Group Travel World July 23

Ideas and inspiration for GTW Club Members

JULY 2023 £3.99

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Forever Curious

Left: Emma (centre) and GTW Club members at the National Horseracing Museum Below: Emma goes behind the scenes at The Rothschild Yard

B

EST FAM EVER.” That was the

racing, its history and the training

ON THE COVER

verdict – mine at least, but it was

world. Read more on page 56, and

mirrored by GTW Club members!

head to GroupTravelWorld.com to

– of last month’s trip to Newmarket

sign up to our GTW Club and nab free

in Suffolk to tour the home of

invites to more days like this.

Birmingham is our cover star this issue, read more about its Frankfurt Christmas Market in our festive special from p65.

“

horseracing with the expert team at Discover Newmarket.

Oh, and I got an added bonus after my day with the Discover Newmarket

Everything was fantastic, from the

team. While admiring the former

tour of the gallops to the visit to the

racehorses in The Rothschild Yard

National Horseracing Museum (which

– home of charity Rehoming of

is hosting world class art exhibition

Racehorses – I got chatting to one

Urban Frame from now until October,

of the staff who said they are always

see page 27 for more on this).

looking for volunteers to help with the

As a horse lover, I was in my

horses. ‘Where do I sign up?’ was my

element, but even if the nearest you

reply... you never know where a group

come to the sport is an office flutter on

day out will take you!

Grand National day, this has to come top of the ‘groups must-do’ list. It’s a fascinating insight into the sport of

Where’s Harvey?

In our June issue Harvey could be spotted peeping out of the window of Palace House in Newmarket on page 57.

Well done to our winner, Bob Weedon, who wins our ￡10 M&S voucher.

Emma Parkes, GTW Club Manager

Make the most of us!

For your daily GTW fix visit GroupTravelWorld.com For English Heritage and National Trust GTO trade passes, exclusive invites to fam trips and networking events, special offers and more, join our new GTW Club at GroupTravelWorld.com

For the latest news from group travel guru Steve Reed, visit SteveReedTourism.co.uk For the GTW team’s contact details turn to page 5 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM 3

Features 8 ‘I’d love to travel back in time’ We chat to the team at Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre in Kent

16 Castles & cathedrals Explore thousands of years of history as we tour the UK’s top historic buildings

27 Banksy’s back Art on tour! Urban Frame: Mutiny in Colour launches at three Suffolk venues

28 Animal magic Discover why Twycross Zoo and West Midland Safari Park are celebrating

32 On the starting grid

60 Discover the waterfront city of Hull on a special fam trip

We race off to Silverstone Museum

34 Seven of the best... ...Heritage attractions across the UK

44 Crowning glory Why everyone needs to head to the Tower of London this summer

46 Group friendly museums From the Museum of the Home to Duxford, we round up Britain’s top museums

50 Tried and tested We enjoy a stay at Daish’s Imperial Hotel

62 Feel illuminated Get set for a magical winter experience at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens

28 Animal magic at Twycross

32 Race off to Silverstone

65 Get set for Christmas 2023 16 pages of festive fun and inspiration

Regulars 6 Let’s go...

Join us at a special GTW Club Networking Event at the National Football Museum in Manchester

14 Join our Club Emma Parkes explains why it pays to join the new GTW Club

54 GTW Club update GTW Club news and upcoming events

56 Horse play...

We tour Newmarket’s racing scene on a fantastic GTW Club fam trip

60 You’re invited…

To the exclusive three-day Hull Freedom Festival fam trip. We’ll see you there!

4 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

20 Explore Bolton Castle this summer – and win tickets!

Contents

■ Join our new GTW Club at GroupTravelWorld.com GTW Magazine, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX Switchboard: 01733 293487 ISSN: 2048-3392 EDITORIAL Editor: Helen Milbank E. helen.milbank@grouptravelworld.com Designer: David Hiles E: david.hiles@d15design.com Thanks to: Darren Calpin, Tony Henthorn, Mike Pickup, Steve Reed and Angela Youngman ADVERTISING Ad Manager: Julie Cousins T: 01733 293242 E: julie.cousins@grouptravelworld.com Client Manager: Tracey Carroll T: 01733 293242 E: tracey.carroll@grouptravelworld.com Client Manager: Lucy Mawdsley T: 07971 544816 E: lucy.mawdsley@grouptravelworld.com EVENTS & MARKETING Events and Marketing Manager: Emma Parkes T: 01733 293487 E: emma.parkes@grouptravelworld.com MANAGEMENT General Operations Manager: Harley Denham E: harley.denham@grouptravelworld.com Publisher: Jonathan Taylor E: jonathan@grouptravelworld.com

ⓒ 2023 GTW Media Ltd. No part of this publication may be

reproduced in any form or system or in any means without the written permission of the directors.This is considered a breach of copyright and action will be taken where this occurs. This magazine must not be lent, sold, hired or otherwise disposed of in a mutilated condition or in any authorised cover by way, or by trade, or annexed to any publication or advertising matter without first obtaining written permission from the directors.

8 We go behind the scenes at Richborough Roman Fort

56 Newmarket fam trip

RICHARD THOMAS:VISITS FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS

65 Get set for Christmas 2023

COACH COA OACH TOURISM T

ASSOCIA ASSOCIATION

Where’s Harvey?

Find where Harvey the dog is hidden in this issue and you could win a ￡10 M&S voucher. To enter, email helen.milbank@grouptravelworld.com before August 1, 2023.

WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM 5

MANCHESTER

National Football Museum As our calendar of GTW Club Events kicks off (excuse the pun) you’re invited to the National Football Museum in Manchester to join Emma Parkes and the team for a free networking event that will give you the chance to chat with the teams behind some of the best group friendly attractions in the North West and plan your next trip to the region. The event takes place on 6 September – find out more and sign up at GroupTravelWorld.com/ gtwevents/national-football-museum/

PLUS… Want to make a stay of it? We’ve joined forces with the nearby, group friendly Royal Toby Hotel in Rochdale to offer visitors to our GTW Networking Event in September a special discount on rooms. Book now and pay just ￡105 per room. Call 01706 861861 (ext 1) to book and quote ‘GTW Event’. For more on the hotel, visit theroyaltobyhotel.co.uk

WIN! In partnership with our Manchester event, we’ve also teamed up with Classic Lodges Hotels to offer one GTW reader the chance to win an overnight stay for two in any Classic Lodges Hotel across the UK, including dinner (see classiclodges.co.uk for more on the chain).

To enter, just email your contact details to emma.parkes@grouptravelworld.com – please put ‘Classic Lodges competition’ in the subject line.

Closing date is 1 September, 2023.

6 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

Let’s go...

WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM 7

“I’d love to travel back in time” Serena Partridge of Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre in Kent explains why this newly revamped site is a must for groups

significant role in Britain’s story as one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in Britain. Here, Site Manager Serena Partridge tells us more...

Photos: English Heritage

R

ICHBOROUGH ROMAN FORT and Amphitheatre, near

It was here that Roman invasion forces first landed in AD43, and it

Sandwich in Kent, has recently

was the gateway to Roman Britain for

undergone a sizeable transformation,

360 years. It developed into a military

which sees it take its rightful

supply base, then a thriving port town,

place on the visitor map as a site

and finally a fort. It now showcases

of huge historical significance.

hundreds of finds, reflecting its

8 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

Site Manager Serena Partridge

English Heritage

Q Please tell us a little about

forward to welcoming more groups

steam train to him – and it really does if

your role...

as a result of providing a much richer

you look closely enough.

Serena Partridge: I’ve been Site

visitor experience.

Q Tell us about the project

Manager at Richborough since 2014.

For ten years before that I worked

Q What makes Richborough

and how it will enhance visits

at several English Heritage sites

so special?

for groups...

around Kent and also at Apsley House

Serena: The atmosphere can be

Serena: Visitors can now climb to

in London. My experience at these

incredible. I have been here on sunny

the top of our new 8m high replica

very different places has helped me

days, freezing cold days and during

Claudian gateway to see the whole

in the transition from managing a

thunderstorms. Each weather pattern

area from above and imagine being

small site with 11,000 annual visitors,

brings a different atmosphere, and

a Roman soldier during those times,

to welcoming a projected 30,000

the high Roman walls take on an

when there was little else around

people this year to the transformed

almost individual character over the

to skew the eyeline. The museum is

Richborough. The project has really

seasons. I had one little boy tell me

stunning, with many new artefacts on

lifted our profile and I’m looking

that the South Wall looked like a

display never shown before, and WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM 9

English Heritage Roman hairpins dating back to AD 43-100

lets me know what she ‘picks up’ from her visits. She once said she picked up a Roman caretaker-type Items covering the whole of the Roman period can be seen in the museum

character looking out for the site.

we have a completely new shop. We

installed, which has really brought the

Q Are you happy to welcome

are just at the start of our journey and

amphitheatre ‘back’. William Stukeley,

groups to the site?

myself and the team feel honoured

one of the antiquarians who explored

Serena: We welcome all groups

to be custodians of this great place at

Richborough, drew a wonderful

here (see english-heritage.org.uk/

such a pivotal time.

copperplate of the amphitheatre in

traveltrade for details). If you prefer,

the 1720s – the first pictorial record.

you’re welcome to call for a chat or

Q Can you share any of the

In 1849, William Rolfe led an

email us at richborough.castle@

site’s secrets?

excavation and, during our recent

english-heritage.org.uk.

Serena: Previously, the

work, the number 1849 was found

Although we are situated along a

amphitheatre – although accessible

inscribed on one the walls, probably

one-track country lane, there’s ample

– was difficult to navigate and was a

from Rolfe’s own hand. It was a real

room for coaches with passing places

part of Richborough visitors often

‘eureka’ moment.

and you can pre-book coach spaces in

overlooked. However, following

I thought this rather nice and hope he is!

our large parking area. We’ve laid new

excavations during 2021 as part

Q Any ghost stories?

paths of rubber matting under grass

of the project, a new pathway was

Serena: One regular visitor always

to aid those with mobility issues, and wheelchair users can now get well into

Combine a visit with nearby St Augustine’s Abbey and Walmer Castle

the fort. There’s also an area of hard standing overlooking the fort with an audio selection to ensure everyone’s experience of this fascinating place is enhanced.

Q Where would you recommend groups head to first?

Serena: If you’re unfamiliar with Richborough’s story we recommend a visit to the museum first to get a feel for the background by watching our new interactive visual timeline and reading the information boards.

10 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

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Lake Lake District District

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English Heritage Then walk around the site with our

Serena: Volunteers are invaluable,

new concept audio tours, which

and if any readers would be interested

are like mini podcasts. I’d suggest

you can find details at english-

completing your visit by spending

heritage.org.uk/support-us/

time in the museum studying the

volunteers. Our volunteers have been

ancient artefacts.

working with our historian to create

Nearby Walmer Castle

a new tour of the fort, and also help Q How significant is the museum?

in many other ways, from answering

Serena: It’s been completely

visitors’ questions to sweeping a floor!

updated. Our curatorial team tell me

Whatever task they undertake they

there are 100,000 artefacts in store

are truly valued and appreciated.

relating to finds at Richborough and they had to choose 400 to display

Q Would you have liked to have

within the new space – no easy task!

lived at Roman Richborough?

My favourite artefact has to be

Serena: In a word, yes. We all say

the limestone votive sculpture of a

how we would like to travel back in

goddess – perhaps Hygieia (health)

time. I would love to have been one of

or Abundantia (abundance) – dated

the expert engineers who made the

AD43-100. She was part of the

walls to such high standards. I would

previous museum, having sat, since

also like to have been a Roman lady

is included. Twenty five people is a

the 1930s we believe, in situ. It was a

about the town wearing beautiful

maximum, however we can provide

difficult task moving her, using small

accessories, such as the hairpins that

two tour guides to split larger groups.

cranes and pulleys, to Dover Castle,

have been found here – more than

The cost is ￡120 for groups of 20 on

where she spent 18 months in store

1,000 of them...

top of normal admission, and ￡5.50

while the transformation project was

per person thereafter.

underway. It was a great day when

Q Any other tips you’d like to

she came back and moved to her new

share with GTW readers?

could add a visit to nearby Walmer

For a full day out in the area, you

Serena: We suggest you allow up to

Castle and Gardens where you can

two hours on site. The pre-bookable

enjoy a wonderful lunch or afternoon

Q Are people welcome to

tour we offer lasts one hour, or one-

tea, or Canterbury to see the ruins of

volunteer on site?

and-a-half hours if the amphitheatre

St Augustine’s Abbey.

resting place. I’m very fond of her.

At Richborough there is the

Join our Club Join the new GTW Club and receive an English Heritage Travel Trade pass, valid for a year – see GroupTravelWorld.com for details and click on the ‘Club’ tab.

outline of a chapel dedicated to St Augustine, and it was here, or nearby, that he landed on our shores and met Ethelbert, the King of Kent, in 597. GTW The site was the gateway to Roman Britain for over 300 years

12 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

Join our Club!

Free fam trips, invites to networking events, English Heritage passes... Emma Parkes explains why it pays to join the GTW Club

EVENTS & FAM TRIPS

Emma (right) is heading up our new GTW Club

M

EETING YOU LOT and helping some fantastic attractions across the UK sell themselves better to groups! That’s my role in a nutshell – and the GTW Club ties together all the elements of group travel we’re super excited about.

Group Travel World magazine is fast on the way to becoming a Members-only publication for all professional group travel organisers, coach and tour operators and UK attractions, and I’m here to lead the charge on this exciting journey.

We’ve been working hard to pull together a package of fantastic Member benefits, but my top five favourites are...

14 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

12 issues of Group Travel World magazine posted to your door Annual English Heritage Travel Trade pass Annual National Trust GTO pass Access to an exclusive GTO insurance policy from Wrightsure Insurance Exclusive fam trip and GTW Event invites

Right now, Emma is working hard to line up a full calendar of fam trips and GTW networking events this year. Turn to p56 to see what’s on and check our website for updates.

Join the GTW Club

Sign up!

It’s easy to join our Club – simply visit GroupTravelWorld.com for more details. Membership costs just ￡49.99 a year for GTOs and coach and tour operators. A separate supplier membership is available for ￡199.99 (see the website for more details).

Uncover History at Raby Castle Without a doubt, one of the most impressive intact castles in the North of England.

Built by the mighty Nevill in the 14th

guides of the halls and chambers, which

Century, Raby has been home to Lord

house fabulous interiors, art collections and

Barnard’s family since 1626. You’ll be

dramatic architecture. Enjoy a stroll outdoors

fascinated as knowledgeable and friendly

and spot wildlife in the deer park. A visit

guides help bring history to life with a

to the café and browse around the shop all

guided tour with our knowledgeable

combine for a memorable day out.

To find out more and book, visit: www.raby.co.uk/raby-castle admin@raby.co.uk Raby Castle, Staindrop, County Durham, DL2 3AH

01833 660202

Easy come, easy go...

16 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

Durham City’s epic cathedral and castle tower over the city’s new coach drop-off and pick-up points

Castles & cathedrals

C

OACH PARTIES VISITING Durham

suitable for wheelchair users, has

(with a 20-minute short stay parking

will now be greeted by views of

been re-routed to take visitors

restriction). After dropping off,

the UNESCO World Heritage Site

from Framwelgate Waterside to the

drivers can access the free Coach

of Durham’s Cathedral and Castle

World Heritage Site. Footpaths next

Park at Belmont Park and Ride. The

as they enjoy the city’s brand new

to the coach drop-off point have

site has space for up to 30 coaches,

coach drop-off site at Framwelgate

been enlarged and a lift is soon to be

toilets and facilities for drivers to clean

Waterside. They’ll have a choice

installed up to Milburngate Bridge.

their vehicles. Coach drivers and tour

of routes to enter and explore the

Coach drivers will benefit from

guides can enjoy free travel in and

city from – and just a few minutes’

the new drop-off and pick-up bays,

out of Durham city centre from the

walk from the new location is the

which are accessible to both right

Coach Park via the Durham City Park

National Trust’s Crook Hall Gardens.

and left-hand drive vehicles and

and Ride service, available from 7am

have space for up to four coaches

until 7pm, Monday to Saturday. GTW

The cathedral bus service,

GOING AS A GROUP? ■ Durham City’s new

■ For more on group friendly

coach drop-off and pick-up point

attractions and accommodation,

is located on Framwelgate

visit discoverdurham.co.uk

Waterside (postcode DH1 5TA)

■ For more on the park and ride

■ The Coach Park is at

service, visit durham.gov.uk/

Belmont Park and Ride

parkandride

(postcode DH1 1SR),

■ For information on the cathedral

with free long-stay parking

bus, visit durham.gov.uk/

for up to 30 coaches

cathedralbus

WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM 17

Castles & cathedrals

“Its history comes to life”

Emma explores the cloisters

Tracey takes in the lofty cathedral views

GTW’s Tracey Carroll takes a tour of glorious Durham Cathedral

H

AVING VISITED MY eldest child at Durham University many times over the past couple of years, I thought I knew a bit about the city.

How wrong I was! My daughter Emma and I decided we had to take a trip up north to see what we were really missing, and thought a good start would be a tour of Durham Cathedral.

On entering – past the sanctuary knocker – we were blown away by the scale and intricacy of the architecture, and amazed by the stunning views along the nave.

There’s plenty to see just wandering around with your own thoughts, but if, like me, you want to know more, taking a tour really does make the

18 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

cathedral’s history come to life. We were greeted by our guide, Mike, who was extremely knowledgeable and fun. We heard tales of Viking raids, the life and times of St Cuthbert, and the history of the construction of the cathedral, which dates back to 1093.

STAR OF THE BIG SCREEN The tour lasted approximately an hour, but Mike was happy to take time to answer questions afterwards. In fact he kindly gave us another half hour of his time as we discussed the various film crews the cathedral’s hosted (it’s starred in Harry Potter, among others).

Stopping for a breather at the cloisters, we were delighted to find

the cathedral’s Undercroft Cafe, and there’s also a shop for gifts and souvenirs. We paused here for a browse before moving on to the cathedral museum. The highlight for us here was the octagonal great kitchen, which houses St Cuthbert’s cross and wooden coffin.

SEE FOR YOURSELF Our one-hour cathedral tour was one of many tours and experiences (detailed on the website), and I’m sure we’ll soon be back to climb the tower – all 325 steps. Durham Cathedral caters well for groups, contact visits@durhamcathedral. co.uk to discuss your needs and the bespoke options available.

■ Heading to County Durham?

Combine a city break with a trip to Beamish – see page 41 for the latest from the museum. GTW

ANCESTRAL SEAT TO THE EARLS OF STRATHMORE AND KINGHORNE, CHILDHOOD HOME OF HM QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER AND BIRTHPLACE OF HRH THE PRINCESS MARGARET. GUIDED CASTLE TOURS HISTORIC GARDENS PICNIC & PLAY AREA RESTAURANT GIFT SHOP SEASONAL EVENTS

OPEN UNTIL 20TH DECEMBER 2021

GLAMIS, ANGUS, SCOTLAND DD8 1RJ P: 01307 840393 E: ENQUIRIES@GLAMIS-CASTLE.CO.UK

WWW.GLAMIS-CASTLE.CO.UK

Join our Club!

Bolton Castle is one of a growing number of group friendly attractions to become a GTW Club Supplier Member. See all the benefits and sign up at GroupTravelWorld.com

20 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

Castles & cathedrals NORTH YORKSHIRE

Bolton Castle Photo: Gareth Buddo

Built as a home by Sir Richard Le Scrope 600 years ago, Bolton Castle, near Leyburn, is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the country and remains under the private ownership of Lord Bolton, a direct descendant of Sir Richard.

The castle’s diverse programme of events celebrate its history, its gardens and its inhabitants. A series of Living History weekends throughout the summer bring the attraction’s story to life: learn how to defend yourself from a marauder, try your hand at one-to-one combat and find out what life was really like while the castle was under siege.

Events also showcase the daily tasks that kept the castle functioning as both a home and a garrison (when staff had to cook for a hundred or so hungry knights).

From outdoor theatre to medieval music, to peaceful tours of the gardens and fantastic falconry displays, the open season at Bolton Castle has something for everyone. To book your group visit call 01969 623981, email info@boltoncastle. co.uk or visit boltoncastle.co.uk

WIN! We’re giving you the chance to win a family ticket to Bolton Castle. Email emma.parkes@grouptravelworld.com to enter. Please put ‘Bolton Castle competition’ in the subject line, closing date is August 15, 2023.

WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM 21

Castles & cathedrals

GROUP DISCOUNTS

ENGLISH HERITAGE

Ancient

Abbeys… ...mighty castles and stunning priories.

English Heritage has them all!

E

NGLISH HERITAGE HAS a stunning collection of castles, abbeys and priories around the country, many of which have all the facilities you need to provide your group with a memorable day out. Here’s a whistle-stop tour of six of the charity’s best abbeys and castles for groups to explore: ■ Kenilworth Castle and

Elizabethan Garden in Warwickshire (pictured here) is the place where, in July 1575, Robert Dudley Earl of Leicester entertained Queen Elizabeth I. Groups can climb the tower of the ruined miniature palace he built for her and stroll through the recreated garden where they once walked.

■ Dover Castle in Kent – King

22 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

Henry II’s 12th century home – is just as impressive today as it was then. Groups can explore his Great Tower and visit the Secret Wartime Tunnels hidden in the cliffs below, where the Dunkirk evacuation during World War II was masterminded.

■ 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey

and Battlefield in East Sussex was built by William the Conqueror to atone for blood shed on the battlefield in the fight for the English crown.

The altar marks the spot where King Harold was slain during the battle.

There’s also a visitor centre and café.

■ Carisbrooke Castle on the Isle of Wight is a mighty medieval fortress that was prison to King Charles I for 14 months before his execution in 1649. Groups can see the room

Groups of 11 or more receive a generous 15% discount at all English Heritage properties (10% at Stonehenge). Visit www.english-heritage.org. uk/visit/group-visits/ for more information and booking details. Plus! Turn to p14 to join the GTW Club and receive an English Heritage Travel Trade pass, valid for a year.

from which he tried to escape, be charmed by today’s resident donkeys and stroll through the castle’s Edwardian-style garden.

■ Rievaulx Abbey in North Yorkshire

was once one of the wealthiest abbeys in medieval England. Today, there are extensive ruins to explore and a museum containing objects found on the site, including a ‘Monk’s scourge’ tipped with wire balls that was used for self-penance.

■ Lindisfarne Priory in Northumberland, with its stunning location on Holy Island, is a recently upgraded gem. Groups can enjoy the beautiful priory ruins and admire Anglo Saxon artefacts and recent site finds in the refurbished museum. GTW

WE CARE FOR OVER 400 UNIQUE SITES, MONUMENTS AND ARTEFACTS FOR YOUR GROUP TO DISCOVER. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/group-visits

Scan to find out more

The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.

Castles & cathedrals

In chains...

Hereford Cathedral’s Chained Library Not only is this fascinating building home to the Mappi Mundi – the largest medieval world map to survive – it’s also the place where you can tour the Chained Library (pictured here). This fascinating treasure holds more than 1,500 rare books, including 229 medieval manuscripts. See all this and more on a group tour, visit herefordcathedral.org to find out more and plan your trip.

Peterborough Cathedral’s royal links It’s the burial place of two queens – Katharine of Aragon and Mary Queen of Scots – and you can find out 24 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

more about Peterborough Cathedral’s 900-year history on one of this Cambridgeshire gem’s many group tours. From the hour-long Highlights Tour to the epic Tower Tour (GTW’s Editor Helen loves this one so much she’s been twice), find out more at peterborough-cathedral.org.uk

Coventry Cathedral’s Casket of Jewels Destroyed by enemy raids during the Second World War, today Coventry’s Ruined Cathedral stands as a reminder of the horrors of war – alongside the magnificent New Cathedral, designed as a ‘casket of jewels’ by Sir Basil Spence. Tower top tours are available for the more

PHOTO: ASH MILLS

Medieval manuscripts, royal tombs... we reveal the secrets of some of the UK’s finest ecclesiastical buildings energetic (at 295ft the tower is the third highest in England).

See coventrycathedral.org.uk for details of what’s on.

Canterbury Cathedral’s stained glass legacy Whether you opt for a private guided tour, an entrance-only ticket, a special talk or simply want to soak up its 1400 years of history, a group tour to Canterbury cathedral is must.

New tours explore the stained glass windows – including four Ancestor Windows present at the time of Thomas Becket’s murder – and also include a tour of the precincts and gardens. Find out more at canterbury-cathedral.org GTW

EXPLORE THE GARDENS OF HEREFORD CATHEDRAL

Garden tours are available for booked groups throughout the year and enable the visitor to explore the cathedral’s most beautiful gardens with our experienced gardeners and guides.

Contact us today to discover more about our bespoke group visit packages: visits@herefordcathedral.org 01432 374 202

herefordcathedral.org

Group friendly KARIS YOUNGMAN

Banksy’s Back...

Angela Youngman explores a mix of modern art as The Urban Frame: Mutiny in Colour launches across Suffolk

T

HOUGHT PROVOKING, intriguing and at times amusing – the Suffolk-based Urban Frame: Mutiny in Colour is the UK’s largest modern art exhibition of the summer. It also includes a world first – seven full-size photographs of Banksy’s work, completed in the Ukraine and never before seen in public.

The actual works no longer exist – they have been destroyed by the war – but the images are extremely poignant and include a David and

Goliath style scene of a young boy defeating a grown man at Judo, and a woman trying to continue normal life despite wearing a gas mask.

Held across three venues (see box out below), the works by Banksy are split across all three venues, and include the ‘Lowestoft Sandcastle Girl’, made during the artist’s 2021 Norfolk ‘spraycation’.

Anyone wanting to see how Banksy’s work has developed should visit the Newmarket exhibition at

GEOFF PRICE

Banksy’s Ukranian artwork is on show for the first time

The National Horseracing Museum, as this contains his early works, from anti-war placards to wall stencils such as ‘Hula Hoop Girl’.

In total, Mutiny in Colour includes over 300 works of art covering a range of styles. Throughout the exhibition, there are references to current issues, such as climate change, justice and the war in Ukraine. It makes for a surprising and interesting mix of art works.

This is the second foray by West Suffolk Council and the Brandler Galleries into the world of contemporary art exhibitions. In 2021, the ‘Moments’ exhibition at Bury St Edmunds attracted over 25,000 visitors with 42% of tickets being sold to visitors from outside the county.

Being spread across three venues, it is anticipated that Urban Frame will exceed those attendance figures.

At just ￡7 per adult at each location, the intention is to keep it as inclusive as possible and there will be talks by some of the exhibiting artists throughout the run. GTW

See for yourself

Work by the Connor Brothers mixes with Banksy and Damien Hirst

The Urban Frame: Mutiny in Colour is split between three venues: Moyse’s Hall in Bury St Edmunds, The National Horseracing Museum in Newmarket and Haverhill Arts Centre. Both Moyse’s Hall and the

Newmarket site run from now until 1 October, while Haverhill is open from 10 July to 12 September. Find out more at visit-burystedmunds. co.uk/events/urban-framemutiny-in-colour

WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM 27

Animal Magic GTW’s junior reporters Georgie Milbank and Lily McGregor go ape at Twycross Zoo in Leicestershire as the attraction celebrates its 60th birthday

Lily (left) and Georgie grab a photo op... the zoo is home to four orangutans

when you pay your entrance fee that you’re directly helping many species to avoid extinction.

A highlight for all visitors – Georgie and Lily included – has to be the relatively new Sumatran tiger enclosure, complete with transparent tunnel the giant cats can sleep on

AN’T WAIT TO go again.”

C

zebra, giant tortoises, snakes and

and walk over. Chimpanzee Eden is

“My favourite was the tiger

various other weird and wonderful

also a big hit.

sitting on the clear tunnel over

creatures (in all, Twycross cares for

our heads.” “Can we both get

almost 500 animals, many of which are

and not too pricey, there are plenty of

a gorilla from the shop...?”

endangered in the wild).

places to picnic and a couple of cafes,

“

The all-important gift shop is large

In short, Twycross Zoo proved

This year marks the zoo’s 60th

a hit for 14-year-old animal lovers

birthday, and many of the attraction’s

Georgie and Lily, who spent the

stars are part of conservation

ages occupied for the day, and the

day ogling the apes, tigers, giraffe,

breeding programmes, so you know

adults too. GTW

28 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

plus an indoor play area.

There’s plenty to keep kids of all

Tried & tested

Did you know a group of penguins is known as a waddle when they’re on land?

Friendly rainbow lorikeets will swoop in for a drink

Plan your visit at twycrosszoo.org

Inside the giraffe enclosure, which also has elevated viewing platforms outside

Did you know?

■ Twycross Zoo’s award-winning Education

Department offers a variety of options for school groups. All sessions are curriculum linked, including STEM projects for Key Stage 1, 2 and 3.

Call 01827 880250 (option 3) to find out more or email bookings@twycrosszoo.org ■ Summer holiday activities include big cat feeding

time (every day from 22 July to 3 September at 3.30pm) and a meet the meerkats experience at ‘Tyred’ yet?!

11am every day from 17 July to 3 September.

WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM 29

Award-winners

It’s a hat-trick!

West Midland Safari Park is celebrating after clinching not one but three Head of Education at WMSP, Nico national awards la Anslow, and Senior Education Officer Chloe

Walton-Stenson

W

ORCESTERSHIRE attraction West Midland Safari Park is marking its 50th birthday this year – but that’s not where the celebrations end.

Last month saw the park scoop not one but three national awards – Best Wildlife Attraction, presented at the School Travel Awards; Silver Award for Education, presented at the BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums) Awards; and Tripadvisor’s 2023 Travellers’ Choice Award for its new Safari Lodges. Not forgetting the attraction’s Large Visitor Attraction

30 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

of the Year gong, awarded at the Visit Worcestershire Awards back in March.

■ Want to experience all it has to offer for yourself? See the latest

group offers at wmsp.co.uk, call 01299 402114 or follow Facebook.com/WestMidSafari GTW

ES! THRILLING RID

DRIVE-T HROUGH SAFARI!

NOW OPEN

LION RIDGE

AFRICAN WALKING TRAIL

FROM ONLY £15.00 PER PERSON GROUPS@WMSP.CO.UK

Group friendly

On the starting grid Don your race suit and prepare to experience Silverstone like never before...

T

HE SILVERSTONE MUSEUM in Northamptonshire combines history, interactive experiences and memorabilia from more than 70 years of motor racing.

The excitement starts as you prepare for your tour with entry to the ‘Starting Grid’ pre-show. Walk into the tunnel to take your place and travel back in time through Silverstone’s past. Rub shoulders with racing drivers and mechanics as they prepare their cars to race

Exclusive tours, discounts and experiences are available for groups of 10-plus.

Email groups@ silverstonemuseum.co.uk

32 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

past you. Hear the roar of the engines as the lights go out and you start your journey into the heart of British motor racing.

Learn where the corners on this world-famous circuit got their names, and discover what’s really involved on a busy race day, from the race marshals to the medical centre.

Listen to famous drivers, including Sir Jackie Stewart, who’ll tell you all about safety at the circuit. You can even try your hand at commentating

on a race, and discover what the race director does in the museum’s interactive game located near the pit lane. Groups can also head outside onto parts of the original track and watch the action from Luffield Terrace. GTW

15 PERFORMANCES ONLY

OPENS 17TH NOVEMBER

The brutal succession battles of Mongolia's past is brought to life in this spectacular dance-drama a cast over 70 actors and dancers.

ATHE MOST EPIC SHOW OF THE YEAR. UB NEWS

BOOK NOW

themongolkhan.com themongolkhan

Group friendly

SEVENbest... of the

Heritage attractions across the UK

The famous Iron Bridge, built in 1779, was the first of its kind anywhere in the world

1

IRONBRIDGE VALLEY OF INVENTION

Discover the people and places that changed our lives as you tour this Shropshire gem – home to a series of museums set within the UNESCO Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site.

Where to start? How about Blists Hill Victorian Town – a lively recreation of a working town in 1900, where

you’ll meet costumed characters and find out about their daily lives, see them at work in their workshops and factories, and witness heritage crafts in action, from blacksmithing and iron-pouring to tin-smithing and plaster-making.

Its ever-popular Fried Fish Dealer serves fish and chips, served in an old-fashioned paper cone, which you

can enjoy with a pint in the New Inn Pub beer garden.

Away from Blists Hill you’re spoilt for choice, with museums exploring local industries that flourished in the Gorge in the 18th and 19th centuries, including china-making, tile-making, clay tobacco pipe production and, of course, iron – the material that this picturesque valley is famous for.

Get me there: For more on all the sites visit ironbridge.org.uk, email groups@ironbridge.org.uk or call 01952 435900. Coach parking is free and the driver and group organiser get free admission.

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GROUP VISITS

BE

INSPIRED

GET

INVOLVED

Enjoy exclusive group benefits including: • discounted admission for groups of 15+ • free familiarisation visit for organiser • bespoke group menus • free coach parking • free admission for group leader • complimentary visit planning service

DISCOVER

INNOVATION

For more information and to book:

IRONBRIDGE.ORG.UK

01952 435 900 or groups@ironbridge.org.uk

Group friendly

2

THE BOROUGH OF DUDLEY

In the heart of the Black Country, groups heading to the market town of Dudley are spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring the region’s industrial past, especially its glass and lace-making heritage.

The Red House Glass Cone (pictured here) stands 100ft tall in the Stourbridge Glass Quarter, home to glassmaking for more than 400 years.

Groups can tour the craft studios, exhibitions, coffee house and shop, with free admission and free parking.

Nearby, the Ruskin Glass Centre is home to past greats of the glass industry. Learn about the history of glass making in the area, and again

visit the artisan craft studios and café. And finally, Stourbridge Glass Museum – home to the globally significant Stourbridge Glass Collection – has a busy events programme of talks and exhibitions.

Lace more your groups thing?

The Lace Guild, situated in the heart of the Glass Quarter, houses a large collection of lace items and artefacts depicting the history of this wonderful heritage craft.

PLUS DON’T MISS...

■ The Black Country Living Museum

gives visitors the chance to explore the shops, houses and industrial workshops rebuilt in the museum’s canal-side villages and high streets.

Explore Dudley Canal and Limestone Mines

Get me there: Visit discoverdudley.org.uk to plan your trip to the region.

36 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

7

of the best heritage attractions

■ Himley Hall and Park offers

afternoon tea, as well as events, activities and walks throughout the year.

■ Dudley Zoo and Castle is home to hundreds of exotic and endangered animals, as well as an 11th century motte and bailey castle.

■ Dudley Canal and Limestone Mines offers an underground 45-minute skipper-guided tour.

Britain’s Greatest Palace

Birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill

SEE WHAT’S ON

UNESCO World Heritage Site

blenheimpalace.com partnerships@blenheimpalace.com Registered charity number 1166164

BP_TRADE_2023_170x120_ADVERT_FINAL.indd 1

13/06/2023 16:40

3

HEVER CASTLE

twist, historians at the Castle also

A Book of Hours prayer book

believe Anne Boleyn, Catherine of

confirmed to have belonged to

Aragon and Cromwell all owned a

Thomas Cromwell will be on display

copy of the same prayer book.

at Hever Castle in Kent from now

Assistant Curator at Hever,

until November. And, in an exciting

Kate McCaffrey, made the link that

38 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

Frick Collection, New York.

Catherine of Aragon and Anne Boleyn

Since Alison’s discovery, she has

had copies of the same prayer book

worked alongside Kate and

back in 2021. She then discovered

Dr Owen Emmerson to uncover the

a third copy of the 1527 Book of

mystery of the book’s ownership.

Hours, which had been donated

Previously, little was known about

to Cambridge in 1660, and took

the early provenance of this prayer

Hever’s curatorial team to view it.

book. However, Hever’s team has

The Castle’s Curator, Alison Palmer,

The Book of Hours

Get me there: Plan your visit at hevercastle.co.uk/ visit/groups

now uncovered a provenance trail

recognised the silver gilt binding of

that links the book from its donor,

the book from the portrait of Thomas

Dame Anne Sadleir, directly back

Cromwell painted by Hans Holbein

to Cromwell. A team of experts,

the Younger in 1532-3, which is in the

including historian, author and

Group friendly

7

of the best heritage attractions

4

THE OLD ROYAL NAVAL COLLEGE

ready to take groups on a variety of tours. One of the favourites covers

This fantastic attraction in the heart of

the story of the site from its time as

Maritime Greenwich now has a new

Greenwich Palace, birthplace of Henry

travel trade team who’ve been carrying

VIII, through to the present day.

out a fresh review of everything on

“We also have a blockbuster film

offer for groups and coach operators.

tour, which lets you in on some trade

Gillian Bell is the travel trade manager,

secrets as to why this is one of the

and she’s supported by Ales Kosejk,

most sought-after film locations

alongside Joanna Fitzpatrick who

in the world.

heads up the box office.

“Alongside our award-winning guided tours and free on site parking,

home of the Painted Hall, with 500

we can offer some special experiences

years of extraordinary history,” says

for groups, such as Christmas

Gillian. “We are lucky to have an

packages including carol concerts

outstanding team of expert guides

in the chapel.”

THE FRICK COLLECTION/MICHAEL

BODYCOMB

“We’re a stunning 17-acre estate,

Thomas Cromwell, painted

by Hans Holbein the Younger SHUTTERSTOCK/ALEXEY FEDORENKO

TV presenter Tracy Borman, have reviewed the new evidence and have confidence that this is the very same book in the Holbein painting and that it belonged to Cromwell. It’s thought to be the only object from any Tudor portrait to survive to this day, and is the first time the book has been lent from Trinity College since it was received on 10 August 1660.

Get me there: Visit ornc.org/groups, email boxoffice@ornc.org or call 0208 269 4799. If you wish to register for a newsletter, email ‘newsletter’ to groups@ornc.org

WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM 39

Explore and commemorate the Battle of Bosworth BOSWORTH B SW BOS WOR RTH H

AL MEDIEV MEDLEY

19-20 August 2023 19-20

AL MEDIEV FESTIVAL

August 2023

Get up close to medieval history and witness Yorkist and Lancastrian battle camps

Archery • Fashion show •BOSWORTH DIY battle • Crafts BOSWORTH 16-24 16-24

AL August EVAL August 2021 2021 MEDIwww.bosworthbattlefield.org.uk MEDIEV /BosworthBattlefield /BosworthBattlefield MEDLEY @bosworthbattlefield M EDLEY The full festival to return in 2024

Athelhampton HOUSE & GARDENS

Visit one of England’s finest Tudor Manor Houses set in award winning Historic Gardens.

Step back in time to 1485 and visit the Tudor Great Hall and explore more of the historic rooms.

Wander through the architectural gardens with ponds, fountains and the ancient dovecote.

Our restored Elizabethan Kitchen is now open to the public.

12 acres of delightful gardens

Free Car Parking, excellent visitor facilities including Restaurant, Picnic Area, Plant Sales & Gift shop

over 20 historic rooms to view

Easily access, large carpark with new coach parking bays, just off the A35 / A31 between Dorchester & Poole / Ringwood

01305 848363

www.athelhampton.co.uk

Group friendly

Prepare for battle!

Head further back in time to the 1400s at the Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre and Country Park in Leicestershire. Plan your visit at bosworthbattlefield.org.uk – there are special discounts for groups of 10-plus

Inside one of the 1950s police houses

5

BEAMISH, THE LIVING MUSEUM OF THE NORTH

This County Durham gem of an attraction has added new 1950s exhibits as part of its ‘Remaking Beamish’ project, which is the biggest development in the museum’s history.

Groups can now explore replicas of semi-detached council houses from Red House in Sunderland, police houses and an office from Leam Lane in Gateshead, and a bowling green and pavilion from Billingham in the 1950s Town.

Beamish staff at the new 1950s bowling pavilion

Groups can also take a tram ride back in time and discover what life was like in the 1820s, early 1900s and 1940s, with discounted day admission for pre-booked groups of 15 or more,

free admission for the coach driver and group organiser, free coach parking, free access to special daytime events throughout the year and coach driver hospitality.

Get me there: Find out more at www.beamish.org.uk or email bookings@beamish.org.uk WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM 41

Group friendly

6

ASTLEY HALL AND PARK

Journey through more than 400 years of history to reveal the secrets of one of the most intriguing historic houses in the North West. This surprising building, in Chorley in Lancashire, features some of the

most striking mid-17th century plaster ceilings on the country, as well as rare painted panelling and fine English oak furniture.

Surrounding the Hall there’s lots more to explore in Astley Park, including a Victorian walled garden and woodland walks, tennis courts, bowling greens and children’s play areas.

Get me there: Discover more about Astley Hall and the other group friendly attractions in the region at checkoutchorley.com

7

BLENHEIM PALACE

This Oxfordshire gem delivers an awe-inspiring experience for groups. Home to the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough and birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, the World Heritage Site sits among

42 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

2,000 acres of Capability Brown landscaped parkland. On arrival, a member of the visitor experience team will be on hand to welcome you.

Blue Badge Guides are welcome to guide throughout the parkland and gardens, and a visitor map is on hand

7

of the best heritage attractions

The Hall has recently been renovated and now welcomes groups

to show the many routes available to explore the views, monuments and huge variety of wildlife.

Blenheim is committed to providing an accessible attraction, and strives to ensure that visitors with disabilities can enjoy as much of its World Heritage Site as possible.

It has implemented more accessible pathways around the Palace to ensure all can enjoy their time here.

Onsite buggies are also available, which you can hop on and hop off to help you reach certain parts of the grounds; wheelchairs can be booked in advance. GTW

Get me there: See all the special group deals at blenheimpalace.com

A partnership to re-present the Jewel House

A NEW ERA BEGINS

SEE THE SPECTACULAR NEW CROWN JEWELS EXHIBITION IN THE YEAR OF THE CORONATION

TOWER OF LONDON PRE-BOOK NOW, MEMBERS GO FREE

Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2023

Crowning Glory Head to the Tower of London this summer for a new glittering display that’s not to be missed

Charles Farris

T

HE WORLD REJOICED as King

start of the exhibition. We are also

Charles III and Queen Camilla were

really excited to share the rich history

crowned at Westminster Abbey earlier

of this magnificent collection in more

this year. The Crown Jewels played

depth and detail than ever before.

a prominent role in the ceremony,

New films, music and set design work

and now they’re back at the Tower

with the new object displays to help

of London in a new display exploring

really bring the spaces to life. Whether

their history and significance. Here,

you are interested in history or just

Public Historian Charles Farris explains

want to marvel at these incredible

why everyone should rush to see it...

objects we hope we have created an exhibition everyone will enjoy.

Q What is your role at Historic Royal Palaces and what was your

Q The new display aims to tell

involvement with the project?

stories not previously told

Charles Farris: I’m a Public Historian

– which story stands out to

in the Curators Team at Historic Royal

you the most?

Palaces helping to research and share

Charles: There are so many

the stories of our amazing palaces.

fascinating histories it is really hard

In this project I’ve been researching

to choose. We know visitors are

the collection and working closely

particularly interested in the origins of

with colleagues across the

the collection and we have worked

organisation to present an exciting

hard to share these stories. These

transformed and will display several

new Crown Jewels exhibition.

include the destruction and remaking

objects never shown before. There

of the Crown Jewels in the 1600s, and

will also be new films, music,

Q While the Crown Jewels are

the stories of famous diamonds like

interpretation and set design which

the main stars of the show, what

the Koh-i-Noor and the Cullinan I.

come together to tell the stories and

new highlights can visitors look

bring the spaces to life. We hope

forward to seeing?

Q Will visitors see anything new?

visitors will be swept up in the magic

Charles: We hope to wow visitors

Charles: Yes, lots. The first half of the

and splendour of Coronations with the

with amazing objects from the very

Jewel House in particular has been

beautiful new displays.

44 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

Royal visits

Q Is the display fully accessible

Q What is your favourite item,

will find it thought-provoking,

to visitors?

and how would you sum up the

inclusive and inspiring. I know that’s

Charles: One of our key priorities in

exhibition in three words?

four, but it would be wonderful

creating the new display was making it

Charles: I’m not allowed a favourite,

if future historians were inspired

more accessible, with new additions

but, as a medievalist, I do have

by their visit.

including enhanced tactile 3D models

a soft spot for the 12th century

for visually impaired visitors. The

Coronation Spoon. It’s really beautiful

n The new display is a permanent

exhibition is also fully accessible to

and such a miraculous survival. And

fixture at the Tower of London and

wheelchair users.

just three? That’s tricky. I hope visitors

included in palace admission. GTW WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM 45

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF HRP

Plan your group visit at hrp.org.uk/ travel-trade

Museums

Take a spin in the Ford Anglia that starred in Harry Potter at the British Motor Museum

History repeats Our pick of the top museums to explore this summer and beyond

Museum of the Home London

Formerly the Geffrye Museum, and housed in the 18th century Grade I listed former almshouses on Kingsland Road in Shoreditch, this attraction explores home life from the 1600s to the present day. It re-opened last summer following a two-and-a-half year refurbishment project, with a new name and a mission to explore, reveal and rethink the ways we live.

Groups of up to 25 are welcome for a free self-guided visit – head to museumofthehome.org.uk/visitus/group-visits to pick a time slot and find out more.

Highlights include the 1830s drawing room and a 17th century parlour, plus look out for special events, including Almshouse Tours every Saturday (a small fee applies).

The British Motor Museum Warwickshire

In 1993, the British Motor Museum – known at the time as the ‘Heritage Motor Centre’ – opened its doors for the very first time, and it’s hosting a 30th anniversary celebration week from 14-20 August. Highlights include 46 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

the chance to take a ride in Huey, the first pre-production Land Rover, as well as the Ford Anglia from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

To find out more call 01926 895300 or visit britishmotormuseum.co.uk

AND DON’T MISS… Denbies Wine Estate in Dorking, Surrey (denbies.co.uk) is hosting a Group Travel Showcase on Monday 16 October – so come and say hi to Emma Parkes who will be there representing the GTW Club.

Arranged by Steve Reed Tourism Ltd, the event will feature some of the top attractions and hotels from around the country, including Daish’s Holidays, the Royal Mint Experience of Southern Wales, RHS Wisley Garden in Surrey, the Yarn Market Hotel of Exmoor, Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens of West Sussex, French Brothers River Cruises of Windsor, Classic Lodges Hotels and Painshill Park from Cobham in Surrey.

■ To register, email Steve at steve@stevereedtourism.co.uk

FREE AND OPEN TO ALL Tuesday to Sunday and Bank Holidays 10am to 5pm Group bookings and tours available museumofthehome.org.uk

Air shows

TAKE TO THE

Summer Evening Picnic Air Show When: 15 July Get me there: Head to the Shuttleworth Collection in Bedfordshire for a special evening flying display this month Find out more: Events take place all summer long and tours of the hangars can also be arranged. Find out more at shuttleworth.org

Open Cockpit Day When: 9 September Get me there: Head to Yorkshire 48 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

Air Museum and climb into the hot seat of a selection of aircraft Find out more: The museum – just seven miles from York – is open year-round and offers special group tours. Find out more at yorkshireairmuseum.org

The Southport Air Show When: 9 and 10 September Get me there: As well as a full flying programme there’s much to keep you occupied at ground level, including static aircraft and flight simulators

JONATHAN SMITH

We round up the best of this summer’s air shows and aviation museums Find out more: For more information on taking a group go to visitsouthport. com or email Steve Christian, destination development manager, at steve.christian@sefton.gov.uk

Duxford Battle of Britain Air Show When: 16 and 17 September Get me there: Held at IWM Duxford, step back into the summer of 1940 as vintage planes take to the air Find out more: Visit iwm.org.uk/ airshows/duxford-battle-ofbritain-airshow GTW

Beautiful

South

GTW readers June and Clive Mansfield sample life on the sunny south coast on a short break at Daish’s Imperial Hotel in Eastbourne

L

OOKING FOR A great value break, in a comfortable hotel with friendly, helpful staff that’s close to Eastbourne’s

pretty seafront and pier? Daish’s has just the holiday for you.

One of two new additions to the Daish’s portfolio (along with Abbey Lawn Hotel in Torquay) it’s within easy access of the beach and a mile or so’s walk from the main town centre – though we just hopped on a bus to get to the shops, our walking ability marred by one achy knee and a dodgy ankle!

Said local buses also took us to nearby Hastings and Burling Gap – the latter a lovely, very relaxing National Trust site that’s part of the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs. There’s a visitors’ centre and toilets by the car park and it was easy to get to by bus. In fact we couldn’t fault the local bus routes, which included an open top hop on, hop off service on the Seven Sisters Bus & Coach (see ssbusandcoach.co.uk).

Of course, on a Daish’s holiday, a full itinerary of daily excursions is always included, which, at just ￡10 a head, is fantastic value. In our case, the trips were never booked

Great for groups Daish’s offers holidays for all, from couples to families, but really comes into its own when it comes to group breaks. The team can tailor-make coach holidays to suit your group’s size, interests and needs. Chat to them today to see what they can offer. Call the dedicated groups team on 01202 638841 or email groups@daishs.com.

50 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

The hotel is located just off Eastbourne’s Grand Parade

Tried & tested

WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM 51

up, so we tended to leave it until the day to sign up so we could check the weather.

We did use the service to visit Brighton one day, with the choice to hop off in either the centre of the town or at the pier. We opted for the latter and were ‘treated’ to the sight of around 200 naked cyclists. Turns out we’d timed our visit to coincide with the annual Brighton Naked Bike Ride!

Clive puts his feet up in front of Burling Gap’s National Trust shop

ROOM WITH A VIEW Our room in the hotel had lovely sea views and we couldn’t fault the cleanliness or comfort. The room had

evening from around 9pm for guests

a fan, which was much appreciated

looking to relax with a glass of wine

as we visited during June’s heatwave,

(bar prices were pretty standard, with

though we couldn’t open the windows

a glass of wine around ￡6).

very far, which was a shame as it would have been nice to let the sea

DINNER IS SERVED…

breeze in.

Our break was half board and the food

The hotel has a coffee shop,

at the hotel was a mix of typical British

bar and restaurant, as well as live

fare. I was a little disappointed in the

entertainment every evening. As the

lack of flexibility in ordering. There is

weather was so cracking we didn’t

one dining sitting, at 6.30pm, and you

tend to stay in the hotel after dinner,

have to pre-order the night before

preferring to take a walk to the prom

for both breakfast and dinner. On the

in the cooler evening air, but there

breakfast menu choices are limited.

are singers and entertainers every

For instance, you can ‘tick’ the option

GOING AS A GROUP? ■ The Imperial Hotel in

■ Short breaks from ￡169pp

Eastbourne, East Sussex, is located

self-drive and ￡189pp by coach.

just off the Grand Parade.

■ The Daish’s holiday package

■ It’s part of UK-based family-

includes luxury coach travel or

owned coach holiday provider

free hotel guest parking on-site;

to have a glass of orange juice or

Daish’s Holidays, and was awarded

convenient pick-up and drop-off

Cornflakes, but not both, and I would

a TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice

points; breakfast and three-course

have preferred a buffet-style affair

Award in 2023 for the second

evening meal every day, as well as

that offers more choice.

year running.

on-site entertainment.

■ The hotel is Daish’s largest, with

■ Find out more about all the

were obliging on the odd occasion

113 bedrooms offering views across

Daish’s hotels across the UK at

we did have to alter our menu choices

the bay and out to sea.

daishs.com

a little. I guess if you tend to have

Having said that, however, the staff

the same things every morning for breakfast it will work for you!

52 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

Tried & tested

Burling Gap is a short bus ride away – part of the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs

The Imperial has 113 rooms, in a mix of single, twin, double and triple rooms

I also have to add that all the food,

the luggage handling was

especially at breakfast, was very tasty

smooth, the driver very

and well made.

friendly and welcoming and he made plenty of comfort

A GRAND ARRIVAL

stops en route. We were dropped off

great location near the front. Special

Daish’s offers guests the choice to

right in front of the hotel and check in

thanks go to our driver, Graham, who

travel on any of their holidays by

was very efficient.

looked after us well on the journey to

coach or make their own way there.

All in all, it was fantastic value,

and from the hotel, as well as the staff

We went by coach and the service

we loved Eastbourne and the

at the hotel, who were always happy

was excellent. Picked up in Leicester,

surrounding area, and the hotel is in a

to help. GTW WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM 53

Sign up today…

Above: Glorious Hull marina: turn to page 60 to sign up to the city’s Freedom Festival fam trip in September Left: GTW’s Emma (far left) and Lucy (far right) at the NMA

Join us!

Our GTW Networking Event at the National Memorial Arboretum in May went down a storm, and Emma Parkes and Lucy Mawdsley are busy planning their next showcase event at the National Football Museum in September – which is FREE for GTW Club members to attend. Find out more and sign up at GroupTravelWorld.com

54 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

And discover the benefits of becoming a GTW Club Supplier Member

T

HE TEAM AT the VHEY tourism partnership (Visit Hull and East Yorkshire) are among the growing number of group friendly organisations and attractions who are signing up to be GTW Club Supplier Members.

See all the benefits and sign up at GroupTravelWorld.com, or chat to Lucy Mawdsley for more details– email lucy.mawdsley@grouptravelworld.com.

“GTW Club Supplier Members can receive professional guidance with group travel bookings, an annual subscription to GTW magazine, networking opportunities, exclusive offers and discounts with Steve Reed Tourism Consultancy and lots more,” says Lucy.

“We work alongside our members to understand their business and offer support, ideas and inspiration.” GTW

EXPERIENCE THE HOME OF HORSERACING

Guided Tours Experience the magic of Newmarket’s famous gallops, go behind the scenes at some of the most prestigious training yards and studs in the world or enjoy a guided tour of the National Horseracing Museum. Whether a racing enthusiast or a lover of history, food or art, our range of guided tours and themed walks provide memorable experiences.

Check out our website for a full list of available dates and tours on offer.

Discover Newmarket offer visitors a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes at racing’s headquarters to see equine stars at work and learn about the fascinating history, heritage and culture of the town.

discovernewmarket.co.uk @DiscoverNKT

discovernewmarket

@discovernkt

ENJOY A WARM WELCOME AT THE

HEATH COURT HOTEL

PRE & POST RACING DINING & DRINKS | DELICIOUS SEASONAL MENUS | FREE CAR PARKING | 41 BEDROOMS | FREE WIFI | PRIVATE DINING FACILICTIES MOULTON ROAD, NEWMARKET, SUFFOLK CB8 8DY RESERVATIONS: 01638 667171 | RESTAURANT: 01638 676321

Horseplay!

Emma Parkes on why getting up close to Newmarket’s racing scene is well worth a bet 56 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

A

GLORIOUS JUNE DAY set the

been synonymous with the sport of

scene for our latest GTW Club

kings for centuries, and today the

fam trip – a behind the scenes

strings of Thoroughbred horses

tour of the home of racing in the

who can be seen out on exercise

very capable hands of the team

are still treated like royalty.

at Discover Newmarket, joined by

Our day came under starter’s

GTW’s Tracey Carroll and a lovely

orders at the National Horseracing

mix of GTOs. This Suffolk town has

Museum, with light refreshments

RICHARD THOMAS/VISITS FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS

from the bakery that’s based in

Newmarket, greeted us and explained

Luckily for us, several mares with

the King’s Yard, just opposite the

the itinerary for the day ahead. First

their foals were happy to come over

entrance to Palace House (anyone

up was a short hop on a 16-seater

to the fence for a fuss and a photo as

who’s passing can pop into the

minibus to The National Stud for

we all bundled out of the minibus.

King’s Yard and shop at the bakery

an insight into the Thoroughbred

and sample its food and drinks).

breeding industry. An avenue of trees

RACING’S FINEST

Char Collins, our tour guide, and

marked the entrance to the stud, with

A highlight for me was catching

Emma Groom, both from Discover

lush green paddocks lining each side.

a glimpse in the distance of the WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM 57

‘Shoeing the bay mare’

by Sir Edwin Landseer

remarkable stallion Stradivarius, who’s now one of the resident stallions. In just seven seasons he earned close to ￡3.5 million in prize money, along with two million-pound bonuses.

He was, of course, a winning team with his jockey Frankie Dettori, trainer John Gosden and owner Bjorn Nielsen. Now retired from racing at the tender age of eight, he’s very happy in his new role!

Emma (centre) with GTW readers in the King’s Yard

RICHARD THOMAS/VISITS FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS

Hopping back on the bus, next up

After all that excitement it was time for

The hairs on the back of my neck

lunch at the three-star, 43-bedroom

stood up as I spotted the horses at

Best Western Heath Court Hotel,

the foot of the hill waiting their turn

located on Moulton Road just a few

to stretch their legs. All the trainers

hundred feet from the gallops.

have their own colours, and the

This hotel has special group

tour guide was so knowledgeable,

rates, ample parking for coaches

telling us all the trainers’ names.

and an amazing selection of trophies

Originally opened during the rule of

Tracey and Emma on the Warren Hill Gallops

58 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

FINE DINING

was a trip to the Warren Hill Gallops.

on show from the racing world.

King Charles II in 1666, today around

Some of the rooms have a view of

16,000 horses use these gallops

Warren Hill – and all this just 350

every month: a great opportunity for

yards from the town centre.

Richard Thomas (one of our GTOs

Rob, the proud manager, and

from Visits for Photographers) to

his team provided a warm, friendly

take the shot you can see here...

and very welcoming service.

Want to follow in our hoofprints?

Head to discover newmarket.co.uk

Tours run daily

by Sir Edwin Landseer. It hung in her

at 11am and 2pm

farmhouse for many years, then I

for all visitors to

inherited it when she passed away. It

the museum.

found a new place in my house above

The Palace House

the fireplace and became even more

gallery – literally across

faded in colour, but not in memory.

the road from the museum – is home to a glorious mix of 17th

For my 50th birthday my mum brought me a fresh print of it from

century sporting art depicting rural

the Tate. It’s always been a dream

sports such as hunting, hawking,

to see the original of this artwork

shooting and horse racing.

– and there it hung in front of me in

My visit proved particularly

Palace House. I was so moved I admit

poignant as the date (14 June) would

I did have a little tear. In fact I came

ORIGINAL ART WORKS

have been my late grandmother’s

away from the whole tour inspired

Lunch over, we headed back to

birthday – a farmer and a fellow horse

and very moved. This site is fully

The National Horseracing Museum

lover. On a visit to the Tate Modern

immersive and engaging for all age

to explore the five-acre site,

in London in the 1960s she brought

groups and interests, not just for the

Palace House art gallery, and the

a print called ‘Shoeing the bay mare’

horse-mad folk among us. GTW

working yard run by the charity RoR (Rehabilitation of Racehorses), which has a four-acre paddock, an arena

Don’t miss this...

and houses six retired racehorses.

The National Horseracing Museum is home to

Every day, from Tuesday to Sunday,

various displays throughout the year and, from

you can meet and greet the horses

now until October, it’s one of three Suffolk venues

in the immaculately kept Rothschild

to host the exciting Urban Frame: Mutiny in Colour

Yard and gain an insight into what

exhibition. Showing works from the world’s most

happens to these beautiful creatures

famous artists – including Banksy, Damien Hurst, Tracey Emin and the

once their racing career is over and

Connor Brothers, read more in our special report on page 27.

they are retrained for another career.

WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM 59

Visit Hull three-day Freedom Festival You’re ToFamtheTrip,exclusive showcasing all that’s great about invited… the historic waterfront city of Hull

H

ELD FROM FRIDAY 1 to Sunday 3 September 2023, join the team at Visit Hull as they showcase one of the UK’s best outdoor arts festivals, together with luxurious accommodation, top notch restaurants, incredible group friendly attractions and, of course, give a taste of everything else that the beautiful and historic waterfront city of Hull has to offer groups.

Emma Parkes from the GTW Club will be at the event – join her for three days of group travel fun. But hurry!

The closing date for registering is Friday August 18.

60 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

The itinerary includes: ■ Check into the 4* Doubletree by Hilton from 2pm on Friday and meet your host, Tina Mott ■ Head to The Lexington Rooftop Bar at the hotel for a special networking event from 5pm ■ Enjoy an evening meal in the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar and Grill ■ On the Saturday, see behind the scenes of the Hull Maritime Project, followed by lunch and an afternoon at the Freedom Festival ■ On Sunday, explore Hull’s Museums Quarter before heading back to the Freedom Festival in the afternoon GTW

Sign up now!

You’ll get...  The services of a fam trip host all weekend  Two nights’ accommodation at the 4* Doubletree by Hilton  All for just ￡50 per person  To sign up email Tina Mott at Tina.Mott@vhey.co.uk before Friday August 18

IT MUST BE HULL visithull.org #MustBeHull

GROUPS

A magical city with a surprise around every corner, Hull is Yorkshire’s beating maritime heart, rich in history and enchanted by its stories.

From the idyllic marina and its waterfront eateries to remarkable museums and independent retailers, there’s far more to this city than you could ever imagine.

For that group trip you will never forget, it must be Hull.

WELCOME

PLAN YOUR

TRIP

Hullgrouptravel.com Hull For Groups

Group friendly

Feel illuminated

Find out more at leonardsleegardens .co.uk

Enjoy a magical winter experience at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens Photos: Ray Gibson

T

HIS WINTER, VISITORS to Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens in Horsham, West Sussex, can enjoy an after-dark light trail as the gardens come alive with colour and sound during this year’s Leonardslee Illuminated event. Open between 4pm and 10pm, with light trails running from 4.15pm to 8.15pm, the event will take place on various dates from 24 November to 21 December.

Now in its fifth year, Leonardslee Illuminated at the historic 240-acre Grade I Listed estate will transport visitors into a magical world as the gardens are transformed with large-scale installations and 62 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

atmospheric soundscapes. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with a Victorian funfair, a small Christmas market, a selection of seasonal food and drink and other entertainment before entering the mile-long trail.

“Visitors can explore the lit trails and walk down through the valley, decked with fairy lights and lanterns, giant flowers and mythical animals,” says Adam Streeter, General Manager. ‘There will be displays of stars and planets suspended over the seven lakes, reflecting the sparkling lights and the towering lakeside trees. There are fairground

attractions, mulled wine and other food and drink to enjoy either before or after the trail, which is around 60 to 90 minutes long.”

Tickets are available online – at a reduced price this year – from ￡16 for adults and ￡9 per child. Annual membership at Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens starts from ￡60. GTW

!

X A L E R

while we take care of all of your direct mailing needs!

data

printing

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get in touch:

first or de

r.

Please contac t using p u romo c s TW10P ode orders D must b

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27 NOV – 13 JAN

LYRICS BY TIM RICE MUSIC BY ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER DIRECTED BY NIKOLAI FOSTER ORCHESTRATIONS BY DAVID CULLEN AND ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER BASED ON ORCHESTRATIONS ORIGINALLY BY ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER

BY ARRANGEMENT WITH THE REALLY USEFUL GROUP LTD

Enhance your experience of Curve's Christmas musical spectacular with these special packages.

SHOW BOX

CHRISTMAS GROUPS PACKAGE

The SHOW BOX is only £15* in addition to your ticket booking.

This entire package is only £50 per person, when you bring 10 or more people to see a performance of Evita.†

Single serve bottle of Prosecco Bottle of water • Interval ice-cream Packet of chocolates

Top price tickets Evita Show programme Pre-show drink drink* • Interval ice-cream

*See our website for terms and conditions. †Only on selected performances.

Get set for

2023

16 PAGES of festive ideas

Let the

Fun begin!

It’s not Christmas without a visit to the much-loved Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market – which is free to enter!

in a wonderful festive atmosphere.

Plus, a community stage sits right at the heart of the Christmas Market in the food court area, where visitors can enjoy the talents of the local community as well as visiting acts.

AKING PLACE from 17 November

T

world. The pretty wooden chalets,

to 21 December, Winchester

situated in the historic grounds,

TOUR THE CATHEDRAL

Cathedral’s Christmas Market is

are inspired by traditional German

The festive fun doesn’t stop at the

recognised as one of the best in

Christmas Markets.

market. Step inside Europe’s longest

Europe – and it’s free to enter!

Combined with the festive lighting,

medieval cathedral nave to complete

the sound of Christmas carols and the

your trip and discover more than

atmosphere, stunning location and

aroma of mulled wine and cinnamon,

1,000 years of history.

hand-picked, high quality exhibitors,

your group can browse the Christmas

it attracts groups from all over the

gifts and souvenirs

Renowned for its bustling

66 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

A number of Advent and Christmas services will be taking place during the

Christmas 2023

Find out more at winchester-cathedral .org.uk

Christmas Market, from carol services

three-level exhibition in the

themed guided tours, provide catering

to Advent Evensongs. Worship

cathedral’s South Transept, which

packages, and assist with other aspects

at Winchester Cathedral is free of

will take your group on an interactive

of planning, such as the length of

charge and your group would be most

journey showcasing some of the

visit, advice on travel and parking and

welcome to attend.

nation’s greatest treasures.

neighbouring sites of interest.

Groups who are feeling adventurous

Highlights include the Winchester

can climb the cathedral tower, which

Bible, one of the UK’s finest

SEE FOR YOURSELF

offers views across Winchester and

illuminated manuscripts, the

A special rate of ￡10pp applies for

the surrounding county. Walk the

17th century Morley Library and

groups of 10 or more, including entry

length of the nave roof with its huge

the story of the cathedral’s mortuary

and a cathedral tour. Plus, coach

wood beams, and discover the ringing

chests, believed to contain the

drivers get a voucher to use at the

chamber and the great cathedral bells

remains of Saxon royalty.

Cathedral Café (they must show their

(advance booking is essential).

All groups, large and small, are

work ID on arrival at the café). To plan

Also on offer is ‘Kings and Scribes:

welcome. Winchester Cathedral

your visit email the team at visits@

The Birth of a Nation’, a spectacular

can arrange general interest and

winchester-cathedral.org.uk GTW WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM 67

A festive extravaganza There’s so much to discover in Birmingham this Christmas, from festive markets to shows...

A CHRISTMAS SHOPPER’S MECCA You’ll find high street and designer brands in the city centre, Victorian arcades, the Bullring and Grand Central and The Mailbox. Not

F

ROM NOVEMBER, the Birmingham

Market is the world’s largest authentic

forgetting the department stores

Frankfurt Christmas Market is

German market outside of Germany

Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and

set to transform the city into a winter

and Austria and a must-visit for groups.

House of Frazer. Looking for jewellery,

wonderland. But that’s not all!

It runs from 2 November until

Coupled with the city’s vibrant

24 December with more than 50 stalls

throw away from the city centre is

culture, museums, theatre scene

selling gifts, toys, food and drink

the historic Jewellery Quarter, where

and attractions it’s no wonder

spread across New Street and Victoria

you’ll find the highest concentration

Forbes Magazine named this the

Square. Nearby is Christmas in

of jewellers in the UK. The district is

most Christmassy city in the UK.

Cathedral Square, with wooden

also home to boutique shops and

chalets showcasing gifts, food

some of Birmingham’s best-reviewed

FESTIVE MARKETS

and drink made by the best of

restaurants.

The Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas

Birmingham’s local producers.

antiques or vintage clothing? A stone’s

ENTERTAINMENT AND SHOWS Birmingham is blessed with worldclass theatres and performance venues. You’ll find some of the best touring music concerts at the Utilita Arena, Town Hall and Symphony Hall.

At the Birmingham Hippodrome, what could be more Christmassy than the return of the Birmingham Royal Ballet’s classic production of The Nutcracker or the pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk? And direct from the West End, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe will be running at the Birmingham Rep.

MUSEUMS AND ATTRACTIONS The city centre and the Jewellery

Get me there!

Quarter is home to a number of attractions, from the quirky

To book early bird coach parking and find out more about all the events

Pen Museum and the Newman

taking place this winter, visit ChristmasInBirmingham.com

Brothers Coffin Works to the National Sealife Centre. GTW

68 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

Christmas 2023

WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM 69

Christmas 2023

It’s show time

Enjoy a festive show at Curve, Leicester Photo: Hitz Rao

T

RAVEL TO A New Argentina this Christmas as Curve presents its unmissable new Made at Curve production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary musical Evita, from Monday 27 November

2023 to Saturday 13 January 2024.

As Eva Duarte, a child born into poverty, she followed her dreams of becoming an actress. As Eva Perón, she captured the hearts of Argentina’s working classes,

broke new ground for women in politics and became the most powerful woman in Latin America.

Directed by Curve’s Artistic Director Nikolai Foster (The Wizard of Oz, A Chorus Line and West Side Story), this multi award-winning musical features countless unforgettable songs including Buenos Aires, Another Suitcase In Another Hall, Oh What A Circus and the anthemic Don’t Cry For Me Argentina. GTW

Turn to p64 to read more about the theatre

GOING AS A GROUP? Book for Evita today and enjoy a special Christmas Groups Package when you bring a group of 10 or more on selected performances. For ￡50 per person, you’ll each get a top-price ticket, an Evita show programme, a pre-show drink and an interval ice cream.

Alternatively, add some sparkle to

72 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

your visit with the Evita Show Box, including a single-serve bottle of prosecco, a bottle of water, an interval ice-cream and a packet of chocolates. The Show Box is only ￡15 in addition to your ticket booking.

To book for your group, with an option to reserve now and pay later, contact Curve’s Group Sales Team on

groupbookings@curvetheatre.co.uk – you can also contact the team by phone on 0116 242 3595.

Audio Described, British Sign Language Interpreted, Captioned, Dementia Friendly and Relaxed Performances are available throughout the run, see curveonline.co.uk

Christmas 2023

A gift of a tour Enjoy a festive shopping spree at Covent Garden’s hugely historic Jubilee Market 74 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

R

IGHT IN THE heart of London’s Covent Garden, the world famous Jubilee Market welcomes groups of 15-plus, who can give their Christmas shopping trip a twist with a 45-minute guided walking tour of Covent Garden, a range

of group friendly dining options, and discount wristbands to use at all the stands. Plus, on the last Thursday of every month, there’s a free lunchtime concert in the market square. Prices start from ￡7, see jubileemarket.co.uk GTW

Buckfast Abbey is a registered Charity No. 232497

Explore Devon’s Hidden Gem The monks welcome you to their home and hope you find peace and rest here. Enjoy the Abbey’s beautiful architecture and gardens, Monastic Way exhibition, restaurants and shop, perhaps extend your visit with an overnight stay in Northgate House Hotel.

Groups welcome. Call to discuss how to make your group booking special, booking essential.

Groups: 01364 645532 or Accommodation: 01364 645630 and quote GPTLW623CH

Concerts and events all year round, check website for latest special offers and events Abbey Church • Working Monastery • Exhibition • Gardens • Shops • Restaurant • Hotel & Conference Centre • Well behaved dogs on short leads welcome Buckfast Abbey, Buckfastleigh, Devon TQ110EE • www.buckfast.org.uk

SHOPPING EVENTS GUIDED TOURS

RESTAURANT SNACK BAR GROUP DISCOUNTS

Covent Garden’s historic indoor Jubilee Market has plenty to offer groups for a fabulous Christmas shopping trip.

You can also book our 45-minute guided walking tour of Covent Garden and include a refreshments package. info@jubileemarket.co.uk @jubileemarket

www.jubileemarket.co.uk

@jubilee.market

@jubileemarket75

Christmas 2023

60 Discover the waterfront city of Hull on a special fam trip

32 Race off to Silverstone

The Bristol Christmas Market embraces the true spirit of the season

N

ESTLED IN THE heart of the city, the Bristol Christmas Market brings festive cheer to groups keen to sample its beautifully decorated stalls and wooden cabins as the scent of mulled wine fills the air.

With an array of unique stalls from local artisans and craftsmen, it’s the perfect place to find that one-of-a-kind Christmas present – but it’s not just about the shopping: it’s also a hub of festive 76 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

Christmas at Waddesdon Once the country home of the Rothschilds, Waddesdon, a French Renaissance-style cha^teau in the rolling hills of Aylesbury Vale, is a group friendly gem all year round – but Christmas is especially magical.

This year sees its Christmas Fair run from 22 November to 17 December, with entry included with the Christmas Grounds admission or Christmas House and Grounds. Find out more at waddesdon.org.uk/ whats-on/christmas-fair/

CHRIS LACEY (C) WADDESDON MANOR, A ROTHSCHILD HOUSE & GARDENS

Festive cheer

entertainment with live music and carol singers, while youngsters will love Santa’s magic train ride.

The Market has a strong sense of community, with local businesses and organisations coming together, and also acts as a platform for local charities, promoting their causes and raising much-needed funds.

Held from 3 November to 23 December, plan your visit at 20 Explore Bolton Castle this summer – and win tickets! bristolchristmasmarket.com GTW

CHRISTMAS AT WADDESDON

A perfect festive day out for your group

CHRISTMAS FAIR | HOUSE DECORATIONS | LIGHT TRAIL Special group rates . groups@waddesdon.org.uk . waddesdon.org.uk/groups Near Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP18 0JH

TRADITIONAL FERRIS WHEEL

SPECTACULAR LIGHTS

50 UNIQUE STALLS

MAGICAL MARKET

JÄGERBARN BAR

LIVE MUSIC

CHRISTMAS MARKET

BR T

IN THE COUNTRY

10am to 10pm

BRISTOLCHRISTMASMARKET.COM

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10am to 7pm

Food stalls & Jägerbarn bar open

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Gift & craft stalls are open

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BRISTOL BROADMEAD VOTED BEST CHRISTMAS SHOPPING QUARTER

A magical visitor attraction in the heart of Bristol

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3 NOVEMBER – 23 DECEMBER 2023

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Christmas 2023

Littledonkey...

Enjoy Christmas with the ultimate stars of any nativity play at The Donkey Sanctuary in Devon ■ A maze near Buffalo Barn, home to

N

O TRIP TO Devon is complete without visiting The Donkey Sanctuary and, at Christmas, this award-winning attraction really comes to life. Not only does the Sidmouth charity give groups the chance to meet and learn about these wonderful creatures, but it offers guided tours and talks.

Other highlights include: ■ The award-winning, group friendly 78 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM

Taste of the West restaurant ■ The Kitchen for breakfast, drinks, snacks and cakes – overlooking the donkeys’ winter paddocks and the Jurassic Coast ■ Great value menus are available for pre-booked groups, including traditional Devon cream teas – with every penny of profit helping millions of donkeys around the world ■ A gift shop ideal for Christmas present buying

the sanctuary’s Poitou donkeys The sanctuary is open from 9am, 364 days a year, with free admission and free parking, including a dedicated coach lane for easy drop-off. Coach drivers eat for free, and a guided tour or talk is included with all group bookings.

Pre-booking is essential with a minimum of one week’s notice. For more information, visit thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/ sidmouth or call 01395 578222. GTW

Christmas Cruises in Devon

FREE PARKING EASY ACCESS DRIVERS EAT FREE ALL UNDER ONE ROOF

Sailing every day over the Christmas and New Year period!

01395 222144 info@stuartlinecruises.co.uk

2085 GROUP TRAVEL 2023.indd 1

30/05/2023 08:36

E VERY SMILE

is wor thwhile

Pre-booking essential

SIDMOUTH, EX10 0NU

thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/sidmouth

A registered charity

LAKES & GARDENS

OV 24 N

- 21 DEC

Explore

magical , illuminated gardens the

awash with

sound and colour .

PRICES REDUCED FOR 2023 10% OFF Tickets from £16 per adult plus booking fee

light ,

for groups

minimum of 15

groups@leonardsleegardens.co.uk