Final brochure 2016

Coach Tours 2016

DOOR TO DOOR

Membership No: 10228

www.ellensmith.co.uk

INTRODUCTION & CONTENTS Hello Everyone!

Financial Security

Welcome to Ellen Smith Tours 2016 ‘Door to Door’ Brochure

For Your Holiday Protection – Your Money is Safe with BCH

which we hope you will enjoy browsing through. Once again we offer a wide and varied choice of holidays & short breaks throughout the British Isles together with some lovely Irish and Continental tours. We also include our increasingly-popular Jersey & Guernsey By Air tours as well as seven Fred Olsen Cruises which depart from the port of Liverpool for you to enjoy.

Inside the brochure you will find many tried and tested favourites as well as new tours & new itineraries.

We have, for 2016, increased our ‘Door to Door’ pick-up area to include Warrington – so if you have any relatives or friends in that area please let them know and ask them to give us a call on 01706 648126 for a copy of our brochure.

There’s lots to choose from inside and we hope you will enjoy browsing at your leisure.

Finally on behalf of everyone at Ellen Smith Tours may I thank all of our clients for their loyal support over the years and here’s to making 2016 another successful year!

INTRODUCTION

Happy Touring!

Paul Targett, Managing Director Ellen Smith Tours – Price Promise ~ giving you peace of mind when booking an Ellen Smith Tours Coach Holiday.

4th September 2015: Ellen Smith (Tours) Ltd are members of the Bonded Coach Holiday Group of the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK Ltd. This is a government approved consumer protection scheme. This ensures that in relation to the coach package holidays described in this brochure that the clients’ monies are protected by a Bond which may be called upon in the unlikely event of the Member’s Insolvency.

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

Your attention is also drawn to the Bonded Coach Holiday Group Trading Charter that will apply to these coach package holidays.

Membership No: 10228

Important Note: All of the Fred. Olsen Cruises together with The Guernsey by Air and Jersey by Air tours featured in this brochure are NOT protected under BCHG. For these tours please refer to pages: 7, 58, 59 & 60 respectively for more information.

Contents Introduction, Contents & Coach Seat Plan

Page 2

Financial Security & What your Holiday Price Includes

Page 2

Map of Door to Door pick-up Area & CiTO

Page 3

Fred. Olsen Cruises

Page 5

Mystery Tours

Page 8

England

Page 9

Mature Singles

Page 40

Ireland

Page 43

Scotland

Page 48

The price advertised in the brochure is the total amount you • will Wales Page 55 pay for your holiday.

Channel Islands By Air Page 58 • We will not impose any surcharge for fuel price increases.

Continental Holidays By Coach Page 61 the case of currency fluctuations we will absorb any • Inadditional Tours Diary Page 67 costs.

Trading Charter & Travel Insurance Centre Pages We will not advertise or issue any general ‘Money Off’ • vouchers.

Coach Seating Plan Any supplement imposed by the hotel for extra single rooms • will be the exact amount we charge our passengers.

Please Note: There will be NO CHARGE for the use of a DEBIT card.

• However Seats A, B, C & D will there will be a charge of 2% for the use of CREDIT cards to cover our charges.

1

What your Holiday Price Includes:

•Accommodation with private facilities, as standard •Other facilities as stated on your chosen tour Breakfasts & Evening Meals at the hotel – except where •stated otherwise •Door to Door Service •Excursions as specified •The services of our Driver/Courier •VAT 2

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B

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29

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N O S M O K I N G

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only be available when the 52 seater coach is operational.

‘DOOR TO DOOR’

BL0 Ramsbottom

BURY

BL2 BOLTON BL3 BL5 Westhoughton Atherton M46

M44

WA2

Partington

M6

WA13 Lymm

M25

M32 M33 SALE

OL9

M9 M8

M40

M35

M11

M50 M17

M31

WA1 Warrington

M24 Middleton

Pendlebury M27 M7 M6

M41 Urmston

OL16

M43

M18

STRETFORD M21

M20

OL2 Shaw OL3

OL1

OL4 OLDHAM OL8 OL6

SK15 ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE

OL7

M34

OL5 Mossley

DOOR TO DOOR

Culcheth

OL11

BIRCH SERVICES

M60

M30

M62

ROCHDALE

M45

M28

Golborne

WA5

BL4

OL15

Heywood OL10

M26

M38 Walkden Tyldesley M29

WA3

OL12

BL9

BL1

Todmorden

M66

BL8 BL6 Horwich

OL14

OL13 Bacup

BB4

Haslingden

SK16

M19

M67

SK14

SK4 SK5 STOCKPORT SK1 SK6 1-3 M60 SK3 SK2

STOCKPORT BUS STATION

M23 M22 ALTRINCHAM SK8 WA15 WYTHENSHAWE

WA14

POPLAR/LYMM SERVICES

M56

SK7

WA4

WA16

CiTO Quality Service We are proud to have achieved the strict membership criteria required for membership of CITO, The Consortium of Independent Tour Operators, a select, nationwide organisation committed to the continual improvement of quality coach holidays.

CITO Quality Award A proportion of our holidays have met the criteria for the CITO Quality Award. Tours which carry the CITO Logo are of a high standard and include, at no extra cost, features not always found on coach holidays such as, entrance to featured places of interest, door to door service, all excursions, a high specification, air-conditioned coach and on over 2 night stays a minimum of 3 star destination hotels with a choice on the dinner menu, a full cooked breakfast in the UK and a buffet breakfast in Europe, porterage and much more.

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

3

CUSTOMER INFORMATION Single Travellers We welcome single travellers and actively encourage you to travel with us. Unfortunately where hotels charge a single supplement we have no alternative but to pass this on to you. We do however, incorporate a range of ‘Mature Singles’ holidays starting from page 40 of this brochure, where all of the bedrooms are for sole occupancy at no extra cost.

Photographic Identification It is advisable to carry some form of photographic identification (i.e. driving licence or bus pass with photo on) when travelling, in case of emergencies but also we find that more & more it is now becoming a general requirement, especially where ferries are involved.

Travel Documents Approximately 7 – 10 days prior to departure you will receive a copy of your Tour Itinerary together with your Luggage Label and Pick-up Time.

Hotels The hotels are carefully chosen to ensure you receive the best attention at all times. The hotels featured in the brochure are normally 3 or 4 star or good quality family run 2 star hotels.

Luggage On our Tours - EACH customer should use one MEDIUM sized suitcase each weighing no more than 18 kgs (40lbs).

Private Facilities All rooms featured in this brochure have ensuite facilities.

GB

Hotel Special Requests At the time of making your reservation you may ask the staff member to include a note on your booking of any requests you may have. These will be noted to the hotel and although normally acceded to they cannot be guaranteed.

Meals Except where specifically noted all holidays include a minimum of a 3 course evening meal and a full English breakfast. If you require a Special Diet you must inform a staff member when making your reservation.

Attractions Every attraction incorporated in each of the ‘Tour Highlights’ within this brochure is included in the price – there are no hidden extras.

I N F O R M AT I O N

Coach Seats Requests for particular seats can be made on all holidays when booking, but since allocations are made on a first come first served basis early booking is advisable. (Please also refer to the Moving Seats section on this page).

Seat Belts It is the duty of the driver to inform you that the wearing of Seatbelts is now a mandatory requirement whilst a vehicle is in Motion. Therefore please ensure you belt-up every journey!

PASS

PORT

Luggage on Continental Tours On a continental tour with overnight stops you should also include a small overnight bag with your overnight requirements. Your main suitcase will not be accessible until we reach the main hotel.

Medication Please ensure that any medication you are required to take is kept in your Hand Luggage and NOT in your main suitcase.

Customer Care We pride ourselves on the level of care we give to our customers. From the initial booking enquiry, through the tour itself, and right back to your home you can be assured of our best attention at all times.

Next of Kin We would appreciate it if you would advise us of your Next of Kin contact details. As part of our customer care policy we want to advise a relative or friend of our customer’s situation should it be deemed necessary. This will only be done by a senior member of staff.

No Smoking Policy Ellen Smith Tours operate a No Smoking Policy and smoking is not permitted on any of our coaches.

This includes e-cigarettes.

Electronic Devices The use of electronic devices is permitted on our coaches however for the comfort of other passengers they must be in silent mode.

Passports and Identity Requirements Passports are required for all foreign departures. British citizens do not require a Passport for Ireland or the Channel Islands, however, some form of photographic identification (i.e. Passport or Drivers Licence) will be required.

Moving Seats!

Allocation of Seats: When a customer books a tour with us a seat of their choice is allocated.

That seat remains theirs for the duration of the tour.

The company reserves the right, for operational purposes, to move customers onto other seats.

This will mainly occur when we have single customers on individual seats thereby not allowing a couple to sit together.

These changes will only be made when the tour is almost full and those affected will be the most recent bookings.

The customer will be advised of the move before the tour commences.

4

www.ellensmith.co.uk

lude the “All Inclusive Drinks Our Fred Olsen cruises inc ristmas Canaries Cruise).

Package” (apart from the Ch of these cruises through us * It’s cheaper to book one ces and what’s more – our pri than direct with Fred Olsen, ! too e servic include our “Door to Door”

ses ‘All Aboard’ … with Fred. Olsen Crui THE SHIP ~ BOUDICCA A truly world class cruise ship with a light & airy design, Boudicca’s scale creates a sense of warmth and welcome from the moment you embark. Her large windows bring light to the subtle and elegant décor of the unconfined lounges, restaurants & public areas. Cabins on Boudicca are generously roomy for her scale of ship, and the suites sumptuous and unrestrained. She has just 462 cabins and carries a maximum of around 880 passengers. A generous teak promenade deck stretches around Boudicca and with considerable deck space, it contributes towards the feeling of space and freedom. The essence of cruising is learning the art of relaxation, and time is in generous supply as you take life at your own pace.

Enjoy an early morning swim, a mid-morning coffee, attend informative port lectures, or settle down in a quiet corner with a good book. Boudicca offers her passengers an impressive range of dining choices on-board – from formal to the more relaxed, with a variety of foods, designed to suit everyone’s palate! In the evening, relax and be entertained in the lounge where a shimmering stage backdrop highlights spectacular cabarets. Port lectures, classical music and dancing take place on most days, so there is something to suit everyone. The ship also has a lift so it’s easy to get from deck to deck.

FANTASTIC VALUE CRUISING WITH FRED. OLSEN CRUISE LINES INCLUDES:

u Our Door to Door Service u All Cruises depart from Liverpool u Accommodation on board u All meals & snacks throughout your cruise u Complimentary tea & coffee during the day & early evening at selected venues (tea/coffee facilities are available in the cabins) u All entertainment, sports & leisure facilities u All port taxes u Porterage u All Cruises now include the ‘All Inclusive’ Drinks Package

Waterfalls, Fjords & Glaciers

All Inclusive Drinks Package ~ includes selected beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks plus tea and coffee in the restaurants and buffet areas. Many premium drinks and cocktails will be available at half price too.

Shore Excursions ~ can be booked closer to the date of travel and are booked direct with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and are not included in any of the prices stated. Shore Excursions are subject to availability.

10 Days

Go in search of breathtaking landscapes and incredible natural wonders deep within the heart of the Norwegian fjords and experience the unique tranquillity and astonishing beauty of the fjordland. Cruise through the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, see the stunning Seven Sisters Waterfall, gaze at the incredible Jostedalsbreen – Europe’s largest inland glacier - and enjoy rides on two of the world's most beautiful railways in Flåm and Bergen.

What’s Not Included: u Shore Excursions u Hairdressing, Health & Beauty Treatments and selected fitness classes u Personal laundry & dry cleaning u Passports & Visa costs u Holiday Insurance u Government levies or taxes u Discretionary gratuities to the crew, drivers, guides etc on-board and ashore

PORTS OF CALL

u Liverpool u Cruising past Srandafjellet Mountain u Cruising Sunnylvsfjorden u Hellesylt, Storfjord, Norway u Cruising Geirangerfjord u Seven Sisters Waterfall u Geiranger, Geirangerfjord, Norway u Olden, Nordfjord, Norway u Cruising Nordfjord u Flam, Aurlandsfjord, Norway u Cruising Naeroyfjord u Bergen, Norway u Liverpool

DEPARTURE

DAYS

TWIN INSIDE CABINS FROM

TWIN OUTSIDE CABINS FROM

SINGLE INSIDE CABIN FROM

THURSDAY 5TH MAY

10

£1059

£1179

£1659

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

5

FRED. OLSEN CRUISES

* Based on the prices from the Fred. Olsen website 23rd September 2015

FRED. OLSEN CRUISES

Rugged & Rural Canada

17 Days

Discover the astonishing beauty and unique cultures of rugged and rural Canada, a country renowned for its stunning natural scenery and traditional towns and villages.

Go in search of wonderful wildlife including puffins and whales in St. John's – the oldest English-founded city in North America – stroll along the shores of the beautiful Bras D'Or Lake in Cape Breton from Sydney, Nova Scotia and experience the rural lifestyle in Red Bay, Labrador.

Islands of the Adriatic with Venice

26 Days

This amazing Adriatic cruise offers you the chance to enjoy stunning scenic cruising, explore remote sun-drenched islands and visit four of Fred.’s guests’ top twenty worldwide destinations in 7 different countries – including Venice, Split and Dubrovnik – on one fabulous, unforgettable cruise holiday.

PORTS OF CALL

PORTS OF CALL

u Liverpool u Killybegs, Ireland u St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada u St. Pierre, St. Pierre & Miquelon u Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada u Corner Brook, Newfoundland, Canada u Red Bay, Labrador, Canada u Belfast, Northern Ireland u Liverpool

u Liverpool u Gibraltar u Cartagena, Spain u Catania, Sicily, Italy u Kerkira, Corfu, Greece u Cruising Bay of Kotor u Kotor, Montenegro u Hvar, Croatia u Cruising Laguna Veneta u Venice, Italy (overnight) u Cruising Laguna Veneta u Split, Croatia u Dubrovnik, Croatia u Valletta, Malta u Malaga, Spain u Cadiz, Spain u Liverpool

DEPARTURE

DAYS

TWIN INSIDE CABINS FROM

TWIN OUTSIDE CABINS FROM

SINGLE INSIDE CABIN FROM

DEPARTURE

DAYS

TWIN INSIDE CABINS FROM

TWIN OUTSIDE CABINS FROM

SINGLE INSIDE CABIN FROM

SATURDAY 14TH MAY

17

£1999

£2199

£3099

MONDAY 6TH JUNE

26

£2949

£3239

£4449

Norwegian Fjords & The Orkney Isles

9 Days

See contrasting sights and natural delights on our stunning scenic cruise through the dramatic landscapes of Norway and the lush flatlands of the Orkney Islands. Sail deep into the heart of the fjordland and © Flickr - Tinglestan marvel at the breathtaking Briksdal Glacier, majestic Hornelen Mountain and astonishing Jostedalsbreen Glacier before admiring the rugged valleys of the Orkneys.

PORTS OF CALL

u Liverpool u Cruising Nordfjord u Cruising Hornelen u Flam, Aurlandsfjord, Norway u Cruising Naeroyfjord u Bergen, Norway u Kirkwall, Orkney Isles u Liverpool DEPARTURE

DAYS

TWIN INSIDE CABINS FROM

TWIN OUTSIDE CABINS FROM

SINGLE INSIDE CABIN FROM

MONDAY 29TH AUGUST

9

£1069

£1249

£1799

6

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9 Days

Leave the winter gloom behind and escape to the shores of Spain and France, in search of the beautiful architecture, intriguing culture and fascinating history of charming towns and cities. Embark on © Flickr – carthesian tours to Bilbao from Getxo to visit the world famous Guggenheim, wander the gorgeous Galician streets of El Ferrol, discover the delightful historic quarter of La Rochelle on a tour from La Pallice and explore Lorient's battle-hardened bay.

PORTS OF CALL

u Liverpool u El Ferro, Spain u Bilbao (from Getxo), Spain u La Rochelle (from La Pallice), France u Lorient, France u Liverpool DEPARTURE

DAYS

TWIN INSIDE CABINS FROM

TWIN OUTSIDE CABINS FROM

SINGLE INSIDE CABIN FROM

FRIDAY 30TH SEPTEMBER

9

£869

£1049

£1419

Canaries Christmas & Funchal Fireworks 19 Days

Islands of the Canaries & Cape Verde

Soak up the beautiful winterwarmth in stunning island locations, relax on golden-sand beaches and explore incredible volcanic landscapes – a world away from the cold, long nights back home. Step back into summer in the Cape Verde Islands with calls to magnificent Mindelo and pretty Praia, soak up the sunshine in Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote and enjoy the sights and delights of Lisbon, Oporto (from Leixoes) and Vigo.

PORTS OF CALL

u Liverpool u Oporto (from Leixoes), Portugal u Funchal, Madeira (overnight) u Mindelo, Cape Verde Islands u Praia, Cape Verde Islands u Santa Cruz, Tenerife u Las Palmas, Gran Canaria u Arrecife, Lanzarote u Lisbon, Portugal u Vigo, Spain u Liverpool DEPARTURE

DAYS

TWIN INSIDE CABINS FROM

TWIN OUTSIDE CABINS FROM

SINGLE INSIDE CABIN FROM

SUNDAY 20TH NOVEMBER

22

£1999

£2259

£2899

Escape the typically cold, wet weather of December and enjoy a memorable festive period in the warm sunshine of the Canaries on this fantastic Christmas cruise.

Spend Christmas Eve in Casablanca, enjoy the unique celebrations and festivities on board the ship on Christmas Day and see out the final week of 2016 in the Canaries before welcoming the arrival of the New Year is style in Madeira.

PORTS OF CALL

u Liverpool u Vigo, Spain u Cadiz, Spain u Casablanca, Morocco u Arrecife, Lanzarote u Las Palmas, Gran Canaria u San Sebastian, La Gomera u Santa Cruz, Tenerife u Santa Cruz, Las Palma u Funchal, Madeira u Liverpool DEPARTURE

DAYS

TWIN INSIDE CABINS FROM

TWIN OUTSIDE CABINS FROM

SINGLE INSIDE CABIN FROM

SUNDAY 18TH DECEMBER

19

£1979

£2359

£3199

22 Days

Booking Conditions for all cruises: u A non-refundable deposit of 15% of the cabin price, per person, is required to confirm your booking along with a completed booking form. u The Balance is due 15 weeks prior to travel (exact date will be outlined on the confirmation paperwork). u Prices as shown are per person & subject to cabin availability. u All cruises are operated by Greatdays Holidays (ABTA Y0380) for whom Ellen Smith Tours are an authorised agent. u All Cheque payments are to be made out to: Greatdays Holidays Limited.

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

u Shore excursions are booked direct with Fred.

Olsen approximately 6 weeks prior to travel.

Please Note: All of the Fred. Olsen Cruises mentioned in this brochure on pages: 5, 6 & 7 are NOT protected under our BCHG Bonding (as per the details on page 2).

However, they are ABTA protected. Ellen Smith Tours act as retail agents for Greatdays Holidays Ltd, who are working in association with Fred Olsen Cruise Lines. Registered in England No. 1903941. The cruise holiday packages are ABTA Y0380 protected. Details of all booking conditions will be supplied with the Confirmation of Booking.

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FRED. OLSEN CRUISES

A French & Spanish Escape

Mystery Tours MYSTERY TOURS

For 2016 we continue to provide our very popular Mystery Tours.

These tours are excellent value for money and offer a surprise destination, as well as places of interest to visit.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Bed, Full Breakfast and 3 course Evening Meals u Good Standard Hotel in the British Isles u All Bedrooms will have Private Facilities and tea/coffee makers u A Different Hotel will be used for all tours u Either 2 or 3 Day Excursions will be included

MYSTERY HOTEL For our Mystery Tours we will use a good standard of hotel which will be based in the British Isles. All bedrooms will be en-suite and will have television and tea/coffee makers.

Sorry but we cannot guarantee there will be a lift available at the hotel.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

SUNDAY 17TH JANUARY

5

£40

SUNDAY 20TH MARCH

5

SUNDAY 19TH JUNE

5

MONDAY 11TH JULY

5

SUNDAY 28TH AUGUST

5

MONDAY 3RD OCTOBER

5

MONDAY 7TH NOVEMBER

5

£179 £279 £309 £319 £329 £299 £289

£40 £40 £40 £40 £40 £40

Day Excursions All of our Mystery Tours will include a minimum of 2 day excursions

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ROSEMUNDY HOUSE HOTEL HHH AA This elegant 3-star standard hotel is set in over 4 acres of secluded gardens and woodlands and yet only a hundred yards from the main street in the quaint village of St. Agnes. The Queen Ann style hotel is family run and has been tastefully extended and converted. All the bedrooms have private facilities with colour TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers.

The hotel offers a Restaurant, Lounge, Bar, entertainment and outdoor swimming pool. Sorry no lift.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u This Tour has ‘Winter Warmer’ theme with Sherry Reception u One afternoon cream tea u Glass of wine on the last evening & a Rose for the ladies on Valentines Day. Excursions include: u Falmouth u Padstow u Truro

A Cornish ‘Winter Warmer’

u We enjoy our journey to the deep harbour town of Falmouth where there will be free time to explore. u We make our way to the lovely harbour town of Padstow, nestled on the Western side of the River Camel estuary. u A visit to the capital of Cornwall ~ Truro, with its cathedral spires majestically dominating the skyline.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

THURSDAY 11TH FEBRUARY

5

£219

NIL

ROSEMUNDY HOUSE HOTEL HHH AA The Queen Ann style hotel is family run and has been tastefully extended and converted. All the bedrooms have private facilities with colour TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Lounge, Bar, entertainment and outdoor swimming pool. Sorry no lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Poldark’s Cornwall The breathtaking and rugged Cornish coastline and mining heritage proved the ideal backdrop for filming the new BBC adaptation of Winston Graham’s Poldark. This tour is an opportunity to explore some of the landscape that inspired the author to write his novels. Our tour is based in St. Agnes steeped in mining history, the village still retains a traditional friendly Cornish atmosphere.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Poldark Tin Mine & Gardens and Falmouth u Bodmin & The Village of Minions u Charlestown & Mevagissey u Truro

u We enjoy an excursion which takes us to the Poldark Tin Mine & Gardens, near Helston. See, feel, smell & explore the mine tunnels and caverns where the BBC filmed the Poldark 2015 underground sequences. Whilst at this World Heritage Site we enjoy a guided tour down the mine followed by some free time to explore the gardens or maybe visit the wood turning shop and jewellery workshop. Following this visit we make our way to the deep harbour town of Falmouth where we have free time to explore. u We head towards Bodmin Moor making a stop in Bodmin, the ancient County Town of Cornwall. Here you can enjoy the towns attractions such as Bodmin Jail or the Courthouse Experience or maybe just enjoy the many traditional shops Bodmin has to offer. From here we make our way to the village of Minions situated high up on Bodmin Moor and where the ageing, stone-built cottages were the perfect choice for the homes of Ross Poldark’s tenants. u We make our way to Charlestown, near St. Austell and famed for its collection of ships and traditional appearance – the original Grade II Listed Harbour is complete with Tall Ships and is perfect for Graham Winston’s 18th century setting. We spend some free time here before continuing to the old fishing port of Mevagissey. u A visit to Truro. While Corsham in Wiltshire doubled as Truro for filming, the city itself was Winston Graham’s true inspiration for the story of Poldark and was the location of choice for the world premier of the series.

Please Note: The guided tour at Poldark Mine is a walking tour of the mine and consists of 49 steps going down and 39 steps coming back up and therefore is not suitable for the infirm or disabled.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

WEDNESDAY 20TH APRIL

6

£399

NIL

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

9

ENGLAND

Our tour is based in St. Agnes a picturesque village on the north coast of Cornwall, nestled in the lee of an impressive landmark which dominates the skyline of the beautiful and dramatic Atlantic coast.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

ROSEMUNDY HOUSE HOTEL HHH AA This elegant 3-star standard hotel is set in over 4 acres of secluded gardens and woodlands and yet only a hundred yards from the main street in the quaint village of St. Agnes. The Queen Ann style hotel is family run and has been tastefully extended and converted. All the bedrooms have private facilities with colour TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers.

The hotel offers a Restaurant, Lounge, Bar, entertainment and outdoor swimming pool. Sorry no lift.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u The December Tour has a ‘Mistletoe & Wine’ theme with Sherry Reception u Visit & gift from Santa u Mince Pies on the last evening.

Excursions for the October & December Tours include: u The Deep Harbour Town of Falmouth u The harbour Town of Padstow u The Cathedral City of Truro

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Cornish Delights

d Includes: Mistletoe & Wine theme

tour

ENGLAND

Our tour is based in St. Agnes a picturesque village on the north coast of Cornwall, nestled in the lee of an impressive landmark which dominates the skyline of the beautiful and dramatic Atlantic coast. Steeped in mining history, the village still retains a traditional friendly Cornish atmosphere.

u We enjoy our journey to the deep harbour town of Falmouth, where we enjoy some free time to explore. u We make our way to the lovely harbour town of Padstow, nestled on DEPARTURE

DAYS

MONDAY 17TH OCTOBER

5

MONDAY 5TH DECEMBER

5

the Western side of the River Camel estuary. u A visit to the capital of Cornwall ~ Truro, with its cathedral spires majestically dominating the skyline.

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

THEME

£349 £289

NIL

–

NIL

Mistletoe & Wine

The December tour has a ‘Mistletoe & Wine’ theme at the hotel.

ROSEMUNDY HOUSE HOTEL HHH AA This elegant 3-star standard hotel is set in over 4 acres of secluded gardens and woodlands and yet only a hundred yards from the main street in the quaint village of St. Agnes. The Queen Ann style hotel is family run and has been tastefully extended and converted. All the bedrooms have private facilities with colour TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Lounge, Bar, entertainment and outdoor swimming pool. Sorry no lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Cornwall & The Eden Project Our tour is based in St. Agnes a picturesque village on the north coast of Cornwall, nestled in the lee of an impressive landmark which dominates the skyline of the beautiful and dramatic Atlantic coast. Steeped in mining history, the village still retains a traditional friendly Cornish atmosphere.

u We enjoy a visit to the spectacular Eden Project where you can enjoy the Biomes such as the Mediterranean Biome or the Rainforest Biome, explore the outdoor gardens, The Core, the Visitor Centre , learn about the plants, gather gardening tips from the Eden Team. Land Trains run regularly from the Visitor Centre to the Biomes and back. A great day out. u We make our way to Marazion with its stunning views towards the Lizard Peninsula & Land’s End and located overlooking the fairy-tale castle perched on St. Michael’s Mount. Following some free time here we make our way to the deep water harbour town of Falmouth where we spend the afternoon before making our way back to the hotel. u We enjoy our journey to the lovely old port of St. Ives where you can lose yourself in a maze of cobbled streets and alleyways. u An excursion which takes us to the seaside resort of Newquay bordered by 7 miles of glorious golden sandy beaches. After spending the morning here we make our way to Padstow, a charming working fishing port at the head of the River Camel.

Following some free time here we make our way back to the hotel.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Full Day visit to the Eden Project u St. Ives u Newquay & Padstow u Marazion & Falmouth

10

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

SUNDAY 14TH AUGUST

6

£439

NIL

www.ellensmith.co.uk

Looe, Cornwall

Situated on the south coast in Cornwall, Looe is a favourite holiday destination with a fine beach, shops, cafes, a working harbour and has a lovely riverside location. We stay at The Portbyhan Hotel which has recently undergone a £1.2 million refurbishment.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u 3 Star Hotel u 4 Nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast u Some Entertainment at the hotel February & October Excursions: u Tintagel & Boscastle u Polperro & Mevagissey May Excursions: u Tintagel & Boscastle u The Lost Gardens of Heligan & Fowey

© Flickr - Barry

THE PORTBYHAN HOTEL HHH We are delighted to be working with this newly refurbished hotel which is situated in an unrivalled position in the heart of West Looe, overlooking all the hustle & bustle of Looe’s working fishing harbour.

All of the bedrooms are en-suite and equipped with colour TV, radio, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel has a Harbour View Restaurant, Sun Terrace, Bar and Residents Lounge. The hotel is arranged on four floors and does have a lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

u February, May & October Tours: We enjoy an excursion which takes us to Tintagel, set high on the rugged North Cornwall coast with dramatic sea views. A spectacular place steeped in myths and mystery. From here we continue to the picturesque fishing village of Boscastle with its medieval past and distinctive natural harbour. u May Tour: We make our way to The Lost Gardens of Heligan for our included visit. The Lost Gardens of Heligan are one of the most popular botanical gardens in the UK and are typical of the 19th century Gardenesque style. From here we continue to Fowey, set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The town hangs off the west side of Fowey

estuary, whilst here discover the medieval & Georgian buildings and lining the main Fore Street you will find a range of independent shops.

Please Note: Our coach drops off in the Main Car Park above the town and there is a regular mini bus which will transport you to & from the town at a cost of approx. £2.50 per person. u February & October Tours: We make our way to Polperro where it is easy to step back in time in this largely unspoilt fishing village on the southeast coast of Cornwall. From here we continue to the picturesque fishing village of Mevagissey for some free time before returning to the hotel. u On all dates there will be a free day at leisure to explore Looe.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 15TH FEBRUARY

5

NIL

MONDAY 9TH MAY

5

MONDAY 31ST OCTOBER

5

£199 £319 £289

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

NIL NIL

11

ENGLAND

igan May Tour includes: The Lost Gardens of Hel

THE ESPLANADE HOTEL HHH With wonderful sea views overlooking Fistral Beach in a more relaxed and quieter part of Newquay, the Esplanade Hotel offers excellent accommodation and leisure facilities with indoor swimming pool. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and have complimentary Wifi, flat screen LCD TV’s and tea/coffee makers. Lift.

ITINERARY

Newquay ‘All Inclusive’ ‘Spring’ into Cornwall with this fantastic all-inclusive package to Newquay.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

ENGLAND

u Cornish Cream Tea on arrival at the hotel u Packed Lunch on two days u One Course Hot Buffet Lunch on one day u Breakfasts & Evening Meals including a Cornish themed dinner on one evening u Complimentary Bar between 6pm and 9pm each evening on selected brands u Entertainment on a minimum of two nights

u Tuesday: We enjoy an excursion which takes us to Port Isaac, a traditional fishing village and home to TV series Doc Martin. Following some free time here we make our way back making a stop in Padstow, a charming working fishing port at the head of the Camel River. From here we return to the hotel. u Wednesday: Following breakfast today we head into Cornwall’s one and only city, Truro where the cathedral dominates the city’s skyline. u Thursday: Our coach will transport you into Newquay for some free time before returning you to the hotel in time for lunch.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 14TH MARCH

5

£299

NIL

Sea View Rooms may be available on request but will incur a supplement.

THE PALACE HOTEL HHH One of Paignton’s finest hotels, the Palace boasts a prime seafront location with fantastic views across Torbay. All of the bedrooms are tastefully furnished and have private facilities with colour TV, hairdryer, trouser press and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Washington Bar, Sun Lounge, Singer Lounge, Indoor Pool, luxury Spa Pool, Sauna & Steam Room and Garden. Some Entertainment. LIFT.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Welcome Drink & Biscuits u Sherry OR Bucks Fizz Reception u Bingo u Entertainment each evening u 1 x Afternoon Tea/Coffee u Party Night with Optional Fancy Dress

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Paignton Includes: ‘Cosy Breaks’ Welcome to Paignton, part of the stunning English Riviera, situated on the South Devon coastline in sheltered Torbay.

Paignton is very popular if you are looking for a quiet break.

Like all of Torbay, Paignton was frequented by Victorians and some of the architecture still remains. Parts of Paignton can be found in the Domesday Book and it has been a small fishing port in years gone by.

12

u We enjoy an excursion which takes us through the beautiful Dartmoor National Park to the small vibrant town of Tavistock with its traditional architecture and Pannier Market. On our return to Paignton we make a stop at Buckfast Abbey.

u We make our way Exeter at the very heart of Devon – a beautiful Roman walled city that seamlessly mixes ancient and modern. Wander through the cobbled streets and squares that surround the 15th century cathedral and you’ll suddenly find yourself in a stylish, modern high street.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

THEME

MONDAY 4TH JANUARY

5

NIL

Cosy Break

MONDAY 7TH MARCH

5

NIL

Cosy Break

MONDAY 10TH OCTOBER

5

£215 £229 £315

NIL

–

www.ellensmith.co.uk

HEADLAND HOTEL HHH

The English Riviera ~ Torquay An award-winning resort where elegant Victorian villas, a bustling harbour and palm-fringed beaches give the Riviera its well-earned name.

THE DERWENT HOTEL HHH NOW 3 STAR

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u The January & March Tours staying at the Headland Hotel include a ‘Cosy Break’ theme with: Sherry OR Bucks Fizz Reception; Bingo; Entertainment each evening; 1 x Afternoon tea/coffee; Party Night with Optional Fancy Dress u The February Tour staying at the Coppice Hotel includes a ‘House Party’ theme with Welcome tea & biscuits; Nightly Happy Hour (half price/2 for 1 drinks); 1 x Afternoon Cream Tea

Situated close to the seafront and with easy access to the town centre via the promenade. All the bedrooms have private facilities with colour TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. As part of the Torquay Leisure Hotel Group, guests at The Derwent can take advantage of a range of leisure facilities including indoor & outdoor swimming pools, sauna and games room along with a choice of bars and entertainment. Lift.

THE COPPICE HOTEL HHHH GUEST ACCOMMODATION

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED Dartmouth, situated at the mouth of Excursions Included for the January, the River Dart for some free time.

February, March, November & u On the 6 Day tours We also include December Tours: an excursion where we head to u We enjoy an excursion to the historic Tiverton for a 1 ½ hour horse-drawn port of Teignmouth where we enjoy barge trip on the idyllic Grand Western some free time prior to making our Canal. way to Dawlish with its famous Black Swans. u An excursion which takes us to the Regency Town of Sidmouth, where we have chance to explore.

Excursions Included for the April, June, July & September Tours: DEPARTURE u We make our way to Bicton Park Botanical Gardens for our included MONDAY 25TH JANUARY visit. Set in the picturesque Otter MONDAY 15TH FEBRUARY Valley near the Jurassic Coast World MONDAY 28TH MARCH Heritage Site of East Devon, Bicton Park is one of Britain’s most beautiful MONDAY 11TH APRIL historic gardens.

SUNDAY 5TH JUNE u We enjoy an excursion which takes us SUNDAY 10TH JULY first of all to Brixham, one of the busiest fishing ports in the UK, but also SUNDAY 25TH SEPTEMBER a place where you can discover a MONDAY 21ST NOVEMBER range of arts & culture. Following some free time here we continue to MONDAY 5TH DECEMBER

An elegant Victorian Mansion House set in award winning gardens, The Coppice is a popular choice for all discerning visitors to Torquay & holidaymakers in search of good facilities & great value. The hotel is ideally situated between Torquay Harbour & Babbacombe beach.

The hotel offers comfortable en-suite bedrooms, secluded gardens & sun terraces, indoor & outdoor swimming pools, delicious food & above all a warm welcome and friendly atmosphere. Sorry No Lift, but ground floor/level access bedrooms are available.

Please Note: The swimming pools will be closed in February for annual maintenance.

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

HOTEL

THEME

5

£199 £199 £279 £289 £349 £369 £359 £259 £279

NIL

HEADLAND

‘Cosy Break’

NIL

COPPICE

‘House Party’

NIL

HEADLAND

‘Cosy Break’

NIL

DERWENT

–

NIL

DERWENT

–

NIL

DERWENT

–

NIL

DERWENT

–

NIL

COPPICE

‘Turkey & Tinsel’

NIL

HEADLAND

‘Turkey & Tinsel’

5 5 5 6 6 6 5 5

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

13

ENGLAND

Originally built as the private Torquay home for the Russian Royal Family, the Romanoffs, this elegant hotel sits majestically on the headland looking out to sea, The Headland Hotel is set in 2 acres of lovely grounds and offers stunning views across Torbay. All of the tastefully decorated bedrooms have en-suite facilities and have direct-dial telephone, colour TV and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a lounge, bar, Restaurant, entertainment and Lift to most floors. The Headland Hotel offers a free “taxi” service into town.

HOTEL DE LA MER A lovely family owned and run hotel set in beautiful Babbacombe. All of the well equipped bedrooms are en-suite and have Digital TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Bar, Restaurant and Entertainment. Sorry No Lift, however, there are some ground floor bedrooms available.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Babbacombe Babbacombe sits adjacent to Torquay, yet continues to enjoy its own independence. It boasts its very own promenade, theatre, shops & restaurants and of course the world famous Babbacombe Model Village. Stunning coastal views are abundant right around Lyme Bay’s Jurassic coast as far as Portland Bill. All this sits high above two beaches and a harbour with footpaths and road access in addition to the historic Babbacombe cliff railway, one of only a few original working funicular railways still in existence today.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

ENGLAND

u Dartmoor National Park & Tavistock u Totnes & Dartmouth u On the 8 Day Tour: we include a visit to Looe & Polperro u On the 8 Day Tour: we include a ‘Round Robin’ boat & train trip on the River Exe

u An excursion which takes us to Totnes, u On the 8 Day Tour: We enjoy an excursion which takes us into a unique and charming market town Cornwall to visit Looe and Polperro. which sits in the heart of South Devon. u On the 8 Day Tour: We make our Following some free time here we way to Exmouth in time for our ‘Round continue to the historical town of Robin’ boat & train trip. Upon arrival Dartmouth, situated at the mouth of in Exmouth we join our boat to enjoy a the River Dart. We enjoy time at leisure one hour cruise on the River Exe to here before returning to the hotel.

Topsham. We have some free time u We enjoy a day exploring Dartmoor here to explore before catching our National Park as we head to train for the return journey back to Moretonhampstead, known as the Exmouth where we will re-join our gateway to the High Moor and once a coach for the journey back to the major coaching stop for travellers hotel. between Exeter and Plymouth in the 18th century. Following some free time here we continue to the beautiful old stannary town of Tavistock where we have time to explore before returning to the hotel.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

SATURDAY 27TH FEBRUARY

5

SATURDAY 30TH JULY

8

SUNDAY 30TH OCTOBER

5

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

THEME

£179 £499 £289

NIL

Winter Warmer

NIL

–

NIL

Turkey & Tinsel

THE ROYAL YORK & FAULKNER HOTEL HHH This hotel is a fine example of the Regency architecture and forms a modern spacious hotel, situated in an unrivalled position at the centre of the Esplanade, directly overlooking the sea and adjacent to the picturesque shopping centre.

All the bedrooms have private facilities with colour TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers.

The hotel offers a Restaurant, Bar, Lounge, Aspara Spa with Hydrotherapy Pool, Sauna & Steam Cabin and Entertainment. Lift.

Sidmouth

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Sidmouth is probably the most unspoilt resort in the country and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful. Quiet and unhurried, Sidmouth has preserved the natural beauty of the countryside with colourful gardens, open spaces and tree covered hills. It’s setting of lush pasture, craggy cliffs and safe beach is pure delight for those who wish to get away from it all. The shops have retained the personal service and friendliness of a country town and the mild climate makes Sidmouth an ideal choice for a break.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u The Pretty Harbour Village of West Bay u Seaside Resort of Weymouth u Historic Seaside Town of Budleigh Salterton u Cathedral City of Exeter

14

u We make our way to the pretty harbour village of West Bay, a gateway town to the Jurassic Coast and where the ITV drama ‘Broadchurch’ was filmed. After spending some free time here we continue to Weymouth with its clean golden sand and fine Georgian seafront, where we spend the rest of the day before returning to Sidmouth. u An excursion which takes us to the tranquil and historic seaside town of Budleigh Salterton, made famous by

literary giants such as Noel Coward and P.G. Woodhouse. The High Street with its small stream and quaint town houses is also home to many quality shops, restaurants & cafes. From here we continue Devon’s capital city – Exeter, which boasts an array of historic architecture, including Roman ruins, historical Guildhall and most notably the magnificent St. Peter’s Cathedral, which sits at the heart of the city and dominates the skyline.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 16TH MAY

5

NIL

TUESDAY 20TH SEPTEMBER

5

£389 £409

www.ellensmith.co.uk

NIL

North Devon Hidden Coves, dramatic coastlines and rugged uplands all add to the beautiful setting of North Devon and will take your breath away.

Excursions Included for January & November: u Dartington Crystal Visitor Centre & Factory Experience u Historic Barnstaple u Half-Day in Bideford Excursions Included for May: u Single Journey on The West Somerset Railway u Free time in Minehead u Dartington Crystal Visitor Centre & Factory Experience u Half-Day in Bideford u Seaside Resort of Ilfracombe

© Blue Sky 4691_flickr

Dating back to the 1800’s the Durrant House Hotel is superbly situated and overlooks the Torridge estuary. All of the bedrooms are tastefully decorated with en-suite and are equipped with colour TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar, lounge, outdoor swimming pool, sauna & solarium. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED Excursions Included for January & November: u We enjoy the short journey to Torrington where we visit the Dartington Crystal Visitor Centre & Factory Experience. Watch the awardwinning craftsmen at work from the elevated viewing platform and learn all about the history of Dartington Crystal. u An excursion to Barnstaple, with its wonderful mix of Victorian, Medieval & Georgian architecture. u We enjoy a half-day visit to the attractive town of Bideford on the west bank of the River Torridge.

Excursions Included for May: u We enjoy the short journey to Torrington where we visit the Dartington Crystal Visitor Centre & Factory Experience. Watch the award-

winning craftsmen at work from the elevated viewing platform and learn all about the history of Dartington Crystal. Following this visit we make our way into the attractive town of Bideford, for some free time before returning to the hotel. u We make our way to Bishop’s Lydeard in time for our West Somerset Railway train. Sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery as you journey along to the coastal resort of Minehead. Upon arrival in Minehead we have free time to explore. Your driver will advise where to meet him in Minehead and at what time for the return, by coach, to the hotel. u An excursion which takes us to the seaside town of Ilfracombe for some free time.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

THEME

MONDAY 11TH JANUARY

5

NIL

Cosy Break

MONDAY 30TH MAY

5

NIL

–

MONDAY 7TH NOVEMBER

5

£159 £259 £219

NIL

Turkey & Tinsel

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

15

ENGLAND

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ‘Cosy Break’ theme in January includes: u A Complimentary Drink Each Evening u An Afternoon Tea Dance u Entertainment Each Evening u ‘Optional’ Fancy Dress on One Evening

DURRANT HOUSE HOTEL, NR. BIDEFORD HHH

THE DURLEY DEAN HOTEL HHH

Bournemouth

The recently refurbished Durley Dean Hotel is an historic Victorian townhouse hotel located not far from Bournemouth’s award-winning beach. All of the tastefully decorated bedrooms are en-suite and have Free Wifi access, LCD TV with freeview channels, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a Restaurant & Bar and Leisure Facilities which include an indoor swimming pool. Lift.

THE TROUVILLE HOTEL HHH

ENGLAND

With seven miles of golden sands and sparkling sea, the vibrant cosmopolitan town of Bournemouth has it all – a vast variety of shops and restaurants, buzzing nightlife, endless countryside offering peace and relaxation and beautiful award-winning gardens.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS The February tour staying at The Mayfair Hotel has a ‘Quids In’ Package which includes: u Snack Lunch each day u Cream Tea on one afternoon u Packed Lunch on day of departure u £1.00 Drinks (half pint of beer / glass of house wine / single House spirits)

The Trouville Hotel is a privately owned well established hotel in the heart of Bournemouth just a few minutes stroll from the town centre.

All of the well presented bedrooms are en-suite and have direct dial telephone, colour TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Bar and Leisure Facilities with heated indoor swimming pool and sauna. Lift.

THE MAYFAIR HOTEL HHH The Mayfair Hotel is set among Pine Trees, ideally located on the premier Eastcliff, close to Bournemouth town centre and only minutes from the Cliff Top and the beach. All the bedrooms have private facilities with TV, direct dial telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Bar, Ballroom and Some Entertainment. Lift.

Excursions on all tours include: u A visit to the Historic Market Town of Wareham u Seaside Resort of Swanage u The New Forest & Beaulieu Estate

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

u We enjoy an excursion which takes us through the New Forest making a stop in one of the lovely towns/villages enroute to Beaulieu Estate. Your admission ticket at Beaulieu gives access to The National Motor Museum, World of Top Gear, Palace House, Grounds & Gardens, Beaulieu Abbey and the Monorail. u On Thursday we enjoy an excursion which takes us the historic market town of Wareham situated between

the Rivers Frome & Piddle. Wareham has a wealth of fascinating architecture, charming museum, a bustling Quay, traditional & independent shops and today is market day. After spending some free time here we make our way to the seaside destination of Swanage with its restored Victorian pier, art galleries, boutique gift shops, museum & heritage centre.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

HOTEL

MONDAY 11TH JANUARY

5

£199 £199 £229 £259 £289 £279 £279

NIL

Durley Dean

NIL

Trouville

NIL

Mayfair

NIL

Trouville

NIL

Trouville

NIL

Trouville

NIL

Durley Dean

MONDAY 8TH FEBRUARY

5

MONDAY 29TH FEBRUARY

5

MONDAY 11TH APRIL

5

MONDAY 23RD MAY

5

MONDAY 24TH OCTOBER

5

MONDAY 28TH NOVEMBER

5

The November tour has a ‘Turkey & Tinsel’ theme at the hotel

16

www.ellensmith.co.uk

THE MAYFAIR HOTEL HHH THE TROUVILLE HOTEL HHH For all hotel details please refer to page 16

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Dorset & A sea train adventure Escape the hurly burly of modern life and let loose in Dorset – where memories are made! Holidays in Dorset will open your eyes to a county of contrasts, offering the best of countryside, coastline and ancient ruins. Our tours for Summer take in some of the Dorset coast & countryside and we’re sure they won’t disappoint!

u The highlight of our tour is a Sea Train Adventure. Our coach transports us to Poole where we meet our boat for a one hour cruise through Poole Harbour down the Jurassic Coast to the Victorian Pier and town of Swanage. Walk through the beautiful town of Swanage to the train station in time to catch the steam train on the Swanage Railway which takes us through picturesque Purbeck and on to the idyllic village of Corfe Castle.

Here we have a little free time to explore before catching the return train to Swanage. From here we catch our return boat for the sailing back to Poole Harbour where we will meet our coach & driver who will transport us back to the hotel. u We enjoy a visit to the historic coastal town of Christchurch, rich in heritage & culture and boasts two rivers, a castle, a beautiful 11th century Priory

and a mill of Saxon origin.

Christchurch Quay overlooks the pretty harbour. u Our coach transports us to the seaside resort of Weymouth with its golden sands, shallow waters, level promenade, quayside harbour and quaint colourful streets which offer high street names, gift shops and coffee houses. u On the 8 Day Tour we also enjoy a visit to the historic Ham Stone town of Sherborne with its abundance of ancient and beautiful buildings, superb Abbey, world famous Schools, picturesque Almshouses and two Castles. We make our return via the quaint village of Cerne Abbas, renowned for the Cerne Giant – a 180ft high ancient chalk figure carved out into the steep sloping hillside above the village.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

DEPARTURE

DAYS

SUNDAY 10TH JULY

6

SUNDAY 14TH AUGUST

8

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

HOTEL

£399 £449

NIL

Trouville

NIL

Mayfair

THE MAYFAIR HOTEL HHH For hotel details please refer to page 16

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Day Excursion to St. Peter Port on Guernsey with Condor Ferries u A relaxing day into the New Forest making stops at Lymington & Lyndhurst u A visit to Poole with its large natural harbour

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Bournemouth & A Channel Island Experience If you’ve never ventured to the Channel Islands before, then these two tours offer a fantastic opportunity to discover St. Peter Port on the Island of Guernsey for a day excursion. And what’s more you don’t need a Passport or photographic ID and you don’t need to change to a different currency! St. Peter Port, the island’s capital, is a bustling harbour town, a tapestry of architectural styles that tell the story of the region’s fortunes. With its cobbled streets and picturesque sea front it’s easy to see why St. Peter Port is considered one of Europe’s prettiest harbour towns. Whilst here why not visit Castle Cornet which has stood guard over the town for 800 years or head to the Guernsey Tapestry at the Gallery in St. James Concert Hall, venture to the top of the town to discover Candie Gardens or just take it easy and explore the boutique shopping.

u We enjoy a day excursion to Guernsey as we make our way to Poole in time for the 09:30am fast ferry to Guernsey. We arrive in Guernsey at 12:30pm where you will have free time to explore the winding cobbled streets and quaint shops of St. Peter Port before catching the 4:30pm fast ferry back to Poole. (please note: the coach doesn’t travel to Guernsey with you). u We enjoy a relaxing day as our coach takes us into the New Forest. We make a stop at the Georgian market town of Lymington, set on the coast. The town’s narrow streets are lined with pretty period cottages and houses. Lymington High Street has several independent shops and designer boutiques. After spending some free time here we continue to Lyndhurst, the largest village in the New Forest. u We make the short journey to Poole, known for its large natural harbour. We spend some free time here before returning to Bournemouth.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

HOTEL

SUNDAY 12TH JUNE

6

Mayfair

6

£379 £389

NIL

SUNDAY 18TH SEPTEMBER

NIL

Mayfair

Please Note: For the day trip to Guernsey you DO NOT require any photographic ID and currency usually accepted whilst on Guernsey is Sterling. This day will be a late return to the hotel. The coach doesn’t travel to Guernsey with you.

(Sailing times are correct at the time of going to print).

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

17

ENGLAND

u Return Cruise Poole Harbour to Swanage u Return Train Journey on the Swanage Railway – Swanage to Corfe Castle Village u Historic Christchurch u Seaside Resort of Weymouth u On the 8 Day Tour we also include a visit to Sherborne & Cerne Abbas

Isle of Wight This diamond-shaped island has a magic all of its own – and is allegedly one of the UK’s sunniest and warmest places!

ENGLAND

Boasting award-winning beaches, unspoilt and spectacular scenery and a rich historical heritage the Isle of Wight has something for everyone to enjoy.

Enjoy one of these tours for 2016 and discover picturesque villages, spectacular cliffs, sandy beaches and everything else the Isle of Wight has to offer.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Excursions Included for April & October u Godshill and Admission to Carisbrooke Castle u Newport u Alum Bay & Yarmouth Excursions Included for May & September u Godshill and Admission to Carisbrooke Castle u Newport u Alum Bay & Yarmouth u Ryde & Rosemary Vineyard

18

THE OCEAN HOTEL, SANDOWN HH This family owned and managed hotel sits conveniently in the High Street but also on the Esplanade overlooking Sandown Bay and with the long beach only a few steps away. All the bedrooms have private facilities with telephone, colour TV and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant; Bar; Lounge; Garden; Sun Terrace; Outside Swimming Pool (seasonal); and Entertainment. Lift (does not serve all floors).

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

u On All Tours: We include an excursion to Alum Bay & the Needles where we spend some free time.

Following this visit we make our way to Yarmouth where we enjoy some free time. u On All Tours: We make our way to Godshill with its charming thatchedroofed cottages, delightful medieval church and winding main street – a quintessential English village.

Following some free time here we make our way to Carisbrooke Castle for our included visit. Enjoy the Exhibition & Castle Museum, Princess Beatrice Garden, The Chapel, The Keep & Wall Walk, meet the donkeys and explore the Royal Connections.

Following this visit we head to Newport for some free time before returning to the hotel.

u On the May & September Tours: We make our way to Ryde where we enjoy some free time to explore. On our return to the hotel we make a stop at the Rosemary Vineyard, one of the largest producers of English Wine, covering 30 acres. Whilst here we enjoy a tour & tasting.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

MONDAY 11TH APRIL

5

FRIDAY 27TH MAY

6

SATURDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER

6

TUESDAY 11TH OCTOBER

5

£289 £369 £399 £299

www.ellensmith.co.uk

SEA VIEW SINGLE SUPPLEMENT SUPPLEMENT PER PERSON

NIL

£20.00

NIL

£25.00

NIL

£25.00

NIL

£20.00

THE HILTON BASINGSTOKE HOTEL HHHH This 4 star standard hotel is located on the outskirts of Basingstoke and is ideally placed for getting around the delightful Hampshire countryside. All bedrooms are en-suite and have all the modern day facilities you would expect including TV, pay movies, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Sorry No Lift, however ground floor rooms may be available.

Please Note: All bedrooms are located on the ground & first floor.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

© Flickr – davidgsteadman

The New Forest, Winchester and Jane Austen Country One of the world’s most famous authors spent most of her life in the historic and beautiful county of Hampshire. Here Jane Austen found the inspiration to write such classics as Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Mansfield Park and Sense & Sensibility. This tour for 2016 visits some of the places which featured strongly in the life of Jane Austen, as well as the beautiful New Forest & Buckler’s Hard.

A further delight is the historic Silk Mill at Whitchurch.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

for the Austen family. Here you can discover the history of this fascinating village with many maritime links. Later we drive through the forest for a break in the pretty village of Burley. u An excursion which takes us to Sherborne St. John where we visit The Vyne. It was here that Jane Austen attended many dinner dances and social gatherings. We have time here to explore the house. In the afternoon we visit Whitchurch Silk Mill, built on the River Test in 1800, during the reign of King George III. Silk has been woven here since 1820/1830’s producing high quality silks to order for theatrical costume, interior designers and historic houses.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

THURSDAY 21ST JULY

5

£319

£80.00

APOLLO HOTEL, BASINGSTOKE HHHH The 4 star standard Apollo Hotel stands to the north of Basingstoke, in Hampshire. This modern hotel provides well equipped accommodation and spacious lounges. Facilities include a smartly appointed leisure club with indoor swimming pool, sauna and gym. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and have TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. Lift.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u 4 Star Hotel with Indoor Swimming Pool u Superb Hotel Entertainment u New Alresford u Winchester

ITINERARY

The Legendary Joe Loss Orchestra in Hampshire For 2016 our base for this excellent weekend break is a super 4 star hotel to the north of Basingstoke. We visit delightful New Alresford and historic Winchester. To make this a memorable weekend the highlight is a superb ‘Big Band’ evening of music, singing and dancing to the legendary Joe Loss Orchestra, now led

by Todd Miller.

Following this visit we continue to u Friday: Winchester, with its magnificent After being picked up from home we cathedral. Again, we have free time to enjoy our outward journey making explore before re-joining the coach for suitable stops en-route to Hampshire the journey back to the hotel. and on to the Apollo Hotel. Dinner this Entertainment follows dinner this evening is followed by an evening with evening. the legendary Joe Loss Orchestra, now u Sunday: led by Todd Miller.

Following breakfast this morning we u Saturday: leave the hotel and make our journey Today we make our way south to New home.

Alresford, a lovely little Georgian town where we have time to explore.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

FRIDAY 29TH JANUARY

3

£229

NIL

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

19

ENGLAND

u Jane Austen’s House at Chawton u Winchester’s Magnificent Cathedral u The Vyne u Whitchurch Silk Mill u Buckler’s Hard & The New Forest

u We drive through the villages of Deane, Ashe and Overton. The original church in Deane was where Jane Austen’s father had his first church living as rector. Winchester is our destination today where we visit the historic Cathedral. Jane died in 1817 and is buried in the Cathedral. From Winchester we make our way to Jane Austen’s house at Chawton, near Alton. Jane lived in the charming red brick 17th century house from 1809 to 1817. The house is now a museum with extensive collections of her works and memorabilia. u We visit the beautiful New Forest where we take a break in Lyndhurst before making our way to Buckler’s Hard, a favourite day trip destination

APOLLO HOTEL, BASINGSTOKE HHHH The 4 star standard Apollo Hotel stands to the north of Basingstoke, in Hampshire. This modern hotel provides well equipped accommodation and spacious lounges. Facilities include a smartly appointed leisure club with indoor swimming pool, sauna and gym.

All of the bedrooms are en-suite and have TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. Lift.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u 4 Star Hotel u Market Town of Banbury u Admission to Highclere Castle, Gardens & Egyptian Exhibition u Picturesque Market Town of Marlborough u Basildon Park – A filming location for Downton Abbey

Highclere Castle ~ Downton Abbey

Residence Includes: The Crawley’s London rk Grantham House ~ Basildon Pa

ENGLAND

We enjoy a lovely break which includes a visit to Highclere Castle, the filming location for the recent major drama series from ITV, Downton Abbey, which portrays the lives of the Crawley family and the servants who work for them. Highclere Castle has been home to the Carnarvon family since 1679. The Castle’s history also includes a fascinating connection with ancient Egypt, as the 5th Earl, with Howard Carter discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings in 1922. The Castle now houses an exhibition that commemorates this historic event.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

u We leave the hotel and make our way u On the outward journey we make a to Basildon Park, for our included visit stop at Banbury before continuing our to the House & Gardens. Upon arrival journey to the Apollo Hotel, there will be an introductory talk given Basingstoke. followed by a free-flow tour of the u We make our way to Highclere Castle house & gardens. Basildon Park the highlight of our tour and the featured in the season five finale of filming location for the ITV Drama Downton Abbey and the special Series ‘Downton Abbey’. Our ticket London season episode. The interiors includes admission to The Castle, of Basildon Park are used as the Gardens & the Egyptian Exhibition.

Crawley family’s London residence, Following this visit we enjoy a drive to Grantham House. Following this visit Marlborough where we spend some we continue our journey home. free time before returning to the hotel.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

WEDNESDAY 24TH AUGUST

3

£219

£60.00

THE WESSEX HOTEL, STREET HHH A modern hotel situated on the High Street of Street that nestles in the heart of historic and beautiful Somerset, in the Ancient Kingdom of Wessex. All the bedrooms have private facilities with TV, Hairdryer and Tea & Coffee Makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Bar and Lounge. Some Entertainment. Lift.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Full Day ticket to Longleat u Visit to Stonehenge & Visitor Centre u Visit to Cathedral City of Salisbury u Single Train Journey on the West Somerset Railway u Free Time to explore Minehead

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Longleat, Stonehenge & West Somerset Railway

Set within 900 acres of Capability Brown landscaped grounds, Longleat House is regarded as one of the best examples of high Elizabethan architecture in Britain and one of the most beautiful stately homes to visit. We also take time to visit Stonehenge, where we can walk in the footsteps of our Neolithic ancestors.

Stonehenge is one of the wonders of the world and the best known pre-historic monument in Europe. Our tour also includes a single train journey on the West Somerset Railway to Minehead.

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u We enjoy an excursion which takes us to the Longleat Estate. We spend the full day here and our ticket includes: The House & Gardens; The Safari Park including Cheetah Kingdom and the Lions of Longleat; u We make our way towards Amesbury where we visit Stonehenge. Whilst here visit the Visitor Centre, take in the Stonehenge virtual stones experience, find out about the monument and its ancient landscape, wander around the Neolithic village, take the Shuttle Bus to the stone circle, browse the shop or relax in the café. In the afternoon we make our way to the cathedral city of

Salisbury, where we have time to explore. u Our coach transports us to Bishop’s Lydeard in time for our morning train journey on the West Somerset Railway. A true country branch line of the old Great Western Railway is full of fascination if you are looking for a nostalgic ride back in time through lovely countryside. We enjoy the single journey which takes us to the seaside resort of Minehead. Upon arrival here, there will be free time to explore before re-joining the coach for the return journey back to the hotel.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 18TH JULY

5

£359

NIL

www.ellensmith.co.uk

Eastbourne

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Pretty Village of Alfriston u English Martyrs Church - Sistine Chapel ceiling u Pretty Town of Steyning u Seaside Resort of Worthing u On the 6 & 8 Day Tours – A visit to Pashley Manor Gardens and Tenterden u On the 8 Day Tours – Charming Market Town of Battle & The Cinque Port of Rye u The February Tour at the Haddon Hall Hotel has a £1 Bar each evening.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

u A visit to the pretty village of Alfriston with its medieval narrow, twisting High Street. From here we make our way to Goring-on-Sea to visit The English Martyrs Church with its impressive reproduction of the famous Sistine chapel ceiling in Rome.

We call in at the pretty town of Steyning with its fine high street and historic buildings before returning to the hotel. u A visit to the seaside resort of Worthing. u On the 6 & 8 day tours we also include a visit to Pashley Manor Gardens. ‘One of the finest gardens in

England’ Pashley offers a sumptuous blend of romantic landscaping, imaginative plantings and fine old trees, fountains, springs and ponds.

Following this visit we continue to picturesque Tenterden with its attractive High Street and historic houses and shops. u On the 8 day tours we enjoy an excursion which first of all takes us to Battle. This charming market town grew up around Battle Abbey and takes its name from the famous – the Battle of Hastings in 1066. After some free time here we make our way to the Cinque Port of Rye for some free time before returning to the hotel.

THE HADDON HALL HOTEL The Haddon Hall Hotel is enviably situated at the seafront end of Devonshire Place, a broad tree lined avenue which links the main promenade with the town centre.

The Bandstand is located across the road from the hotel. All of the well furnished bedrooms have private facilities with colour television and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant, spacious lounge, ballroom, cocktail bar and some entertainment. Lift.

THE BEST WESTERN LANSDOWNE HOTEL HHH The Best Western Lansdowne Hotel is a privately owned hotel and has been in the same family since 1912. The hotel occupies a premier position on the uncommercialised seafront overlooking the Western Lawns and Wish Tower. All of the comfortable bedrooms are well furnished, many with beautiful antique furniture, are all en-suite and have colour TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Regency Bar and 5 Lounge Areas. Some Entertainment. Lift.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

HOTEL

MONDAY 22ND FEBRUARY

5

NIL

Haddon Hall

SATURDAY 7TH MAY

8

SUNDAY 12TH JUNE

6

SATURDAY 17TH SEPTEMBER

8

£199 £489 £399 £479

NIL

Haddon Hall

NIL

BW Lansdowne

NIL

Haddon Hall

PLEASE NOTE: The £1.00 Bar on the February Tour is from 8pm to 11pm each evening in the ballroom and includes a pint of selected draught beer, single house spirits, 125ml glass of house wine and soft drinks.

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

21

ENGLAND

Eastbourne is a town with grace and elegance that has something for everyone – a landscaped pedestrianised town centre, bordered by a large range of shops, a clean well managed beach and seafront renowned for its attractive three tier flower decked level promenade.

MERCURE HYTHE IMPERIAL HOTEL HHHH

NEW TOUR FOR 2016

This 4 star standard hotel is set in 50 acres of mature gardens with spectacular views over the English Channel. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and are equipped with TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Bar and Leisure Facilities with an indoor swimming pool. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Tastes and Flavours of Kent A great new tour for 2016 as we explore the delights of what Kent has to offer as we visit a vineyard, a cheese farm and a brewery – a fabulous tour to get your senses flowing!

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

ENGLAND

u Biddenden Vineyards – Tour, Tasting & Lunch u Winterdale Cheese Farm – Tour, Tasting & Kent Cream Tea u Shepherd Neame Brewery – Tour, Tasting & Afternoon Tea u Mysterious Marshes – New Romney & Lydd

Following some free time here we u We head for Biddenden Vineyard head inland to Tenterden, known as where we enjoy a guided tour of the the ‘Jewel in the Weald’ where we have winery, a vineyard walk, a tasting and some free time to finish up our day. a Ploughman’s Platter lunch. u We make the journey to Faversham Following this visit we make our way where we enjoy some free time prior to to visit the Winterdale Cheese Farm for our afternoon visit to Shepherd a guided tour of the dairy and cave, Neame Brewery for our ‘behind the followed by a cheese tasting and a scenes’ tour and tasting. We round cream tea. this visit off with a ‘Hop Pickers’ u An excursion which takes us to the Afternoon Tea before making our way land of the mysterious marshes! First back to the hotel. of all we head for New Romney – a Cinque Port since 1155. Here we have some free time to explore before continuing our journey to Lydd. In the 18th and 19th centuries the town was notorious for the activities of the ‘owlers’ (local smugglers hooting to © Shepherd Neame Brewery, Faversham each other at the dead of night).

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

SUNDAY 9TH OCTOBER

5

£369

£80.00

BEST WESTERN ABBOTS BARTON HOTEL, CANTERBURY HHH A warm welcome awaits at the Abbots Barton Hotel, a 3 star Gothic hotel set in the heart of Canterbury and just a 10 minute walk to the city centre. All bedrooms are en-suite with TV, direct dial telephone, iron & ironing board, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a restaurant & Bar. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Kent Gardens, Wines & Railway Lines Enjoy a holiday to Kent, known as the “Garden of England” with its attractive towns, imposing castles, fine gardens, glorious coastline & rolling meadows. On this tour we blend together the best of Kent, so you can sample, relax and enjoy the best of what South East England has to offer. We visit the “loveliest castle in the world”, taste some award-winning wines and board a vintage steam train for a nostalgic journey.

minute gentle winding journey u We enjoy a morning free in Canterbury through the Rother Valley and on to to explore this 14th century town, rich Tenterden, where we meet our coach. in history such as its famous Kings From here we continue to England’s School, monastery ruins, halflargest vineyard, Chapel Down where timbered houses and of course it’s we enjoy a guided tour and a tasting cathedral, designated a UNESCO of 5 different wines.

World Heritage Site. In the afternoon u We spend the morning with free time we make our way to Leeds Castle for in Rochester before making our way to our included visit. Described as the Hever Castle & Gardens, one of the “loveliest castle in the world”, Leeds best kept examples of a 13th century dates back over 900 years. While here castle and Royal Tudor Home. The we have time to explore the castle and castle is full of treasures and was once the gardens. the home of Ann Boleyn. The gardens u Time to relax and journey through the are reported to be amongst the best in rolling Kent countryside to Bodiam the UK – 125 acres including the with its imposing castle. Here we catch Italian Garden, water features, walled our steam train “The Jewel of the rose garden and over 4000 plants.

Weald” which will take us on a 50

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Entry to Leeds Castle & Gardens u Entry to Hever Castle & Gardens u Single Journey on a Steam Railway u Vineyard Tour & Tasting

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DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

SUNDAY 17TH JULY

5

£399

£60.00

www.ellensmith.co.uk

HILTON READING HOTEL HHHH (2 NIGHTS HALF-BOARD) All of the comfortable en-suite bedrooms feature LCD flat screen TV, iron/ironing board, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Bar, Lounge and Indoor Swimming Pool. Lift.

THISTLE HOTEL LONDON EUSTON HHHH (1 NIGHT BED & ENGLISH BREAKFAST) All of the comfortable bedrooms are en-suite and are equipped with LCD TV with freeview, direct dial telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities.

The hotel offers a Restaurant & Bar. Lift. before re-joining the coach for a scenic drive back to the Hotel. u Sunday: We drive to Hampton Court before continuing to Kew to board our boat for the 90 minute trip into Central London. Following the route of the famous University boat race we pass Chiswick and Barnes before arriving in Central London for some free time.

Make our way to the Thistle Hotel London Euston (Please Note: There is NO evening meal included tonight). u Monday: We head to Westminster Pier for our boat trip with commentary to Greenwich. Free time in Greenwich before re-joining the coach for home.

ITINERARY

Thames Tales 4 Cruises & A River The River Thames flows for 215 miles from the heart of Gloucestershire to the English Channel. This tour follows the length of this mighty river, with the chance to see the river from both land and water.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

FRIDAY 20TH MAY

4

£289

£81.00

BEST WESTERN PLUS READING MOAT HOUSE HOTEL HHHH This 4 star standard hotel is delightfully located on the banks of the River Lodden and offers ensuite bedrooms with TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities.

The hotel has a Restaurant, its own pub – The Poacher, Sindlesham Mill Bar and Gym. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Thames Valley, Oxford & Windsor for Easter Home to magnificent landscapes, the Thames Valley is a great destination to visit at any time of year. Along its course, the River Thames touches some of the most famous and inspiring areas of the country and on our visit we take in the delights of Oxford, Henley-on-Thames, Marlow, Windsor and ‘Midsomer Murders’ Country.

u We make our way along the Thames Valley to the town of Henley-onThames, famous for its rowing regatta.

Here we take a break giving us time to explore. From here we continue our way through Marlow, with its famous suspension bridge and onto Royal Windsor. We have time to obtain some lunch here and explore this riverside town before joining our boat for a cruise on the River Thames.

u We head north to the City of ‘Dreaming Spires’ – Oxford where we spend the day and have time to explore the ancient colleges, old buildings, fascinating little alleyways along with lots of pubs, cafes & tearooms. On our return to the hotel we visit the lovely Thames-side town of Wallingford, one of the filming locations for the series ‘Midsomer Murders’.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Oxford – Land of ‘Dreaming Spires’ u ‘Midsomer Murders’ Country u Henley-on-Thames u Marlow u Windsor u Windsor Boat Trip

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

FRIDAY 25TH MARCH

4

£259

£48.00

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

23

ENGLAND

u 2 Nights Half-Board and 1 Night Bed & English Breakfast u Oxford to Abingdon Cruise u Caversham Bridge to Henley Cruise u Kew to Westminster Pier Cruise u Westminster Pier to Greenwich Cruise

u Friday: We make our way to Oxford for our 2 hours cruise to Abingdon. The journey passes through beautiful countryside and highlights include the Oxford University intercollegiate regatta course and the magnificent Nuneham House. We re-join our coach in Abingdon and make our way to the Hilton Reading Hotel. u Saturday: We drive to Caversham Bridge where we join our boat for a 2 hour cruise to Henley. The cruise passes through many picturesque villages. Upon arrival in Henley there will be some free time to explore this riverside town

Surprising London

ENGLAND

An updated itinerary for 2016, featuring various attractions in and around our Capital City. From the delights of the London Eye to The View from The Shard to The Royal Mews, a visit to the Royal Albert Hall, a canal cruise and a market!

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u The View from The Shard u London Eye u Royal Mews u Royal Albert Hall u Regents Canal Cruise u Borough Market

DURING YOUR HOLIDAY THE FOLLOWING ATTRACTIONS ARE INCLUDED:

u London Eye We take flight with a ride on the fabulous London Eye, with fantastic views all over the city. u The Shard London’s latest landmark, the Shard, is to date the tallest structure in Europe.

The building is stunning and ‘The View from the Shard’ at the building’s pinnacle offers an incredible 360 degree view across the whole of London and beyond. u Regents Canal Trip We feature a boat trip on the Regents Canal to Little Venice, past London Zoo, Regents Park and through Maida Vale canal tunnel. u Borough Market In the atmospheric maze of narrow streets under the railway arches next to beautifully preserved Southwark Cathedral you will find Borough Market, London’s oldest and most

24

prestigious food market. You will be amazed at the variety of food on sale, from baked patisserie to Orkney kippers. Loads of small bars and restaurants are in Crown Square and along the riverside giving you chance to relax a while. u Royal Mews The Royal Mews is one of the finest working stables in existence. See the dazzling Gold State Coach and maybe catch a glimpse of the magnificent horses during this unique visit. u Royal Albert Hall Opened by Queen Victoria in 1871 the Royal Albert Hall is one of the UK’s most treasured and distinctive buildings.

Over 350 performances a year are held, ranging from classical to rock and pop to ballet and opera and more.

THE BULL HOTEL, GERRARD’S CROSS HHHH Overlooking the picturesque village common in Gerrard’s Cross, to the west of London, the 4 star rated Bull Hotel was built as a coaching inn in 1688 on the old London to Oxford road. Today the Bull maintains a charming period atmosphere and is a hotel where you can expect a warm and friendly welcome. The hotel’s beautiful gardens provide a place to relax and quietly unwind after your day out. Two bars, the traditional village bar or the quieter cocktail bar. All bedrooms are well appointed and feature en suite bathroom, satellite television and in-room movies, radio, telephone, hairdryer and hospitality tray. Lift.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

THURSDAY 4TH AUGUST

5

£439

£52.00

Please Note: There is quite a lot of walking involved in this tour.

www.ellensmith.co.uk

NEW TOUR FOR 2016

Royal Landmarks of London

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u A visit to Buckingham Palace u Guided tour of St. Paul’s Cathedral u Guided tour of The Houses of Parliament u Admission to Kew Gardens u Guided Services for the East End & Olympic Legacy Tour u River Thames Boat Trip

DURING YOUR HOLIDAY THE FOLLOWING ATTRACTIONS ARE INCLUDED:

u Buckingham Palace The official residence of Britain’s monarchy since 1837, Buckingham Palace needs little introduction. It is one of the capital’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the magnificent State Rooms, lavishly furnished with some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection. u The Houses of Parliament A guided tour of the Palace of Westminster, the Chamber of the House of Lords, the House of Commons and Westminster Hall. u River Thames Cruise From Westminster Pier we enjoy a delightful 90 minutes sail heading west along the River Thames to Kew Gardens. u Kew Gardens Enjoy an afternoon of relaxation at the Royal Botanic Gardens.

u East End Sightseeing Tour & Olympic Park We travel into London for a sightseeing tour of London’s East End, featuring the City of London, the Bank of England, Royal London Hospital (the Elephant Man), the ‘Blind Beggar’ Pub which gave General Booth the idea for the Salvation Army, Captain James Cook’s house and the stunning Queen Elizabeth Park, scene of many great sporting achievements in 2012.

Set in beautifully landscaped parklands we see iconic venues of the Games, including the Stadium and Arcelor Mittal Oribit. u St. Paul’s Cathedral A fascinating guided tour of historic St. Paul’s Cathedral, standing at the heart of the City of London – and of the British Nation. Created in the 17th Century by Sir Christopher Wren, the Cathedral is a landmark the world over, a place of celebration as well as remembrance.

THE BULL HOTEL, GERRARD’S CROSS HHHH Overlooking the picturesque village common in Gerrard’s Cross, to the west of London, the 4 star rated Bull Hotel was built as a coaching inn in 1688 on the old London to Oxford road. Today the Bull maintains a charming period atmosphere and is a hotel where you can expect a warm and friendly welcome. The hotel’s beautiful gardens provide a place to relax and quietly unwind after your day out. Two bars, the traditional village bar or the quieter cocktail bar. All bedrooms are well appointed and feature en suite bathroom, satellite television and in-room movies, radio, telephone, hairdryer and hospitality tray. Lift.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

THURSDAY 8TH SEPTEMBER

5

£439

£52.00

Please Note: This is a busy itinerary and there may be quite a lot of walking involved.

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

25

ENGLAND

A great new tour for 2016 which takes in some of the most popular attractions in our Capital City from Buckingham Palace to St. Paul’s Cathedral, Houses of Parliament to Kew Gardens as well as an ‘East End’ and an Olympic Legacy Guided tour and a boat trip on the River Thames.

COPPID BEECH HOTEL HHHH

NEW TOUR

Located in Royal Berkshire, the Coppid Beech hotel offers Alpine style accommodation with spacious en-suite bedrooms. All of the bedrooms are equipped with airconditioning, TV with digital channels and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar and Bier Keller, Health Club with indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room. Lift.

College, Mill house, Windsor Racecourse and Brocas Meadows.

Following the cruise we make our return to the hotel. u Tuesday: After breakfast today we make our way to Bath for a full day at leisure.

The city of Bath is so beautiful and special that it has been designated a World Heritage Site. With its beautiful architecture, iconic sights and fascinating history there is plenty to see & do. u Wednesday: We leave the hotel after breakfast and make our return journey making a stop in Stratford-upon-Avon before continuing the journey home.

ITINERARY:

Royal Windsor, Castle & Cruise Windsor is full of historic buildings and points of interest, most noticeably Windsor Castle, a medieval castle and royal residence.

On this new tour for 2016 we visit the beautiful Windsor Castle, enjoy some free time in Windsor and also sit back & relax with a cruise on the River Thames.

u Sunday: We make our way through The Cotswolds making a stop at Bourtonon-the Water, where we have time to explore. From here we continue our journey to the hotel. u Monday: Following a leisurely breakfast, we depart for Royal Windsor and our included visit to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. There will be a little free time giving you chance to explore and obtain some lunch before we take our 40-minute cruise upstream to Boveney Lock and return. The cruise offers views of Windsor Castle, Eton

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

ENGLAND

u Admission to Windsor Castle u 40 Minute Cruise on the Thames u A visit to the beautiful city of Bath

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

SUNDAY 22ND MAY

4

£289

£45.00

AZTEC HOTEL, NR. BRISTOL HHHH A lovely contemporary hotel with superb leisure facilities and in a great location for our weekend break. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and have TV, in-room fridge with fresh milk, complimentary mineral water in rooms, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar, lounge, leisure facilities with indoor swimming pool, sauna & steam room. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Coast & Country Weekend A lovely weekend break as we visit Ross-on-Wye in South Herefordshire. This lively market town is perched dramatically above the River Wye and offers visitors a number of antique shops and small independent retailers & galleries. We also visit the Forest of Dean and the coastal resorts of Weston-Super-Mare and Burnham-on-Sea.

u Sunday: Following breakfast we leave the hotel and make our way to Trentham Gardens, where we take a short break before continuing the journey home.

u Thursday: On our outward journey we make a stop in Shrewsbury, set amidst glorious countryside near to the Welsh Borders.

Shrewsbury is one of England’s finest medieval towns packed with timberframed black & white buildings. After spending some free time here we continue to the hotel. u Friday: We enjoy a day at the seaside visiting Weston-Super-Mare and Burnhamon-Sea. u Saturday: We make our way over the River Severn and up to Ross-on-Wye, where we have time at leisure to explore. We return to the hotel via the Forest of Dean.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u 4 Star Hotel with superb leisure facilities u Visit Ross-on-Wye u Forest of Dean u Weston-Super-Mare u Burnham-on-Sea

26

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

THURSDAY 10TH MARCH

4

£229

£60.00

www.ellensmith.co.uk

AZTEC HOTEL, NR. BRISTOL HHHH A lovely contemporary hotel with superb leisure facilities and in a great location for our weekend break. All of the bedrooms are ensuite and have TV, in-room fridge with fresh milk, complimentary mineral water in rooms, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers.

The hotel offers a restaurant, bar, lounge, leisure facilities with indoor swimming pool, sauna & steam room. Lift.

ITINERARY

Bristol, Bath & GWR Join us on this lovely tour for Summer as we visit two of the West Country’s best loved cities, enjoy a ride on the Gloucester & Warwickshire Railway and visit the home of the Marquis of Lansdowne – Bowood House & Gardens.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

THURSDAY 28TH JULY

5

£349

£80.00

BEST WESTERN PREMIER BLUNSDON HOUSE HOTEL HHHH Set in 30 acres of beautiful Wiltshire countryside this 4 star family owned and run hotel has extensive leisure facilities including indoor swimming pool and gym, two restaurants and three comfortable bars. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and have TV together with all modern day facilities you would expect from a hotel of this standard. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Discover the Cotswolds The Cotswolds are scattered with small pretty towns and villages, providing pleasant places to while away the time. A delightful ‘typically English’ area of rolling hillsides and traditional honey coloured stone. We also take time to visit the splendid Blenheim Palace as well as the Arts & Crafts garden of Hidcote.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u The beautiful Cotswolds u Admission to Blenheim Palace u Free time in Oxford u Admission to Hidcote u A Cream Tea on one afternoon at the hotel

u On the outward journey we make our way to the elegant spa town of Cheltenham where we spend some free time prior to continuing our journey to the hotel. u We head to Blenheim Palace, home of the 12th Duke of Marlborough and birthplace of Winston Churchill.

Explore this true masterpiece of 18th century Baroque architecture and discover the beauty of this World Heritage Site. Following this visit we continue to nearby Oxford, where we enjoy some free time before returning to the hotel. u We make our way to the pretty village of Broadway, described as a ‘typically English’ village, with its honey-

coloured buildings clustered around the green. Following some free time here we continue to Hidcote for our included visit. Hidcote is an Arts & Crafts Garden created by the American horticulturist Major Lawrence Johnston, where colourful and intricately designed outdoor ‘rooms’ are always full of surprises. u We enjoy a scenic tour of the beautiful southern Cotswolds. Our first visit takes us to the mellow stone village of Bibury, before making our way to Cirencester. After some free time here we complete the circle with a stop in Tetbury before returning to the hotel for our included cream tea.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

SUNDAY 29TH MAY

5

£359

£72.00

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

27

ENGLAND

u Full Day in Bristol u Admission to SS Great Britain u Full day in the city of Bath u Journey on Gloucester & Warwickshire Railway u Admission to Bowood House & Gardens

restaurants & pubs to keep you busy. u Thursday: u Sunday: On our outward journey we drive Today we depart for Toddington where through The Cotswolds, making a stop we board the train for our included in picturesque Bourton-on-the-Water journey through Laverton, before continuing to our hotel.

Winchcombe and Gotherington to u Friday: Cheltenham Race Course. We re-join A full day excursion to Bristol. Whilst our coach and continue to Gloucester here we have included a visit to where we spend some free time before Brunel’s SS Great Britain, where you returning to the hotel. will learn the story of Captain Gray, u Monday: Isambard Kingdom Brunel and the Following breakfast we leave the hotel incredible journey. There will then be and make our way to the Bowood free time to explore this maritime city Estate, home of the Marquis of and its many attractions. We return to Lansdowne, for our visit to the House the hotel taking in the sights of the & Gardens. The House & Gardens sit in Clifton Suspension Bridge. the centre of Capability Brown’s Great u Saturday: parkland and over half of the house, Today we spend the day in the which was purchased in 1754, is open beautiful city of Bath. This World to the public. Following this visit we Heritage Site is famous for its naturally continue the journey home. hot spa water and original Roman style baths. There is also lots of shops,

BEST WESTERN MARKS TEY HOTEL, COLCHESTER HHHH A lovely 4 star hotel ideally situated for our visits on this tour. All of the en-suite bedrooms have LCD television with freeview channels, complimentary WiFi access, hairdryer, trouser press and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar, lounge, indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room. Sorry No Lift, however some ground floor bedrooms may be available.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Constable Country & East Anglia Little villages, lush green meadows, rich farmlands and sandy heathlands depicted by the famous painters Constable and Gainsborough. We visit historic Bury St. Edmunds with its Dickens connections and the delightful East Anglian countryside and peaceful coastline. As a nice contrast we visit the ‘Essex Sunshine Coast’. All this combines to give a holiday of particular charm and nostalgia.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

ENGLAND

u Constable Country: Flatford Mill & the Vale of Dedham u Bury St. Edmunds & Lavenham u Aldeburgh & Southwold u ‘Essex Sunshine Coast’

u We discover the idyllic villages on our tour of Constable Country, including the birthplace of the famous painter at East Bergholt, an unspoilt village with many fine old houses and cottages. The church at Dedham, with its 131ft tower, and the little hamlet of Flatford Mill, were favourite landscape subjects. In the afternoon we visit the ‘Essex Sunshine Coast’ with bustling Clacton-on-Sea and the more relaxed Walton-on-the-Naze. u We enjoy the journey to Bury St. Edmunds famous for its Abbey Gardens and the Angel Hotel, where Dickens and Mrs Pickwick stayed.

Following some free time here we head for the pretty villages of Cavendish and Clare, with their pastel coloured cottages and on to Lavenham, one of our best preserved medieval villages. u We head into the rural north and the coastal village of Thorpeness. Here we pass ‘The House in the Clouds’, one of the country’s most famous follies.

Originally built as a water tower, now a family holiday base. We come to the time warp seaside town of Aldeburgh where little has changed for many years. After spending some time here we continue to Southwold for some free time.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

SUNDAY 24TH APRIL

5

£319

£52.00

MERCURE LETCHWORTH HALL HOTEL HHHH The 4 Star Mercure Letchworth Hall Hotel stands in 8 acres of grounds in Hertfordshire. Dating back to 1652 this former old English Manor House retains many Jacobean features. All bedrooms are beautifully appointed, are all en-suite and all have satellite television, radio, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. There is an Indoor Swimming Pool & Sauna. There is also a Lift, however this does not serve all bedrooms.

Woburn Abbey, Bletchley Park & Cambridge Woburn Abbey first opened its doors to the public in 1955 and has welcomed visitors from all over the world. Explore the many individual rooms, discover 18th century French & English furniture, marvel at the gold & silver collections and view one of the most outstanding collections of art works on public display.

Explore the 28 acres of gardens which offer peace & tranquillity with flower beds blooming, neat green lawns, ponds and woodland.

We also take time to visit Bletchley Park to explore, experience and enjoy the top-secret world of iconic WW2 Codebreaking huts and Blocks set within an atmospheric Victorian estate.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

u We enjoy a visit to Bletchley Park Museum. Once Britain’s Best Kept Secret, today Bletchley is a heritage site and vibrant tourist attraction.

Explore some of the iconic WW2 Codebreaking huts and blocks and marvel at the astonishing achievements of the Codebreakers whose work is said to have shortened the war by 2 years. We then continue to Woburn Abbey & Gardens for our included visit. Discover the history of Afternoon Tea, uncover fascinating stories and stroll through beautiful gardens. u We enjoy a full day excursion to Cambridge – a City for all Seasons.

Explore quaint passages set around the historic market place and colleges, where a unique and relaxing shopping experience can be found. Be inspired by beautiful museums and art galleries and admire the beautiful architecture and majestic college buildings. During the day we have included a 1 hour Chauffeured Punt on the River of the college ‘Backs’. The route takes you the length of the backs between Silver St and Quayside including Queen’s College and the Mathematical Bridge, Kings College, Claire College, Trinity Hall, Trinity College, St. John’s College, the Bridge of Sighs and Magdalene College.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Entrance to Woburn Abbey & Gardens u Admission to Bletchley Park Museum u Chauffeured Punt in Cambridge u Free Time in Cambridge

28

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

FRIDAY 24TH JUNE

4

£279

£45.00

www.ellensmith.co.uk

NORTHAMPTON MARRIOTT HOTEL HHHH The 4 star rated Northampton Marriott Hotel stands on the outskirts of the town and offers an ideal location for this tour. Hotel facilities include leisure centre with indoor swimming pool, sauna and gym. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and have cable/satellite TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a restaurant & bar.

Sorry No Lift

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Althorp and Other Gems A gem packed tour as we visit the Spencer family home of Althorp – the last resting place of Diana, Princess of Wales; Castle Ashby Gardens - the ancestral home of the Marquess of Northampton where we visit the stunning 25 acres of gardens; Boughton House – one of the great treasure houses of Europe; Enjoy a ride on the Nene Valley Railway and a short boat trip along the Grand Union Canal.

on the line to Peterborough Nene u We head for Castle Ashby, the Valley Station. The station is just a ancestral home of the Marquess of short distance to the city centre where Northampton. Here we visit the there will be time to explore this stunning gardens. There is a mixture of cathedral city before we catch our many different styles including a return train to Wansford. We re-join butterfly garden, a rainbow border, our coach for the return back to the fuschia house and Italian Gardens. hotel.

Following this garden visit we head for u Our coach takes us to Stoke Bruerne our visit to Boughton House, the where we find the Grand Union Canal, house has been the home of the a National Waterways Museum and Montagus and their descendants since the Boat Inn. From the inn we enjoy a 1528 and is now the home of the 10th short boat trip along the canal on Duke of Buccleuch and his family. The board ‘Indian Chief’ to Bilsworth collection here is staggering – arts, Tunnel mouth and return. In the rare furniture, porcelain, weaponry afternoon we continue to Althorp for and textiles. In 2012 the house hosted our included visit. Here we have a the cast and crew of Oscar winning guided tour of the State Rooms and film ‘Les Miserables’ and was featured also have time to reflect by the in several scenes. peaceful Round Oval Lake, last resting u We head for Wansford and the Nene place of Diana, Princess of Wales.

Valley Railway. We enjoy a return trip

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

THURSDAY 2ND JUNE

5

£369

£80.00

BEST WESTERN ROCKINGHAM FOREST HOTEL HHH The Rockingham Forest Hotel is on the edge of the pretty village of Rockingham with the magnificent Rockingham Castle nearby. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and are equipped with TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Sorry No Lift, however, bedrooms are located on the ground & first floor only.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Easter nd Surprising Shires of Middle Engla Join us on this lovely short break for Easter where our base is just outside the pretty Northamptonshire village of Rockingham. We enjoy a visit to a garden; a castle; relax with a water cruise and a train ride. With some of the most beautiful countryside in England, Northamptonshire & Rutland is a joy to visit.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Oakham & Barnsdale Gardens u Rutland Water Cruise u Nene Valley Railway & Peterborough u Rockingham Castle u Hotel Entertainment on one evening

u We head for the County town of Rutland, Oakham with its stylish boutiques and exclusive little gift shops. After spending some free time here we continue along the edge of Rutland Water to visit Barnsdale Gardens, familiar to many TV viewers as home of Gardener’s World. The gardens comprise 37 individual gardens and features all blended together with borders into one eight acres garden. After this visit we return to Rutland Water where we enjoy a relaxing cruise on the ‘Rutland Belle’ to round off our day. u We enjoy a ride on the Nene Valley Railway to Peterborough. We then enjoy some free time in Peterborough

where we have time to explore the city with its magnificent cathedral. In the afternoon we return to Rockingham for a visit to the impressive Castle.

Built by William the Conqueror, Rockingham has been a Royal Fortress and much loved family home for 450 years.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

FRIDAY 25TH MARCH

4

£279

£18.00

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

29

ENGLAND

u Althorp Estate u Nene Valley Railway u Boughton House u Grand Union Canal Trip u Castle Ashby Gardens

BEST WESTERN ROCKINGHAM FOREST HOTEL HHH

NEW TOUR

For hotel details please refer to page 29 Drawing Room formed from a Medieval Chapel, the Dining Room u On our outward journey we head for with its large Gothic windows as well Lichfield, where we make a stop enas the stunning gardens and more. route to Rockingham. u Our coach takes us to the picturesque u We spend the morning in Stamford – town of Market Harborough where we one of the finest stone towns of have time to explore before making England with its narrow alleyways our way to Foxton Locks surrounded and hidden courtyards which are by beautiful countryside, a unique home to speciality shops, fine jewellers waterway with colourful narrowboats and designer boutiques. In the and a flight of 10 locks. In the afternoon we make our way to afternoon we make our way to Burghley House – the ancestral home Cottesbrooke Hall for our included of William Cecil. This palatial visit to the Hall & Gardens. The Hall is Elizabethan prodigy house is still a a much loved family home of the much loved family home surrounded MacDonald-Buchanan family and is

by Capability Brown parkland. lived in everyday. There is excellent u We head to Oakham, a pretty & 18th century English and French traditional English Market Town and furniture, fine porcelain, and a superb the County town of Rutland. After collection of sporting art. The spending the morning here we head remarkable 18th century landscaping around Rutland Water and make our of the Park, its vistas and lakes are by way Elton Hall for our included visit to an unknown hand and much has been the Hall & the gardens. Elton Hall lies restored. at the heart of a 3,800 acre Estate and is a romanic, part Gothic house which u Our return journey includes a stop in Melton Mowbray before continuing has been in the Proby family since the journey home.

1660. See the Marble Hall, the

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Riches & Grandeur of Middle England

Incl: Cottesbrooke Hall, Burghley House & Elton Hall

A great new tour for 2016 which includes two visits that have never been included in any of our itineraries before! We visit Cottesbrooke Hall & Gardens – Cottesbrooke is a wonderful Queen Anne house dating from 1702, set in delightful award-winning gardens. Elton Hall, which stands in the midst of unspoilt landscaped parkland is a fascinating mix of styles surrounded by stunning gardens.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

ENGLAND

u Admission to Burghley House & Gardens u Admission to Elton Hall & Gardens u Admission to Cottesbrooke Hall & Gardens u Pretty towns of Oakham & Stamford u Picturesque Town of Market Harborough u Foxton Locks

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 27TH JUNE

5

£289

NIL

KETTERING PARK HOTEL & SPA HHHH Located in the Heart of England, this premier 4 star hotel is thoughtfully furnished to create a relaxing environment. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and have air-conditioning; room fridge with fresh milk; iron, ironing board & trouser press; TV and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar, lounge; terrace garden and superb leisure facilities with indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room & jacuzzi. Lift.

ITINERARY

Discovering Rutland & The Vale of Belvoir

We take in some of the spectacular scenery of the Rutland area including visits to the delightful towns of Oakham & Stamford.

Oakham is a pretty, traditional market town and is the County Town of Rutland. Stamford is one of the finest stone towns of England. We also visit Melton Mowbray famous for its Pork Pies & Stilton Cheese as well as taking a tour of Belvoir Brewery.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Brewery Tour & Tasting at Belvoir Brewery u Pretty, Traditional Market Towns of Oakham & Stamford u Quintessential Market Town of Melton Mowbray u National Memorial Arboretum

30

High Street has a great choice of u Sunday: independent and recognised retailers.

On the outward journey we enjoy our u Tuesday: journey making a stop in Lichfield for Today we head for Melton Mowbray, a some free time. From here we continue quintessential English market town. our journey to the hotel.

Today is market day and we have u Monday: some free time to explore – don’t This morning we make our way to forget to visit Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe!

Oakham, a pretty, traditional English In the afternoon we make our way to Market Town and the County Town of Belvoir Brewery in time for our tour & Rutland. In the afternoon we make our tasting. way past Rutland Water to Stamford, u Wednesday: one of the finest stone towns of Following breakfast we leave the hotel England with its narrow alleyways and commence our journey home and hidden courtyards which are making a stop en-route at the home to speciality shops, fine jewellers National Memorial Arboretum. and designer boutiques, whilst the DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

SUNDAY 4TH SEPTEMBER

4

£259

£45.00

www.ellensmith.co.uk

MENZIES STOURPORT MANOR HOTEL HHHH

NEW TOUR

The Menzies Stourport Manor Hotel near Kidderminster stands in 23 acres of grounds overlooking the historic Georgian riverside town of Stourport-Upon-Severn in Worcestershire. Blending an idyllic setting with contemporary décor, this Stourport hotel offers the perfect location for our tour. Relax in the stylishly furnished rooms or unwind in the Waves Leisure & Health Club with its heated indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room. All bedrooms are en-suite and have TV with freeview, telephone and tea/coffee making facilities.

Sorry No Lift, but the hotel does have some ground floor bedrooms.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Worcester Wonders A new tour for 2016 as we head to the beautiful cathedral city of Worcester – home of the world’s oldest newspaper, Berrow’s Journal, exquisite Royal Worcester porcelain and piquant Worcestershire Sauce, the city offers an excellent range of shopping and culture. We also take a train ride, enjoy a steamer cruise and visit the West Midlands Safari Park.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

SUNDAY 3RD APRIL

5

£319

£68.00

BUCKATREE HALL HOTEL HHH This 3 star hotel is a renowned comfortable country house with its own mature gardens and private lake. All of the bedrooms are en-suite with television and tea/coffee making facilities and many of them enjoy scenic views of the hotels own lake & gardens. The hotel offers a restaurant, lounge & bar. Lift, doesn’t serve all floors.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Discovering Shropshire Along the upper reaches of the River Severn and the borders between England & Wales, the countryside of Shropshire shelters some of the most beautiful landscapes and unspoilt towns that you can imagine.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Severn Valley Railway u Blists Hill Victorian Village u Much Wenlock u Shrewsbury u Ludlow u 2 nights Entertainment at the hotel

u We head for Shrewsbury, arguably the u It’s full steam ahead for an finest Tudor town in England, with its unforgettable and classic rail journey timber-framed black & white buildings on the Severn Valley Railway between amongst narrow alleyways Kidderminster and Bridgnorth. Upon surrounded by the River Severn. In the arrival in Bridgnorth, there will be afternoon we continue to the market some free time to explore this ‘twin town of Ludlow, often referred to as the town’ linked by its own remarkable perfect historic town, with over 500 Cliff Railway. We re-join our coach listed buildings and a castle at its heart. and make our way to Much Wenlock, a medieval town with close ties to the modern Olympics and home to the remains of a 12th Century Priory. u The spectacular Ironbridge Gorge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and we enjoy an absorbing day visiting Blists Hill, an open air museum, where townsfolk in traditional dress re-enact life in an authentic Victorian community.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 18TH JULY

5

£349

£60.00

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

31

ENGLAND

u Cream Tea on Arrival at hotel u Complimentary Glass of Wine with Dinner on 1st Evening u Single Journey on the Severn Valley Railway u Admission to West Midlands Safari Park u Stourport Steamer Cruise with Cream Tea

combines quintessential English u We make the journey to Kidderminster charm with modern convenience. in time for our single journey on the Following some free time here we Severn Valley Railway to Bridgnorth. return to Stourport for our Cruise We enjoy some free time in along the River Severn. On board we Bridgnorth, once a thriving port, which enjoy a traditional Cream Tea whilst is just a short walk from the station. In cruising along through the changing the afternoon, we re-join our coach scenery on this 40 minute cruise. and make the journey to the West Midlands Safari Park, for our included u We head for the nearby Georgian town of Bewdley which sits directly on the visit. Here we meet some of the River Severn. Visit the Bewdley Museum fastest, tallest, largest and cutest (free entrance) or explore the shops. animals around. Following our free From here we continue to bustling time here we make the return to the Bromsgrove with its rich architectural hotel. heritage, while here why not visit the u We travel to the beautiful Cathedral Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings City of Worcester, which sits on the (entry approx. £7.00 per person). We then banks of the River Severn. Packed with return to the hotel. heritage, this vibrant compact centre

BEST WESTERN BROOK HOTEL, NORWICH HHH This 3 star standard hotel is located on the outskirts to the west of the city of Norwich. All bedrooms are en-suite and have television, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a restaurant and bar. Sorry No Lift, but some ground floor bedrooms may be available.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Cathedral City of Norwich u Cromer u ‘The Poppy Line’ u Wells-Next-The Sea u Little Walsingham

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Easter Norfolk City, Coast & Country

ENGLAND

Norwich is one of the loveliest cities in the country; with its beautiful Cathedral, and the cobbled Elm Hill. On this weekend break we visit Norfolk’s stunning coast, some of the delightful countryside and a historic village.

u We head into Norwich where the day is free for you to explore this delightful city. A visit to the cathedral is a must, also the Norman Castle and cobbled Elm Hill or you may fancy a boat trip on the River Wensum. Norwich has an excellent selection of shops to keep you busy. We return to the hotel late afternoon. u We travel to the resort of Cromer, on the north coast of Norfolk where we enjoy some free time. Later we enjoy a steam train ride on the Poppy Line

prior to spending some free time at the coastal town of Wells-next-theSea. In the afternoon we make our way to Little Walsingham. Few villages in the country can compare with this gem set amidst parks and woodlands.

The main High Street is an architectural treasure, completely medieval, with red brick and timber framed houses, whitewashed fronts and red pantiled roofs, as well as a number of quaint tea rooms.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

FRIDAY 25TH MARCH

4

£279

NIL

THE LINKS COUNTRY PARK HOTEL HHH Set in 35 acres of wooded parkland, the Links Country Park Hotel features an impressive golf course and is approximately 3 miles from Cromer beach. The magnificent period building is rich in traditional charm. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and are equipped with TV, telephone, complimentary WiFi and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar, snack bar and indoor swimming pool. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Royal Norfolk & The Broads Norfolk, on the mid-east coast of England, is a great holiday destination. Add a Royal residence and a cruise on The Broads as well as a lovely train journey and you have all the ingredients for a perfect escape!

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Cruise on The Broads u Steam Train Journey on the Bure Valley Railway u Wroxham Barns u Admission to Sandringham House & Gardens u Cathedral City of Norwich

32

u We travel to Aylsham for our nostalgic journey on the Bure Valley Railway. We travel by Steam Train through picturesque countryside to Wroxham.

We make the short walk from the station to meet our boat for our 90 minute Broads cruise. Following the cruise we make the short journey to Wroxham Barns, a leisure & shopping complex with boutiques and craft studios. u We spend a full day in Norwich, a city where an unrivalled collection of heritage landmarks, spanning 1,000 years of history, blends beautifully with striking 21st century architecture.

u We enjoy an excursion which takes us to Sandringham, much loved country retreat of Her Majesty The Queen. The house, set in 24 hectares of stunning gardens, is perhaps the most famous stately home in Norfolk and has been the private home of four generations of British monarchs. Sandringham is a friendly and informal place to visit, with knowledgeable guides in every room of the house and acres of beautiful gardens to explore, while the museum houses extraordinary collections of Royal vehicles, rare ceramics, photographs and memorabilia.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

SUNDAY 12TH JUNE

5

£349

NIL

www.ellensmith.co.uk

BEST WESTERN BROOK HOTEL, NORWICH HHH This 3 star standard hotel is located on the outskirts to the west of the city of Norwich. All bedrooms are en-suite and have television, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities.

The hotel offers a restaurant and bar. Sorry No Lift, but some ground floor bedrooms may be available.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Norfolk Seals, Coast & City For this tour we have chosen a nice mix of excursions, ranging from a delightful boat trip to see the seals; a unique paddle steamer cruise; the city of Norwich and a visit to the popular seaside resort of Great Yarmouth.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 22ND AUGUST

5

£339

NIL

BURLINGTON PALM HOTEL, GREAT YARMOUTH HHH This family owned 3 star hotel stands in a quiet location on Great Yarmouth seafront overlooking the sea. All of the bedrooms are pleasantly decorated, are en-suite and are equipped with TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. The hotel also has an indoor swimming pool as well as a good range of seating areas and two bars. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Great Yarmouth & Davenport’s Magic Kingdom A holiday of many contrasts, from the hustle and bustle of a busy seaside resort, to the relaxing calm of the Broads, to the historic City of Norwich and also the quieter resorts and towns of the region. Something for everyone.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Norfolk’s Premier Seaside Resort u Cathedral City of Norwich u Norfolk Broads Cruise u Somerleyton Hall u Lowestoft u Timeless Southwold u Bressingham Gardens u North Walsham – Market Day u Davenport’s Magic Kingdom

memorabilia in Europe, exploring the u We visit Wroxham and enjoy a cruise mysteries of 500 years of magical on the charming Norfolk Broads. In entertainment. the afternoon we head into the u We drive south to Oulton Broad and Cathedral City of Norwich for some Lowestoft, where we have free time. free time.

From here we make our way to u We head to the coast to the timeless Somerleyton Hall & Gardens. An early resort of Southwold in the morning Victorian Mansion with Jacobean where we have chance to explore. In origins set in 400 acres of wooded the afternoon we head to Diss and the park with 12 acres of gardens.

Blooms of Bressingham Garden Centre. We visit Bressingham Gardens and Steam Museum. u We make our way to North Walsham for Market Day, where we have chance to explore. In the afternoon we visit Davenport’s Magic Kingdom – an interactive experience showcases the largest collection of magic DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

SUNDAY 7TH AUGUST

7

£499

NIL

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

33

ENGLAND

u Blakeney & The Seal Colonies Boat Trip u Norfolk Broads Paddle Steamer Cruise u Great Yarmouth u City of Norwich u Holt and Wells-next-the-Sea u Little Walsingham

u We make our way to the City of Norwich where we have the morning free to explore. The Cathedral is well worth a visit as is the cobbled Elm Hill.

In the afternoon we make the drive to Horning where we join the Mississippi Paddle Steamer ‘Southern Comfort’ for a delightful sail around the Norfolk Broads. u A day at the seaside as we head for Great Yarmouth, Norfolk’s best loved holiday resort. We spend the day here to relax and watch the world go by, enjoy a walk along the seafront or explore the town.

u We drive through rural Norfolk countryside as we head to the delightful town of Holt, an old fashioned Georgian town of impeccable colour-washed houses, antiques and picture galleries.

Following some free time here we make our way to Blakeney on the coast, famous for its seal colonies.

Whilst here we join the boat at Morston Quay for a 1 hour trip to Blakeney Point and the seal colonies.

Later in the day we continue to Wellsnext-the-Sea before making our way to Little Walsingham, where the main High Street is an architectural treasure.

THE WYNDHAM GARDEN GRANTHAM HOTEL, NR. MARSTON HHH AA This 3 star standard hotel is a delightful tranquil retreat set in beautiful Lincolnshire countryside near the village of Marston, not far from Grantham. The hotel prides itself on the quality of its food and hotel facilities include Health Club & Spa with indoor swimming pool, sauna & spa. All the bedrooms are en-suite and have colour TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel also offers a Restaurant & Bar. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Discovering Lincolnshire A lovely tour exploring the rural county of Lincolnshire with visits to Belton House ~ the perfect English country house featured in BBC’s TV adaptation of Pride & Prejudice, the birthplace of Sir Isaac Newton – Woolsthorpe Manor and Historic Stamford. We also enjoy a guided tour of Lincoln as well as a guided tour of the magnificent Medieval Lincoln Cathedral.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

ENGLAND

u Lincoln Cathedral Guided Tour u Guided Tour of Lincoln u Springfield’s Garden Centre, Spalding u Belton House u Historic Stamford u Woolsthorpe Manor

u We begin with a drive to Spalding.

Here we visit Springfields Garden Centre with time to explore. In the afternoon we visit Belton House, near Grantham. The perfect English country house is set in its own deer park and was built in the 17th century. The house featured in the BBC’s TV adaptation of Pride & Prejudice, starring Colin Firth.

u We drive to the historic City of Lincoln with its magnificent Cathedral and next to it the Norman Castle. We meet our guide for a guided coach tour of the city and later in the day we enjoy a guided tour of the Cathedral. u We visit Stamford Garden Centre at Casterton where there is time to browse around before we make our way to the beautiful town of Stamford, packed full of art and craft shops. In the afternoon we visit Woolsthorpe Manor, with the famous apple tree, and birthplace of Sir Isaac Newton, who made most of his discoveries here about light and gravity.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 4TH JULY

5

£309

NIL

LINDUM HOTEL HH A popular hotel located on the seafront opposite an attractive promenade and five minutes walk from the elegant Edwardian Town Centre of St. Annes. All the bedrooms have private facilities with colour TV, direct-dial telephone and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Lounge Bar with magnificent sea views, Restaurant, Games Room, Sauna, Solarium & Jacuzzi. Lift.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Seaside Resort of Morecambe u Classic Seaside Resort of Southport u Charming Edwardian Grange-over-Sands

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

u We enjoy a scenic excursion as we travel first of all to Morecambe, where we enjoy some free time before travelling to the charming Edwardian resort of Grange-over-Sands.

u We enjoy an excursion which takes us to the classic seaside resort of Southport.

St. Annes-on-Sea St. Annes-on-Sea, on the Fylde coast, offers a gentle and peaceful way of life. Its Victorian bandstand and quality accommodation reflect the ambience of a more traditional seaside resort.

34

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 25TH APRIL

5

NIL

MONDAY 30TH MAY

5

MONDAY 5TH DECEMBER

5

£299 £309 £299

The December Tour has a ‘Turkey & Tinsel’ theme Sea View Supplement: £22.00 per person

www.ellensmith.co.uk

NIL NIL

THE DORIC HOTEL – VISIT BRITAIN HHH

Blackpool

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS February, March, May & July: There will be One Full Day and One Half Day Excursion included. These will be operated by The Doric Hotel and although these are included in the cost of the holiday below, please ensure that you register your name with the Hotel Reception staff upon arrival at the hotel.

Illumination Period: There will be One Full Day Excursion and an Evening Excursion through the lights – again both included in the cost & operated by The Doric Hotel and names need to be registered upon arrival at the hotel.

Turkey & Tinsel Tour: Due to the Full Programme at the hotel there will be no day excursions included on this tour.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED November ‘Turkey & Tinsel’ to On the Outward Journey: u After being picked up from home and include: u Bubbly Reception; An Afternoon Tea joining our coach there will be a stop Dance; Sing-a-long Bingo; Christmas en-route to Blackpool.

Banquet Night; Visit from Santa.

February/March/May/July: On the Return Journey: u ½ Day and 1 Full Day Excursions. u Our coach will arrive at the hotel in September & October Excursions: time for a 10:30am departure and we u ½ Day – Evening Drive through make the journey straight home.

Illuminations and 1 Full Day Excursion.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 1ST FEBRUARY

5

NIL

MONDAY 7TH MARCH

5

£159 £159 £229 £279 £259 £259 £239

MONDAY 2ND MAY

5

SUNDAY 17TH JULY

6

MONDAY 26TH SEPTEMBER

5

MONDAY 24TH OCTOBER

5

MONDAY 21ST NOVEMBER

5

NIL NIL NIL NIL NIL NIL

The September & October Tours are during the Illumination Period The November Tour has a ‘Turkey & Tinsel’ theme at the hotel Please Note: Our coach & driver do not stay in resort with you on these tours.

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

35

ENGLAND

A holiday in Blackpool will leave you feeling refreshed, relaxed and recharged - even if you're on the go 25 hours a day! Perhaps it's the resort's infectious zest for life. Or maybe it's just that, uniquely, whatever your routine Blackpool can offer a perfect break from it.

Situated on the Queen’s Promenade, with breathtaking views over the Irish Sea, Morecambe Bay and Isle of Man. All the bedrooms have private facilities with colour TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Bar, Lounge, Cumberland Lounge/Bar, Indoor & Outdoor Swimming Pools and Entertainment. Lift.

Scarborough

ENGLAND

Scarborough enjoys an unrivalled position as one of Britain’s premier coastal resorts yet also lies tantalisingly close to North Yorkshire’s rugged National Park. On this holiday you can enjoy the golden beaches, superb parks and gardens and a wide range of leisure amenities which have given Scarborough its justifiable reputation, as well as the natural beauty and historical heritage of Yorkshire.

THE ESPLANADE HOTEL, SCARBOROUGH HHH The AA/RAC 3 Star Esplanade Hotel enjoys a commanding position on Scarborough’s South Cliff, yet is just a short walk from the beach, the Spa and the town centre. Bedrooms are all en suite with TV and tea/coffee making facilities. Lift.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u North Yorkshire Moors u Free Time in Whitby u Historic Walled City of York u Free Day in Scarborough u The July Tour also includes a visit to Filey and admission to Scampston Walled Garden with an included Clotted Cream Tea

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

u We make our way by coach over the North Yorkshire Moors to Whitby where the rest of the day is at leisure for you to explore this stunning seaside town with its ancient abbey. u We enjoy an excursion which takes us to the Historic Walled City of York, where we have time to explore. u On the July tour we also include a visit to the seaside resort of Filey. In the afternoon we head towards Malton where we visit Scampston Walled Garden. The award-winning

36

contemporary Walled Garden is a lovely treat to visit. Explore the nine separate and contrasting areas to find many unusual plants along the way; the 19th century conservatory and take in the historic gardens around the Hall (admission to the Hall is not included) and Capability Brown’s Palladian Bridge, lakes & Parkland.

While here we also include a Clotted Cream Tea which includes: tea/coffee and a homemade scone served with clotted cream & locally made jam.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

THURSDAY 12TH MAY

5

NIL

SUNDAY 31ST JULY

6

£299 £389

www.ellensmith.co.uk

NIL

MERCURE ROYAL HOTEL, HULL HHH Once a ‘railway hotel’ in Victorian times the Mercure Royal Hotel has been lovingly modernised. All bedrooms are en-suite and have flat screen TV, telephone and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a restaurant and lounge bar. Lift.

ITINERARY

Yorkshire Snowdrops Every February, millions of hardy snowdrops create a magnificent carpet across the woodland floor at Burton Agnes Hall creating a beautiful display. Join us on our tour to enjoy these early signs of spring.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

FRIDAY 26TH FEBRUARY

3

£149

£30.00

HOLIDAY INN, YORK HHH The award-winning Holiday Inn York is located next to York Racecourse, just 2 miles from the City centre. Set in leafy grounds the hotel offers peaceful guest rooms that are all en-suite and have heating and airconditioning, satellite TV and tea/coffee makers. Lift.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Spa Town of Harrogate u Historic Walled City of York u ‘Little Hollywood’ ~ Holmfirth

ITINERARY

York Winter Weekend A short weekend break that offers a change of scenery & a getaway from all those household chores! We visit the Victorian splendour of Harrogate and enjoy some free time in the beautiful historic walled city of York.

u Friday: After being picked up from home we enjoy our outward journey making a stop in the lovely Spa Town of Harrogate. With Victorian splendour, gardens, shops & restaurants, there’s plenty to keep you busy. After spending some time here we continue our journey to our hotel. u Saturday: Today our coach takes us to the historic walled city of York with its vast array of attractions, museums,

historic buildings, shops, restaurants and bars, there’s plenty for everyone.

We return to the hotel later in the day. u Sunday: We leave the hotel this morning and make our way to Holmfirth, where we spend some free time, prior to continuing our journey home.

© C L T Smith

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

FRIDAY 11TH MARCH

3

£159

£30.00

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

37

ENGLAND

u Sheffield Botanical Gardens u Market Town of Beverley u Admission to Burton Agnes Gardens for the Snowdrop Spectacular u Admission to Wentworth Castle Gardens

u Sunday: u Friday: We leave the hotel and make our way After being picked up from home we to Wentworth Castle for a visit of the enjoy the outward journey as we make historic 60 acre gardens. Recommended our way to Sheffield with a visit to areas to visit at this time of year are Sheffield Botanical Gardens. The the Middle Garden and Lady Lucy’s gardens cover 19 acres and were first Shrubbery. Following this visit we opened in 1936. Following some free continue our journey home. time here we continue our journey to Hull and on to the hotel. u Saturday: An excursion which takes us first of all to Beverley, a town famous for its 13th century Minster. In the afternoon we continue to Burton Agnes Gardens for the Snowdrop Spectacular. The award-winning gardens are beautiful at any time of year but in February the highlight is the blanket of snowdrops on the woodland walk.

NEW HOTEL

© www.visitnorthumberland.com

Northumberland & The North East ENGLAND

Northumberland and the North East has some of the most picturesque scenery in the country with its contrasting countryside, historic towns and rugged coastlines. A great place to relax and refuel!

LITTLE HAVEN HOTEL, SOUTH SHIELDS HHH This 3 star hotel is uniquely situated in South Shields at the gateway of the River Tyne and boasts extensive views of the Tyne and Little Haven Beach. All of the stylish bedrooms are en-suite and are equipped with Flat Screen TV with Freeview & DVD player; hairdryer; trouser press; ironing board; safe and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a restaurant and lounge bar. Lift.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

The April Tour Includes: u Cathedral City of Durham u Elegant Village of Cleadon u Admission to Cragside House & Gardens u Rothbury ~ the Capital of Coquetdale u Admission to Bamburgh Castle u Harbour Village of Amble

The July Tour Includes: u Admission to Alnwick Castle u Admission to Alnwick Gardens u Tynemouth u Whitley Bay u Hartlepool Maritime Experience u Cathedral City of Durham

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

of the largest rock gardens in Europe.

Excursions Included for April:Following this visit we make the short u W enjoy a morning drive to the village journey into the village of Rothbury, of Cleadon known for its elegance, known locally as the Capital of countryside views & beauty with a Coquetdale, and offers an excellent range of unique and independent range of shops, art galleries, tea shops. After spending some free time rooms, cafes and pubs. here we continue to the beautiful u We visit beautiful Bamburgh Castle, Cathedral City of Durham, where we the Royal Seat of the Kings of have chance to explore.

Northumbria, where you can u We make our way to the National experience the sights, stories and Trust’s Cragside for our included visit atmosphere of over 2,000 years of to the House & Gardens. An exhilarating history. Bamburgh is one extraordinary Victorian house owned of the largest inhabited castles in the by the Victorian Inventor, Lord country. Following this visit we make Armstrong, it was the first house in the our way to Amble, with its awardworld to be lit by hydroelectricity and winning marina, good shops, pubs and is crammed full of ingenious gadgets – promenade. most of them still working. The gardens here are incredible with one

Following this visit we continue to the Excursions Included for July:Cathedral City of Durham for some u We head north to visit Alnwick Castle, free time. home to the Percy family for over 700 u We visit the seaside town of Whitley years. The castle is steeped in history Bay where we enjoy some free time. and filled with tales of warfare, From here we continue to Tynemouth, romance & chivalry and was also the with its Priory & Castle overlooking filming location as the magnificent the Pier.

Brancaster Castle in ‘Downton Abbey’ and Hogwarts School of Witchcraft in ‘Harry Potter’ films. Following this visit we make our way to The Alnwick Garden for our included visit. Here you can explore acres of fascinating plants, water sculptures, the infamous Poison Garden and one of the world’s largest wooden treehouses. u We enjoy the journey to the Hartlepool Maritime Experience, a superb recreation of an 18th century seaport, which brings to life the time of Nelson, Napoleon and the Battle of Trafalgar.

38

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 18TH APRIL

5

£60.00

MONDAY 4TH JULY

5

£319 £339

www.ellensmith.co.uk

£60.00

GILSLAND HALL HOTEL HHHH GUEST ACCOMMODATION Formerly known as The Gilsland Spa Hotel, this has been a popular hotel with Ellen Smith passengers. Situated in 140 acres of park & woodland, the hotel has spectacular views over the Cumbrian countryside. All bedrooms are en-suite and have TV and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Bar, Lounge and Ballroom. Lift – does not serve all bedrooms.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Cumbria, Northumbria & The Scottish Borders rmer’ Includes: A Gilsland ‘Winter Wa

We return to the beautifully located Gilsland Hall Hotel, lying almost under the shadows of Hadrian’s Wall.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

house with lots of history, beautiful furniture, paintings and treasured collections. The jewel in the garden though has to be the beautiful walled garden – with its unusual shape. u We enjoy a day exploring the County Town of Cumbria, Carlisle. Here you can take time to visit the cathedral, visit the castle, one of the museums or maybe enjoy some retail therapy. u An excursion which takes us to the Scottish Borders, where we take time to visit Gretna Green as well as Dumfries, with its connections to Robert Burns.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

THEME

MONDAY 1ST FEBRUARY

5

Winter Warmer

5

MONDAY 22ND AUGUST

5

MONDAY 28TH NOVEMBER

5

£209 £319 £339 £319

£20.00

MONDAY 2ND MAY

£20.00 £20.00 £20.00

Turkey & Tinsel

THE CHESTERHOUSE HOTEL, DOUGLAS HHH The Chesterhouse Hotel is ideally situated on the sea front and is within a short walk of Douglas and all of its amenities. All the bedrooms have private facilities with colour TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers the Shiraz Restaurant with panoramic views over Douglas Bay and the Old Bailey Bar situated on the lower ground floor. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

The Beautiful Isle of Man This beautiful island, 32 miles long and 14 miles wide, lies in the Irish sea, approximately equidistant from Britain and Ireland. It is dominated by Snaefell Mountain, rising to over 2000ft. The island is well away from it all yet so close to home and it’s where the life is simple and undemanding, the pace easy and relaxed, a fabulous destination to enjoy that well deserving break.

u We head north to Laxey to visit “Lady Isabella”, the world’s largest working waterwheel. From here we continue to the station in time to board the Snaefell Mountain Railway for our return journey. The train will transport you to the summit of the island’s only mountain where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Seven Kingdom – England, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, the Isle of Man and the kingdoms of heaven and the sea.

Following this journey we then continue to Ramsey, the main town in the north of the island. Here we have

free time to explore before returning to the hotel. u We enjoy a morning free in Douglas. In the afternoon we head to the pleasant little town of Peel, with its impressive castle and harbour. u We begin with a visit to Castletown, a historic town and the ancient capital of the island with a beautifully preserved castle. We then travel along the island’s south coast to Cregneash Village Folk Museum for our included visit. On our return to the hotel we make a stop in the lovely village of Port Erin.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Heysham – Douglas, return Steam Packet Ferry u Entry to the Laxey Wheel u Ride on the Snaefell Mountain Railway u Entry to Cregneash Village

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

TUESDAY 26TH JULY

5

£399

£40.00

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

39

ENGLAND

u The February tour has a Winter Warmer Package with a drinks promotion each evening u Lovely Market Town of Hexham u February & November Tours include: Pretty Village of Corbridge u May & August Tours include a visit to Wallington Estate u Carlisle ~ the County Town of Cumbria u Gretna Green & Dumfries

u On Tuesday: We make our way to the pretty market town of Hexham where we spend some free time. On the February & November tours after this visit we continue to the pretty village of Corbridge for time at leisure before returning to the hotel.

On the May & August tours following our visit to Hexham we continue to Wallington Estate for our included visit. Wallington is an estate where politics and play came together in the heart of Northumberland and the much-loved home to generations of the unconventional Trevelyan family. An impressive, yet friendly

MATURE SINGLES HOLIDAYS A range of holidays designed with the single traveller in mind with single rooms galore!

We have now been operating our ‘Mature Singles’ range for a number of years with all of our single passengers in mind. On all of these tours all rooms we have on allocation at the hotels are for sole occupancy and what’s more – there is NO single supplement to pay. All of these tours offer value for money and it’s a great way to meet new friends or catch up with old ones. We even include our ‘Door to Door’ service – so there is no waiting out in the cold or wet weather.

QUEENS HOTEL, PENZANCE HHH A 3 star standard family run hotel located on the promenade in Penzance. All of the bedrooms are tastefully decorated with en-suite facilities and are equipped with TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a restaurant, a traditional pub style bar and lounges. Lift.

‘Mature Singles’

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Cornwall

M AT U R E S I N G L E S

For this tour we are based in West Cornwall, where the heathland covers the granite outcrops and the area is scattered with remnants of an incredibly ancient heritage.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Welcome drink of tea/coffee on arrival u Entertainment each evening u 50% Off - Drink promotion between 6pm – 8pm on selected brands u Harbour Village of Mousehole u Lands End u St. Ives

u We visit the quaint harbour village of Mousehole, with its picturesque harbour, narrow streets and yellow lichened houses, which huddle together creating a stunning location.

After spending some free time here we continue to Land’s End, Britain’s most south-westerly point. From the 200 foot high granite cliffs that rise out of

the Atlantic Ocean you can gaze across to the Longships Lighthouse, the Isles of Scilly and beyond. u A visit to beautiful St. Ives, once a fishing port and now known for its thriving art community. St. Ives has been attracting artists for decades, with its undeniable natural beauty.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 14TH MARCH

5

£269

NIL

GRETNA HALL HOTEL HHH Nestling in ten acres of landscaped ground and situated midway between the Borders Region and Scotland’s southwest, the 3 star standard Gretna Hall Hotel is located in the centre of Gretna Green. All bedrooms are en-suite and have TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Some Entertainment. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

‘Mature Singles’

Lake District & Scottish Borders Fall under the spell of the beauty and enthralling history of the Scottish Borders, a region with a fascinating and colourful past.

We also take time to visit Threave House & Gardens, Keswick in the Lake District and we include a cruise on Ullswater.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Cruise with Ullswater Steamers u Keswick u Hawick u Jedburgh u Dumfries u Admission to Threave House & Gardens

40

our coach here and make our way to u We make our way to Hawick, the Keswick, a pretty market town which largest of the Border Towns, frequent offers a wide range of attractions for winner of national floral awards and visitors from shops and restaurants to internationally famous for fine quality museums with a difference. knitwear. After spending some free u An excursion which takes us to time here we continue to the historic Dumfries, ‘Queen of the South’, a royal burgh of Jedburgh, an attractive historic county town famed for its town which up to the 17th century its connection with Scotland’s National position as a frontier town placed it in Bard, Robert Burns. Following some the midst of national battles and free time here we make our way to cross-border raids.

Threave House & Gardens for our u We enjoy a visit to the Lake District included visit. With its world-famous where we include a cruise on Ullswater. gardens, Victorian country house it We make our way to Glenridding makes for a spectacular place to visit. where we join the boat for the single journey to Pooley Bridge. We re-join DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 11TH APRIL

5

£329

NIL

www.ellensmith.co.uk

STRATHALLAN HOTEL HHHH A stylish & contemporary 4 star hotel located in Edgbaston which is an ideal location for our tour. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and are equipped with flatscreen TV with freeview; free Wifi; telephone and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a restaurant and lounge bar. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

© Black Country Living Museu

m

‘Mature Singles’

Heart of England & The Cotswold

s

A great tour for this time of year as we enjoy some time spent at The Black Country Living Museum; visits to the lovely towns of Upton-upon-Severn, Malvern and some of the delightful Cotswolds villages.

cupola in place of a spire. After spending some free time here we continue to the largely Victorian town of Great Malvern with its beautiful Abbey, Priory, stunning views of the Severn Valley and unspoilt beauty. u A day exploring The Cotswolds as we first make our way to Bourton-onthe-Water, regularly voted as one of the prettiest villages in England and known as ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’. We then make our way to Stow-on-theWold, a delightful market town and the highest of the Cotswold towns.

Around the Market Square is an elegant array of Cotswold town houses and shops. After spending some time here we call in at Broadway, often referred to as ‘the jewel of the Cotswolds’.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY

5

£329

NIL

IVY BUSH ROYAL HOTEL, CARMARTHEN HHH This 3 star standard hotel is within walking distance of Carmarthen town centre and was once a favourite retreat for Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton.

Sympathetically modernised, the hotel retains its old world charm blended with modern day facilities. All the bedrooms are en-suite and have television, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

‘Mature Singles’ A Welsh Castle & Gardens Our tour takes us to Carmarthenshire and includes a visit to a castle & gardens, the lovely seaside resort of Tenby, the National Botanic Gardens of Wales – a fabulous tour for this time of year.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Enchanting Picton Castle & Gardens u Coastal Resort of Tenby u National Botanic Garden of Wales u Beautiful Aberglasney Gardens u A Free Morning in Carmarthen

u We enjoy an excursion which takes us to enchanting Picton Castle, which is a half fortified manor house and half medieval castle set in 40 acres of stunning gardens and one of Pembrokeshire’s finest stately homes.

Following this visit we make our way to the seaside resort of Tenby where we spend the rest of the day at leisure. u We make our way to the National Botanic Garden of Wales. Spread over 568 acres of Carmarthenshire countryside, the gardens include a nature reserve and a formal garden with Lord Foster’s Great Glasshouse as its centrepiece. u On Wednesday: We spend the morning at leisure in Carmarthen,

giving time to explore. In the afternoon we make the short journey to Aberglasney House & Gardens, set in the beautiful Tywi Valley. The gardens here comprise of a mystical and enigmatic cloister garden populated with semi-tropical evergreens, a Jacobean pool garden, steam garden, pigeon house wood and so much more.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

SUNDAY 24TH JULY

5

£349

NIL

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

41

M AT U R E S I N G L E S

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Admission to The Black Country Living Museum u Upton-upon-Severn u Malvern u Bourton-on-the-Water u Stow-on-the-Wold u Broadway

u We enjoy our day as we make our way towards Dudley and on to The Black Country Living Museum. The Museum is one of the largest open air museums in the UK and is dedicated to revealing – over 26 acres – how the Black Country was the first industrial landscape to be created anywhere in the world. It has its own village, with period-dressed, charismatic residents, a vintage tram or bus to transport you round as well as two mine shafts, limekilns and a canal. u An excursion which takes us to the lovely town of Upton-upon-Severn, with its flourishing marina, delightful old buildings, attractive shops and inns. Look out for The “Pepperpot”, a most distinctive medieval church tower topped by an 18th century

WOODFORD DOLMEN HOTEL, CARLOW HHH The Woodford Dolmen Hotel is nestled in a picturesque location on the banks of the River Barrow and surrounded by luscious green grounds. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and are equipped with multi-channel TV, direct dial telephone, hairdryer, free Wifi and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a restaurant & bar. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

‘Mature Singles’ The Sunny South East of Irelan

d & Dublin

The South East of Ireland, which consists of five counties: Carlow; Kilkenny; Tipperary; Waterford & Wexford is often referred to by the Irish as the ‘Sunny South East’ and is famous for its vibrant towns, rural getaways and coastal villages. On our tour we take time to visit Kilkenny City; enjoy an afternoon at Altamont Gardens; and explore the delights that Dublin has to offer.

M AT U R E S I N G L E S

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u The Medieval Capital of Kilkenny City u A ride on the Kilkenny Road Train u Admission to Altamont Gardens u Ireland’s Capital – Dublin u Admission to Old Jameson Distillery u Cruise on the River Liffey

settings in Ireland. It’s a charming u We enjoy an excursion which takes us blend of formal and informal styles to Kilkenny City, renowned as being with an impressive rose collection.

Ireland’s Medieval Capital. u We head for Ireland’s Capital City, Characterised by beautifully restored Dublin where we visit the Old Jameson old buildings and covered slipways, Distillery. The visitor experience Kilkenny City is small enough to transports you back in time to tell the explore on foot, however during our story of John Jameson and his world visit we are including a ride on the renowned smooth Irish whiskey. And, Kilkenny Road Train which highlights of course, no visit would be complete the historical sights and is a fantastic without a complimentary tasting! way to view the city. We then have free Following this visit there will be some time to explore. free time prior to re-grouping for our u We spend the morning in Carlow with River Liffey cruise during the its castle remains standing on the afternoon, passing some of the city’s eastern bank of the river. In the most historic sites and seeing Dublin afternoon we make the short drive to from a different perspective. discover the delightful Altamont Gardens, one of the most romantic DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 12TH SEPTEMBER

5

£389

NIL

HOTEL IRVINE HHHH Located on the outskirts of Irvine this 4 star standard hotel is ideally situated for our tour. All of the bedrooms are beautifully furnished with private facilities and have colour TV, telephone, hairdryer, ironing facilities and tea/coffee makers.

The hotel offers a Brasserie Restaurant, Cocktail Bar and spacious Lounge. There will be two nights entertainment at the hotel during our stay. Sorry No Lift, but ground floor bedrooms are available.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

© Humphrey Bolton

Mature Singles West of Scotland Based in Ayrshire which lies on the West Coast of Scotland with 80 miles of stunning coastline. On this tour we include a visit to Dumfries House, one of Britain’s most beautiful stately homes, rescued by HRH Prince Charles in 2007, the house has a fine collection of 18th century furniture as well as fine examples of the work of Thomas Chippendale.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Tea/Coffee & Shortbread on Arrival at hotel u Two Nights Entertainment at the hotel u Pre-Dinner Drinks Reception at the hotel u Beautiful Dumfries House u Seaside Resort of Ayr u Glasgow Riverside Museum u Luss & Loch Lomond Shores Complex

42

u We make our way to Glasgow Riverside Museum, a multi-award winning museum which is home to over 3,000 objects that detail Glasgow’s rich past from its days as maritime powerhouse to a glimpse into daily Glasgow life in the early to mid 20th century. Following this visit we enjoy some free time exploring Glasgow. u An excursion which takes us to the seaside resort of Ayr with its charming sea front and leafy suburbs but also great for shopping. Following some free time here we make our way to Dumfries House at Cumnock. Set in 2,000 acres this stunning estate with its 18th century house with its unrivalled collection of Chippendale

furniture has something for everyone.

While here learn how HRH Prince Charles used £20 million of his own charitable foundation’s money to secure the house and its furniture.

During our visit we also include a cup of tea/coffee and shortbread. u We head across Erskine Bridge towards Loch Lomond where we continue up to the pretty village of Luss where we spend a little free time.

From here we make our way back to Balloch and call in at Loch Lomond Shores Leisure & Shopping Complex where there is time to explore before returning to the hotel.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 24TH OCTOBER

5

£359

NIL

www.ellensmith.co.uk

The Spring of Kerry

IRELAND

A fabulous Spring break to the beautiful South West of Ireland staying at the popular River Island Hotel in Castleisland. We include a visit to Muckross House & Gardens, a famous lakeside country house with magnificent gardens and an enjoyable springtime day as we explore The Ring of Kerry.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Return Ferry, Holyhead – Dublin u One free drink with dinner each evening at The River Island Hotel u Nightly Entertainment at The River Island Hotel u The ‘Tidy Town’ of Killarney u Admission to Muckross House & Gardens u The Ring of Kerry

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

u We enjoy a visit to Killarney, multiple award-winner of Ireland’s ‘Tidy Town’ competition and one of the country’s most popular tourist resorts all year round. Explore its many shops, bars and cafes or maybe take a traditional jaunting car ride (not included in the cost), the choice is yours. In the afternoon we make our way to Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farm for our included visit.

A great place to visit on a spring day with the fabulous mountains as its

backdrop. u A lovely scenic excursion as we make our way around the Ring of Kerry, dominated by MacGillycuddy’s Reeks.

Savour the spectacular scenery as you travel along the narrow coastal road of the Iveragh Peninsula. u On our return journey we enjoy some free time to explore Ireland’s Capital, Dublin before making our way to our overnight hotel.

© (J O'Grady)

OVERNIGHT HOTELS: On the outward journey our overnight hotel is the 3 star standard Green Isle Hotel, near Dublin and includes Evening Meal & Breakfast.

On the return journey our overnight hotel is the 3 star standard Regency Hotel, Dublin and includes Dinner.

RETURN JOURNEY: Breakfast is included onboard the ferry.

RIVER ISLAND HOTEL, CASTLEISLAND HHH A modern 3 star standard hotel which is centrally located in the vibrant market town of Castleisland in County Kerry. The town is noted for having the widest main street to be found in Ireland. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and have colour TV, telephone and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a restaurant, lounge bar and nightly entertainment. Lift.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

SATURDAY 23RD APRIL

6

£389

£71.00

Please Note: All single rooms are double/twin rooms for sole occupancy.

Obligatory Requirements: Passport or Photographic ID and Travel Insurance.

It is also advisable to carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you.

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

43

Wild Atlantic Way

IRELAND

The Wild Atlantic Way is the world’s longest defined coastal touring route and it’s inspiring, renewing, relaxing and invigorating. For our tour we explore the south west region with visits to Cork, Kinsale and we take a ferry to the island of Garinish to view the stunning Italian Gardens.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Return Ferry, Holyhead – Dublin u Free Time in Cork u Entrance to Titanic Experience Cobh u Tour & Tasting at Jameson Distillery u Guided Tour of Kinsale u Ferry & Admission to Garinish Island

CELTIC ROSS HOTEL, ROSSCARBERY HHH The Celtic Ross Hotel is a family owned superior 3 star hotel in the scenic surroundings of West Cork, in the South West corner of Ireland. Explore the local village with its colourful square which is as picturesque and traditional as you could wish for. All bedrooms are ensuite and are equipped with hairdryer, TV and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a restaurant & bar and has a leisure centre with swimming pool, gym, sauna & steam room. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

the most picturesque popular and u We make our way to Cork where we historic towns on the South West enjoy some free time. As Ireland’s third Coast of Ireland and is the starting city, it’s a busy, friendly city with plenty point of the Wild Atlantic Way. to do. Why not visit St. Finbarr’s u We head to Glengarriff and take the Cathedral, Cork City Gaol or wander ferry across to the island of Garinish the stalls in the English market, are to see the lovely Italian Gardens. just a few suggestions. From here we Following this visit we re-join our continue to Cobh for an included visit coach and explore the beautiful Beara to the Titanic Experience before Peninsula, driving along the coast travelling to Midleton for a Tour & passing unspoilt fishing villages. We Tasting at Jameson Distillery. make a short stop at Castletown u We travel to Kinsale in time to meet Bearhaven overlooking Bear Island our guide for a tour of this medieval before we continue back to our hotel. fishing port. Historic Kinsale is one of

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

SUNDAY 28TH AUGUST

5

£389

£60.00

Obligatory Requirements: Passport or Photographic ID and Travel Insurance.

It is also advisable to carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you.

44

www.ellensmith.co.uk

se Galway, Connemara & A Lake Crui

IRELAND

This classic tour to Galway combines the vibrant, artistic ‘City of Tribes’ with the wilderness of the Connemara, elegant Kylemore Abbey and a relaxing cruise on Lough Corrib.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Return Ferry, Holyhead – Dublin u Lough Corrib Cruise u Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre u Visit to Kylemore Abbey u Connemara National Park u Free time in Galway City

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

u From our overnight hotel we make our way to Galway City for some free time.

Galway is a thriving, bohemian, cultural city as well as being a popular seaside destination. In the afternoon we enjoy one of the highlights of the tour; a lovely lake cruise aboard the Corrib Princess. Sit back & relax while we sail along the majestic River Corrib and onto Lough Corrib as the Corrib Princess takes you past castles and various sites of both historical and cultural interest. From here we make our way to the Menlo Park Hotel. u We make our way to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre for breath taking views 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. In the afternoon we head for the County Town of County Clare ~ Ennis. We enjoy free time here to

explore and stroll through the atmospheric, winding medieval streets of this historic market town. u We explore Connemara National Park with its wild ponies and mountain scenery before heading to the thriving town of Clifden where we spend some free time. Later, we make our way to idyllic Kylemore Abbey, a neo-gothic castle and home to a community of nuns of the Benedictine order. Explore the immaculate Victorian walled garden, the church, the restored rooms of the Abbey and experience the aura of peace and tranquillity and a sense of spirituality. u We leave the hotel in Galway and head to Bray for our overnight stay making a stop in Athlone, the largest town in the Midlands region located on the River Shannon.

OVERNIGHT HOTELS: On the outward journey we stay at the 4 star standard Johnstown House Hotel, Enfield with Evening Meal & Breakfast included.

On the return journey we stay at the 3 star standard Esplanade Hotel, Bray with Evening Meal included.

RETURN JOURNEY: Breakfast is included onboard the ferry

MENLO PARK HOTEL, GALWAY HHHH The Menlo Park Hotel combines the very best of modern facilities with good old fashioned hospitality. All of the recently refurbished contemporary bedrooms are en-suite and are equipped with hairdryer, iron & ironing board, trouser press, direct dial telephone, complimentary Wifi and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a bar & restaurant. Lift.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 12TH SEPTEMBER

6

£439

£83.00

Please Note: The single rooms are all double/twin for sole occupancy.

Obligatory Requirements: Passport or Photographic ID and Travel Insurance.

It is also advisable to carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you.

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

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© National Trust Mount Stewart

North & South of Ireland

IRELAND

A lovely short break as we take in parts of Northern & Southern Ireland and included visits to Titanic Belfast; The Guinness Storehouse and a tour of Croke Park.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Return Ferry, Holyhead – Dublin u Admission to Titanic Belfast u Admission to Guinness Storehouse u Admission & Tour of Croke Park u Admission to Mount Stewart House & Gardens

BALLYMASCANLON HOUSE HOTEL, DUNDALK HHHH Set in 130 acres of beautiful parkland, this impressive Victorian House forms the heart of this family run hotel. Steeped in history, Ballymascanlon Estate dates from 833ad when it was the seat of the Scanlons of Oriel. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and feature complimentary Wifi, satellite TV, iron & ironing board, electronic safe, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a restaurant & bar, garden & terrace. The hotel also has a golf course and leisure centre with swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi & steam room. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

u We travel north over the border and continue to Belfast for an included visit to Titanic Belfast. Titanic Belfast extends over nine galleries, with multiple dimensions to the exhibition, drawing together special effects, dark rides, full-scale reconstructions and innovative interactive features to explore the Titanic story in a fresh and insightful way. Explore the shipyard, travel to the depths of the ocean and uncover the true legend of Titanic, in the city where it all began. Following this visit we also have some free time to explore Belfast. u We head south to Dublin where our day begins with a tour of the iconic Croke Park. Steeped in history, the stadium has been at the heart of Irish sporting and cultural life for over 100 years. Enjoy unrivalled state-of-the-

46

art interactive visitor experience and find out more about Ireland’s unique national games and the fastest field game in the world – hurling and Gaelic football. From here we make our way into Dublin city for some free time to explore. We end the day with an included visit to the famous Guinness Storehouse. u We make our way back north to Downpatrick with its ancient cathedral which is said to be the burial place of Saint Patrick. Following some free time here we continue to Strangford Lough where we include a visit to Mount Stewart House & Gardens. The house has undergone a £7million restoration programme and the gardens are ranked as one of the top ten gardens to visit in the world.

© Donal McCann

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 16TH MAY

5

£399

£60.00

Obligatory Requirements: Passport or Photographic ID and Travel Insurance.

It is also advisable to carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you.

www.ellensmith.co.uk

Northern Ireland Explorer Join us on this tour exploring some of the wonders of Northern Ireland.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Cairnryan – Belfast Ferry, return u Belfast City Guided Tour u The Giants Causeway u Beautiful Antrim Coast u The Walled City of Derry u Scenic Rail Journey, Derry - Coleraine

The Park Avenue Hotel is located on the east side area less than 2 miles from the city centre. All of the bright, spacious bedrooms are ensuite and are equipped with flat screen TV, airconditioning, free Wifi, iron & ironing board, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a restaurant & bar. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

we travel, to what is regarded as one u We enjoy a guided tour of Belfast. This of the finest marine drives in Europe, handsome city stands at the mouth of the Antrim Coast Road, with the River Lagan and reflects the spectacular scenery centred around wealth it enjoyed during the Industrial the nine Glens of Antrim, making a Revolution. Take in such sights as the stop at Carnlough before returning Botanical Gardens, Queen’s University, back to Belfast. the Waterfront Hall and the famous u We head to Londonderry, the only Titanic docks. The rest of the day is at completed walled city in Ireland leisure for you to explore the city on standing on the banks of the River foot.

Foyle. Here we enjoy some free time to u We enjoy our journey via Ballymena as explore. In the afternoon we enjoy we make our way to the Giants what Michael Palin described as “one Causeway Visitor Centre and use of of the most beautiful rail journeys in outdoors interpretive audio-guide. the world” - the train journey from Please Note: there is a charge Londonderry to Coleraine. The track payable for the shuttle bus from the runs alongside beautiful beaches, Visitor Centre to the Causeway (cost through Ireland’s longest railway approx. £2.00 per person). The tunnels and past historic landmarks.

Causeway is a strange mix of Following the rail journey we make our hexagonal basalt columns – a way back to the hotel. spectacular sight. Following this visit DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

SUNDAY 5TH JUNE

5

£399

£60.00

Please Note: The Single Supplement is for the use of a double/twin room for sole occupancy.

Obligatory Requirements: Photographic ID & Travel Insurance.

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

47

IRELAND

Belfast is one of the top cities ‘on the rise’, a vibrant, modern capital with an absorbing past. With one of the most awesome sights in the world – The Giants Causeway – an exceptionally beautiful coastline, historic castles and sublimely scenic glens, the Antrim coast will win you over with its many charms and we also enjoy a scenic rail journey.

PARK AVENUE HOTEL, BELFAST HHHH

GRETNA HALL HOTEL HHH Nestling in ten acres of landscaped ground and situated midway between the Borders Region and Scotland’s southwest, the 3 star standard Gretna Hall Hotel is located in the centre of Gretna Green. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and have TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Exploring Dumfries & Galloway The landscape in Dumfries & Galloway is naturally inspiring, influencing the region’s history, culture and everyday life. On our tour we take time to visit beautiful Drumlanrig Castle & Gardens; stunning Threave Gardens and Sweeheart Abbey.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

SCOTLAND

u Sweetheart Abbey u Drumlanrig Castle & Gardens u Threave Gardens u Scotland’s Undiscovered South West u Hotel Entertainment on two evenings

u We travel the short distance to the pretty village of New Abbey, home to Sweetheart Abbey, the splendid remains of a 13th century Abbey founded by Devorgilla, Lady of Galloway, in memory of her husband.

We then continue along the coast route to the picturesque harbour town of Kirkcudbright where we have time to explore. Our return to the hotel takes us along the edge of the Galloway Forest Park towards New Galloway as we return to Gretna. u We make our way to Dumfries, home to the Burns Centre located in the towns’ 18th century watermill. We enjoy some free time in Dumfries. In the afternoon we head for Drumlanrig Castle and Gardens, an impressive

castle set in 90,000 acres of parkland and gardens. Explore the castle, the formal gardens and the newly restored Glasshouse. u We drive alongside Loch Ken to Castle Douglas, an 18th century market town. Later we continue to spectacular Threave which consists of 60 acres of individual display gardens set amongst a wooded area with amazing views of the surrounding countryside.

© Flickr - Nigel's Europe & beyond

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 15TH AUGUST

5

£349

£60.00

TINTO HOUSE HOTEL HHH Nestled in five acres of stunning gardens within the breathtaking countryside of the Scottish Borders, this traditional country house hotel is ideal for a short break. All of the stylish, relaxing bedrooms are en-suite and have flat screen TV with free view, direct dial telephone and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a restaurant & bar.

Sorry no lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

The Beautiful Scottish Borders & Edinburgh Fall under the spell of the beauty and enthralling history of the Scottish Borders and discover a gentler way of life!

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Scotland’s Capital - Edinburgh u Royal Burgh of Peebles u Historic County Town of Dumfries u In February there is a ‘Winter Warmer’ themed package at the hotel u In May we include a visit to The Royal Yacht Britannia and Dawyck Botanic Gardens

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u The Historic Country Town of Dumfries.

Excursions Included for the May Tour: u A visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia, which was home to Her Majesty The Queen and The Royal Family for over 40 years. Following this visit we spend some free time in Edinburgh. u We make our way to Dawyck Botanic Garden for our included visit. The 65 acre garden enjoys a continental climate in which an abundance of plant species, collected from around the world, flourish. Following this visit we head into Peebles where we spend some free time. u A visit to the historic county town of Dumfries.

‘Winter Warmer’ Package in February includes: u Welcome Drinks Reception u Prize Jumbo Quiz u Afternoon Tea/Coffee with Cream Scone on two days u A Scottish themed Dinner on One Evening u Complimentary Glass of House Wine on last Evening u Some Entertainment Excursions Included for the February Tour: u A visit to the Scottish Capital of Edinburgh. u We make a visit to the Ancient and Royal Burgh of Peebles for some free time. In the afternoon we make our way to the attractive town of Jedburgh for time at leisure.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 1ST FEBRUARY

5

£60.00

MONDAY 2ND MAY

5

£219 £299

www.ellensmith.co.uk

£60.00

TINTO HOUSE HOTEL HHH Nestled in five acres of stunning gardens within the breathtaking countryside of the Scottish Borders, this traditional country house hotel is ideal for a short break. All of the stylish, relaxing bedrooms are ensuite and have flat screen TV with free view, direct dial telephone and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a restaurant & bar. Sorry no lift.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Free Time in Edinburgh u Ticket for the Edinburgh Military Tattoo u Free time in Carlisle prior to making the journey home

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Please Note: Our coach cannot drop off right outside the castle during the Tattoo and access to the castle is via Castlehill which is quite a steep walk.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

FRIDAY 12TH AUGUST

3

£259

£30.00

PLEASE NOTE: Evening Meal WILL NOT be provided by the hotel on the night of the Tattoo.

THE ESPLANADE HOTEL, DUNOON HHH The family owned and run Esplanade Hotel is situated on the idyllic West Bay Promenade in Dunoon and offers a very warm welcome to its guests. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and are equipped with flat screen TV with freeview; alarm clock; telephone; hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a restaurant, lounge bar and some entertainment. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Dunoon & Exploring the Lochs Dunoon is a popular holiday resort and capital of the Cowal Peninsula which nestles on the shores of the Firth of Clyde, surrounded by a treasure trove of forests, hills, gardens and attractive bays. Our tour includes a cruise on beautiful Loch Lomond as well as a 2 hour ‘Exploring the Lochs’ cruise of the Clyde Estuary as we enjoy the spectacular West Coast scenery.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Cruise on Loch Lomond u A visit to Loch Lomond Shores Leisure & Shopping Complex u Admission to Inveraray Castle & Gardens u Free Time in Inveraray u ‘Explore the Lochs’ Cruise

onwards through the narrows to the u A scenic excursion as we head towards magnificent Ben Lomond and the Loch Fyne where we visit Inveraray historic village of Luss, before Castle, the ancestral home of the Duke returning along the west shore back to of Argyll, Chief of the Clan Campbell.

Balloch. Following the cruise we make Following the visit to the Castle spend our return to the hotel. some time wandering through the u We enjoy a morning free in Dunoon to beautiful gardens. After this visit we explore. In the afternoon we make the have some free time in Inveraray to short journey to Blairmore Pier in time explore this delightful town before to meet our boat for our ‘Explore the returning to the hotel.

Lochs’ Cruise as we sail along the u We enjoy a scenic journey as we make magnificent sea lochs of the Clyde our way to Balloch to spend some time Estuary, sheltered cruising at its best! at Loch Lomond Shores Leisure & We sail past the Royal Navy Shopping Complex. In the afternoon submarine base at Coulpart and enjoy we make our way to the Pier in time a close-up view of the 14th century for our included ‘Island Discovery’ Carrick Castle. Following the cruise we Cruise on Loch Lomond. This 2 hour make the short journey back to round trip takes you past Cameron Dunoon.

House Hotel and the world renowned Loch Lomond Golf Course, continuing DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 27TH JUNE

5

£32.00

MONDAY 19TH SEPTEMBER

5

£329 £329

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

£32.00

49

SCOTLAND

Set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, The Edinburgh Tattoo is a great international gathering. Every year, more than 100 million people around the world watch the Tattoo on TV … more than 11 million people from over 100 countries have experienced the Tattoo live … and more than 40,000 performers from over 40 countries have taken part.

u On the day of the Tattoo our coach will transport you into Edinburgh where we enjoy some free time prior to taking our seat for the show. There will be NO evening meal at the hotel provided tonight. u On our return we make a stop in Carlisle where we enjoy some free time before continuing the journey home.

REGENT HOTEL, OBAN HH An art deco style hotel located on the Esplanade of Oban just a few minutes walk to the town centre. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and are equipped with TV, telephone and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar and a minimum of 2 nights entertainment. Lift.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Welcome tea, coffee & biscuits on arrival u Minimum of 2 nights entertainment u Seil Island u Fort William

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Oban Houseparty SCOTLAND

A great value Scottish ‘out of season’ tour staying in Oban “Gateway to the Isles”. Surrounded by sweeping mountains and lovely harbour Oban is the perfect setting to explore the West Highlands.

u We enjoy our journey to Seil Island, made famous for the film “Ring of Bright Water”. We cross the ‘Bridge over the Atlantic’ opening up magnificent coastal scenery of the islands. We make a stop at the quaint village of Easdale with its whitewashed fisherman cottages. u A scenic coastal drive along the shoreline of the loch takes us to Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis. We enjoy free time here to explore this

main town of the West Highlands. We then make the short drive to Neptune’s Staircase to see the boats navigating the 8 locks of the Caledonian Canal.

From here we continue the journey along the side of the canal to Gairlochy before stopping at the Commando Monument in Spean Bridge. It is in this area that thousands of elite Commandos trained during WW2.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 11TH JANUARY

5

£199

£40.00

FISHERS HOTEL, PITLOCHRY HHH Centrally located in the beautiful Victorian Town of Pitlochry in the Perthshire Highlands is the elegant Fishers Hotel. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and are equipped with colour TV and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Garden and Lounge Bar. Some entertainment. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Whisky & Castles Perthshire is the base for this captivating tour, with its picturesque lochs, Highland glens, characterful towns & villages and also an area with a historical connection and many of Scotland’s most grand castles are all nearby. On our tour we include visits to Glamis Castle & Gardens; Blair Castle; A tour & tasting at the Famous Grouse Experience as well as Blair Atholl Distillery.

u Our first stop off is at the Queens View at the head of Loch Tummel, a most admired spot for Queen Victoria. From here we continue the short journey to the 12th century Blair Castle for our included visit. Blair has a chequered history involving Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie. In the afternoon we make our way to nearby Blair Atholl Distillery where we include a tour & tasting before returning to the hotel. u We enjoy a scenic excursion in the morning as we head to Aberfeldy, Loch Tay & Killin. The afternoon is free to explore Pitlochry.

u We enjoy an excursion which takes us to Glamis Castle where we include a guided tour of what is known as one of Scotland’s finest and most glamorous castles. Glamis is the childhood home of the Queen Mother, the birthplace of HRH Princess Margaret and the setting for Shakespeare’s “MacBeth”. Following the tour of the castle there will be free time to explore the beautiful gardens.

In the afternoon we head to the Famous Grouse Experience for a tour and whisky tasting of Scotland’s most popular brand.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Admission to Blair Castle u Tour & Tasting at Blair Atholl Distillery u Admission to Glamis Castle & Gardens u Tour & Tasting at The Famous Grouse Experience u Scenic tour of Aberfeldy, Loch Tay & Killin u Some Free Time in Pitlochry

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DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 18TH APRIL

5

£64.00

MONDAY 26TH SEPTEMBER

5

£349 £379

www.ellensmith.co.uk

£64.00

Drymen nds ‘All Inclusive’ House Parties and ‘Secret Isla

© Sir Gawain @ www.wikipedia.org

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ‘All Inclusive’ House Parties Break in March & October Include: u Welcome Drinks Reception u Full Board with Breakfasts, 3 x Packed Lunches & Dinner u Complimentary Glass of House Wine with Dinner u Weaponry Display on 1 night u Full Scottish Show on 1 night u Live Music on 2 Evenings u ‘Free Bar’ from 7:30pm – 10:30pm Each Evening (see disclaimer) u Excursions to: Loch Lomond Shores Complex & Luss; Stirling; Callander & The Trossachs

© Flickr - magnus.hagdorn

THE WINNOCK HOTEL, DRYMEN HHH The Winnock Hotel is Drymen’s landmark building. A former 18th century coaching inn, The Winnock, takes centre stage in the conservation village and sits on the village green looking out over the spectacular surroundings. All of the sympathetically decorated bedrooms have private facilities with colour satellite TV, direct-dial telephone and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a spacious lounge & bar, covered and heated outdoor decking area and Restaurant. Sorry No Lift, but ground floor bedrooms are available.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ‘Secret Islands & Waterways of Scotland’ Break in April Includes: u Half Board Accommodation at the hotel u Cruise on the Maid of the Forth to Inchcolm Island with time to explore the Island and its wildlife as well as the Abbey u Cruise to the wonderful Isle of Arran, including a tour of the island and entrance to Brodick Castle u 2 hour cruise exploring the secret Island and Narrows of Loch Lomond u Entertainment on at least 2 nights DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

THEME

THURSDAY 3RD MARCH

5

£52.00

All Inclusive House Party

TUESDAY 26TH APRIL

5

£64.00

Secret Islands & Waterways

SUNDAY 30TH OCTOBER

5

£259 £329 £329

£64.00

All Inclusive House Party

Disclaimer for the ‘Free Drinks’ on the February tour - printed at the request of The Winnock Hotel for ‘All Inclusive’ Tours with Free Bar “Under the terms of the Licensing (Scotland) act 2005, the supply of alcoholic drinks in our ‘All Inclusive’ Packages is not unlimited. Subject to our discretion in the case of drunkenness, patrons on an ‘All Inclusive’ Package shall be permitted a maximum of £15.00 worth of alcoholic drinks per day as part of the package.”

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

51

SCOTLAND

The ‘House Party’ breaks offer excellent value for an entertainment filled programme with free bar, fabulous food and getting away from it all. The ‘Secret Islands & Waterways of Scotland’ break offers some exciting inclusions and a chance to explore Scotland’s secret places!

& Waterways of Scotland’ Breaks

‘Highland Party’ Isles of Glencoe SCOTLAND

Join us on one of these ‘Highland Party’ getaways to a stunning location in a beautiful part of the Highlands of Scotland with its world-famous scenery and history.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ‘Highland House-Party’ Package Includes: u Welcome Glass of Mulled Wine u Musical Entertainment on the 1st night u Quiz night on the 2nd night u Traditional Scottish Evening with glass of wine, ½ pint of beer or soft drink on 3rd night u Live Music Entertainment on 4th night

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

u We make our way across the Atlantic to Seil Island for a visit and call in at Oban for free time on our way back to the hotel.

u A visit to Mallaig and Fort William u A visit to Inveraray on Loch Fyne

©Paul TompkinsScottishViewPoint

ISLES OF GLENCOE HOTEL HHH The Isles of Glencoe Hotel and Leisure Centre is set on its own loch-side peninsula with three kilometres of water frontage. All of the spacious bedrooms are modern & comfortable with breathtaking views across the loch or to the hills of Morvern and have private facilities with colour TV, telephone and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a conservatory restaurant, bar, lounge and Leisure Facilities with indoor heated swimming pool.

Sorry No Lift but some ground floor bedrooms are available.

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DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 8TH FEBRUARY

5

£88.00

MONDAY 14TH NOVEMBER

5

£259 £279

www.ellensmith.co.uk

£88.00

The Inner Hebridean Island Hopper

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u All Ferry Crossings as described u Whisky Distillery Tour & Tasting u Cable Car Ride u Isle of Arran & Mull of Kintyre u Isle of Islay u Oban and the Isles of Mull & Iona u Fort William u Isle of Skye circular tour

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

of the Hebrides” with 8 working u Saturday: distilleries, stunning scenery, amazing We enjoy our journey north making wildlife and friendly people. It is an suitable stops en-route to Irvine and island with a rich past dating back to on to the Hotel for our overnight stay. the Bronze Age, stone circles and u Sunday: remains of settlements are clearly Following breakfast our coach takes us visible. Whilst on Islay we enjoy an to catch the morning sailing to Arran, included visit to Bowmore Whisky Scotland’s most southerly Island and Distillery for a tour & tasting. We travel one of the largest. We spend most of across the island before catching the the day on the island visiting Highland ferry back to the mainland, arriving Aromatics, the islands capital of back at the hotel at approx. 7pm.

Brodick, Blackwaterfoot and a drive u Tuesday: around the coastline. The islands Today we enjoy a scenic coastal drive history dates back to 7000BC and there passing Loch Melfort as we head for is evidence of this on your travels. Late Oban in time to catch the midafternoon, catch the “wee-boat” at morning sailing to the Isle of Mull – the Lochranza and on to the Mull of third largest of the Scottish islands. We Kintyre. The journey to Ardrishaig hugs pass imposing Duart Castle as we head the shoreline of Loch Fyne. We for the short ferry crossing (embark as continue to The Grey Gull Hotel, our foot passengers) to the sacred isle of base for the next two nights.

Iona, the burial place of over 100 u Monday: Scottish Kings and still regarded by A fantastic day awaits as we make the many as a religious sanctuary. It is also journey to Kennacraig in time for our an island of extreme beauty. We spend ferry to Islay, recognised as the “Queen

HOTEL IRVINE HHHH X 1 NIGHT A modern contemporary hotel, set in its own grounds. Sorry No Lift.

GREY GULL, ARDRISHAIG HHH X 2 NIGHTS

SCOTLAND

A fascinating Scottish Island experience, visiting five distinctly different islands: Arran, Islay, Mull, Iona and Skye. An ultimate tour with breath-taking & unspoilt coastline scenery. But this is only part of our adventure, as unexpected wonders unfold before you each day. Learn about each islands’ culture & history, wildlife & their unique island lifestyle. A truly inspiring journey to Highland islands which have little changed in generations.

Superb location on the shoreline with views from most bedrooms.

Sorry No Lift, however some ground floor rooms may be available.

REGENT, OBAN HH X 1 NIGHT Located on the seafront in the centre of Oban. Lift

BEST WESTERN IMPERIAL, FORT WILLIAM HHH X 2 NIGHTS The hotel is located right in the town centre and most bedrooms have a loch view. Sorry No Lift. time here before catching our return u Thursday: ferry, re-joining our coach and heading Another amazing day out as we head back to Oban and onto the Regent along the “Road to the isles” to Hotel for our overnight stay.

Mallaig. Enjoy one of the most wellu Wednesday: known ferry journeys in the world with This morning we enjoy some free time a sail “Over the sea to Skye”. On Skye we in Oban before making the journey head to Broadford and then the islands along the lochside to the West capital, Portree, fringed by high cliffs Highlands main town of Fort William. and a quaint fishing town with narrow The best views of the Highlands is from streets and a thriving cultural centre. the top of a mountain and we have In the afternoon we head towards the arranged for you to be transported in a Skye Bridge with the Cuillins – the mountain cable car from sea level to most dramatic of Scottish mountain over 2000ft up Aonach Mor, next to ranges coming into view. We continue Ben Nevis. From here the views over past Eilean Donan Castle and return to the town towards the isles are our hotel. spectacular and at the top there is a u Friday: café & shop as well as walking trails.

Following breakfast this morning we We continue to the Best Western head south through Glencoe and make Imperial Hotel, Fort William our base our journey home. for the next two nights.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

SATURDAY 23RD APRIL

7

£559

£75.00

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

53

Orkney & Shetland Mini-Cruise SCOTLAND

Our mini cruise to Orkney and Shetland offers a rare chance to visit two of the most northerly British Isles. Journey to the far north of Scotland via the spectacular Highlands with opportunities for city sightseeing en-route. The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the two days of guided excursions on Orkney and Shetland and two nights cruising with Northlink Ferries.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u 1 night in Pitlochry u 1 night in Thurso u 1 night sailing from Orkney u Guided Tour on Orkney u 1 night sailing from Shetland u Guided Tour on Shetland u 1 night in Glasgow

ITINERARY

overnight sailing to Lerwick, Shetland, u Sunday: with Northlink Ferries.

After being picked up from home we u Wednesday: enjoy our journey north making Following breakfast on board we suitable stops en-route to Pitlochry for depart the ship in Lerwick, re-join our our overnight stay at Fishers Hotel. coach and meet up with our Shetland Dinner at the hotel this evening. guide. We enjoy a guided tour taking u Monday: in such sites as Jarlshof in the south of Following breakfast we continue our Shetland and Scalloway Castle. We journey north as we head to Thurso, return to Lerwick where we have some again making suitable stops en-route free time prior to boarding our as we head to the Royal Hotel. Dinner Northlink Ferry for our overnight at the hotel this evening. sailing to Aberdeen. Dinner this u Tuesday: evening will be on board.

Following breakfast we enjoy a u Thursday : leisurely morning in Thurso before Following our breakfast on board we making the short journey to Scrabster disembark the ferry in Aberdeen and in time to meet our Ferry for the 90 re-join our coach. We make a stop in minute sailing to Orkney, past Britain’s the Discovery City of Dundee for some highest vertical cliffs and the Old Man free time to explore before continuing of Hoy. Upon arrival in Stomness we the journey to Glasgow for our final meet our local guide and spend the night at The Erskine Bridge Hotel. day visiting the World Heritage Sites Dinner at the hotel this evening. of Skara Brae, Stones of Stenness, u Friday: Ring of Brodgar, plus Skaill House, Following breakfast at the hotel this Churchill Barriers, Italian Chapel, morning we leave Glasgow and make Scapa Flow. This evening we enjoy a the journey home. meal in a local restaurant before making our way to Kirkwall for our

54

FISHERS HOTEL, PITLOCHRY HHH (Dinner & Breakfast included)

ROYAL HOTEL, THURSO HHH (Dinner & Breakfast included)

ERSKINE BRIDGE HOTEL, GLASGOW HHH (Dinner & Breakfast included)

NORTHLINK FERRIES: All the cabins offer two berths, side by side, NOT as bunks and have en-suite facilities of power shower, sink and vacuum flush toilet.

Further features include radio and internal telephone. On-board there is a restaurant, bar, sun-deck, comfortable lounge, games room and shop.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

SUNDAY 19TH JUNE

6

£659

£114.00

Please Note: For this tour it is advisable to carry some form of photographic ID

www.ellensmith.co.uk

Tenby

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS For the April Tour we Include: u Picton Castle & Haverfordwest u St. David’s, Fishguard & Narberth For October & November Tours we Include: u Haverfordwest & St. David’s u Saundersfoot & Narbeth

© Flickr_nicksarebi

The Cliffe Norton is a privately owned Grade II early 19th Century listed building. With a warm welcome by friendly staff, it offers a wonderful intimate atmosphere for guests. Situated in an enviable position above lush cliff gardens, it enjoys panoramic views across the bay, including Goskar Rock, North Beach and Tenby’s Fishing Harbour. All bedrooms have private facilities with colour TV and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Bar and Lounge and some entertainment. Lift does not serve all bedrooms and there may still be some stairs. There are about 8 stairs to the Dining Room.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED FOR APRIL:

stunning gardens. Following this visit we continue to Haverfordwest, the attractive and ancient county town of Pembrokeshire, for some free time.

u An excursion which takes us to St. David’s, the smallest cathedral city in Britain and a popular location for pilgrims and artists alike. After spending some free time here we make our way to Fishguard and then on to Narberth, a gorgeous little market town in the east of Pembrokeshire. Multi-coloured Edwardian & Georgian buildings line the High Street which has developed quite a reputation as a shopper’s haven. u We enjoy an excursion which takes us first of all to Picton Castle & Gardens for our included visit. Picton is half fortified manor house and half medieval castle, set in 40 acres of

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED FOR OCTOBER & NOVEMBER:

u A visit to Haverfordwest & St. David’s u A visit to Saundersfoot & Narberth

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

THURSDAY 7TH APRIL

5

£16.00

SATURDAY 15TH OCTOBER

5

WEDNESDAY 23RD NOVEMBER

5

£289 £289 £279

£16.00 £16.00

Sea View Supplement: £16.00 per person November Tour has a ‘Turkey & Tinsel’ theme at the hotel.

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

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WALES

With its pastel coloured buildings, narrow streets, fortified walls and bustling atmosphere, Tenby is one of the prettiest resorts in South Wales. It is justly proud of its golden beaches and picturesque harbour. Whether you take a stroll through the town or along the beaches or enjoy a ride along the Pembrokeshire coast, Tenby is an ideal base.

THE CLIFFE NORTON HOTEL, TENBY HH

NEW TOUR

THE METROPOLE HOTEL, LLANDRINDOD WELLS HHHH Located in the heart of Llandrindod Wells, this hotel has been owned by the same family for over 100 years. All of the bedrooms are decorated and furnished to a high standard, all are en-suite and are equipped with flat screen TV, telephone, trouser press, hairdryer, free wifi and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a restaurant; bar; spa facilities with indoor swimming pool, sauna & hot tub; garden & terrace. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Exploring the beauty of Mid Wales The rich, rolling green landscapes and unspoilt coastline of Mid Wales makes for an ideal holiday destination. We are based in the elegant Victorian Spa Town of Llandrindod Wells and include a nostalgic train journey and we step back in time with a visit to Abbey-Cwm-Hir Hall & Gardens.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

WALES

u Admission to Abbey-Cwm-Hir Hall & Gardens u Single Journey on the Vale of Rheidol Railway u Beautiful Scenery u Free Time in the seaside resort of Aberystwyth u A visit to Brecon u Hay-on-Wye

Valley reservoirs to Devil’s Bridge, u We make our way to Abbey-Cwm-Hir where we join the Vale of Rheidol Hall & Gardens for our included visit. narrow gauge steam railway for an Within a setting of breathtaking beauty, unforgettable and nostalgic journey history and romance, The Hall and its through some wonderful scenery to 12 acres overlook St. Mary’s church and the Victorian seaside resort of the ruins of the 12th century Cistercian Aberystwyth, also the home to the “Abbey of the Long Valley” containing National Library of Wales. We spend the monk’s pond and the grave of some free time here before making our Llewellyn the Last. The Hall at Abbeyway back by coach to the hotel.

Cwm-Hir is Grade II listed as one of u We experience the beautiful and Wales’ finest examples of Victorian diverse scenery of the Brecon Beacons Gothic Revival architecture. The National Park as we make our way to present owners have spent 10 years Brecon, with its medieval cathedral restoring The Hall and their and narrow streets full of craft & achievements have been featured on antique shops. Following some free BBC Wales. Following this visit we time here we continue to Hay-on-Wye return to Llandrindod Wells, where the giving time to explore before returning rest of the day is at leisure. to the hotel. u We enjoy a scenic drive past the Elan DEPARTURE

DAYS

MONDAY 11TH APRIL

5

SUNDAY 5TH JUNE

5

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

£339 £349

£40.00 £40.00

THE CELTIC ROYAL HOTEL, CAERNARFON HHH This stylish hotel is located in the famous town of Caernarfon, near Bangor in Gwynedd. All of the ensuite bedrooms are tastefully designed and include television, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a modern, stylish bar and restaurant as well as a superb leisure club with indoor swimming pool. The hotel offers 2 nights of entertainment. Lift.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

Scenic Snowdonia A lovely short break to enjoy at this time of year as we take in the stunning beauty Snowdonia has to offer. We also visit the National Welsh Slate Museum to learn about the history of the mining community – a fabulous insight into this pocket of history.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Visits to Conwy & Llandudno u Snowdonia National Park u Admission to the National Welsh Slate Museum u Unspoilt Isle of Anglesey

56

home. Following this visit we climb u We head north to the pretty little town the Llanberis Pass as we make our way of Conwy with its imposing castle to Betws-y-Coed for some free time. standing guard at the mouth of the On our return to the hotel we make a river. After spending some free time stop in the attractive village of here we continue to the popular resort Beddgelert. of Llandudno, situated on a wide u We cross over the Menai Straits to the sweeping bay and flanked by the unspoilt Isle of Anglesey where we Great Orme. We enjoy time at leisure drive to Llanfair…PG for our morning here before returning to the hotel. stop. After some time here we u A lovely scenic day as we head into the continue to handsome Beaumaris very heart of Snowdonia National with its fascinating castle.

Park as we make our first stop in the pretty lakeside village of Llanberis. It is here that we visit the National Welsh Slate Museum – a fabulous, not so much a museum as a pocket of history. It is as though the quarrymen and engineers have only just put down their tools and left the courtyard for DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 21ST MARCH

5

£249

£72.00

www.ellensmith.co.uk

April to September Dates Include a visit to: PLAS NEWYDD HOUSE & GARDENS

THE MERRION HOTEL HHH

Llandudno

One of the principle hotels of Llandudno and situated in a superb position on Llandudno’s promenade. All of the bedrooms have private facilities with colour TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Bar and Lift.

Llandudno is Wales's largest resort, uniquely situated between the Great and Little Ormes with two wonderful beaches, the award winning North Shore and the quiet, sand duned West Shore.

THE TYNEDALE HOTEL HHH

‘FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD’ – Sample Programme The Merrion Hotel – Monday 22nd February 2016 u Practical Cookery Demonstrations u Wine Tasting u Afternoon Quiz OR Bingo on 3 afternoons u Entertainment each evening u Afternoon tea & biscuits u Excursions to: Conwy & The Isle of Anglesey

‘LANDLUBBERS CRUISE’ – Sample Programme The Tynedale Hotel – Thursday 3rd March 2016 u Afternoon Tea on 3 days u 4-Course Themed Dinners u Gala Buffet u Special Cruise Breakfasts u Captains Cocktail Party u Cabaret Entertainment each Evening u Captains Dinner u Excursions to: Conwy & The Isle of Anglesey

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED make our way to Plas Newydd, set on On the February, March, November the shores of the Menai Strait amidst & December Tours we include: breathtakingly beautiful scenery, for u We enjoy the short journey to Conwy, our included visit of the House & a delightful small town with a Gardens. From Rex Whistler’s picturesque quayside overlooked by masterpiece to spectacular views of the mighty Conwy Castle.

Snowdon discover what Plas Newydd u An excursion which takes us to the Isle has to offer. The gardens include a fine of Anglesey making a stop in spring garden and an Australasian Beaumaris for some free time. arboretum.

On the April, May, June, July, August u We enjoy a scenic tour of Snowdonia, & September Tours we include: making a stop in Betws-y-Coed where u We enjoy the journey to the Isle of we have time to explore. From here we Anglesey, steeped in a rich continue to Porthmadog for some free archaeological and historical heritage time before returning to the hotel. and is home to picturesque villages and scenic bays. During our day we

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 22ND FEBRUARY

5

Merrion

‘Food Glorious Food’

5

NIL

Tynedale

Landlubbers Cruise

MONDAY 4TH APRIL

5

£289 £289 £369 £349 £399 £359 £409 £349 £339 £329

NIL

THURSDAY 3RD MARCH

£44.00

Merrion

FRIDAY 6TH MAY

5

MONDAY 27TH JUNE

5

WEDNESDAY 13TH JULY

5

MONDAY 22ND AUGUST

5

WEDNESDAY 14TH SEPTEMBER

5

MONDAY 7TH NOVEMBER

5

SUNDAY 11TH DECEMBER

5

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

HOTEL

NIL

Tynedale

£44.00

Merrion

NIL

Tynedale

THEME

£44.00

Merrion

NIL

Tynedale

NIL

Merrion

Turkey & Tinsel

NIL

Tynedale

Holly & Mistletoe

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WALES

The Tynedale Hotel is situated in a prime sea-front position, on the central promenade a popular hotel for its theme breaks and high quality cooking. All of the bedrooms have private facilities with colour TV, telephone, hairdryer, central heating and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Bar and Lift.

Why not escape the winter blues and join in the fun with one of these themed breaks ~ ‘Food Glorious Food’ break in February at The Merrion Hotel or a ‘Llandudno Landlubbers Cruise’ in March at The Tynedale Hotel.

Service is Great Value: Remember our ‘Door to Door’ * n perso Included worth £35 per

Jersey By Air C HA NNEL I SLA ND S

Jersey ~ Sparkling seas, golden sands, rugged cliffs, picturesque harbours and fascinating countryside await you. Jersey has long been the haunt of the discerning holidaymaker – the island of flowers and friendliness. Jersey offers a continental feel yet there are no currency or language problems to worry about.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

For the 5 Day Breaks: u Door to Door Service u Transfers to/from Airport in Manchester & Jersey u Return Flight from Manchester to Jersey u 4 nights accommodation at chosen hotel u Breakfasts & Evening Meals Daily u Services of local representative during your stay

For the 8 Day Breaks: u Door to Door Service u Transfers to/from Airport in Manchester & Jersey u Return Flight from Manchester to Jersey u Meet and Greet service on arrival at Jersey Airport u 7 nights accommodation at chosen hotel u Breakfasts & Evening Meals Daily u Services of local representative during your stay

STAFFORD HOTEL, ST. HELIER HOTEL HH

MONTEREY HOTEL, ST. HELIER HHH

A family run hotel situated in the centre of St. Helier within easy walking distance of the main shopping area and the beautiful beach of St. Aubin’s Bay. The attractive en-suite bedrooms are well equipped with colour television, direct dial telephone, hairdryer, central heating and tea/coffee makers. The hotel also offers two Restaurants, two bars, games room and comfortable lounge areas.

Being part of the Revere Group residents at the hotel have the opportunity to enjoy the Revere’s Swimming Pool facility next door.

Lift.

A fine hotel with excellent facilities situated within walking distance (750m) of the town centre. A friendly informal hotel where good value is the order of the day. All the bedrooms have private facilities with TV, Hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Lounge, Bar, Indoor & Outdoor Swimming Pools, some entertainment & Lift.

RUNNYMEDE COURT HOTEL, ST. HELIER HH

Situated in one of St. Helier’s best residential areas, the hotel is only half a mile away from the town, shops and beaches. All the bedrooms have private facilities with TV and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Lounge, Bar, Indoor Swimming Pool, some entertainment and Lift.

A lovely Edwardian 2 star hotel approximately 10 minutes walk to the town and just 250 yards from the beach, promenade and bathing pool at Havre des Pas. All of the comfortable bedrooms are en-suite and are equipped with TV, direct dial telephone and tea/coffee making facilities. Please Note: Some of the bedrooms are of a chalet type which are located out of the main building around a beautiful garden and there is a covered walkway. The hotel offers a restaurant and bar.

Lift.

FORT D’AUVERGNE HOTEL, ST. HELIER HHH

HOTEL AMBASSADEUR, ST. CLEMENTS HHH

The Fort D’Auvergne Hotel is bordered by the sea and sandy beach on two sides and occupies what is one of the best maritime positions in St. Helier, and is approx. a 20 minute walk into town. There is also a bus stop directly outside the hotel. All of the comfortable bedrooms are en-suite and have TV, telephone and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a restaurant, lounge, bar and indoor swimming pool. Lift.

A lovely hotel located on the coast road overlooking the fine sweep of St. Clements Bay with its fine sandy beach. Approximately 1 mile from St. Helier, the hotel is served by a main bus route. All bedrooms are en-suite and offer colour TV, direct dial telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Cocktail Bar, Lounge and Outdoor Swimming Pool. Lift.

NORFOLK LODGE HOTEL, ST. HELIER HOTEL HHH

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DEPARTING EVERY MONDAY x 4 NIGHTS (5 DAYS)

STAFFORD PRICE PER PERSON

NORFOLK LODGE PRICE PER PERSON

FORT D’AUVERGNE PRICE PER PERSON

MONTEREY PRICE PER PERSON

MAY: 2ND; 9TH; 16TH

£425

£459

£459

£475

MAY: 23RD; 30TH

£451

£481

£481

£495

JUNE: 6TH; 13TH; 20TH; 27TH

£451

£481

£481

£495

JULY: 4TH; 11TH;

£459

£481

£481

£495

JULY: 18TH; 25TH

£459

£501

£501

£515

AUGUST: 1ST; 8TH; 15TH

£459

£501

£501

£515

AUGUST: 22ND; 29TH

£451

£481

£481

£495

SEPTEMBER: 5TH; 12TH

£451

£481

£481

£495

SEPTEMBER: 19TH; 26TH

£425

£459

£459

£475

Single Supplements: The Stafford Hotel: £40.00 The Norfolk Lodge Hotel: Nil The Hotel For D’Auvergne: Nil Montery Hotel: Nil Sea View Supplement: The Hotel Fort D’Auvergne: £20.00 per person Sea View & Balcony Supplement: The Hotel Fort D’Auvergne: £28.00 per person

DEPOSIT REQUIRED FOR THESE TOURS: £150.00 per person Obligatory Requirements for travelling to The Channel Islands: Travel Insurance. Please be aware that for security purposes when travelling to Jersey you are now required to carry some form of photographic identification (e.g. Driving Licence with photo on it; Passport etc).

RUNNYMEDE PRICE PER PERSON

NORFOLK LODGE PRICE PER PERSON

FORT D’AUVERGNE PRICE PER PERSON

MONTEREY PRICE PER PERSON

AMBASSADEUR PRICE PER PERSON

APRIL: 30TH

£529 £545 £545 £569 £569 £589 £589 £609 £609 £609 £589 £589 £525 £525 £515

£595 £595 £635 £635 £635 £635 £675 £675 £675 £635 £635 £635 £635 £595 £595

£595 £595 £635 £635 £635 £635 £675 £675 £675 £635 £635 £635 £635 £595 £595

£625 £625 £665 £665 £665 £665 £699 £699 £699 £665 £665 £665 £665 £625 £625

£585 £585 £619 £619 £635 ** £635 £635 £669 £669 £635 £635 £635 £589 £559 £559

MAY: 7TH; 14TH MAY: 21ST; 28TH JUNE: 4TH JUNE: 11TH; 18TH; 25TH JULY: 2ND; 9TH JULY: 16TH; 23RD JULY: 30TH AUGUST: 6TH; 13TH AUGUST: 20TH AUGUST 27TH SEPTEMBER: 3RD SEPTEMBER: 10TH SEPTEMBER: 17TH SEPTEMBER: 24TH

C HA NNEL I SLA ND S

DEPARTING EVERY SATURDAY x 7 NIGHTS (8 DAYS)

** 25th June 2016 NOT AVAILABLE at The Ambassadeur Hotel Single Supplements: Runnymede Court Hotel: Nil The Norfolk Lodge Hotel: Nil The Hotel For D’Auvergne: Nil Montery Hotel: Nil Hotel Ambassadeur: £56.00 Sea View Supplement: The Hotel Fort D’Auvergne: £35.00 per person Hotel Ambassadeur: £49.00 per person Sea View & Balcony Supplement: The Hotel Fort D’Auvergne: £49.00 per person

DEPOSIT REQUIRED FOR THESE TOURS: £150.00 per person Obligatory Requirements for travelling to The Channel Islands: Travel Insurance. Please be aware that for security purposes when travelling to Jersey you are now required to carry some form of photographic identification (e.g. Driving Licence with photo on it; Passport etc). * e.g. Based on 2 people travelling from the Prestwich/Whitefield area to Manchester Airport and return

N.B. The coach on Jersey may not be of an Executive Standard. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be aware that on the 5 Day breaks there may be a flight supplement to pay, you will be advised of this upon booking. As we haven’t done the 5 day flight holidays before, reluctantly the airline won’t allow us to secure any seats beforehand. For our 8 Day holidays to Jersey we have managed to secure 10 flight seats on each date and therefore there will be nothing extra to pay unless these first 10 seats have already been sold and then there may be a supplement to pay for which we will inform you upon booking.

PLEASE NOTE: The Jersey by Air Tours are NOT protected under our BCHG Bonding (details on page 2), they are however protected under A.T.O.L, as mentioned below.

Ellen Smith Tours Ltd act as retail agents for Destination Specialists - A.T.O.L No: 9503.

Destination Specialists Terms & Conditions Apply. A copy of these will be sent to you with your ATOL Receipt once received by us. If you require a copy of Destination Specialists Terms & Conditions prior to booking please ask a member of our staff.

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

59

’ service is Great Value - Remember: Our ‘Door to Door * n Included worth £35 per perso

Guernsey By Air C HA NNEL I SLA ND S

A heady mix of stunning scenery and the best of contemporary living, Guernsey is the perfect destination. Inspiring walks along the cliff paths, rambles through the rural interior or lazy days on the island’s beautiful beaches, Guernsey has it all.

St Peter Port, the island’s capital, is a bustling harbour town, a tapestry of architectural styles that tell the story of the region’s changing fortunes.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Door to Door Service u Transfers to/from Airport in Manchester & Guernsey u Return Flight from Manchester to Guernsey u Meet and Greet service on arrival at Guernsey Airport u 7 nights accommodation at chosen hotel u Breakfasts & Evening Meals Daily u Services of local representative during your stay N.B. The coach on Guernsey may not be of an Executive Standard.

PLEASE NOTE: Flight supplements may apply PLEASE NOTE: The Guernsey by Air Tours are NOT protected under our BCHG Bonding (details on page 2), they are protected under A.T.O.L, as mentioned below.

Ellen Smith Tours Ltd act as retail agents for Destination Specialists - A.T.O.L No: 9503. Destination Specialists Terms & Conditions Apply. A copy of these will be sent to you with your ATOL Receipt once received by us.

PANDORA HOTEL, ST. PETER PORT HH The Pandora Hotel is conveniently situated in an elevated position within a 10-15 minute stroll of the centre of St. Peter Port. Set in the historic quarter of the town, the Pandora is next door to the house of the exiled French novelist, Victor Hugo. All the bedrooms have private facilities with colour TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant, Bar & Garden. Sorry No Lift, but hotel does have some ground floor bedrooms.

HOUGUE DU POMMIER HOTEL, CASTEL HHH A quiet 3 star hotel centred around a charming old Guernsey farmhouse dating back to 1712 set within 8 acres of beautiful gardens, in the rural parish of Castel and is just 10 minutes walk from the west coast beaches and a 10 minute drive to the capital of St. Peter Port. All bedrooms are en-suite and feature colour TV, telephone and tea/coffee makers. The hotel offers a Restaurant, bar and outdoor swimming pool. Sorry No Lift, but the hotel does have some ground floor bedrooms.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PANDORA PRICE PER PERSON

HOUGE DU POMMIER PRICE PER PERSON

£669 £669 £669 £669

APRIL: 30TH

8

MAY: 7TH; 14TH; 21ST

8

MAY: 28TH

8

JUNE: 4TH; 11TH; 18TH; 25TH

8

£635 £635 £645 £645

JULY: 2ND; 9TH; 16TH; 23RD; 30TH

8

£655

£685

AUGUST: 6TH; 13TH; 20TH; 27TH

8

£655

£685

SEPTEMBER: 3RD; 10TH; 17TH; 24TH

8

£645

£685

Single Supplements: The Pandora Hotel: Nil Hougue Du Pommier: April - £70.00; May - £105.00; June & Sept - £140.00; July & Aug - £175.00

DEPOSIT REQUIRED FOR THESE TOURS: £150.00 per person Obligatory Requirements for travelling to The Channel Islands: Travel Insurance. Please be aware that for security purposes when travelling to Guernsey you are now required to carry some form of photographic identification (e.g. Driving Licence with photo on it; Passport etc). * e.g. Based on 2 people travelling from the Prestwich/Whitefield area to Manchester Airport and return

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Boulogne Beaches & Baguettes, France IBIS BOULOGNE SUR MER LES PORTS HOTEL HHH The hotel is located right in the city centre, 10 minutes from the railway station and 5 minutes from the casino. All of the bedrooms are ensuite and have TV, telephone, wifi, air-conditioning and hairdryer. The hotel offers a restaurant and bar. Lift.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Return Ferry, Dover – Calais u 90 Minute Guided Coach Tour of Boulogne u Free Time at Leisure in Boulogne to explore u Excursion to the chic resort of Le Touquet and return to the hotel via the flower bedecked resort of Berck-Plage

ITINERARY

golf club and racecourse. Spend some u Friday: time wandering the streets with their We enjoy our outward journey making chic boutiques and designer shops and suitable stops en-route to Dover in visit the markets for a wonderful time for our ferry to Calais. From here shopping experience. Following our we continue the journey to Boulogne free time here we re-join the coach and on to our hotel. Evening at leisure. and return to the hotel via the flower u Saturday: bedecked resort of Berck-Plage.

Following breakfast we head for the Evening at leisure. chic resort of Le Touquet, which has long been a favourite with the English u Sunday: After breakfast today we meet our & the French, seeking to spend time in guide for a tour of Boulogne. We will its renowned elegance and great then have free time to explore this atmosphere. As well as a fantastic charming town to maybe visit the old beach, the town is home to a casino, town, where the foundations date back to medieval times and marvel at the 11th century Belfry which still stands. Also, not to be missed is the Basilica de Notre-Dame with its 101 metre high dome and history-filled crypt, the longest in France at 128 metres, with columns also dating back to the 11th century. Evening at leisure. u Monday: Following breakfast we leave the hotel and make our way back to Calais in time for our ferry back to Dover, from where we continue our journey home.

© Flickr - openroads.com

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

FRIDAY 4TH MARCH

4

£189

£42.00

Meal Arrangements: 3 x Breakfasts included Please Note: Evening Meals are NOT included.

Obligatory Requirements: Passport & Travel Insurance. A Visa may be required for Non-British Passport Holders. It is also advisable to carry a EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) with you.

Currency: Euro’s There will be a very early pick-up for the outward journey

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

61

C O N T I N E N TA L

Boulogne is an undiscovered gem of France, a classic port town with much history and culuture which can be seen in the wonderful old town, yet it has all modern shops and restaurants.

We also visit the chic resort of Le Touquet.

Steaming through the Dutch Bulbfields

PRINCESS HOTEL AMERSFOORT (FORMERLY GOLDEN TULIP) HHH

C O N T I N E N TA L

This 3 star standard hotel is located in a green wooded area close to the town of Amersfoort, 25km to the east of Amsterdam. All bedrooms are en-suite and have LCD TV, telephone and free wireless internet.

The hotel offers a Restaurant, Lounge/Bar and Terrace Garden. Lift.

Keukenhof Flower Gardens, once a modest little herb garden, is now where the Dutch bulb growing industry stage their annual petal spectacular attracting thousands of visitors from all over the world. Each year between March and May, seven million bulbs planted across 70 acres burst into bloom. Not just tulips, but daffodils, hyacinths, narcissi and crocuses too!

We have also included a fantastic day excursion featuring a one way cruise from Enkhuizen to Medemblik on the museum ship Friesland, and a steam train journey through the Dutch countryside including the blooming bulbfields.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Dover – Calais, return ferry u 3 nights half-board at the hotel u Entrance to Keukenhof Gardens u One Way Enkhuizen to Medemblik cruise on the museum ship Friesland u One Way Medemblik to Hoorn steam train journey u As you steam through the Dutch countryside marvel at the bulbfields in full bloom!

ITINERARY:

u Friday: We enjoy our outward journey making suitable stops en-route to Dover, in time for our ferry to France. From Calais we make the journey into Holland and on to the hotel in Amersfoort. u Saturday: Following breakfast this morning we make our way to Keukenhof Gardens for our included visit. Over 50 years of displaying its floral art with a different theme every year and a fresh look every day, it has developed into a showcase for the flower bulb and ornamental plant industry. u Sunday: After breakfast this morning we travel

across Houtribdijk, a 17 mile dike built between 1963 and 1975. Watch out for the radio station half way! Arriving in Enkhuizen we board the museum ship Friesland for a cruise to Medemblik, where we enjoy some free time before boarding the steam Train to Hoorn. Wooden carriages creak, wheels sing and steam hisses as you travel through the Dutch countryside marvelling at the bulbfields, which should be in full bloom! u Monday: Following breakfast we leave the hotel and make our way back to Calais in time for our ferry back to Dover, from where we continue our journey home.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

FRIDAY 29TH APRIL

4

£279

£62.00

Obligatory Requirements: Passport & Travel Insurance. A Visa may be required for Non-British Passport Holders. It is also advisable to carry a EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) with you.

Currency: Euro’s There will be a very early pick-up for the outward journey

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9 DAYS

Treasures of Tuscany & Florence OVERNIGHT HOTEL ON THE OUTWARD & RETURN JOURNEYS: IBIS MULHOUSE CENTRE FILATURE HHH MAIN HOTEL: HOTEL ERCOLINI & SAVI, MONTECATINI HHHH

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

The Hotel Ercolini & Savi is centrally located close to the shops & spas and is built in a traditional Tuscan style, owned by the same family since 1910. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and are equipped with satellite TV, Wifi, safe, direct dial telephone and hairdryer. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar, TV Lounge and small terrace. Lift.

u Beautiful Florence by Train u Puccini’s birthplace ~ Lucca u Pisa ~ with its Leaning Tower u Medieval Town of San Gimignano u Medieval Town of Siena u Tuscan Riviera & Marble Mountains

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED belltower is a must. Following free Florence by Train time here we continue to Pisa, where u One of Italy’s most beautiful cities! We the Leaning Tower is still one of Italy’s make the short walk (approx. 400 most recognisable monuments metres) to the station in time for our (Admission not included as there are a train which will transport us into the number of steps. Tickets cost approx. centre of Florence within an hour. On €15). Here you will find many other arrival, we meet up with our guide for exceptional buildings nearby in a short walking tour of this fabulous Miracles Square, such as the cathedral city followed by free time to explore. and baptistery.

Maybe take time to visit the Piazza Siena & San Gimignano della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, The u Siena remains largely unchanged Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio or the from its 14th century heyday with fine Academy of Fine Arts which houses buildings such as the Town Hall and Michelangelo’s ‘David’. We return to the Mangia Tower. It is famous for the the station for our train back to epic ‘Palio’ horse race which takes Montecatini. place in the heart shaped Piazza del Pisa & Lucca Campo. San Gimignano is a well u First of all we head to Lucca, birthplace preserved medieval town with a of Puccini. The city has retained much skyline of 14 grey stone towers and of its original charm and a walk the region is well known for its Chianti around the old town surrounded by wines. pink-brown ramparts is recommended and also a look at the Duomo San Martino with its 13th century

Tuscan Riviera & Marble Mountains u Home to some of the most exclusive beach resorts in Italy, the most popular being Viareggio, where we make a stop with time to explore. We then venture to the Marina di Pietrasanta with its delightful historic old town. Following this visit we then drive past the Carrara basin overlooked by the white marble peaks of the Apuan Alps before our return to Montecatini.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

FRIDAY 24TH JUNE

9

£689

£110.00

Obligatory Requirements: Passport & Travel Insurance. A Visa may be required for Non-British Passport Holders. It is also advisable to carry a EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) with you.

Currency: Euro’s There will be a very early pick-up for the outward journey

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

63

C O N T I N E N TA L

One of Italy’s most beautiful regions and an outstanding area of natural beauty, renowned for its excellent cuisine and glorious wines, where historic cities are set amidst rolling hills and olive groves. Our tour is based in the popular spa town of Montecatini, an ideal base from which to explore the region as well as the major art cities of Florence and Pisa.

10 DAYS

OVERNIGHT ON THE OUTWARD & RETURN JOURNEYS: Brittany Ferries – UK/Santander, in inside cabins with private facilities.

Cantabria and the Picos de Europa

HOTEL OLIMPO, ISLA HHHH

C O N T I N E N TA L

This elegant hotel is situated on a small peninsula above a beautiful beach with the village of Isla being approximately a 10 minute walk away. All of the en-suite bedrooms have either a balcony or a terrace with lovely views of the sea, the lake, the mountains or the hotel gardens.

Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, terrace, sauna & tennis court. There is a restaurant and large cafeteria. Lift.

Cantabria in Northern Spain offers a stunning coastline, elegant resorts and peaceful fishing villages as well as deep valleys with villages untouched by time, forested hills and the beautiful Picos de Europa Mountains. All in all an interesting and relaxing holiday in beautiful surroundings.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Return Overnight Ferry Crossing u Breakfasts & Evening Meals included on-board the Ferry both ways u Welcome Drink & Appetisers at Hotel u Mineral Water & House Wine with Dinner at the hotel Included u Tea/Coffee after Evening Meals at the hotel u ‘Happy Hour’ in the hotel cafeteria each day between 5pm & 7pm u Special Farewell Dinner with Rioja red wine, white wine and Potes Liquor at the hotel u Day Excursions as detailed

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED Excursions Included whilst in resort: u We enjoy a full day to the Picos de Europa National Park, which is home to some of Spain’s most striking mountains. Our first stop is in the beautiful village of San Vicente de la Barquera with its charming old town.

We also call in at Potes, a lively market town, also known as the town of bridges as it stands at the point where the Rivers Deva & Quiviesa converge.

The streets here are narrow with a number of interesting shops as well as bars, cafes & restaurants. u Our first stop of the day is in Santillana del Mar. Despite what the name suggests Santillana is not located on the coast but is instead a few miles inland. The town is best described as a living museum, with its medieval centre and wonderfully preserved buildings. It is said to be one of the best preserved towns in the whole of Spain. Santillana centre

64

streets are almost traffic free and are constructed of large cobbles. In the afternoon we make a visit to the charming town of Comillas, a lovely fishing village known as the ‘City of Archbishops’. The town has much of interest and the skyline is dominated by an impressive building of what used to be the Pontificial University.

Also within this small historic town is the Palace of Sobrellano and the Caprice, built by the inspired Catalan architect Antonio Gaudi upon the request of the Marquis of Comillas. u An excursion which takes us to La Rioja region. The area is filled with historic and religious architecture and is located on the pilgrim’s route to Santiago de Compostela – even today pilgrims can be seen walking along the route. Our first stop is in the old town of Haro, located at the very heart of La Rioja wine country, with its historic and artistic interest. In the afternoon

we make our way to Laguardia, while technically outside La Rioja, is a largely undiscovered small walled town which is beautifully preserved. u We enjoy a short excursion to the nearby village of Castro Urdiales, the easternmost town on the coast of Cantabria. The narrow streets of the old quarter are very charming and many of the taverns offer typical fish dishes of the region. u A visit to San Sebastien, capital of the Basque Region. It has a vibrant centre

with a wealth of historic buildings and a wonderful old town. u A lazy morning to enjoy the facilities of the hotel or possibly for a walk on the long sandy beach before our afternoon visit to Santander, a coastal city and important port. Visit the fisherman’s quarter which offers a lively atmosphere with pavement cafes and typical taverns, stroll along the beautiful beaches, explore the city or relax in a lush green park.

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT (HOTEL ONLY)

TUESDAY 6TH SEPTEMBER

10

£789

£119.60

Ferry Supplements: Inside Cabin (Sole Occupancy) £55.00 per person, return (in addition to single room supplement) Low Berth Cabin (2 Sharing) £44.00 per person, return Outside Low Berth Cabin (2 Sharing) £68.00 per person, return Outside Cabin (Sole Occupancy) £295.00 per person, return Obligatory Requirements: Passport & Travel Insurance. A Visa may be required for Non-British Passport holders.

It is also advisable to take a EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) with you when travelling to the Continent.

www.ellensmith.co.uk

Currency: Euro’s

NEW TOUR

Alpine Brass Music Festival

Novotel Metz Hauconcourt Hotel, Metz, France ~ set 3 course Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

MAIN HOTEL: HOTEL ALEXANDER, KIRCHBERG, AUSTRIA HHHH This 4 star hotel is surrounded by the mountains of the Kitzbühel Alps with a direct view of the Hahnenkamm. All of the Alpine style bedrooms are en-suite and are equipped with hairdryer, alarm clock, TV and telephone. The hotel offers a restaurant and lounge bar. Lift.

Please Note: Twin rooms may be ‘Austrian’ Twins which usually consist of a double bed base with single mattresses and separate bedding.

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

u Tuesday: After being picked up from home we make the journey to Dover in time for our ferry to France. On arrival in Calais we re-join our coach and make our way to our overnight hotel. u Wednesday: Following breakfast we leave the hotel, continue our journey to Kirchberg and on to the Hotel Alexander. u Thursday: Following breakfast this morning we enjoy a Tyrolean excursion making a stop in Zell am See. We head back to the hotel in plenty of time for dinner then we are taken to Ellmau where we head for the Festival Tent for the official opening evening of this music extravaganza.

Later in the evening our coach will transport you back to the hotel. u Friday: After breakfast this morning we are whisked up into the heart of the Kitzbühel Alps by the Hartkaiserbahn Gondola Lift, where you will be entertained on the mountain top by traditional local musicians. Dance & sing to the backdrop of 360 degree panoramic views of surrounding peaks. We return

to the hotel in time for dinner. u Saturday: Following breakfast today we once again head to Ellmau for today’s colourful procession. See regional and international bands accompanied by local associations such as national costume groups, riflemen and young farmers, all in their traditional outfits, march through the streets of Ellmau for this extraordinary parade. Visit the local Farmers’ Market, see traditional handicrafts, perhaps try some regional culinary delights and enjoy entertainment by local singers and musicians. Dinner at the hotel followed by an unparalleled final evening of entertainment in the Festival Tent in Ellmau tonight. u Sunday: After breakfast this morning we leave Austria and make our way back to France and onto our overnight hotel in Metz. u Monday: Following breakfast we make our way back to Calais in time for our ferry back to Dover, and make our journey home.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Entrance to Festival Tent in Ellmau with live entertainment on 3 evenings u Ascent & descent with the Hartkaiserbahn Gondola Lift in Ellmau u Entrance to a morning Mountain Party with live music u Visit a colourful Procession in Ellmau u Visit to a Farmers’ Market in Ellmau DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

TUESDAY 11TH OCTOBER

7

£549

£85.00

Obligatory Requirements: Passport & Travel Insurance. A Visa may be required for Non-British Passport holders. It is also advisable to carry a EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) with you.

Currency: Euro’s There will be a very early pick-up for the outward journey

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

65

C O N T I N E N TA L

‘Don’t miss this amazing musical experience: see local, national and International brass bands, each with their own music genre, perform at this unique festival in the picturesque village of Ellmau. This combination of wonderful entertainment, colourful processions and stunning Tyrolean scenery promises to be an unforgettable and unique experience.’ ‘Up to 10 brass bands from various corners of Europe will reveal the diversity of this everpopular music, from traditional bands to swing and the big band sound, from classic and folk to rock and pop. Top professional bands, creating a lively atmosphere, are on the programme in a special decorative (and heated) festival tent, with rustic wooden floors, tables and benches, friendly service and an excellent selection of beverages set the scene.’

OVERNIGHT HOTEL ON THE OUTWARD & RETURN JOURNEY:

Valkenburg, Maastricht

BEST WESTERN HOTEL WALRAM, VALKENBURG HHH A stylish hotel located on the banks of the Geul River in a tranquil setting in the Limburg Hills, with the picturesque town of Valkenburg directly in front of you. All of the bedrooms are en-suite and have television, clock radio and hairdryer. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar, lounge, reading room, indoor swimming pool, sauna and solarium. Lift.

& Aachen Christmas Markets

C O N T I N E N TA L

Why not get into the Festive spirit visiting two countries and three Christmas Markets. Our tour is based in Valkenburg, so we have the ideal opportunity to visit the fabulous Christmas Market in the Velvet Cave with its exquisite Christmas lighting, quality gifts for sale, stalls that demonstrate Dutch trade and hand crafts as well as live musical entertainment and an underground ‘catering garden’. A Winter Wonderland takes place in Maastricht’s Vrijthof Square – a cosy Christmas Market with a Magical feel.

Aachen is host to a lively market which is nestled between the magnificent cathedral and impressive Town Hall which transforms the city into a fabulous Christmas City that entices the young & old alike.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

u Valkenburg Christmas Market u Maastricht Christmas Market u Aachen Christmas Market

EXCURSIONS INCLUDED

u We enjoy a full day at leisure in Valkenburg, sometimes called ‘Marlstone Town’ because of the lime found in the soil and the soft yellow

66

marlstone which has, since Roman times, been quarried as building material. There is plenty to keep you occupied and we also include a visit to the Velvet Cave for the Christmas Market with its exquisite Christmas lighting. u We enjoy an excursion which takes us to Maastricht, the southernmost city in the Netherlands. Here we have free time to explore this Winter Wonderland with some lovely sights and experiences. u We make our way into Germany and onto Aachen to enjoy some free time to explore this great old town which is transformed into a fabulous Christmas City with many stalls offering traditional and original gifts and is famous for its Printenmann (gingerbread).

DEPARTURE

DAYS

PRICE PER PERSON

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

MONDAY 28TH NOVEMBER

5

£309

£48.00

Obligatory Requirements: Passport & Travel Insurance. A Visa may be required for Non-British Passport Holders. It is also advisable to take a EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) with you.

Currency: Euro’s Please Note: When visiting the Christmas Market in The Velvet Cave, Valkenburg it is not possible to use a bank card in all of the shops.

There will be a very early pick-up for the outward journey

www.ellensmith.co.uk

TOURS DIARY 2016 JANUARY DEPART

DAYS

Mon 4th Mon 11th Mon 11th Mon 11th Sun 17th Mon 25th Fri 29th

5 5 5 5 5 5 3

DESTINATION

PAGE

Paignton North Devon Bournemouth Oban Houseparty Mystery The English Riviera ~ Torquay The Legendary Joe Loss Orchestra in Hampshire

12 15 16 50 8 13 19

FEBRUARY DEPART

DAYS

Mon 1st Mon 1st

5 5

Mon 1st

5

Mon 8th Mon 8th Thur 11th Mon 15th Mon 15th Mon 22nd Mon 22nd Fri 26th Sat 27th Mon 29th

5 5 5 5 5 5 5 3 5 5

DESTINATION

PAGE

Blackpool 35 Cumbria, Northumbria & The Scottish Borders 39 The Beautiful Scottish Borders & Edinburgh 48 Bournemouth 16 ‘Highland Party’ Isles of Glencoe 52 A Cornish ‘Winter Warmer’ 9 Looe, Cornwall 11 The English Riviera ~ Torquay 13 Eastbourne 21 Llandudno 57 Yorkshire Snowdrops 37 Babbacombe 14 Bournemouth 16

MARCH DAYS

Thu 3rd Thu 3rd Fri 4th

5 5 4

Mon 7th Mon 7th Thu 10th Fri 11th Mon 14th Mon 14th Sun 20th Mon 21st Fri 25th

5 5 4 3 5 5 5 5 4

Fri 25th

4

Mon 25th

4

Mon 28th

5

DESTINATION

PAGE

Drymen Llandudno Boulogne ~ Beaches & Baguettes, France Paignton Blackpool Coast & Country Weekend York Winter Weekend Newquay ‘Mature Singles’ ~ Cornwall Mystery Scenic Snowdonia Thames Valley, & Windsor for Easter Easter – Surprising Shires of Middle England Easter ~ Norfolk City, Coast & Country The English Riviera ~ Torquay

51 57 61 12 35 26 37 12 40 8 56 23 29 32 13

APRIL DEPART

DAYS

Sun 3rd Mon 4th Thu 7th Mon 11th Mon 11th Mon 11th Mon 11th

5 5 5 5 5 5 5

Mon 11th Mon 18th Mon 18th Wed 20th Sat 23rd Sat 23rd Sun 24th Mon 25th Thu 26th Fri 29th

5 5 5 6 6 7 5 5 5 4

Sat 30th Sat 30th

8 8

DESTINATION

PAGE

Worcester Wonders Llandudno Tenby The English Riviera ~ Torquay Bournemouth Isle of Wight ‘Mature Singles’ ~ Lake District & Scottish Borders Exploring the beauty of Mid Wales Northumberland & The North East Whisky & Castles Poldark’s Cornwall The Spring of Kerry The Inner Hebridean Island Hopper Constable Country & East Anglia St. Annes-on-Sea Drymen Steaming through the Dutch Bulbfields Jersey by Air Guernsey By Air

31 57 55 13 16 18 40 56 38 50 9 43 53 28 34 51 62 58 60

MAY DEPART

DAYS

Mon 2nd Mon 2nd

5 5

Mon 2nd Mon 2nd

5 5

Thu 5th

10

Fri 6th Sat 7th Sat 7th Sat 7th Mon 9th Thu 12th Sat 14th

5 8 8 8 5 5 17

DESTINATION Blackpool Cumbria, Northumbria & The Scottish Borders Jersey By Air The Beautiful Scottish Borders & Edinburgh Fred.Olsen Waterfalls, Fjords & Glaciers Llandudno Eastbourne Jersey by Air Guernsey By Air Looe, Cornwall Scarborough Fred.Olsen

PAGE 35 39 58 48 5 57 21 58 60 11 36

8 8 5 5 4 8 8 4 5 5 5

Fri 27th Sat 28th Sat 28th Sun 29th Mon 30th Mon 30th

6 8 8 5 5 5

Rugged & Rural Canada Jersey by Air Guernsey By Air Sidmouth North & South of Ireland Thames Tales 4 Cruises & A River Jersey by Air Guernsey By Air Royal Windsor, Castle & Cruise Bournemouth Jersey by Air ‘Mature Singles’ ~ Heart of England & The Cotswolds Isle of Wight Jersey by Air Guernsey By Air Discover the Cotswolds North Devon St. Annes-on-Sea

6 58 60 14 46 23 58 60 26 16 58 41 18 58 60 27 15 34

JUNE DEPART

DAYS

Thu 2nd Sat 4th Sat 4th Sun 5th Sun 5th Sun 5th Mon 6th

5 8 8 5 6 5 26

Sat 11th Sat 11th Sun 12th

8 8 6

Sun 12th Sun 12th Sat 18th Sat 18th Sun 19th Sun 19th Fri 24th

6 5 8 8 5 6 4

Fri 24th Sat 25th Sat 25th Mon 27th

9 8 8 5

Mon 27th Mon 27th

5 5

DESTINATION

PAGE

Althorp and Other Gems 29 Jersey by Air 58 Guernsey By Air 60 Exploring the beauty of Mid Wales 56 The English Riviera ~ Torquay 13 Northern Ireland Explorer 47 Fred.Olsen Islands of the Adriatic with Venice 6 Jersey by Air 58 Guernsey By Air 60 Bournemouth & A Channel Island Experience 17 Eastbourne 21 Royal Norfolk & The Broads 32 Jersey by Air 58 Guernsey By Air 60 Mystery 8 Orkney & Shetland Mini-Cruise 54 Woburn Abbey, Bletchley Park & Cambridge 28 Treasures of Tuscany & Florence 63 Jersey by Air 58 Guernsey By Air 60 Riches & Grandeur of Middle England 30 Dunoon & Exploring the Lochs 49 Llandudno 57

JULY

Sun 14th Sun 14th Mon 15th Sat 20th Sat 20th Mon 22nd Mon 22nd

6 8 5 8 8 5 5

Mon 22nd Mon 22nd Wed 24th Sat 27th Sat 27th Sun 28th Sun 28th Mon 29th

5 5 3 8 8 5 5 9

Cornwall & The Eden Project 10 Dorset 17 Exploring Dumfries & Galloway 48 Jersey by Air 58 Guernsey By Air 60 Norfolk Seals, Coast & City 33 Cumbria, Northumbria & The Scottish Borders 39 Llandudno 57 Jersey By Air 58 Highclere Castle ~ Downton Abbey 20 Jersey by Air 58 Guernsey By Air 60 Mystery 8 Wild Atlantic Way 44 Fred.Olsen ~ Norwegian Fjords & The Orkney Isles 6

SEPTEMBER DEPART

DAYS

Sat 3rd Sat 3rd Sat 3rd Sun 4th

6 8 8 4

Tue 6th Thur 8th Sat 10th Sat 10th Mon 12th

10 5 8 8 5

Mon 12th

6

Wed 14th Sat 17th Sat 17th Sat 17th Sun 18th

5 8 8 8 6

Mon 19th Mon 19th Tue 20th Sat 24th Sat 24th Sun 25th Mon 26th Mon 26th Fri 30th

5 5 5 8 8 6 5 5 9

DESTINATION

PAGE

Isle of Wight Jersey by Air Guernsey By Air Discovering Rutland & The Vale of Belvoir Cantabria and the Picos de Europa Royal Landmarks of London Jersey by Air Guernsey By Air ‘Mature Singles’ ~ The Sunny South East of Ireland & Dublin Galway, Connemara & A Lake Cruise Llandudno Jersey by Air Guernsey By Air Eastbourne Bournemouth & A Channel Island Experience Dunoon & Exploring the Lochs Jersey By Air Sidmouth Jersey by Air Guernsey By Air The English Riviera ~ Torquay Blackpool Whisky & Castles Fred.Olsen A French & Spanish Escape

18 58 60 30 64 25 58 60 42 45 57 58 60 21 17 49 58 14 58 60 13 35 50 7

OCTOBER

DEPART

DAYS

Sat 2nd Sat 2nd Mon 4th Mon 4th Mon 4th Sat 9th Sat 9th Sun 10th Sun 10th Mon 11th Wed 13th Sat 16th Sat 16th Sun 17th

8 8 5 5 5 8 8 6 6 5 5 8 8 5

Sun 17th Mon 18th Mon 18th Mon 18th Thu 21st Sat 23rd Sat 23rd Sun 24th

6 5 5 5 5 8 8 5

Tue 26th Thu 28th Sat 30th Sat 30th Sat 30th Sun 31st

5 5 8 8 8 6

DESTINATION

PAGE

Jersey by Air 58 Guernsey By Air 60 Discovering Lincolnshire 34 Northumberland & The North East 38 Jersey By Air 58 Jersey by Air 58 Guernsey By Air 60 The English Riviera ~ Torquay 13 Dorset 17 Mystery 8 Llandudno 57 Jersey by Air 58 Guernsey By Air 60 Kent Gardens, Wines & Railway Lines 22 Blackpool 35 Longleat, Stonehenge 20 Discovering Shropshire 31 Jersey By Air 58 The New Forest, Winchester 19 Jersey by Air 58 Guernsey By Air 60 ‘Mature Singles’ ~ A Welsh Castle & Gardens 41 The Beautiful Isle of Man 39 Bristol, Bath & GWR 27 Babbacombe 14 Jersey by Air 58 Guernsey By Air 60 Scarborough 36

AUGUST DEPART

DAYS

Thu 4th Sat 6th Sat 6th Sun 7th

5 8 8 7

Fri 12th Sat 13th Sat 13th

3 8 8

DESTINATION Surprising London Jersey by Air Guernsey By Air Great Yarmouth & Davenport’s Magic Kingdom Edinburgh Military Tattoo Jersey by Air Guernsey By Air

PAGE 24 58 60 33 49 58 60

Booking Hotline: 01706 648126

DEPART

DAYS

Mon 3rd Sun 9th Mon 10th Tue 11th Tue 11th Sat 15th Mon 17th Mon 24th Mon 24th Mon 24th Sun 30th Sun 30th Mon 31st

5 5 5 5 7 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5

DESTINATION

PAGE

Mystery 8 Tastes and Flavours of Kent 22 Paignton 12 Isle of Wight 18 Alpine Brass Music Festival 65 Tenby 55 Cornish Delights 10 Bournemouth 16 Blackpool 35 ‘Mature Singles’ ~ West of Scotland 42 Babbacombe 14 Drymen 51 Looe, Cornwall 11

NOVEMBER DEPART

DAYS

Mon 7th Mon 7th Mon 7th Mon 14th Sun 20th

5 5 5 5 22

Mon 21st Mon 21st Wed 23rd Mon 28th Mon 28th

5 5 5 5 5

Mon 28th

5

DESTINATION Mystery North Devon Llandudno ‘Highland Party’ Isles of Glencoe Fred.Olsen ~ Islands of the Canaries & Cape Verde The English Riviera ~ Torquay Blackpool Tenby Bournemouth Cumbria, Northumbria & The Scottish Borders Valkenburg, Maastricht & Aachen Christmas Markets

PAGE 8 15 57 52 7 13 35 55 16 39 66

DECEMBER DEPART

DAYS

Mon 5th Mon 5th Mon 5th Sun 11th Sun 18th

5 5 5 5 19

DESTINATION

PAGE

Cornish Delights 10 The English Riviera ~ Torquay 13 St. Annes-on-Sea 34 Llandudno 57 Fred.Olsen ~ Canaries Christmas & Funchal Fireworks 7

67

TOURS DIARY

DEPART

Sat 14th Sat 14th Mon 16th Mon 16th Fri 20th Sat 21st Sat 21st Sun 22nd Mon 23rd Mon 23rd Mon 25th

How to Book

Ellen Smith

Ellen Smith Tours Ltd Newgate, Rochdale, OL16 1BA Tel: 01706 648126

DOOR TO DOOR COACH TOURS

2016

Opening Times: Mon-Fri 9.00am - 5.00pm

You can also book at one of our agents ALTHAMS TRAVEL Bolton Bury Denton Farnworth Littleborough Ramsbottom Rawtenstall Todmorden

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