point – on its unforgettable 25-night ‘Corinth Canal & GreekIslands’ itinerary, from Southampton in April 2021.

For group bookings and enquiries, please contact Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ dedicated Group Sales Department on 01473 746169 (Monday to Friday, 9am until 5pm), ore-mail group.sales@fredolsen.co.uk For further information on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, visit the website at www.fredolsencruises.com Brittany Ferries Brittany Ferries offers the most convenient cross Channel ferries to France, with the widest choice of ferry crossings. Depart from Portsmouth, Plymouth or Poole and travel to Cherbourg, St Malo, Caen, Le Havre or Roscoff for a direct Channel crossing to your holiday in France.

Choose your most convenient car ferry to France from the UK from speedy fast-craft crossings and relaxing daytime or overnight cruises, with daily sailings on most routes and a choice of departure times to suit you. www.brittany-ferries.co.uk

European Group Travel Find out more at dfds.co.uk/groups

Newhaven

Newcastle

Dover

Calais Dieppe

dfds.co.uk/groups

Dunkirk

Amsterdam (IJmuiden)

Heart of England

Group Travel Today

This is arguably the most medieval of the UK’s regions, with great castles such as that at Warwick and literary trails around Stratford -Upon- Avon, home of the greatest writer in the English language, William Shakespeare.

Coventry Cathedral Coventry Cathedral was described as a ‘casket of jewels’ by its architect, Sir Basil Spence, and the Cathedral does not fail to live up to this image. Located in the heart of the city centre, with convenient coach dropoff points right outside, getting here could not be easier.

Once here pre-booked groups will enjoy a tour of both the Ruined Cathedral and Spence’s casket of jewels as one of their expert guides takes you through over 1000 years of history.

Tours will include the story of Coventry and how its fate is entwined with that of their cathedrals, the events of November 1940 which led to

the destruction of the Old Cathedral, the vision and building of the New Cathedral, and the arts and architecture located within it.

If your group has a particular area of interest please let them know and their guides will be more than happy to provide extra focus for you.

Dudley Canal Trust

Lichfield Cathedral

Take a boat trip underneath Dudley, or explore the fascinating open canal around Netherton and Tipton!

Pre-booking for groups is essential in order to ensure the very best experience and can be done by visiting.

Groups can also book workshop sessions, refreshments, meeting room hire and more either as standalone items or to complement a boat trip.

Give them a call on 0121 557 6265 to discuss creating the perfect visit for your group or alternatively visit

Lichfield Cathedral, where you can discover over 1300 years of history in the only medieval three-spired Cathedral in the UK! See a medieval wall painting, the famous Herkenrode stained glass, the Lichfield Angel and much more.

They are able to offer a range of tours for groups at the Cathedral, giving you a wide range of opportunities to learn about this medieval building and its history and heritage Chapters, the Cafe in the Close, can cater for your group whether it be a tea/coffee on arrival, buffet lunch in a private function room or following your tour with afternoon tea.

www.coventrycathedral.org.

www.dudleycanaltrust.org.u

www.lichfield-cathedral.org

They offer special group rates for their 45 minute, 2 hour and 6 hour trips as well as some additional routes that are only available to prebooked groups.

For a small extra charge, those feeling energetic can also climb the Cathedral Tower, the third highest in England. And if that works up an appetite you can visit their Rising from the Rubble café for a range of drinks, light bites and meals.

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AT THE HEART OF THE MIDLANDS Tourists and pilgrims come from all over the world to experience this extraordinary building and to share something of the quest for peace and reconciliation, embodied by the dramatic contrast of the Ruins and the New Cathedral.

How fortunate that it’s right on your doorstep.

WWW.COVENTRYCATHEDRAL.ORG.UK Email: visits@coventrycathedral.org.uk Tel: +44 (0)24 7652 1234 1 Hill Top, Coventry CV1 5AB

London & South East

Group Travel Today

The world’s greatest city needs no introduction, however don’t forget to take the time to investigate the awesome delights that are just a stones throw away.

Waddesdon Manor Waddesdon Manor was built for Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild in the 1870s to display his collections and entertain the fashionable world.

With more than 15,000 works of art and objects, the collection ranges widely in date, materials and techniques, and places of production. Waddesdon is especially renowned for the quality and depth of its French 18th-century collections, particularly furniture, porcelain and textiles.

Aviary The aviary is full of rare and endangered exotic birds.

Beautifully restored in 2003, discover the birds it houses and the work they do as a registered zoo.

Landscaped grounds Lined with beautiful blooms, tall trees and elegant sculptures and fountains.

With walks to go on and places to play and admire the view.

30,000 plants, providing stunning colour from spring through autumn.

waddesdon.org.uk

www.kew.org

Kew

HEVER CASTLE

Set in 326 acres of beautiful grounds containing the world’s most diverse collection of living plants, Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site just 30 minutes from central London.

Experience 700 years of history at the romantic double-moated 13th century castle once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII and Mother of Elizabeth I.

Explore tropical rainforests in the Palm House and marvel at the architecture of the newly restored Temperate House. Discover beautiful botanical art in their galleries and step back in time at Kew Palace – the former summer residence of King George III.

Discover magnificent awardwinning gardens set in 125 acres of glorious grounds. No matter what time of year you visit you are guaranteed a breath-taking display.

They have a dedicated member of staff who will assist you with your planning and will guide you every step of the way to ensure that your group visit is a memorable one.

you are planning, large or small they look forward to helping you plan your perfect day out.

BENEFITS • Discounted admission rates

Visit The Hive, a fascinating installation highlighting the plight of the honeybee and The Great Broad Walk borders which contain over

Whatever type of group visit

38

• Free visit for group leader and coach driver • Free parking • Easy drop-off and pick-up for coaches (prior arrangement only) • Free meal voucher for coach driver • Dedicated member of staff to help plan the perfect day • Special group menus • Special group packages www.hevercastle.co.uk

A ROTHSCHILD HOUSE & GARDENS

Once the country home of the Rothschilds, this Renaissancestyle château houses one of the finest collections of French 18th-century decorative arts in the world. The Victorian garden has a parterre, aviary, seasonal displays, walks, fountains and statuary, and with shops and restaurants, Waddesdon makes a memorable day out for everyone.

For opening times and group rates 01296 653209 groups@waddesdon.org.uk . www.waddesdon.org.uk Near Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP18 0JH

Contact us for special group rates

Visit the world-famous botanic garden

kew.org/groups groups@kew.org 020 8332 5648

Group Travel Today

The Lake District

The Lake District is one of the most popular destinations in the country for coach and group excursions. With its breathtaking scenery, crystal clear lakes, soaring mountains and picture post card villages, it’s easy to see why.

Windermere Lake Cruises Windermere Lake Cruises offers visitors the perfect way to spend a day exploring England's largest lake and the surrounding area - right in the heart of the Lake District UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Taking a trip with them means passengers can experience the full length of the lake, from Lakeside at the southern tip, right up to Ambleside at the top - while taking in Bowness and other stops along the way.

With regular services all yearround and more than 100 daily sailings at the height of the summer season, why not

pick up a popular “Freedom of the Lake” ticket, which offers unlimited cruising over a 24 hour period?

Among our fleet are the three famous ‘steamers’; ‘MV Tern’, ‘MV Teal’ –and ‘MV Swan’ Plus, new for this year is the brand new, 300 seat boat, ‘MV Swift’, which will be the first new boat to be launched onto Windermere in more than 80 years.

More information is available at www.windermerelakecruises.co.uk or by calling 015394 43360.

captivate you from the moment you step through our revolving doors, with its nostalgic decor and oldworld charm.

The oak beams, antique furniture and old local wall prints combine to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere - no wonder so many of our guests return year after year. This 300-yearold Grade II-listed hotel is even reputed to have had a famous royal visitor in its time - Bonnie Prince Charlie is said to have spent the night here in 1745.

Gateway to the Lake District.

The George Hotel will

Standing proudly in the centre of the delightful market town of Penrith, the

EXPLORE EDEN & THE LAKE DISTRICT from THE GEORGE HOTEL, Penrith, the heart of Cumbria.

hotel is a fantastic base for exploring the breath-taking Lake District and Eden Valley, with Ullswater only 4 miles away. Enjoy a cruise on a steamer or walk for miles.

All rooms are beautifully furnished, with large comfortable beds and hospitality trays. If you want to push the boat out, why not upgrade to one of our Club Rooms or Feature Suites, complete with bathrobes, mineral water.

You can savour meals beside the fire in our Devonshire restaurant, while our all-day bar serves light lunches and pub classics. www.thegeorgehotelpenrith.co.uk

YOUR PERFECT PITSTOP Located in the heart of the market town of Penrith yet only minutes from the M6, A6 and A66, THE GEORGE HOTEL offers an ideal stop-off, a warm Cumbrian welcome, and overnight stays, including dinner, bed & breakfast. We also hold a host of evening events perfect for entertaining your group.

We can provide a range of dining options: • Hot beverages with biscuits or scones • Light lunches including our popular soup & sandwiches • Buffet lunches with Cumbrian produce • Traditional afternoon teas • Delicious dinners • FREE meal for your driver Simply (min. numbers apply) call to tailor your perfect pitstop with us

Call us for more information on 01768 862696 or email sales@thegeorgehotelpenrith.co.uk

THE GEORGE HOTEL Devonshire St, Penrith, Cumbria CA11 7SU 40

Ireland

Supplement

TITANIC THE LEGEND THE STORY Titanic Belfast features nine interactive galleries that explore the sights, sounds, smells and stories of Titanic.

Uncover the true legend of Titanic in the city where it all began, Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Group benefits: Group rates, dedicated group reservations, fast-track entrance, welcome host, souvenir ticket, free driver and guide entrance, coach driver hospitality.

For help with planning and booking a group visit email groups@titanicbelfast.com or call 028 9076 6373.

TITANICBELFAST.COM

Contents

Inspirational

Ireland for Groups Whether you're stay at home Brits or international adventurers, the island of Ireland offers both. ere’s plenty to choose. From Northern Ireland and the titanically exciting Belfast to Dublin’s Georgian grandeur as the capital of the Republic - the only difficulty is finding enough time to satisfy your appetite for the diversity of Irish culture It’s easy to get around, and the attractions of the north and south are never far apart. In contrast to the bustling cities, and the vibrant smaller towns and communities, Ireland’s fabulous natural heritage offers a wealth of reasons to get out and about, all over the island. e rolling countryside of the east most iconically portraits e Emerald Isle, while the rugged west is all shaped on a grand scale by the Atlantic Ocean.

4

Northern Ireland & e North West

8

Midlands East & e South East

12

e Beautiful West

14

Cork, Kerry & Shannon

Front Cover Pictures

shutterstock_. Patryk Kosmider shutterstock_62590303 StockCube shutterstock_Andrei Nekrassov shutterstock_Ibeth Ibarra n ire Tourism Ireland Page 3 shutterstock_. Patryk Kosmider shutterstock_Tomo Jesenicnik shutterstock_Fotazdymak

Other Pictures Courtesy of Tourism Ireland

Sales: Brett Kirby, Belinda Ashley, Emma Middleton, Tel: 0121 445 6961 Production: Laura Collins Contributors: Julie Callaghan Design: Alexina Whittaker

Managing Director: Nigel Whittaker Publishing Director: Hugh Cairns

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.

37

Ireland

Northern Ireland & e North West

Ulster It’s the most northerly province on the island of Ireland; three counties lie in the Republic, and the other six constitute Northern Ireland. In the westerly county of Donegal, it’s the Tricolour that’s animated by the Atlantic elements on the striking coastline. Cavan and Monaghan are as close to the provincial capital, Belfast, as they are to Dublin.

Derry/Londonderry sits astride the River Foyle, looking west to the hills of its republican neighbour. A walk along the Derry Walls gives a great insight into the intriguing and intertwining Irish past. Protestant Apprentice Boys, who sought allegiance with the Dutch King William of Orange, from a country where Spanish Catholics pledged papal allegiance to Rome, who held sway over the King of England, who himself happened to be a Stuart Scot who was campaigning in Ulster at the time, and had the gates slammed in his face as he approached those very Derry Walls, and had his comeuppance at the Battle of the Boyne, which is near modern Drogheda and is currently in another

country, even though it’s the same island and was once considered part of England. ere: and some say, Irish politics is complicated.

Titanic Belfast in Northern Ireland, a world leading tourist attraction located on the exact spot where the RMS Titanic was designed, built and launched, has outlined plans to re-invest £3 million into a Gallery Refreshment Programme.

Sweep around the Antrim coast, for visits to Bushmills Distillery, the Giants Causeway, and Carrick-aRede rope bridge. is is Game of rones country, and keen fans will recognise the village of Ballintoy, though walks of shame are not mandatory. Stare out at Rathlin Island and Scotland from Ballycastle and Cushendall, or stop at the still waters of Lough Neagh before heading for Belfast.

e iconic six-floor building features nine interpretive and interactive galleries that explore the sights, sounds, smells and stories of Titanic. Tour groups can currently walk the decks, travel to the depths of the ocean and uncover the legend of the world's most famous ship. is further investment into the experience aims to ensure it will continue to attract tour groups from countries all over the world.

Speaking about the company’s biggest single investment and most ambitious project since opening in 2012, Judith Owens, Titanic Belfast’s Chief Executive said, “At Titanic Belfast, we do not rest on our laurels and we are determined to build on our success, push boundaries and stay at the forefront of the industry. rough our Gallery Refreshment Programme, we aim to deliver a worldclass spectacle that will continue to drive visitors to Belfast and Northern Ireland and will boost the interpretive and interactive galleries in an innovative way for future generations.”

Belfast Enjoy Irish Gaelic hospitality on a walking tour of Belfast’s historic pubs - a stroll through the ship-building, George Best fathering, Waterfront Hall conferencing, Queens University learning, Irish cloth weaving, and sumptuous shopping at the modern Victoria Square (victoriasquare.com).

With bespoke packages for operators including competitive trade rates, flexibility in amending numbers, dedicated account manager, complimentary coach parking and refreshments and benefits for groups including a dedicated welcome host, fast tracked entrance, souvenir tickets and hospitality options, it is and will continue to be a must see for tour groups to Ireland.

Make for the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum (nmni.com/um). It’s widely recognised as one of the finest collections of vernacular architecture and

For more information, visit www.titanicbelfast.com.

38

Ireland

historic transport in the world. For the less urban side of the province, the interior of North Down is gied with a selection of country parks and beautiful rural scenes. Midway between Bangor and Newtonards, lies the Somme Museum, commemorating the Ulstermen cut down on that terrible battle day in 1916. Mount Stewart House and Gardens are the jewel of the Ards Peninsula (nationaltrust.org.uk/mount -stewart). ere’s no overlooking Belfast's biggest attractions: the towering twins of Samson and Goliath, the yellow ship graving cranes that dominate the city skyline. Yet, there’s another attraction, inexorably linked with Titanic, that’s just a little less overwhelming in size, and it had a much more long-lived career.

SS Nomadic was Titanic’s little sister and built to be her tender, bringing supplies, staff and passengers from ports unable to draught the might liner. Nomadic did anything but her name, spending her working life out of Cherbourg until the 1960s.

However, her story is no less interesting. She saw active service in both World Wars and ferrying many famous passengers to their cruise ships, including Charlie Chaplin and Richard Burton - one very much louder than the other. Bring Nomadic’s silence to life at nomadicbelfast.com.

ere’s a combination ticket for SS Nomadic and Titanic Belfast available. e nautical theme continues with 20thcentury warship HMS Caroline, the last survivor of the Battle of Jutland, and also in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter (nmrn.org.uk).

say Belfast is the most haunted place in Britain.

Spooky.

Touring Belfast’s pubs is an industry in itself. If you’ve time for just one, make for the beautifully ornate National Trust-owned Crown Liquor Saloon on Great Victoria Street, which dates back to 1826.

Hillsborough Castle Head just a short trip out of town to enjoy the windy waters of Belfast Lough and turrets of Carrickfergus Castle. en there’s the green rugged peaks of Cavehill Country Park, or the more manicured surroundings of Belfast Castle - an excellent viewpoint over the city, before heading into the Antrim countryside to meet the animals at internationally famed Belfast Zoo (belfastzoo.co.uk).

e late Georgian mansion, just south of Belfast, was built in the 1770s by Wills Hill, first Marquis of Downshire and was later remodelled in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it is a working royal palace functioning as the official residence of the Royal Family when in Northern Ireland, and has been the home of the Secretary of State since the 1970s. A group tour of the house will guide you through the elegant State Rooms, still in use today, including the majestic rone Room and graceful Drawing Room.

Downpatrick e later seat of the High Kings of Ulster, burial site of the patron saint and medieval capital of County Down, Downpatrick is an essential stop for those interested in saints, scholars and Irish Christian heritage.

Taxi!

You’ll need to rustle up a fleet of them for larger groups, but try a Belfast Black Cab Tour for the best insiders’ guide. Get on the case early to get enough cabs rounded up.

Spend some time at the St Patrick Centre a major multimedia exhibition and learn about Patrick’s life.

Visit the ancient Down Cathedral beside St Patrick’s Grave and then walk down the historic Georgian Mall to English

Try Crumlin Road Gaol for a stretch (crumlinroadgaol.com). is was still active until the turn of the century, so there’s plenty of living history here.

For unliving history, they 40

Did you know?

Ulster is well-known for producing the sweet “ Yellow Man, ” it is a particularly delicious confection that is a renowned speciality similar to Honeycomb toffee, don’t eat too many the dentist wouldn’t like it!

Street and Down County Museum which displays artefacts from Patrick’s time to the present day.

Free to visit, except for a charge for some special exhibitions.

Ireland

Midlands East & e South East

Leinster One of Ireland’s most historically significant sites is at Newgrange, County Meath, just 30 miles north of Dublin, and also easily accessible from Belfast.

Putting Stonehenge and Callanish in their place, Newgrange is a Stone Age Neolithic monument and the jewel in the crown of Ireland's Ancient East (newgrange.com).

Constructed around 3,200 BC, it’s even older than the Great Pyramids of Giza.

Newgrange is a vast circular mound 85 meters with a stone passageway and chambers inside. On the winter solstice at dawn, the rising sun illuminates the chamber briefly aer which it falls back into darkness.

Don’t worry, you do not have to visit the chamber on the solstice to witness this the event, (in fact you have to enter a lottery to be able to be present on the day itself ) as the guides recreate the effect using lights installed in the chamber. e whole complex is situated around a wide bend in the River Boyne, the watercourse that flows through both the land and the history of Ireland.

Nearby, but unconnected with the ancient burial mound, there’s Newbridge: a silverware manufacturer and retailer, whose wares adorn the necks, wrists and pierced bits of the rich and famous (newbridgesilverware.com). e upstairs exhibition hall features manikins and memorabilia from the glamour of Hollywood, all adorned in Newbridge authentic jewels. Called the Museum of Style Icons, or MOSI, it’s one of the most popular parts of the Newbridge operation.

You’ll probably find your freshly blinged crew in the award-winning Carleton restaurant for some delicious food.

railway expresses that run between Dublin and Belfast, or cross on the sleek new road bridge, that offers a strategic view of the famous Battle of the Boyne (battleoheboyne.ie).

For the town of Drogheda itself (drogheda.ie), enter via the former barracks building gate, and down Millmount, detouring past the acclaimed Highlanes Gallery (highlanes.ie), and over the old, much lower Shop Street bridge through the town. Be directed then to the luxurious D Hotel, where balconied rooms offer equally impressive views of the Viaduct (thedhotel.com). e Scotch Hall Shopping is the hotel’s next-door neighbour (scotchhall.ie)

Suitably bejewelled, you can head for Beaulieu, Trim, Loughcrew and Slaine; all of which are all famous castles and houses easily reached from Newbridge and Drogheda.

County Louth Drogheda on the Boyne is blessed with icons of Ireland’s past, present or future. Whether you cross the above the old port on the Victorian viaduct, as a passenger on the Enterprise

Dublin With Phoenix Park, Temple Bar, the Castle, the Spire and Christ Church Cathedral there’s so much 42

Did you know?

County Louth -Legend has it that, yep, that's right. e surrounding woods are rumoured to be filled with leprechauns. to see in Dublin it may leave your head in a spin.

Although the most likely head-spinning sensation is to be at the Gravity Bar in the Guinness Storehouse (guinness-storehouse.com).

Walkable from the centre, it’s one of Dublin’s most iconic attractions, where visitors can sample the historic black stout and learn about the traditional brewing process. Enjoy a sample while enjoying fantastic panoramas above Dublin’s rooops.

Whether it be a walk down broad O’Connell Street or shopping in Graon Street stores or Moore Street markets, there are plenty of things to see. e annual Royal Dublin Show is a scrum, but so is a Six Nations international at the Aviva Stadium or a Pro14 fixture at the RDS Arena in the southern suburb of

Ireland

Ballsbridge. ere’s the National Gallery of Ireland on Merrion Square which, like all the city centre attractions, can be reached by the tram service or a pleasant stroll.

A little further south, renowned for its scenery, Wicklow is a beautiful mix of golden sandy beaches, rolling mountains, wooded glens, cascading waterfalls and lakes, and some outstanding gardens. e latter are always popular with group visits – and could easily be the focus of a whole tour itinerary.

Among the most visited are the magnificent houses and gardens at Powerscourt; Kilruddery, Russborough, Avondale and Mount Usher Gardens. Otherwise, hidden around every corner are rich and interesting attractions. Take a peek at the sixth century monastic centre of Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains National Park.

Perhaps you’ll have time to linger at Russborough. originally built for an English family, the palladian mansion is surely impressive. At an astonishing 210m long, it is by far the biggest frontage of any house in Ireland.

Designed and built between 1741 and 1755, the house boasts ornate plasterwork to complement the artworks and lavish furnishings. ere’s much more to take your time, with fabulous grounds and plenty of activities. e house claims to be a place where history and culture live on (russborough.ie).

the high seas: there are crossings from the Welsh ports of Holyhead and Pembroke, to Dublin and Rosslare respectively. e Kennedy Homestead, also in New Ross, commemorates the family of the American president, John F Kennedy, with whom so many Irish identify and think of as their own. Indeed, the great tragedy of famine ultimately led to the international diaspora that spread Irish culture around the globe, and gave to America its most charismatic president (kennedyhomestead.ie).

Did you know?

Dublin - No mummies here but plenty of “Bog Men” fantastically preserved murder victims om years ago, perhaps CSI could investigate?

e Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience in New Ross, County Wexford can be reached on a day trip from Dublin (dunbrody.com). It lies midway between the two attractive destinations of Enniscorthy to the north, and beautiful Waterford to the south. It’s also a tour for those seeking the thrill of shutterstock_Martin Good

44

shutterstock_228056212

Did you know?

Co Waterford is located in the province of Munster in the southeast region of Ireland. e ancient Celtic name for Waterford was “Cuan na Graí” or “e Harbor of the Sun.” e Irish name for Waterford is Port Lairge which means “leg shaped river.”

Waterford is the oldest city in Ireland. e walled city was founded by Vikings in 914 A.D. During the Norman Invasion of Ireland, King Henry II of England came to Waterford, in 1171, and declared it one of two royal cities in Ireland, the other being Dublin.

Waterford man omas Francis Meagher created the Irish Tricolour.

Waterford’s Reginald’s Tower, built in 1003 as part of the city wall, is the oldest and most historic urban medieval monument in Ireland. e origins of crystal production in Waterford date back to the 18th century. e glass has become known as the finest in the world.

Ireland

e beautiful West

shutterstock_Captblack76

Connaught In the mouth of Galway Bay, and easily visible from the mainland’s iconic Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Islands are very much a world apart. In the category of ‘trip of a lifetime’, the Aran Islands also afford a welcome like long lost family.

Make that journey over the water (and you can tick off the open Atlantic if you do) and the music from Tí Joe Watty’s will greet you even before you step off the ferry.

It’s always mixed with good food, good drink, and great craic. Kilronan Village, which is blessed with the presence of TJ’s is a popular spot for visitors and locals alike. Even when the sun isn’t shining on the gardens, there’s the promise of a warm open fire to go with your Guinness or Irish Coffee. However, don’t rush your traditional dinner of locally caught lobster, crab, and mussels. Don’t worry the verdant Aran islands provide plenty for the vegetarian palette too (joewattys.ie).

Festival time brings out Galway’s 80000 inhabitants for a summer of arts, cras, eats and drinks. e rainbow of waterfront buildings add to the warmth of the welcome, great food from

the sea, and delight in the Irish passion for horse racing - of which there’s plenty in Galway.

more music and activity to lively days and nights. ere are various activities during the day, including street fairs and a popular Heritage Day. Settled for the past 5000 years, the inhabitants have been making merry ever since. Check out everything from the Clew Bay Archeological Trail to the festivals planned for the summer at westporttourism.com.

700-year old St. Nicholas Collegiate Church is Galway’s most important monument and the country’s largest mediaeval parish church. Local lore suggests that Christopher Columbus prayed here before sailing for the Americas in 1492. ere’s an impressive art collection too, and everything including the intricate mosaics on the church’s stations of the cross was designed by Irish artists (galwaycathedral.org).

Drive through the spectacular Connemara scenery, for an enchanting 40 minutes from Westport, to arrive at Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden (kylemoreabbey.com). ere’s a special welcome for group organisers, but, no matter

e nearby festival town of Westport, in neighbouring County Mayo brings yet 46

what the purpose of your visit, or the size of your party, experience the estate in all its glory for as long as your mood takes. Built as a baronial castle in 1867, Kylemore Abbey and the surrounding mountains and lakes are steeped in history.

In equal measure, there’s tragedy, romance, royal visits and engineering innovation on the site, perched between the waters of the lake and the rocky hills behind.

Kylemore became an abbey and home to a community of Benedictine Nuns in 1920, and has become an Irish icon of spirituality and education.

For your group’s secular needs, there’s satisfying catering on-site and ample parking. You’ll find more on

this and the surrounding area at connemara.net.

Wing It High Flying Birds in Sligo don’t come any closer than they do at Eagles Flying in Ballymote. Going by its proper name, the Irish Raptor Research Centre is now a major tourist attraction for the northern part of Ireland. Bring your group to see the spectacular bird shows with eagles, hawks, falcons, vultures and owls. Anything else … gets eaten. Well, not everything there is an extensive petting zoo on site. Educational, informative and entertaining, Eagles Flying does all three and, just like the RTE, the state broadcaster, there are two shows, repeated every day

own scones for your arrival (downhillhotel.ie).

(eaglesflying.com). Eagles Flying even has a meal deal with local hotels so, unlike the main attractions, you don’t have to sing for your supper (well, lunch actually).

It’s a beautiful world e wonder of west Ireland, Connaught’s Connemara scenery, Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden, and compact but not humble Galway City, where summer is a byword for festivals. If time is short, then St. Nicholas Collegiate Church is Galway’s most important monument and don’t miss the huge octagonal dome of Galway’s Catholic Cathedral with its coffered Italianate ceiling and stained glass windows were designed by Irish artists (www.galwaycathedral.org).

Stop to shop - if you can - at Brown omas, an idiosyncratic Irish family department store

A mention too for the family welcome at Downhill House Hotel & Eagles Leisure Club, in Ballina, a comfortable drive north from Galway.

Catering for everything from family reunions (family is a very important aspect of Irish life) to golfing holidays, the hotel is at the heart of a ra of attractions, ranging from picnic cruising on the River Moy to the traditional Foxford Woollen Mills, and the nearby Knock Shrine of religious pilgrimage. If that’s not temptation enough, the owners promise to bake their

DISCOVER Wexford, IRELAND Ireland’s Ancient East www.visitwexford.ie

(brownthomas.com).

No matter what brings you and your group to Ireland, be it for the first time or a return visit, you’ll find something unexpected to bring delight. With the Irish tourism industry keen to develop even closer links with the UK market, that famed Irish welcome will be more polished than ever.

Explore the very best that Ireland’s Ancient East has to offer with a visit to Wexford.

Discover Wexford’s vast Norman Heritage, its hidden histories & spectacular coastline, not forgetting a visit to John F. Kennedy’s homestead; Ireland’s oldest lighthouse or Ireland’s most famous famine ship, all within one hour’s drive from Dublin.

This is a vibrant county, filled with dramatic landscapes - so this year… let Wexford capture your heart!

47

Ireland

Cork, Kerry & Shannon

shutterstock_. Patryk Kosmider

Did you know?

Cork - Take a bigger pair of pants in your suitcase, Cork is known as the culinary capital of Ireland, a city where you're actively encouraged to gorge.

Munster Waterford is probably the best-known county in the south and has plenty to recommend it. A guided walking tour is an ideal way to find out the history of the oldest city in Ireland.

Top of your list must be the Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre, home of the famous crystal. Although some production is now undertaken elsewhere, the factory, design and visitor centres are all still very much in the traditional home of the world-famous glassware (waterfordvisitorcentre.com).

Elsewhere in Waterford, there are the Museum of Treasures, the Kite Design Centre, and the Bishops

has the world’s only full-size B314 replica flying boat (flyingboatmuseum.com).

Palace. Try a trip on the Waterford & Suir Valley Railway (wsvrailway.ie), a historic way to take in the panoramic views of the river, rolling farmland and mountains. Don’t leave out Congreve Gardens, reputedly the best in Ireland.

Cork has a fully-fledged reputation as Ireland’s festival city. ere’s certainly a party atmosphere, and, as an out of season adventure, October is particularly good. ere’s both a film festival and a jazz festival, and the nearby Kinsale Food Festival fills the first weekend of the month.

Head to the West Clare Railway which re-opened in 2010 (westclarerailway.ie).

Take a short ride behind an original steam locomotive.

Aerwards, take the ferry across the Shannon Estuary to Listowel to experience the unusual recreation of the Lartigue Monorail train which first opened in 1888 (lartiguemonorail.com).”

Out in Cork Bay, connected by rail and road, the large town of Cobh is as important to Irish history as any. It was the departure point for two and a half million of the six million Irish people who emigrated to North America in the hundred years until 1950.

For an unusual transport mode, the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum 48

e town has been called Queenstown, during the reign of Victoria and, it was under that name, that Cobh became the last port of call for the RMS Titanic, as she set out across the Atlantic on her ill-fated maiden voyage.

Stroll briefly over to Limerick in September.

Ireland's oldest city hosts the country's premier food event, the Waterford Harvest Festival. Enjoy tastings, markets, cookery, artisan workshops, food tours and cra villages, among the entertainment.

Waterford is known for its wonderful cheeses and unique 'Blaa' bread. e festival is set against the backdrop of a city steeped in 1100 years of history, which is about how long it’ll be before you have to eat again (waterfordharvestfestival.ie).

Ireland

More than Silver Service – Ireland’s Blue Book’s Quick Guide to Casual Dining Ireland’s Blue Book is a beautiful collection of Irish country house hotels, castles, manor houses and restaurants around Ireland.

Whether you’re looking to refuel aer a hike, catch up with iends over coffee and cake, or simply looking for a relaxed alternative to a finedining evening meal, these 3 Blue Book hotels are serving up 5-star flavours in laid back luxury.

that makes eating a plate of steaming, flaky fish and chips more enjoyable is eating it out in the salttanged air on a bright sunny day.

A perfect place to celebrate seafood offering everything from fresh rock oysters, mussels, buttery crab claws and Dublin Bay Prawns.

Pizza and Beer with Bells on at e Taproom at Rathmullan House Rathmullan, Co. Donegal

A Celebration of Seafood at the East Cafe Bar at the King Sitric – Howth, Co. Dublin e King Sitric, a celebrated fine-dining restaurant in Howth, overlooks the ocean and Howth’s East Pier. e East Café Bar is perfect for hungry walkers or those looking for a more casual dining experience. ere are tables outside for when the weather is fine, and we all know that the only thing

Rathmullan House is a small, family-run hotel on Donegal’s coast, that appears to do it all and do it well. With just 36 rooms, the hotel has an awardwinning fine dining restaurant, and its newest offering – e Tap Room. e Tap Room is the clever conglomeration of three Donegal Businesses – the Kinnegar Brewery,

Scarpello & Co., and Rathmullan House. e restaurant serves up stonebaked pizzas alongside local Kinnegar cra beers in a dimly lit, atmospheric cellar space. e pizzas are served in a classic Italian style, using the best ingredients and home-made dough and served with individual pizza wheels for cutting. A true taste of the Mediterranean in a quaint, country house hotel in Donegal.

Coffee in the Coach house at e Jack Fenn Café at Belleek Castle – Belleek, Co. Mayo Belleek Castle, an 18th century castle located alongside the River Moy, has been raking in the awards for its food offering over the last few years. e Library Restaurant serves up extravagant dishes in candlelit splendour and in 2017 Belleek Castle added a more casual lunch-spot – e Jack Fenn café.

Housed in the former 1820’s stables and coach house, the Jack Fenn café’s is brimming with personality, its warm interior is a combination of bare-brick vintage and modern hipster-chic. e menu features everything from brunch50

favourite Eggs Benedict, to the innovative mushroom and tarragon pancakes, to a variety of hearty soups and stacked sandwiches. e Jack Fenn café also serves up a delicious array of decadent cakes, tarts, and homemade scones, with freshly baked daily specials.

Visit www.irelandsbluebook.com for more information.

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C: +353 (0) 51 317000 E: houseofwaterfordcrystal@fiskars.com W: www.waterfordvisitorcentre.com