VisitBritain_Itineraries, Discovering Britain and Northern Ireland_01

Culzean Castle Strathclyde, Scotland

Millennium Stadium Cardiff, Wales

ITINERARIES

visitbritain.com/media

DISCOVERING BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND

Giant’s Causeway Northern Ireland

Dartmoor National Park, Devon, England

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Introduction How to use Welcome to Britain! We’re excited to be showcasing the depth and diversity of landscapes, experiences and people our country has to offer you both during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games or at any other time you choose to visit.

You might be fooled in to thinking that we are small in size but we are prodigious in the scope of itineraries we have selected to match your interests and schedule. You will be spoilt for choice in selecting where and what to visit. You may re-discover favourite haunts or stumble upon hidden gems, whichever is right for you – a one, two, three or four day itinerary to explore our varied regions from the graceful Cotswold’s countryside to the coast of Wales.

London is the Lonely Planet Guide’s No.1 destination this year, and it has rated Glasgow in the top five cities to visit in the world; not to mention NewcastleGateshead, which it calls the ‘hipster capital of the north’. Or, if your interest lies in more historical, quaint, natural or wild and windswept landscapes, Britain really does have it all – the majestic Jurassic coastline in Dorset, Mersea Island Vineyard, producers of fine wines and real ale in Essex; horse-drawn carriage rides through the royal landscape of the Windsor Great Park; exploring around Scotland’s Castle Douglas; the annual Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, or watching adorable puffins and seals at play on Wales’ Puffin Island, are just a few of the experiences we have featured – the choice is yours!

This is a wonderful opportunity to make the most of your visit to experience firsthand the magnificent diversity Britain offers, and this guide will ensure you immerse yourself as much as you have the time and inclination into the distinctive, beautiful and at times eccentric experiences available in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Channel Islands.

In this essential guide, we have made every effort to make your visit and choice of itineraries as seamless as a Regency ladies tailoring, and that provides you with all the information needed to experience each individual itinerary; click on the Contents Page to take you to the sections - England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Channel Islands Then, within each section, you will find categories for regions offering one, two, three, four, five, six and seven day itineraries including hotels, attractions and events, tours and transport, sport, restaurants and bars. Each entry details the itinerary, describes what you will experience, who to contact or links you to a website providing more information.

This is just a taste of the best of Britain, so you can gather ideas and information that will thrill your readers and viewers.

Britain – You’re Invited.

Paul Gauger Global Leader, 2012 Games Media www.visitbritain.com/media

Media contacts in Americas New York Meredith Pearson PR Executive USA 845 Third Avenue, Floor 10, New York, NY 10022 T: 001 212 850 0377 C: 001 917 412 0124 E: meredith.pearson@visitbritain.org Kathleen O’Connell PR Executive USA 845 Third Avenue, Floor 10, New York, NY 10022 T: 001 212 850 0364 E: kathleen.oconnell@visitbritain.org Callum Roberts Business Development Assistant 845 Third Avenue, Floor 10, New York, NY 10022 T: 001 212 850 0336 E: callum.roberts@visitbritain.org Lisa Kearns PR & Communications Executive 845 Third Avenue, Floor 10, New York, NY 10022 T: 001 212 850 0327 E: lisa.kearns@visitbritain.org

Los Angeles Katrina Early Film Tourism and PR Manager (West Coast) 11766 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 1200, Los Angeles, CA 90025 T: 00 1 310 268 2132 F: 00 1 310 481 2960 E: katrina.early@visitbritain.org Odalys Flores E: odalys.flores@visitbritain.org

Canada Ted Flett PR & Communications Manager 160 Bloor Street East, Suite 905, Toronto, Ontario, M4W 1B9 T: 001 416 646 6676 F: 001 416 642 2240 C: 001 647.202.4184 E: ted.flett@visitbritain.org

Brazil Mitsi Goulias Press & PR Manager Centro Brasileiro Britanico, Rua Ferreira de Araujo 741, 1 Andar, Pinheiros, Sao Paulo, Sp, 05428-002 Brazil T: 0055 11 3245 7653 F: 0055 11 3245 7651 E: mitsi.goulias@visitbritain.org 4

Media contacts in APAC India and Middle East China - Beijing Tamily Liu Press & PR Executive Beijing Cultural and Education Section of the British Embassy, 4/F Landmark Building,Tower 1, 8 North Dongsanhuan Road, Chaoyang District, 100004, Beijing, China T: 0086 10 65906903 F: 0086 10 6590 0977 E: tamily.liu@visitbritain.org

China - Shanghai Bonnie Hua Press & PR Manager - China & Hong Kong VisitBritain/Cultural and Education Section British Consulate General Shanghai 1st Floor Pidemco Tower, 318 Fu Zhou Lu , Shanghai 200001, China T: 0086 21 5117 5838 E: Bonnie.Hua@visitbritain.org

Hong Kong Janice Cheung Representative HK & South China T: 00852 35157878 E: janice.cheung@visitbritain.org

India Srishti Bhatia PR Executive - India 202-203 JMD Regent Square, Merhrauli-Gurgaon Road, Gurgaon 122001, Haryana, India T: 0091 124 262 4255 M: +0091 981 003 5669 F: 0091 124 262 4200 E: srishti.bhatia@visitbritain.org

Japan Katsue Takeshima PR Manager VisitBritain, Kenkyusha Eigo Centre Bldg 3F, 1-2 Kagurazaka, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Japan 162-0825 T: 0081 03 5227 6233 F: 0081 03 5227 6240 E: katsue.takeshima@visitbritain.org

Australia Sarah Stevenson B2B and PR Executive Level 16, 1 Macquarie Place, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia T: 0061 2 8247 2248 E: sarah.stevenson@visitbritain.org

UAE and Saudi Arabia Carol Maddison Manager, UAE PO Box 33342 2nd Floor, Sharaf Building, Khalid Bin Waleed Road, Dubai, U.A.E T: 009 71 4 3960809 E: carol.maddison@visitbritain.org PR Agency: Sharon Salazar T: 00 971 4 390 1950 sharon.salazar@wallis-mc.com PLEASE ONLY CONTACT PR AGENCY THROUGH CAROL MADDISON

Media contacts in Europe Belgium Myriam De Mulder Press Executive Avenue D’Auderghem-Oudergemselaan 10 1040 Brussels T: 00 322 287 6223 M: 00 322 472 487964 E: Myriam.DeMulder@visitbritain.org

Denmark Jette Ward Representative Denmark Kristianeiagade 8, 3rd floor, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark T: 00 45 3375 5005 F: 00 45 3375 5080 E: jette.ward@visitbritain.org

France Florence Valette Communications Manager VisitBritain BP 70-154 75363 Paris Cedex 08 T: 0033 (0) 1 44 51 34 95 F: 0033 (0) 1 44 51 34 91 E: florence.valette@visitbritain.org

Germany Andrea Hetzel Media Relations Manager Dorotheenstr. 54 10117 Berlin T: 0049 30 3157 1941 F: 0049 30 31571940 E: Andrea.Hetzel@visitbritain.org Sabine Kalkmann PR Executive Dorotheenstr. 54 10117 Berlin T: 0049 30 3157 1942 F: 0049 30 3157 1940 E: sabine.kalkmann@visitbritain.org

Italy

Spain

Destination PR:

Silvia Bocciarelli Press and PR VisitBritain Italia c/o Consolato Britannico Via San Paolo 7 20121 Milano T: 00 39 02 72300228 F: 00 39 02 72020153 M: 00 39 340 3524660 E: silvia.bocciarelli@visitbritain.org

Maria Eugenia Benito Press and PR VisitBritain British Embassy Torre Espacio Paseo de la Castellana 259D 28046 Madrid T: 0034 91 714 6498 M: 0034 647 57 36 54 E: maria.benito@visitbritain.org (not open to the public)

Jo Leslie Head of International Destination PR T: 0044 (0) 20 7578 1037 E: jo.leslie@visitbritain.org

Netherlands

Sweden

Margot Eggink Media Relations Manager Prins Hendrikkade 186, 1011 TD Amsterdam (Postal address Postbus 20650, 1001 NR Amsterdam) T: 00 31 206077706 F: 00 31 206186868 E: margot.eggink@visitbritain.org

Helene Hofverberg Press and PR Manager Box 3102, SE- 103 62 Stockholm T: 00 46 8 4401 706 M: 00 46 702 58 64 53 E: helene.hofverberg@visitbritain.org

Norway

Switzerland/Austria

Kim Lovlie Marketing Executive VisitBritain Norway British Embassy 0244 Oslo T: 00 47 23 13 65 80 M: 00 47 971 04 944 E: kim.lovlie@visitbritain.org

Andrea Hetzel Media Relations Manager Dorotheenstr. 54 10117 Berlin T: 0049 30 3157 1941 F: 0049 30 31571940 E: Andrea.Hetzel@visitbritain.org

Poland Joanna Sosnowska Marketing Representative VisitBritain British Council, Al. Jerozolimskie 59 00-697 Warszawa T: 0048 22 695 59 25 E: joanna.sosnowska@visitbritain.org

Russia Ekaterina Merenchuk PR & Marketing Executive 10 Smolenskaya Naberezhnaya, Moscow, 121009 T: 00 74 95 95 67 310 E: ekaterina.merenchuk@visitbritain.org

Sabine Kalkmann PR Executive Dorotheenstr. 54 10117 Berlin T: 0049 30 3157 1942 F: 0049 30 3157 1940 E: sabine.kalkmann@visitbritain.org

Media contacts in London 2012 Games Media: Paul Gauger Global Leader 2012 Games Media T: 0044 (0) 20 7578 1180 M: 0044 (0) 7884 233 647 E: paul.gauger@visitbritain.org

Val Austin International Press Visits Manager T: 0044 (0) 20 7578 1039 E: val.austin@visitbritain.org Rose Hughes International Press Visits Officer T: 0044 (0) 20 7578 1038 E: rose.hughes@visitbritain.org Emma Fitzgerald International Press Visits Officer T: 0044 (0) 20 7578 1032 E: emma.fitzgerald@visitbritain.org Emma Wilkinson International Press Visits Officer T: 0044 (0) 20 7578 1156 E: Emma.Wilkinson@visitbritain.org Rmishka Singh PR Editor T: 0044 (0) 20 7578 1155 E: Rmishka.Singh@visitbritain.org Corporate PR: Mark Di-Toro Press Officer T: 0044 (0) 20 7578 1098 M: 0044 (0) 7919 392 137 E: mark.di-toro@visitbritain.org David Leslie Coporate PR Manager T: 0044 (0) 20 7578 1141 M: 0044 (0) 7919 392 137 E: david.leslie@visitbritain.org

Julian Jacome Broadcast Media Manager, 2012 Media T: 0044 (0) 20 7578 1188 E: Julian.Jacome@visitbritain.org

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CONTENTS England Olympic Venues

Bath

Kent

Guernsey

London

Birmingham

Lancashire

Scotland

Coventry, Warwickshire & Shakespeare’s England

Berkshire, Hampshire & Surrey

Lincolnshire

Brighton

Milton Keynes

Bristol

The National Forest

Buckinghamshire

Norfolk

Wales

Cambridge

Norfolk Broads

Olympic Venues

Cheshire

Northumberland

Cornwall

Nottinghamshire

Cotswolds

Oxfordshire

Cumbria

Peak District

Devon

Shropshire

Durham

Somerset

East Midlands

Staffordshire

East Sussex

Warwickshire & Shakespeare’s England

Hampshire, Isle of Wight & West Sussex

West Sussex

Isle of Wight

Wiltshire

Kent & Hampshire

Yorkshire

Manchester NewcastleGateshead Weymouth, Portland & Dorset Essex Surrey Windsor & Eton Dorney

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Channel Islands

Olympic Venues Glasgow

Cardiff

Northern Ireland

ENGLAND

Durdle Door Dorset Index

Engand

Channel Islands

Scotland

Wales

Northern Ireland

LONDON ROYAL AND HISTORIC LONDON ITINERARY London’s recorded history dates back over 2,000 years. During this time it has grown to become one of the most significant financial and cultural capitals of the world. As a result, there’s a wealth of venues to be discovered, each one packed with stories of the past, just waiting to be told. From royalty to war time London, travel back through the pages of history.

Visit Buckingham Palace SW1A 1AA (Green Park Underground) The Queen’s official London residence has a whopping 775 rooms. The 19 lavishly decorated State Rooms are open to visitors from 31 July to 30 September. The rooms form the heart of the working palace. They’re furnished with some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection including paintings by Rembrandt, sculpture by Canova and some of the finest English and French furniture. www.royalcollection.org.uk PR contact: 020 7839 1377 / press@royalcollection.org.uk Watch the Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace The guard change at Buckingham Palace has an official start time of 11.30am, however the guards start arriving with music at 11.15am. The ceremony runs for 30 minutes and all the guards taking part in the daily ceremony are dressed in traditional red tunics and bearskin hats. The ceremony is set to music and takes place on different days depending on the month you visit. www.royal.gov.uk/RoyalEventsandCeremonies/ChangingtheGuard/Overview.aspx PR contact: 020 7839 1377 / press@royalcollection.org.uk Visit the Royal Mews Buckingham Palace One of the finest working stables in existence, the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace is home to the royal collection of historic coaches and carriages. The most dazzling of all the coaches on display is the Gold State Coach, used as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2002. www.royal.gov.uk/royaleventsandceremonies/changingtheguard/overview PR contact: 020 7839 1377 / press@royalcollection.org.uk

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The Changing of the Guard Buckingham Palace, London Index

LONDON ROYAL AND HISTORIC LONDON ITINERARY Lunch at the Ebury Wine Bar and Restaurant 139 Ebury Street, London SW1 (Sloane Square Underground)

Watch a classical concert at Banqueting House Whitehall, SW1A 2ER (Westminster Underground)

Visit this favourite hang-out of Britain’s best-loved Royal couple William and Catherine, The Ebury brasserie, bar and lounge is a relaxed and has an ever changing menu full of your quintessentially British flavours. http://eburyrestaurant.co.uk PR Contact - Michelle McGrath: 020 7630 1441 / mmcgrath@thecommunicationgroup.co.uk

Banqueting House was designed by Inigo Jones as the perfect place for one of King Charles I’s theatrical parties in 17th century London. These days, Banqueting House is still used for functions and private parties but it's open to the public as well. You'll love the painted ceiling by Rubens, his only work which remains in the location for which it was designed. It is an ideal setting to enjoy the sophistication of a classical concert. www.hrp.org.uk/BanquetingHouse PR contact: 020 3166 6166 / press@hrp.org.uk

Visit Kensington Palace Kensington Gardens, London, W8 4PX (High Street Kensington Underground) The feminine influence of generations of royal women has shaped this stylish palace and elegant gardens. The palace first became a royal residence for William III and Mary II in 1689. The magnificent State Apartments showcase some breathtaking examples of the architect and painter William Kent’s work. This sumptuous series of rooms include the Cupola Room where Princess Victoria was christened. The palace is home to an exquisite collection of English court dress, a unique archive of royal fashion from the 18th century to the present day and includes Diana, Fashion and Style - an exhibition exploring the impact on fashion and shift in style from a demure young princess to that of an international celebrity – glamorous and elegant, featuring several of the couture dresses worn by Diana, Princess of Wales. www.hrp.org.uk/KensingtonPalace PR contact: 020 3166 6166 / press@hrp.org.uk Take a late afternoon stroll through the Royal Parks Take in the beauty and surroundings of London's green spaces with an afternoon walk through St James's Park and Green Park - both within easy access of Kensington Palace. Other Royal Parks to explore include Hyde Park, Regent's Park (which includes ZLS London Zoo), Greenwich Park and Richmond Park. The Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain can be found in Hyde Park. This unique memorial to Diana, Princess of Wales was opened by Her Majesty The Queen on 6 July, 2004. The design reflects Diana's life as the water flows from the highest point in two directions, cascading, swirling and bubbling before meeting in a calm pool at the bottom. There are three bridges where groups can cross the water and go right to the heart of the fountain.

PR contact: 030 0061 2128 / ftherrien@royalparks.gsi.gov.uk

Index

Visit the Churchill War Rooms Clive Steps, King Charles Street, London SW1A 2AQ (Westminster Underground) Deep beneath the bustle of London lie the original Cabinet War Rooms – today part of the Churchill War Rooms – which sheltered people at the heart of Britain’s wartime Government during the Blitz. Immerse yourself in this fascinating piece of living history by discovering the underground maze of historic rooms that once buzzed round-the-clock planning and plotting, strategies and secrets. Uncover the man behind the image at the Churchill Museum. It is the first major museum in the world solely dedicated to Sir Winston Churchill, using cutting-edge technology and multimedia displays to bring his story to life. http://cwr.iwm.org.uk PR contact: 020 7091 3069 / nsmetek@iwm.org.uk Visit HMS Belfast Morgan's Lane, Tooley Street, London, SE1 2JH (London Bridge Underground) Visit HMS Belfast to discover what life was like for those who lived and worked on board this last remaining warship of its kind. Nine decks of amazing seafaring history provide plenty of opportunities to explore. Venture into the Captain’s domain on the Compass Platform, see the shells lying beneath the ship’s waterline, and hear sailors’ stories in the Life at Sea exhibition. You can also find out which far-flung places HMS Belfast visited during her years in active service and learn more about her adventures at sea. http://hmsbelfast.iwm.org.uk PR contact: 020 7091 3069 / nsmetek@iwm.org.uk

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LONDON ROYAL AND HISTORIC LONDON ITINERARY Visit the Imperial War Museum Lambeth Road, London, SE1 6HZ (Elephant & Castle Underground) Discover the story of those who have lived, fought and died in conflict from the First World War to the present day. Learn about the conditions endured by First World War troops in The Trench Experience, explore the role of espionage in The Secret War, and find out about children who lived through evacuation and the Blitz in The Children’s War. The Museum also houses the acclaimed Holocaust Exhibition, and art galleries holding some of the 20th century’s best known paintings. www.iwm.org.uk PR contact: 020 7091 3069 / nsmetek@iwm.org.uk Tour the Royal Albert Hall Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP (South Kensington Underground) The Royal Albert Hall is one of the world’s most famous stages. Opened by Queen Victoria in 1871, the Hall hosts over 360 events which include classical music, jazz, world music, circus, rock, pop, opera, dance, comedy, tennis, dinners, award ceremonies and the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance. The hall offers daytime tours, a shop, Cafe, lunchtime jazz and world music in the Cafe Consort and a free exhibition series as well as a wide range of events for just breaking artists in the newly refurbished Elgar Room. www.royalalberthall.com/default.aspx PR contact: 020 7959 3004 / press@royalalberthall.com Visit the Guildhall Gresham Street, EC2P 2EJ (Bank Underground) This building is the centre of civic government for the square mile of the City of London. The City of London's home at Guildhall has witnessed traitors' trials, heroes’ welcomes freedom ceremonies and glittering state occasions. Home to the municipal government since the 12th Century, it is a rare example of medieval civic architecture, and is a Grade I listed building. www.guildhall.cityoflondon.gov.uk/index.htm

Royal Albert Hall Kensington, London 10

Index

LONDON ROYAL AND HISTORIC LONDON ITINERARY Visit the Tower of London EC3N 4AB (Tower Hill Underground)

Visit St Paul’s Cathedral St Paul's Churchyard, EC4M 8AD (St Paul’s Underground)

The ancient stones reverberate with dark secrets, priceless jewels glint in fortified vaults and ravens strut the grounds. The Tower of London, founded by William the Conquerer in 1066-7, holds some of the most remarkable stories from across the centuries. Despite a grim reputation as a place of torture and death, this powerful and enduring fortress has been enjoyed as a royal palace, served as an armoury and for a number of years even housed a zoo! The famous Yeoman Warders have bloody tales to tell; stand where heads rolled and prisoners wept. The Tower held many famous prisoners, from the highest levels of society; some in astonishing comfort and others less so... Visit the places of their confinement and read the graffiti left by prisoners from over 500 years ago. www.hrp.org.uk PR contact: 020 3166 6166 / press@hrp.org.uk

Enter St Paul’s and enjoy the cathedral's awe-inspiring interior. Venture down to the crypt and discover the tombs and memorials of some of the nation’s greatest heroes such as Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington. Also visit Oculus, an award winning 270° immersive film experience. Visitors can try out the acoustic quirks of the Whispering Gallery and continue the climb to the Golden Gallery to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views across London. www.stpauls.co.uk PR contact: 020 7246 8321 / mark@stpaulscathedral.org.uk

Visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition SE1 2UP (Tower Hill Underground) Inside the Tower Bridge Exhibition you will learn all about how the World's most famous bridge works and the history behind its creation. Enjoy the panoramic views from the walkways situated 45 metres above the Thames and visit the original Victorian engines. www.towerbridge.org.uk PR contact: 01444 241341 / aneela@aneelarosepr.co.uk

Drinks at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Pub 145 Fleet Street, The City, London, EC4A2BU (Temple Underground) Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese has a real historical feel to it, having survived through the reign of 15 monarchs. It consists of a great number of bars and dining rooms reached by a labyrinth of passages and staircases. It is decked out with a dark wooden interior.

Bar food is served as well as beers, traditional ales, wines and spirits and a restaurant.

Hampton Court Palace East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU (Hampton Court Rail from Waterloo) The flamboyant Henry VIII is most associated with this majestic palace, extended and developed in grand style after he acquired it from Cardinal Wolsey in the 1520s.

However the elegance and romance of the palace owes much to the Baroque buildings commission by William III and Mary II at the end of the 17th century. Explore Henry’s magnificent State Apartments, feel the heat of the vast Tudor Kitchens, the eerie chill of the Haunted Gallery and then stroll through the elegant Baroque Apartments and glorious formal gardens before disappearing into the Maze, where whispers of the past will haunt every step to the centre of this topiary puzzle.

Everyday at the palace the history and enchanting stories are brought to life by costumed guides. www.hrp.org.uk PR contact: 020 3166 6166 / press@hrp.org.uk

Index

White Tower at Tower of London Tower Bridge, London 11

LONDON EAST LONDON ITINERARY Here are some ideas for exploring all that East London has to offer during the Olympic and Paralympic Games and beyond, as well as helpful press contacts. Discover the regeneration, hidden gems, history and the backdrop to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games with a tour of East London. This vibrant and multicultural part of London offers a wealth of attractions, fine cuisine and places to explore. Here are our suggestions.

Visit Christ Church Spitalfields Fournier Street, E1 6QE (Liverpool Street Underground) Built in the 1700s, this landmark east London building stands as one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Britain. www.ChristChurchSpitalfields.org Tour Old Spitalfields Market 16 Horner Square, London, E1 6EW (Liverpool Street Underground) Discover great food, fashion and antiques in this Victorian market hall. www.oldspitalfieldsmarket.com Press contact: Tim Ward - 01743 344 197 / tim@parker-ward.com Lunch in a former 18th Century spice warehouse Marble Quay, St Katharines Way, E1W 1UH 9Tower Hill Underground) Dine in either of the two distinctive restaurants at the timber-framed Dickens Inn, nestled in the heart of St Katharine’s Dock, which was, for over a century, London’s trading outlet. As well as the pizzeria and the grill, the venue also houses a traditional English pub. www.Dickensinn.co.uk Tour the Museum of London Docklands 150 London Wall, EC2Y 5HN (Westferry/West India Quay DLR) Discover the 2,000 year-old history of the docks in east London at the Museum of London Docklands. Themed galleries tell of pirates, sailors and slavery. There’s even a life-sized recreation of Wapping High Street as it would have been 200 years ago during the time of Jack the Ripper. www.museumoflondon.org.uk/Docklands Press contact: 020 7814 5502 / press@museumoflondon.org.uk Museum of London Docklands Docklands, London 12

Index

LONDON EAST LONDON ITINERARY Drinks at the Town Hall Hotel in Bethnal Green 8 Patriot Square, City of London E2 9NF (Bethnal Green Underground) This 100-year-old former town hall has been given a new lease of life as a boutique property in the Design Hotels of the World collection. It has 99 rooms and a signature De Montfort Suite. Enjoy pre-dinner drinks at the bar. http://townhallhotel.com/index.php/home Press contact details: Kimberley Brown - 020 7434 7066 / kimberley@purplepr.com Visit the V&A Museum of Childhood Cambridge Heath Road, E2 9PA (Bethnal Green Underground) A five minute walk from the Town Hall Hotel lies the V&A Museum of Childhood.

Discover your inner child and explore this museum, full to the brim with childhood memorabilia. www.vam.ac.uk/moc Press contact: 020 7942 2502 / press.office@vam.ac.uk Tour the Olympic Park Meet at Bromley-by-Bow underground station Take a guided tour around the Olympic Park, home to the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. www.tourguides2012.co.uk Press contact: Victoria Herriott - 020 8892 7229 / victoria.herriott@talk21.com Lunch at Brick Lane Shoreditch, E1 6PU (Aldgate East Underground) Explore the famous Brick Lane and enjoy a wide range of ethnic food, bustling markets and fabulous shopping. www.visitbricklane.org Shopping at BOXPARK Bethnal Green Road (Shoreditch High Street Underground) Visit the first pop-up shopping mall in the world. BOXPARK is made up of shipping containers to create unique ‘box shops’. It’s known as a pop up because its basic building blocks can be transported and can literally pop up anywhere in the world.

BOXPARK includes a unique mix of international fashion, arts and lifestyle brands, galleries and cafe. www.boxpark.co.uk

Index

Cocktails at Canary Wharf E14 (Canary Wharf DLR) Watch Canary Wharf come alive as the sun sets and the lights from the skyscrapers shimmer and reflect in the glass and chrome surfaces of former Conran restaurant Plateau. Enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail in the leather bar before dining on one of two covered terraces or in the formal restaurant. www.canarywharf.com/visitus/ PR contact: Hamish McDougall - 020 7418 2326 / Hamish.McDougall@CanaryWharf.com Visit Forman’s Fish Island Stour Road, Fish Island · London, E3 2NT (Hackney Wick London Overground) Overlooking the Olympic Park and Olympic Stadium, enjoy a smoked salmon breakfast at this traditional east London smoked salmon factory. www.formansfishisland.com Press contact: Arthur Somerset: 07710 077346 Shopping at Westfield Stratford City Westfield Stratford City, Montfichet Road, Olympic Park, E20 1EJ (Stratford International) Browse the stores at Europe’s largest indoor shopping centre, Westfield Stratford City and experience this retail legacy of the London 2012 Games. http://uk.westfield.com/stratfordcity Press contact details: Mimi Richman - 020 7580 0707 / MimiR@yellow-door.com Lunch at the Wapping Food Project Wapping Hydraulic Power Station, Wapping Wall, E1W 3SG (Wapping Rail London Overground) Gastronomy meets art at the Wapping Food Project. A fine dining restaurant and art installation venue housed in a former hydraulic power station where the menu changes almost daily, and the art is unlike anything you will see in a gallery. www.thewappingproject.com

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LONDON EAST LONDON ITINERARY Visit Dennis Severs House 18 Folgate Street, Spitalfields, London, E1 6BX (Shoreditch High Street Underground) Wander around the former house of artist Dennis Severs, who created the atmosphere left behind by an imaginary 18th century family, where you will sense their presence by the things they've left behind, the smell of food about to be eaten etc. www.dennissevershouse.co.uk Press contact details: 020 7247 4013 Cocktails at Loungelover 1 Whitby Street, London E2 7DP (Shoreditch High Street Underground) Enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail at the uber trendy Lounge Lover cocktail bar (venue of choice for Madonna’s birthday party in 2006). www.loungeloverUK.com Columbia Road Flower Market Columbia Rd London E2 7RG (Hoxton Rail London Overground)

Dennis Severs House Spitalfields, London

Spend the morning browsing the flower stalls and soaking up the atmosphere of this quintessential east London flower market. The famous road is lined with independent boutiques whilst outside the street is alive with the cockney banter of the market traders. www.columbiaroad.info Press contact details: 020 7613 0876 / press@columbiaroad.info Lunch at Lotus Floating Chinese Restaurant 9 Oakland Quay, Inner Millwall Dock, London, E14 9EA (Crossharbour DLR) The Lotus Floating Chinese Restaurant is tucked away on the tranquil waters of the inner Millwall Dock but once you get there, it is not hard to spot since it’s the largest floating restaurant in the UK. www.lotusfloating.co.uk

Loungelover Shoreditch, London

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Index

LONDON EAST LONDON ITINERARY Spend the afternoon in Greenwich Visit the beautiful and historic South London area of Greenwich. Spend a day soaking up the romantic baroque architecture and rolling parks of Maritime Greenwich - which is a world heritage site. Pay a visit to the National Maritime Museum, and see the largest collection of marine art in the world, or stroll up the hill to the Royal Observatory for views across the river to London's busy financial district and beyond.

There will soon be the chance to step aboard the magnificent Cutty Sark, the only surviving extreme clipper in the world, which will reopen to the public this year following a fire through the hull of the ship in May 2007.

For those avid shoppers, the village of Greenwich is a great destination for quirky clothes and retro furniture and furnishings. Greenwich Market runs on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday selling crafts, souvenirs and food and a further market arrives at the weekends, which is great for bargains, bric-a-brac, antiques and vintage clothing. www.visitgreenwich.org.uk Watch a performance at the Barbican Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS (Barbican Underground) Visit Europe’s largest arts centre, the Barbican, complete with a concert hall, two theatres, art galleries and much more. www.barbican.org.uk Press contact details: 020 7382 7321 / press@barbican.org.uk

National Maritime Museum Greenwich, London Index

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COVENTRY, WARWICKSHIRE & SHAKESPEARE’S ENGLAND 48 HOURS IN COVENTRY Steeped in myth and legend and surrounded by breathtaking Warwickshire countryside, Coventry offers a rich choice of culture and history, with a range of museums and galleries.

Day One Morning Depart from London Euston to Coventry by train approximately 1 hour. On arrival in Coventry, check into a centrally located hotel or B&B and then stroll to the world famous Cathedral of St Michael, the site of Coventry's ‘new' cathedral. See examples of world-class works of art, including: Graham Sutherland's tapestry, John Piper's baptistry window and Epstein's bronze statue of St Michael defeating the devil. In sharp contrast, the medieval ruins of its predecessor stand next door. Destroyed in the Blitz of 14th November 1940, they are now seen as a worldwide symbol of peace and reconciliation. Climb the 180 steps to the cathedral spire to take in the panoramic views of Coventry.

Walk further into the Cathedral Quarter to find Priory Gardens where many medieval buildings have been discovered. The remains of the Benedictine Priory of St Mary, Coventry's first cathedral, including superb decorative stone and glass have been preserved. The Priory Visitor Centre and its Undercroft, winner of a string of design awards, houses some of the incredible finds from the excavations and recreates life as it was 500 years ago.

Lunch and refreshments are available locally on the cobbled street of Hay Lane.

Playwrights offer a good selection to choose from.

Holy Trinity Church Coventry 16

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COVENTRY, WARWICKSHIRE & SHAKESPEARE’S ENGLAND 48 HOURS IN COVENTRY Afternoon After lunch, return to the Cathedral Quarter and visit Holy Trinity Church. First recorded in 1113 and built for the tenants of the Priory lands to the North of Coventry.

Holy Trinity is one of the largest medieval churches in England. It has changed greatly through its 900 year history being practically burnt down in 1257 and being rebuilt, extended and redecorated over time. It now houses one of the finest surviving examples of a medieval judgment day "Doom" painting. Dating back to 1435, the painting has been carefully restored.

Remaining in the medieval quarter, finish your day at the free of charge medieval Guild of St Mary. Built in 1342, St Mary's has witnessed events both locally and nationally during its long history. Visitors can explore the Armoury, Mary Queen of Scots room and view the Great Tapestry (completed in 1499). The Great Hall dates from the late 14th and early 15th century and houses a fine tapestry dating from 1500. The Mary Queen of Scots Room is so named because of the imprisonment of the Scottish Queen here in 1569.

Day Two Morning Start the day at the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum which is located in the cultural heart of Coventry city centre. The site has eight permanent galleries displaying its collections and is also home to the History Centre, media suites, a shop, café and four temporary galleries displaying large-scale touring exhibitions from around the world.

Move onto the Coventry Transport Museum right in the heart of Coventry city centre; it displays the largest collection of British road transport in the world. There are many varied exhibitions, the ‘Spirit of Speed' being the most exciting as it gives you the opportunity to feel what it is like travelling at 1,228 km per hour!

‘Cyclopedia' showcases over a hundred of the museum's cycles dating from 1818 to the most recent high tech examples.

To complete the visit there maybe time to visit the popular cafe in the undercroft and sample some of the quality refreshments on offer.

Lunch and refreshments are available in the coffee shop, or alternatively try one of the many fabulous restaurants at the nearby Priory Place development.

Evening

Afternoon

In the evening why not treat yourself to a night at the Belgrade Theatre. Choose from a wide selection of traditional classics and sensational shows in the B2 Theatre. Wine and dine in style at several of Coventry’s trendy bars and clubs at the SkyDome Arena complex, or why not try one of the refreshing lagers from the old medieval pubs along Medieval Spon Street. Whilst you’re there why not experience a true authentic taste of the continent with Turmeric Gold, Coventry’s award winning premier Indian restaurant.

Take the opportunity to visit the Almshouses of Ford's and Bond's hospitals. The 16th Century Old Bablake School, one of Coventry's oldest school buildings forms a delightful courtyard with the Almshouse - Bonds Hospital. Ford's Hospital was built in 1509 for the shelter of elderly Coventry women and it is still performing that task almost 500 years later.

After such an eventful day, get a good night’s sleep at a wide range of quality B&B’s and hotels, each offering that high standard you would come to expect.

Take a walk to the edge of the city where you will find Lady Herbert's Garden situated beside the town's ancient gates and adjacent to the Garden of International Friendship. The gardens complement and offer a stark contrast to each other providing a tranquil setting to watch the world go by. You can also find Coventry’s modern and stylish Millennium Place adjacent to the garden, with a live screen providing local news, updates and stories for the people of Coventry, as well as the Millennium bridge providing a great vantage point for pictures.

From there, return to Coventry train station for your departure journey to London or your final overnight stay at one of Coventry’s leading hotels.

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COVENTRY, WARWICKSHIRE & SHAKESPEARE’S ENGLAND COVENTRY PEACE TRAIL 1-DAY ITINERARY In 1944 the people of Coventry and Stalingrad declared a formal friendship link between their two war-devastated cities and twinning in the modern world was born. The Coventry Peace Trail visits all of the sites associated with peace in Coventry city centre.

Day One Morning Depart from London Euston to Coventry by train approximately one hour. On arrival in Coventry stroll to the world famous Cathedral Ruins located in the heart of the city. St Michael's Cathedral was destroyed from the air on 14 November 1940, the only cathedral church in Britain to be lost in this way. The ruins stand as a place of pilgrimage.

At the altar of the ruined church stands a charred cross, a replica of two beams found lying in the rubble the morning after the destruction. View the Reconciliation Sculpture, a work by Josefina de Vasconcellos, representing the reunion of those divided by war that was given to Coventry Cathedral by Sir Richard Branson in 1995 to mark the 50th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. The ruins also contain the Home Front Memorial, the Statue of Christ (carved by a schoolboy who was later killed while serving in the RAF in 1943) and the Commemorative Plaque that marks the 50th anniversary of the Coventry Blitz.

Walk into the adjacent New Cathedral to view The Cross of Nails (originally formed from three medieval roof nails found in the ruined cathedral), The Stalingrad Madonna, a sketch drawn by a German doctor while serving on the Eastern Front and The Font which is a boulder from a hillside in Bethlehem.

Walk to the Peace Garden in Bayley Lane which has a central plinth engraved with the names of Coventry's 26 twin towns and cities around the world. Visit The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum which holds a collection of Graham Sutherland's drawings from his cathedral tapestry and a Peace and Reconciliation gallery, reflecting Coventry's experience of war and the city's post-war commitment to reconciliation.

Lunch and refreshments are available locally in a selection of café and restaurants such as the Herbert Café, Browns Café Bar, Godiva's Café or Benedicts.

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COVENTRY, WARWICKSHIRE & SHAKESPEARE’S ENGLAND COVENTRY PEACE TRAIL 1-DAY ITINERARY Afternoon After lunch walk to Broadgate to view Coventry's striking statue of the legendary Godiva, whose self-sacrifice and concern for others mirrors the city's much more recent profile. The Phoenix Statue is located in Hertford Street and it depicts the Phoenix that symbolizes the city arising from the flames and destruction of the old.

Across the city centre you will find The Belgrade Theatre - Coventry's main theatre. It is named in honour of the capital of Serbia, which was twinned with Coventry in 1957 and this town provided a gift of wood for the interior of the new theatre.

Adjacent to the Coventry Transport Museum lies Lady Herbert's Garden, originally created in the 1930s. Three holly, maple and hazel trees have been planted to symbolize Coventry's famous three spires and the city's post-war dedication to peace and reconciliation.

The final place to visit on this Peace Trail is the Garden of International Friendship which dates from 2000. The theme of international friendship is picked out in the lettering on the walls and the viewing platform of this garden.

Take a leisurely stroll through the city to Coventry train station for your return journey to London.

Lady Herbert’s Garden Coventry Index

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COVENTRY, WARWICKSHIRE & SHAKESPEARE’S ENGLAND 24 HOUR 2-TONE, SPECIALS AND COVENTRY MUSIC EXPERIENCE Multicultural 2-Tone music was born in Coventry and gave us The Specials, The Selecter and created bands The Beat and Madness.

This musical experience shows that there is much more to Coventry music than just 2-Tone.

Day One Morning Depart from London Euston to Coventry by train approximately 1 hour 10 minutes. On arrival in Coventry take the number 27 bendy-bus to the Ball Hill bus stop. Cross the road to The 2-Tone Village. It’s here you can have a late breakfast or just refreshments at The 2-Tone Corner Café. Once refreshed you can check out Coventry’s Music Wall of Fame, plaques of famous Coventry musicians line the walls here in Specials Street and Selecter Street.

Then it’s into the free 2-Tone Museum to learn about Coventry’s most famous musical export. The gold discs, stage costumes, posters, instruments, hand written lyrics and so much more all on show. Highlights include the mock ups of a Specials fans bedroom and Horizon Studio Control room. Check out the temporary exhibition “International Jet SetFrom Ghost Town To Host Town” that looks at the global 2-Tone phenomenon. Then it’s over to Godiva Rocks, the fascinating history of Coventry music, including The John & Yoko Corner, featuring the Lennon Bench and make a wish at the Peace Tree, timelines of artists like Frank Ifield, Pete Waterman, Hazel O’Connor, Panjabi MC, King, Vince Hill and The Enemy. Below the museum is the 2-Tone Corner shop, well worth a browse for some one-of-a-kind gifts. Then we can recommend a delicious dinner at Simmer Down, the village’s own Anglo-Caribbean Restaurant. Maybe if there’s time, why not explore Ball Hill one of Coventry’s biggest shopping areas outside of the city centre

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COVENTRY, WARWICKSHIRE & SHAKESPEARE’S ENGLAND 24 HOUR 2-TONE, SPECIALS AND COVENTRY MUSIC EXPERIENCE Afternoon After lunch, leave the village, back into the city centre, and head for The Cathedral Ruins.

It’s here you can join The Coventry Rocks Music Tour, allow 2 hours for this fascinating walking tour around Coventry’s most iconic musical sites. Hear about John & Yoko’s peace visit to the city, see where 2-Tone was born and learn all about Chuck Berry’s only number one record. At the Coventry Theatre site we stop for refreshments and learn all about the day the Beatles came to town, before finding out about where The Enemy got their album title from and visiting Coventry’s own Walk of Stars Featuring Coventry’s famous from all walks of life. On this tour we also visit many of The 2-Tone Trail plaques.

Evening Back at the 2-Tone Village, evening acoustic and various events will be underway on most nights, relax at Simmer Down or the cafe to chill before its back to the City Centre and your train back to London.

View of Coventry Cathedral Coventry Index

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MANCHESTER 2-DAY ITINERARY The birthplace of the industrial revolution, Manchester is now one of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities in the UK, yet it retains its own unique character. Set in a region that offers great value for money, Manchester welcomes visitors with its fine traditions of culture, music, sport and top class events. Its vitality is expressed through its fascinating history, interactive attractions, magnificent architecture and most of all, the spirit of its people. www.visitmanchester.com Twitter: @visit_mcr

Day One Morning Depart from London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly by train in just over 2 hours.

Afternoon Manchester United Museum & Tour Sir Matt Busby Way, Old Trafford, Manchester, M16 0RA T: +44 (0)161 868 8000 W: www.manutd.com The story of Manchester United is unlike any other club in the world. Beginning more than a century ago, it combines eras of total English and European domination with some of the greatest adversity faced by any football club. Only at the Manchester United Museum & Tour can you experience the story in all its glory, and immerse yourself in a legend still being made.

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Old Trafford Salford, Manchester

Evening

Following your trip to The Lowry, take the short walk (approximately 2 minutes) across the Lowry Bridge to The Imperial War Museum North.

The Lowry Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ T: +44 (0)870 787 5780 W: www.thelowry.com

Imperial War Museum North Trafford Wharf Road, The Quays, Manchester, M17 1TZ T: +44 161 836 4000 W: www.iwm.org.uk/north

The Lowry boasts an award-winning program in its two main theatres and studio space, where you can find the best in drama, ballet, opera, comedy, music and family shows.

Galleries showcase the work of LS Lowry alongside that of artists of local, national and international renown.

One of the most celebrated Museums in Britain today, Imperial War Museum North is about people and their stories, about how lives have been and still are shaped by war and conflict. The award-winning building by international architect Daniel Libeskind is a symbol of the world torn apart by conflict.

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MANCHESTER 2-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Day Three

Morning

Morning

Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) Liverpool Road, Castlefield, Manchester, M3 4FP T: +44 (0)161 832 2244 W: www.mosi.org.uk

Manchester City Football Club Sportcity, Manchester, M11 3FF T: +44 (0)870 062 1894 W: www.mcfc.co.uk

Based on the site of the oldest passenger railway station in the world, MOSI truly is a museum for everyone. Kids, big and small will be fascinated by the hands-on exhibitions, while the huge collection of vintage vehicles and historic working machinery is enthralling. Witnessing halls full of vast, steam-powered machines in action is an unforgettable experience.

This stunning stadium was built for Manchester's Commonwealth Games in 2002 and is now home to one of the most passionate clubs in the Premier League, Manchester City.

An integral part of any trip to Manchester, the City of Manchester Stadium allows you to soak up the atmosphere and learn more about the 130 year history of the blues with your behind-the-scenes tour. Your guide will give you an insight into the day-to-day activities, allowing you to glimpse what really goes on. Walk in the footsteps of your favourite players or admire the grandeur of the building from one of the executive lounges.

Afternoon John Rylands Library 150 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 3EH T: +44 161 306 0555 W: www.library.manchester.ac.uk/deansgate Built in the 1890s, the John Rylands Library is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world; both the building and its collections are of outstanding international significance.

Evening People's History Museum Left Bank, Spinningfields, Manchester, M3 3ER T: +44 (0)161 838 9190 W: www.phm.org.uk The People's History Museum is truly unique. A national museum charting the history of the struggle for equality and democracy in the UK, it's perfectly suited to the radical city of Manchester. Discover the British working class' fight for social justice as you explore the museum's collection, expertly presented and housed within its new home - a beautiful ÂŁ12.3m redevelopment beside the River Irwell. In addition to the galleries and regularly changing exhibitions, the museum houses an education service, Labour History Archive & Study Centre, Textile Conservation Studio, corporate facilities, a cafĂŠ and a shop.

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Afternoon East Lancashire Railway Bolton Street Station, Bolton Street, Bury, BL9 0EY T: +44 (0)161 764 7790 W: www.east-lancs-rly.co.uk The beautifully restored steam railway takes you on a captivating journey to discover the region's rich transport heritage, taking in viaducts, historic towns and picturesque villages and passing through tunnels en route along the Irwell Valley, along the edge of the West Pennine Moors.

Evening Trafford Centre Manchester, M17 8AA T: +44 (0)161 749 1717 W: www.traffordcentre.co.uk Situated just 8km outside Manchester city centre visitors have the choice of 230 stores along 5km of granite and marble boulevards. Stores range from designer and high fashion outlets along Regent Crescent including the first Selfridges outside London to favourite high street names. The Centre's leisure and dining area - The Orient hosts 36 restaurants and fast food eateries. It is also home to the Odeon 20 screen cinema - one of the largest in the UK.

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MANCHESTER 2-DAY LUXURY ITINERARY The birthplace of the industrial revolution, Manchester is now one of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities in the UK, yet it retains its own unique character. Set in a region that offers great value for money, Manchester welcomes visitors with its fine traditions of culture, music, sport and top class events. Its vitality is expressed through its fascinating history, interactive attractions, magnificent architecture and most of all, the spirit of its people. www.visitmanchester.com Twitter: @visit_mcr

Luxury traditional: Radisson Edwardian "Free Trade Hall" Peter Street, Manchester, GB M2 5GP T: +44 (0) 161 835 9929 W: www.radissonedwardian.com

Day One

Luxury modern: The Lowry Hotel 50 Dearmans Place, Chapel Wharf, Manchester M3 5LH T: +44 (0)161 827 4000 W: www.thelowryhotel.com

Morning Arrive in to Manchester Piccadilly by train.

If you choose to take the train direct from London Euston your alighting point will be Manchester Piccadilly in the heart of the city centre.

OR Arrive in to Manchester airport.

Upon arrival please take a taxi to your accommodation.

Accommodation suggestions: Luxury boutique: Velvet 2 Canal Street, M1 3HE T: +44 (0) 161 236 9003 W: www.velvetmanchester.com A sumptuous Bar, Restaurant & Hotel in the heart of Manchester city centre on bustling Canal Street, a stones throw from Piccadilly train station, amidst lively & vibrant bars & close to the main shopping area. The Bespoke 19 bedroom Hotel, occupies the four floors above the Bar & Restaurant, offering individually designed Velvet King rooms, 3 Balcony King Rooms overlooking Canal Street, and 3 luxurious Duplex Suites.

Located in one of Manchester’s most celebrated building, the historic Free Trade Hall, stylish spaces create a mood of understated luxury in the city centre, moments from Manchester Central and MICC. Sienna Spa, deep in the building’s vaults, is a blissful urban hideaway, and dramatic red lanterns lend a decadent air to Opus One bar and restaurant. Through the hotel’s soaring lobby, Alto is a relaxed alternative for dressdown dining.

Part of the Rocco Forte collection, Manchester's most fashionable hotel, the awardwinning Lowry Hotel is ideally situated on the banks of the River Irwell in the recently-developed Chapel Wharf area on the Salford-Manchester boundary. The first five-star hotel in Greater Manchester, The Lowry Hotel makes a bold contemporary architectural statement with its dramatic, curved, glass-fronted façade that creates a light and airy feel within the hotel interior.

Luxury business: Hilton Manchester Deansgate 303 Deansgate Manchester M3 4LQ T: 0161 870 1600 W: www.hilton.co.uk/manchesterdeansgate Situated within the lower 23 floors of the stunning 47-storey Beetham Tower, the Hilton Manchester Deansgate hotel offers spectacular views across the city. Plunge into the heated indoor swimming pool, work out in the gym or indulge in a Spa treatment at the Hilton Manchester Deansgate hotel. Savour modern contemporary cuisine in the hotel’s chic Podium restaurant or take the express lift to Cloud 23 for tea or a cocktail in the sky.

Late AM - Undertake a two-hour Discover Manchester Tour of the city centre, which highlights key city centre locations, landmarks and attractions.

Public tours generally depart from Manchester Visitor Information Centre which is located in on Portland Street, Piccadilly Gardens (fee applies). However private tours can be booked with guide able to meet you at your hotel.

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MANCHESTER 2-DAY LUXURY ITINERARY Nb. Specialist tours covering all sorts of subjects – from Music Pub Walks to those focusing on The Gangs of Manchester or even Show Me Germanchester - are also available. See www.visitmanchester.com/walks or brochure included in this press pack for full details. Guided walks are available in foreign languages (see list of language proficiency document in press pack).

Lunch Try one of the following: Afternoon Tea at The Octagon The Midland Hotel, Peter Street, Manchester, M60 2DS T: +44 (0) 161 236 3333 W: www.qhotels.co.uk/hotels/the-midland-manchester.aspx The Octagon Lounge, with its magnificent Moorish ambience, is a truly splendid place to take afternoon tea, sampling a mouth-watering menu amid real glamour. Afternoon tea is served from 2.30pm till 5.00pm.

River Bar and Restaurant The Lowry Hotel, Chapel Wharf T: +44 (0) 161 827 4000 W: www.thelowryhotel.com/dining/afternoon-tea/ Afternoon Tea in The River Bar and Restaurant provides the perfect experience, whether you need respite from a busy day shopping, celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself. Afternoon Tea is served between 2.15pm and 4.00pm throughout the week; 12:00 noon and 4.00pm on Saturday and between 3.15pm and 5.00pm on Sunday in the contemporary yet classic River Bar and Restaurant.

Second Floor Manchester at Harvey Nichols 21 Cathedral Street, Manchester W: www.harveynichols.com/second-floor-manchester The Second Floor at Harvey Nichols Manchester is one of the city's ultimate dining destinations. Choose from a Modern European menu or just spend some time socialising and sipping cocktails at the bar - there's no more glamorous place to while away the hours.

The Lowry Hotel Manchester Index

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MANCHESTER 2-DAY LUXURY ITINERARY Afternoon Explore Manchester’s city centre shopping or cultural offering: Shopping suggestions: In the Northern Quarter you will find vinyl record shops, vintage boutiques, art galleries and craft stores.

In the Arndale Centre and along Market Street, you’ll find a concentration of familiar high street stores. The Arndale Centre offers over 200 shops, catering for most shopping needs.

Exchange Square and New Cathedral Street are the result of over a decade of regeneration work throughout the city centre. Marks & Spencer sits stylishly amidst the newly refurbished Selfridge, where you can find Jimmy Choo, Alexander McQueen, Kurt Geiger, Rock & Republic and across the street the super chic Harvey Nichols including designers such as Prada and Stella McCartney.

Culture, art and heritage suggestions: National Football Museum Urbis Building, Cathedral Gardens, M4 3BG – Opening summer 2012 T: +44 (0) 161 605 8200 W: www.nationalfootballmuseum.com The best football museum in the world is becoming even bigger and better. Exciting moments, unforgettable memories, legendary players, 'hands-on' fun for all the family and enough objects to fill a football pitch! From the 1966 World Cup Final ball to Maradona's "Hand of God" shirt, there'll be so much to see and do.

MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry) Liverpool Road, Castlefield, Manchester, M3 4FP T: +44 161 832 2244 W: www.mosi.org.uk Situated in one of the oldest surviving passenger railway buildings in the world, this family friendly museum tells the story of the history, science and industry of Manchester - the world's first industrial city.

Just a stone’s throw away from Exchange Square is the beautifully stylish Triangle, one of Manchester’s premier shopping centres, situated in the old Corn Exchange building.

The John Rylands Library 150 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 3EH T: +44 161 306 0555 W: www.library.manchester.ac.uk/deansgate/

At St Ann’s Square you’ve got three shopping arcades; the small St Ann’s Passage, the jewel-like Victorian Barton Arcade, and the Royal Exchange Arcade. Nearby King Street is another designer destination.

Built in the 1890s, the John Rylands Library is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world; both the building and its collections are of outstanding international significance.

In Spinningfields you’ll find The Avenue, the city’s newest new luxury shopping quarter which features a number of high-end designer shops including Armani, Mulberry, LK Bennett and Flannels.

People's History Museum Left Bank, Spinningfields, Manchester, M3 3ER T: +44 161 838 9190 W: www.phm.org.uk

Finally, a short taxi or bus journey out of town is The Trafford Centre with over 230 stores along three miles of granite and marble boulevards.

The People's History Museum is truly unique. A national museum charting the history of the struggle for equality and democracy in the UK, it's perfectly suited to the radical city of Manchester. Discover the British working class' fight for social justice as you explore the museum's collection, expertly presented and housed within its new home a beautiful £12.3m redevelopment beside the River Irwell.

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MANCHESTER 2-DAY LUXURY ITINERARY Manchester Museum The University Of Manchester, Oxford Road, M13 9PL T: +44 (0) 161 275 2634 W: www.museum.manchester.ac.uk Groups can discover the natural world with 15 galleries full of fascinating displays. In addition to its permanent collections, which include a fossilised Tyrannosaurus Rex, the museum has a great selection of year-round programmes of activities for all ages and changing exhibitions with their brand new Ancient World Gallery opening in late 2012.

Whitworth Art Gallery Oxford Road, Manchester, M15 6ER T: +44 (0) 161 275 7450 W: www.whitworth.manchester.ac.uk Set in the University of Manchester campus, just outside the city centre, the Whitworth Art Gallery is home to some of the UK's finest collections of art and design. A visit here guarantees variety, from the modern and contemporary to historic fine art. Groups can also explore unique collections of textiles and rare assortments of wallpapers.

Evening Evening meal suggestions: Australasia 1 The Avenue, Spinningfields, Manchester, M3 3AP T: +44 (0)161 831 0288 W: www.australasia.uk.com A menu of Pacific Rim flavours underpinned by European cooking tradition, an exotic blend of Indonesian and Southeast Asian influences. Australasia is easily one of Manchester’s most popular dining spots.

63 degrees 20 Church Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester, M4 1PN T: 0161 832 5438 W: www.63degrees.co.uk Coffee lovers will know that 63 degrees is the perfect temperature at which to serve it, but Eric Moreau, chef at 63 degrees will show you that it’s also the temperature of a unique cooking technique that he’s perfected after many years of experimentation.

MOSI Manchester Index

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MANCHESTER 2-DAY LUXURY ITINERARY Aubaine at Selfridges Manchester Exchange Square, Manchester T: +44 (0)800 123 400 W: www.aubaine.co.uk Located on Level 2 and featuring floor to ceiling glass windows, Aubaine’s Le Restaurant at Selfridges overlooks the famous Exchange Square. There is an enticing menu, including Lobster Linguine to Lemon Sole and a collection of indulgent cocktails.

The French The Midland Hotel, Peter Street, Manchester, M60 2DS T: +44 (0) 161 236 3333 W: www.qhotels.co.uk/hotels/the-midland-manchester.aspx A simply stunning fine dining experience awaits you at The French. Renowned Head Chef Paul Beckley presents fine French cuisine with a British twist. Posh and Becks ate here on their first date and many a President and member of Royalty has graced this restaurant.

After dinner you can choose to explore Manchester’s nightlife or head back to your hotel.

Manchester’s nightlife is lively and famously varied, with heaps of bars and pubs to suit all sorts of people. Here’s a quick guide to the main areas: Northern Quarter: A good time can always be had in bars such as Cord, Black Dog Ballroom, Trof, Walrus, Common, or Bluu Bar. Alternatively, head to Oldham Road for more traditional pubs such as The Castle, The City or Gulliver’s.

Deansgate and Castlefield: Deansgate Lock and Castlefield feature many familiar bar names such as Revolution and Baa Baa, as well as the Comedy Store comedy club and some charming canal side spots such as Duke’s 92. Cocktail lovers should try Cloud 23 bar situated on the 23rd floor of the Hitlon Deansgate (within the Beetham Tower).

Canal Street: the infamous street made famous by Queer as Folk; popular hotspots include Queer, Velvet or Via, whilst new openings on Richmond Street (behind Canal Street) The Mollyhouse and the Richmond Tea Rooms are making a notable mark or the scene.

Oxford Road: there are an array of bars and pubs in the student part of town including The Thirsty Scholar, The Deaf Institute, Zoo, and Sandbar. A quiet drink can be had in the Cornerhouse or one of the nearby theatre bars.

Spinningfields: as a new development there are bars popping up in the area all the time. The Alchemist does amazing cocktails whilst The Oast House offers a new take on the olde style pub. Nearby are also some beautiful Victorian pubs including Mr Thomas’ Chop House.

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Imperial War Museum North Manchester Index

MANCHESTER 2-DAY LUXURY ITINERARY

Day Two Morning Early AM - Check out and store your luggage if necessary.

Take the Metrolink tram to Salford Quays from Manchester Piccadilly Train Station (board the tram to Eccles or MediaCityUK and alight at the MediaCityUK stop).

Lunch Try one of the cafes at either the Imperial War Museum North or the Lowry.

After lunch take a ten minute walk to MUFC Old Trafford for a museum and stadium tour (pre-booking required).

Manchester United Museum & Tour Sir Matt Busby Way, Old Trafford, Manchester, M16 0RA T: +44 (0)161 868 8000 W: www.manutd.com

Spend the morning exploring Salford Quays, including: Imperial War Museum North Trafford Wharf Road, The Quays, Manchester, M17 1TZ T: +44 161 836 4000 W: www.iwm.org.uk/north One of the most celebrated Museums in Britain today, Imperial War Museum North is about people and their stories, about how lives have been and still are shaped by war and conflict. The award-winning building by international architect Daniel Libeskind is a symbol of the world torn apart by conflict.

The Lowry Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ, T: +44 (0)870 787 5780 W: www.thelowry.com The Lowry boasts an award-winning program in its two main theatres and studio space, where you can find the best in drama, ballet, opera, comedy, music and family shows. Galleries showcase the work of LS Lowry alongside that of artists of local, national and international renown.

The story of Manchester United is unlike any other club in the world. Beginning more than a century ago, it combines eras of total English and European domination with some of the greatest adversity faced by any football club. Only at the Manchester United Museum & Tour can you experience the story in all its glory, and immerse yourself in a legend still being made.

Alternatively take a taxi to the Trafford Centre for shopping or one of the following adventure experiences: Chill Factore 7 Trafford Way, Trafford Quays Leisure Village, Manchester, M41 7JA T: +44 (0) 161 749 2222 W: www.chillfactore.com Groups of all ages and abilities can ski, board, tube, luge, sledge, airboard or climb at Chill Factore. Skiing lessons, snowboarding sessions, speedy 60m luges and climbing walls are available for adventurous groups to enjoy. Located in Trafford Quays Leisure Village, just off the M60, you also find bars and restaurants in their Alpine Village.

Airkix Indoor Skydiving 9 Trafford Way, Trafford Park, Manchester M41 7JA T: +44 (0) 845 331 6549 W: www.airkix.com Experience the magic of flight with a trip to Airkix indoor skydiving. Feel the sensation of human flight as you’re suspended on a high column of air in an exciting and safe environment. It’s skydiving! Indoors!

When finished, please make your way back to the city to catch the train back to London or to the airport, stopping at your hotel if necessary to pick up your luggage.

Late PM - Depart.

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MANCHESTER 2-DAY BUDGET ITINERARY The birthplace of the industrial revolution, Manchester is now one of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities in the UK, yet it retains its own unique character. Set in a region that offers great value for money, Manchester welcomes visitors with its fine traditions of culture, music, sport and top class events. Its vitality is expressed through its fascinating history, interactive attractions, magnificent architecture and most of all, the spirit of its people. www.visitmanchester.com Twitter: @visit_mcr

Day One Morning Arrive in to Manchester Piccadilly by train.

If you choose to take the train direct from London Euston your alighting point will be Manchester Piccadilly in the heart of the city centre. Alternatively, if you choose to fly into Manchester Airport, one of the cheapest and easiest ways of travelling into the city is to take the train (approx 15 mins).

Upon arrival please make your way to your accommodation.

Accommodation suggestions: Budget hostel: Manchester YHA Potato Wharf, Castlefield, Manchester, M3 4NB T: +44 (0) 845 371 9648 w: www.yha.org.uk Purpose-built in 1995, YHA Manchester enjoys a canal-side location close to the heart of the rejuvenated city centre. Ideally situated for a city break, it’s within easy reach of some of the best shopping, restaurants, cinemas, concert halls, museums and theatres in northern England.

Budget apartment style: Roomzzz Manchester 36 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 4JY T: +44 (0) 844 704 4048 W: www.roomzzz.co.uk/manchester-city 48 individual apartments fully fitted for the practicalities of daily life, finished with a subtle suggestion of the Orient inspired by the bustle of nearby Chinatown. As you'd expect from a luxury hotel, there's every concession to contemporary style and comfort.

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Simple Bar & Restaurant Manchester Index

MANCHESTER 2-DAY BUDGET ITINERARY Budget business: Holiday Inn Express Oxford Road Oxford Road, Manchester, M1 5QA T: +44 (0)843 208 3005 W: www.hiexpress.com The gleaming Holiday Inn Express Manchester City Centre-Oxford Road is a convenient choice whether you're doing business at one of the major convention centres or simply looking for world-class sport, shopping and entertainment. Rates for a standard double start from £59 per room per night inclusive of complimentary breakfast. (Please note accommodation on this trip is complimentary) Late AM - Undertake a two-hour Discover Manchester Tour of the city centre, which highlights key city centre locations, landmarks and attractions.

Public tours generally depart from Manchester Visitor Information Centre which is located in on Portland Street, Piccadilly Gardens (fee applies). However private tours can be booked with guide able to meet you at your hotel.

Nb. Specialist tours covering all sorts of subjects – from Music Pub Walks to those focusing on The Gangs of Manchester or even Show Me Germanchester - are also available. See www.visitmanchester.com/walks or brochure included in this press pack for full details. Guided walks are available in foreign languages (see list of language proficiency document in press pack).

Lunch Try one of the following: Blackdog Ballroom Corner Tib Street/ Church Street, M4 1PW T: +44 (0) 161 839 0664 W: www.blackdogballroom.co.uk A slice of NYC’s secret downtown speakeasy style has arrived in Manchester’s Northern Quarter in the form of the Black Dog Ballroom. Offering gourmet burgers and pizzas, draught beers, cocktails, pool tables and a secret room, the stylish bar is open daily from Midday to 4am with food available ‘til 1am.

Simple Bar and Restaurant G20-21 Smithfield Buildings, Tib Street, Manchester, M4 1LA T: +44 (0) 161 832 8764 W: www.simplebar.co.uk Simple, now in its ninth year, offers a laid back atmosphere for eating, drinking and meeting friends. From home made Northern Quarter Pounders, huge racks of sticky BBQ ribs, mountains of mash and mouth-watering home made cheesecake, there’s something for every stomach.

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North Star Deli Piccadilly 77 Dale Street, Manchester W: www.northstardeli.com A real food destination for gourmets the team at North Star Deli make all their lovely treats in their Chorlton branch bringing core items to residents and office workers in Manchester city centre.

Afternoon Early PM - Explore Manchester’s city centre shopping or cultural offering: Shopping suggestions: In the Northern Quarter you will find vinyl record shops, vintage boutiques, art galleries and craft stores.

In the Arndale Centre and along Market Street, you’ll find a concentration of familiar high street stores. The Arndale Centre offers over 200 shops, catering for most shopping needs.

Exchange Square and New Cathedral Street are the result of over a decade of regeneration work throughout the city centre. Marks & Spencer sits stylishly amidst the newly refurbished Selfridge, where you can find Jimmy Choo, Alexander McQueen, Kurt Geiger, Rock & Republic and across the street the super chic Harvey Nichols including designers such as Prada and Stella McCartney.

Just a stone’s throw away from Exchange Square is the beautifully stylish Triangle, one of Manchester’s premier shopping centres, situated in the old Corn Exchange building.

At St Ann’s Square you’ve got three shopping arcades; the small St Ann’s Passage, the jewel-like Victorian Barton Arcade, and the Royal Exchange Arcade. Nearby King Street is another designer destination.

In Spinningfields you’ll find The Avenue, the city’s newest new luxury shopping quarter which features a number of high-end designer shops including Armani, Mulberry, LK Bennett and Flannels.

Finally, a short taxi or bus journey out of town is The Trafford Centre with over 230 stores along three miles of granite and marble boulevards.

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MANCHESTER 2-DAY BUDGET ITINERARY Culture, art and heritage suggestions: National Football Museum Urbis Building, Cathedral Gardens, M4 3BG – Opening summer 2012 T: +44 (0) 161 605 8200 W: www.nationalfootballmuseum.com The best football museum in the world is becoming even bigger and better. Exciting moments, unforgettable memories, legendary players, 'hands-on' fun for all the family and enough objects to fill a football pitch! From the 1966 World Cup Final ball to Maradona's "Hand of God" shirt, there'll be so much to see and do.

MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry) Liverpool Road, Castlefield, Manchester, M3 4FP T: +44 161 832 2244 W: www.mosi.org.uk Situated in one of the oldest surviving passenger railway buildings in the world, this family friendly museum tells the story of the history, science and industry of Manchester - the world's first industrial city.

The John Rylands Library 150 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 3EH T: +44 161 306 0555 W: www.library.manchester.ac.uk/deansgate/ Built in the 1890s, the John Rylands Library is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world; both the building and its collections are of outstanding international significance.

People's History Museum Left Bank, Spinningfields, Manchester, M3 3ER T: +44 161 838 9190 W: www.phm.org.uk The People's History Museum is truly unique. A national museum charting the history of the struggle for equality and democracy in the UK, it's perfectly suited to the radical city of Manchester. Discover the British working class' fight for social justice as you explore the museum's collection, expertly presented and housed within its new home - a beautiful ÂŁ12.3m redevelopment beside the River Irwell.

The John Rylands Library Manchester 32

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MANCHESTER 2-DAY BUDGET ITINERARY Manchester Museum The University Of Manchester, Oxford Road, M13 9PL T: +44 (0) 161 275 2634 W: www.museum.manchester.ac.uk

Zaika 2 Watson Street, Great Northern Tower, Manchester. M3 4EE T: +44 (0)161 839 5111 W: www.zaikarestaurants.co.uk

Groups can discover the natural world with 15 galleries full of fascinating displays. In addition to its permanent collections, which include a fossilised Tyrannosaurus Rex, the museum has a great selection of year-round programmes of activities for all ages and changing exhibitions with their brand new Ancient World Gallery opening in late 2012.

The name Zaika translates quite literally as "Sense of Taste" and this is the ethos behind the innovative menu with an emphasis on refined yet creative Indian cuisine.

The modern Indian food at Zaika is always imaginatively presented & delicately spiced. The menu incorporates both traditional classic flavours and original dishes that apply eastern flavours with a western twist.

Whitworth Art Gallery Oxford Road, Manchester, M15 6ER T: +44 (0) 161 275 7450 W: www.whitworth.manchester.ac.uk Set in the University of Manchester campus, just outside the city centre, the Whitworth Art Gallery is home to some of the UK's finest collections of art and design. A visit here guarantees variety, from the modern and contemporary to historic fine art. Groups can also explore unique collections of textiles and rare assortments of wallpapers.

Evening Evening meal suggestions: Tampopo 16 Albert Square, Manchester T: +44 (0) 161 819 1666 W: www.tampopo.co.uk The name 'Tampopo' (actually a girl's name in Japanese meaning 'dandelion') is taken from the title of a Japanese film, a cult classic chronicling the quest for the perfect bowl of noodles by the eponymous heroine - a quest that the team at Tampopo aim for every day. The menu is composed from the best street food and signature dishes from across East Asia.

Cornerhouse 70 Oxford Street, M1 5NH T: +44 (0) 161 200 1500 W: www.cornerhouse.org Located at Manchester’s centre for contemporary visual arts and independent film, the Bar and Café are perfect for drinks with friends or to have a quick bite to eat before catching a film or checking out the exhibitions.

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Pizza Express Various locations W: www.pizzaexpress.com The popular Pizza chain has a number of outlets in the city at South King St, Peter St, Exchange Square, Piccadilly Gardens, and Oxford Street.

After dinner you can choose to explore Manchester’s nightlife or head back to your hotel.

Manchester’s nightlife is lively and famously varied, with heaps of bars and pubs to suit all sorts of people. Here’s a quick guide to the main areas: Northern Quarter: A good time can always be had in bars such as Cord, Black Dog Ballroom, Trof, Walrus, Common, or Bluu Bar. Alternatively, head to Oldham Road for more traditional pubs such as The Castle, The City or Gulliver’s.

Deansgate and Castlefield: Deansgate Lock and Castlefield feature many familiar bar names such as Revolution and Baa Baa, as well as the Comedy Store comedy club and some charming canal side spots such as Duke’s 92. Cocktail lovers should try Cloud 23 bar situated on the 23rd floor of the Hitlon Deansgate (within the Beetham Tower).

Canal Street: the infamous street made famous by Queer as Folk; popular hotspots include Queer, Velvet or Via, whilst new openings on Richmond Street (behind Canal Street) The Mollyhouse and the Richmond Tea Rooms are making a notable mark or the scene.

Oxford Road: there are an array of bars and pubs in the student part of town including The Thirsty Scholar, The Deaf Institute, Zoo, and Sandbar. A quiet drink can be had in the Cornerhouse or one of the nearby theatre bars.

Spinningfields: as a new development there are bars popping up in the area all the time. The Alchemist does amazing cocktails whilst The Oast House offers a new take on the olde style pub. Nearby are also some beautiful Victorian pubs including Mr Thomas’ Chop House.

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MANCHESTER 2-DAY BUDGET ITINERARY

Day Two Morning Early AM - Check out and store your luggage if necessary.

Take the Metrolink tram to Salford Quays from Manchester Piccadilly Train Station (board the tram to Eccles or MediaCityUK and alight at the MediaCityUK stop).

Spend the morning exploring Salford Quays, including: Imperial War Museum North Trafford Wharf Road, The Quays, Manchester, M17 1TZ T: +44 161 836 4000 W: www.iwm.org.uk/north One of the most celebrated Museums in Britain today, Imperial War Museum North is about people and their stories, about how lives have been and still are shaped by war and conflict. The award-winning building by international architect Daniel Libeskind is a symbol of the world torn apart by conflict.

The Lowry Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ T: +44 (0)870 787 5780 W: www.thelowry.com The Lowry boasts an award-winning program in its two main theatres and studio space, where you can find the best in drama, ballet, opera, comedy, music and family shows. Galleries showcase the work of LS Lowry alongside that of artists of local, national and international renown.

The Lowry Outlet Mall The Quays, Salford Quays, Salford M50 3AH T: +44 (0) 161 848 1850 W: www.lowryoutletmall.com The only factory outlet shopping in Manchester with more than 200 brands at over 80 stores, a choice of cafĂŠs and restaurants, free shopper parking and a stunning Quayside location, the Lowry Outlet Mall is a factory outlet unlike any other.

Lunch Try one of the cafes at either the Imperial War Museum North or the Lowry.

The Lowry Centre Manchester 34

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MANCHESTER 2-DAY BUDGET ITINERARY After lunch take a ten minute walk to MUFC Old Trafford for a museum and stadium tour (pre-booking required).

Manchester United Museum & Tour Sir Matt Busby Way, Old Trafford, Manchester, M16 0RA T: +44 (0)161 868 8000 W: www.manutd.com The story of Manchester United is unlike any other club in the world. Beginning more than a century ago, it combines eras of total English and European domination with some of the greatest adversity faced by any football club. Only at the Manchester United Museum & Tour can you experience the story in all its glory, and immerse yourself in a legend still being made.

Alternatively take a taxi to the Trafford Centre for shopping or one of the following adventure experiences: Chill Factore 7 Trafford Way, Trafford Quays Leisure Village, Manchester, M41 7JA T: +44 (0) 161 749 2222 W: www.chillfactore.com Groups of all ages and abilities can ski, board, tube, luge, sledge, airboard or climb at Chill Factore. Skiing lessons, snowboarding sessions, speedy 60m luges and climbing walls are available for adventurous groups to enjoy. Located in Trafford Quays Leisure Village, just off the M60, you also find bars and restaurants in their Alpine Village.

Airkix Indoor Skydiving 9 Trafford Way, Trafford Park, Manchester M41 7JA T: +44 (0) 845 331 6549 W: www.airkix.com Experience the magic of flight with a trip to Airkix indoor skydiving. Feel the sensation of human flight as you’re suspended on a high column of air in an exciting and safe environment. It’s skydiving! Indoors!

When finished, please make your way back to the city to catch the train back to London or to the airport, stopping at your hotel if necessary to pick up your luggage.

Late PM - Depart.

Old Trafford Football Stadium Manchester Index

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NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD ART & CULTURE 3-DAY ITINERARY Stitched together by seven awe-inspiring bridges, NewcastleGateshead forms a cultural hub home to a host of icons including the Angel of the North, BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, and the landmark music hall, The Sage Gateshead.

Day One

Recently named the ‘hipster capital of the north’ in the influential Lonely Planet Great Britain Travel guidebook, NewcastleGateshead is a chic destination packed with award-winning restaurants, fantastic attractions and a varied retail offering, mixing independent boutiques with high-street mainstays and designer outlets as well as Europe’s largest shopping centre at Metrocentre, Gateshead.

Depart from London Kings Cross to Newcastle Central Station by train in just 2 3/4 hours.

The Great North Museum and Northumbria University’s Sport Central are amongst the city’s newest attractions. Great North Museum has attracted over one million visitors since opening in April 2009. The museum has undergone a £26m refurbishment and features a scale model of local World Heritage Site Hadrian’s Wall.

Nearby Discovery Museum gives an insight into historical life on Tyneside and has an impressive interactive gallery of exhibits.

Northumbria University’s Sport Central is a £30m state-of-the-art complex, situated in the heart of Newcastle city centre providing a 3000-seater main arena, climbing wall, sprint track, 25m swimming pool and many more world-class facilities making it one of the destination’s most striking sporting venues.

The Ouseburn Valley – heralded by the New York Times as one of most vibrant areas in NewcastleGateshead - was once the cradle of the industrial revolution on Tyneside, and has transformed into an exciting place to live, work and play, thanks to imaginative, culture led regeneration projects and the enthusiasm and commitment of the local community. Now the stunning townscape, set against fields, two rivers and six bridges, is home to artists, musicians, creative businesses, and attractions.

The NewcastleGateshead Discover Pass is THE visitor discounting pass for the destination with over 120 offers at attractions, cultural venues, pubs, restaurants and hotels. It is available direct from www.discoverpass.co.uk, which has information on the latest deals and top places to visit in NewcastleGateshead, or from Tourist Information Centres.

For more information on upcoming events and ideas for things to see, do and visit in NewcastleGateshead go to www.NewcastleGateshead.co.uk or follow @altweet_pet on Twitter. The Official NewcastleGateshead city guide iPhone app is now available to download from the iTunes app store; search for hotels, restaurants and bars or browse upcoming events on the move www.NewcastleGateshead.com/website-apps

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Morning

Start your trip with a cultural icon – take the ‘Angel’ bus (number 22) from Central Newcastle and head to the world-famous Angel of the North.

Named in 2011 as one of Lonely Planet’s 1000 Ultimate Sights, the Angel of the North is Britain's largest sculpture. Designed by Antony Gormley, it weighs 200 tons, is 20m high and has a 54m wing span. The rich red/brown colour comes from the weathering steel which can withstand winds of more than 161 km per hour.

On your return to central NewcastleGateshead head straight for the bustling NewcastleGateshead Quayside.

NewcastleGateshead Quayside and the seven amazing bridges spanning more than 100 years including the award-winning Gateshead Millennium Bridge (also one of Lonely Planet’s 1000 Ultimate Sights)– the world’s first tilting bridge (linking Newcastle Quayside and Gateshead Quays). Designed by Wilkinson Eyre Architects and engineered

by Gifford, the bridge takes its place at the end of a line of distinguished bridges across the River Tyne, including the Tyne Bridge and Robert Stephenson's High Level Bridge. www.gateshead.gov.uk/bridge Across the Gateshead Millennium Bridge on Gateshead Quays lies BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, one of Europe’s most exciting contemporary art galleries; and international music centre The Sage Gateshead.

The Sage Gateshead is both a live music venue and a centre for music education. The local, national and international concert programme runs all year round. It incorporates all kinds of music ranging from acoustic, indie, country, world, folk, jazz, electronic and dance to classical music, including concerts by Northern Sinfonia, orchestra of The Sage Gateshead.

It brings national and international performers to the region that have not previously appeared in the North East and offer a new and outstandingly equipped additional venue to performers already established in the region. www.thesagegateshead.org Enjoy Lunch on The Sage Gateshead concourse at the Sir Michael Straker Café. Serving from early until late, the café offers a wide range of snacks and drinks, including freshly ground organic, fair trade and rainforest alliance compliant coffee. The in-house bakery produces a range of snacks and throughout the day, the café offers hot food, from freshly made soup to an ever-changing array of hearty hot meals. Visitors can also enjoy free Wi-Fi in the building.

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NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD ART & CULTURE 3-DAY ITINERARY Afternoon

Evening

After Lunch take the short walk to the nearby BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art.

To the east of the Newcastle Quayside lies the Ouseburn Valley, an area that has transformed into a thriving cultural quarter. Featuring everything from art galleries and workshops, to pubs, eateries and attractions including The Cluny, one of NewcastleGateshead’s coolest watering holes and live music venues.

Housed in a landmark industrial building on the south bank of the River Tyne in Gateshead, BALTIC is the biggest gallery of its kind in the world – presenting a dynamic, diverse and international programme of contemporary visual art. In 2011 it became the first non-Tate venue outside of London to host the Turner prize, and provides an everchanging calendar of exhibitions and activities that give a unique and compelling insight into contemporary artistic practice. www.balticmill.com Back across the Gateshead Millennium Bridge behind an unassuming shop front is one of the most exciting contemporary and street Art galleries in not only Britain, but the world, The Outsiders.

The Outsiders, Newcastle Quayside The Lazarides group are the primary source of original artwork and prints for artists including Antony Micallef, Faile, JR, Vhils, Stanley Donwood, Charlie Isoe, Mode 2, Paul Insect, Kelsey Brookes, Invader, 3D and are closely associated with street art phenomenon Banksy.

Having operated for many years outside of the ‘conventional gallery system’ the group now have several de facto galleries (Newcastle, London and LA) but remain unconventional, presenting an ever changing portfolio of artists from around the world. www.lazinc.com

The Cluny, Lime Street Set in the heart of the Ouseburn district, this music venue and bar plays host to rising stars from across the globe. A chilled-out haven for music fans and artists, the Cluny Kitchen rustles up their legendary burgers and the bar serves premium local and international beers. www.theheadofsteam.co.uk/ The Cumberland Arms James Place Street The Cumberland Arms serves real ale and cider from a variety of breweries, and also boasts a fantastic food menu. The pub is a local hotspot for live music, gigs and traditional folk sessions with a variety of music and comedy acts regularly gracing the regulars with their presence. www.thecumberlandarms.co.uk The Tyne Bar Maling Street The Tyne was formerly known as the Ship Tavern; a notorious establishment better known for the horizontal refreshment on offer in the rooms above as for the liquid refreshment offered at the bar. Since its refurbishment in 1995 however, The Tyne has provided Newcastle with a very civilized blend of wonderful beer, great music and innovative food. Whether you want to sample the very best of locally brewed real ales or simply enjoy a coffee in our unique beer garden the Tyne has something to offer you. www.thetyne.com/

Quayside Newcastle upon Tyne, NewcastleGateshead Index

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NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD ART & CULTURE 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two Morning After experiencing a taste of the Ouseburn Valley last night, spend some time exploring its daytime friendly attractions, including Seven Stories, centre for children’s books the UK’s only archive and gallery in the UK dedicated to the art of children’s literature. Also nearby lies art house Star and Shadow Cinema, Northern Print and The Biscuit Factory art galleries.

The Victoria Tunnel, Tour starts at Ouseburn Farm, Lime Street, Ouseburn and must be booked in advance – the tour takes three hours.

The Victoria Tunnel runs beneath the city from the Town Moor down to the Tyne.

It was built in 1842 to transport coal from Leazes Main Colliery to riverside staithes (jetties) ready for loading onto ships. In 1939, it was converted into an air-raid shelter to protect hundreds of Newcastle citizens during World War II. A programme of repairs has been carried out and part of the Tunnel is open all year round to the public for guided tours which include fantastic sound and visual effects.

Experience the sounds of a wartime air raid and follow your guides underground to discover the Tunnel's role as a colliery waggonway. Listen out for the oncoming coal wagons! www.ouseburntrust.org.uk/index.php?page=victoria-tunnel After the tour head to The Biscuit Factory and enjoy lunch in The Factory Kitchen before exploring the main gallery space.

The Biscuit Factory, Stoddart Street Established in 2002, The Biscuit Factory is the UK’s largest commercial Art space.

Selecting from both emerging and established artists, The Biscuit Factory has a reputation for presenting unparalleled exhibitions and works with thousands of artists every year. www.thebiscuitfactory.com/

External viewing terrace of the BALTIC Centre Newcastle upon Tyne, NewcastleGateshead 38

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NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD ART & CULTURE 3-DAY ITINERARY Afternoon Northern Print, Stepney Bank A gallery and printmaking studio, located in the heart of Newcastle's Ouseburn Valley, just a few minutes from the city centre. The gallery and studios offer a range of visitor experiences including use of the studio to create original prints, printmaking classes and courses for beginners and those with more experience to hand, and a gallery of contemporary original prints. Northern Print supports artists and is not-forprofit. The entrance to the gallery is FREE. www.northernprint.org.uk Seven Stories, Lime Street Seven Stories is Britain's gallery and archive that celebrates the wonderful world of children’s books. A great day out for the whole family, visitors will discover there is so much more to children’s books than they ever imagined. From interactive exhibitions, storytelling and creative activities to dressing-up and dramatic fun, you’ll find something for the whole family. Discover them tucked under the Byker Bridge in Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley, the perfect storybook setting. www.sevenstories.org.uk Star and Shadow Cinema, Stepney Bank At the Star and Shadow Cinema, we programme films, gigs, live art and exhibitions.

Anything that we believe that is new, different, underground, original, and, we hope, good. Films are shown every Thursday and Sunday night, at 7.30pm. Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays are open to any other kind of event (gigs generally, but the options are open - including to films). On Mondays and Tuesdays the cinema is closed, except for meetings. That's because volunteers also need some rest! www.starandshadow.org.uk/

Evening Indulge in delicious cuisine in one of the destination’s most stylish restaurants, taking in delectable roof top views from BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art. SIX@BALTIC, BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, Baltic Quays Six is the stunning rooftop restaurant at BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art combining breathtaking panoramic views with great food, great service and a great

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experience. Brought to you by Fresh Element, Executive Chef Richard Sim, will be preparing his trademark style of food best described as British modern cuisine featuring the very best ingredients simply cooked and served in a relaxed and friendly setting. Fresh Element brings to the restaurant their values of good, wholesome food, regionally sourced at a reasonable price with outstanding service in this spectacular venue. www.balticmill.com After dinner take a trip to the theatre and enjoy everything from grand Victorian opulence to home grown productions from the team who brought the world Pitmen Painters.

Theatre Royal, Grey Street Opened in February 1837, the Grade I listed Theatre Royal remains one of the most historic, cultural landmarks in the country and continues to dominate the heart of Newcastle’s Grainger Town. Presenting over 380 performances to over 300000 people each year it’s the regional home of the Royal Shakespeare Company, the National Theatre, Opera North and Rambert Dance Company. www.theatreroyal.co.uk Northern Stage, Kings Road Life begins at 40 for Northern Stage, which celebrated its coming of age in 2010.

Facing onto Newcastle University's student building, and crowned by local artist Cath Campbell's thrilling installation, Escapology, Northern Stage can be accessed from both Kings Walk and Kings Road. With a glass wall running the full length of the building, the foyer provides a fantastically light and welcoming reception for audiences and visitors. The building has three performance spaces, a fantastic new foyer and simple and open access for visitors, audiences and performers. www.northernstage.co.uk Live Theatre, Broad Chare Live Theatre is recognised as one of the country’s leading new writing theatres and has gained a fantastic reputation for the way it finds, nurtures and develops regional talent and transforms ideas into performance of the highest quality for stage, radio, film and television. Live Theatre’s work is accessible, providing an arts programme that is unique to the city and the region and which involves all sections of the community as participants and audiences. Live Theatre staged the world premiere of Lee Hall’s production of The Pitmen Painters which has since gone on to acclaimed performances at London’s National Theatre and Broadway. www.live.org.uk

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NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD ART & CULTURE 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Three Morning Spend the morning exploring the destination’s historic architecture. Grey Street, in the heart of NewcastleGateshead’s historic Grainger Town, was voted the Best Street in Britain by listeners of national station BBC Radio 4 and the area boasts more listed classical Georgian buildings than anywhere else in England, outside of Bath and the capital. As you’re exploring Grainger Town make sure you look up to enjoy the dramatic architecture on offer. The focal point of Grainger Town is Grey’s monument, which was erected in 1938 to commemorate the Reform Act of 1832, introduced by the then Prime Minister Earl Grey, who was born in the North East and is probably better known for bringing the nation’s favourite Earl Grey Tea to the UK. Afterwards, head for the Laing Art Gallery, one of the longest running art galleries in the city and home to classic and contemporary Art alike from some of the area’s best known artists.

Laing Art Gallery, New Bridge Street The Laing is home to an impressive collection of art and sculpture and its exhibition programme is renowned for bringing the biggest names in historic, modern and contemporary art to the North East. The impressive permanent collection can be enjoyed throughout the season with dynamic landscapes by John Martin and sculpture by Henry Moore. There are events throughout the year including talks from leading contemporary artists and fun activities for families. Many of these events, like the gallery, are free of charge. The works on show change regularly to show the impressive range of art in the collection so please contact the gallery if you wish to see a particular piece of work. www.twmuseums.org.uk/laing/ Time for lunch… set out for elegant Grey Street and enjoy lunch amongst the city’s Georgian splendour!

Blake’s Coffee House, 53 Grey Street Situated on the majestic sweep of Grey Street, Blake's Coffee House is a favourite destination with a lively atmosphere. Blake’s offers a mixture of hot and cold sandwiches with interesting fillings, lovely cakes, breakfasts and a selection of daily hot dishes.

Grey Street Newcastle upon Tyne, NewcastleGateshead 40

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NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD ART & CULTURE 3-DAY ITINERARY Afternoon The destination is home to an array of fascinating museums each unearthing something different about life on Tyneside, from the area’s Roman roots at Great North Museum, to the industrial revolution at Discovery Museum, more recently the city’s place as a centre for science is explored at the Centre for Life.

Great North Museum, Barras Bridge, Newcastle – FREE entry The Great North Museum has recently undergone a £26m refurbishment and is an exciting place to learn about the region’s history, the ancient Egyptians, Romans and the Dinosaurs! www.twmuseums.org.uk/greatnorthmuseum Discovery Museum, Blandford Square, Newcastle – FREE entry Celebrating the area’s history, Discovery is home to a model of Turbinia, built in 1864 and the first ship to be powered by steam turbines. The latest temporary exhibition looks at the life of Lord Admiral Collingwood who was born in the city and took over at the Battle of Trafalgar when Nelson fell, 2010 sees 200 years since his death. www.twmuseums.org.uk/discovery The Life Science Centre, Times Sq, Scotswood Rd The Life Science Centre is a vibrant and exciting place where science is explored through hands-on displays, interactive games and demonstrations. The Centre encourages curiosity about science by uncovering new things about life and the world around us. www.life.org.uk

Evening We all love movies and NewcastleGateshead is home to a very special cinema indeed…

Tyneside Cinema, Pilgrim Street Fans of traditional and Art House cinema are spoiled with the recently refurbished Tyneside Cinema in NewcastleGateshead. The beautiful art deco building is home to the country’s last surviving news cinema still in full-time operation and is also home to coffee and drinks bars where cinema goers can grab a bite to eat and drink before settling down to watch the movie of their choice. Interestingly, the cinema was founded by the uncle of Hollywood directors’ Ridley and Tony Scott, Dixon Scott, and this legacy is told in the corridors and stairwells of the beautifully restored building.

Enjoy dinner in The Tyneside Coffee Rooms before settling down to some classic cinema. A local legend is reborn. Tyneside Coffee Rooms have been on the second floor of the Tyneside for more than 70 years. Its mix of comfort food and genuinely warm-hearted service has made it a favourite of Newcastle café life young and old. www.tynecine.org Index

Children explore the magic of mirrors in the Science Maze Gallery of the Discovery Museum Newcastle upon Tyne, NewcastleGateshead 41

NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD 3-DAY CITY BREAK ITINERARY

Day One Morning Depart from London Kings Cross to Newcastle Central Station by train in just 2 3/4 hours.

Kick start your visit with a Blue Badge Guided tour from one of North East England’s knowledgeable tourist guides and discover: Grainger Town and Highbridge The historic heart of the city, including the Castle Keep and its gate house (known as Black Gate) and the Cathedral Church of St Nicholas. The Castle Keep stands on the original site of the new castle – built by William the Conqueror’s son – from which Newcastle takes its name.

Grainger Market was the largest covered market in Europe when it was built in the 1830s. Today it is the place to buy fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and fish, as well as other household items. Grainger Town is the Georgian quarter of the city, and is the city’s centre for shopping. This includes elegant Grey Street – voted the best street in Britain by BBC Radio 4 listeners – and the beautiful Theatre Royal. A huge 40 percent of the buildings in Grainger Town are listed, the highest concentration of listed buildings anywhere in the country outside Bath and the capital.

Newcastle’s Grade I listed Theatre Royal, which has been inspiring and entertaining since 1788, has been closed to stage lovers for the past four and a half months to undergo a major £4.75m restoration back to its original Frank Matcham 1901 design and re-opened on 12 September 2011.

Grainger Town is fast gaining a reputation as the place to find smaller independent shops, plus a selection of the best names on the high street. Vivienne Westwood also has one of its flagship stores here. You’ll find Reiss, Jigsaw, French Connection alongside Kurt Geiger, Office, Dune and Moda in Pelle.

High Bridge is a little cobbled street close to Grainger Town which is filled with independent clothing and music shops. It is home to Union www.unionclothing.co.uk, vintage clothing specialist Best Vintage an independent urban menswear retailer Trickle www.trickleclothing.com. Nearby, Attica is a veritable treasure trove of vintage clothing and memorabilia with everything from 1920s cocktail dresses to leather jackets, its situated in the hidden Old Georg Yard behind High Bridge.

The Sage Gateshead Newcastle upon Tyne, NewcastleGateshead 42

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NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD 3-DAY CITY BREAK ITINERARY Afternoon Time for lunch… set out for elegant Grey Street and enjoy lunch amongst the city’s Georgian splendour!

Blake’s Coffee House, 53 Grey Street

and workshops, to pubs, eateries and attractions including The Cluny, one of NewcastleGateshead’s coolest watering holes and live music venues. It is also home to Seven Stories, centre for children’s books the UK’s only archive and gallery in the UK dedicated to the art of children’s literature. Also nearby lies art house Star and Shadow Cinema, Northern Print and The Biscuit Factory art galleries.

Situated on the majestic sweep of Grey Street, Blake's Coffee House is a favourite destination with a lively atmosphere. Blake’s offers a mixture of hot and cold sandwiches with interesting fillings, lovely cakes, breakfasts and a selection of daily hot dishes.

Evening

Continue on your tour and take in

Take a trip to the theatre and enjoy everything from grand Victorian opulence to home grown productions from the team who brought the world Pitmen Painters.

NewcastleGateshead Quayside and the seven amazing bridges spanning more than 100 years including the award-winning Gateshead Millennium Bridge – the world’s first tilting bridge (linking Newcastle Quayside and Gateshead Quays).

Designed by Wilkinson Eyre Architects and engineered by Gifford, the bridge takes its place at the end of a line of distinguished bridges across the River Tyne, including the Tyne Bridge and Robert Stephenson's High Level Bridge. www.gateshead.gov.uk/bridge Across the Gateshead Millennium Bridge on Gateshead Quays lies BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, one of Europe’s most exciting contemporary art galleries; and international music centre The Sage Gateshead.

Housed in a landmark industrial building on the south bank of the River Tyne in Gateshead, BALTIC is the biggest gallery of its kind in the world – presenting a dynamic, diverse and international programme of contemporary visual art. In 2011 it became the first non-Tate venue outside of London to host the Turner prize, and provides an ever-changing calendar of exhibitions and activities that give a unique and compelling insight into contemporary artistic practice. www.balticmill.com The Sage Gateshead is both a live music venue and a centre for music education. The local, national and international concert programme runs all year round. It incorporates all kinds of music ranging from acoustic, indie, country, world, folk, jazz, electronic and dance to classical music, including concerts by Northern Sinfonia, orchestra of The Sage Gateshead. It brings national and international performers to the region that have not previously appeared in the North East and offer a new and outstandingly equipped additional venue to performers already established in the region. www.thesagegateshead.org To the east of the Newcastle Quayside lies the Ouseburn Valley, an area that has transformed into a thriving cultural quarter. Featuring everything from art galleries Index

Theatre Royal, Grey Street Opened in February 1837, the Grade I listed Theatre Royal remains one of the most historic, cultural landmarks in the country and continues to dominate the heart of Newcastle’s Grainger Town. Presenting over 380 performances to over 300,000 people each year it’s the regional home of the Royal Shakespeare Company, the National Theatre, Opera North and Rambert Dance Company. www.theatreroyal.co.uk Northern Stage, Kings Road Life begins at 40 for Northern Stage, which celebrated its coming of age in 2010.

Facing onto Newcastle University's student building, and crowned by local artist Cath Campbell's thrilling installation, Escapology, Northern Stage can be accessed from both Kings Walk and Kings Road. With a glass wall running the full length of the building, the foyer provides a fantastically light and welcoming reception for audiences and visitors. The building has three performance spaces, a fantastic new foyer and simple and open access for visitors, audiences and performers. www.northernstage.co.uk Live Theatre, Broad Chare Live Theatre is recognised as one of the country’s leading new writing theatres and has gained a fantastic reputation for the way it finds, nurtures and develops regional talent and transforms ideas into performance of the highest quality for stage, radio, film and television.

Live Theatre’s work is accessible, providing an arts programme that is unique to the city and the region and which involves all sections of the community as participants and audiences. Live Theatre staged the world premiere of Lee Hall’s production of The Pitmen Painters which has since gone on to acclaimed performances at London’s National Theatre and Broadway. www.live.org.uk

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NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD 3-DAY CITY BREAK ITINERARY

Day Two Morning Come face-to-face with the twin cities history; explore the destination’s hidden subterranean tunnels and award-winning museums.

The Victoria Tunnel, Tour starts at Ouseburn Farm, Lime Street, Ouseburn and must be booked in advance.

The Victoria Tunnel runs beneath the city from the Town Moor down to the Tyne. It was built in 1842 to transport coal from Leazes Main Colliery to riverside staithes (jetties) ready for loading onto ships. In 1939, it was converted into an air-raid shelter to protect hundreds of Newcastle citizens during World War II. A programme of repairs has been carried out and part of the Tunnel is open all year round to the public for guided tours which include fantastic sound and visual effects.

Experience the sounds of a wartime air raid and follow your guides underground to discover the Tunnel's role as a colliery waggonway. Listen out for the oncoming coal wagons! www.ouseburntrust.org.uk/index.php?page=victoria-tunnel Great North Museum, Barras Bridge, Newcastle – FREE entry The Great North Museum has recently undergone a £26m refurbishment and is an exciting place to learn about the region’s history, the ancient Egyptians, Romans and the Dinosaurs! www.twmuseums.org.uk/greatnorthmuseum Discovery Museum, Blandford Square, Newcastle – FREE entry Celebrating the area’s history, Discovery is home to a model of Turbinia, built in 1864 and the first ship to be powered by steam turbines. The latest temporary exhibition looks at the life of Lord Admiral Collingwood who was born in the city and took over at the Battle of Trafalgar when Nelson fell, 2010 sees 200 years since his death. www.twmuseums.org.uk/discovery

Afternoon Escape the city centre and head to Jesmond Dene House for an exquisite afternoon tea before unwinding in the nearby Dene.

Jesmond Dene House, Jesmond Dene, Newcastle A grand house with contemporary style and a leafy setting near the heart of the city.

The 4-star Jesmond Dene House is neither a townhouse nor a country house hotel.

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Jesmond Dene House Hotel Jesmond Dene, NewcastleGateshead Index

NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD 3-DAY CITY BREAK ITINERARY It’s simply 40 well-designed rooms in a richly historic building offering understated luxury and rather good food. Overlooking the small wooded valley of Jesmond Dene, it guarantees peace, escapism and a refreshing change. And NewcastleGateshead city centre is just minutes away.

Fresh and light interiors are set against the fine, rich features of this Arts and Crafts house. Big beds, crisp bathrooms, space to work, space to relax. There are handsome rooms for dining, meeting and celebrating - from the wood-panelled Great Hall to the light-filled Garden Room. Food is straightforward, flavoursome and fresh. www.jesmonddenehouse.co.uk Jesmond Dene Jesmond Dene is a unique haven of peace and tranquility for the people of Newcastle.

It is a narrow wooded valley that follows the river Ouseburn between South Gosforth and Jesmond Vale. This provides an important wildlife corridor right into the centre of Newcastle. There is a spectacular mix of native and exotic trees, and the Dene is home to a lot of wildlife, notably the Kingfisher, the Red Squirrel and many woodland birds. The Dene stretches for over three kilometres and has many areas of tranquillity, as well as ‘honey pots’ of activity.

Jesmond Dene provides strong historical links with 19th Century industrial development and landscape design – Lord Armstrong’ s influence being very apparent. There is also a large network of paths and bridges throughout. www.jesmonddene.org.uk/

Evening Explore NewcastleGateshead’s famous nightlife A TripAdvisor poll in 2010 named Newcastle as the third best place in Europe for nightlife (behind London and Berlin). Whether you like traditional pubs, fashionable bars or cutting edge clubs – NewcastleGateshead has something for everyone.

For the traditional pub lover: Take a short walk to the popular Ouseburn district - an artsy scene host to a variety of bars, music venues and art galleries The Cluny, Lime Street Set in the heart of the Ouseburn district, this music venue and bar plays host to rising stars from across the globe. A chilled-out haven for music fans and artists, the Cluny Index

Kitchen rustles up their legendary burgers and the bar serves premium local and international beers. www.theheadofsteam.co.uk/ The Cumberland Arms The Cumberland Arms serves real ale and cider from a variety of breweries, and also boasts a fantastic food menu. The pub is a local hotspot for live music, gigs and traditional folk sessions with a variety of music and comedy acts regularly gracing the regulars with their presence. www.thecumberlandarms.co.uk For the luxe bar connoisseur: Explore Collingwood Street in the centre of Newcastle upon Tyne – or the ‘Diamond Strip’ as it’s referred to by locals. This is the place to be seen on a Friday and Saturday night.

Madame Koo, Collingwood Street Situated at the heart of the Diamond Strip, this trendy bar with its brick walls and East-Asian theme sees the city night owls flock every weekend for the ‘sneaky disco’ where they dance to a mixture of club classics and underground favourites across all genres of music. www.madamekoo.co.uk Florita's Miami Bar and Tropical Garden NewcastleGateshead’s original chic bar Apartment has a new look! Inspired by the wild Miami party scene, Floritas joins the exclusive bars of NewcastleGateshead’s renowned Diamond Strip. With its heated outdoor garden, fresh cocktails, ice cold beers and array of party anthems, Floritas is the new place to be. www.floritasbar.com/index.html For those that want to party all night: Finish your night off in style at one of NewcastleGateshead’s award-winning nightclubs Digital, Times Square One of the biggest clubs in town and what a stunner! Two rooms - 1,400 capacity and one of the best sound systems you'll ever encounter; namely the Funktion One Dance Stack (there's only a handful in the whole world and Digital has four of them!). An iconic nightclub, Digital has a range of nights from dance, soul, hip hop and indie. www.yourfutureisdigital.com

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NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD 3-DAY CITY BREAK ITINERARY

Day Three Morning Board the Metro and head to the nearby coast – just 20 minutes away!

Take the metro from any of NewcastleGateshead’s centrally located stations (Gateshead, Central Station, Monument and Haymarket) and head for the stunning seaside village of Tynemouth.

The village mixes classic quaint surroundings with funky finds and quirky outlets.

You’ll easily lose an hour or two wandering around its beautiful boutique shops. It’s also the perfect place to spend time with the family, having fun on the beach – paddling in the rock-pools and exploring some of the great nearby attractions. A short distance along the coast line in Whitley Bay lies St Mary’s Island and Lighthouse. Accessible only at low tide by a causeway, the lighthouse is also a nature reserve and hold rock-pool rambles for visitors young and old to discover the wonders of the sea. Complementing the four Blue Flag awarded beaches between Whitley Bay and Tynemouth is Tynemouth village where you'll find an interesting mix of antique shops, fashion boutiques, restaurants and superb village pubs.

Steeped in history, there is no better way to discover centuries of history than wandering through the ruins of Tynemouth Priory and Castle. Legend has it that the Priory is the burial place of kings from the old kingdom of Northumbria, the ruins are steeped in mystery and stand as the first fortifications protecting this section of the North East coast and Newcastle from invaders abroad, and even from the enemy at home during the English Civil War. www.english-heritage.org.uk/tynemouth Situated nearby is the ultimate under-sea safari at Blue Reef Aquarium.

Blue Reef Aquarium, Grand Parade, Tynemouth Enjoy close encounters with seahorses, sharks, giant octopus, frogs, otters and hundreds of other incredible aquatic creatures. Entertaining talks and feeding displays help bring the whole experience to life. In addition the brand new Amazing Amazon display gives visitors the chance to get up close to tropical plants and some mini monkeys. Don't miss the amazing Seal Cove! www.bluereefaquarium.co.uk/tynemouth.htm If shopping is more your thing, then Tynemouth is the perfect location to experience shopping with a more relaxed vibe than the usual high street offering.

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St Mary's Lighthouse Whitley Bay, NewcaslteGateshead Index

NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD 3-DAY CITY BREAK ITINERARY Land of Green Ginger, 8 Percy Park Road

City Retreat, 55 Degrees North

This 19th century church was converted into the Land of Green Ginger shopping complex in 1980 offering a non-conformist alternative to the high street, the great hall is a trinket box of antiques and rarities.

Named The Best British Beauty Salon (with four rooms or more) in 2008, City Retreat is an award winning beauty salon situated in the heart of city of Newcastle.

Razzberry Bizarre, 14 Front Street Is home to a fine and unusual shopping experience and is jam packed with unique clothing, gifts and household goods. www.razzberrybazaar.co.uk

Offering over 100 different treatments from Elemis, Guinot, Aromatherapy Associates, Bare Escentuals Mineral Make-up, Jessica, Caci, Creative and Cal Gel. www.city-retreat.com

Evening Afternoon Feeling peckish? Why not try one of these great café’s for lunch before heading back to the central NewcastleGateshead Cruesoe’s, Longsands Beach, Tynemouth Located on Longsands beach, this fun restaurant serves up fantastic food and fantastic views. www.robinsoncrusoes.co.uk Lui’s, 69a Front Street, Tynemouth The best of British cuisine locally sourced with a Spanish twist. Enjoy the tapas style menu for lunch or relax outside on a fine summer’s evening. www.luisbar.com Board the Metro and head back into NewcastleGateshead and be pampered in one of the city spas

We all love movies and NewcastleGateshead is home to a very special cinema indeed…

Tyneside Cinema, Pilgrim Street Fans of traditional and Art House cinema are spoiled with the recently refurbished Tyneside Cinema in NewcastleGateshead. The beautiful art deco building is home to the country’s last surviving news cinema still in full-time operation and is also home to coffee and drinks bars where cinema goers can grab a bite to eat and drink before settling down to watch the movie of their choice. Interestingly, the cinema was founded by the uncle of Hollywood directors’ Ridley and Tony Scott, Dixon Scott, and this legacy is told in the corridors and stairwells of the beautifully restored building www.tynecine.org

Alight at Jesmond Metro Station Serenity in the City, 48 Osborne Road Serenity in the City, in Newcastle is the stylish place to go for all those essentials in life. Manicure, pedicure, tinting, shaping, waxing, massage and facials. Best to book, but call in if you’re passing. In and out as quick as you like or linger in the Buddha lounge over a coffee or a smoothie. Your time, your choice. www.serenityinthecity.co.uk Alight Central Station Le Petit Spa, Malmaison Quayside When the big city gets too big and the bright lights too blinding, there is a small secret solution - inner city peace and its secrets can be found at le petit spa at Malmaison Newcastle. From the quick fixer to the all day escape, there are treatments & packages to suit all situated on NewcastleGateshead’s breathtaking Quayside Alight Monument Metro Station Index

Collingwood Monument Tynemouth, NewcastleGateshead 47

WEYMOUTH, PORTLAND & DORSET 3-DAY ITINERARY • • • •

Some of England’s most stunning, unspoiled coastal and rural landscapes Home to England’s only natural World Heritage Site Thomas Hardy’s birthplace and inspiration London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games sailing events venue

Day One Morning Depart from London Waterloo by train to Gillingham in just 2 hours (driving time is similar, taking the M3 from west London). Trains also arrive into Christchurch, Wareham and Weymouth if you wish to change the order of the itinerary.

Afternoon Shaftesbury, a hilltown c. 1000m high overlooking the Blackmore Vale, with views over 3 counties (Dorset, Hampshire & Wiltshire). The town is famous for Gold Hill, a steep cobbled hill lined with 18th century small houses and cottages on one side and what remains of the town wall on the other. The Museum is on the site of the nunnery founded in 9th century by King Alfred and which housed the bones of Edward the Martyr after his death in 978 and become an important place of pilgrimage.

Evening Christchurch, a particularly attractive town where the Rivers Avon and Stour converge into the sea and famed for its Priory. The Priory is one of the few monastery churches to have survived Henry VIII’s rule and is reputed to be the longest church in England. The town has a scenic harbour and nearby is Mudeford Harbour, used by local fishermen. There are a number of 4 star hotels in the area so fine dining is plentiful.

Durdle Door Lulworth Cove, Dorset 48

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WEYMOUTH, PORTLAND & DORSET 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Day Three

Morning

Morning

Visit to Corfe Castle village, one of Dorset’s prettiest villages, with buildings made in the famous local Purbeck stone. Corfe Castle is a local icon; the Castle was established by William the Conqueror and was besieged by Oliver Cromwell’s troops during the English Civil War www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Visit to Abbotsbury Swannery, the world’s only managed colony of mute swans; we will be visiting at feeding time. Abbotsbury is also the location of one of the best gardens in Dorset with plants from around the world. It is worth taking time to wander round the village, one of Dorset’s prettiest, to enjoy the pubs, tearooms and artist studios. www.abbotsbury-tourism.co.uk

Visit to Lulworth Cove & Durdle Door, two of the best known geological formations along the Jurassic Coast www.jurassiccoast.com. Durdle Door is a natural stone arch created by erosion; from here, walk along the South West Coast Path (downhill!) to Lulworth Cove, as well as being a picturesque harbour, features rock layers, which have been ‘folded’ to appear almost vertical, and thus expose geological strata not usually visible.

Afternoon

Afternoon Visit Charmouth or Lyme Regis for guided fossil walk (tides permitting) – this is one of the best places along the coast for fossil hunting. Charmouth Heritage Centre has one of the best displays about the World Heritage Site and Lyme Regis Museum tells the story of the town’s most famous fossil hunter, Mary Anning. www.jurassiccoast.com

Arrive Weymouth, a seaside resort made famous by King George III – you will see his chalk figure on horseback carved into the hills as you arrive. Weymouth was awarded the 2010 TripAdvisor award for the UK’s best emerging destination

Evening

Discover how Weymouth & Portland will deliver the ultimate visitor experience for the 2012 sailing events; key sites include the free Live Site and Festival Village on Weymouth Beach, the Ticketed Venue at Nothe Fort, and of course, the venue itself the Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy www.wpnsa.org.uk

Sherborne, probably Dorset’s most attractive town, famous for its Castle and Abbey first built in AD705 and known as Dorset’s cathedral. The beautiful townhouses dating from the 15th century onwards are built in the local stone and the High Street is full of boutiques and gift shops, delicatessens, cafes and traditional pubs. The town was formerly the capital of Wessex.

Tour of Weymouth & Portland: explore the area’s rich maritime history and heritage from Portland Castle built in Tudor times to smuggling and the world- famous Portland Stone that forms many landmark buildings around the world; see breathtaking views from Portland Heights, Chesil Beach one of the world’s longest barrier beaches and then to Portland Bill, the southernmost point of Dorset and the site of many a shipwreck!

Evening No visit is complete without sampling some of the local seafood including the finest crab or locally farmed oysters. Enjoy these at one of the seafood restaurants and pubs around Weymouth & Portland.

Index

The Cob at dawn Lyme Regis 49

WEYMOUTH, PORTLAND & DORSET THE GREAT BRITISH SEASIDE EXPERIENCE – 3-DAY ITINERARY • • • •

Some of England’s most stunning, unspoiled coastal and rural landscapes Home to England’s only natural World Heritage Site Thomas Hardy’s birthplace and inspiration London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games sailing events venue

Day One Morning Depart from London, Waterloo by train to Bournemouth – 1 1/2 hour journey direct.

Taxi or bus to Bournemouth Town Centre. Choose from hundreds of types of accommodation from traditional to boutique sea views.

Afternoon Stroll through Bournemouth’s award winning gardens and marvel at the traditional bandstand with performances throughout the summer. A short stroll will bring you to the famous award winning seaside at Bournemouth with over llkm of sandy beach to choose from. Rent a Union Jack beach hut for the day with vintage accessories for a truly ‘British’ experience, sit back and relax in a traditional deck chair and marvel at the view. Take a stroll along the iconic Pier and have tea and Dorset Apple Cake at the Key West café.

Evening To complete the beach experience, have dinner at one of the seafront restaurants, tasting freshly caught seafood from the Dorset coast and watch the sun set over the bay.

The pier , Bournemouth, Dorset 50

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WEYMOUTH, PORTLAND & DORSET THE GREAT BRITISH SEASIDE EXPERIENCE – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Evening

Morning

Have dinner at the Print Room (authentic art deco restaurant) Choose from Ballet to Brit pop at the Bournemouth International Centre or the Pavilion Theatre and be entertained by some of the UK’s leading artistes.

Take an open top bus to Poole (Bournemouth’s neighbour) and discover Poole Quay – the second largest natural harbour in the world.

Afternoon Get a champagne hamper from Deli on the Quay and take a trip on Brownsea Island Ferries and visit the National Trust Brownsea Island – the best place to see British wildlife. Enjoy the scenery and the picnic!

Evening Dinner at Dermot O’Leary’s Fishy Fishy restaurant or dinner at Storm fish restaurants – owned by ‘Pete the Prawn’ who goes out fishing during the day to catch the fish for the restaurants and can also organise a fishing trip to catch your own fish that can then be cooked in the restaurant. Free live music and entertainment on the Quay throughout the Summer during the evenings.

Day Three Morning Visit the Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum. One of the most important and fascinating museum-houses in England. It holds collections of international status and reflects the Victorian fascination with world cultures. Wonderful views from the gardens over the bay.

Afternoon Try a surfing lesson or paddle boarding lesson at Boscombe Beach. Watch the watersports and beach volleyball. Have a Dorset sourced lunch at the Urban Reef restaurant and sit outside on the promenade and watch the world go by. Hire a famous Wayne Hemingway British designed beach pod and indulge in the seaside lifestyle for the day.

Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum Dorset Index

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ESSEX COASTAL ITINERARY 11.20

One-Day Visit

Refreshments and express treatments

12.20 Depart for Mersea Island via Brightlingsea and ferry 08.17 Depart London Liverpool Street train station for Walton-on-the Naze

13.15

09.49 Arrive at Walton-on-the-Naze train station

The Company Shed, West Mersea The concept of The Company Shed is simple, bring your own bread and drink and enjoy lunch consisting of seafood platters, seared scallops, grilled tiger prawns and grilled mussels. Homemade fish pates, locally smoked salmon, freshly cooked crabs and lobsters and a wide variety of other seafood is available. Various specials are served, depending upon what local fish has been caught. www.the-company-shed.co.uk

10.00 Visit to Naze Tower

Arrive at The Company Shed, Mersea Island for lunch

Naze Tower, Walton on the Naze The Naze Tower is an historic landmark dramatically situated on the cliffs at the Naze.

The 26m tall octagonal tower has played an important part in maritime history and is Grade II* listed, as the only building of its type and era in the country. Today it offers visitors a unique experience of heritage and culture. www.nazetower.co.uk

14.15

11.00

14.30 Tour of Mersey Island Vineyard and wine tasting

Depart for Lifehouse Spa

Lifehouse Spa, Thorpe le Soken Opened in December 2010, Lifehouse is one of the largest spas in Europe. Located in Thorpe-le-Soken, it is a new contemporary health spa, offering a unique, life-enriching experience, tailor-made for every guest. www.lifehouse.co.uk

Travel to Mersea Island Vineyard

Mersea Island Vineyard Producers of fine wines and real ale. Scheduled tours include a conducted tour of the vineyard and winery, followed by wine tasting and vineyard platter of seafood or ploughmans lunch. www.merseawine.com 16.00 Depart for Witham train station 16.58 Depart for London Liverpool Street train station 17.46 Arrive at London Liverpool Street train station

Walton-on-the-Naze Essex Coast 52

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ESSEX COASTAL ITINERARY

Two-Day Visit

15.15

Travel to Five Lakes Hotel, Golf, Country Club & Spa

15.40 Arrive at Five Lakes for refreshments and check in

Day One 08.17 Depart London Liverpool Street train station for Walton-on- the Naze 09.49 Arrive at Walton-on-the-Naze train station

Five Lakes Hotel, Golf, Country Club & Spa This 194-room hotel is set in 129.5ha of unspoilt countryside and features two magnificent 18-hole golf courses, one of which is championship standard. It boasts an award-winning restaurant, comfortable rooms, a first-class country club and tranquil spa. www.fivelakes.co.uk

10.00 Refreshments and visit to Naze Tower 16.00 Spa treatments/golf depending on preferences Naze Tower, Walton on the Naze The Naze Tower is an historic landmark dramatically situated on the cliffs at the Naze.

The 26m tall octagonal tower has played an important part in maritime history and is Grade II* listed, as the only building of its type and era in the country. Today it offers visitors a unique experience of heritage and culture. www.nazetower.co.uk 11.20

Depart for Mersea Island

12.20 Arrive at The Company Shed, Mersea Island for lunch The Company Shed, West Mersea The concept of The Company Shed is simple, bring your own bread and drink and enjoy lunch consisting of seafood platters, seared scallops, grilled tiger prawns and grilled mussels. Homemade fish pates, locally smoked salmon, freshly cooked crabs and lobsters and a wide variety of other seafood is available. Various specials are served, depending upon what local fish has been caught. www.the-company-shed.co.uk 13.30 Travel to Mersea Island Vineyard 13.45 Tour of Mersey Island Vineyard and wine tasting Mersea Island Vineyard Producers of fine wines and real ale. Scheduled tours include a conducted tour of the vineyard and winery, followed by wine tasting and vineyard platter of seafood or ploughmans lunch. www.merseawine.com

20.00 Dinner at Five Lakes

Day Two 09.00 Depart Five Lakes 09.10 Arrive in Tiptree for tour or Wilkins & Sons Tiptree Jam Factory Wilkins & Sons Jam Factory, Tiptree Home to Tiptree’s famous jam factory. Wilkin & Sons making preserves, marmalades and associated products since 1885. www.tiptree.com 10.30 Depart for Osea Island 11.15

Arrive on Osea Island for historical tour of the Island

Osea Island Osea is an exclusive private island enclosed by 6.5km of beaches and coastline. With an abundance of wildlife and rare birds, the island still maintains a special ambience best described as unspoilt, and tranquil. www.oseaisland.co.uk 12.30 Lunch on Osea Island 13.30 Participation in one of the creative workshops offered on the Island 15.30 Travel to Witham train station 16.16

Depart for London Liverpool Street train station

17.03 Arrive at London Liverpool Street train station

Index

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ESSEX COASTAL ITINERARY

08.17 Depart London Liverpool Street train station for Walton-on- the Naze

Five Lakes Hotel, Golf, Country Club & Spa This 194-room hotel is set in 129.5ha of unspoilt countryside and features two magnificent 18-hole golf courses, one of which is championship standard. It boasts an award-winning restaurant, comfortable rooms, a first-class country club and tranquil spa. www.fivelakes.co.uk

09.49 Arrive at Walton-on-the-Naze train station

16.00 Spa treatments/golf depending on preferences

10.00 Refreshments and visit to Naze Tower

20.00 Dinner at Five Lakes

Three-Day Visit Day One

Naze Tower, Walton on the Naze The Naze Tower is an historic landmark dramatically situated on the cliffs at the Naze.

The 26m tall octagonal tower has played an important part in maritime history and is Grade II* listed, as the only building of its type and era in the country. Today it offers visitors a unique experience of heritage and culture. www.nazetower.co.uk 11.20

Depart for Mersea Island

12.20 Arrive at The Company Shed, Mersea Island for lunch The Company Shed, West Mersea The concept of The Company Shed is simple, bring your own bread and drink and enjoy lunch consisting of seafood platters, seared scallops, grilled tiger prawns and grilled mussels. Homemade fish pates, locally smoked salmon, freshly cooked crabs and lobsters and a wide variety of other seafood is available. Various specials are served, depending upon what local fish has been caught. www.the-company-shed.co.uk 13.30 Travel to Mersea Island Vineyard 13.45 Tour of Mersea Island Vineyard and wine tasting Mersea Island Vineyard Producers of fine wines and real ale. Scheduled tours include a conducted tour of the vineyard and winery, followed by wine tasting and vineyard platter of seafood or ploughmans lunch. www.merseawine.com 15.15

Travel to Five Lakes Hotel, Golf, Country Club & Spa

15.40 Arrive at Five Lakes for refreshments and check in Locally brewed Mersea Island Gold beer and locally grown oysters Mersea Island, Essex 54

Index

ESSEX COASTAL ITINERARY Day Two

13.15

09.30 Depart Five Lakes

14.00 Arrive in Southend on Sea

09.40 Arrive in Tiptree for tour of Wilkins & Sons Tiptree Jam Factory

14.15

Wilkins & Sons Jam Factory, Tiptree Home to Tiptree’s famous jam factory. Wilkin & Sons making preserves, marmalades and associated products since 1885. www.tiptree.com

Pier Museum, Southend on Sea Brings to life the fascinating past of the longest pleasure pier in the world. Artefacts, pictorial displays of pier's entertainment, disasters, staff, boats, illuminations and railway. www.southend.gov.uk/pier

11.00

Depart for Osea Island

15.00 Visit to Southend Cliff Lift

11.45

Arrive on Osea Island for historical tour of the Island

Southend Cliff Lift The Historic Cliff Lift, which is almost 100 years old, is one of only a few surviving funicular railways built to the unusual 1.4m gauge format and is now Britain's shortest.

The cliff railway is not only a brilliant way to travel between the Seafront and Cliff top leading to the High Street but is a great place to enjoy the spectacular view. www.southend.gov.uk

Osea Island Osea is an exclusive private island enclosed by 6.4km of beaches and coastline. With an abundance of wildlife and rare birds, the island still maintains a special ambience best described as unspoilt, and tranquil. www.oseaisland.co.uk 13.00 Lunch on Osea Island 14.30 Participation in one of the creative workshops offered on the Island 19.00 Dinner on Osea Island Overnight stay at Osea Island

Day Three 09.00 Depart for Burnham on Crouch

Depart for Southend on Sea Railway trip on the pier and visit to Pier Museum

15.45 Depart for Westcliff-on-Sea 15.55 Arrive at Beecroft Art Gallery Beecroft Art Gallery, Westcliff-on-Sea The Beecroft Art Gallery is home to one of the finest collections of art in the county.

Consisting of some 2000 works, the collection includes pictures by Constable and Rossetti. Works are rotated to ensure that there will normally be at least part of the permanent collection on display, in addition to any contemporary exhibitions currently running. www.beecroft-art-gallery.co.uk

09.30 Arrive at The Quay, Burnham on Crouch 16.45 Arrive at Westcliff rail station Burnham on Crouch Quiet, unspoilt riverside town - one of England's leading yachting centres. Known as the 'Cowes of the East Coast', the attractive quayside is full of old-world charm with listed buildings, boat-building yards and sailing clubs. Annual regatta and sea-wall walks. The famous clock tower dates from 1877. www.visitmaldondistrict.co.uk

17.01

Depart to London Fenchurch Street train station

09.45 Depart for Seal Spotting and Bird Spotting Trip on the Lady Essex 12.00 Lunch in Burnham

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ESSEX CULTURAL ITINERARY

One-Day Visit

15.00 Afternoon Tea at Castle House 15.40 Depart for Dedham Art & Craft Centre

09.00 Depart London Liverpool Street train station

15.50 Arrive at Dedham Art & Craft Centre

09.46 Arrive Colchester train station and transfer to Firstsite Gallery 10.00 Arrive at Firstsite Gallery Firstsite, Colchester This breathtaking new art gallery is designed by Rafael Vinoly Architects and its stunning architecture and forthcoming collections are sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. Set to open to the public in September 2011, it will feature inspiring exhibitions, innovative learning programmes, a resource centre, conference facilities, a café and restaurant. www.firstsite.uk.net

Dedham Art & Craft Centre, Dedham Housed in a converted church in this popular village, the centre exudes historic charm and is the perfect place to visit, shop and eat. Three floors showcase the work of more than 30 artisans and the inspired buying skills of specialist retailers www.dedhamartandcraftcentre.co.uk 16.30 Depart for Colchester train station 17.03 Depart for London Liverpool Street train station 17.58 Arrive at London Liverpool Street train station

12.00 Lunch at Firstsite Gallery 13.00 Depart for Dedham (Constable Country) Constable Country, Flatford and Dedham The hamlets of Flatford and Dedham are famous as the locations for many of John Constable’s best known paintings. 16th century Bridge Cottage houses an exhibition about the painter. From here you can walk along the towpath to the painter’s birthplace at Flatford Mill and Willy Lott’s Cottage (which featured in The Hay Wain).

Boats are also available for hire. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/flatford 13.30 Arrive in Dedham for guided tour incorporating the Munnings Collection The Munnings Collection, Dedham Castle House in Dedham Vale is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty, at the heart of 'Constable Country'. The Collection of paintings and sculptures contained within the house are an ongoing celebration of the life and work of the Artist Sir Alfred Munnings, KVCO, PRA, who lived at this unique setting for over 40 years from 1919 until his death in 1959. He called it 'the house of my dreams'.

Famous for his racehorse and equestrian paintings, many consider his best works were prior to this period, when between 1898 and 1920 he recorded the English rural scene, particularly East Anglia. www.siralfredmunnings.co.uk

56

Two-Day Visit Day One 08.59 Depart London Liverpool Street train station 10.00 Arrive Leigh-on-Sea train station 10.15

Leigh Art Trail

Leigh-on-Sea Art Trail The cobbled streets and clapboard cottages of Leigh’s old towns are home to many practising artists, craftsmen, potters and photographer, whose works are celebrated during the annual Leigh Art Trail. You may see them at work during the year, while galleries throughout the town specialise in local talent and stage regular exhibitions. www.leigharttrail.co.uk 12.15

Lunch at Simply Seafood restaurant at Leigh-on-Sea

13.15

Visit to Leigh Heritage Centre and Plumbs Cottage

14.15

Travel to Westcliff on Sea

Index

ESSEX CULTURAL ITINERARY 14.30 Visit to Beecroft Art Gallery Beecroft Art Gallery, Westcliff-on-Sea The Beecroft Art Gallery is home to one of the finest collections of art in the county.

Consisting of some 2000 works, the collection includes pictures by Constable and Rossetti. Works are rotated to ensure that there will normally be at least part of the permanent collection on display, in addition to any contemporary exhibitions currently running. www.beecroft-art-gallery.co.uk 15.15

Afternoon Tea in Westcliff on Sea

16.00 Travel to Osea Island Osea Island Osea is an exclusive private island enclosed by 6.4km of beaches and coastline. With an abundance of wildlife and rare birds, the island still maintains a special ambience best described as un-spoilt, and tranquil. www.oseaisland.co.uk

Constable Country, Flatford and Dedham The hamlets of Flatford and Dedham are famous as the locations for many of John Constable’s best known paintings. Sixteenth century Bridge Cottage houses an exhibition about the painter. From here you can walk along the towpath to the painter’s birthplace at Flatford Mill and Willy Lott’s Cottage (which featured in The Hay Wain). Boats are also available for hire. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/flatford 13.30 Arrive in Dedham for guided tour incorporating the Munnings Collection The Munnings Collection, Dedham Castle House in Dedham Vale is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty, at the heart of 'Constable Country'. The Collection of paintings and sculptures contained within the house are an ongoing celebration of the life and work of the Artist Sir Alfred Munnings, KVCO, PRA, who lived at this unique setting for over 40 years from 1919 until his death in 1959. He called it 'the house of my dreams'.

19.00 Dinner at Osea Island

Famous for his racehorse and equestrian paintings, many consider his best works were prior to this period, when between 1898 and 1920 he recorded the English rural scene, particularly East Anglia. www.siralfredmunnings.co.uk

Day Two

15.00 Afternoon Tea at Castle House

08.45 Depart Osea Island

15.40 Depart for Dedham Art & Craft Centre

10.00 Arrive at firstsite Gallery

15.50 Arrive at Dedham Art & Craft Centre

Firstsite, Colchester This breathtaking new art gallery is designed by Rafael Vinoly Architects and its stunning architecture and forthcoming collections are sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. Set to open to the public in September 2011, it will feature inspiring exhibitions, innovative learning programmes, a resource centre, conference facilities, a café and restaurant. www.firstsite.uk.net

Dedham Art & Craft Centre, Dedham Housed in a converted church in this popular village, the Centre exudes historic charm and is the perfect place to visit, shop and eat. Three floors showcase the work of more than 30 artisans and the inspired buying skills of specialist retailers www.dedhamartandcraftcentre.co.uk

12.00 Lunch at firstsite Gallery

16.30 Depart for Colchester train station 17.03 Depart for London Liverpool Street train station 17.58 Arrive at London Liverpool Street train station

13.00 Depart for Dedham

Index

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ESSEX CULTURAL ITINERARY

Three-Day Visit

Day Two 08.45 Depart Osea Island

Day One

10.00 Arrive at Firstsite Gallery

08.59 Depart London Liverpool Street train station

Firstsite, Colchester This breathtaking new art gallery is designed by Rafael Vinoly Architects and its stunning architecture and forthcoming collections are sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. Set to open to the public in September 2011, it will feature inspiring exhibitions, innovative learning programmes, a resource centre, conference facilities, a café and restaurant. www.firstsite.uk.net

10.00 Arrive Leigh-on-Sea train station 10.15

Leigh Art Trail

Leigh-on-Sea Art Trail The cobbled streets and clapboard cottages of Leigh’s old towns are home to many practising artists, craftsmen, potters and photographer, whose works are celebrated during the annual Leigh Art Trail. You may see them at work during the year, while galleries throughout the town specialise in local talent and stage regular exhibitions. www.leigharttrail.co.uk 12.15

Lunch at Simply Seafood restaurant at Leigh-on-Sea

13.15

Visit to Leigh Heritage Centre and Plumbs Cottage

14.15

Travel to Westcliff on Sea

14.30 Visit to Beecroft Art Gallery Beecroft Art Gallery, Westcliff-on-Sea The Beecroft Art Gallery is home to one of the finest collections of art in the county.

Consisting of some 2000 works, the collection includes pictures by Constable and Rossetti. Works are rotated to ensure that there will normally be at least part of the permanent collection on display, in addition to any contemporary exhibitions currently running. www.beecroft-art-gallery.co.uk 15.15

Afternoon Tea in Westcliff on Sea

16.00 Travel to Osea Island Osea Island Osea is an exclusive private island enclosed by 6.4km of beaches and coastline. With an abundance of wildlife and rare birds, the island still maintains a special ambience best described as un-spoilt, and tranquil. www.oseaisland.co.uk

12.00 Lunch at Firstsite Gallery 13.00 Depart for Dedham Constable Country, Flatford and Dedham The hamlets of Flatford and Dedham are famous as the locations for many of John Constable’s best known paintings. Sixteenth century Bridge Cottage houses an exhibition about the painter. From here you can walk along the towpath to the painter’s birthplace at Flatford Mill and Willy Lott’s Cottage (which featured in The Hay Wain). Boats are also available for hire. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/flatford 13.30 Arrive in Dedham for guided tour incorporating the Munnings Collection The Munnings Collection, Dedham Castle House in Dedham Vale is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty, at the heart of 'Constable Country'. The Collection of paintings and sculptures contained within the house are an ongoing celebration of the life and work of the Artist Sir Alfred Munnings, KVCO, PRA, who lived at this unique setting for over 40 years from 1919 until his death in 1959. He called it 'the house of my dreams'.

Famous for his racehorse and equestrian paintings, many consider his best works were prior to this period, when between 1898 and 1920 he recorded the English rural scene, particularly East Anglia. www.siralfredmunnings.co.uk 15.00 Afternoon Tea at Castle House

19.00 Dinner at Osea Island

15.40 Depart for Dedham Art & Craft Centre 15.50 Arrive at Dedham Art & Craft Centre

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Index

ESSEX CULTURAL ITINERARY Dedham Art & Craft Centre, Dedham Housed in a converted church in this popular village, the Centre exudes historic charm and is the perfect place to visit, shop and eat. Three floors showcase the work of more than 30 artisans and the inspired buying skills of specialist retailers Website: www.dedhamartandcraftcentre.co.uk

13.00 Lunch at Audley End House and Gardens

16.30 Depart for Maison Talbooth

09.45 Visit to Saffron Walden Fry Art Gallery

Harlow Sculpture Trail, Harlow A collection of sculptures of national significance are sited throughout the town. In the main squares and precincts, in numerous public buildings and at several schools, sculptures by artists, both famous and lesser known, are to be found. Henry Moore's Family Group looks out from the foyer of the Civic Centre onto the Water Gardens where Elisabeth Frink's Boar stands. Close by, in the town centre, are works by Ralph Brown, F.E.McWiliam and Lynn Chadwick.

Fry Art Gallery, Saffron Walden Unique collection of work by 20th century artists who have lived in and around Great Barfield and Saffron Walden, with significant contemporary works to demonstrate the area’s continuing artistic tradition. www.fryartgallery.org

Many Harlow people have watched and participated in the installation, unveiling and periodic re-siting of these works. Harlow's sculpture collection has become as much part of the social history and human geography of the town as its housing, public buildings and open spaces. www.visitharlow.com/places-to-visit--things-to-do/harlow-sculpture-collection

10.30 Travel to Saffron Walden Museum

15.30 Depart for London Liverpool Street train station

19.00 Dinner at Le Talbooth

Day Three 08.30 Depart for Saffron Walden

Saffron Walden Museum Saffron Walden Museum opened in 1835. With wide-ranging collections, from moccasins and mummy cases to mammoth tusks and Wallace the lion, it still contains much to "stand awhile and admire". This award-winning, "friendly, family-size museum" is open 363 days a year. Collections cover the human and natural history of north-west Essex, from ancient times to the present day, and many other wonderful objects from the wider world. www.saffronwaldenmuseum.org 11.15

Travel to Audley End House and Gardens

11.30

Arrive at Audley End House and Gardens

14.00 Depart for Harlow 14.40 Arrive in Harlow 14.45 Harlow Sculpture Trail

16.01

Arrive London Liverpool Street train station

Leigh-on-sea Essex Coast

Audley End House Step back in time and watch Victorian life come to life before your eyes at Audley End. An unforgettable day out, you can experience what life was like at one of England's grandest stately homes. Stroll through the stunning pastoral parklands designed by 'Capability' Brown, explore the formal garden and organic Kitchen Garden or try your hand at working in the Victorian Service Wing. www.english-heritage.org.uk/audley-end-house-and-gardens Index

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SURREY 3-DAY ITINERARY Surrey, just 15 miles outside central London but a world away; with history, gardens, heritage, family fun, superb hotels and restaurants, and experiences this is the perfect place to visit whether you have one day or several.

Day One Morning Take a train from London Waterloo down to Guildford, or take the A3 out of London straight down to Guildford. The train is approximately 40 minutes and by car 1 hour.

Arrive in historic Guildford, the county town of Surrey. Here you can visit the Guildhall one of the oldest buildings from the 16th/17th centuries. Further up the High Street is Abbot’s Hospital, built in 1619 as an almshouse took look after the elderly in the community. This has remained so for the last 400 years, and the residents open the doors for guided tours. For a little history then Guildford Museum is the place to visit, or for local arts and crafts exhibitions the Guildford House Gallery. The High Street is the main part of the town, as a cobbled street it is full of fascinating buildings which now house some fantastic retailers. So if it’s shopping you need this is the place to be. To take a more relaxed visit, a short trip to the ruined Castle, or perhaps a trip on one of the Guildford Boat House trips on the River Wey.

Afternoon As you leave Guildford, going south on the A3 you will pass the Cathedral, a new cathedral built within the last century. This gives impressive views across the town and surrounding countryside. Just a couple of miles south of Guildford is Watts Gallery, a nationally important gallery which has just re-opened after an £11m restoration project. This is a gallery built and owned by the Victorian artist G F Watts, and contains a great proportion of his works. This is also a great place for an afternoon tea!

A little further down the road is Loseley Park, a family home of the More-Molyneux’s for over 500 years, this is still family owned and run and is a fine example of Elizabethan architecture. With walled gardens and large estate this is perfect to see how the wealthy lived hundreds of years ago.

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Loseley Park Surrey Index

SURREY 3-DAY ITINERARY Evening

Day Three

Back to Guildford the evening and the choice is yours! For acclaimed theatre, the Yvonne Arnaud theatre has a year round programme of superb productions. For lively events G Live the new entertainment venue in Guildford has comedian nights, pop-bands and other music. In addition are a huge selection of restaurants, from Indian, Thai to Italian, English fine dining and Argentinian!

Morning

For bed, there again is a great selection, the Radisson Edwardian is a superb 4 star hotel on the High Street, a family owned hotel is The Mandolay, or for extra-ordinary service the boutique guesthouse, The Asperion.

Day Two Morning Drive along the Hogs Back, A31 to Farnham, on a good day you can see the stunning views both north and south for up to 15 miles in each direction. For those wanting a tasty stop before going into Farnham, our next stop, pull in at The Hogs Back Brewery at Tongham for a quick half! Then on to Farnham a fantastic example of a Georgian market town. A stroll up to see the magnificent Castle and Keep and then a wander back into town for a light lunch.

Afternoon After leaving Farnham, perhaps it’s a visit to the 5-star Pennyhill Park in Bagshot to visit the Spa or if the weather is good a trip to Savil Gardens at Egham. A Royal Landscape garden this is a beautiful garden and the perfect place to wander and relax.

Evening For an evening meal and to bed The Runnymede on Thames is a superb hotel, or if you didn’t go to the theatre the night before The New Victoria theatre in Woking has almost nightly productions or perhaps it’s a visit to their superb cinema equipped with 3D. As an independent cinema there are often unusual screenings. With several restaurants and the Holiday Inn within walking distance or it may be a short 15-minute drive to the Brooklands Hotel situated right in the middle of the historic race track.

Index

Either awake overlooking Brooklands race track or drive from Runnymede or Woking to Brooklands for a morning of fun and excitement. The historic Brooklands race track site is undergoing a revival, the Brooklands Museum which looks at the motor racing and aviation history of the site has many examples of the early cars and motorbikes which used to travel around this, the first purpose built race track in the world. As leaders in early aviation and part of the Concorde development it now houses one of the original Concordes for people to view.

For actual hands on thrills a stop at Mercedes-Benz World, this showroom come museum and car tracks allows visitors hands on driving experiences. Following lunch at either of these venues or the hotel its down to Boxhill about 30 minutes drive away.

Afternoon Boxhill an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty situated between Leatherhead and Dorking on the A24. One of the highest points in Surrey this superb area of the Surrey Hills gives fantastic views south, plus endless walks through the woods and grassland.

Surrey is the most wooded county in England and the Surrey Hills stretch from Farnham through to Boxhill and further east. About two miles from Boxhill is Denbies Wine Estate, the largest in the UK it recently won an international wine award for its Rose wine. Here you can take a trip around the estate and see how they make the wine.

Evening Leaving Denbies and continuing on the A24 you will just miss Dorking market town, but continue on the A25 towards Reigate, another perfect example of a Georgian town there are plenty of places to eat, or alternatively if there is a race on then it’s a trip down to Lingfield Race Courses for some horse racing and a stay in the luxury hotel which overlooks the racecourse.

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WINDSOR & ETON DORNEY 3-DAY ROYAL ITINERARY The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead is home to many different and exciting Royal occasions. From equestrian events like polo and racing at Ascot to the Changing of the Guard and carriage rides in Windsor Great Park, the Royal Borough offers an unforgettable experience.

Day One Morning It’s easy to get to Windsor with two main London stations serving the Royal Borough.

Depart from London Paddington (changing at Slough) and arrive In Windsor& Eton Central station in less than 30 minutes. Or depart from London Waterloo direct to Windsor & Eton Riverside in less than one hour.

Visit Windsor Castle Windsor is home to the Queen and a visit to the Castle and seeing the Changing of the Guard is one of the highlights of a visit to Windsor. Windsor Castle is the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world. www.royalcollection.org.uk

Afternoon Tour Eton College Enjoy a Guided Tour of Eton College, founded in 1440 by Henry VI it has become one of the most exclusive schools in the world the ancient desks and benches still bear the graffiti of generations of former pupils! Both Princes William and Harry attended Eton as well many past and the current Prime minister, David Cameron. www.etoncollege.com

Evening Evensong at St. George’s Chapel End your day in Windsor where it began with Evensong at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle. As the chapel of Windsor Castle St George’s is one of the most beautiful ecclesiastical buildings in England and the burial place of ten monarchs including Henry VIII and his favourite wife Jane Seymour. www.stgeorges-windsor.org

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Windsor Castle Windsor Index

WINDSOR & ETON DORNEY 3-DAY ROYAL ITINERARY

Day Two

Day Three

Morning

Morning

Discover The Savill Garden Part of Windsor Great Park, the Savill Garden is one of Britain’s ornamental gardens.

The contemporary rose garden was opened by the Queen in 2010 and features 2500 varieties including William and Catherine Roses! The Golden Jubilee garden was opened by the Queen to celebrate her Golden Jubilee.

Stroll around Windsor Start the day with a short stroll around the Guildhall and Castle Hill – the oldest part of the town. The Guildhall is where in 2005 HRH Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall were married in a civil ceremony followed eight months later by rock royalty Elton John and partner David Furnish in one of the first civil partnership ceremonies.

Grab lunch in the architecturally award winning Savill building before heading off on a carriage ride through the Great Park. www.theroyallandscape.co.uk

Afternoon

Afternoon Carriage ride through the Royal Landscape Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through The Royal Landscape, Windsor Great Park to see hidden areas of colour and interest throughout the year. The carriage was previously used by the Late Lt. Col Sir John Miller – Her Majesty the Queen's Equerry and Horsemaster for 26 years. www.ascotcarriages.co.uk

Evening Dine out in style Dining out in the Royal Borough is a highly rated and most palatable experience. It covers the only restaurant in Windsor to be supplied by the Royal Farm shop to the 16th century village of Bray, which has more Michelin starred restaurants in 457m than anywhere else in the country.

Walk the walk Follow the Long Walk from the backdoor of Windsor Castle to the Copper Horse at Snow Hill. Created by Charles II, this three mile long double avenue of elm trees is a ‘must see’ during a visit to Windsor. Legend has it that Henry VIII stood on Snow Hill awaiting the news of Anne Boleyn’s execution.

The Duke of Edinburgh could often be seen horse carriage driving along this route and it has been known to see the Queen on horseback too.

Evening Enjoy the Theatre Royal Windsor Some of theatre’s greatest names come to the Theatre Royal Windsor, as they have since it opened in 1910. Producer Bill Kenwright treats audiences to new productions before they transfer to London's West End or go off on tour around the country. The Queen and almost all the Royal family have seen a performance here. www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk

Heston Blumenthal of The Fat Duck has been described as a culinary alchemist for his innovative style of cuisine. www.thefatduck.co.uk. The Waterside restaurant with rooms has been serving inspirational French cuisine since 1972. Owned by the celebrated Roux père et fils, and nowadays run by Alain Roux, the Waterside is renowned across the globe as a leading light in the world of gastronomy www.waterside-inn.co.uk. The Duke of Edinburgh recently celebrated his 90th Birthday at the restaurant.

Index

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WINDSOR & ETON DORNEY 3-DAY CYCLE, WALK AND CRUISE ITINERARY Get away from it all and sample the tranquil setting of the River Thames, accessible on foot, by bike and boat. Be a part of 2012 now and experience an Olympic and Paralympic venue, walk where decades of Royals have walked and dine in an array of award winning restaurants and pubs.

Day One Morning It’s easy to get to Windsor with two main London stations serving the Royal Borough.

Depart from London Paddington (changing at Slough) and arrive In Windsor & Eton Central station in less than 30 minutes. Or depart from London Waterloo direct to Windsor & Eton Riverside in less than one hour.

There is no better way to explore the River Thames than on foot, by bicycle or boat.

And in the Royal Borough you can do all three.

Meander through Eton Start your Journey on bike from Windsor and Eton bridge. Tolls were paid to go over the bridge as well as under it until 1898. The bridge is now pedestrian and has great views of Windsor Castle. Spend the morning in Eton. Eton High Street is known for its antique shops, art galleries and of course Eton College one of the most famous schools in the World.

Afternoon Visit Dorney Court After a spot of lunch in one of Eton’s many cafes or pubs head along the Thames path to Dorney Court (May/June only). Built in 1440 and owned by the same family for over 400 years, Dorney Court is famous for its honey and the first pineapple in England was grown here.

Experience Dorney Lake Our next stop is Dorney Lake the venue of the Kayaking and Rowing events for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Within Dorney Lake you can also visit the Park and Arboretum and see Windsor Castle through the ‘Millennium Lime Avenue’.

Eton College Eton 64

Index

WINDSOR & ETON DORNEY 3-DAY CYCLE, WALK AND CRUISE ITINERARY Evening

Day Three

Dine Out in Bray A pretty riverside parish with a three-mile frontage on the Thames between Maidenhead and Windsor, Bray has become a very popular stopping place for visitors to the Royal Borough as it features a wealth of cottages and houses and attractive riverbank properties.

Morning

Bray is also home to two three star Michelin restaurants as well as a few traditional pubs and restaurants.

Day Two Morning Admire the bridge Today you will explore the Thames on foot and by boat. The river takes you on to Maidenhead and the infamous Boulters Lock. Edwardian Maidenhead had something of a risqué reputation! The town was a place of recreation for members of the Guards Club, whose lady friends ‘the Gaiety Girls’ lodged close by. In reaching Maidenhead fans of Isambard Kingdom Brunel can marvel at his famous brick-built Sounding Arch (1838).

Afternoon Cruise along the Thames At Boulters Lock stop for a spot of afternoon tea and visit Raymill Island. The Island has a restful atmosphere broken only by the roar of the weir. Step aboard a boat from Boulters Lock to Cookham and gently cruise along the stretch of river known as the ‘Cliveden Reach’it is the most beautiful stretch of the River Thames, particularly in Autumn.

Visit a National Trust property Take a short taxi ride to Cliveden House with 152ha of National Trust formal gardens and woodland. A country retreat on a grand scale. Cliveden's magnificent gardens and breathtaking views have been admired for centuries. Visited by virtually every British monarch since George I, in the early 20th century it became home to Waldorf and Nancy Astor.

Afternoon Learn more about Stanley Spencer Back to Cookham village to complete the rest of your journey on foot. The Stanley Spencer gallery is dedicated to the life works of Sir Stanley Spencer. Follow the Cookham walk and view the settings that gave Sir Stanley inspiration for many of his famous paintings.

Evening Relax in Marlow Finish your day in the beautiful river town of Marlow. You are spoilt for choice on where to dine and stay. The Macdonald Compleat Angler offers a riverside retreat and no better place to put your feet up at the end of three days along the river.

It’s easy access back to London by train from Marlow taking as little as 50 minutes to return to Paddington Station.

Evening Dine out in Cookham Cookham provides the perfect setting for dinner with over 15 restaurants to choose from in one small high street, some dating back to the 15th century.

Index

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BATH ROYAL SPA 3-DAY ITINERARY Bath is the only entire city in the UK to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to some of the most impressive architectural sites in the country. It is also the only place in the UK with natural thermal springs.

Bath is only 1.5 hours travel from London.

Day One Morning Depart from London Paddington to Bath by train (1.5 hours).

Afternoon Pump Room – Where Bath’s spa water is drawn for drinking. An 18th Century neoclassical salon and now a restaurant.

Visit the Roman Baths – around Britain’s only hot spring, the Romans built a magnificent temple and bathing complex that still flows with hot water. Walk on ancient stone pavements, see the Great Bath and discover artefacts that are more than 2,000 years old.

Evening Bath’s illuminated buildings – Holburne Museum, Bath Abbey.

The Great Bath Bath, Somerset 66

Index

BATH ROYAL SPA 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two Morning Bath’s architecture – Royal Crescent, Circus, Pulteney Bridge, Great Pulteney Street, Bath Abbey area, general Bath street views.

Afternoon Bath Abbey – Bath Abbey is one of the last great medievel churches in England. The Tower Tour offers fantastic panoramic views across the city.

Sally Lunn’s – set in one of the oldest houses in Bath, Sally Lunn’s is home to the famous Sally Lunn bun, a local delicacy.

Evening Bath nightlife – theatre, bars, entertainment venues.

Day Three Morning Thermae Bath Spa - Using the warm, mineral-rich waters which the Celts and Romans enjoyed over 2000 years ago, Thermae Bath Spa is Britain’s original and only natural thermal Spa. Thermae combines modern and ancient spa buildings and its piece de resistance is its roof-top pool with views across the city of Bath.

Afternoon Alexandra Park – For panoramic views across the city of Bath and surrounding countryside.

No. 1 Royal Crescent - Number One was the first house to be built in the Royal Crescent and is a magnificently restored and authentically furnished town house creates a wonderful picture of fashionable life in 18th century Bath.

Evening Bath’s dining – Bath has a vibrant foodie scene with a huge number of independent restaurants.

Index

Thermae Bath Spa Bath, Somerset 67

BIRMINGHAM 3-DAY ITINERARY – FOOD & DRINK

Day One Morning A train from London Euston to Birmingham takes less than 90 minutes.

Urban Coffee Company The Big Peg, Warstone Lane, Jewellery Quarter, B18 6NF Tel: 0121 233 1599 Web: www.urbancoffee.co.uk The Urban Coffee Company is located in the business districts of major cities outside London and provides coffee via its cafe emporiums and tasting club. Urban Coffee’s whole life revolves around creating a unique coffee experience for the customer, it goes without saying that the coffee is the best this side of the moon.

Afternoon 24 Carrotts Market The Big Peg, Warstone Lane, Jewellery Quarter, B18 6NF Web: www.24carrots.org.uk/index.php Jewellery Quarter Birmingham

A group of local people have come together to set up and and run the “24 Carrots” Jewellery Quarter (JQ) Farmers’ Markets in the Big Peg Car park from 4th July 2009.

Each market will consist of 20-30 stalls and be sited in front of the Big Peg and has a distinctive community feel.

Evening Simpsons Restaurant 20 Highfield Road, Edgbaston, B15 3DU Tel: 0121 454 3434 Web: www.simpsonsrestaurant.co.uk Michelin-star winning Simpsons Restaurant is able to source from some of the finest regional suppliers based in the Midlands to satisfy the demands of our discerning customers. The restaurant’s chef brigade, who love to experiment with new flavours, texture and flavour combinations, pride themselves on creating the perfect seasonal dishes.

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Day Two Morning Soul Food Project The Victoria, 48 John Bright Street, Birmingham, B1 1BN Tel: 0121 633 9439 Web: www.soulfoodproject.co.uk Soul Food Project was formed in 2010 by Matthew Beck and Carl Finn, who between have 10 years plus experience in the food, drink, music and hospitality trade. The whole idea was based around the pop up restaurant revolution where chefs and cooks with great ideas / concepts were taking over the most bizarre spaces and hosting one off restaurant projects.

Index

BIRMINGHAM 3-DAY ITINERARY – FOOD & DRINK Afternoon

Afternoon

Lunch At Warehouse Café 54-57 Allison Street, Birmingham, B5 5TH Tel: 0121 633 0261 Web: www.thewarehousecafe.com

Balti Triangle

54-57 Allison Street has played host to a vegetarian restaurant for over 30 years – from humble beginnings as a soup kitchen, through Molly’s successful stint as The Amazon Café in the 80s and 90s to our offering today. We’re proud of where we’ve grown from, and happy to still share our home (and many of our values) with Birmingham Friends of the Earth. The Warehouse Café is unique in the city in more than one way. Nestled between the newly refurbished Moor Street Station and Bullring shopping centre, and old industrial Digbeth – we are part of both new and old Birmingham.

Welcome to the home of the balti. Birmingham’s Balti Triangle offers an unparalleled selection of Indian restaurants and stands out as one of the country’s ‘don’t miss’ experiences.

Imran’s Restaurant 262-266 Ladypool Road, Sparkbrook, B12 8JU Tel: 0121 449 1370 Web: www.imrans.com

Evening

Imran's Restaurant, situated on Ladypool Rd, Sparkbrook, serves outstanding cuisine that is made with authentic spices and to traditional menus. The owner, Mr M. Afzal Butt is a well-known local figure and has many years experience in the restaurant trade. Mr Butt came to the United Kingdom in the late 1960s and, by 1970, was involved in the Ghazala Restaurant on Stoney Lane, Sparkbrook. In 1977, he opened the Butt Sweet Centre and Restaurant and, in 1981 moved onto open Imran's, named after his eldest son.

Cocktail Demonstration At Gingers Bar 11 Newhall Street, Birmingham, B3 3NY Tel: 0121 200 1588 Web: www.purnellsrestaurant.com/gingers-bar

ADIL’S 353-355 Ladypool Road, Balsall Heath, B12 8LA Tel: 0121 449 0335 Web: www.adilbalti.co.uk

Michelin Star chef Glynn Purnell brings a touch of panache to Birmingham's bar culture with the launch of this latest venture, operating alongside the original concept of The Asquith restaurant. An exquisite cocktail bar and restaurant destination in the heart of Birmingham’s thriving business district and shopping area, Ginger's Bar is an elegant retreat for people to enjoy and unwind.

Established in 1977 it was at these very premises that the Balti method of cooking was introduced to Britain. The Authentic Balti served at Adil’s have been created with an exotic collection of herbs and spices distinctively blended in the traditional ways of Northern Kashmir. Our menu has also been modified to suit the different tastes of our ever increasing clientele, from Kurma for those who prefer a mild dish to the Masala for the more experienced Balti eaters.

Day Three

Evening

Morning

Old Joint Stock Pub And Theatre 4 Temple Row West, Birmingham, B2 5NY Tel: 0121 200 0946 Web: www.oldjointstocktheatre.co.uk

Interview With Michelin Star-Winning Chef From Birmingham Glynn Purnell – Head Chef at Purnell’s Luke Tipping – Executive Chef Director at Simpsons Richard Turner – Chef Patrons at Turners of Harborne

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Step through the imposing front doors to discover one of the grandest pubs in Birmingham's City Centre, where quality is the by-word. Not only do we serve the finest ales and wines, but also a selection of the finest pub food - including our trademark quality pies - made on the premises, daily. The Old Joint Stock also has a theatre, which hosts music nights, comedy gigs, one-off evenings and a whole range of plays, from the classics to new works, locally written productions to old favourites.

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BIRMINGHAM 3-DAY ITINERARY – SPORT

Day One Morning A train from London Euston to Birmingham takes less than 90 minutes.

Enjoy A Round At The Belfry The Belfry, Wishaw, Sutton Coldfield, B76 9PR Tel: 0300 500 0405 Web: www.thebelfry.co.uk As the UK headquarters of the PGA and spiritual home of the Ryder Cup, the noble game and The Belfry are inextricably linked. The Belfry has become synonymous with golf and a Mecca for both professional and amateur players. Its three stunning courses, sculpted from 222ha of lush North Warwickshire countryside, have provoked some of the most dramatic moments in the history of the sport. The Belfry is the ultimate venue for golf.

Afternoon Tour Villa Park, One Of England’s Most Famous Stadiums Villa Park, Trinity Road, Birmingham, B6 6HE Tel: 0121 327 2299 Web: www.avfc.co.uk/page/StadiumTours How do you fancy looking out on Villa Park's hallowed turf? Or would you love to check out the first team dressing room?

If the answer is yes, join us for an unforgettable day out at one of the oldest stadiums in the country and home to Aston Villa. We invite you to take a behind-the-scenes tour around the famous ground that boasts traditional heritage with state-of-the-art facilities.

Evening Meal At VMF (Villa Midlands Food) Villa Park, Trinity Road, Birmingham, B6 6HE Tel: 0121 327 2299 Web: www.avhe.co.uk/index.php/vmfvilla Villa’s VMF restaurant has continued to grow in popularity and earn critical acclaim since its opening in October 2010. The training restaurant, located in the Directors’ suite at Villa Park, has gone from strength-to-strength on the back of hosting some unique events and the launch of a new cookbook. VMF bucks the trend in using regional produce, with dishes cooked and served by youngsters from the area.

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The Belfry Birmingham Index

BIRMINGHAM 3-DAY ITINERARY – SPORT

Day Two Morning

Evening

Jewellery Quarter Tour Jewellery Quarter, Frederick Street, Birmingham, B18 3HS Tel: 0121 464 1186 Web: www.jewelleryquarter.net

Perry Barr Stadium – Greyhound Racing / Speedway Aldridge Road, Birmingham, B42 2ET Tel: 0870 840 7410 Web: www.lovethedogs.co.uk/perry-barr/home.asp

The Jewellery Quarter still makes an estimated 40 percent of all UK jewellery and with over 300 jewellery related businesses in the Quarter it is not surprising that the discerning customer can still easily access authentic Jewellery Quarter made goods.

Businesses in the Jewellery Quarter make trophies and medals for many top sporting events, including the Carling Cup – one of the Quarter’s customers is the Football Association.

On evenings throughout the year you can experience all the thrills and excitement of up to three hours of live greyhound racing at Birmingham Greyhound Stadium Perry Barr. Meanwhile, Perry Barr Stadium is also home to the Birmingham Brummies speedway team, who compete in the Elite League, the sport’s top division. Speedway motorcycles use only one gear and have no brakes!

Warstone Lane Cemetery was opened in 1848 as a burial ground for members of the Anglican Church. It was designed in Gothic style and its catacombs are well presented. Famous people buried in this Grade II registered Historic Garden include Major Harry Gem, the founder of Lawn Tennis.

Day Three

Afternoon Watch An Event At The National Indoor Arena / National Exhibition Centre NEC Group, Birmingham, B40 1NT Tel: 0121 780 4141 Web: www.necgroup.co.uk The National Indoor Arena (The NIA) and the National Exhibition Centre (The NEC) are two of the busiest large scale indoor sporting and entertainment venues in Europe.

They have welcomed visitors to over 30 different sports (including indoor rowing!).

The NIA provides a perfect home for indoor sport at every level; its Mondo athletics track is the world’s premier surface and was first used at the European Indoor Athletics in March 2007, an event that attracted a worldwide television audience of more than 160m. The NEC, meanwhile, has hosted events including Davis Cup tennis matches and Sports Personality of the Year

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All Day Test Match / County Championship Cricket At Edgbaston Stadium Warwickshire CCC, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B5 7QU Tel: 0844 847 1902 Web: www.edgbaston.com Edgbaston is a regular on the Test rota, and is England's most successful home venue.

As well as watching their fair share of Test victories, the Warwickshire county faithful have also been rewarded with a sustained spell of domestic success. The county won seven trophies between 1993 and 1997, the most successful period in their history, when such luminaries as Brian Lara and the two South African stalwarts Allan Donald and Shaun Pollock gave good service to the side.

The Stadium hosts Test Match, County Championship and the exciting Twenty20 cricket.

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BERKSHIRE, HAMPSHIRE & SURREY DISCOVER SOUTH EAST ENGLAND – 3-DAY ITINERARY South East England is ideally located near to London and is a great destination for groups, families and individuals.

The region offers a fantastic combination of rich historical sites, beautiful gardens, designer shopping outlets as well as stunning coastlines and a beautiful countryside.

Day One Morning From London/ Heathrow Travel a short way down the M25 to explore The Savill Garden, part of the Royal Landscape, a thousand acres of landscaped gardens, lakes and woodland.

Visit Windsor Castle, just 15 minutes down the Long Walk and oldest castle in continuous occupation in the world and official residence of Her Majesty the Queen.

Don’t miss St George’s Chapel, one of the most beautiful ecclesiastical buildings in England.

Lunch

Afternoon Take the M4 to Reading, Berkshire, one of the largest towns in the UK and visit Reading Museum, home to Britain’s Bayeux Tapestry. Visit The Oracle Shopping Centre, an innovative family shopping and leisure centre.

Evening Overnight: Caversham Lodge B&B, Reading The Great House, Sonning Novotel Reading Centre, Reading

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Guildford Castle Guildford Index

BERKSHIRE, HAMPSHIRE & SURREY DISCOVER SOUTH EAST ENGLAND – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Afternoon

Morning

Travel on the A3 to Weybridge (30 mins) Visit Mercedes Benz World to discover the history of one of the motoring world’s iconic brands or Brooklands Museum, home of British racing, or pop into Denbies Wine Estate, the largest vineyard in England with 265 acres under vine, for a tour or sampling.

Travel along the M4 to Newbury, Berkshire. Set along the banks of the River Kennet and the Kennet and Avon Canal, it combines 17th century architecture and cobbled streets with modern delights.

Take the A343 to Highclere Castle, Hampshire, the home of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon. The 5th Earl discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun and the castle contains Egyptian antiquities. Now famous as ITV’s Downton Abbey.

Lunch at Highclere Castle

Afternoon Pick up the A34/A31to Chawton, Hampshire, home of Jane Austen, and visit the Jane Austen’s House, a 17th century house where Jane Austen lived from 1809-1817, and wrote or revised her 6 great novels. Take the A31 to Guildford.

Return to London/ Gatwick/ Heathrow.

Further information: www.visitsurrey.com www.visit-hampshire.co.uk www.visitwestberkshire.org.uk www.visitsoutheastengland.com Contact: international@tourismse.com

Evening Overnight: Ramada Hotel Asperion Mandolay Hotel

Day Three Morning Visit Guildford, Surrey and its town centre, including Guildford Castle, Museum and Cathedral.

Lunch

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Highclere Castle Berkshire 73

BRIGHTON BOHEMIAN BRIGHTON – 3-DAY ITINERARY Brighton, on England south coast just 70kms south of London is home to the cutting edge, cultural and quirky.

This incredible seaside city is a place like no other in the UK - highlights include a royal palace with the most extraordinary exterior and interior, 8 miles of beach (including its own nudist section), the largest concentration of independent shops in the UK, a body-casting studio, plus a year-round eclectic entertainment programme featuring festivals, live gigs, comedy, cabaret and burlesque performance.

Day One Morning Depart by train from St Pancras International or London Victoria and in just under an hour you will arrive at Brighton’s grand Victorian station. Walk through the bohemian North Laine area down to myhotel Brighton which is situated in the heart of the cultural quarter.

With 80 guestrooms, the hotel is a design treat - featuring beautifully curved walls accentuating the calmness and positive energy of Feng shui. Each floor of the hotel represents a different ‘chakra’ of the body. www.myhotels.com No trip to Brighton is complete without a visit to the Royal Pavilion. This spectacular palace with its Indian style exterior and Chinoiserie interior was the home of the original party prince - Prince Regent (later George IV) - the instigator of Brighton’s reputation for decadence, elegance and glamour. www.brighton-hove-rpml.org.uk/RoyalPavilion/Pages/home.aspx

Afternoon Explore the diverse mix of more than 300 independent boutiques in and around the North Laine www.northlaine.co.uk and The Lanes areas of Brighton for a totally unique shopping experience.

The Lanes is an intricate maze of twisting alleyways and home to an extraordinary mix of antiques, jewellery and famous labels.

The bohemian North Laine boasts chic vintage fashion, exotic art and kitsch quirky giftware; keep a look out for tattoo parlours, street art, and entertainers along the 74

The Lanes Brighton, East Sussex Index

BRIGHTON BOHEMIAN BRIGHTON – 3-DAY ITINERARY Evening

Day Three

Brighton’s eclectic nightlife is legendary. The city has some incredible regular club nights including “Margot’s Parties” www.margots.org - lavish parties each with a different theme where all guests get dressed up, or “Frockabilly” www.frockabilly.co.uk – a queer-run, straight-friendly, 1950s themed club.

Morning

Day Two

Go retro and enjoy a carousel ride on the seafront before hitting the rollercoaster rides and arcades on Brighton Pier. Enjoy fish and chips, popcorn and candy floss and take in the sights at the very location from which cult film classic ‘Brighton Rock’ was filmed. www.brightonpier.co.uk

Morning

Afternoon

The seafront in Brighton conjures up a funky mix of traditional seaside shops and artists studios. Head down to the lower promenade - just west of Brighton Pier - to find the Artist’s Quarter where more than a dozen artists produce and sell their work from studios within the arches. www.theartistquarter.co.uk

Visit Brighton Body Casting - the sculpting studio/gallery of celebrated local artist Jamie McCartney - and have your lips, face, hands, bust, bum, or torso made into a totally unique sculpture. Available in many materials from plaster to bronze and glass these sculptures are truly stunning creations. www.brightonbodycasting.com

Afternoon Head to Kemp Town which is the heart of the Brighton’s large lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community (LGBT) community. Kemp Town is a melting pot of independent shops offering an eclectic mix of antiques and chic design pieces.

Stop off for afternoon tea at MetroDeco www.metro-deco.com, a 1930s inspired Parisian-style tea salon.

If body casting isn’t your thing, select from a range of alternative quirky activities: try colour therapy, take a cup-cake decorating class, have a burlesque dance lesson, take a helicopter ride, learn how to wind surf, kayak and paddle board or hone your power boat cruising skills. www.visitbrighton.com/site/things-to-do/activities

Evening Return to Brighton Station to catch the train back to London Victoria or St Pancras International…exhausted and amazed!

Evening Enjoy an aperitif at one of the vibrant bars on St James’ Street in Kemp Town and see the cream of Brighton’s drag queen scene performing cabaret and karaoke.

With a vibrant club scene, the seafront in Brighton is buzzing with clubbers every night of the week. At certain times of year, you'll also find open air cinema and music on the beach.

Live the “Warholian” dream at Brighton’s legendary party ‘Stick It On’: pick four tunes you’ve been dying to share with the world and watch the crowd hit the dance floor while you enjoy your 15-minutes of fame. www.stickiton.co.uk

Brighton Pier Brighton, East Sussex Index

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BRIGHTON HISTORICAL BRIGHTON – 3-DAY ITINERARY The seaside city of Brighton & Hove located on England’s south coast is steeped in history. From a spectacular royal palace, The Royal Pavilion, to the Edwardian splendour of Preston Manor and stunning Regency architecture across the city, take a step back in time and discover the heritage of Brighton & Hove and its Royal conncections

Day One Morning Depart by train from London St Pancras (only seven minutes by tube from the Olympic Park) to Brighton and in just over an hour you will arrive at the grand Victorian station. Walk through the bohemian North Laine to the Old Steine (approx 10 minutes) and check in to the Royal York hotel where past guests include William IV and Queen Adelaide. www.royalyorkbrighton.co.uk No trip to Brighton is complete without a visit to the Royal Pavilion. This spectacular palace is one of the most iconic buildings in the UK and is located right in the heart of the city. The royal palace has an Indian exterior and a Chinese interior and was the home of the Prince Regent (later George IV) making it a key part of the city's history.

From March 2012 the Royal Pavilion is hosting a special exhibition dedicated to the life of Princess Charlotte Augusta of Wales, the only child of the Prince Regent http://www.brighton-hove-rpml.org.uk/RoyalPavilion/Pages/home.aspx

Afternoon Visit the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery followed by a behind the scenes tour of the Brighton Dome which form part of the Royal Pavilion estate. These two striking buildings were once the Prince's stables but today they house two of the city's most impressive cultural venues.

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery is a state of the art visitor attraction with dynamic and innovative galleries including fashion and style, 20th century art and design, and world art. www.brighton-hove-rpml.org.uk Brighton Dome includes three venues in one stunning building – the Concert Hall; the Corn Exchange and the Pavilion Theatre. The Brighton Dome Concert Hall hosted the Eurovision song contest in 1974 which is the year ABBA won with 'Waterloo'. www.brightondome.org 76

Royal Pavilion Brighton, East Sussex Index

BRIGHTON HISTORICAL BRIGHTON – 3-DAY ITINERARY Evening

Day Three

After dinner join a Ghost Walk of the Lanes which is the oldest, and most haunted, part of Brighton & Hove. The walk takes in much of the area’s history whilst visiting seven haunted sites. www.ghostwalkbrighton.co.uk

Morning

Day Two

This morning visit the Edwardian country house – Preston Manor. A delightful manor house which belonged to the Stanford family for over 200 years and which still has the atmosphere of an Edwardian country house giving visitors a chance to experience what life was like both upstairs and downstairs. www.brighton-hove-rpml.org.uk

Morning Brighton & Hove is a “city by the sea” so take a historical walk along the seafront.

Afternoon

Along the way visit Sea Life Brighton which has over 150 species and 60 displays and is the world's oldest aquarium as it first opened in 1872. www.visitsealife.com/brighton

Head along the seafront towards Hove, where you will find some stunning examples of Regency architecture in Brunswick Square and Adelaide Crescent.

Afterwards take a ride on the Volks Railway which is Britain's oldest electric railway as it was built in 1883. Today it runs for 2km along the top of the beach from the Aquarium Station near Brighton Pier to the Marina. www.volkselectricrailway.co.uk

The boundary between Brighton & Hove is marked by the 'Peace Statue'. The angel of peace is a memorial to Edward VII who convalesced several times in Brighton and restored the town's fashionable reputation. The design was chosen as Edward VII was known as The Peacemaker.

Of course no trip to Brighton is complete without a stroll along the iconic Brighton Pier a splendid example of Victorian architecture. Whether you simply relax on a deckchair or try your hand at the arcade games you will also want to try some fish 'n' chips before you leave. www.brightonpier.co.uk

Evening

Once off the pier head to the Brighton Fishing Museum to learn all about the city's origins as a fishing village. www.brightonfishingmuseum.org.uk

Return to Brighton Station to catch the train back to London St Pancras. NB the Olympic Park at Stratford is a 7 minute journey by high speed shuttle – the Javelin – from St Pancras Station.

Afternoon Return to the city's Cultural Quarter and visit the historic Theatre Royal Brighton. The theatre is just over 200 years old and it was the Prince Regent who gave Royal Assent for the building to be built. Take a behind the scenes tour and find out why we use the phrase 'break a leg' as a good luck gesture and also why it is considered to be unlucky to whistle in a theatre www.atgtickets.com/Brighton

Evening After dinner return to the Theatre Royal Brighton to see a West End show, a musical, comedy, drama or family show.

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Theatre Royal Brighton, East Sussex 77

BRISTOL 3-DAY ITINERARY Watch the summer skies become ablaze with colour in Bristol, the ballooning capital of Europe, when over 120 hot air balloons ascend over the city for the annual Bristol International Balloon Fiesta in August. During the fiesta weekend, take a tour of Bristol’s infamous street art scene, learn about the city’s pirating past with a guided Pirate Walk with Pirate Pete, relax over a barbecued lunch on a floating barge at Spyglass restaurant before sipping a chilled cider or local ale at Bristol’s historic Llandoger Trow pub, and don’t leave the city without a thorough mooch around Clifton Village where the iconic Suspension Bridge spans the break-taking Avon Gorge.

Day One Morning Depart from London Paddington to Bristol by train in under two hours. Bristol is a city of bridges, balloons, boats, Brunel and Banksy and a visit to this vibrant destination should embrace it all.

On arrival, check in to one of Bristol’s boutique guest houses, such as Number Thirty Eight Clifton which overlooks the Clifton Downs. Number Thirty Eight Clifton is Bristol's new townhouse accommodation. It offers 10 stylish bedrooms in a recently refurbished Georgian merchant’s house at the top of the city, boasting unbelievable views.

Enjoy the morning and lunchtime at leisure, perusing the independent shops in Clifton Village and stopping for lunch at Primrose Café, one of Bristol’s best-loved cafes and restaurants. Walk across to the impressive Clifton Suspension Bridge to take in views across south Bristol and the Avon Gorge.

Afternoon After lunch, enjoy a visit to Bristol Zoo Gardens in Clifton which recently celebrated its 175th birthday. Come face-to-face with over 400 species of exotic, endangered and adorable animals including twin Asiatic lion cubs, a family of gorillas and charismatic meerkats in the Zoo’s new state-of-the-art enclosure. Other Zoo favourites include Monkey Jungle, Reptile House, Zona Brazil, Bug World, Twilight World, and the Aquarium.

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Brunel’s SS Great Britain Bristol Index

BRISTOL 3-DAY ITINERARY From Bristol Zoo Gardens, enjoy the facilities at the Lido, including the sauna and steam room, before relaxing over a spa treatment. The Lido offers the perfect urban escape to kick off your shoes, swim in the open air pool and enjoy a range of beauty treatments.

Head back to Number Thirty Eight Clifton to refresh before heading out to dinner.

Evening Arrive at Ashton Court Estate for the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta ready for the Hot Air Balloon Mass Ascent at 6pm during which over 100 balloons will take to the skies from Ashton Court. Food and entertainment is available throughout the evening at Ashton Court.

Evening Enjoy dinner at Rockfish Grill on Whiteladies Road, Clifton. Award-winning food writer and restauranteur Mitch Tonk's Rockfish Grill & Seafood Market is all about seriously fresh fish, with the latest catch delivered each day. The majority of the fish is sourced from Brixham and is delivered to the restaurant within 12 hours of being landed, ensuring the seafood on your plate is as fresh as can be.

Day Two

Day Three Morning After breakfast at Number Thirty Eight Clifton, head to the Harbourside for a guided Pirate Walk around Bristol’s streets to learn about the city’s infamous pirating past.

After the tour, enjoy a pre-lunch pint at the Llandoger Trow which was originally built in 1664, making this historic pub one of the last timber-built buildings in all of Bristol.

There are many myths and legends surrounding the pub, of pirates and secret tunnels.

Morning After breakfast at Number Thirty Eight Clifton, head to the city centre and visit the street art project on Nelson Street called See No Evil which is the most ambitious permanent street art project ever to take place in the UK. In August 2011, the world’s leading street artists from numerous countries painted the facades of ten multi-storey buildings along Nelson Street making it one of the world's largest outdoor art exhibitions.

After a visit along Nelson Street, enjoy a ferry boat ride from the Harbourside steps and travel around Bristol’s historic Harbourside up to Brunel’s SS Great Britain.

Visitors can step back in time on board the world’s first great ocean liner and discover the true story of Victorian passengers and crew on a super-speedy two-month voyage to Australia.

Enjoy lunch at SS Great Britain’s Dockyard Café which is located alongside the historic Great Western Dockyard.

Afternoon After lunch, catch the ferry boat back from Brunel’s SS Great Britain down the Harbourside to M Shed, Bristol’s new £27m history museum which uncovers the story of the city including its trading past and wartime experiences. Designed to appeal to all family generations, the museum features a children’s area to creatively engage with history, whilst older generations can appreciate the fascinating insight into Bristol’s wartime history.

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Afternoon Enjoy a barbecued summer lunch in the heart of Bristol’s docks across the road from Llandoger Trow at Spyglass restaurant. The venue is split between a converted barge and the adjacent quayside, occupying one of Bristol's most stunning waterside settings.

After lunch, spend the afternoon at leisure, either returning to Ashton Court to enjoy the rest of the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, perusing the delights of St Nicholas Market in the city centre, getting interactive at At-Bristol the science centre, shopping at Cabot Circus, mooching up Park Street before heading into Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. Look out for one of Banksy’s most popular pieces of Bristol street art at the bottom of Park Street.

Evening Relax over dinner at Goldbrick House, a restaurant, café bar, champagne/cocktail bar, with a sun terrace and private rooms. It was converted from two Georgian houses and a Victorian factory, and looks out onto Park Street.

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BUCKINGHAMSHIRE 3-DAY ITINERARY Buckinghamshire is the perfect place to stay whilst the Games are on.

Not only are the main Games venues within easy reach but should you want to escape from the City for the day and do something a bit different. Buckinghamshire has a great selection of attractions and is ideal for exploring historic English villages, taking in stunning landscapes and sampling traditional country pubs.

Day One Morning Depart from London Paddington or Waterloo stations via train or visit by coach.

Spend the morning at Dorney Lake, the London 2012 venue for rowing and canoeing, explore the 182ha of parkland and Arboretum surrounding the lake or simply relax and watch rowers and canoeists training.

Afternoon For lunch and a leisurely afternoon visit the picturesque town of Marlow. Here you can enjoy a light lunch or meal prepared from local produce before sampling the many boutiques and independent shops or simply enjoy a drink overlooking the stunning River Thames.

Evening Enjoy an evening in the historic old town of Amersham, where a variety of restaurants and traditional English pubs are so plentiful you simply won’t know where to choose!

Marlow and River Thames Buckinghamshire 80

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BUCKINGHAMSHIRE 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two Morning Start your second day with a visit to Stoke Mandeville Stadium, the birthplace of the Paralympics, to learn the history of the modern Paralympics.

Afternoon Just a few minutes from Stoke Mandeville is the county town of Aylesbury, here you can stop for lunch before spending the afternoon exploring the old town, shopping in the modern centres or taking a visit to the Bucks County Museum.

Evening Staying in Aylesbury for a meal at one of the eclectic restaurants before enjoying an evening at the state-of-the-art Aylesbury Waterside Theatre.

Day Three Morning Day three commences with a visit to the world renowned Waddesdon Manor. Built by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild to display his superb collection of art treasures and entertain the fashionable world, the house and grounds are captivating. Have lunch in one of the two restaurants.

Afternoon Perfect in any weather, Stowe Landscape Gardens will delight all ages. A beautiful creation of the 18th Century, Stowe has a number of enchanting trails to follow or you can explore the extensive grounds for yourselves.

Evening Complete your day with an evening in the historic military town of Buckingham. Here you will find the Old Gaol dominating the main street and surrounded by restaurants and cafes.

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Stoke Mandeville Stadium Buckinghamshire 81

CAMBRIDGE 3-DAY ITINERARY Cambridge is an architectural jewel of a City, discover over 1000 years of beautiful architecture, learn why it is home to one of the world’s leading Universities and how its students have changed the world and effected your lives.

Cambridge, however, is not a museum, it’s a thriving City with a reputation for hi-tech business, has a diverse population and an eclectic mix of restaurants, events, shows and concerts.

Day One Morning Depart from London King’s Cross to Cambridge by train in just 1 hour. Start your visit to Cambridge by seeing something truly beautiful. Book a guided tour where your Blue Badge Guide will show you the best sights including the architectural jewel that is King’s College Chapel.

Afternoon Immerse yourself in an afternoon of arts and culture. Don’t miss Kettle’s Yard, one of the country’s finest contemporary galleries.

Evening Enjoy a night at the Arts Theatre, one of the region’s liveliest and most exciting venues, hosting a varied programme of drama, dance, music, comedy and pantomime, as well as many shows prior to and direct from the West End.

Punting along The Backs, King’s College Cambridge 82

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CAMBRIDGE 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two Morning Enjoy a day on the river, take a chauffeured punt tour of the Cambridge “Backs”, one of the most beautiful stretches of river in the country.

Afternoon Back on the punt for the tranquil journey through Grantchester river meadows, ending with afternoon tea underneath the apple trees at the Orchard, famous haunt of poets, artists and Royals.

Evening Relax and watch the sun go down on the rooftop terrace of the Varsity Hotel or check out who’s on at the Corn Exchange, Cambridge’s concert venue.

Day Three Morning The Fitzwilliam Museum is a must see. The Museum houses world-class collections of works of art and antiquities spanning centuries and civilisations.

Afternoon Enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the University of Cambridge Botanic Garden, where you can discover plants from all over the world in 40 acres of beautiful gardens and glasshouses.

Evening Discover the spooky side of Cambridge, book on to one of the City’s evening Ghost Tours and prepare to be scared.

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Interior of hothouse at Cambridge University Cambridge 83

CHESHIRE 3-DAY CHESTER ITINERARY Chester is s beautiful city full of history, from Roman walls and amphitheatre to medieval two-tiered shopping galleries, the 5-star Chester Grosvenor to the Eastgate clock there’s so much to see and do.

Day One Morning Depart from London Euston to Chester by train. Chester is just two hours from London by train.

Visit Chester Cathedral Originally built as an abbey for Benedictine monks, walk around the exterior and see the gurgling gargoyles and fanciful birds that dance around the perimeter, guarding the treasure that lies within. The Cathedral grounds are the perfect location for a picnic on a sunny day.

If you fancy a look inside this stunning building then admission charges apply. www.chestercathedral.com Enjoy lunch in the Cathedral’s Refectory Café or one of the many tea shops or pubs in the city.

Afternoon Walk the Walls Take a gentle 3.5km stroll around the most complete walls in Britain. Affording views of the towers and Eastgate Clock, the Amphitheatre and racecourse, a perfect way to see the city.

Stop off at the famous Amphitheatre, pose for a picture by the Eastgate Clock and take in the stunning views over the oldest racecourse in the country.

Evening Enjoy a delicious evening meal at one of Chester’s finest restaurants; choose from Michael Caine’s Fine Dining Restaurant on the 5th floor of the Abode Hotel with stunning views across Chester Racecourse and the Welsh mountains. Or, Joseph Benjamin an independently owned restaurant and deli serving the most delicious seasonal, locally sourced menu. www.michaelcaines.com www.josephbenjamin.co.uk 84

Eastgate Clock Chester Index

CHESHIRE 3-DAY CHESTER ITINERARY

Day Two

Day Three

Morning

Morning

Explore the Rows and enjoy some retail therapy Famous the world over, Chester’s Medieval two-tiered galleries are home to some of the city’s most fascinating shops, including the oldest shop-front in England which can be found on Lower Bridge Street.

Visit Chester Zoo Home to thousands of rare and exotic species from all over the world, ranging from a magnificent herd of elephants, two types of rhino 'crashes', lions and tigers, a mixture of monkeys both large and small including chimps, and the exciting Realm of the Red Ape exhibit where gibbons and orang-utans live and play side by side in the largest (and possibly the noisiest!) enclosure of its kind in Europe.

Watch the Town Crier proclamation Chester is the only place in Britain to have retained the historic tradition of regular midday proclamations from a fixed point. It’s free, fun and totally unforgettable.

Proclamations take place Tue to Sat 12noon (10.30am on race days) May to August. www.chestertowncriers.com

Afternoon Head down to the River Dee Enjoy a delicious Ice Cream, take a river trip with ChesterBoat or if you’re feeling adventurous and energetic hire a rowing boat or pedalo and power yourself down the river. Walk over Queen’s Park Bridge and take a stroll (or run) through the Meadows.

Or Take a Guided Tour Chester is rich in history which is reflected in the range of tours on offer, hop on to one of the open top bus tours if in season or take a walking tour through the streets; or for something different have a guided tour with a Roman Soldier. www.visitchester.com

Although an outdoor attraction there’s plenty to do indoors; take a butterfly journey through the biggest zoo-based butterfly house in the UK where more than 30 species of butterfly and moths fly around you; or brave Fruit Bat Forest where bats fly around as you walk through the forest at twilight – an experience not to be missed!

The zoo’s on the outskirts of the city and there is a regular bus service which runs from the bus station by the Town Hall, alternatively it is a short taxi ride. www.chesterzoo.org

Afternoon Continued from morning activity

Evening Head to 1539 Restaurant and Bar at Chester Racecourse for a delicious meal and stunning views. www.restaurant1539.co.uk

Enjoy Afternoon Tea at The Chester Grosvenor The Arkle Bar and Lounge at The Chester Grosvenor is the perfect place for afternoon tea. Offering a range of options from traditional to decadent its central location in the city and reputation for quality make it a must-do whilst visiting. www.chestergrosvenor.co.uk

Evening If you fancy some traditional English pub food then The Coach House on Northgate Street or Brewery Tap on Lower Bridge Street are perfect choices. www.coachhousechester.co.uk www.the-tap.co.uk

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CHESHIRE 3-DAY MACCLESFIELD & RURAL CHESHIRE ITINERARY Visit the historic town of Macclesfield and explore the surrounding picturesque Cheshire countryside.

Day One Morning Depart from London Euston to Macclesfield by train. Macclesfield is just 1 hour 40 minutes from London by train.

Visit Macclesfield Silk Museum Macclesfield was the centre of the silk weaving industry in Britain for many years, renowned for the skill of its designers and it’s richly patterned woven fabrics. Visit the three silk museum buildings all located within walking distance of each other and uncover the silk story with a guided tour. The museum has costume and textile displays, working handlooms and interactive exhibits and is a perfect way to start your visit to the town. www.historicmacclesfield.co.uk

Afternoon Explore the town of Macclesfield. Visit Granelli’s on Newton Street and enjoy their delicious ice cream, you’ll find over forty flavours to choose from. Visit Arighi Bianchi, the iconic furniture store and explore designer boutiques along historic Chestergate. www.historicmacclesfield.co.uk

Evening Enjoy a meal at one of the great local pubs before getting an early night ready for a day of exploring. There are plenty to choose from in and around Macclesfield. www.historicmacclesfield.co.uk

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CHESHIRE 3-DAY MACCLESFIELD & RURAL CHESHIRE ITINERARY

Day Two

Afternoon

Morning

Head to ‘The Edge’ at Alderley Edge, the inspiration for Alan Garner’s book The Weirdstone of Brisingamen. From ‘The Edge’ you will get stunning views of the Cheshire Plain and possibly uncover legends.

Pack your rucksack and pull on your walking boots as you head out to explore the central section of the Gritstone Trail. The Gritstone Trail covers 35 miles in total with the central section covering about 15 miles.

Afternoon This section of the Gritstone Trail starts at Tegg’s Nose Country Park and ends at Timbersbrook picnic area. Along the route you’ll have stunning stunning views of the Cheshire countryside, historic monuments, industrial heritage and abundant wildlife.

This section of the route features some hilly climbs so you can do as much or as little as you like.

If you’d prefer a more relaxing walk then explore Tegg’s Nose Country Park. www.discovercheshire.co.uk

Evening

Legend has it that a long time ago a farmer from Mobberley was crossing the Edge to sell his beautiful milk-white mare at market. Upon reaching the Thieves’ Hole an old man appeared and offered to buy the horse. The farmer refused and the old man told his that no one would buy his horse and he would return later and the old man await his return and buy the horse.

The old man’s prediction came true and when the farmer returned to Theives’ Hole the old man, who was now a tall, proud wizard was waiting. He led the farmer and horse to a large rock in the hillside, which when he touched it with his staff opened to reveal a pair of Iron Gates. The wizard led them to a large cavern full of sleeping knights. Beside all of but one knight was a milk-white mare. The wizard led the farmer into another cavern full of jewels and told him to take what he wanted as payment for the horse as it was needed for the last knight. The farmer took payment and left.

The farmer returned many times to search for the Iron Gates but never found them.

From that day to this people have scoured the Edge trying to find the Gates. Will you be the one to find them!? www.cheshirepeakdistrict.com

Relax in a cosy restaurant or pub and enjoy a well-earned meal. www.historicmacclesfield.co.uk

Evening

Day Three

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Brasserie at Alderley Edge Hotel where you’ll be treated to fine food and panoramic views. www.cheshirepeakdistrict.com

Morning After yesterday’s long walk head to Macclesfield Forest for a gentler day or exploration in Cheshire.

Here you will find four reservoirs, a great selection of trees, plants and wildlife waiting to be discovered. Visit the visitor centre where you can get maps of the area or wonder the paths finding your own way. www.historicmacclesfield.co.uk

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CORNWALL FAMILY FUN 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day One Morning & Afternoon The fun begins as soon as you arrive in Cornwall with a morning in the surf trying your hand at the ultimate of Cornish pastimes. You will be taught the art of riding the waves and will finish the morning looking like weathered pros with sand between your toes and a smile on your face!

Spend the rest of the day drying off by exploring Newquay’s range of family visitor attractions. As well as Newquay Zoo www.newquayzoo.org.uk and the Blue Reef Aquarium www.bluereefaquarium.co.uk/newquay.htm you can chose from Dairyland Farm World www.dairylandfarmworld.com and Cornwall’s Crealy Adventure Park www.crealy.co.uk/cornwall/.

Evening Spend the night in the ultimate of child friendly hotels: Bedruthan Steps Hotel & Spa www.bedruthan.com Sands Resort www.sandsresort.co.uk

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CORNWALL FAMILY FUN 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Day Three

Morning & Afternoon

Morning & Afternoon

Enjoy another active morning experiencing Cornwall’s most popular cycle route – the Camel Trail. Stretching 17 miles this flat, traffic-free trail follows the path of a former railway line between Bodmin and Padstow and takes in amazing country and waterside views.

Visit the extraordinary Eden Project which has a universal appeal across all age ranges. As well as being mesmerising to the grown ups it has an abundance of child friendly facilities and features which bring nature to life and make learning fun.

Join the trail at Wadebridge where you can hire bikes in just about any shape and size (and with special child friendly fixtures) and enjoy the 5 most popular miles of the route to Padstow.

On reaching Padstow you will discover a bustling town nestled on the banks of the Camel estuary. As the home of celebrity chef Rick Stein, Padstow has become known for its culinary prowess and is overflowing with restaurants offering fine dining and quality local produce. Hidden in the streets surrounding the small harbour you will find many eateries bearing Steins name - why not refuel before your return cycle to Wadebridge with fish & chips a la Michelin star style at Steins Fish & Chip restaurant. www.rickstein.com

Once a china clay pit the extraordinary Eden Project now houses some of the biggest greenhouses in the world and has become a place to discover a wealth of plants and natural wonders. As you wander between the amazing biomes you will step into a tropical rainforest and experience a Mediterranean oasis.

Eden Project Bosue, nr St Austell www.edenproject.com

Evening Cross Cornwall to Fowey on the south coast, a picturesque fishing village which maintains its traditional charm. Here you will find the Fowey Hall Hotel which as well as exuding Victorian grandeur and charm is renowned for its child friendly facilities.

Fowey Hall Hotel Hanson Drive, Fowey PL23 1ET 01726 833866 www.foweyhallhotel.co.uk

Padstow Cornwall Index

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CORNWALL TANTALISING CORNWALL – 3-DAY FOODIE ITINERARY

Day One Morning and Afternoon On arriving in Cornwall head straight for the amazing Watergate Bay where the glorious sands not only welcome sun-kissed surfers and adrenaline junkies but also those on the hunt for some of Cornwall’s finest cuisine. Perched above the beach with unsurpassable sea views sits the Jamie Oliver inspired Fifteen Cornwall restaurant.

Beyond fantastic food this innovative restaurant disadvantaged youngsters from around the county with an opportunity to build careers in the restaurant industry. www.fifteencornwall.co.uk Enjoy lunch and relax in the informal atmosphere whilst soaking in the refreshing sea air.

Join a guided tour of the award winning Camel Valley Vineyards on the sun drenched slopes of Nanstallon in north Cornwall. As well discovering the vineyard and winery you will be shown how the grapes are transformed into wine and, of course, treated to a glass or two! www.camelvalley.com

Evening Evening meal examples: Nathan Outlaw Restaurant/Seafood & Grill Chose from the relaxed seafood bar and grill or the fine-dining restaurant headed up

by Michelin-starred chef, Nathan Outlaw. www.nathan-outlaw.com Rick Steins Padstow’s knot of small streets hide a range of restaurants bearing Rick Steins name Steins Fish & Chip Restaurant sits on the south quay, the café and bistro are tucked away in the back streets and the patisserie and deli are just a stones throw from the harbour. But taking centre stage opposite the harbour is the famous Seafood Restaurant. www.rickstein.com

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CORNWALL TANTALISING CORNWALL – 3-DAY FOODIE ITINERARY Accommodation examples: The Scarlet This stylish adult’s only hotel is the epitome of luxury with an elegant spa, leisure facilities and high class restaurant. It has been built to the highest eco standards and boost impeccable green credentials. www.scarlethotel.co.uk Treglos Hotel The four star Treglos hotel overlooks Contstantine Bay near Padstow and to complement its amazing sea views offers indulgent accommodation and a full range of leisure and spa facilities. www.tregloshotel.com

Onwards to the Lizard Pensisula and take a tour of Roskillys Farm to see the cows being milked before sampling the delights of their nectar by treating yourself to a luxurious Cornish ice-cream. Take your pick from the mouth-watering flavours… which will be your favourite? www.roskillys.co.uk End your day with a pasty making session at Choaks Bakery where you will taught the art of making a ‘proper’ Cornish pasty by experienced bakers. You’ll learn how to create the perfect crimp and come away with a pasty extraordinaire certificate!

Evening Accommodation example:

Day Two Morning and Afternoon Head into west Cornwall and explore the grow-your-own sections of Trevaskis Farm which boost an almost year-round array of fruits and vegetables. Grab a basket and fill with fresh from the ground Cornish strawberries, apples, beans, peas…. You’ll discover top quality food in the farm shop and finish your visit with a Cornish Cream Tea in the restaurant which is renowned for its generous portion sizes…local food at its best! www.trevaskisfarm.co.uk St Ives is a picturesque fishing village with an artistic flair. Follow the winding streets to the town centre which surrounds a scenic harbour and explore St Ives’ warren of back streets which hide a mixture of galleries, cafes and stylish art stores. You will stumble across many working artists taking inspiration from the surroundings and making the most of the quality of natural light which is reputed to be brighter than in other parts of Great Britain.

St Ives harbour front is lined with bistros, cafes, ice- cream parlours and bakeries so you’ll be spoilt for choice for lunch. Or why not head to the Blue Flag beach of Porthminster and dine with a view at the award-winning Porthminster Beach Café which is leading the way in St Ives’ foodie scene and continuously attracting rave reviews. www.porthminstercafe.co.uk

Index

The Driftwood Enjoy an overstay at the boutique Driftwood Hotel on The Roseland peninsula. With an in-house restaurant boosting a Michelin star your foodie experience will last throughout the night and you will be able to feast on the finest seafood prepared by top chef, Chris Eden. www.driftwoodhotel.co.uk

Day Three Morning and Afternoon Complete your foodie stay by joining a food forging walk and under the expert guidance of Rachel Lambert pull hidden delights from hedgerows, comb beaches for seasonal treats and indulge in the tantalising potential of the county’s beautiful countryside. Armed with natures treasures you will head back to the kitchen to whip up a truly Cornish meal like no other. www.wildwalks-southwest.co.uk

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COTSWOLDS INTRODUCTION TO THE COTSWOLDS BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT The Cotswolds area, just west of London is an iconic English destination, loved for its attractive‚ honey colour stone villages, gentle hills and typically English gardens B&Bs, manor houses, hotels and inns.

Day One Morning Depart from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh – a short journey of 1.5 hours, with a ‘Cotswold Discoverer’ ticket (which includes rail and bus transport to and within the Cotswolds). From Moreton-in-Marsh, you can walk to Batsford Arboretum – a pleasant 2km walk, or on to Mill Dene Garden (3.5km).

Afternoon Walk back into Moreton-in-Marsh (or pre-book a taxi) for lunch in one of the tearooms or pubs. Afterwards, take the bus to Bourton-on-the-Water. Explore the village, have a cream tea in one of the many tearooms or visit an attraction – Birdland, the Cotswold Perfumery or Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection. Nearby Upper & Lower Slaughter villages are recognised as two very special pretty villages.

Evening There are some great hotels in Bourton-on-the-Water such as The Dial House Hotel and Chester House Hotel, or Washbourne Court and Lords of the Manor in the Slaughters. Check in for the evening and enjoy a meal.

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COTSWOLDS INTRODUCTION TO THE COTSWOLDS BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Day Two

Day Three

Morning

Morning

After breakfast, take the 9.45 bus to Kemble. Walk or take a taxi to Go-By-Cycle in Somerford Keynes and hire some bicycles for the day. Cycle around the Water Park and enjoy the view of the natural lakes. Cycle into Cirencester.

Take the bus to Cheltenham. Browse the Promenade, the High Street and take in the Regency Architecture. Walking to Pittville Park and visiting the Pump Room is highly recommended.

Afternoon

Afternoon

Cirencester was one of the most important towns in Roman Britain – you can explore this heritage in the award-winning Corinium Museum. Or if you still have the energy, cycle to Bibury (seven miles) which is one of the most popular villages in the Cotswolds. Do this before or after lunch at Made By Bob in the Corn Hall.

Have lunch in one of Cheltenham’s many restaurants – from small private bistros and Michelin-starred restaurants in the Suffolks, to delicatessens and wine bars in Montpellier, you are spoiled for choice. To finish off, take the bus to Painswick and visit the Rococo Garden.

Evening

Evening

Book into a hotel such as The Wild Duck at Ewen (a favourite haunt of Prince Harry), Barnsley House Hotel or the Corinium Hotel in Cirencester.

Take the bus or taxi to Stroud, where you can get on the train for London.

Bibury Cotswolds Index

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COTSWOLDS THE COTSWOLD OLYMPICKS (AND OTHER ECCENTRIC SPORTS) - 2-DAY ITINERARY

Day One Morning Arrive in Chipping Campden Chipping Campden is particularly noted for its attractive High Street, described by noted historian G.M. Trevelyan as “the most beautiful village street now left in the island”. Please take a little while to explore the High Street.

11.00am – short coach drive up to Dover’s Hill Dover’s Hill is where the Cotswold Olympicks take place on the first Friday after the Spring Bank Holiday. The plateau offers beautiful views of the surrounding area – extending to the foothills of the Welsh mountains.

The location is beautiful in its own right – during the Olympicks, races and competitions such as welly throwing or shin kicking bring the venue to life.

Afternoon Drive to Bourton-on-the-Water (25 minutes) Short drive to Bourton-on-the-Water, there are plenty of options for lunch, such as the The Mousetrap Inn. The inn is in the town centre and is a 5 minute walk from the pretty ‘Riverside’ part of Bourton-on-the-Water.

1.30pm – walk down to Riverside The riverside is the preferred location for tourists visiting Bourton in the sunnier months. Sit down by the river, paddle your feet, have an ice cream! Every summer a football match is played here…in the river!

2.30pm – drive to Broadway Tower Country Park Half an hour’s drive away is Broadway Tower – a breathtaking folly on an ancient beacon site, with views extending 62 miles. The tower is open to the public and you can even go up to the roof for the best view. Broadway is also home to one of the official Olympic artists, Jeremy Houghton, who lives very nearby and exhibits his work all over the world.

5.30pm – drive to Chipping Campden.

Evening 7.00pm – dinner at The Ebrington Arms Have a delicious evening meal at the highly rated Ebrington Arms.

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Cotswold Cottage, Chipping Camden Cotswolds Index

COTSWOLDS THE COTSWOLD OLYMPICKS (AND OTHER ECCENTRIC SPORTS) - 2-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two Morning Have some breakfast and get ready to find out more about the Cotswolds’ eccentric sports.

9.30am – Drive to Brockworth An hour’s drive through the heart of Cotswolds Cooper’s Hill in Brockworth, just outside historic Gloucester.

10.30am – Arrive at Coopers Hill Cooper’s Hill is home to the near-infamous sport of ‘Cheese Rolling’ – an annual event in which competitors throw themselves down the steep gradient of the hill in pursuit of a large wooden wheel of cheese (which is already hurtling down the hillside!) Take a walk to the top of the hill and look down the steep incline and you can imagine what the daring runners can see as they hurl themselves after the prize! Lunacy!

11.45am – Coach drive to Tetbury A pleasant drive through the pleasant villages of Upton St Leonards and Painswick and the stylish settlement Stroud to Tetbury.

Afternoon 12.30pm – Arrive in Tetbury Explore Tetbury; enjoy its antique shops and wide range of organic garden produce on sale. Prince Charles’ Highgrove Shop is in the centre of town. Gumstool Hill is where one of the Cotswolds’ most unusual events happens – the Tetbury Woolsack Races. Thought to originate in the 17th Century and a celebration of the importance of Cotswolds wool trade. The races involve running up a hill carrying a 60lb (for men) or 35lb (for women) woolsack. The route is 240 yards, and the hill has a 1 in 4 gradient. The event raises money for local causes and features in the Guinness Book of Records.

Spend the afternoon exploring other Cotswold villages such as Burford, Bibury or Malmesbury.

Burford Cotswolds Index

95

CUMBRIA 3-DAY FOOD & DRINK ITINERARY Cumbria is considered one of the most beautiful regions of the UK and includes the whole of the Lake District, the Eden Valley, the North Pennines, the Furness Peninsula, and part of the Yorkshire Dales.

A diverse county with world-class cuisine and superb local produce Cumbria is all about taste, skill and quality.

It's in the way crops are grown, tended and harvested. In the way ingredients are selected, prepared and combined. The way recipes are tried, refined then tried again.

When so much dedication goes into creating something, it becomes a work of art.

Cumbria is full of such culinary masterpieces, from simple loaves from local bakeries to dishes in Michelin starred restaurants, real ale to damson gin. As well as there being so many specialities to try, there are so many places to try them. Whenever you come to the Lakes, make sure you're hungry.

Day One Morning Depart from London Euston to Oxenholme Lake District by train in just 2hrs 49mins.

Visit Low Sizergh Barn www.lowsizerghbarn.co.uk Lunch at Masons Arms www.masonsarmsstrawberrybank.co.uk

Afternoon Arrive at Lakeside Hotel + Afternoon Tea www.lakesidehotel.co.uk Visit Cowmire Hall www.cowmire.co.uk Visit Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding & Unsworths Yard www.cartmelvillageshop.co.uk or www.unsworthsyard.co.uk

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Yew Tree Farm bed and breakfast and The Flock tearoom Lake District, Cumbria Index

CUMBRIA 3-DAY FOOD & DRINK ITINERARY Evening

Alternatives

Lakeside Hotel (change) www.lakesidehotel.co.uk

Breakfast Cottage in the Wood

Dinner at Michelin starred L’enclume in Cartmel www.lenclume.co.uk

Visit Jennings Brewery + Lunch www.jenningsbrewery.co.uk/ageGate.aspx?ru=%2fDefault.aspx

Day Two

Travel to Penrith for departure

Morning Breakfast at Lakeside www.lakesidehotel.co.uk Visit Yew Tree Farm www.yewtree-farm.com Visit Hawkshead Relish www.hawksheadrelish.com Lunch Drunken Duck www.drunkenduckinn.co.uk

Afternoon Visit Grasmere Ginger Bread www.grasmeregingerbread.co.uk Visit Thornby Moor Dairy www.thornbymoordairy.co.uk

Evening Arrive at Cottage in the Wood + forage for ingredients + Dinner www.thecottageinthewood.co.uk

Day Three Morning Breakfast at Cottage in the Wood www.thecottageinthewood.co.uk Visit Cook in Cumbria www.cookincumbria.com Visit Chocolate Shop Orton + Lunch www.kennedyschocolates.co.uk

Afternoon

Gondolas Derwentwater, Cumbria

Travel to Oxenholme for departure Index

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CUMBRIA 3-DAY LITERARY ITINERARY The landscape of the English Lake District has inspired generations of poets and writers and is intimately associated with English literature in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Thomas Gray was the first to bring the region to attention, when he wrote a journal of his Grand Tour in 1769 but it was William Wordsworth whose poems were most famous and influential. Wordsworth's poem I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud, inspired by the sight of daffodils on the shores of Ullswater, remains one of the most famous in the English language.

In the churchyard of Grasmere the poet and his wife lie buried, and very near to them are the remains of Hartley Coleridge (son of the poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge), who himself lived for many years in Keswick, Ambleside and Grasmere. Robert Southey, the friend of Wordsworth, was a resident of Keswick for forty years (1803-43), and was buried in Crosthwaite churchyard. Samuel Taylor Coleridge lived for some time in Keswick, and also with the Wordsworths at Grasmere. From 1807 to 1815 John Wilson lived at Windermere. De Quincey spent the greater part of the years 1809 to 1828 at Grasmere, in the first cottage which Wordsworth had inhabited. Ambleside, or its environs, was also the place of residence both of Thomas Arnold, who spent there the vacations of the last ten years of his life and of Harriet Martineau, who built herself a house there in 1845. At Keswick, Mrs Lynn Linton (wife of William James Linton) was born, in 1822. Brantwood, a house beside Coniston Water, was the home of John Ruskin during the last years of his life.

In addition to these residents or natives of the Lake District, a variety of other poets and writers made visits to the Lake District or were bound by ties of friendship with those already mentioned above. These include Norman Nicholson, Percy Bysshe Shelley, Sir Walter Scott, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Arthur Hugh Clough, Henry Crabb Robinson, Thomas Carlyle, John Keats, Lord Tennyson, Matthew Arnold, Felicia Hemans, and Gerald Massey.

During the early 20th Century, the beloved children's book author Beatrix Potter was in residence at Hill Top Farm, setting many of her famous Peter Rabbit books in the Lake District. In more recent times, Arthur Ransome was resident in several areas of the Lake District and set a number of his Swallows and Amazons books in a fictionalised Lake District setting.

The novelist Sir Hugh Walpole lived at Brackenburn on the lower slopes of Catbells overlooking Derwentwater from 1924 until his death in 1941. Whilst living at Brackenburn he wrote the The Herries Chronicle detailing the history of a fictional Cumbrian Family over two centuries 98

Dove Cottage Lake District, Cumbria Index

CUMBRIA 3-DAY LITERARY ITINERARY

Day One

Afternoon

Morning

Visit Ruskin Museum www.ruskinmuseum.com

Depart from London Euston to Oxenholme Lake District by train in just 2hours 49 minutes.

Visit Brantwood + Afternoon Tea www.brantwood.org.uk

Visit Rydal Mount www.rydalmount.co.uk

Evening

Visit Dove Cottage + Lunch www.wordsworth.org.uk/history/index.asp?pageid=36

Cruise on Gondola www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-gondola Stay Lindeth Howe + Dinner www.lindeth-howe.co.uk

Afternoon Visit Mire House www.mirehouse.com Visit Wordsworth House + Afternoon Tea www.wordsworthhouse.org.uk

Day Three Morning

Evening

Breakfast Lindeth Howe www.lindeth-howe.co.uk

Arrive Swinside Lodge + Dinner www.swinsidelodge-hotel.co.uk

Visit Sebergh England’s Book Town www.sedbergh.org.uk Visit Farfield Mill + Lunch www.farfieldmill.org

Day Two

Afternoon

Morning

Depart Oxenholme Station

Breakfast Swinside Lodge www.swinsidelodge-hotel.co.uk Visit Armitt Museum www.armitt.com Visit Beatrix Potter Gallery www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-beatrixpottergallery Visit Hill Top + Lunch at Tower Bank Arms www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-findaplace/w-hilltop.htm www.towerbankarms.co.uk

Wordsworth House Lake District, Cumbria Index

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CUMBRIA 3-DAY GENERAL ITINERARY

Day One Morning Depart from London Euston to Oxenholme Lake District by train in just 2 hours 49 minutes.

Visit Abbot Hall www.abbothall.org.uk Visit Blackwell + Lunch www.blackwell.org.uk

Afternoon Arrive Holbeck Ghyll + Afternoon Tea www.holbeckghyll.com Visit Hill Top www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-findaplace/w-hilltop.htm Visit Tarn Hows www.visitcumbria.com/amb/tarn-hows.htm Visit Wray Castle www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-findaplace/w-hawksheadandclaife/wwray-castle.htm Visit Grasmere Ginger Bread www.grasmeregingerbread.co.uk

Evening Cruise on Windermere in Edwardian launch from Low Wood Bay www.windermere-lakecruises.co.uk Dinner Holbeck Ghyll www.holbeckghyll.com

Day Two Morning Breakfast at Holbeck Ghyll www.holbeckghyll.com Visit Ullswater for Cruise from Patterdale www.ullswater-steamers.co.uk/index.shtml Visit Dalemain + Lunch www.dalemain.com Hilltop, the house of Beatrix Potter Sawery, Cumbria 100

Index

CUMBRIA 3-DAY GENERAL ITINERARY Afternoon Visit Lowther www.lowther.co.uk Visit Castlerigg www.mysteriousbritain.co.uk/england/cumbria/featured-sites/castlerigg-stone-circle.html

Visit MireHouse + Afternoon Tea www.mirehouse.com Visit Puzzling Place www.puzzlingplace.co.uk Visit Pencil Museum www.pencilmuseum.co.uk

Evening Visit Theatre By The Lake + Light Supper www.theatrebythelake.co.uk Arrive Overwater Hall / Armathwaite Hall + Dinner www.overwaterhall.co.uk www.armathwaite-hall.com

Day Three Morning Breakfast Overwater Hall / Armathwaite Hall + Dinner www.overwaterhall.co.uk www.armathwaite-hall.com Visit Via Ferrata www.honister-slate-mine.co.uk/via_ferrata.asp Visit Rookin House + Lunch www.rookinhouse.co.uk

Afternoon Visit Rheged + Afternoon Tea www.rheged.com Depart Penrith Station www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations/pnr/details.html

Castlerigg Stone Circles Lake District, Cumbria Index

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DEVON 3-DAY ITINERARY If the Olympics inspries you to get active, Devon provides the ideal location to do just that as its varied and spectacular natural landscapes provide a giant playground for all ages.

This itinerary gives you a taster of just three of the endless number of activities that Devon has to offer and takes in one of the two coastlines and one of the two moors in the county.

Day One Morning Depart from London Paddington to Exeter by train and arrive in just 2 1/4 hours.

Pick up a hire car and head to the picturesque fishing village and former smuggling haven of Beer to walk a section of the Jurassic Coast. The Beer to Branscombe walk offers an gentle introduction to the 1014km of trails that make up the South West Coast Path and offers spectacular views of the Jurassic Coast, England’s first natural World Heritage Site.

From Branscombe, you can chose to continue the circular walk or catch the CoastHopper 899 bus back to Beer. www.southwestcoastpath.com/main/walks/index.cfm?fsa=dspWalkDetail&w_id=12 www.jurassiccoast.com

Afternoon Reward yourself with a drink or meal at the Anchor Inn, which overlooks the beach and is a popular watering hole for locals and visitors alike. www.oldenglishinns.co.uk/beer

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DEVON 3-DAY ITINERARY Evening

Day Three

Carry along the coast to Sidmouth. This elegant Regency town is framed by red sandstone cliffs and popular for its wide beachside esplanade, which stretches from the rows of fishing boats and lifeboat station at the eastern end of the shingle beach, past the long stretch of Georgian and Regency villas, to the cliff-top formal gardens in the west.

Morning

Stay overnight in Sidmouth at, for example: Sidmouth Harbour Hotel – The Westcliff, an elegant hotel overlooking the town and beach. www.sidmouth-harbour-hotel.co.uk

Hire bikes at Sourton and cycle part of the Granite Way which stretches along next to Dartmoor National Park, past woodland, moor and the Meldon Resevoir offering yet more of a taste of the beauty and variety of Devon’s landscapes. www.devon.gov.uk/cycling-leismaps-graniteway.pdf www.devoncyclehire.co.uk

Afternoon Stop for lunch at The Tors Inn at Belstone on the way back to Exeter

Day Two Morning

www.thetors.co.uk Return to London, refreshed and energised!

Drive down to south Devon. En route to Salcombe, head to the coast at Dartmouth and explore this stylish and picturesque town before stopping at Blackpool Sands, a great example of a Devon beach whose long sandy beach wouldn’t look out of place in the Caribbean. For a meal with a view, the Venus Beach Café serves up locally sourced food in a spectacular setting. www.blackpoolsands.co.uk

Afternoon Take a taster session with South Sands Sailing in Salcombe to explore the beautiful south Devon coastline and get to grips with either a small dinghy or, for a bit more speed and adrenaline, a catamaran. www.southsandssailing.co.uk

Evening Stay at the South Sands Hotel next door for a swanky boutique hotel and beachside restaurant. www.southsands.com Or head up to Dartmoor and stay at Lydford Country House for a more rural elegance. www.lydfordcountryhouse.co.uk Dartmoor National Park Devon Index

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DEVON ENGLISH RIVIERA, SOUTH DEVON – 3-DAY ITINERARY Brixham on the English Riviera, in South Devon’s Beautiful Bay, is the place to be when it comes to the best fish restaurants in the West Country. And the reason is clear Brixham’s ‘catch of the day’ is top of the menu for some of Europe’s most prestigious restaurants.

More than £25 million of fish is landed, bought and sold there every year and Brixham fish is known throughout Europe for its quality. www.englishriviera.co.uk

Day One Morning Train travel to the English Riviera takes in one of the most spectacular scenic coastal routes in the country. The track weaves its way along the beautiful South Devon coast just metres away from the sea and sandy beaches! Under 3 hours from London Paddington. Access by road is via the M5 motorway to South Devon. On arrival in Brixham check into the Quayside Hotel www.englishriviera.co.uk/where-to-stay/quayside-hotel-p283

Afternoon Head up to Berry Head National Nature Reserve, which guards the southern half of Tor Bay with stunning views out to sea. One of the gateways to the English Riviera Global Geopark, it is an internationally-acclaimed heritage site, home to a fascinating variety of wildlife and history, with recently-restored Napoleonic War fortifications.

Option to have tea and Devon scones at the new Guardhouse Café.

Evening The Old Market House in Brixham is the town’s newest eatery, situated in a converted Grade II listed building at the very heart of the harbourside. The meals here inevitably comprise the freshest food accompanied by award-winning beer and fine wines. http://www.englishriviera.co.uk/eating-out/old-market-house-p1288073 A very short stroll back to your hotel.

Torquay Harbour Devon 104

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DEVON ENGLISH RIVIERA, SOUTH DEVON – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Day Three

Morning

Morning

Spring out of bed early for a Brixham Fish Market Tour at 6am (weekdays only). Rick Smith, head of the Brixham Trawler Agents, will be your guide on the tour where you can watch fish being landed and buyers bid for over 40 different types of fish and shellfish. Afterwards relax in the nearby Fishermen's Mission and tuck into a Full English, or ask Rick if you can sample some spanking fresh fish that was landed just a few yards away.

A more leisurely start this morning, you could visit award-winning Bays Brewery in nearby Paignton to find out how the local brew is made and to sample some of the special beers such as Devon Dumpling, Spooky Ale and Jubilee Ale. http://baysbrewery.co.uk/our-beers/

www.englishriviera.co.uk/things-to-do/productlist=/things-to-do/brixham-fish-market-tours-p1291373&proxprodtype=attr

Walk on Brixham Breakwater (a measured mile) and admire the fishing boats and yachts in the harbour. Stop for coffee or crab sandwiches at the idyllic Breakwater Bistro where you can gaze out to sea in comfort. www.englishriviera.co.uk/eating-out/breakwater-bistro-p1284533

Afternoon Take a boat trip across South Devon’s Beautiful Bay to Torquay and back or enjoy a wildlife cruise or fishing trip. www.englishriviera.co.uk/things-to-do/boat-trips-brixham-p1299313

At lunchtime you could head to Occombe Farm in Paignton where you can enjoy a real taste of Devon in the Occombe Farm cafe, with award-winning food and drink.

You can choose from fresh, seasonal and local dishes from the farm - all day breakfasts, coffee and cream teas, lunches and roasts. www.englishriviera.co.uk/things-to-do/occombe-farm-p218313

Afternoon Stop by at Cockington Village for a very English experience in the beautiful thatched village of Cockington, and at its heart 460 acres of beautiful country park. Stop for traditional Devon cream tea at Rose Cottage Tea Rooms. www.englishriviera.co.uk/eating-out/rose-cottage-tea-rooms-p1300363

Evening Evening Overlooking the historic port of Brixham is Beamers, another outstanding fish restaurant where the seafood is hand-selected by the owners themselves at Brixham fish market.

Steaks, local meats, vegetarian options and desserts are also served up here. www.englishriviera.co.uk/eating-out/beamers-seafood-restaurant-brixham-p1281653 For drinks why not try the Quayside Hotel’s Ernie Lister Bar or the iconic Blue Anchor, one of Brixham’s traditional pubs? www.englishriviera.co.uk/eating-out/blue-anchor-brixham-p1209043

Return to London with wonderful memories of the English Riviera’s legendary food and drink!

Contact Anita Newcombe, Anita Newcombe Media & PR info@anitanewcombemedia.co.uk

Dependent on the date of your visit we can arrange for you to try special foodie events with Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust that include the legendary Mussels

by Moonlight and Catch & Cook boat trips. www.englishriviera.co.uk/things-to-do/english-riviera-attractions/geopark-discovery-packages

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DEVON ENGLISH RIVIERA, SOUTH DEVON – AGATHA CHRISTIE 3-DAY ITINERARY 2012 not only marks the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, it also marks the 60th anniversary of one of the most popular West End theatre productions of all time – Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap. The Queen of Crime was born in Torquay, on the English Riviera, in 1890.

Day One Morning Meet guide and historian John Risdon for a tour of Agatha Christie’s Riviera.

John has been guiding and lecturing on the history of the English Riviera for many years and will be able to give you a good basis for your Agatha Christie tour.

The tour will include: The Agatha Christie Gallery at Torquay Museum Torquay Museum 529 Babbacombe Road, Torquay, Devon TQ1 1HG Tel: 01803 293975 enquiries@torquaymuseum.org Trace the eventful life of the best-selling author of all time in this gallery dedicated solely to Agatha Christie – her life, her novels and her plays. It provides a detailed look at one of the world’s most prolific and well-known writers who became known as "The Queen of Crime".

There is a vast collection of photographs and images - from her childhood at Ashfield, to her later years at Greenway. The photographs depict a Torquay where life was very different from today - from concerts at the Pavilion Theatre, afternoon tea at the Marine Spa and roller-skating on the Princess Pier, they provide an insight into Agatha’s upbringing. There are also photographs from Agatha’s later life, especially her beloved home Greenway, where she lived for many years with her second husband Max Mallowan.

Afternoon Agatha Christie’s Riviera and the Agatha Christie Literary Trail Since the early 20th century, Agatha Christie has been thrilling readers and TV audiences with her gripping stories of crime and mystery.

The statistics behind her life are impressive enough. In her 85 years she wrote more than 80 books, many of them bestsellers, altogether selling an estimated two billion copies 106

worldwide and making her the best-selling fiction author of all time. Her global appeal is testified to by the fact that her stories have been translated into more than 45 languages.

But the true story of Agatha Christie’s life is every bit as intriguing and fascinating as her books, and nowhere can you get closer to her legacy than on the English Riviera, South Devon’s Beautiful Bay. Christie was born in the English Riviera town of Torquay, and spent many of the most important chapters of her life here, as well as using real places in the area as settings for her murder mysteries.

From the Agatha Christie Mile to the Agatha Christie Festival and visits to her beloved estate at Greenway, the English Riviera is the place to discover the real Christie. During your tour you will also see some of the sites that inspired her writing, and that feature on the Agatha Christie Literary Tail.

Agatha Christie’s Potent Plants Garden at Torre Abbey Potent Plants Garden Torre Abbey, The Kings Drive, Torquay, Devon TQ2 5JE Tel: 01803 293593 www.torre-abbey.org.uk Meeting with Head Gardener of Torre Abbey, Ali Marshall. Ali has created a new garden called the Agatha Christie Potent Plants Garden. She read all Christie’s books, worked out which poisons derive from plants, and then planted cultivars to match. All the plants in the garden can kill or cure, depending on the motive! (but only if properly processed – so it’s not really dangerous…).

Evening Possible dinner at the Grand Hotel, location of Christie’s first honeymoon.

Day Two Morning Vintage bus trip to Greenway The vehicle is a 1949 Barnaby model restored to its authentic condition, and the trip is a real “jiggle-jerk”, bumpy ride! The journey includes a commentary from the driver.

Give your names to the driver for free entry.

The vintage bus is operated by Greenway Ferry and Pleasure Cruises Office: 13 The Quay, Brixham, Devon TQ5 8AW Tel: 01803 882811 info@greenwayferry.co.uk www.greenwayferry.co.uk Index

DEVON ENGLISH RIVIERA, SOUTH DEVON – AGATHA CHRISTIE 3-DAY ITINERARY Arrive at Greenway

Day Three - Optional

National Trust Greenway Greenway Road, Galmpton, nr Brixham, Devon TQ5 0ES Tel: 01803 842382 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/greenway

Option to do a guided tour of Agatha Christie Country – South Devon http://goo.gl/maps/1UbG

This is an extraordinary glimpse into the private holiday home of the famous and much-loved author Agatha Christie and her family. The relaxed and atmospheric house is set in the 1950s, and contains many of the family's collections, including archaeology, Tunbridgeware, silver, botanical china and books. Outside you can explore the large and romantic woodland garden, with a restored vinery, wild edges and rare plantings, which drifts down the hillside towards the sparkling Dart estuary.

Afternoon Board Greenway Ferry’s Christie Belle, departing from Greenway Quay Greenway Ferry and Pleasure Cruises Office: 13 The Quay, Brixham, Devon TQ5 8AW Tel: 01803 882811 info@greenwayferry.co.uk www.greenwayferry.co.uk The ferry will take you down the River Dart to the famous naval town of Dartmouth.

On the way, you’ll spot the Greenway boathouse, location for a murder in Dead Man’s Folly. The journey includes commentary and you may have a chance to interview the crew. At Dartmouth you’ll need to transfer straightaway onto the passenger ferry to take you across the river to Kingswear for the steam train.

Dartmouth Steam Railway steam train trip from Kingswear to Paignton Dartmouth Steam Railway and Riverboat Company Office: Queens Park Station, Torbay Road, Paignton, Devon TQ4 6AF Tel: 01803 555872 www.dartmouthrailriver.co.uk

• Use Higher Ferry to cross the River Dart to Dartmouth • Once in Dartmouth, follow the signs to Kingsbridge, then you will need to follow signs for Bigbury on Sea. • Depending on tides, you may be able to walk across the sand to Burgh Island. If the tide is in, you can use the sea tractor.

Burgh Island Burgh Island Hotel Bigbury-on-Sea, South Devon, TQ7 4BG Tel: 01548 810514 www.burghisland.com The Art Deco Burgh Island Hotel is famous for being the inspiration behind Agatha Christie’s novels “And Then There Were None” and “Evil Under the Sun”. Looking at the incredible landscape, it’s easy to see where that inspiration came from. We should be able to arrange for coffee at the hotel.

Members of the public are free to walk across most of the island, but the hotel grounds are for hotel guests only. Next to the hotel is the cosy Pilchard Inn, a traditional pub.

Dartmoor National Park From Burgh Island, head out onto the B3392 and then onto the B3196 towards the A38. On the A38 take direction Exeter, then take the B3387. Follow this road up to beautiful Haytor. The nearby Moorlands House Hotel provided a quiet spot for Agatha Christie while she finished her first ever novel, “The Mysterious Affair At Styles”.

You’ll have the chance to ride in the Devon Belle, the viewing carriage, on this beautiful trip through the countryside of South Devon and along the coastline of the English Riviera. The journey is one that Agatha Christie herself would have taken from Paddington. The train will pass through Churston Station (which features as the ‘C’ in Agatha Christie’s novel “The ABC Murders”).

Dartmoor National Park is absolutely stunning and you may like to take a relaxed drive across the moor. There are plenty of places to stop for a traditional Dartmoor ale, or a bite to eat.

Evening

Optional – possibly dinner at The Cary Arms, a traditional seaside inn with boutique rooms.

Possible dinner at the Michelin-starred Elephant Restaurant.

For more information on Agatha Christie’s Riviera, visit www.englishriviera.co.uk/agathachristie.

Evening

Contact Anita Newcombe, Anita Newcombe Media & PR info@anitanewcombemedia.co.uk Index

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DURHAM 3-DAY ITINERARY A vibrant city sits at the heart of a sweeping emerald canvas with tranquil dales, dramatic coastline and picture perfect market towns and villages as near neighbours. Durham City, with its medieval past, has eagerly embraced the present with its superb blend of heritage and contemporary culture, stylish shopping and varied nightlife. In the wider county new experiences are waiting to be enjoyed with history, heritage, culture and active outdoor activities on the doorstep.

Day One Morning Depart from London Kings Cross and travel to Durham by train in less than three hours.

Afternoon Start the day with a visit to Durham City's iconic Cathedral, described by Bill Bryson as "the best cathedral on planet earth" and, together with Durham Castle, forms the World Heritage Site. Durham Castle dates back to the 11th century and was once home to the Prince Bishops, who held tremendous power over the North of England.

One of the city's most photographed buildings is Durham University's Museum of Archaeology at the Old Fulling Mill, which houses a fascinating collection including pieces from Ancient Greece and Rome. Durham City is also the home of the world renowned Oriental Museum, the only museum in the north of Britain dedicated solely to the art and archaeology of the Orient.

The green fingered will delight at the quintessentially English gardens of Crook Hall, a Medieval manor house which is one of the city's hidden gems, whilst on the southern outskirts of the city is the Botanic Garden, where cacti and tropical collections are set among 7.3ha of Durham University's mature woodland.

Evening For evening entertainment, The Gala Theatre is the city's main arts venue, with a 500-seat auditorium and cinema complex. It runs a year-round programme of drama, comedy, live music, dance and children's shows. And you don't need to venture far for pre-show dinner and drinks, with the Walkergate complex and stylish restaurants on the theatre's doorstep.

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Durham Cathedral Durham Index

DURHAM 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Evening

Morning

From indulgent dining to a casual meal, Durham offers a range of restaurants to choose from - offering an array of cuisines. If you're looking for somewhere to enjoy your favourite tipple, try one of Durham's suave and sophisticated bars, or enjoy the warmth of a real fire supping a pint of real ale in one of our many cosy pubs

Head to Beamish Museum, just north of Durham City. Britain's favourite open air museum is set over 120ha of beautiful countryside and vividly recreates life in the North of England in the early 1800s and 1900s. This award-winning museum provides entertainment and education for visitors of all ages.

Afternoon Before you leave try out Beamish Wild is the newest adrenalin filled attraction in the Vale of Durham, where you will find an exhilarating high ropes course.

Evening For dinner, sample the delicious local fare at one of the many eateries in the TasteDurham quality scheme. www.tastedurham.co.uk

Day Three Morning Head south towards the picturesque market town of Barnard Castle in Teesdale in the Durham Dales. Just a few miles north of Barnard Castle stands Raby Castle & Gardens. This 14th century castle is surrounded by beautiful walled gardens, and the extensive parkland is home to herds of fallow and roe deer. Barnard Castle is home to The Bowes Museum. Soak up the atmosphere of this French-style chateau while exploring the treasures within.

Afternoon Travel to High Force in Upper Teesdale in the Durham Dales - the largest unbroken waterfall in England, which has a woodland walk which leads you to the spectacular site. As you begin the descent you will see a transformation of views every few yards.

Relax, unwind and marvel at this magnificent natural attraction.

Index

The Town of Beamish Durham 109

EAST MIDLANDS DERBYSHIRE, NOTTINGHAMSHIRE AND LEICESTERSHIRE – FOOD

Day One – Derbyshire Travel from London to Derbyshire in morning by train from St Pancras International.

Discover Bakewell Pudding in the picturesque Peak District: Learn the secret of making Bakewell’s world-famous delicacy at this charming market town’s Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop, and take your pudding home to eat later!

Time to explore historic Bakewell on foot, or for an optional visit to Chatsworth Farm Shop at nearby Pilsley.

Savour a tour of award-winning Thornbridge Brewery, Bakewell, followed by a food and beer matching session to tempt your tastebuds (numbers permitting)!

Stay in the Peak District overnight.

Pudding Shop, Bakewell Debryshire 110

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EAST MIDLANDS DERBYSHIRE, NOTTINGHAMSHIRE AND LEICESTERSHIRE – FOOD

Day Two – Nottinghamshire

Day Three– Leicestershire

The historic Welbeck Estate in the north of Nottinghamshire is a foodie heaven, home to the School of Artisan Food and a number of other local producers. Nearby is the Ducal Estate of Clumber Park and the famous Sherwood Forest. In the evening enjoy the dining available in Nottingham – known for having more bars, restaurants, pubs and cafes per square mile than any other UK city.

Leicestershire is home to the quintessentially English pork pie, with protected status meaning it is the only county able to produce Melton Mowbray pork pies. It is also home to stilton cheese – the UK’s favourite blue cheese. Visit the traditional market town of Melton Mowbray to find out more.

Travel from Derby/Peak District to Welbeck Estate in Nottinghamshire www.welbeck.co.uk/ School of Artisan Food on the Welbeck Estate: The only not-for-profit school in the UK dedicated to the preservation of traditional artisan food techniques, the School of Artisan Food offers short courses in everything from bread making to icecream making and cider making. Enjoy an introduction to the courses or a tour of the school, and find out more about the food expertise on site. www.schoolofartisanfood.org/ While there you can also visit the Welbeck Abbey Brewery, Welbeck Farm Shop and Lime House Cafe all of which are on the historic Welbeck Estate.

Lunch at Barker’s at Clumber Park: 15 minutes from Welbeck Estate is the beautiful Ducal estate of Clumber Park. Enjoy lunch at the brand new Barker’s Restaurant overlooking the walled kitchen garden. The restaurant uses fresh produce from the traditional garden and is in the old Head Gardener’s House. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/clumberpark/

Travel from Nottingham to Melton Mowbray.

Visit Ye Olde Pork Pie Shop and make your own pork pies: Learn about the fascinating history of the shop and why Melton Mowbray became the original home of the pork pie industry. Watch demonstrations of hand raised pork pies, sample their unique taste and also visit The Sausage Shop next door. www.porkpie.co.uk/ Cheese Tasting at Melton Cheese Board: Melton Cheeseboard has the widest range of cheeses in the county with over 120 varieties, many of which are sourced in Leicestershire and the East Midlands. Enjoy a guided tasting of the cheeses, including locally produced Stilton. www.meltoncheeseboard.co.uk/ Brewery Tour and Lunch at Belvoir Brewery: Tour and taste the local wines at the Belvoir Brewery, watch the brewers crafting the beers through the viewing windows and try your hand at old-fashioned bar billiards. www.belvoirbrewery.com/ Travel back to London from Leicester (90 minutes by train to St Pancras International)

Major Oak at Sherwood Forest: Drop into Sherwood Forest to see first hand the world famous Major Oak, known as the hiding place of Robin Hood and his Merry Men. Travel to Nottingham for an overnight stay in the city

Preparation of Melton Mowbray’s famous pork pies Leicestershire Index

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EAST MIDLANDS DERBYSHIRE, NOTTINGHAMSHIRE AND LEICESTERSHIRE – GREAT OUTDOORS

Day One – Derbyshire Travel from London to Derbyshire in morning by train from St Pancras International.

Choice of outdoor activities in the Peak District, including: walking, cycling, horse riding and a range of outdoor pursuits including archery, abseiling, canoeing, climbing, fencing, ghyll scrambling, kayaking, mountain biking, orienteering, raft building and team building (all subject to age, ability, fitness levels and interests).

Stay overnight in Peak District.

Day Two – Nottinghamshire Travel from Peak District to Creswell Crags in Nottinghamshire Explore Britain’s Ice Age evidence: Creswell Crags is a limestone gorge honeycombed with caves and smaller fissures. Stone tools and remains of animals found in the caves by archaeologists provide evidence for a fascinating story of life during the last Ice Age between 50,000 and 10,000 years ago. Walk through the gorge and imagine life here thousands of years ago, plus see Ice Age art and the Robin Hood cave where the legend is said to have hidden. www.creswell-crags.org.uk/ Visit Sherwood Forest: Explore Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve on foot with a walk through the trails to discover centuries old Oak Trees and the famous Major Oak, known as another hiding place of Robin Hood and his Merry Men. Sherwood is a Site of Special Scientific Interest thanks to the unique dead wood invertebrate it supports.

Chatsworth House Derbyshire

Travel to Nottingham

Day Three– Leicestershire

Visit Attenborough Nature Reserve: An award-winning nature reserve, Attenborough covers 145 hectares of wetland on the edge of Nottingham. Explore the reserve on foot to spot rare birdlife and stroll the banks of the River Trent. www.attenboroughnaturecentre.co.uk

Visit the National Forest in Leicestershire : The National Forest contains more than 400 new and ancient woodlands. Around 90% of the woodlands created have public access, welcoming visitors to wander through the woods, explore and enjoy the peace and quiet. The National Forest is one of the country's boldest environmental projects and won the inaugural Sustainable Development UK award in 2008. It is transforming 200 square miles in the centre of England. Explore the National Forest on foot or by bike, or visit Conker’s for a hands-on National Forest experience www.nationalforest.org/ http://www.visitconkers.com/visitorinfo/

Stay overnight at Radisson Blu eco-hotel at East Midlands Airport A brand new fourstar eco-hotel built to the highest standards: www.radissonblu.co.uk/hotel-eastmidlandsairport

Travel back to London

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EAST MIDLANDS DERBYSHIRE, NOTTINGHAMSHIRE AND LEICESTERSHIRE – HISTORY AND HERITAGE

Day One – Derbyshire Explore England’s best stately homes in the glorious Peak District.

Travel from London to Derbyshire in morning by train from St Pancras International Chatsworth House: Chatsworth is one of Britain’s best loved historic houses and estates, offering something for everyone to enjoy, from famous works of art and the spectacular fountains and water features in the garden to the finest shopping, food and drink and many miles of free walks. The home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire is set in the magnificent landscape of the Peak District National Park, and has featured in many Hollywood blockbusters – such as Pride & Prejudice and The Duchess. www.chatsworth.org Haddon Hall: Probably the finest example of a fortified medieval manor house in the world, and home to Lord Edward Manners. Present-day Haddon dates from the 12th century, with its most recent additions in the early 17th century. Closed for more than 200 years, from 1700 to the 1920s, it is a fascinating time capsule built around an atmospheric stone courtyard, with Tudor kitchen, private chapel, hauntingly beautiful Long Gallery and terraced Elizabethan gardens. Haddon is perhaps best known as the distinctive backdrop for period films such as Elizabeth, The Princess Bride, The Other Boleyn Girl and no less than three versions of Jane Eyre – the latest released in the UK in autumn 2011. www.haddonhall.co.uk Stay overnight in Derbyshire

Day Two – Nottinghamshire Follow the trail of the Robin Hood legend in Nottinghamshire.

Travel from Derbyshire to Nottinghamshire Sherwood Forest: Start your Robin Hood story in Sherwood Forest, home to the famous Major Oak, said to be one of the hideouts of Robin Hood and his men. Here you can have a go at archery, and imagine yourself as a modern day outlaw. The forest is also home to some of the oldest oaks in England, making for an impressive canopy as you walk the quiet wooded trails.

Index

Edwinstowe: On your way from Sherwood Forest to Nottingham, visit St Mary’s Church in Edwinstowe, said to be where Robin Hood and Maid Marian were wed.

Nottingham Castle: Visit the Robin Hood statue at Nottingham Castle and explore the grounds of the current castle, a 17th Century palace on the grounds of the original medieval Castle site. Journey through the caves and tunnels under the castle, and then visit England’s oldest pub, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, build into the base of the Castle sandstone.

Galleries of Justice Museum: Learn about the Villainous Sheriff of Nottingham, Robin Hood’s arch enemy, and explore the haunted dungeons of Nottingham’s former law court and gaol.

Stay overnight in Nottingham

Day Three– Leicestershire Visit Leicestershire and the site of one of the most important British battles, and see history brought to life.

Travel from Nottingham to Melton Mowbray Bosworth Battlefield: Bosworth is a site of national historic significance, being the location of one of the three most important battles fought on British soil. It is the site where the Battle of Bosworth took place in 1485, and infamous as the place where King Richard III lost his life and crown to Henry Tudor and thus where the Tudor dynasty was born. Shakespeare immortalised Richard III, a King betrayed, unhorsed, surrounded by his enemies and finally calling out “A horse, a horse, my kingdom for a horse.”

Journey through Medieval England in the interactive exhibition, witness the horrors of medieval warfare in the Battle Room. Follow the fortunes of four characters and hear their stories about how they were affected during this turbulent time. Test your skill as an archer. Try on some armour and see how heavy it was. www.bosworthbattlefield.com Travel from Leicestershire to London

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EAST SUSSEX HASTINGS & 1066 COUNTRY – 2-DAY ITINERARY Cream teas and steam trains, in a green and pleasant land.

1066 Country can be reached in just 1 hour 15 mins from London by train, making this the perfect short break from the city, or perfect base from which to visit London for the day during the Olympic Games or Diamond Jubilee of 2012.

1066 Country has a wealth of top quality restaurants and awardwinning accommodation. We are happy to host journalist visits and help organise itineraries with complimentary entrance to attractions.

Assistance with media rates for accommodation where complimentary not available. Please contact: Jane Ellis Travel Trade and Tourism PR, jmellis@hastings.gov.uk T. 01424 451113 This itinerary suggests a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and a step back to a gentler time.

Day One Morning & Afternoon Combine a ride on a steam train with a visit to a garden, castle or toy & pedal car museum. www.kesr.org.uk Take the train from Tenterden, and travel on the finest example of a rural light railway in the UK, the Kent & East Sussex Railway.

Distance between attractions by steam train: Kent & East Sussex Railway at Northiam – The Mill Toy & Pedal Car Museum, Northiam: 100m walk Northiam, Great Dixter – Bodiam Station (and castle): 10km + 2km walk Alight at Northiam station to visit the Mill Toy and Pedal Car Museum or/and Great Dixter House and gardens.

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Great Dixter House and Gardens East Sussex Index

EAST SUSSEX HASTINGS & 1066 COUNTRY – 2-DAY ITINERARY The Mill Toy & Pedal Car Museum The Mill Museum is widely considered to be the largest and finest collection of pedal cars in Europe, with exhibits dating from Victorian times. Visitors of all ages will enjoy a trip down memory lane as a world in miniature awaits discovery. The majority of exhibits on display in the Museum have been lovingly played with by children from around the world. www.themilltoymuseum.com Great Dixter House and Gardens Built in c1460 and birthplace and home of the late Christopher Lloyd, gardening writer. www.greatdixter.co.uk Continue to Bodiam and alight at Bodiam for a visit to Bodiam Castle and also the Cavell carriage exhibition at the station. This is the carriage that transported the body of the unknown warrior from Dover to London.

Evening Overnight in environs of Rye.

Day Two Morning Visit to Rye one of the best preserved medieval towns in England – cobbled streets and plenty of cream tea shops! Henry James and E F Benson are the former inhabitants of Lamb House which has played host to many famous literary figures. www.visit1066country.com

Afternoon Bateman’s - TN19 7DS www.nationaltrust.org.uk Rudyard Kipling’s former home and garden set in outstanding natural surroundings.

Setting for TV film ‘My Boy Jack’. A must for those interested in the life of this popular author and his family.

Mermaid Street Rye, East Sussex Index

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EAST SUSSEX HASTINGS & 1066 COUNTRY – 3-DAY HISTORICAL ITINERARY A tour of 1066 Country – birthplace of English history.

1066 Country can be reached in just 1 hour 15 mins from London by train, making this the perfect short break from the city, or perfect base from which to visit London for the day during the Olympic Games or Diamond Jubilee of 2012.

1066 Country has a wealth of top quality restaurants and awardwinning accommodation. We are happy to host journalist visits and help organise itineraries with complimentary entrance to attractions.

Assistance with media rates for accommodation where complimentary not available.

Day One Morning Bodiam Castle, built 1385 – a moated castle straight out of a child’s storybook, the best example of its type in the country. Spectacular exterior with towers, battlements and ruins to explore.

(Nov & Dec open Wed – Sun, Jan to first weekend in Feb weekends only, Mid Feb – end Oct daily).

Head to historic market town of Battle, site of the Battle of Hastings in 1066. (14 kms) Visit to the Battle Museum of Local History – housing among other artefacts, the only weapon head to be found from the 1066 battlefield and the oldest Guy Fawkes effigy in the world (400 yrs old). (Open daily in high season, closed Oct – Mar).

Afternoon 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield TN33 0AD – hands on visitors’centre, battlefield and abbey. (Nov – mid Feb open weekends only).

Find out what really happened on the most famous date in English history at the site of the Battle of Hastings. Annual re-enactment of the Battle of Hastings, October.

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Bodiam Castle East Sussex Index

EAST SUSSEX HASTINGS & 1066 COUNTRY – 3-DAY HISTORICAL ITINERARY Evening

Afternoon

Accommodation in the picturesque village of nearby Robertsbridge at The George Inn – luxury rooms. Mainline access to London Charing Cross.

Gardens and Grounds of Herstmonceux Castle.

Magnificent moated castle set in beautiful parkland with Elizabethan gardens.

Morning

Next door to the castle is The Observatory Science Centre – part of the former home of the Royal Greenwich Observatory. Telescopes and domes open to the public. Hands on Science Centre – excellent for children. Busy programme of astronomy related events throughout the year.

Depart Robertsbridge for Hastings Old Town – (10km) www.visit1066country.com

Evening

Day Two

Discover the fascinating history of the Old Town, showing you ancient churches, breathtaking views, secret passages (‘twittens’), medieval buildings.

Depart 1066 Country.

Afternoon Hastings Castle, Britain’s first Norman Castle built by William the Conqueror.

(Nov – Mar open weekends only).

Reach via the West Hill cliff railway, dating from the turn of the 20th century.

Spectacular views over the Old Town, fishing fleet and sea.

Evening Overnight accommodation in Hastings Old Town – specialising in 5-star boutique B&Bs such as Swan House, Laindons or 4-star gold Lavender & Lace B&B.

Day Three Morning Depart Hastings for Pevensey Castle BN24 5LE (25 kms) (Nov – March open weekends only). www.english-heritage.org.uk Roman fortress, used as recently as 1940. Fine west gate and unusual keep of Norman castle.

Pevensey Courthouse Museum – check opening times.

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HAMPSHIRE, ISLE OF WIGHT & WEST SUSSEX 3-DAY ITINERARY South East England is ideally located near to London and is a great destination for groups, families and individuals.

The region offers a fantastic combination of rich historical sites, beautiful gardens, designer shopping outlets, as well as stunning coastlines and a beautiful countryside.

Day One Morning From Southampton Airport/ London/ Portsmouth Ferry Travel by ferry to the Isle of Wight and visit Newport, a beautiful historic town, situated in the centre of the island.

Lunch.

Afternoon Travel round the island, visiting Ventnor, one of Britain's most famous Victorian health resorts, and discovering the stunning coastal landmarks of the Needles and Alum Bay. Take the ferry to Lymington and take a leisurely drive through the beautiful New Forest to Lyndhurst, A337, 20 minutes.

Evening Overnight: Forest Gate Lodge, Lyndhurst Rhinefield House, Brockenhurst Best Western Forest Lodge Hotel, Lyndhurst

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HAMPSHIRE, ISLE OF WIGHT & WEST SUSSEX 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Day Three

Morning

Morning

Hampshire

Hampshire & Sussex

Drive across the forest to the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu to admire the vast collection of over 250 world famous motor vehicles. Visit Beaulieu Abbey, Palace House and Buckler’s Hard.

Pick up the M27/M3 to Winchester (45 minutes) one of the oldest settlements in Britain and the ancient capital of the Kingdom of England.

Visit Portsmouth, a town rich in maritime and naval history and visit Portsmouth Historic Dockyard where you can learn about life on board three of the world's most famous warships - HMS Victory, HMS Warrior 1860 and the Mary Rose.

Nearby is the designer shopping centre Gunwharf Quays where you will discover the Spinnaker Tower, a 170 metre tall visitor attraction providing breathtaking views over the South Coast.

Lunch.

Lunch.

Afternoon

Afternoon

Visit Winchester Cathedral, where in 2011 a special exhibition marked 400 years since the publication of the King James Bible. Also, the Jane Austen Story looks at how the author’s writing was influenced by the Bible. 2011 marked 200 years since Sense & Sensibility was published.

Travel 30 minutes on the A27 to Chichester, West Sussex, and visit Chichester Cathedral, which has been welcoming visitors for over 900 years. As well as housing various works of art, it is also the site of the Shrine of St Richard of Chichester.

Return to London/ Portsmouth Ferry.

Visit Winchester city, The Round Table and the Castle, built by William the Conqueror in 1067.

Travel to Portsmouth M3/M27, 45 mins

Evening Overnight in Portsmouth Fortitude Cottage Queen’s Hotel Hilton Portsmouth Hotel

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Further information: www.visitwight.co.uk www.visit-hampshire.co.uk visitchichester.org www.visitsoutheastengland.com Contact: international@tourismse.com

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ISLE OF WIGHT COWES ICONIC SPORTING EVENT – 3-DAY ITINERARY Spectacular 1,000 boat regatta with Olympic and world champions racing weekend sailors in one of the UK’s busiest shipping channels!

Day One Morning Depart from London Waterloo to Southampton by train and arrive in just over an hour. Start the marine journey by travelling to the Island on the hi-speed service from Southampton to Cowes which takes just 30 minutes.

Afternoon Go afloat to get close to the racing action – take some spectacular pictures and get a feel for the regatta.

Evening Attend the Cowes Week Limited cocktail party at the world’s most prestigious yacht club, the Royal Squadron (as a guest of Cowes Week Limited).

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ISLE OF WIGHT COWES ICONIC SPORTING EVENT – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two Morning Watch the start sequence from the Platform of the Royal Yacht Squadron where the hub of race management takes place. Talk to those that make the event happen behind-the-scenes and see the complex infrastructure that makes the event a success first-hand.

Afternoon Options to try sailing with an hours sailing lesson or watch the racing from the shore.

Evening Rub shoulders with the sailors in one of the many bars and soak up the vibrant “après sail” atmosphere.

Day Three Morning Option to have a go at racing for yourself!

Afternoon As above followed by champagne reception

Evening Return journey to Southampton feeling invigorated having been involved with one of the UK’s longest running and most successful sporting events!!

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KENT & HAMPSHIRE ENJOY A DICKENS OF A TIME - 4-DAY ITINERARY Mr Pickwick, Fagin, Magwitch; Oliver Twist asking for more, Marley’s ghost confronting Scrooge – they’re all unforgettable characters and scenes. If Charles Dickens were alive today, he would surely write the most popular TV soaps, and maybe that’s why people of all ages still love his books. You can still visit the real-life settings that fired his imagination, too, from Portsmouth to London and Kent. Escape for a day or short break to relive Dickens’ Victorian magic of cobbled streets and seaside haunts – with a few hi-tech surprises along the way that cast a vivid contemporary spell. Be inspired, enjoy a Dickens of a time!

Day One A tale of two cities Morning We begin our tour in the historic waterfront city of Portsmouth, where Charles Huffam Dickens was born in 1812 – you’ll find his family’s modest terraced house, now the Charles Dickens Birthplace Museum, on Old Commercial Road. View the parlour, dining room and bedroom, furnished to recreate middle-class tastes of the time.

Then discover more about Dickens and Portsmouth in the exhibition room featuring intriguing personal memorabilia (even the couch on which he would die at his house in Kent in 1870) or book a specialist guided walk to really get a taste for the city’s Victorian past. Dickens’ father John, a clerk in the Royal Navy pay office, was recalled to London in 1815, but in later years Charles returned to Portsmouth to research for his novel Nicholas Nickleby and to give public readings of his work. On his last visit, in 1866, he hunted in vain for his birthplace: these days it’s clearly signposted, so you’ll easily find it! www.charlesdickensbirthplace.co.uk

Afternoon- Evening Next, then, we head for London. Poor Charles had an unsettled childhood in the capital, Kent, then London again, where his father spent time in Marshalsea debtors’ prison. Little Charles was sent to work in a blacking factory, but later became a lawcourt reporter and journalist. Each episode of his life, his grim childhood, the twisting streets and lanes he explored, gave him the rich stuff of his fiction.

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KENT & HAMPSHIRE ENJOY A DICKENS OF A TIME - 4-DAY ITINERARY Enter his world at The Charles Dickens Museum on Doughty Street, the only one of his London homes to survive. He lived in the tall, narrow, Georgian building between April 1837 (a year after his marriage to Catherine Hogarth) and December 1839. At this time, with the serialisation of The Pickwick Papers, the writing of Oliver Twist and Nicholas Nickleby, he was on the way to becoming the most celebrated author of the 19th century.

Evening

Browse four atmospheric floors filled with the most important collection of Dickens material anywhere: original furniture, paintings, photographs and manuscripts.

Annotated books show the great pains he took when giving his famous readings of his works. Before you visit, check the museum’s calendar for special exhibitions and events, including walks through Dickensian London. www.dickensmuseum.com

Chatham Historic Dockyard www.thedockyard.co.uk Dickens World www.dickensworld.co.uk Paddle Steamer Kingswear Castle www.pskc.freeserve.co.uk

Day Two ‘I have many happy memories connected with Kent’

Morning

Morning Now make the short journey from London to the maritime towns of the Medway estuary. It’s just an hour to Chatham nowadays, but for Charles it was a world away.

He had moved here with his family in 1817 when he was five years old and stayed until 1822: they were the happiest years of his childhood and sparked a life-long love of the area. Chatham became Dullborough in The Uncommercial Traveller and Mudfog in The Mudfog Papers: ‘A pleasant town – a remarkably pleasant town – situated in a charming hollow by the side of a river.’ The Dickens family lived for a while at No. 2 (now No. 11) Ordnance Terrace. Privately owned, it’s not open to the public but a plaque celebrates its literary connections.

Afternoon Then tour Chatham Historic Dockyard, where John Dickens clerked in the Royal Navy pay office. You can easily picture the bustle that enthralled Charles as he explored the dockyard and the Chatham Lines fortifications that protected it, watching the military manoeuvres that would feature in The Pickwick Papers. And why not share his excitement for river trips that grew from accompanying his father on the Naval pay yacht Chatham. ‘Running water is favourable to day dreams, and a strong tidal river is the best of running water for mine’ (The Uncommercial Traveller). Recreate the experience by hopping aboard the Paddle Steamer Kingswear Castle, which operates from the dockyard.

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Embark on a thrilling Great Expectations boat ride, at the fabulous new Dickens World, Chatham Maritime. The themed family attraction is perfectly tuned to our modern multi-media generation, with a Peggotty’s Boathouse 4D cinema show and other exciting interpretations of Dickensian life.

Day Three Surpassingly beautiful Rochester “Magnificent ruin!” said Mr Snodgrass. “Glorious Pile!” echoed Mr Jingle, as members of the Pickwick Club glimpsed ancient Rochester Castle. Rochester, the briefest of jaunts from Chatham, entranced Dickens, and from his first novel, The Pickwick Papers, to his final, unfinished Mystery of Edwin Drood, he used it as a setting: ‘Its antiquities and ruins are surpassingly beautiful, with the lusty ivy gleaming in the sun, and the rich trees waving in the balmy air’ (Edwin Drood). As a boy Charles often walked here with his father – pick up a map from Medway Visitor Information Centre on the High Street and you can follow In Dickens’ Footsteps. So much from the author’s time remains that every vista is a game of I-spy.

There’s The Guildhall where Pip was indentured as an apprentice in Great Expectations: it’s now a museum of Rochester’s history, with a Dickens Discovery Room featuring memorabilia (his pocket bible, walking stick, family portraits) and touch-screen technology highlighting Dickensian sites around Medway. Wander the historic High Street ‘full of gables, with old beams’ to Eastgate House, aka Westgate House in The Pickwick Papers. In the garden you’ll find Dickens’ beloved Swiss Chalet, brought here from Gad’s Hill Place.

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KENT & HAMPSHIRE ENJOY A DICKENS OF A TIME - 4-DAY ITINERARY Afternoon Climb Norman Rochester Castle for bird’s eye views of Cloisterham (Edwin Drood) and Pip’s hometown spread out below. It’s said Dickens’ ghost haunts the grassy castle moat – a church graveyard in his time – because he wanted to be buried here but was honoured at Westminster Abbey instead. And is that Edwin Drood strolling in the garden by the cathedral? If you visit during the Dickens Festival, it could well be, as costumed characters take to the streets.

Come to Rochester again for its Dickensian Christmas, culminating with a Victorian parade through the town and carols – even snowfall is guaranteed. Maybe take a leaf out of Dickens’ book and stay as he did at The Royal Victoria and Bull Hotel. Or dine at award-winning restaurant Mr Topes: the property was Dickens’ model for the house of ‘Mr Tope, Chief Verger and Showman’ of Cloisterham, and lodging for Mr Datchery in The Mystery of Edwin Drood (call 01634 845270 for reservations).

Pick up a Tour through Dickensland itinerary from Rochester’s Visitor Information Centre and explore further the Medway villages, countryside and marshes where Charles loved to wander.

At Higham, 5km outside Rochester, look for Gad’s Hill Place, the Georgian home Dickens coveted on childhood walks with his father. He fulfilled his dream when he returned as a wealthy writer and bought it in 1856, living here until his death in 1870.

Maybe you recognise Scrooge’s boyhood ‘mansion of dull red brick’ from A Christmas Carol. Today it’s a school, but there are occasional public open days, and just across the road you can drop into the Sir John Falstaff Inn that Dickens patronised.

From Gad’s Hill, follow Dickens on a favourite walk to Cobham Hall and Park, also the venue for Mr Pickwick’s delightful June excursion. “If this were the place to which all who are troubled… came, I fancy their attachment to this world would very soon return,” he rejoiced. The Hall, now a girls’ boarding school, opens to the public on certain days during Easter and summer holidays (call 01474 823371). In Cobham village Dickens would test his storytelling skills by giving readings from his latest work at the half-timbered Leather Bottle inn. The Pickwickians also came here looking for love-struck Mr Tupman – little wonder the menu lists such dishes as Mr Pickwick sirloin steak. Or make a pilgrimage to Gravesend, popular departure point for emigrants – just like Mr Micawber and the Peggottys in David Copperfield.

Rochester www.medway.gov.uk/tourism

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KENT & HAMPSHIRE ENJOY A DICKENS OF A TIME - 4-DAY ITINERARY Evening

Afternoon

If you’re still hungry or thirsty, check out The Ship and Lobster, thought to be the inspiration for The Ship, one of the ‘lone public houses’ where Pip and Herbert rested during their attempt to get the convict Magwitch out of the country (Great Expectations). Close by at Chalk you’ll find three houses which all claim to have been Dickens’ honeymoon home, and don’t miss St James’ churchyard at Cooling, where poignant lozengeshaped tombs gave Dickens the idea for the graves of Pip’s little brothers.

If you’re peckish take a tip from Mr and Mrs Micawber, who entertained David to ‘a beautiful little dinner’ at the Sun: you’ve a choice between the Cathedral Gate Hotel and the Sun Hotel and Tea Rooms, as both claims to be the originals for Dickens’ fictional establishment.

Cobham Hall and Park www.cobhamhall.com/public.shtml Gad’s Hill School www.gadshill.org Gravesend www.towncentric.co.uk The Leather Bottle www.theleatherbottle.co.uk St James’s Church www.visitchurches.org.uk/content.php?nID=11&region=Kent&churchID=73 The Ship and Lobster www.shipandlobster.co.uk Sir John Falstaff Inn www.sirjohnfalstaff.co.uk

Evening For overnight stays, the House of Agnes on St Dunstans Street beckons – since Mr Wickfield reputedly lived here it has been lovingly refurbished as a hotel and has the largest walled garden in the city.

Canterbury Cathedral www.canterbury-cathedral.org Cathedral Gate Hotel www.cathgate.co.uk House of Agnes www.houseofagnes.co.uk The King’s School www.kings-school.co.uk Sun Hotel and Tea Rooms www.sunhotelandtearooms.co.uk

Day Four The rooks were sailing about the cathedral towers Morning Set course, now, for Canterbury. Dickens loved to visit from Gad’s Hill and on special occasions even drove in a carriage complete with red-jacketed postillions, which no doubt caused a stir! The city formed part of the proposed escape route from London for Sim Tappertit in Barnaby Rudge – its cobbled-street charm remains an escape for visitors today. Discover countless scenes from David Copperfield, popping up as though they had just been written: the cathedral and The King’s School that suggested Dr Strong’s establishment, ‘a grave building in a courtyard, with a learned air about it’. (Modern alumni include chef Antony Worrall Thompson – how would David Copperfield have got on with him.

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KENT ON THE TRAIL OF OLYMPIC ADVENTURE IN KENT - 7-DAY ITINERARY In 2012 London hosts the Olympic and Paralympic Games, and Kent, right next door, offers the perfect base for visiting: it’s less than 10 minutes by high-speed rail link to the Olympic Park. The Garden of England also provides its very own trail of Olympic and sporting adventure. Over 40 Olympians past and present have lived, trained or worked here and the county’s top-class facilities have been designated as 2012 training camps for competitors from around the world. Come on a tour of beautiful Kent and discover where so many Olympic dreams have first taken shape. Explore magical coast, countryside, cities and towns in the footsteps of world beating medal winners. Be inspired to have a go yourself, too: opportunities for watersports, cycling, and all sorts of indoor and outdoor fun abound. Choose your own pace, from a gentle ramble on the Kent Downs to adrenalinefuelled surfing around the Isle of Thanet! There’s plenty of wonderful sightseeing along the way, too.

Day One Dover Gateway to England Morning Dover, the shortest sea crossing from the Continent (32km/21 miles), has been a natural gateway to England for centuries. And in 1948 when London last hosted the Summer Games the historic coastal town provided the welcome point for the Olympic Torch. It was a first for both Dover and England because the 1908 London Games took place more than two decades before the Torch Relay tradition began.

The flame, setting out from Olympia in Greece, travelled in 1531 stages totalling 1160km (720 miles), and 1720 weatherproof torches – including spares – were manufactured to carry it on its way! Brought from Calais to Dover aboard HMS Bicester, a destroyer of the Nore Command, the flame then continued its relay via the Kent towns of Canterbury, Charing, Maidstone and Westerham, through Surrey and Berkshire and on to Wembley.

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KENT ON THE TRAIL OF OLYMPIC ADVENTURE IN KENT - 7-DAY ITINERARY What better place, then, to begin our tour than the ancient town of Dover. Today the Port of Dover bustles with 64 Channel crossings a day and handles trade worth £80bn a year. Turn back the clock for a moment and imagine Herbert Barnes, chief petty officer, bayonet fencing champion and all-round sportsman, receiving the Olympic Torch here aboard HMS Bicester in 1948.

White Cliffs Country is perfect for getting in shape – or just gently rambling amid stunning scenery. Shakespeare’s Cliff between Dover and Folkestone is the traditional start point for the famous cross-Channel swims. In 1967 six 12-year-old swimmers from Royal Tunbridge Wells Monson Swimming Club set a record for the youngest team to swim the English Channel and appeared in the Guinness Book of Records.

Then look beyond the town’s Georgian seafront and visit mighty Dover Castle. Known as ‘the key to England’, the fortress has been on the frontline of history for over nine centuries. Step inside the Great Tower and experience the sumptuously recreated medieval world of Henry II, a king who knew just how important it was to establish a magnificent welcome point for visitors arriving in England.

Samphire Hoe, created from the material dug to build the Channel Tunnel, is a superb haven for walks, wildflowers, birds and picnics, much of it accessible to wheelchairs.

Or combine walking with wildlife watching at Whinless Down and Western Heights nature reserves. And do step out along the iconic White Cliffs, taking 80m years of evolution in your stride – that’s how long it took for the iconic chalk edifice to form.

There’s a Visitor Centre, clifftop paths, and rare flora and fauna found only on this chalk grassland: all in all a ‘breathtaking’ finale to our day.

Next, drop into Dover Museum and Bronze Age Boat Gallery where, among many fascinating artefacts that tell the town’s story, you can view the world’s oldest known seagoing vessel. Discovered in 1992 during road building between Dover and Folkestone, the wooden boat is around 3550 years old and would have been propelled by at least 18 paddlers, while also carrying passengers, livestock and other cargo.

Technology in boat building has moved on a little since then, as Britain’s top rowers will tell you – among them Dover-born James Morgan and Alastair Mckean from Canterbury, who together won bronze in the LTA coxed fours at Beijing Paralympics 2008. James rows at Deal and Alastair at Herne Bay, and they may be the first of Kent’s water babies to be mentioned on our tour, but they are far from the last – which is hardly surprising given the county’s dazzling coastline and rivers.

Hilary Lister, although not an Olympian, has a remarkable a story of how she became the first disabled woman to sail solo around Britain. Hilary sailed clockwise along the coasts of Cornwall, Wales, The East Coast of Ireland, Scotland, The Caledonian Canal, The East Coast of England and home to the finish line in Dover. This was all done by sucking and blowing tubes to control the steering and sails of her ship.

The Market Square in Dover is one of 18 locations across the UK to be lucky enough to have a big screen erected in it; it will be the destination for news, events and live screenings of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012.

Afternoon

Evening Refresh: The Naafi restaurant at Dover Castle serves tasty food and drinks sourced from local Kent producers.

Overnight: Ramada Hotel Dover – www.ramadadover.co.uk The White Cliffs Hotel, Dover - www.thewhitecliffs.com The Marquis, Dover – www.themarquisatalkham.co.uk Wallett’s Court. St. Margaret’s-at-Cliffe – www.wallettscourt.com The Royal Hotel, Deal – www.theroyalhotel.com The Bell Hotel, Sandwich – www.bellhotelsandwich.co.uk Find out more: Dover Castle www.english-heritage.org.uk Dover Museum and Bronze Age Boat Gallery www.dovermuseum.co.uk Port of Dover www.doverport.co.uk Samphire Hoe www.samphirehoe.com The White Cliffs of Dover www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Feeling peckish, yet? In 1948, due to post-war rationing, many teams who attended the Olympic Games had to bring their own food with them. No need to today: you will find a good range of eateries in Dover, including at the castle. Then, nicely refuelled, spend the afternoon exploring the coast.

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Day Two Morning

Canterbury and Faversham

Follow the 1948 Olympic Torch Relay to Canterbury and you will discover a city that’s not only one of the oldest in England but also the stomping ground of many Olympians: the home town of equestrian star William Fox-Pitt, who picked up a bronze with Britain’s eventing team at Beijing 2008 and a silver for the same at Athens 2004. It’s home town, too, of Georgina Harland, Athens bronze medallist in the individual modern pentathlon: competing in five different sports – shooting, fencing, swimming, riding and cross-country – all in one day, makes hers one of the most demanding of Olympic challenges.

And that’s not all! Hockey player Sean Kerly, MBE, was a mainstay of Britain’s 1988 Olympic gold medal-winning squad in Seoul and he also scooped a team bronze at Los Angeles 1984: he still plays for Canterbury Hockey Club. In fact, the club has fielded a number of Olympians over the years, including Dover-born Melanie Clewlow (Sydney 2000, Beijing 2008) who also still wields a stick in Canterbury.

What to do and see in Canterbury? If you are after sporting action, check out the fixtures of Canterbury Hockey Club who play at PoloFarm Sports Club. Kent County Cricket Club also has a ground nearby on the Old Dover Road: what more pleasant, traditionally English way to pass a few hours on a summer’s day?

Or look up the internationally famous sights familiar to the sporting heroes who have lived and played in the city: including the magnificent World Heritage Site of Canterbury Cathedral, St Augustine’s Abbey and St Martin’s Church. For a change from browsing ancient cobbled streets, join Canterbury Historic River Tours and glide along the River Stour for some chauffeured sightseeing.

Tear yourself away from hockey, cricket and city heritage and there is another, rather curious Olympic connection a few miles away in the market town of Faversham. This was the birthplace of Lieutenant General Sir Philip Neame (1888-1978) (nephew of Percy Beale Neame, a founding father of the Kent-based Shepherd Neame brewing dynasty and great great grandfather of present Shepherd Neame chief executive Jonathan Neame), a British Army officer awarded the Victoria Cross for gallantry. He also won a gold medal as part of Britain’s 1924 Olympic Running Deer team in Paris: the only person to sport both Victoria Cross and Olympic Gold. In case you wonder – the Running Deer event, no longer in the Games, involved teams firing at moving targets that simulated deer.

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KENT ON THE TRAIL OF OLYMPIC ADVENTURE IN KENT - 7-DAY ITINERARY Afternoon ‘Running deer’ and Sir Philip may be gone, but there’s plenty to see and do in Faversham. The town was once a bustling port – follow the town trail to uncover stories of press gangs, smuggling and oysters. Abbey Street is among Britain’s most charming medieval streets and Shepherd Neame Brewery on Court Street is the country’s oldest brewer: book a tour and discover the secrets of its ales, you’ll be thirsty after a walk around town.

Evening Refresh: Canterbury is full of cosmopolitan restaurants and cafés. Maybe seek out the restaurant at the Goods Shed, Canterbury’s scrumptious farmers’ market.

Glorious Countryside Walking, cycling and horse riding routes are all just a step away from Canterbury.

Ramble a stretch of the long-distance North Downs Way, following the historic Pilgrim’s Way that medieval travellers came along to visit the tomb of St Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral. The ancient droveways of the breezy Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are also great for horse riding.

Or turn to pedal power and cycle the family-friendly 12km Crab and Winkle Way from Canterbury to Whitstable. The mainly traffic-free route takes its name from the railway line that once operated here and is dotted with modern sculptures and medieval earthworks. You could even extend your excursion – why limit the feelgood fun? – and spin around the Isle of Thanet peninsula on the 44km Viking Coastal Trail, combining attractive landscapes with historic places to visit.

Overnight: Abode, Canterbury – www.abodehotels.co.uk Canterbury Cathedral Lodge – www.canterburycathedrallodge.org Holiday Inn Express, Canterbury – www.hiexpresscanterbury.co.uk The Woolpack Inn, Chilham – www.woolpackinnchilham.co.uk University of Kent, Canterbury – www.kent.ac.uk/holidays Find out more: Canterbury www.canterbury.co.uk Canterbury Hockey Club www.polofarm.org Faversham www.faversham.org Kent County Cricket Club www.kentcc.com

Day Three Countryside or Coast

Afternoon and Evening Exhilarating Coast Quirky-chic Whitstable and fresh-air Herne Bay are just two coastal escapes that are quick to reach from Canterbury. Set sail in wonderful waters from Whitstable to Margate. Whiz across Herne Bay by jet ski.

Wherever you go along Kent’s coast you can dip your toes, find golden sand beaches for leisurely paddling and brisk waves for watersports. Catch the surf in Joss Bay or get to grips with kite surfing in Minnis Bay – its gently shelving beach is just right for beginners.

Enjoy yourself at your own pace, or learn from the experts with taster sessions and courses: canoeing, jet skiing, kite surfing, sailing, surfing, wakeboarding, waterskiing and windsurfing will all get the endorphins flowing. Who knows where your talents might lead?

Find out more:

Morning Just as Canterbury’s Olympians are diverse in their talents – horse riding, running, swimming and hockey – so there are exciting activities on the city’s doorstep to suit every taste, mood and ability. Countryside, river valleys, woods and hills, as well as beautiful beaches and coast are the perfect playground. Wind down on a walk or get buzzing with high adrenaline sports. Make a day of it or be inspired to base a short break around outdoor adventure.

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Make a day of it or a short break! For lots of ideas for walks, cycling and horse riding routes, hire facilities, and watersports venues see – www.kentsplash.co.uk; www.visitkent.co.uk/coast or www.visitkent.co.uk/explore

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Day Four Ashford to Royal Tunbridge Wells Morning Back en route, from Canterbury set course for Ashford in the hop and orchard country of the Weald. Travel via Charing if you want to follow the trail of the 1948 Olympic Torch.

The picturesque Heart of Kent countryside is perfect for exploring by bike or foot – little wonder that cycling ace Jamie Staff, who won gold in the team sprint at Beijing 2008, hails from Ashford, while Director of Sport at the University of Kent Louis Passfield has worked as a Sports Scientist with the British Cycling Olympic teams.

Runner Lisa Dobriskey, who narrowly missed medalling in the 1500m at Beijing, was also born in Ashford. And yet another local girl, sailor Sarah Ayton, OBE, one of the famous ‘Three Blondes in a Boat’, struck gold in the keelboat (yngling) event at both Beijing 2008 and Athens 2004.

If you are still in active mode from yesterday’s coast or countryside adventure, you could cycle all the way from Ashford to Royal Tunbridge Wells: it’s a 67km route along small country lanes through the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, taking in quintessential Garden of England scenery and picture-postcard villages. But it’s not flat, so be prepared to push those legs! The route forms part of the well signposted National Route 18.

For a more gently paced day by motor, begin with a browse of Ashford’s attractive streetscapes. It’s a welcoming market town where modern cafés stand in lively counterpoint to medieval, Georgian and Jacobean houses hidden down narrow alleyways.

Afternoon Then drive on via Tenterden – known as the ‘Jewel of the Weald’ thanks to its lovely architecture, ranging from white weather boarding to medieval timber framed buildings. Seems genteel? Behind the scenes there’s more than a little cut-and-thrust: fencer Ralph Johnson, who competed in the men’s individual and team épée at Mexico City 1968, Munich 1972, Montreal 1976 and, finally, the épée team at Los Angeles 1984, still pursues his sport at Tenterden Swords Fencing Club. Now in his 60s, he continues to win competitions, too!

For a romantic interlude, immerse yourself in the celebrated gardens of Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst, designed around the fairytale ruins of the 14th-century moated castle. Spectacular spring displays are followed by wisteria and roses in summer and rich autumn colours. Or, if you prefer, check out Lamberhurst Vineyard instead. Have a wander, take a guided tour, indulge in a wine tasting, and have a snack in the bistro.

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Scotney Castle Lamberhurst, Kent Index

KENT ON THE TRAIL OF OLYMPIC ADVENTURE IN KENT - 7-DAY ITINERARY The afternoon beckons and next up is Royal Tunbridge Wells, where the RTW Monson Swimming Club has a reputation since 1901 not only for encouraging young crossChannel record-breaking swimmers, but also Olympians: the earliest among them, Fred Dove, was at the Olympic Games in Berlin 1936. Later members have appeared at Moscow 1980, Los Angeles 1984, Seoul 1988, Barcelona 1992 and Atlanta 1996, while swimmer Darren Leach competed in two Paralympic Games, achieving medal successes in the category for blind participants.

Royal Tunbridge Wells has been a fashionable destination ever since the Chalybeate Spring was discovered here in 1606: you can still sample the water today, served in traditional style by a costumed ‘dipper’. Or maybe you’ll opt for refreshment in one of the town’s restaurants or cafés, before sauntering along the Pantiles – the town’s famous colonnaded shopping street.

Evening Ashford International Hotel – www.qhotels.co.uk Eastwell Manor Hotel and Spa, Ashford – www.eastwellmanor.co.uk Holiday Inn Ashford Central – www.holiday-inn.com/ashfordcentral Holiday Inn Ashford North – www.hiashford.com Hotel du Vin, Royal Tunbridge Wells – www.hotelduvin.com The Spa Hotel, Royal Tunbridge Wells – www.spahotel.co.uk Ramada Jarvis, Royal Tunbridge Wells – www.ramadajarvis.co.uk The New Flying Horse, Wye – www.newflyinghorsewye.co.uk Find out more: Heart of Kent www.visitheartofkent.com Scotney Castle www.nationaltrust.org.uk

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Day Five Tonbridge to Westerham Morning We begin our day in the market town of Tonbridge where, in the early 1980s, a 12year-old schoolgirl called Kelly Holmes was encouraged by her PE teacher to take up athletics and she joined Tonbridge Athletic Club. In 2004 when Pembridge-born Kelly returned from the Athens Olympics with gold medals in both the 800m and 1500m, more than 80,000 fans greeted her on a parade around her home towns of Tonbridge and Hildenborough. Now Dame Kelly, she still trains at Tonbridge School’s Sports Centre and lives at Hildenborough.

Fellow Athens medal winner Ian Wynne is also from Tonbridge: he scooped kayak bronze in the K-1 500m despite spraining his ankle the day before and arriving at the canoeing course on crutches!

Choose from two routes today: Tonbridge, then follow the final Kent leg of the 1948 Torch Relay route to Maidstone and Westerham. Or take a tip from heavyweight boxing legend Sir Henry Cooper, resident like Kelly Holmes at Hildenborough, and from Tonbridge visit his favourite building, Hever Castle, before rounding off the day at Westerham.

Firstly, picture the scene in 2004 when Kelly was feted with presentations and speeches on the lawns of motte and bailey Tonbridge Castle. Then ‘storm’ the massive 13th-century gatehouse and discover over 700 years of eventful history: of kings and archbishops, heroes and villains. Interactive displays, special effects and an audio tour excitingly recreate the life and times.

If you want to spend more time exploring, stroll the castle’s 5.6ha of landscaped lawns and gardens, take a short riverboat trip along the Medway, or become a water baby like Ian Wynne and hire a rowing boat.

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KENT ON THE TRAIL OF OLYMPIC ADVENTURE IN KENT - 7-DAY ITINERARY Afternoon Followers of the Olympic Torch should now head north to Maidstone, where historic attractions include the 14th-century Archbishops’ Palace (group tours by special arrangement, email tourism@maidstone.gov.uk). Then take a relaxing stroll through Maidstone Millennium River Park.

Alternatively head from Tonbridge to Hever Castle & Gardens, a quick jaunt to the west at Edenbridge. It’s not only boxers who fall under the castle’s spell: King Henry VIII romanced Anne Boleyn here before making her his second wife, and you’ll find lots of reminders of their dizzy affair and ill-fated marriage. Magnificent grounds surrounding the double-moated 13th-century castle include Italian Gardens, an intriguing yew maze, a splashing water maze, an hour-long lake walk and children’s adventure playground.

From either Maidstone or Hever, continue on to Westerham. Sir Winston Churchill, wartime prime minister and personification of the famous British bulldog spirit that also fires so many sportsmen, lived here at Chartwell. He loved the breathtaking views over the Weald of Kent – have a good look, they are captivating. Indoors, rooms are packed with Churchill’s personal memorabilia; outdoors, you can wander the terraced gardens and admire the lakes he created, as well as Lady Churchill’s Rose Garden.

Evening Refresh: Choose from an array of restaurants and pubs in Maidstone, with fare ranging from English to Italian and Chinese. Alternatively enjoy the new Guthrie Pavilion with lake views or the Moat Restaurant at Hever Castle.

Overnight: Chilston Park Hotel – www.handpickedhotels.co.uk Hilton Maidstone – www.hilton.co.uk/maidstone Tudor Park, a Marriott Hotel and Country Club – www.marriotttudorpark.co.uk The Village Hotel – www.village-hotels.co.uk Find out more: Heart of Kent www.visitheartofkent.com Maidstone www.tour-maidstone.com

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The maze at Hever Castle Kent Index

KENT ON THE TRAIL OF OLYMPIC ADVENTURE IN KENT - 7-DAY ITINERARY

Day Six

Evening

the home of Charles Darwin and the World Garden of Plants

Refresh: Enjoy Shepherd Neame’s Kentish Ales and excellent food made with locally sourced produce at The Crown Inn, Chislehurst or try out one of the other great Kentish pubs scattered throughout the countryside.

Morning London’s Olympic Park will create a green backdrop to the Games 2012 with trees and thousands of wetland plants. There will also be gardens that celebrate the British passion for horticulture, tracing the journey of the UK’s plant collectors around the globe, through more than 250 species of plants, trees, meadows and herbs. Here’s your chance to get ahead of the field because Kent already has its very own World Garden. It has another gem, too, which throws light on the theory of the ‘Survival of the Fittest’, a phrase, no doubt, that from a stamina point of view spurs many an Olympian to glory!

Olympic bronze and two-times silver medal winning javelin thrower Steve Backley, OBE, claims Sidcup for his home town and he went to primary school in Orpington.

Scarcely a javelin’s throw away, at Downe, is The Home of Charles Darwin who authored the groundbreaking works, On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection and Descent of Man. While Darwin was not the first to coin the phrase ‘Survival of the Fittest’, he certainly acknowledged its accuracy and his theories are often thus neatly summed up. Push open the door to his home and see where the great Victorian carried out many of the experiments that led to his revolutionary ideas. Then trace his steps on his ‘thinking path’ in the garden.

Overnight: Thistle Hotel, Brands Hatch – www.thistle.com/hotels/dartford Hilton Dartford Bridge – www.hilton.co.uk/dartfordbridge Holiday Inn, Bexley – www.ichotelsgroup.com Marriott Bexleyheath – www.bexleyheathmarriott.co.uk Rowhill Grange Hotel and Utopia Spa – www.rowhillgrange.com The Crown Inn, Chislehurst – www.crownchislehurst.co.uk Find out more: The Home of Charles Darwin www.english-heritage.org.uk/downhouse Lullingstone Castle & The World Garden of Plants www.lullingstonecastle.co.uk

Afternoon Awaken your senses further with an afternoon at Lullingstone Castle & The World Garden of Plants, Eynsford. Intrepid modern plant hunter Tom Hart Dyke, whose ancestors have lived at Lullingstone since the 15th century, had the idea for the UK’s first ever world garden back in 2000 and he has gone on to create a miniature landscape in which plants from around the globe grow in their respective countries of origin. Rare highlights include the Dinosaur Tree (Wollemi Pine), the oldest tree in the world, which Tom has planted close to his Ayers Rock in the Australian border. This is one place where you don’t need to be a superhuman marathon runner to complete a world tour in just an hour or two!

Downe House Kent Index

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Day Seven Dartford to Maritime Medway Morning It’s our final day and we are on the very brink of 2012. Kent is so close to the Olympic Park, it’s no wonder that its top-class facilities will be used by visiting competitors as well as home-grown talent. Dartford Judo Club is a base for the British Judo Association to prepare for the forthcoming Games; it is also named as an official training venue for foreign teams in the lead up to the Olympics and Paralympics.

Just a few miles away is Gillingham’s new £11 million Medway Park, an approved training camp for no fewer than 13 Olympic and eight Paralympic sports. Look out in the meantime for top sporting events taking place here.

Previous Olympians from the area include Ann Packer, who won gold (800m) and silver (400m) at Tokyo 1964, just a year after graduating from Dartford College of Physical Education. Frank Sando, who ran in the 10000m in Helsinki (1952) and Melbourne (1956), is a life member of Medway and Maidstone Athletic Club, while Gary Smith, trampolinist in Athens 2004, was born in Chatham, lived in Rainham and trained in Gillingham.

Medway Park is the official sports and activities zone of the new Great Lines Heritage Park located above Chatham. You could begin your day in Great Lines: 70ha (70ha) of parkland offering superb views over the River Medway, Fort Amherst, The Historic Dockyard Chatham and towards Rochester. Enjoy a breath of fresh air, a stretch of the legs, and a good look at an historic maritime panorama. Then choose which of the attractions, laid out before you, to visit.

Perhaps put your walking shoes on and follow Victorian author Charles Dickens around Rochester – he was an insatiable rambler who often covered 35km in a day and would surely have bagged a gold medal in long distance walking, if only the modern Olympics had been invented in his lifetime! By coincidence, 2012 when the Games come to London also marks the bicentenary of his birth. A leaflet, In Dickens’ Footsteps (available from the Visitor Information Centre on the High Street), will take you to the places he made famous in his novels, including ancient Rochester Cathedral and Rochester Castle.

Rochester Cathedral Kent 134

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KENT ON THE TRAIL OF OLYMPIC ADVENTURE IN KENT - 7-DAY ITINERARY Afternoon Then our afternoon opens up with a variety of exciting possibilities. Dive into the past at The Historic Dockyard Chatham. Time travel 400 years (faster than any Olympic runner) across 32ha, climb aboard three historic warships, and check out No. 1 Smithery: the stimulating new cultural venue and centre for world-class maritime collections.

Or complete your Olympic trail through Kent on an activity high. Test your ‘winter sporting’ skills at Chatham Ski and Snowboard Centre – jump in a Sno-tube on the cresta run! The Ice Bowl and Strand Leisure Park, both in Gillingham, entice with the contrasting challenges of ice-skating and tennis, swimming or crazy golf: all great for the kids and young at heart. Then settle the pulse rate back down at Riverside Country Park, on the Medway estuary, watching wildlife that inhabit the mudflats, salt marsh, ponds and reed-beds.

Evening Refresh: Rochester is Medway’s gourmet hotspot, including English, Continental and Asian fare and summer outdoor dining along the High Street’s pedestrian areas. Or savour the waterfront setting of the new restaurant quarter at Chatham Maritime.

Overnight: Bridgewood Manor Hotel, Chatham – www.qhotels.co.uk Holiday Inn Rochester – www.holiday-inn.co.uk The Ship and Trades, Chatham Maritime – www.shipandtradeschatham.co.uk Find out more: Chatham Ski and Snowboard Centre www.chathamskislope.co.uk Dartford Judo Club www.dartfordjudoclub.com The Historic Dockyard Chatham www.thedockyard.co.uk The Ice Bowl www.theicebowl.co.uk Medway www.medway.gov.uk/tourism Medway Park www.medwaypark.com Riverside Country Park www.medway.gov.uk/tourism Strand Leisure Park www.medway.gov.uk The Historic Dockyard Chatham Kent Index

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LANCASHIRE PRESTON 3-DAY ITINERARY Vibrant and exciting, Preston is England's newest city, located at the heart of the North West.

Preston is an ancient market town first documented in the Domesday Survey of 1086. It received its first Royal Charter in 1179, and is unique in that it famously holds the Preston Guild every 20 years - with the next celebration due to take place in 2012.

Its convenient location, just off the M6, makes Preston easily accessible by road from almost anywhere in the country. In addition, it boasts a large railway station dating back to the 1800s, which is a central route on many high-speed main lines.

Preston's proud heritage includes some remarkable structures and more than 750 listed buildings. Some examples include the Grade I listed Harris Museum and Art Gallery, Preston Guild Hall, Lancashire Museum and St Walburge's Church, as well as several Victorian gardens and parks.

A fusion of old and new, these historic parks and buildings mingle with new developments and iconic modern architecture, including the the Sir Tom Finney splash statue.

Preston is a culturally diverse city, with communities from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds living side by side. The various cultures are celebrated with a host of unique festivals throughout the year, including the Caribbean Carnival, Mela and Chinese New Year.

Outside the hustle and bustle of the city centre visitors can enjoy the tranquillity of Preston's seven major parks, the waterfront at Riversway Docklands and the tradition of rural Lancashire villages and leafy suburbs.

Most poignant for 2012 is the city’s Guild programe - an historic celebration dating back to 1179. It is the only Guild still celebrated in the UK and as such is unique. The 2012 celebration will be the first Guild in the 21st century and the first since the granting of Preston’s city status in 2002. Held only once every twenty years, the Guild plays an important role in the development of Preston as a thriving and important Lancashire city. The changing times mean that each Guild has its own identity but shares a heritage of over 800 years.

Residents and visitors, artists and businesses, athletes and performers – everyone gets involved in Preston Guild. The Guild has a long history and has evolved over the centuries, but one thing that has always remained the central focus of the Guild is people -the people who plan it, participate in it, promote it and the people who tell their stories of the Guild to children and grandchildren.

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Newton in forest of Bowland Lancashire Index

LANCASHIRE PRESTON 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day One

Evening

Morning

Free time in Preston City Centre

Depart from London Euston to Preston by train in just two and half hours. Preston is served by Manchester airport – one hour flight plus one hour transfer to Preston.

Preston city centre and beyond boasts a wide selection of eateries, from fine dining through to casual eating – each of which can be found in this link. www.visitpreston.com/food-drink/restaurants/

Tickled Trout Hotel for check-in. www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/our-hotels/macdonald-tickled-trout-hotel/ Offering a warm welcome to Preston, this hotel offers stunning views over the beautiful River Ribble, yet is conveniently close to Preston Town Centre (2 miles).The venue has retained many traditional features, such as wood beams in our restaurant and an open plan lounge, creating a warm and welcoming ambience.

Possible pre-arranged opportunity to dine with Paul Heathcote in his award winning Longridge Restaurant. www.longridgerestaurant.co.uk/ The Longridge has won nearly every accolade from Michelin Stars, Red Rosettes, and Paul Heathcote is a previous holder of the Egon Ronay Chef of the Year.

This option will require pre-arranged confirmation via g.hewitt@preston.gov.uk or s.edgar@preston.gv.uk who will be happy to facilitate this opportunity with Paul.

Afternoon Visit museum of Lancashire & Harris Museum and Art Gallery.

Supporting the theme of Heritage and History, a fitting start to any visit to Preston during Guild 2012 Year will be with a trip to The Harris Museum and Art Gallery www.harrismuseum.org.uk/. This is an important regional museum which holds exciting collections including fine art, decorative art, costume and textiles, history and photography. Many of the collections are of regional, national and international significance.

During the summer of 2012 - to mark the Guild Year - The Harris Museum also will have a new History Gallery opening as a result of over £1.5 million funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund amongst a range of other funders.

The Museum of Lancashire www.lancashire.gov.uk/acs/sites/museums/ is just a few minutes walk from the Harris Museum and has recently opened following 12 month refurbishment project. The new look family friendly museum will give you a flavour of everything Lancashire. Journey back through time and discover 2000 years of Lancashire's history. Try your hand at archaeology, become a judge or the accused in our mock court room and experience the sounds and smells of life as a soldier in our WW1 trench. From comedians to criminals, local heroes to revolutionary inventors, find out about the people, industries and traditions that have made Lancashire a great and unique place.

Return to Ticked Trout for free time Index

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LANCASHIRE PRESTON 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two Morning The Ribble Steam Railway www.ribblesteam.org.uk This morning’s visit will not only give you the opportunity to travel along a 1½ mile dock and riverside line in a traditional steam powered engine, but also access the newly built museum and workshop where the restoration work takes place and the lovingly restored locomotives are displayed.

Trains leave on the hour from the museum Platform (Preston Riverside) for the 3 mile, 35 minute round trip. The museum building is continually being updated and improved to give visitors a truly interactive look into the fascinating industrial railway history of the North West of England.

Specific times and operating dates for 2012 to be agreed.

Afternoon Option 1: (Between May – Nov) City Guided Tours Continuing with the Heritage Theme, between May and November every Wednesday at 2pm the afternoon will consist of a choice of guided tours hosted by a group of self-employed, local tourist guides. The Lancashire Blue Badge Guides have a wide range of specialities and interests and can guide on foot, on coaches, in cars, on boats and on trains.

The Blue Badge is the internationally acclaimed qualification for professional tourist guides, and is the highest qualification awarded by the Institute of Tourist Guiding. www.nwtours.co.uk/ www.visitlancashire.com/inspire-me/groups/blue-badge-guides www.visitlancashire.com/dbimgs/Guided-Heritage-Walks-Leaflet-2011.pdf

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Option 2: Avenham and Miller Parks Recently restored to their Victorian splendour - Avenham and Miller Parks offer some tranquil relaxation to the trip. Just a stone throw away from the busy city centre Avenham and Miller Parks join to become one of the most beautiful parklands that Lancashire has to offer visitors. Also two of Preston’s key entertainment venues hosting a wide range of events the parks can be enjoyed on foot as part of a gentle riverside stroll, on two wheels along a cycle route.

Evening Option 1: Cocktail Factory at Fives www.fives.co.uk www.cocktailfactory.co.uk Not only has The Cocktail Factory revolutionised Preston bar culture, it has probably made an indent on bar culture all over the world. The concept of their cocktail menu is completely unique, offering a drinking experience never seen before, boasting as one of Preston’s finest social assets. The mystical yet alluring atmosphere, situated in the basement of the Fives complex, where bartenders enthusiasm and attention to detail never fails to electrify. It is the theatrical presentation and pursuit for perfection that sets Cocktail Factory aside, with pure dedication and love obvious throughout.

Option 2: Real Ale Trail www.westlancscamra.org.uk If you would much rather enjoy a pint than a pinacolada then the Preston real ale trail might be for you. Pubs listed in the trail include The Wellington and The Old Black Bull in the city centre and The New Continental just next to the beautiful Avenham and Miller Parks. Preston often hosts meeting of the local branch of Camra (campaign for real ale) - A copy of the Preston Cask Ale trail can be obtained from the Tourist Information Centre.

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LANCASHIRE PRESTON 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Three Morning Retail therapy www.visitpreston.com/shopping From the quaint side streets of Preston for a selection of independent boutiques, gift shops, jewellers and salons to the familiar high street stores in the various shopping malls.

There will also be time to sample the city’s traditional indoor and outdoor market.

Here you can pick up anything from plants to clothing and an array of fresh produce including Lancashire Cheeses, Goosnargh Chicken and Bowland meats and much more.

Afternoon After a morning of shopping a trip to Brockholes Nature Reserve is the perfect way to unwind and relax. www.brockholes.org Starting at the 'Orme Sight' adjacent to the Bowland Visitor Centre & Café, the shaded forested paths, and conifer woods to the summit of Beacon Fell envelope you with greenery during summer and autumnal browns and golds later in the year. Along the trail you will also come across a snake, a bat and a 50ft heron. All the sculptures were carved from local materials by local artist Thompson Dagnall.

PRESTON GUILD 2012 In addition to the attractions set out in this itinerary, Preston’s 2012 Guild year will include a comprehensive programme of creative, innovative and inspiring events devised and delivered in association with community groups, partners and sponsors from Preston and across the North West. The highlight of the year will take place during Guild week 1st – 9th September with an intensive festival programme ranging from traditional, civic events, through to ground-breaking spectacular projects that promise to entertain and delight all those involved – spectators and partakers alike.

Full details of this programme are yet to be confirmed, however updates will be posted on the website http://www.prestonguild2012.com/events For further information please contact: Sally Edgar / Gayle Hewitt Preston Guild Preston City Council, Preston Guild Hall, Preston PR11HQ 01772 906767 s.edgar@preston.gov.uk g.hewitt@preston.gov.uk Find out the latest from Preston Guild 2012 HQ on our blog www.prestonguild2012.com/blog/ or follow us on Twitter http://twitter.com/Guild2012 or join our Facebook group Preston Guild 2012.

News releases will also be available in the press pages of www.prestonguild2012.com Notes to editors:

Evening Enjoy your last night in Preston at Lancshire’s premier music venue Mad Ferret www.themadferret.net

Preston Guild is a historic celebration dating back to 1179, and represents a significant element of the North West’s rich cultural heritage and tourism offer. The holding of the Guild was a major occasion and the cause of much celebration across the city.

Preston Guild is the only Guild still celebrated in the UK and as such is unique.

The Mad prides itself on its promotion of local and unsigned music allowing performers the chance to come and play in the often packed out surroundings of its 180+ capacity room. Programme of artists and dates for 2012 unconfirmed at this stage.

WE PLAY expo is the finale celebration of the Northwest’s cultural contribution to the build-up and legacy of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and will showcase at Preston Guild 2012 from 7th - 9th September 2012.

WE PLAY EXPO is a co-production between WE PLAY and Preston Guild 2012 funded by the Legacy Trust UK, an independent charity set up to build a lasting cultural and sporting legacy from the 2012 games.

Preston Guild 2012 is supported by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.

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LINCOLNSHIRE HISTORIC LINCOLN – 3-DAY ITINERARY Lincoln is one of England's finest small cities. Rich in history, an important Roman City, a Castle built by William the Conqueror and Europe's finest example of a Gothic Cathedral (that you may recognise from the film Da Vinci Code). Also the University City of Lincoln boasts a vibrant waterfront area, Steep Hill - winner of Britain's Best Street 2012 an, excellent independant retail offer AND great local produce from across Lincolnshire - the larder of England.

Day One Morning Depart from London Kings Cross to Lincoln by train in just 2 hours. Lincoln is in the East Midlands and a must see historic city for any visitor to England.

Afternoon On arrival at the City centre station enjoy lunch in the City. Lincoln boasts a range of independent eateries from the award winning Cheese Society to the traditional English Pub.

Brayfords pool and cathedral Lincoln, Lincolnshire

Get to know the city with a open top bus tour and a boat trip on the Brayford Belle from the vibrant Brayford Waterfront area. Personal guides will be arranged.

Evening Dine - at The Old Bakery. Enjoy freshly prepared meals of the highest standard (two AA Rosette) in Lincoln's award winning independent restaurant. Head Chef Ivano Di Servio recently appeared on 'Britain's Best Dish - The chefs' an ITV1 programme.

Meeting Ivano Di Servio can be arranged. www.theold-bakery.co.uk/

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Stay - Accommodation can be booked according to your taste. Lincoln has a newly opened DoubleTree by Lincoln Hotel with stunning views over Lincoln Cathedral and the Brayford Waterfront.

Alternatively, you may wish to stay in Lincoln's Historic Cathedral Quarter in the recently refurbished and very stylish Castle Hotel or the charming White Hart Hotel with views overlooking the Cathedral. www.doubletree.hilton.co.uk/lincoln www.castlehotel.net/ www.whitehart-lincoln.co.uk/

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LINCOLNSHIRE HISTORIC LINCOLN – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Day Three

Morning

Morning

Your second day begins with a personal guided tour of Lincoln Cathedral. This awe inspiring building sits at the top of the city and can be seen for miles around. Explore the Wren library where you can see the earliest reference to Robin Hood in a book of poems, see the Deans Eye and visit the workshops where stained glass, stonemasonry and other crafts are still carried out on site today. http://lincolncathedral.com/

Head out of the city to RAF Scampton - home of the Red Arrows. Once home to Guy Gibson, famous for leading the 'Dambusters Raid'. Guided tours, interviews and seeing Red Arrows are available subject to advance notice. 2012 is Lincolnshire's Year of Aviation.

After exploring the Cathedral your guide will take you to Lincoln Castle, built in 1068 on the order of William the Conqueror. The Castle houses one of only four surviving copies of the 1215 Magna Carta and is the only place where Magna Carta & Charter of the Forest can be seen together.

A new Heritage Skills Centre will be opened in the Castle grounds. www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/visiting/historic-buildings/lincoln-castle/

www.visitlincolnshire.com/aviation/ www.raf.mod.uk/rafscampton/ Visit Hemswell Antiques Centre - the largest Antique Centre in Europe! Explore over 300 display areas (guided tours showing the most interesting are available on request). www.hemswell-antiques.com/ Enjoy lunch at nearby Hemswell Court before heading to Doddington Hall.

Afternoon Afternoon Dine in Browns Pie Shop - a famous independent restaurant on Steep Hill, Britain's Best Street 2012, serving mouth watering pies! http://www.brownspieshop.co.uk/ Explore the Bailgate area of Lincoln where independent boutiques make an excellent shopping experience. Enjoy Steep Hill, Britain's Best Street and visit The Collection and The Usher Gallery two very interesting attractions.

Doddington Hall is a much loved family home and has never been sold since it was built in 1595 by Robert Smythson, one of England’s foremost Elizabethan architects. The mellow brick exterior with its walled courtyards has barely changed while the interior was redecorated in Georgian times in a light and elegant style. The original walled courtyards now enclose fabulous ornamental gardens and a productive vegetable garden, whilst beyond the walls you will discover romantic wild gardens and nature walks.

Evening

Lived in by owner Claire Birch and family, the hall gardens, farm shop and new India Jane Interiors shop are all of exceptional quality and highly fascinating. Specialist tours can be arranged based on your interest (kitchen garden, porcelain, architecture etc).

Dine - at The Old Bakery. Enjoy freshly prepared meals of the highest standard (two AA Rosette)

Enjoy a tour with Claire and spend time exploring this Elizabethan home. www.doddingtonhall.com/

Evening Enjoy an early evening supper at Doddington Hall in the restaurant, serving locally sourced produce using ingredients of the highest quality.

Return to Lincoln. Depending on availability and dates - catch a show/band/performance at one of the arts venues in the city.

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LINCOLNSHIRE CULTURE, COUNTRYSIDE AND CUISINE – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day One Morning Depart from London Kings Cross for Skegness, Lincolnshire. Journey time three hours.

Afternoon Guided tour of one of Britain’s most popular seaside resorts, Skegness, and one that is fast becoming Europe’s leading cultural hot spot.

Evening Dinner at Gunby Hall – a beautiful National Trust building with wonderful grounds. A Taste of Lincolnshire dinner. Lincolnshire is Britain’s favourite food spot, as voted by the public in a recent poll with Love British Food.

Day Two Morning Stretch your legs in the stunning landscape of the Lincolnshire Wolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and meet Wolds historian and artist Pete Skipworth who has walked every inch of the Wold and given him breath taking inspiration for his paintings.

Afternoon Visit one of the country’s prettiest Georgian market towns, Louth. Take a trip up the tallest church spire in England and visit specialist shops boasting some of the very best awarding winning produce, including cheeses and meats.

Evening An evening hosted at the Brakenborough Hall Coach House, the site of a deserted medieval village with excellent and awarding winnning accommodation, great food great history and great company.

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Vikingway Path The Wolds, Lincolnshire Index

LINCOLNSHIRE CULTURE, COUNTRYSIDE AND CUISINE – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Three Morning A look back at World War heritage at RAF East Kirby Museum and the chance to see one of only two flying Lancaster Bombers at the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

Afternoon To the historic city of Lincoln via Tattershall Castle, another National Trust venue.

The Castle, cathedral and cobbled streets of Lincoln are a sight to behold.

Evening A leisurely train journey back from Lincoln Central to London Kings Cross. Journey time two hours.

Lincoln Cathedral Lincoln, Lincolnshire Index

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LINCOLNSHIRE SKEGNESS – 3-DAY ITINERARY Under Lincolnshire’s breathtaking big skies the coast and countryside of East Lindsey offers visitors an unrivalled experience. East Lindsey is home to one of England’s best loved resorts, Skegness, which has been entertaining visitors for generations.

A step inland takes you to a whole new world of the rolling hills of the Lincolnshire Wolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which nestles in between historic market towns steeped in heritage and where the locals are ‘proud as punch’ that Lincolnshire was voted Britain’s favourite food spot, no surprise really given the vast array of local produce that is grown, reared and made by passionate folk who are eager to welcome you.

As well as amazing countryside and award winning beaches, East Lindsey plays host to major national and international events – including cultural festivals, great heritage sites and sport.

Day One Morning Depart from London Kings Cross for Skegness, Lincolnshire.

Afternoon Guided tour of one of Britain’s most popular seaside resorts, Skegness, and one that is fast becoming Europe’s leading cultural hot spot.

Evening Dinner at Gunby Hall – a beautiful National Trust building with wonderful grounds.

Skegness Beach Skegness, Lincolnshire 144

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LINCOLNSHIRE SKEGNESS – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two Morning Walk in the Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the chance to meet Wolds historian Peter Skipworth.

Afternoon Visit to one of the country’s oldest market towns, Louth. A trip to the tallest church spire in England and the chance to visit specialist shops boasting some of the very best awarding winning produce, including cheeses and meats.

Evening An evening hosted at the Brakenborough Hall Coach House, a medieval site with excellent accommodation, great food and lots of history.

Day Three Morning A look back at World War heritage at RAF East Kirby Museum and the chance to see one of only two flying Lancaster Bombers at the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

Afternoon To the historic city of Lincoln via Tattershall Castle, another National Trust venue.

The Castle, cathedral and cobbled streets of Lincoln are a sight to behold.

Evening A leisurely train journey back from Lincoln Central to London Kings Cross.

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MILTON KEYNES 3-DAY ITINERARY Milton Keynes is described as the “city in the country“ with over 4500 acres of green space in and around this new city created just 40 years ago. You can discover history, be a shopaholic, experience thrills and spills, and get a little bit of culture into your life in one amazing destination just 35 minutes from London.

Day One Morning Depart from London Euston to Milton Keynes Central by train. Journey takes between 35-45 minutes depending on service used. London Luton Airport is a 30-minute drive from Milton Keynes.

Afternoon Visit Xscape for some thrillseeking activities; try indoor skiing or sledging on the real snow ski slope at SNO!zone and indoor sky-diving at Airkix.

Evening Meal in Theatre District followed by a production at Milton Keynes Theatre offering musicals, comedy, opera, ballet, drama and much more.

Day Two Morning Visit to Bletchley Park, “home of the famous WWII codebreakers” and known as Station X during the war. This is where the German Enigma code was broken and Colossus, the world’s first programmable computer was invented.

Afternoon Off to Willen Lake to cycle around the two lakes and take in some nature, plus you can experience the high ropes course at Aerial Extreme or go wake-boarding at WakeMK. 146

Milton Keynes Theatre Bedfordshire Index

MILTON KEYNES 3-DAY ITINERARY Evening Either a spectator sport maybe live pro-league basketball with the MK Lions, a visit to The Stables music venue or participate in one of the activities during the International Festival:MK (20-29 July 2012)

Day Three Morning A visit to some of the surrounding historic market towns incorporated into the development of MK, e.g. Stony Stratford, Olney or Newport Pagnell and maybe take in a farmer’s market.

Afternoon A visit to Woburn Abbey or Woburn Safari Park (car required for the Safari Park). The Abbey is home to the Duke Bedford and is set in a 1200ha deer park. It houses one of the most impressive collections of art, furniture and porcelain on public view in the UK. The safari park is the UK’s largest where visitors can see lions, tigers and elephants up close and personal.

Evening Relax in the restaurant quarter of The Hub near the city centre which offers an impressive list of restaurants and cuisines to choose from.

Woburn Abbey Bedfordshire Index

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THE NATIONAL FOREST A NEW DESTINATION DRENCHED IN HISTORY - 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day One Morning Depart from London St Pancras to Loughborough by train in just 1 hour, 19 mins.

(This university market town is the training venue for the British and Japanese Olympic teams). National Forest staff will collect journalists from the station and provide an overview of this Forest in the Making.

The ambitious goal to transform one of the country’s least wooded regions into a new Forest for the nation is happening in the very Heart of England. More than 200 square miles of town and countryside straddling parts of Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire are being dramatically transformed with the ultimate goal is for new woodland to link the ancient forests of Charnwood and Needwood. The tree planting within The National Forest has taken place over the last 15 years but the destination is rich in its fascinating heritage and history stretching back 1000s of years.

From Loughborough we will drive through Coalville to Snibston Discovery Museum which, located on the site of a former deep-shaft coalmine and offering colliery tours, encapsulates the industrial heritage of Leicestershire.

Afternoon With peeling paintwork and overgrown courtyards Calke Abbey tells the story of the dramatic decline of the country house estate. Explore this fascinating National Trust house, the beautiful walled garden and Calke Park which, with its 1000-year old oaks and ancient deer park, is a National Nature Reserve.

Evening Burton-upon-Trent is famous throughout the world for the production of beer, with a brewing heritage stretching back to the middle ages. Formerly the Bass Museum, the National Brewery Centre is a world-class museum and visitor centre that celebrates Burton upon Trent’s proud brewing heritage. Brilliant holograms and costumed characters from the brewery’s past stroll around the centre and truly bring the history of brewing, beer and Burton to life. The brewing experience includes beer tasting, magnificent shire horses, and a brand new micro brewery. We will then stroll up the road to sample beers from an independent micro-brewery with a traditional pub (complete with old-fashioned skittles alley).

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Calke Abbey Derbyshire Index

THE NATIONAL FOREST A NEW DESTINATION DRENCHED IN HISTORY - 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Afternoon

Morning

Bradgate Park is our next stop - a ‘must-see’. Deer roam freely around the park’s majestic trees and a river meanders by the ruins of the home of Lady Jane Grey - the former nine day queen. When Jane was be-headed at the Tower of London in 1554, all of the trees on the park were also be-headed as a mark of respect. These ancient and gnarly stunted trees can still be seen today.

Day two will still have a historic theme but journalists will also see here how The National Forest is creating a new heritage in the making across the landscape.

Conkers Discovery Centre is The National Forest in microcosm showcasing how the Forest is transforming the landscape. It focuses on life in a British woodland with trails, habitats and ranger activities. Set on the site of three coal mines, this awardwinning visitor attraction also has more than a hundred interactive exhibits, the Bare Foot Walk and assault course.

Evening Our last visit will be to the former iron Age fort, Beacon Hill, with its ancient rocks and stunning views over Charnwood before returning to Loughborough station.

Afternoon The steam trains of the Battlefield Line whistle their way from Shackerstone Station to Bosworth Battlefield - where King Richard III, lost his crown to Henry VII in the final battle of the War of the Roses. With fantastic interactive displays and new trails, Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre brings to life this historic event - The death of a King and the birth of the all-powerful Tudor dynasty.

Evening We can watch the sun set from the stunning Armed Force Memorial at the remarkable National Memorial Arboretum. With more than 50,000 trees, a stunning wildflower meadow and over 160 major memorials the arboretum provides a relaxing place where current and future generations can reflect, whilst wandering through the growing woodland.

Day Three Morning We will see the bed in which Richard III slept before he went off to battle at the medieval manor house, Donington le Heath and enjoy real English cream tea in its barn restaurant.

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Richard III standard Bosworth Field, Leicestershire 149

NORFOLK VINTAGE, NOSTALGIC & STYLISH NORWICH - 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day One Morning Depart from London Liverpool Street by train to Norwich and arrive in just under two hours. Norwich is an historic city dominated by its magnificent Norman cathedral, boasting the largest cloisters in England and the second tallest spire in the country.

Norwich is proud of its past and present status, its ancient buildings mixed with a contemporary offer of vintage shops, flagship stores and pavement cafes makes it a city of character and individuality. In medieval times Norwich was one of the greatest cities in England, and today, as East Anglia’s capital city, it still is – offering a rare blend of historic interest and modern sophistication.

From the station, head to The Cathedral Quarter where you will find Hayley Draper an award winning barista makingTHE most delicious coffee. Hayley’s passion is coffee and you will see this in abundance at The Window Coffee where you are sure to receive the warmest welcome in what is said to be the smallest coffee house in the world! Enjoy your coffee with delicious home-made cakes and local chocolate. WOW! Continue on to Elm Hill. Elm Hill is Norwich’s most famous medieval street, almost the same in appearance now as it was when most of its properties were last rebuilt, after the major fire of 1507. Wander up and down to admire the listed buildings, explore its many courtyards or take some time to sit and enjoy the surroundings in Elm Hill Gardens. Elm Hill offers an eclectic choice of shops to discover including antiques, second-hand bookshops, curiosities and vintage regalia.

Not to be missed is The Britons Arms Coffee House where you can enjoy drinks, lunch or afternoon tea in 15th century surroundings that are quite magical. In summer move outside and make the most of the beautiful but small roof top garden, in winter snuggle up with a steaming hot drink and home-made slice of cake in front of the roaring fire. At Christmas you couldn’t imagine being in a more perfect place.

Norwich Cathedral Norfolk 150

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NORFOLK VINTAGE, NOSTALGIC & STYLISH NORWICH - 3-DAY ITINERARY Afternoon This afternoon take yourself off to discover the secrets of The Textile and Costume Study Centre where you can view over 44000 items of clothing and accessories from the 1870s to the 1980s. See bustles and corsets, uniforms and underwear even the most exquisite children’s shoes made of the softest leather.

All rooms are en-suite and spacious and all bedrooms have at least one fireplace and include flat screen tv's, with built-in dvd and satellite, complimentary tea and cafetiere, fresh milk and mineral water, wi-fi access, hairdryers, goose down duvets and pillows.

Bathrooms all have roll top Victorian style baths with shower over, top quality towels and luxury toiletries.

Entry is free you just have to make an appointment in advance of your visit.

Another highly exciting offering from the collection is the magnificent number of vintage magazines with copies of Vogue from the 1950s. You are even allowed to flick and read through them!

Evening Drinks and dinner at The Library Restaurant Bar and Grill. Housed in Norwich’s old library directly opposite the Guildhall and market place you will find The Library restaurant which is a gift of a venue, literally jaw dropping in grandeur.

Once inside, the original fittings remain but they are complemented by a contemporary twist, funky lighting, glass ceiling, gorgeous wallpaper and a well designed mezzanine level bar.

A fantastic brassiere style menu is on offer where much of the locally sourced produce is cooked on a wood fired Aztec grill. Try the aged cuts of meat and local fish or the famous Library Burgers followed by the naughty but nice chocolate fountains which please everyone! The Library has a hip and stylish lounge where you can relax with pre-dinner drinks or after your meal with a coffee and liqueur. The fully equipped bar offers cocktails and drinks alongside an excellent choice of wines from throughout the world.

Breakfast is served in our elegant dining room, with individual tables overlooking the back garden. We offer full English breakfast, continental option with a variety of interesting breads and a variety of preserves.

Day Two Morning Head over to The Norwich Lanes where fashionistas will delight in an abundance of vintage fashion and lifestyle shops. The Norwich Lanes is quite unlike anywhere else in the city. It is proud to boast a memorable and eclectic blend of independent shopping, leisure and entertainment and is made up of a jumble of winding streets, pedestrianised areas and alley ways.

As unique as it is diverse, the Norwich Lanes represents individuality and creativity so take your time, relax and explore the cobbled streets lined with historic buildings you’ll discover a charming yet funky mix of things to see and do.

Afternoon More shopping and discovery take in; Upper St Giles, St Benedicts Street and Magdalen Street.

The Library was one of the venues used during Norwich Fashion Week (March 8 – 15th 2012). It hosted vintage tea parties and fashion shows as well as other celebrations.

Retire to stay overnight at The Grove, 5-star Gold Victorian Villa. Imposing and sympathetically restored The Grove offers luxurious B&B accommodation in a peaceful setting in central Norwich with private parking.

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NORFOLK VINTAGE, NOSTALGIC & STYLISH NORWICH - 3-DAY ITINERARY Evening Enjoy a fabulous night out in The Lanes at places such as The Birdcage (cocktails), Frank’s Bar (food and lounging) and The Rumsey Wells (another cool place to hang out with its own art gallery).

Over night at Gothic House (4-star B&B) to be found tucked away in a quiet courtyard located in the historic heart of Norwich just moments from The Cathedral Quarter. It is a Grade II-listed Regency house with a fascinating history. During 2007 the house was refurbished and redecorated to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The guest accommodation comprises of two spacious and stylish rooms: one, on the first floor has a king-sized bed while on the second floor the twin room has two fourfoot beds. All beds are made up with luxurious Egyptian cotton sheets. Each room is provided with tea and coffee making facilities, luxurious bathrobes, slippers and hairdryers.

Whilst the bathrooms are not en-suite each guest room has its own private bathroom, each being provided with Molton Brown toiletries and soft fluffy white towels.

Breakfast is served at the time you request and is a traditional English breakfast served using locally sourced products where possible. Other breakfast dishes, such as scrambled eggs and smoked salmon, kippers, ham, cheese, yoghurt as well as the usual cereals and fruit are also served, subject to availability.

Day Three Morning Norwich Market is an institution in Norwich originally located in Tombland, in The Cathedral Quarter. It moved to its present site when the Normans began to construct Norwich Cathedral. Norwich Market now thrives on its current site and has been doing so for more than 900 years.

Norwich Market is unique in Britain - it is the largest Monday-to-Saturday open-air market in the country. Its rich heritage and traditional appearance offer a glimpse into Norwich’s fascinating past, while complementing the city’s modern shopping facilities.

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Royal Arcade Norwich, Norfolk Index

NORFOLK VINTAGE, NOSTALGIC & STYLISH NORWICH - 3-DAY ITINERARY Explore over 200 stalls selling an enormous array of fresh products from locally produced fruit, veg, meat, fish, bread, cheese and jam to haberdashery, sweets, vintage clothes and books. The life and soul of this market is in its local produce and proprietors.

Don't miss a visit to a bustling market place that celebrates the pride of Norwich.

Guilty pleasure: At Norwich market indulge with a bag of chips, fish and mushy peas!

Head across Gentleman’s Walk for more retail therapy in the form of The Royal Arcade. Once the yard to the Royal Hotel coaching inn, The Royal Arcade was built in 1899 with art nouveau styling by local architect George Skipper. Today it links Gentleman’s Walk with Castle Street and provides a very attractive setting for a mixture of independent shops including the famous Colman’s Mustard Shop and Museum (the only one in the world).

Afternoon Perhaps take in a movie at Norwich’s only art-house cinema, Cinema City – which also has a divine bar and restaurant! Then head off The Assembly House for Afternoon Tea in a chic and classic setting – choose from an array of delicious home-made cakes and sandwiches or don’t choose at all and eat everything!

The Assembly House is a Georgian building designed by the architect Thomas Ivory. It incorporates the original layout of a previous building, the medieval college of St Mary in the Fields. Today the rooms appear almost exactly as they did at the height of the Regency period.

Evening Take the train back to London Liverpool Street. Trains depart every half an hour to London Liverpool Street and hourly to Stratford Regional with National Express East Anglia.

Castle and market square Norwich, Norfolk Index

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NORFOLK BROADS EXPLORE THE BROADS, BRITAIN’S MAGICAL WATERLAND– 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day One Morning Take the train from London to Norwich then change for the Sheringham service and get off at Hoveton/Wroxham for the Broads.

Afternoon Taxi to Wroxham Barns (2 miles) www.wroxhambarns.co.uk for lunch prepared with the best of local produce, then explore the craft studios, brewery, shops and farm.

Evening Overnight in Wroxham – stay at Hotel Wroxham and enjoy a meal on the terrace overlooking the river www.arlingtonhotelgroup.co.uk

Footpath waymarker at the Thurne Dyke Wind Pump Norfolk 154

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NORFOLK BROADS EXPLORE THE BROADS, BRITAIN’S MAGICAL WATERLAND– 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Day Three

Morning

Morning

Take the Bure Valley railway from Wroxham to Buxton www.bvrw.co.uk and return by canoe on the River Bure with The Canoe Man www.thecanoeman.com.

Take a day boat from Broads Tours www.broadstours.co.uk and explore the river towards Horning.

Afternoon

Afternoon

Stop off for lunch by the river at Coltishall on your way back to Wroxham www.kingsheadcoltishall.co.uk.

Have lunch at the New Inn with riverside moorings www.newinn-horning.co.uk, then return to Wroxham in your boat.

Evening

Evening

Overnight in Wroxham – have an evening stroll along The Bure Valley Way.

Then catch the train at Hoveton/Wroxham to Norwich, change trains at Norwich and head for London www.greateranglia.co.uk.

Boating on the Norfolk Broads Norfolk Index

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NORTHUMBERLAND A HISTORICAL ODYSSEY - 3-DAY ITINERARY 1600 years ago Northumberland was the edge of the Roman Empire.

Later the county saw the beginnings of Britain’s conversion to Christianity, but old legends still remain!

Northumberland is fortunate in having some of the best researched and best documented remains of Britain’s Roman heritage. Other places in Great Britain have Roman remains. But Northumberland’s Roman story is different. And because it is different, it is special. Marching camps, signal stations, campaign roads, a soldier’s life lived on the edge and, most remarkable of all, the World Heritage Site of Hadrian’s Wall.

For real spirit of place, it is hard to match Northumberland. Christian faith spread from the Holy Island of Lindisfarne when it became the Cradle of Celtic Christianity in the 7th century. Hope played out on Northumberland’s medieval battlefields. And charity came in the form of local personalities who helped shape Northumberland’s social and political life.

Day One Evening Depart from London Kings Cross for Newcastle. Two and a half hours later you’ll be at Central Station where plenty of taxis await to take you to your Corbridge Hotel, 29km west of the city.

Day Two Morning Enjoy a hearty Northumbrian breakfast at your hotel then head out to explore…

9.30am arr. Corbridge St Andrew’s church in Corbridge has a complete Roman archway inside and the village is ideal for boarding the AD122 Hadrian’s Wall bus service. Each Roman site has a different story to tell: Corbridge fort was on the Stanegate frontier; Chesters has its bath house and at Brocolitia the god Mithras makes his presence felt.

Housesteads is the classic Roman fort with a breathtaking hilltop position.

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Footpath sign for Hadrian’s Wall Northumberland Index

NORTHUMBERLAND A HISTORICAL ODYSSEY - 3-DAY ITINERARY Afternoon

Afternoon

Enjoy lunch and a local real ale at the Twice Brewed Inn or try Vindoland’s tea room.

Vindolanda has a brand new museum and the Roman Army Museum at Carvoran sheds light on the soldiers’ life.

12.45pm - dep. Flodden Battlefield site Return to Branxton – Crookham (Perhap stop for lunch at the Lavender Tearooms in Etal or Cafe Maelmin in Milfield)– join A697(s) - B6352 – West Flodden – Howtel – B6352 – Kilham – join B6351 (s) – Kirknewton

Here’s How: All the details of the AD122 Hadrian’s Wall seasonal bus service and the network of other local bus services serving Hadrian’s Wall Country are on www.hadrians-wall.org Rover tickets are available including discounts for online advanced purchases.

Evening Treat yourself to an extra special meal at Hexham’s Bouchon Bistro – voted best local French restaurant in the UK on Channel 4’s ‘The F Word’.

Retire to your hotel.

Day Three Morning After your breakfast pick up your hire car and head north.

10.30 am - arr. Ford Louisa, Lady Waterford (1818-1891) was a benevolent and charitable owner of the Ford estate in the 19th century. The village school she provided for the children of her tenants is now Lady Waterford Hall where her talent as an amateur artist can now be enjoyed by all. Enjoy her beautiful paintings of Biblical scenes.

11.30am - dep. Ford B6354 – join A697(n) – Crookham – take left to Branxton (for Battle of Flodden site).

Road leading to Flodden Field battlesite car park is narrow and entrance is tight therefore unsuitable for long vehicles/trailers.

11.45am - arr. Flodden Battlefield site Flodden Battlefield site is one of the best preserved battle fields in the whole of northern Europe. On 9 September 1513 armies from England and Scotland faced each other across the muddy landscape of Northumberland and hope came to nought for the Scots from the north. Today, the site still has a poignant and eerie atmosphere. 2013 will mark the 500th anniversary of the battle.

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2.25pm - arr. Kirknewton St Gregory’s church in Kirknewton is a hidden gem of Christian heritage. Step through its doors and step into 800 years of history. A sculptured stone panel inside depicts the Adoration of the Magi (apparently wearing Scottish kilts!). And the churchyard is the last resting place of Josephine Butler (1828-1906) a Victorian feminist, charitable campaigner for women’s rights and a passionate Christian who ranks alongside Florence Nightingale as a woman who influenced and changed the world she lived in.

3.00pm - dep. Kirknewton B6351 (direction Wooler) – pass site of Ad Gefrin – Yeavering - Akeld – A697(s) – Wooler – B6348 (direction Belford) – B6349 (weak bridge 6’6” wide near Fowberry Tower– care needed) – Belford. (Alternative route avoiding weak bridge is via B6348/Chatton)- A1 (n) – Berwick upon Tweed A journey in the footsteps of the early Northumbrian Christians. The Anglo-Saxon site of Ad Gefrin (roadside monument) lies within the shadow of the once sacred mountain top of Yeavering Bell. Over a period of 36 days, in AD 627, Bishop Paulinus baptized the local community in the nearby River Glen. And to the north of Yeavering and Akeld lies the Milfield Basin rich in archaeological evidence including henge monuments, stone circles and Bronze and Iron Age remains.

4.15pm - arr. Berwick upon Tweed Berwick upon Tweed is undoubtedly a town with several stories. And all of them fascinating. For Christian heritage interest, Holy Trinity Church is a “must see” as it was one of the very few churches built in England during the Commonwealth period of the 17th century. And don’t miss the town’s Elizabethan ramparts or some of the first purpose built army barracks in Great Britain at Berwick Barracks.

Evening Drive to Berwick-upon-Tweed train station to drop off your hire car and join your train for the 3 1/2 hour journey back to London.

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NORTHUMBERLAND GREEN & PLEASANT LAND – 3-DAY ITINERARY Northumberland is one big open air garden. Home to forests, wild upland hills and lovely river valleys, Mother Nature was generous in providing all kinds of landscape to enjoy for free. From the freshness of spring blossoms to the warmth and depth of Autumn colours, Northumberland’s natural beauty is open all year round to enjoy.

But Man has sometimes given Mother Nature a run for her money.

Northumberland is home to spectacular gardens which will delight plantsmen, gardeners and non-gardeners alike. And how is it that one of the most famous landscape gardeners Great Britain has ever produced earned his unusual nickname? Read on to find out…

Day One Evening Depart from London Kings Cross for Newcastle upon Tyne. Just three hours 40 minutes on the train gets you to the very north of England. Pick up your hire car and retire to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

Day Two Morning Enjoy a hearty Northumbrian breakfast at your hotel then head out to explore...

10.00am - arr. Belsay Hall & Gardens Belsay is the perfect place to discover how architecture and garden design developed across several centuries. The Hall has all the elegance and symmetry of a Greek temple and was designed in 1807 by Sir Charles Monck on return from his two year long European honeymoon. The Hall’s unusual Quarry Garden was also carefully planned by him to produce a feeling of drama and excitement. And it still does.

Noon - dep. Belsay Hall & Gardens A696 (n) – B6342 (direction Hexham) – Kirkharle Courtyard The Alnwick Garden Northumberland 158

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NORTHUMBERLAND GREEN & PLEASANT LAND – 3-DAY ITINERARY Afternoon

Day Three

12.15pm - arr. Kirkharle Courtyard Lancelot “Capability” Brown (1716-1783) was born at Kirkharle and educated at nearby Cambo village school. Responsible for transforming the landscapes and gardens of 18th century England, he earned his unusual nickname after discussions with his clients on whether or not their landscape had “capabilities” of being transformed.

Enjoy lunch at the café or treat yourself to a local craft whilst discovering more about Mr Brown and his achievements.

Morning

1.15pm - dep. Kirkharle Courtyard B6342 (direction Rothbury) –at A696 junction continue on B6342 - Wallington House and Gardens 1.30pm - arr. Wallington House and Gardens Fabulous house with all the trimmings and elegance of the 18th century including fine furniture, paintings and china. And a truly lovely English walled garden to simply fall in love with. Miss it and regret it.

3.30pm - dep. Wallington House and Gardens B6342 (n) – Cambo – continue on B6342 (n) – in approx. 1.5km look for signs for Herterton House Gardens to right.

3.45pm - arr. Herterton House Gardens Because at Herterton you get five gardens in one acre. The creation of two people over the last two decades, Herterton is the result of a labour of love.

10.00am - arr. The Alnwick Garden Just ten years ago, The Alnwick Garden opened for visitors to watch the creation of Europe's most ambitious new garden. Before the Duchess of Northumberland imagined creating a beautiful public garden for families to enjoy, the site had been derelict and forgotten. From her bold vision, The Alnwick Garden project began. The Alnwick Garden is now a vibrant place, with beautifully landscaped gardens, magnificent architecture and unique features, all brought to life with water.

Enjoy lunch in the spectacular TreeHouse, set high in a copse of mature lime trees.

Noon - dep. The Alnwick Garden Head north on Denwick Lane/B1340 – B1339 – Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum

Afternoon 2.00pm - arr. Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum The home of Charles, 2nd Earl Grey who was Prime Minister during the passing of the Great Reform Bill of 1832 and better known for the famous tea which was blended especially for the water at Howick and named after him. The gardens are a plantsman’s delight with extensive grounds offering a stunning variety of unusual plants throughout the seasons. Enjoy a cup of Earl Grey in the garden’s tea room.

4.45pm - dep. Herterton House Gardens Head for your hotel or bed and Breakfast. Consider the beautiful Close House Hotel or Eshott Hall, an elegant and beautifully restored hall dating from 1310.

4.30pm - dep. Howick for Newcastle

Evening

Drive to Newcastle to drop off your hire car and join your train for the 2 1/2 hour journey back to London.

Evening

Enjoy a dinner in your hotel or consider a special meal at the Jolly Fisherman in Craster where you can enjoy the local Craster Kippers whilst looking out at stunning North Sea views.

Retire to your hotel.

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NOTTINGHAMSHIRE CULINARY ADVENTURES IN NOTTINGHAMSHIRE - 3-DAY ITINERARY Nottinghamshire, in the centre of the UK, is building a solid reputation nationally and globally as a place for fantastic food and drink experiences.

From the hands-on food courses at the School of Artisan Food to the fantastic farm shops and food markets, the country is a treat for lovers of fine food and real ale.

The city of Nottingham is less than two hours by train from London, and provides the perfect base from which to explore.

Day One Morning Depart from London St Pancras station direct to Nottingham by train (two hours).

Enjoy morning tea at one of the fantastic cafes in the city centre. Try Lee Rosy’s which has over 100 types of tea, or The Walk, famous for its delicious cakes. Visit the Old Market Square for the regular food market or try locally made produce from the Tourism Information Centre.

Afternoon Travel to Southwell, just half an hour from Nottingham. This lovely traditional market town is famous as the home of the Bramley apple – the original Bramley Apple tree still stands. Admire the beautiful twin spires of the impressive Minster there and wander the narrow streets of this beautiful historic town.

Evening Travel to Welbeck and stay at one of the local B&Bs. Both Brown’s and Woodend Guesthouse are famous for the locally sourced breakfast menus.

Southwell Minster Nottinghamshire 160

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NOTTINGHAMSHIRE CULINARY ADVENTURES IN NOTTINGHAMSHIRE - 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two Morning Join a one-day course at the School of Artisan Food. This is the only school of its kind in the UK and teaches everything from cider brewing to baking to cheese making.

Afternoon Wander over to Welbeck Farm Shop from the school and sample Stichelton cheese – the first raw organic milk cheese in the UK in decades. Sample amazing baked goods at the Lime House Cafe in the Harley Estate.

Evening Enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the restaurants of the area.

Day Three Morning Complete the 4km walking trail from Welbeck – this loop includes Creswell Crags – famous for its limestone caves and gorge and home of the only known Ice Age in the UK.

Afternoon Why not treat yourself to a luxury ice cream made with fresh milk at Thaymar Farm Shop and Tea Room, or indulge in a selection of cakes made with Nottinghamshire stone ground flour on your way back to Nottingham?

Evening Follow the Real Ale Trail to enjoy the best pubs in the city – this easy to follow walking trail takes in 12 of the city’s best drinking holes – from pubs with caves inside to some of the oldest pubs in the country. Or visit one of the many restaurants in the area – from Michelin starred Sat Bains to the delicious spices of Mem Saab.

Creswell Crags Nottinghamshire Index

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NOTTINGHAMSHIRE THE LEGEND OF ROBIN HOOD – 3-DAY ITINERARY Just two hours from London, Nottingham is known globally as the home of the legendary Robin Hood. Stories about the legendary outlaw have been told and retold for over 600 years. This trail brings the legend to life, exploring the beautiful city of Nottingham and his haunts in the northern regions of the county, including the Major Oak in Sherwood Forest.

Day One Morning Depart from London St Pancras station direct to Nottingham by train (two hours)

Afternoon Robin Hood Town Tour Follow in the footsteps of the legend with local actor, Ade Andrews.

Nottingham Castle: Perched on a hilltop overlooking the city, enjoy fantastic views from the castle grounds and explore the modern art galleries housed within this ducal mansion on the site of the original medieval castle.

Robin Hood Statue: Don’t miss the beautiful bronze statue of the infamous Robin Hood, just outside the Castle grounds.

Evening Follow the Real Ale Trail to enjoy the best pubs in the city – this easy to follow walking trail takes in 12 of the city’s best drinking holes – from pubs with caves inside to some of the oldest pubs in the country.

The Oldest Inn in England: Visit Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem – this pub, built into the caves beneath the Castle, is known as the oldest inn in England and has a history dating back over 800 years. The perfect place for refreshments and to soak up Nottingham’s stories.

Robin Hood Statue Nottinghamshire 162

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NOTTINGHAMSHIRE THE LEGEND OF ROBIN HOOD – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

legend of Robin Hood and the Sheriff of Nottingham. One of the best museums in the country for young and old alike.

Morning Travel to Sherwood Forest by bus or car, located approximately 24km north of Nottingham city.

Explore Sherwood Forest and the Major Oak: Once part of a royal hunting forest, Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve incorporates some truly ancient areas of native woodland with more than 1,000 veteran oaks – most of which are over 500 years old. The most famous of these is the Major Oak – rumoured to have been a hide out for Robin Hood and his merry men.

Evening Heroes & Villains Tour: Join this exciting walking tour throughout the city centre, which explores the city’s most famous legends and their lives, including Robin Hood, Lord Byron and DH Lawrence.

Afternoon In the afternoon visit nearby Sherwood Pines Forest Park and enjoy an archery or falconry lesson. Or hire a bicycle to explore this densely wooded area.

Evening Stay at nearby Edwinstowe at one of the lovely hotels or B&Bs and enjoy some friendly Nottinghamshire country hospitality.

Day Three Morning Visit Creswell Crags. This beautiful location is a limestone gorge honeycombed with caves. One of which is Robin Hood Cave, where our hero once hid from the Sheriff’s men. Creswell Crags is also famous as the UK’s only site of recorded ice age art.

Travel back to Nottingham for lunch at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the city.

Afternoon Galleries of Justice Museum: Just down the road from Nottingham Contemporary, the Galleries of Justice Museum is renowned as one of the most haunted buildings in Britain. It explores the history of Nottingham’s crime and punishment, including the Index

Sherwood Forest Nottinghamshire 163

OXFORDSHIRE 'ALICE IN WONDERLAND' AND 'HARRY POTTER' IN OXFORD – 2-DAY ITINERARY 150th anniversary of Lewis Carroll (Charles Dodgson) narrating 'Alice in Wonderland' to Alice Liddell and her sisters. See Hogwarts Library (the Bodleian Library) and the inspiration for Hogwarts Hall (Christ Church) in Oxford.

Day One Morning Depart from London Victoria, Marble Arch or Gloucester Street (parallel to Baker Street - X90 only) by X90 Oxford Espress or Oxford Tube. Buses run 24/7 between London and Oxford. (90 mins) Or take the Airline bus from Heathrow (80 mins) or Gatwick (2hrs+ ) airports.

Visit the Bodleian Library whose Divinity School (said to be 'the most beautiful room in Europe') served as Hogwarts Infirmary and also the dance practice room, as well as Duke Humfrey's Library (Hogwarts Library).

Day Two Morning Visit Christ Church whose cloisters were filmed as Hogwarts Trophy Room and whose staircase was Hogwarts entrance. Visit the Great Tudor Hall, the inspiration for Hogwarts Hall. Discover why the White Rabbit was always late and where the Rabbit Hole is/was.

See the Alice Window, fire dogs and portrait of Charles Dodgson (Lewis Carroll) in the Hall. In the Cathedral, of which Alice's father was Dean, see the window portrait of Alice's sister, Edith, depicted as St Catherine of Alexandria following her unexpected death. Note the name of Alice's son, Leopold Hargreaves, on the WWI Roll of Honour.

Afternoon

Afternoon

Oxford River Cruise - following the route taken by Lewis Carroll, Alice and her sisters when the timeless tale of ' Alice' was first created. Visit some places the real Alice would have known and visited - the University Museum whose Dodo is the most complete specimen in the world, and the Botanic Garden. Or drop by the Pitt Rivers museum -which may have inspired Diagon Alley and whose shrunken head appeared on the Night Bus. Maybe take the City Sightseeing bus to get there?

Official Guided Walking tour of Oxford - an excellent introduction to the City and University led by an informative and entertaining Blue/Green badge guide.

Evening

Evening

Attend Evensong for the atmosphere, beautiful singing - and to experience the Cathedral doing what it was built for. 18.00 Oxford time (ie 18.05).

Visit New College where Malfoy was turned into a ferret.

Explore Oxford's traditional pubs or wander round Christ Church Meadow - look out for white rabbits.

164

Return to London.

Index

OXFORDSHIRE GORGEOUS GARDENS – 3-DAY ITINERARY Oxfordshire has some of the most interesting, historic and beautiful gardens in the world - including Britain's first Botanic Garden

Evening Stay overnight in Oxfordshire.

Day One

Day Three

Morning

Morning

Depart from London by car on the M40. Leave at Junction 8 and take the A40 to Oxford. Visit Oxford Botanic Garden, Britain's first. See JRR Tolkien's favourite tree Walk round Addison's walk and see the deer park in Magdalen College. Lunch.

Leave for Rousham, whose William Kent -designed garden is almost exactly as it was first conceived - with statues, grottoes, pools and eye-catcher. A real treat for garden lovers, especially those with an interest in garden design and development.

Afternoon

Afternoon

Other delightful gardens in Oxford include: New College ( still required to maintain the ancient city wall), St Edmund Hall (including the graveyard of the former ancient church of St Peter in the East), St John's (supervised by the Keeper of the Groves) and Merton College (with fine views over Christ Church Meadow).

Enjoy Waterperry Gardens, once a school of horticulture for ladies and now a flourishing garden in its own right with one of only two commercially run apple/pear orchards in Oxfordshire. Sample some home-pressed apple juice -- whether from sweet Coxes or tangy Bramleys. And try a home-baked cake (or two).

Evening

Evening

Stroll in the University parks or round Christ Church Meadow to spot the rabbits especially the white ones‌ Enjoy views of the spires and watch punts glide by (on the River Cherwell) and steamers (on the River Isis). Stay overnight in Oxford.

Return to London.

Day Two

Blenheim Palace's Water Terraces Woodstock, Oxfordshire

Morning Leave for Blenheim Palace to enjoy several award winning gardens contained within the landscaped parkland of Capability Brown. Admire the Water Terraces with fountains, the Rose Garden - seemingly always in bloom - even in winter, the splendid Italian Garden and the Secret Garden, a setting of unexpected tranquillity and intimacy. Lunch.

Afternoon Visit Cotswold Wildlife Park whose gardens are a delightful setting for the animals.

Enjoy exotic floral displays in the sheltered Walled Garden, (don't miss the cheeky meercats), the wooded Wilderness and the general profusion of all things herbaceous and floral with the beautiful Cotswold manor house at its heart.

Index

165

OXFORDSHIRE BUCKINGHAMSHIRE AND OXFORDSHIRE COTSWOLDS 3-DAY ITINERARY South East England is ideally located near to London and is a great destination for groups, families and individuals.

The region offers a fantastic combination of rich historical sites, beautiful gardens, designer shopping outlets as well as stunning coastlines and a beautiful countryside.

Day One Morning From London/ Heathrow/ Luton Travel to High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, just off the M40. Visit Hughenden Manor (National Trust) former home of the great Victorian statesman Benjamin Disraeli.

Lunch

Afternoon Travel 15 minutes to Great Missenden to visit the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre and enjoy the different activities.

Travel through Aylesbury to Quainton and visit the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, exhibits include a coach from the royal train of 1901 and one used by Churchill and Eisenhower in 1944.

Evening Overnight in Aylesbury: Hartwell House Tanamera B&B Holiday Inn Aylesbury Hughenden Manor Buckinghamshire 166

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OXFORDSHIRE BUCKINGHAMSHIRE AND OXFORDSHIRE COTSWOLDS 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Day Three

Morning

Morning

Travel on the A413 to historic Buckingham and visit the Old Gaol, which was one of the first purpose-built county gaols in England. Stroll the historic streets and browse in the specialist shops and street markets.

Oxfordshire Cotswolds

Just outside town, visit Stowe Landscape Gardens, (National Trust) one of the most remarkable creations of Georgian England that was created by a family once so powerful they had more money than the king.

Visit Blenheim Palace, just outside Woodstock. The home of the Duke of Marlborough and the birthplace of Winston Churchill, the palace is set in 2,100 acres of parkland landscaped by ‘Capability’ Brown.

Lunch

Lunch

Afternoon Afternoon Take the A442 to get some retail therapy at Bicester Village, a relaxed shopping haven with over 130 designer outlet boutiques set around delightful open-air pedestrianised streets, offering up to 60 per cent off previous seasons’ collections.

Stay locally or travel back through the Oxfordshire Cotswolds for a night stop at Woodstock.

Evening Overnight:

Take the A40 to Burford, just 30 minutes away and discover one of the most picturesque towns in England, and often referred to as ‘the Gateway to the Cotswolds’ and pay a visit to the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens.

Further information: www.oxfordshirecotswolds.org www.visitbuckinghamshire.org www.visitsoutheastengland.com Contact: international@tourismse.com

Macdonald Bear Hotel, Woodstock The Bicester Hotel & Country Club, Bicester The Duke of Marlborough, Woodstock

Index

167

PEAK DISTRICT FOLLOW THE STARS – 3-DAY ITINERARY The Peak District is one of the most popular film, television and literature locations in England – linked with famous names from Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte to Keira Knightley and Sir Anthony Hopkins. Celebrate the 200th anniversary of the publication of Pride & Prejudice in 2013!

Day One Morning Depart from London St Pancras to reach Derby in just 91 minutes.

Afternoon Hop in a hire car and drive to the National Trust’s neo-classical Kedleston Hall, near Derby, where Hollywood movie The Duchess (starring Keira Knightley, 2008) was filmed and a 2006 TV version of Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre was made. Explore the sumptuous house and estate then head for Crich, once ITV’s fictional village of Cardale in the popular medical drama Peak Practice. Crich is also home to the fascinating living museum Crich Tramway Village, where you can ride on a vintage tram if you’ve got time (they’ll provide an old penny so you can buy an old-fashioned ticket and enjoy the ride!).

Evening Dinner and overnight in the Peak District.

Kedleston Hall Derbyshire 168

Index

PEAK DISTRICT FOLLOW THE STARS – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Day Three

Morning

Morning

Drive up to Chatsworth, one of England’s most beautiful country houses, where another Hollywood blockbuster starring Keira Knightley, Pride & Prejudice (2005) was shot. Literary fans will celebrate the 200th anniversary of Jane Austen’s famous novel in 2013, so it’s a timely occasion to visit. Chatsworth was used as the inspiration for Pemberley in the original novel, and Austen is rumoured to have stayed in nearby Bakewell while writing the book. Chatsworth has also featured in several other films – including The Duchess (2008) and horror movie The Wolfman, starring Sir Anthony Hopkins (2009).

Head towards Hathersage to see breathtaking Stanage Edge, where Elizabeth Bennet (Keira Knightley) dreamed of Mr. Darcy in the 2005 film version of Pride & Prejudice, then on to the Derwent Valley, setting for the dramatic post-war film The Dam Busters (1955) starring Michael Redgrave. On through Glossop (associated with the darkly comic BBC TV series The League of Gentlemen, 1999–2002, film 2005) to the National Trust’s Lyme Park at Disley.

Afternoon

Enjoy an early afternoon tour of Italianate Lyme Hall, its beautifully landscaped gardens and estate – including the lake where actor Colin Firth emerged in a figurehugging, dripping wet white shirt as Mr. Darcy in BBC TV’s version of Pride & Prejudice (1995)! Drive back to Derby via Buxton, a handsome spa town and Ashbourne, a pretty market town.

A short hop from Chatsworth you’ll find atmospheric Haddon Hall, one of England’s finest medieval houses, and the scenic backdrop for no less than three different versions of Charlotte Bronte’s classic novel Jane Eyre (film, 1996; BBC TV series, 2006 and film starring Michael Fassbender, 2011). Also the location for the film Elizabeth, about Queen Elizabeth I (1998) – starring Cate Blanchett and fantasy movie The Princess Bride (1987), based on the William Goldman novel.

Afternoon

Evening Catch the train at Derby to return to London Euston.

Evening Dinner and overnight in the Peak District.

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169

PEAK DISTRICT THE GREAT OUTDOORS – 3-DAY ITINERARY Right at the centre of England, the Peak District is the perfect playground for a host of outdoor activities that will take your breath away.

Day One Morning Depart from London St Pancras to reach Derby in just 91 minutes.

Afternoon Hop into a hire car and head for a walk in the stunning scenery of the White Peak.

Both gentle and more demanding routes are available – choose from the Tissington and High Peak Trails; Valley of the Upper Dove; Dales of the Lower Dove; Ilam village and the Manifold Valley or the Manifold Woodlands. Beautiful Dovedale is best known for its famous river, immortalized in the best selling book The Compleat Angler, and the striking summit of Thorpe Cloud. If you fancy hitching a ride instead, take a horse trek along the traffic-free Tissington Trail, part of the long-distance Pennine Bridleway.

Evening Dinner and overnight stay in the White Peak.

Dovedale Derbyshire 170

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PEAK DISTRICT THE GREAT OUTDOORS – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Day Three

Morning

Morning

Depart in your hire car after breakfast to Bakewell, where you can stop for morning coffee, sample the town’s world-famous Pudding and take a short stroll around the town and beside the river Wye. You might even find time for a quick tour of nearby Chatsworth, one of Britain’s finest country houses.

Drive over to the Staffordshire Moorlands to sample an exhilarating outdoor activity of your choice, from abseiling and rock scrambling to kayaking and canoeing. You can be as adventurous or as cautious as you like – the taster sessions are designed for all abilities.

Afternoon

Afternoon

Pick up a hire bike at nearby Hassop Station and ride the eight-and-a-half miles long, traffic free Monsal Trail – a former railway line with recently reopened tunnels and stunning views of some of the Peak District’s best known and most beautiful scenery.

Opt for a conventional bicycle - or an electric bicycle if you need a little extra help!

Drive back to Derby, stopping for a pub lunch at a traditional country inn on the way.

If you have time, call in at Tissington, a quintessentially English village with a handsome Jacobean hall that has been home to the FitzHerbert family for more than 400 years. Or stop off in the pretty market town of Ashbourne, with its cobbled streets and market place and fascinating antiques shops.

Evening Drive up to Buxton for dinner and overnight stay. Buxton is a famous spa town with classic architecture, including The Crescent, soon to become a stylish five-star spa hotel.

Index

Evening Catch the train at Derby to return to London Euston.

171

SHROPSHIRE HISTORIC FOUNDATIONS OF THE MODERN INTERNATIONAL OLYMPIC GAMES – 3-DAY ITINERARY Discover the story that inspired the naming of London 2012 mascot, Wenlock.

The Establishment of the Wenlock Olympian Society in 1850 by Dr William Penny Brookes was the starting point in the inspirational role he had in the creation of the modern International Olympic Games.

Dr Brookes’ legacy is still very much alive today with the Wenlock Olympian Games taking place 8th – 21st July.

Much Wenlock is a beautiful market town with an abundance of 16th century timbered buildings.

On-line guide www.muchwenlockguide.info

Day One Morning Depart by train from London Euston travelling to Telford, changing at Wolverhampton or Birmingham New Street.

Arrive in Telford and take a taxi to Much Wenlock (11 miles).

Afternoon Start your time in Much Wenlock with refreshments at the Copper Kettle tea rooms in the centre of the town.

Visit the Much Wenlock Museum where you’ll see artifacts and memorabilia that bring to life the story of Dr William Penny Brookes and the Wenlock Olympian Games. www.muchwenlockmuseum.co.uk The ancient Wenlock Priory ruins are located on the edge of the town centre and are in the care of English Heritage.

Evening Dine at The Raven Hotel, the famous meeting place of Dr William Penny Brookes and Baron Pierre de Coubertin in 1890. It was from this meeting and a visit to the Wenlock Olympian Games that de Coubertin went away inspired by Dr Brookes’ vision for an international Olympic festival. www.ravenhotel.com 172

Much Wenlock Museum Shropshire Index

SHROPSHIRE HISTORIC FOUNDATIONS OF THE MODERN INTERNATIONAL OLYMPIC GAMES – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two Morning Follow the Olympian Trail, a mile walk around the town that takes in sites such as the house of Dr Brookes, the grounds where the Olympian Games are held to this day (every July) and the final resting place of Dr Brookes. www.wenlock-olympian-society.org.uk

The Merrythought Village on the Wharf is home to the makers of the official Olympic teddy bear, a brewery, antiques centre and more.

Afternoon Late afternoon take a taxi back to Telford and onwards for the return London journey.

If this is organised in advance, then it is possible for someone from the Wenlock Olympian Society to accompany you on your trip.

Afternoon Enjoy lunch at the Priory Tea Rooms, close by to Dr Brookes’ house and Holy Trinity Church. A look around the church is recommended as the site of a recently installed commemorative plaque to recognise Dr Brookes’ legacy and where many arts exhibitions are held.

Explore the wide range of shops and galleries that Much Wenlock has to offer.

Regular markets are held in the town under the Guildhall and Corn Exchange. Include a stop off at the Wenlock Pottery gallery, where you may see pots being thrown.

Evening Enjoy a relaxing meal in the traditional surroundings of the Talbot pub. www.thetalbotinnwenlock.co.uk

Day Three Morning The World Heritage Site of Ironbridge encompasses 10 museums that reflect the impact that this area had on the industrial revolution of the 18th century. The World famous Iron Bridge was first opened in 1782.

Your final day offers the opportunity to explore Ironbridge, perhaps taking in Enginuity and the CORE exhibition that is part of the London 2012 Festival, Blists Hill Victorian Town, Coalport China Museum or Jackfield Tile Museum.

Index

Ironbridge Near Much Wenlock, Shropshire 173

SOMERSET FOOD AND DRINK – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day One Morning Somerset Cider Brandy, Pass Vale Farm, Kingsbury Episcopi, Martock, TA12 5BU Tel 01460 240782, fax 01460 240782, email apples@ciderbrandy.co.uk www.ciderbrandy.co.uk Cider Farm which produces many award winning ciders, made only with Somerset apples. See the huge oak vats and copper stills used to create Somerset Royal Cider Brandy. Conducted tours by prior appointment.

Afternoon Brown and Forrest, The Smokery, Hambridge, Langport, TA10 0BP Tel 01458 250875, fax 01458 253475, email brownforrest@btinternet.com www.smokedeel.co.uk Traditional smokery, producing smoked eel, salmon, tout, duck, ham, cheese and chicken. See the smoking process then enjoy eating in the delightful restaurant.

Evening Somerset Cider Brandy, Pass Vale Farm, Kingsbury Episcopi, Martock, TA12 5BU The Halfway House, Pitney Hill, Pitney, Langport, TA10 9AB Tel 01458 252513.

Winner of the Best Country Pub in England in 2002. Flagstone floors, open fires, comfy sofas and books, maps and newspapers along with fine local food make this the perfect place to unwind.

A selection of local produce Somerset 174

Index

SOMERSET FOOD AND DRINK – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Day Three

Morning

Morning

Forde Abbey Fruit Farm, Forde Abbey Estate, Chard, TA20 4LU Tel 01460 30460, fax 01460 220296 www.fordeabbey.co.uk.

Charlton Orchards, Charlton Road, Creech St Michael, Nr Taunton, Somerset, TA3 5PF Tel: 01823 412959. Email: sally@charlton-orchards.co.uk

Pick your own soft fruit from Mid June to August or enjoy a visit to the stunning 12th century Abbey and 30 acres of gardens and sample local produce in their restaurant.

Traditional apple specialists. Charlton Orchards produce apple juice, pumpkins, squash, herbs and fruit and vegetable plants. Farm Shop on site and sell soft drinks, fruit and vegetables.

Afternoon Afternoon Perrys Cider Mills, Dowlish Wake, Ilminster, TA19 0NY Tel 01460 52681 www.perryscider.co.uk.

A working cider mill producing award winning speciality ciders. Cider tasting and museum of cider production and country life.

Evening

Sheppy’s Cider, Three Bridges, Bradford on Tone, Taunton. TA4 1ER. Tel: 01823 461233. Email: info@sheppyscider.com www.sheppyscider.com Today people come from far and wide to Sheppy's 370 acre farm, where there are 42 acres of cider orchards, producing apples with such romantic names as Kingston Black, Yarlington Mill, Dabinett, Stoke Red, Tremlett's Bitter and many more. Cider Farm and Shop, Cider Sampling, Museum with cider making video, pre-booked guided tours, nature walks, licensed tea room.

Evening

The Pilgrims, Lovington, Castle Cary, BA7 7PF Tel 01963 240600. Email thejools@btinternet.com.

The Castle Hotel, Castle Green, Taunton, TA1 1NF. Tel: 01823 272671. Email: reception@the-castle-hotel.com .www.the-castle-hotel.com

Award winning food served in a relaxed atmosphere. Everything is homemade using the best local ingredients. Winner of Taste of the West’s 2003 Gold Award Best Public House in Somerset and Somerset Life’s 2004 Dining pub of the year and Chef of the year awards.

Award winning restaurant offering first class food, sourced from local suppliers.

Service is friendly, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Winner of Restaurant of the Year sponsored by Foster Event Catering at Somerset Life’s 2004 Awards.

Index

175

SOMERSET CLASSIC GARDENS – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day One Morning Hestercombe Gardens, Cheddon Fitzpaine, Taunton, TA2 8LQ Tel 01823 413923, fax 01823 413747 www.hestercombegardens.com 40 acres of walks, woodlands, cascades and temples, created by Coplestone Warren Bampfylde in 1750s and now being lovingly restored. Plus a Victorian formal garden designed by Lutyens and Jekyll.

Afternoon Cothay Manor Gardens, Greenham, Wellington, Somerset, TA21 0JR Tel 01823 672283, fax 01823 672345.

This magical, romantic garden surrounds what is said to be the most perfect example of a small classic medieval manor house. Bog garden, cottage garden, river walk, a plantsmens paradise.

Evening Brewhouse Theatre, Coal Orchard, Taunton, TA1 1JL. Tel: 01823 274608. Email: Brewhouse@btconnect.com The Brewhouse Theatre & Arts Centre is home to drama, classical, comedy, dance, children and music.

Hestercombe Gardens Somerset 176

Index

SOMERSET CLASSIC GARDENS – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Day Three

Morning

Morning

Montacute House, Montacute, Yeovil, TA15 6XP Tel 01935 823289, fax 01935 826921.

East Lambrook Manor Garden, East Lambrook, South Petherton, TA13 5HL Tel 01460 240328, fax 01460 240328, enquiries@eastlambrook.com www.eastlambrook.com

Beautiful example of 16th century Elizabethan house set in formal renaissance gardens and parkland. Holds collection from National Portrait Gallery. Featured in opening scenes of Sense and Sensibility and will feature in the Libertine, due for release in the Autumn.

Afternoon Lower Severalls, Crewkerne, TA18 8NX Tel 01460 73234, fax 01460 76105 www.lowerseveralls.co.uk.

An enchanting informal garden set in with profuse herbaceous borders and a nursery specialising in herbs, herbaceous and conservatory plants.

Evening Octagon Theatre, Henford, Yeovil Tel 01935 422884 www.octagon-theatre.co.uk

Margery Fish designed this internationally famous Grade 1 listed cottage garden. Her wonderfully informal style has dramatically influenced the gardening of the 21st century. Home to the National Collection of Geraniums specialist plant sales, art gallery and award winning tea room.

Afternoon Barrington Court Garden, Barrington, Ilminster, TA19 0NQ, Tel 01460 241938, fax 01460 242614.

A series of beautiful formal gardens influenced by Gertrude Jekyll laid out in a series of walled rooms, including a white garden, rose garden and iris garden. The kitchen garden provides much of the produce for the Strode House Restaurant.

Evening Visit Ham Hill Country Park, tel 01935 823617, for fantastic panoramic views over Somerset. The perfect spot to watch the sun go down.

Visit to the Octagon theatre for full, arts, music and entertainment programme.

Index

177

STAFFORDSHIRE 3-DAY ROYAL ITINERARY Visit some of the firms that have royal warrants, producing royal commemorative ware for the Diamond Jubilee and Royal Collection and find out more about our royal connections.

Day One Morning Depart from London Euston by train just 1 hour 25 minutes Arrive and visit the Wedgwood Visitor Centre and Museum to see the connections to royalty over the years. Go on a factory tour to see the current production of royal commemorative ware being made and have a chance to throw your own piece of Jasper ware.

Afternoon Emma Bridgewater – a visit to this Victorian pottery factory which now makes the famous spotty contemporary pottery. Chance to visit the people who make it on a factory tour, then have a go at decorating your own in the pottery cafe before sitting for a refreshing cup of tea beside the spotty aga in Emma’s kitchen or in the secret garden.

Day Two Morning Aynsley China – a chance to visit, view and buy some of their commemorative ware before hitting some of the other factory shops for some serious pottery factory shopping including the famous names of Portmeirion who now make the famous Spode blue and white Italian ware.

Afternoon A full afternoon at the Trentham Estate where Royal connections abound from 1086 where it was described as a Royal Manor in the Doomsday book, in 1152 Henry 11 created a Royal Deer park and the herd of wild black fallow deer still roam today.

Have a look around the stunning Italian gardens, mile long lake, Shopping Village and large garden centre.

178

Wedgewood Visitor Centre & Museum Stoke-on-Trent Index

STAFFORDSHIRE 3-DAY ROYAL ITINERARY

Day Three Morning Potteries Museum & Art Gallery- not only the world’s largest collection of Staffordshire ceramics but also with a collection made up with various links to the Royals and a small exhibition and trail will be at the Museum during the Diamond Jubilee. The Museum is also unique for housing the Staffordshire Hoard, the most valuable collection of Anglo-Saxon treasure ever found.

Afternoon Moorcroft Heritage Visitor Centre, a factory tour of this fantastic art pottery where you can speak direct to some of the artists on this small factory who produce some wonderful commemorative ware.

Trentham Italian Garden Staffordshire Index

179

WARWICKSHIRE & SHAKESPEARE’S ENGLAND ROYAL WARWICKSHIRE 2-DAY ITINERARY England’s finest castles, unparalleded connections with Henry’s wives, Elizabeth I, The Gun Powder Plot and a Royal town - romance, intrigue and scandal.

Day One Morning Depart from London Marylebone to Warwick by train – journey time just 1 hour 20 mins. Warwick is a pocket sized town, with charming streets, half timbered buildings and dominated by England’s finest castle – Warwick Castle. Drop into the Lord Leycester Hospital, set up by Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester as a hostel for old soldiers. The complex now represents one of Britain’s finest examples of domestic Elizabethan architecture. See wonderful beamed buildings, The Great Hall, the Guild Hall, a wonderful galleried courtyard and intimate chantry chapel.

Afternoon Then spend an electrifying afternoon exploring a thousand years of jaw-dropping history at Warwick Castle. Experience the heat of battle, dank dungeons, the terrifying dragon tower and castle warfare – or you may prefer a ‘lighter’ visit – become a pampered princess for the day, uncover the secrets and scandals of the Royal Wedding Weekend or stroll through the delightful Victorian Rose Garden.

Warwick Castle has been visited by Kings and Queens throughout the centuries including Queen Elizabeth II just a few years ago, and today offers a truly, interactive, fun and enlightening experience. Lunch suggestion: The medieval Undercroft at Warwick Castle.

Kenilworth Castle Warwickshire

Day Two Morning

Evening Stay in the Tudor era, by dining at the Tudor Inn in Warwick. An authentic Tudor building dating back to 1472 with enormous fire-place, leaded windows and armour.

Overnight in Warwick. Alternatively enjoy some really fine dining at Tailors Restaurant, Warwick.

180

(Warwick to Leamington Spa – 4km – car, bus or train) Begin the day in Warwickshire’s Royal town, one of only three in England, Royal Leamington Spa. This elegant Georgian spa town was given its ‘Royal’ title during a visit by Queen Victoria. Spend a little time admiring the splendid Regency architecture and browsing around the delightful shops and drop into The Pump Rooms that now house a museum and art gallery. If you adore fine food then don’t miss two of Warwickshire’s finest food producers - Aubrey Allen Meats (Warwick Street, Leamington Spa) and Sweet As, award winner confectioner (Warwick Place, Leamington Spa).

Index

WARWICKSHIRE & SHAKESPEARE’S ENGLAND ROYAL WARWICKSHIRE 2-DAY ITINERARY Afternoon

Day Three

Mid-morning continue onto nearby Kenilworth – home to the dramatic red-sandstone Kenilworth Castle. The vast medieval fortress of Kenilworth Castle is one of the most spectacular castle ruins in England. The castle was ruined after the Civil War in 1644 but the huge 12th century keep and Norman walls remain. The ruins are best known as the home of Robert Dudley, the great love of Queen Elizabeth I. Dudley created an ornate palace here to impress his beloved Queen in 1575. The newly re-created, unique Elizabethan Garden, lost for 400 years, is now open to visitors once more. A paradise for garden lovers, wander through this sumptuous landscape as Queen Elizabeth I would have done herself.

Morning

Lunch suggestion: the Castle tearoom in the Tudor stable.

Return to the delightful roman town of Alcester for lunch. Its medieval street pattern prevails remarkably intact and there are plenty of enticing ‘tueries’ (alleyways), historic pubs and half-timbered buildings to admire on an unhurried stroll around.

Lunch suggestion: Essence – modern British Cuisine with a sprinkling of international influences or the much more traditional, Holly Bush Inn, a timeless tavern with an impressive array of real ales.

(Leamington Spa to Kenilworth – 8km – car, bus or train) Travel south from Kenilworth towards Stratford-upon-Avon to the National Trust’s Charlecote Park. Was Shakespeare caught poaching deer at Charlecote Park? Come and find out, and uncover strong associations with Queen Elizabeth I, too. Charlecote Park has been home to the Lucy family for over 700 years and its mellow brickwork and tall chimneys are the very essence of Tudor England. Inside you can see how the house was remodelled in Victorian times and get a taste for 'downstairs' life in the kitchen and scullery. Relax in gardens that include a formal parterre, sensory garden and woodland, or step out on a walk across the ‘Capability’ Brown-inspired parkland, still with fallow deer.

(Leamington Spa to Charlecote – 15km – car, bus or taxi)

Evening In the evening treat yourself to a night at the theatre. This isn’t just any theatre; this is the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon. Have dinner in the stunning roof top restaurant giving panoramic views over the town, then enjoy one of the RSC’s internationally renowned performances in the newly refurbished theatre.

Begin your third day by visiting Ragley Hall, the family home of the Marquess and Marchioness of Hertford, near Alcester. Enjoy a guided tour of this magnificent estate, said to be one of the country’s most sustainable stately homes. The early Palladian mansion houses a fine collection of art and porcelain, and the south staircase hall has contemporary murals depicting the history of the house and family. Ragley Hall has been the seat of the Conway Seymour family since 1680. The house sits in beautiful gardens and also boasts the wonderful Jerwood Sculpture Trail.

Afternoon Just north of Alcester you next come across Coughton Court - the home of the Throckmorton family since 1409, one of the UK’s oldest Catholic families. It holds a unique place in English history with its close connections to the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. This fine Tudor house stands testament to a family’s courage in maintaining their beliefs. From a position of high favour to one of fear and oppression post-Reformation, the Throckmortons were leaders in a dangerous age, helping to bring about Catholic emancipation in the 19th century. Explore this story of fascinating personalities through the ‘family album’ of portraits and Catholic treasures around the house.

Coughton is still very much a family home with an intimate feel: the Throckmorton family live here, managing the stunning gardens which they have created.

(Charlecote to Stratford-upon-Avon – 6.5km – car, bus or taxi)

Evening

Overnight in Stratford-upon-Avon

From Alcester return to Stratford-upon-Avon for a second overnight stay or return journey to London by train – about 2 hours 20 mins.

(Stratford-upon-Avon to Alcester for Ragley Hall and Coughton Court – Approx 16km – car, bus or taxi)

Index

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WARWICKSHIRE & SHAKESPEARE’S ENGLAND SHAKESPEARE’S WARWICKSHIRE 3-DAY ITINERARY England’s greatest playwright, the world’s best known theatre company, a glimpse of Tudor England – the one and only – Shakespeare!

Day One Morning Depart from London Marylebone to Stratford-upon-Avon by train approximately 2 hours 20 minutes. On arrival in Stratford-upon-Avon, check into a centrally located hotel or B&B. Then meet up with a local walking guide and join the Stratford Town Walk. As you walk in William Shakespeare's footsteps from cradle to grave, along the historic spine of ancient Stratford, your guide will unravel the Shakespeare story. You will see Shakespeare's Birthplace, Nash's House and the site of New Place and the beautiful Hall's Croft. Other highlights include the picturesque River Avon, the Royal Shakespeare Theatres, Shakespeare's grammar school and Holy Trinity Church. You may wish to see where William Shakespeare is buried in the Chancel with a curse on his grave.

Walk duration approximately 2 hours. After the walk enjoy lunch at No.9 Church Street – a lovely restaurant that champions local food.

Afternoon After lunch enjoy a visit to Shakespeare’s Birthplace. William Shakespeare grew up here and he played here. He ate meals in the hall and he slept and dreamed in these rooms.

Shakespeare also spent the first five years of married life in this house with his new wife, Anne Hathaway. You will discover the world that shaped the man and you'll find out what other famous writers thought when they visited here. Well-known visitors have included Charles Dickens, John Keats, Walter Scott and Thomas Hardy. Shakespeare's Birthplace is a fascinating house that offers a tantalising glimpse into Shakespeare's early world.

Evening In the evening treat yourself to a night at the theatre. This isn’t just any theatre; this is the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon. Have dinner in the stunning roof top restaurant giving panoramic views over the town, then enjoy one of the RSC’s internationally renowned performances in the newly refurbished theatre.

Overnight in Stratford-upon-Avon.

All venues can be accessed on foot from Stratford-upon-Avon train station and the town offers many quality B&B’s and hotels.

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Shakespeare’s Birthplace Stratford-upon-Avon

Day Two Morning Connect with Shakespeare in a different way today – on two wheels – and trace his rural roots, visiting some of his favourite haunts. Collect a bicycle from Stratford Bike Hire who will provide details of the route, taking in some of the prettiest villages and scenery in the area. The circular route is about 12 miles in total, and mostly flat, making this a really easy and enjoyable morning’s ride. Stop en-route at the very pretty village of Welford-on-Avon for lunch before returning your cycles. (Total leisurely ride time with lunch will take about 3.5-4 hrs.) Suggested lunch stop: The Bell, where Shakespeare met with Ben Jonson and Michael Drayton. It’s said the Bard caught pneumonia on his way home in the rain. Or try the Shakespeare Inn, both pubs located in Welford-on-Avon.

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WARWICKSHIRE & SHAKESPEARE’S ENGLAND SHAKESPEARE’S WARWICKSHIRE 3-DAY ITINERARY Afternoon Now it is your time to sit back, relax and let someone else do the driving. Take a City Sightseeing Tour of Stratford-upon-Avon which takes in the major sights in the town, then whisks you off into the countryside allowing you to visit two more important Shakespeare homes – Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Mary Arden’s House.

Anne Hathaway's Cottage is a thatched farmhouse with stunning grounds and gardens, which overflow with beautiful blooms, and traditional shrubs and where the young William Shakespeare courted his future bride. The cottage is in Shottery, a hamlet within the parish of Stratford-upon-Avon. See for yourself the many original items of family furniture, including the Hathaway Bed, dating from Anne's time and take in the beauty and tranquillity of the charming cottage gardens.

Mary Arden’s House - explore the house where Shakespeare's mother, Mary Arden, grew up and experience for yourself the daily routine, skills and crafts the young William would have known from visits to his grandparents in the 1570s. Visitors can help with tasks such as basket weaving, threshing, bread making, gardening and animal tending. You will find all the sights, sounds and smells of an authentic Tudor farm.

that include a formal parterre, sensory garden and woodland, or step out on a walk across the ‘Capability’ Brown-inspired parkland, still with fallow deer. You’ll be rewarded with half price admission to the house if you travel by public transport.

Afternoon Take the Shakespeare Line for a scenic rail journey and a leisurely afternoon in Henley-inArden. Admire Henley’s famous mile-long High Street with its enchanting 12th to 18th century architecture, and browse the shops and heritage centre. How about some fine dining in the award-winning Bluebell inn, or tea and ice cream in the 16th century ice cream parlour? You can also take a short taxi ride from Henley-in-Arden to the tiny hamlet of Aston Cantlow. Shakespeare’s parents married in the Church here and celebrated in the local inn – The King’s Head. The pub is still offering fantastic food today and is known locally for its excellent Duck Suppers.

As an alternative to public transport, you may want to splash out, and hire yourself a beautiful vintage classic car for the day and explore these Shakespeare connections at your leisure.

(Train time from Stratford-upon-Avon to Henley – 15 mins)

Evening If you dare, take an evening ‘Ghost Cruise’ along the River Avon - the gently flowing River Avon with its abundance of wildlife provides a delightful backdrop to charm the senses. The Man in Black or Vincent present a blend of chilling stories enhanced with magic and mind reading, stimulating the imagination.

Overnight in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Evening Return to Stratford-upon-Avon for your return journey to London or a final overnight stay. Why not really get under the skin of The Royal Shakespeare Company by joining one of their theatre tours and a trip to the top of the Tower, at 32m, this gives panoramic views of the town and beyond. A perfect way to bid farewell to the Bard!

Day Three Morning Today follow in the Bard’s footsteps a little further afield by bus, train, or vintage car!

Take a bus from Stratford-upon-Avon to the National Trust’s Charlecote Park. Was Shakespeare caught poaching deer at Charlecote Park? Come and find out, and uncover strong associations with Queen Elizabeth I, too. Charlecote Park has been home to the Lucy family for over 700 years and its mellow brickwork and tall chimneys are the very essence of Tudor England. Inside you can see how the house was remodelled in Victorian times and get a taste for 'downstairs' life in the kitchen and scullery. Relax in gardens Index

UNIQUE EVENT FOR 2012 The World Shakespeare Festival (WSF) is a celebration of Shakespeare as the world’s playwright, produced by the Royal Shakespeare Company, in an unprecedented collaboration with leading UK and international arts organisations, and with Globe to Globe, a major international programme produced by Shakespeare’s Globe. It runs from 23 April to November 2012 and forms part of London 2012 Festival, which is the culmination of the Cultural Olympiad, bringing leading artists from all over the world together in a UK-wide festival in the summer of 2012.

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WEST SUSSEX WORTHING, BESIDE THE SEASIDE – 3-DAY ITINERARY Worthing offers the very best of the classic British seaside but with so many hidden gems Worthing is so much more and is also in the ideal location to explore the glorious South Downs National Park.

Day One Morning Depart from London Victoria to Worthing by train and arrive in just 1 hour 20 minutes.

Worthing is the largest town in West Sussex. It started life as a small fishing village but grew in popularity when George III sent his daughter, Princess Amelia to get some beneficial sea air in the late 18th century. The Esplanade was built in 1821 and the Pier was opened in 1862.

Afternoon Explore the 8km of palm tree lined promenade. There are plenty of highlights along the way including the fabulous pier, glorious floral garden displays, Splash Point with its interactive water feature, artist’s beach hut studios and sand courts.

Evening A huge selection of restaurants are available to suit every palate.

See a show at one of the towns three theatre venues; The Connaught Theatre, Pavilion theatre and Assemble Hall offer a great selection of entertainment all year round.

Worthing offers a good selection of accommodation; excellent B&B’s or family run hotels, budget accommodation or self catering apartment. Plenty of choice.

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WEST SUSSEX WORTHING, BESIDE THE SEASIDE – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Evening

Morning

The Ropetackle Arts Centre is the south coasts newest riverside Arts Centre with an exciting programme of film, comedy, visual art, music and theatre.

Take a bus along the coast in a westerly direction. Stop off at the English Martyrs Church with its glorious reproduction of the Sistine Chapel (the only one known in the in the world). Continue to Highdown Gardens; a 90 year old ‘Green Flag’ garden set in chalk downland.

Afternoon Come back into Worthing town centre and explore the Worthing Museum and Art Gallery. Its costume and toy collection is one of the largest in the country.

Evening Go back in time at the Dome Cinema, one of the oldest working cinemas in the country. The stunning Edwardian building has been fully restored.

Day Three Morning Hire a bicycle on the seafront and follow the cycle route all the way along the coast to Shoreham-by-Sea. From there access to the South Downs National Park is really easy; just follow the River Adur and the Sculpture Trail.

Afternoon See the splendour of Lancing College Chapel. The architectural masterpiece of the Gothic revival dominates the landscape. Right in its view is Shoreham (Brighton City) Airport; the oldest licensed airfield in the UK with a beautiful Grade II listed Art Deco style terminal building. Their café is a great place from which to just watch all the comings and goings or book yourself onto a guided tour of the visitor centre to learn about the history of the airport. Return to Shoreham’s High Street and explore the Marlipins Museum; the oldest recorded secular building still in use in Sussex. Watch the sun go down whilst relaxing over a refreshing drink in one of the many river facing ‘watering holes’.

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WILTSHIRE MYTHS, LEGENDS AND HAUNTINGS – 2-DAY ITINERARY Everyone loves a tale of mystery and myth and Wiltshire certaintly has plenty of that.

Day One Morning Depart from London Waterloo to Salisbury by train in just 1 1/2 hours. Salisbury is the capital of Wiltshire and one of the most picturesque cities in the south west. On arrival in Salisbury first take a visit to Salisbury Cathedral. The Cathedral has the tallest spire in Europe and you can climb to the base to enjoy views of the surrounding area. During the summer the Cathedral is also hosting a 2012 themed exhibition of sculptures depicting past and current Olympic and paralympic champions. www.salisburycathedral.org.uk

Afternoon Hop on a Salisbury and Stonehenge Tour bus for a guided tour to Stonehenge, one of the most mythical monuments in the UK. No one really knows exactly what Stonehenge was built for or indeed how our ancestors managed to build it with such primitive tools. It’s also interesting to take in the surrounding landscape. See the mounds on the horizon? These are not just mounds of natural earth, they are indeed burial mounds and it is said that their size and proximity to Stonehenge gives an insight into the importance of those buried beneath. www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/stonehenge

Evening Overnight in Salisbury at the Red Lion…..it’s the oldest hotel in town and said to be haunted! www.bestwestern.co.uk

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WILTSHIRE MYTHS, LEGENDS AND HAUNTINGS – 2-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two Morning Continuing with a mythical theme we recommend taking a tour to Avebury via the A345 where you will catch a glimpse of some white horses on-route. Wiltshire is famed for its white horses of which there are 13 in total, although only eight of these are visible today. While origins of some of the horses are known it is not clear why all were created. Of those which remain visible today the Westbury White horse is the oldest dating back to 1778. When you arrive at Avebury you cannot fail to be impressed by these awe inspiring stones. There are around 100 in total, creating a ring around the village of approximately a quarter of a mile in diameter. www.nationaltrust.co.uk/avebury

Afternoon After a tour of Avebury and perhaps lunch in the haunted pub in the middle of the stones (also called the Red Lion), continue along the A4 to visit Silbury Hill. Silbury Hill is just moments from Avebury. This 40m mound in an unusual site. Despite excavations it is a mystery as to what it represents.

Evening Return to Salisbury via Salisbury Plain, know for its crop circles at this time of year.

Maybe you will spot an Olympic shaped circle……they often appear to be spookily formed into the most current of shapes!

Overnight in Salisbury and perhaps enjoy a performance at Salisbury Guildhall… ..again another haunted building! Or dinner in the equally haunted Haunch of Venison, where you can also admire the skeletal hand of a gambler who was caught cheating. Perhaps it is he who haunts the pub.

Salisbury Cathedral Wiltshire Index

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YORKSHIRE EXPLORE BRONTË COUNTRY – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day One Morning Take a two hour train journey from London to Leeds.

Pick up your hire care and take the 30 minute drive to Haworth, your destination for the following two days is Yorkshire’s Brontë Country.

It was this small town, 245m up in the Pennines, which was the Brontë family home in the 1800s. Here, in the Parsonage beside the dark graveyard, was where sisters Emily, Anne and Charlotte Brontë penned their great romantic novels.

Arrive into Haworth and check into: Fleece Inn, 67 Main Street, Haworth, BD22 8DA Tel + 44 (0) 1535 642172 www.fleece-inn.co.uk Contact: Nick Hindle The Fleece Inn is situated on the picturesque and historic cobbled Main Street in Haworth. The Fleece Inn, is the original Inn where Branwell Bronte, brother of the famous Bronte sisters, once drank.

Afternoon Visit The Brontë Parsonage Museum The Parsonage still retains the powerful atmosphere of the Brontës’ own time, giving a wonderful insight into domestic life in the 19th century. The rooms the Brontës lived in are largely unchanged and are filled with their furniture, clothes and personal possessions. www.bronte.info

Evening Dinner at the Fleece followed by the graveyard tour.

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YORKSHIRE EXPLORE BRONTË COUNTRY – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Day Three

Morning

Morning

After a leisurely breakfast meet your guide who will take you on a tour of East Riddlesden Hall.

After a leisurely breakfast – roam around and explore the village shops.

Say farewell to Haworth – return the hire car to Leeds and travel home.

Every time you stand in the gardens of East Riddlesden you will experience something new. The pink cherry trees, clematis, borders, daffodils and soothing lavender beds all create a sense of tranquillity far removed from the bustle of modern life.

We hope you have enjoyed you stay in Brontë Country, Yorkshire www.yorkshire.com

This peace is very different from the Hall's tumultuous past, which includes tales of ghosts and dastardly deeds. Going into the Hall feels like walking through someone's home; it has a cosy lived-in feel, and creates a relaxing atmosphere where visitors can feel at ease examining the exquisite embroideries and blackwork, oak furniture and pewter. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-eastriddlesdenhall Enjoy lunch enroute at a traditional pub,

Afternoon Take a walk to Top Withens.

High up on Haworth Moor, Top Withens is thought to be the location Emily Brontë had in mind for the site of the house Wuthering Heights.

Late afternoon, return to Haworth and relax.

Evening Enjoy dinner this evening at Weavers Restaurant, set on the cobbles close to The Brontë Parsonage Museum.

Brontë Falls West Yorkshire Index

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YORKSHIRE CULTURE SEEKERS – 3-DAY ITINERARY For true culture vultures – in search of intellectual and artistic development – York’s historic setting and contemporary vitality provide the riches of a truly cultural city. The streets surrounding York Minster, King’s Manor and St William’s College are steeped in an unmistakeably intellectual, academic atmosphere. This has been a place of historians, of archaeological and religious study, of choristers, of book publishing, of scholarly endeavour - for hundreds of years.

Meanwhile, around the Swinegate Quarter, and along Fossgate and Walmgate, the mood turns distinctly bohemian, filled with second hand bookshops, cafes, bars and art shops. York’s museums and galleries display the wealth of historical and artistic treasures that belong to the city, from Roman times through Anglo-Saxon and Viking eras to the Middle Ages – the Wars of the Roses, the Civil War – and on to York’s genteel Georgian days.

Day One Morning Depart from London Kings Cross to York by train in just two hours. On arrival into York walk along the City Walls (the most complete medieval town walls in England) and stop at the awe inspiring York Minster – take an audio tour of the Undercroft and see parts of the original Roman settlement in York.

Have lunch at the Treasurer’s House – and then take a house tour. Boasting a 2000 year history, the splendid interiors and elegant formal garden of the Treasurer’s House were originally home to the treasurers of York Minster. The house is built over a Roman road and even has its own resident Roman ghosts – don’t miss the ghost tour in the cellar…

Afternoon Wander the city’s Minster Quarter taking in Swinegate, Grape Lane and Petergate and explore the shops on The Shambles – thought to be the oldest street in Europe and mentioned in the Doomsday book (pop into St Margaret Clitheroe’s shrine, the famous York saint). Relax with a pint of locally brewed ale in one of York’s five ‘York Brewery’ pubs, try the Yorkshire Terrier on Stonegate.

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York Minster York Index

YORKSHIRE CULTURE SEEKERS – 3-DAY ITINERARY Evening

Evening

Have an early dinner dining in the art deco surroundings of one of York’s finest eateries, Betty’s Café Tea Rooms, which also has a great story to tell.

Enjoy a show at York Theatre Royal, the Grand Opera House, York Barbican or one of York’s lesser know venues such as House Concerts York – although very well established in America, house concerts are a relatively new concept here in the UK. York’s venue attracts emerging artists such as the most promising new talent at Glastonbury and other artists from across the globe (to fit this in on a Friday evening – see the planned concerts at www.houseconcertsyork.co.uk)

Between 2 - 27 August the world famous York Mystery Plays are set to make a return to their original setting in Museum Gardens in York. The Passion Plays of England are some of the oldest pieces of English literature. They were performed on the streets of Britain’s medieval cities on the church Feast Day of Corpus Christi, around midsummer.

York Mystery plays have a very historic tradition and have been performed in York since the middle of the fourteenth century until 1569, suppressed in the Tudor times and resurrected when published in 1885. Large scale productions then began in 1951 on a 10 -year cycle. The original production in 1951 was in Museum Gardens against St Mary’s Abbey, so York Theatre Royal’s production in 2012 is taking these historic plays back to its famous setting. Take in an evening performance in this stunning setting.

Day Two

Day Three Morning Take a trip out to 18th century Castle Howard and take a new behind the scenes tour of the Temple of the Four Winds, the Mausoleum and gardens. With its monumental landscape filled with temples, lakes, statues and fountains its no surprise that it won HHA / Christie’s Garden of the Year 2011.

Enjoy lunch at the Courtyard Café with dishes using sourced local produce and meat sourced from the on-site farm shop.

Morning Visit York Art Gallery, According to McGee, and Bar Lane Studios to get your creative juices flowing. Then visit the Quilt Museum (Britain’s first museum dedicated to quilt making and textile art). Spend time exploring the exhibitions and galleries.

You can also pop next door to the New School House Gallery, a newly opened gem which showcases the best in studio ceramics and the decorative arts. Have lunch in the fabulous Italian next door, La Langhe.

Afternoon Return to the city centre and visit Fairfax House, one of the finest Georgian town houses in England. The house is home to the famous Noel Terry collection of furniture and its richly decorated interior was designed by York’s most distinguished eighteeth century architect, John Carr.

Evening Afternoon

Return to London at leisure.

Visit the Jorvik Viking Centre to see its latest additions – a male and female Viking skeleton. You’ll be standing on the site of one of the most famous and astounding discoveries of modern archaeology. Between the years 1976 – 1981 archaeologists from York Archaeological Trust revealed the houses, workshops and backyards of the Viking-Age city of Jorvik, as it stood 1000 years ago.

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YORKSHIRE FOOD & DRINK – 3-DAY ITINERARY York is home to the largest festival of food and drink in the UK which takes place for ten days every September and has an impressive array of restaurants and cafes for visitors to enjoy on their visit to York. Hot on the heels of Fossgate in York winning third Best Foodie Street in the UK in the Google Street Awards in 2010, in 2011 York was named by Trip Advisor Travellers as Europe’s 5th best destination for food and wine in the Trip Advisor Travellers‘ Choice Food and Wine Destinations Awards.

From chocolate to cheese and Fat Rascals to Ampleforth Amber Liqueur – there’s something to suit all tastes in York.

Day One Morning Depart from London Kings Cross to York by train in just two hours. Arrive into York and head directly to one of York’s best lunch time eateries, to get you in the mood; La Langhe Italian Deli and shop, just next to the Quilt Museum and Gallery.

Afternoon Learn the art of chocolate making in this city, whose chocolate making history goes back over 100 years to the times of Joseph Rowntree and Joseph Terry. Take a half day course with Little Pretty Things – ‘Discovering the Origins of Chocolate’. On this taster course you’ll explore the gorgeous flavours of chocolate from around the world and how to work with chocolate using the finest Yorkshire cream and butters.

Evening Enjoy dinner at Betty’s Café Tea Rooms – a must for foodies on a trip to York.

World-renowned tea rooms with continental atmosphere, offering a mouth-watering selection of distinctive foods from Yorkshire.

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YORKSHIRE FOOD & DRINK – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Afternoon

Morning & Afternoon

Enjoy lunch at one of York’s hidden food gems, a delicatessen with a cosy cafe The Hairy Fig. Whilst you’re there purchase some Ampleforth gin, Father Rainer from Ampleforth Abbey near York produces the most amazing ciders, gins and liqueurs – Sue at the Hairy Fig is the only outlet selling these on tap. Key products are his new amber liqueur and Ampleforth cider out of a cask (the first time this has ever been done) – it took Father Rainer a year to devise this for her.

Full day course in the specially adapted country kitchen of Harmony House Cookery School near York. There are numerous courses on offer including ‘Yorkshire Pride’ and ‘One for the Boys’. Your host Hilary, is BBC Radio York’s cookery expert.

Alternatively book into the famous Cookery School at Betty’s in Harrogate (just 30 mins from York) or take a course at the Cooking Rooms in York – offering everything from sushi-making to knife skills and preserving.

If you fancy going further afield into the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, then Swinton Park Hotel in Masham offers all manner of unusual courses from foraging to butchery – option to stay overnight and feel pampered in one of their luxurious rooms.

Spend the rest of the day exploring York’s other delicatessans and food gems: De’Clare – a delicatessen where over 70 percent of produce is sourced within 50km of the shop; Demijohn – a liquid deli selling handmade British wines, spirits, oils and vinegars; Henshelwoods – an award-winning deli at the heart of York’s Newgate Market area, specialising in cheeses from all over the world; and the Yorkshire Pantry – an independent retailer showcasing the very best of Yorkshire produce.

Evening Return to your hotel in York and take an evening stroll down York’s ‘Foodie Street’ – Fossgate where some of the city’s best eateries can be found and choose one for dinner.

Evening Return to London at leisure.

Day Three Morning Continuing a chocolate theme, take a trip to York’s newest chocolate attraction The Sweet History of York This will treat you to the inside story of the famous chocolates and sweets that started their lives in York. Favourites expected to have a starring role in the delicious new attraction include the famous Kit Kat and Christmas stocking favourite, Terry’s Chocolate Orange; not forgetting a behind-the-scenes look into the lives of the amazing men and women who concocted all these chocolate creations from the 19th to the 21st century.

The immersive experience tells the story of York’s confectionery trading and manufacturing past, bringing the story up to date and gives lots of opportunities to interact with chocolate.

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YORKSHIRE HIDDEN GEMS AND TUCKED AWAY TREASURES IN YORK – 3-DAY ITINERARY Look up and around all the time when you’re walking through York – you will see little faces looking down at you, peculiar old signs and fascinating details on York’s old buildings. Take Monk Bar for instance.

Perched on the two towers of the bar are six stone figures, all seemingly ready to rain down boulders on passers-by. Along Stonegate, at the entrance to Coffee Yard sits the bright red “Printer's Devil”, a carved sign that indicated the location of the print works up until the 18th century. The apprentices, who carried the hot plates, were known as the printer’s devils. The figure of an American Indian at 76 Low Petergate is the former advertising sign of the tobacconist – the boy’s kilt and headwear represent tobacco leaves. Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom, sits on the corner of Minstergates, leaning on a pile of books, to advertise the bookseller’s shop below, where authors and literary readers met as members of one of Britain’s earliest book groups.

York is crammed with museums, attractions, shops, restaurants, pubs and magnificent architecture. Here are a few that are less well known but every bit as deserving of the visitor’s attention.

Day One Morning

Micklegate Bar York

Depart from London Kings Cross to York by train in just 2 hours. Arrive into the beautiful, historic city of York and check into your hotel / B&B.

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Afternoon

Evening

Visit the Treasurer’s House, former home of the Treasurer’s to York Minster, take a behind the scenes tour of one of the world’s most famous cathedrals. Walk the city’s medieval walls in the afternoon and stop off at the Richard III Museum and Micklegate Bar Museum for gruesome stories of York’s bloody past.

York is home to Riding Lights Theatre Group, one of the smallest theatres in the UK. Plan your visit to see one of their intimate performances.

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YORKSHIRE HIDDEN GEMS AND TUCKED AWAY TREASURES IN YORK – 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two

Day Three

Morning

Morning

Begin with a visit to Fairfax House, reputed to be one of the finest Georgian town houses in England. Then take a tour of Barley Hall, the former medieval home of one of York’s Lord Mayors.

Take a walk around the snickelways and ginnels of York including Lady Peckett’s Yard, Coffee Yard, Mad Alice Lane, and Whip Ma Whop Ma Gate. A network of ‘ginnels’ or alleyways wind through the historic core of York as it has done for centuries, each with a story to tell. You can explore almost the whole of the city centre using these medieval shortcuts. The Snickleways Guide to York, by Mark Jones, is on sale at York Visitor Information Centre.

Have lunch at the Bar Convent – the oldest working convent in England and also a bed and breakfast. Visit the beautiful chapel and have a chat with one of the resident nuns, and explore the museum which tells the fascinating story of Christianity in the north of England.

Afternoon A real treat awaits you at the Bedern Glazier’s Studio in the shadow of York Minster where you will get close-up to medieval stained glass. During the tour of the studios you will see some of the country’s finest glass conservation in action – now recognised as a centre of excellence.

Visit the splendidly named Merchant Adventurers Hall, home to one of medieval York’s most prestigious guilds. These were the overseas traders, the men who helped make the city rich, and their guildhall reflects their exalted status. The building is one of the best preserved of its kind in Europe, and has stood largely untouched for over 600 years.

Enjoy a gourmet lunch at the Blue Bicycle restaurant. Small, intimate, with a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere – not posh, but expensive. Highly commended for fresh fish dishes, home-made desserts and an excellent wine list. Once a brothel, the design of the Blue Bicycle capitalises on its “blue” history, and employs some voluptuous nudity in the décor – but all in the best possible taste, of course.

Afternoon Take a visit to York’s Mansion House on St Helen’s Square. A building rich in the city's history, and just waiting to be discovered. Behind its imposing facade, through the blue door is a remarkable story of the Lord Mayors of York and their entertainment for the good of the city! Since 1725 the house has been the home of the Lord Mayors of York and houses one of the finest civic collections in the country, including fine silverware, clocks and furniture.

Evening

Tours take place on Thursday Friday and Saturday at 11am, 12.30pm and 2pm.

Find some musical inspiration at one of York’s many musical concerts – visit www.ncem.co.uk for listings at the National Centre for Early Music.

Evening Return to London at leisure.

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CHANNEL ISLANDS

Moulin Huet Bay Guernsey Index

Engand

Channel Islands

Scotland

Wales

Northern Ireland

GUERNSEY ST PETER PORT WALKING TOUR Discover historic St Peter Port: the Channel Islands’ most beautiful town.

Day One Morning Explore the narrow cobbled streets and learn how the old town has flourished on 2000 years of seafaring. Visit the Old Quarter, peruse boutiques and shop for some French bread, pâté, cheeses and traditional Guernsey cider for a picnic in the beautiful Candie gardens. Visit the Guernsey Tapestry housed within St James’ Concert Hall. The Bailiwick of Guernsey Millennium Tapestry illustrates 1000 years of history in 10 embroidered panels - one for each parish depicting a century.

Then make your way to the Guernsey Museum & Art Gallery set within the restored Victorian gardens at Candie, overlooking St Peter Port. The Museum houses a permanent exhibition, the Story of Guernsey, while the Art Gallery hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the Candie gardens, live concerts are held on Sunday afternoons throughout the summer.

Afternoon Climb Cornet Street to Hauteville House, the intriguing home of French literary giant Victor Hugo. An illustrious writer but perhaps an even more prolific DIY enthusiast, Hugo transformed his home into a rich, romantic and eclectic treasure trove. Be prepared for a fascinating insight into the mind of one of literature’s true genius.

Then make your way to the other end of St Peter Port to the impressive Castle Cornet, which guards the entrance to the harbour and with a history spanning eight centuries. Its buildings house four museums in addition to the four period gardens within its ancient walls. Throughout the summer at Castle Cornet you can enjoy Guernsey history in action and Castle nights.

Afterwards, wine and dine at one of the many nearby hotels or restaurants or just enjoy a cocktail at one of Guernsey’s contemporary bars.

Please note – Access to Hauteville House is subject to seasonal variation.

This itinerary is offered as an example. In order to avoid disappointment you are advised to check opening times before you visit (+44 (0)1481 721911).

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St Peter’s Port Guernsey Index

GUERNSEY ISLAND TOUR BY COACH Explore the island’s natural beauty and spectacular scenery

Day One Morning Your coach will head west, to Guernsey’s country parishes and explore valleys and leafy lanes. Look out for the Ruettes Tranquilles - the low speed lanes where walkers, cyclists and horse riders have priority. You will also notice ‘Hedge Veg’ stalls dotted around the lanes, these are home grown vegetables for sale, where you pay by honesty box.

Visit the Little Chapel a work of art and a labour of love, the Little Chapel is possibly the smallest chapel in the world. It was built by Brother Déodat who started work in March 1914. His plan was to create a miniature version of the famous grotto and basilica at Lourdes in France. The Little Chapel is beautifully decorated with seashells, pebbles and colourful pieces of broken china.

En-route look out for Lihou Island, an unspoilt uninhabited bird sanctuary reached by tidal causeway, it is an important conservation area and part designated RAMSAR site. The coach will head to Pleinmont point for some spectacular views and incorporate visits to Creux les Faies Dolmen.

A lunch will be taken en route at one of the beach kiosks, with an opportunity to try fresh crab sandwiches or the local gache bread with fabulous Guernsey butter Follow the coast to Rocquaine and view the shipwreck museum known locally as the “cup and saucer”, Fort Grey is a Martello Tower built in 1804 to defend Guernsey’s west coast. Many vessels have come to grief on this beautiful but treacherous coast, and the Martello Tower now houses a Shipwreck Museum with a surprising variety of objects recovered from the wrecks. The information panels tell the gripping stories surrounding the disasters, which date from the HMS Sprightly in 1777 to the Vermontborg in 2003.

The tour will continue taking in the beautiful coastal beaches of L’Eree, Vazon and Cobo, where the terrain is flat and sandy, ideal for surfers and sun bathers alike!

Head back to St Peter Port and enjoy dinner in one of the town’s fabulous restaurants or bistros.

Little Chapel, Les Vauxbelets Guernsey Index

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SCOTLAND

Loch Lomond Scotland Index

Engand

Channel Islands

Scotland

Wales

Northern Ireland

SCOTLAND IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF ROBERT BURNS - 4-DAY ITINERARY

Day One

Day Four

From Glasgow head south-west for Kilmarnock, where his first published book of poems – the famous ‘Kilmarnock Edition’ of 1786 – was printed. Burns was farming at Mossgiel, Mauchline at the time. That meant Kilmarnock was his market and business town. He was well liked there and local business people assisted in raising funds for the publication. Today, Kilmarnock is still the headquarters of the Robert Burns World Federation. Continue to Ayr and overnight.

Take the road northwards for Edinburgh. Scotland’s capital is where he achieved fame as a ‘ploughman poet’. The Writers Museum exhibits manuscripts and other materials associated with Burns, while the city also has a Burns Monument beside Calton Hill. The grave of ‘Clarinda’, Mrs Agnes M’Lehose, with whom Burns had a passionate affair – but only by letter! – is in the Canongate Churchyard, off the Royal Mile. Burns wrote ‘Ae Fond Kiss, and then we sever’, perhaps Scotland’s greatest song of parting, as a result of meeting her. Literary tours are also on offer, to find out more about Robert Burns and the many other writers who shaped Edinburgh, the first UNESCO city of literature.

Day Two Explore Ayr, then travel a short way south to Alloway. The town of Ayr still has features from Burns’ day, notably the Auld Brig – The Old Bridge in his poem ‘The Brigs of Ayr’. The present Wallace Tower, in the High Street, also mentioned in the same poem, replaced the ancient original in 1834. The town also has a Burns statue, in the square named after him. Ayr is also at the centre of the annual Burns an’ a’ that Festival, which brings the Burns theme into the 21st century. Several more of the sites associated with Burns and his early years are in the Burns National Heritage Park in Alloway and include Burns Cottage, Museum and the Tam o' Shanter Experience, as well as Auld Alloway Kirk, Burns Monument and the Brig o’ Doon.

Overnight in Ayr.

Day Three Take the road to Mauchline, east of Ayr, with its many Burns connections. Mauchline Churchyard was the final resting place of many of his contemporaries, including the local Mauchline character Willie Fisher, whose religious aspirations were satirised (and immortalised) in the unforgettable ‘Holy Willie’s Prayer’. The present Poosie Nancie’s pub has direct links back to Burns time – Nancie was the landlady in Burns’ day. Burns’ poem ‘The Holy Fair’ describes the high spirits of Mauchline Holy Fair, a tradition still observed in the town. Take the main A76 south for Dumfries, passing Ellisland Farm on the way. From this farm, Burns moved to Dumfries in 1791. The house in which he eventually lived is now a museum with some Burns artefacts. The Burns Mausoleum, his last resting place, is in St Michael’s Churchyard close by.

Overnight Dumfries.

Burns Monument Strathclyde, Scotland Index

200

SCOTLAND CASTLES AND GARDENS OF SOUTHERN SCOTLAND - 5-DAY ITINERARY

Day One From Prestwick take the coast road, the A719, A77 by way of Culzean Castle southwards through Girvan, then continuing south to discover some of the fine gardens around the ‘hammerhead’ of the Rinns of Galloway, including Logan Botanic Garden. Contrasting with the grand themes and vistas of Castle Kennedy Gardens, smaller-scale planting schemes such as Ardwell Gardens and Glenwhan Gardens offer plenty for the enthusiast. They are also reminders of the gentle climate and mild airs enjoyed by the area, especially appreciated by a range of southern hemisphere plants to be seen in gardens here, as well as rhododendrons and azaleas. After exploring some of the gardens here, go east on the A75 for the Newton Stewart area.

Day Two Divert from the A75 for Kirkcudbright, with the distinctive outline of MacLellan’s Castle on the town skyline. This 16th-century work is transitional, showing the changing priorities of the time – from defensive needs to comfort and prestige.

Kirkcudbright has a fascinating artistic heritage thanks to its connections to the artists’ group known as ‘The Glasgow Boys’, notably EA Hornel. Visit his former home, Broughton House, which also features a garden with some Japanese elements. From Kirkcudbright, go north-east for Castle Douglas and Threave Castle, on an island in the river. (Ring the bell and the boatman will take you across.) Also within easy reach is Threave Garden. Continue east for Dalbeattie, then take the coastal loop (A710) to visit Arbigland Garden, with its primulas amongst the woodland and sheltered stream-side walks.

Day Three Continue east via Dumfries, taking the coastal B725 to visit Caerlaverock Castle. This is a moated medieval fortress of a unique triangular design. Continue the coastal route to Gretna, taking the A7/B6357/B6399 for Hermitage Castle in its lonely setting in the hills. Then continue north for Hawick and Jedburgh, with Monteviot House Gardens nearby. These attractive riverside gardens have a terrace, rose garden, herbaceous garden, pinetum and water garden.

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Index

SCOTLAND CASTLES AND GARDENS OF SOUTHERN SCOTLAND - 5-DAY ITINERARY

Day Four Head for Kelso to visit Floors Castle, then take A698 east for Coldstream and The Hirsel Estate. The parkland gardens here are noted for their rhododendrons in spring.

Turn north by A6112 for Manderston, a magnificent Edwardian residence near the town of Duns. Then go west on the A6105. A short diversion to the south means you can enjoy (for free!) magnificent views of the rolling Borders countryside from the restored ramparts of Hume Castle. Minor roads here also lead on to Mellerstain, another large countryhouse set in imposing grounds.

Day Five Continue to go west, with a possible diversion north along the A68 for Thirlestane Castle. The magnificent castle here has a history going back to the 13th century, with extensive re-modelling and extensions taking place over the centuries. Alternatively, head for Melrose with nearby Abbotsford, Sir Walter Scott’s mansion and Priorwood Garden, specialising in flowers for drying, within Melrose itself, next to the Abbey.

From the Melrose area, follow the valley of the River Tweed westwards by the A72.

Kailzie Gardens lies on the south side of the river, between Innerleithen and Peebles, close to Traquair House. On a commanding riverside site just west of Peebles, Neidpath Castle is an imposing 14th-century L-plan towerhouse.

Melrose Abbey Scottish Borders, Scotland Index

202

SCOTLAND HIGHLAND WILDLIFE - 9-DAY ITINERARY

Day One Just south of Fort William on the A82, take the Corran Ferry across Loch Linnhe for Ardgour, taking the A861 to reach Loch Sunart via Strontian. Around Loch Sunart are natural oakwoods, with a wide range of birdlife. Visit Ardnamurchan point, Scotland’s most westerly landmark, the lighthouse here offers a spectacular vantage point for bird and whale watching.

Day Two Circle north through Moidart (A861) to join “The Road to the Isles” for the ferry port of Mallaig. The Mallaig-Armadale ferry link takes you to Skye – an excellent wildlife destination with a range of options from otter watching at Kylerhea, to taking a wildlife or whale-watching cruise.

Day Three On returning to the mainland via the Skye Bridge, go north, round Loch Carron, taking A896 for Shieldaig and the Torridons, noting en route Rassal Ashwood, the most northerly of its kind in Britain. By exploring the Torridon Hills, there are excellent opportunities to view red deer, with golden eagle also likely. Go east through Glen Torridon to reach the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, with a nature trail by Loch Maree (A832).

Day Four Continue north beyond Gairloch, enjoying Loch Ewe (otters here) and coastal views.

Look for birds of prey, e.g. merlin, from the road on the way to the Corrieshalloch Gorge – there is good variety of woodland, with interesting plants. Take the A835 for Ullapool. North again, explore the Inverpolly National Nature Reserve with golden eagle, red deer and, perhaps, wild cat. There are many species of moorland birds to be found here.

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SCOTLAND HIGHLAND WILDLIFE - 9-DAY ITINERARY

Day Five Continue north, taking the road (signposted) for Handa Island. This nature reserve is noted for its seabird colonies, and nesting skuas and divers. The A838 reaches the north coast at the Kyle of Durness. Minibus trips go west to the lighthouse at Cape Wrath. Walk from Balnakeil Bay to see puffins at Faraid Head.

Day Six Habitat of peaty moorland interlaced with small lochans, habitat for shorteared owl and hen harrier. Sample it from the A897 at Forsinard.

Day Seven Reaching the coast road, A9 southbound, there is also plenty ofnature interest on the east coast. You might see osprey fishing on Loch Fleet near Golspie, also noted for its sea-duck, and there are numerous places to observe wading birds and ducks, for example on the salt-flats and beaches around Dornoch.

Day Eight & Nine Continuing down the A9, look for red kite on the Black Isle. Visit Chanonry Point, where you can spot dolphins from the beach – pop in to the Dolphin and Seal Centre at North Kessock first for the latest information on sightings and advice on the best time to visit the Point. Continue beyond Inverness, southwards, to reach the valley of the Spey and the Cairngorms National Park, Scotland’s largest. It includes the most extensive area of high ground in Britain, much of it only accessible on foot or ski. As well as sub-Arctic landscapes, it has a variety of woodland habitats, most notably pinewoods and extensive heather moorland. Bird species range from the high-level ptarmigan on the tops to smaller species such as crested tit and Scottish crossbill.

The Cairngorms National Park hosts a wealth of wildlife attractions, including the Loch Garten Osprey Centre, Rothiemurchus Estate, the Highland Wildlife Park, Kingussie and the Cairngorm Mountain Railway; spend the last two days of your tour exploring at your leisure.

Inverpolly Nature Reserve Highlands, Scotland Index

204

SCOTLAND ISLAND ADVENTURES - 7-DAY ITINERARY

Day One

Day Five

From the Ayrshire port of Ardrossan, take the ferry to Arran. This island, sometimes called ‘Scotland in Miniature’ because it has features of both Highland and Lowland Scotland, has been a popular holiday destination for generations. Brodick Castle and Country Park is a popular attraction and the island also has an excellent heritage museum. Take time to drive round the island by the coast road (the A841), with a distillery, castle and prehistoric sites to visit including atmospheric standing stones on Machrie Moor; also fine mountain views, including Goat Fell, to the north. In addition, fresh local produce is an island feature and there is also a Taste Trail.

To Iona. Explore the island, its abbey and beaches, then return to Mull, going back east on the A849. If time permits loop around the west coast of the island on the B8035, enjoying wild coastal scenery by Loch na Keal and Ulva, then taking the B8073 via Calgary for Tobermory. There is a museum, distillery, craft shops and a gallery in this attractive little town, founded originally as a fishing station.

Day Two Leave the island by the Lochranza to Claonaig ferry. Back on the mainland, called Kintyre, take the B8001 north to Kennacraig for the ferry to Islay, arriving at Port Ellen. Islay is noted for whisky distilling and there is a choice of distilleries to visit, one being Bowmore Distillery, north of Port Ellen on the A846. Take the A847 westward for the Museum of Islay Life, return east for Loch Gruinart a nature reserve with fine seascapes, seals and geese in winter.

Day Three Take the A846 east for the short ferry crossing from Port Askaig to Jura. This island has one road, one distillery, one hotel, few people and lots of red deer. Visit it for a flavour of the wild and remote. A sign lets you know where the public road stops! – and beyond this is the remote farmhouse where the writer George Orwell wrote his futuristic novel ‘1984.’ Either stay overnight on Jura or return to Islay.

Day Six Leave Mull on the ferry from Tobermory to Kilchoan, continuing on the B8007 through the beautiful scenery of the Ardnamurchan peninsula. Take the A861 at Salen for the ‘Road to the Isles’, the A830, and the ferry port of Mallaig. Cross to Armadale on Skye. Visit Armadale Castle Gardens andMuseum of the Isles, then, taking A851 north for A87, overnight in Broadford area.

Day Seven From Broadford, take B8083 for Elgol and views of the Cuillin Hills. Return to Broadford, taking the A87 for Portree, the island’s main town. Continue north on A855 – magnificent scenery at several points, notably the Quiraing. Circle west to join A87, then continue west on A850 for Dunvegan Castle. Return to the mainland, crossing on the Skye road bridge to Kyle of Lochalsh.

Day Four Leave Islay from Port Ellen, ferry returns to Kennacraig. Take the A83 north to Lochgilphead and join the A816, heading north to Oban. Cross from Oban to Craignure on Mull. Torosay Castle lies only a few minutes east of the ferry quay, with Duart Castle further round the bay. Many visitors take the A849 west for the Ross of Mull and the beautiful island of Iona. Overnight on the way at Bunessan or Fionnphort.

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Iona Abbey Strathclyde, Scotland Index

SCOTLAND A LITERARY TOUR OF SCOTLAND - 5-DAY ITINERARY

Day One

Day Four

Starting in the picturesque town of Alloway, the Burns National Heritage Park and Trail celebrates the life and works of Robert Burns. The park takes in the cottage where the bard was born in 1759, a museum and a monument, as well as sites from his most famous works such as Auld Brig o’ Doon and Alloway Kirk and the Tam O’ Shanter Experience where modern technology brings an old tale to life. Head south on the A713 to Dumfries where more attractions offer an insight into Scotland’s most celebrated poet, including the Robert Burns Centre, Burns House and his Mausoleum.

Stay overnight in Dumfries and pay a visit to Burns’ favourite pub ‘The Globe Inn’ where you can toast the Bard and even see his favourite chair. If time allows, visit Ellisland Farm to the north of Dumfries, off the A76. This was Burns’ home for three years and where he found great inspiration for his poetry. Wigtown to the west of Dumfries is Scotland’s National Booktown where you can spend time browsing the shelves of bookshops, this makes for an enjoyable diversion for booklovers.

There are many more literary links in Scotland’s capital, perhaps the most literary place in Scotland and setting for the annual Edinburgh International Festival – a key event in the city’s festival calendar. Edinburgh has also the distinction of being designated the first World City of Literature by UNESCO. As an aid to creativity, the city has inspired writers from Robert Louis Stevenson (who used the story of the city’s real-life Deacon Brodie as a theme for his Doctor Jekyll and Mr Hyde) to Muriel Spark, whose book The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie is deeply rooted in the city. JK Rowling, meanwhile, created the Harry Potter series while living here. Other notable authors born here include Kenneth Grahame, writer of the children’s classic The Wind in the Willows and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes. The city is also associated with contemporary writers, such as the detective novels of Ian Rankin and Alexander McCall Smith, as well as JK Rowling’s world of wizardry. The city’s Writers Museum explores the links between the city and Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns and Robert Louis Stevenson and you can also enjoy a literary pub tour.

Day Two Head north-east to cross the M74 to Moffat and via the A708 to St Mary’s Loch, a scenic spot with links to Sir Walter Scott, the English Lakeland poet William Wordsworth and also the Scots poet and writer James Hogg. (Look for the lochside statue.) Continue east to Galashiels and Melrose to Abbotsford, built by Scott, and containing a treasure trove of Scottish historical and literary material. The famous scenic location of Scott’s View lies to the north-east.

Day Three Turn north for Rosslyn Chapel, also mentioned by Scott, but more recently playing a crucial role in the plot of the blockbuster novel The Da Vinci Code. Other literary sites in the Lothians are nearby, including Gullane in East Lothian. The attractive sandy beach here features in an exciting episode in Robert Louis Stevenson’s Catriona.

Nearer Edinburgh, the little community of Swanston, below the Pentland Hills on the very edge of the city, is a setting for part of Stevenson’s St Ives.

Index

Day Five Take the M90 for Perth, then the A9 for Dunkeld. Signposts from the main road here mark The Hermitage, the woodlands by the River Braan. In the 18th century, an early Duke of Atholl built a picturesque folly, which still stands, overlooking the foaming river. It was called Ossian’s Hall, a reference to the then wildly-popular Poems of Ossian by James MacPherson. He was supposedly the discoverer of ancient Gaelic texts by a bard called Ossian, though the work was mostly from his imagination. His writings were the blockbusters of their day, translated into several European languages, and had a great impact on contemporary European literature – Goethe and Napoleon were fans! From Dunkeld it is a very easy and pleasant drive along the edge of the Highlands north-eastwards (A923/A926) via Blairgowrie to Kirriemuir.

This former weaving town is a gateway to the Angus Glens. It was also the birthplace of JM Barrie, the creator of Peter Pan. His birthplace house is in the care of the National Trust for Scotland. His early years in Kirriemuir with his many brothers and sisters influenced the characters in his work. Even the outside wash house became his first theatre! There is a fascinating exhibition about Barrie’s life, as well as memorabilia and theatrical costumes. From Kirriemuir, return to Edinburgh via Dundee. Then go south for Edinburgh.

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SCOTLAND ROMANTIC SCOTLAND - 5-DAY ITINERARY

Day One Take the road through Liddesdale in Scottish Borders for Hermitage Castle, visited by Mary, Queen of Scots, then head south west via Gretna Green which, like other places along the border, was a destination for eloping couples in the days when Scotland had less strict wedding laws! Continue west for Dumfries, with its Robert Burns connections, and a good base for exploring other romantic connections in the area.

These include, to the south, Sweetheart Abbey, a red sandstone ruin with a romantic tale, while, to the north-west on the B729, you’ll find Maxwelton House, a name famous in the world of traditional Scottish song.

Day Two The Solway coast and, on the A711, Dundrennan Abbey, another picturesque ruin associated with Mary, Queen of Scots. Loop round via picturesque Kirkcudbright to head north for Ayrshire and the area associated with Robert Burns, where a whole range of places, centred on the Burns Heritage Park at Alloway, Ayr, are worth exploring for their connection to this romantic figure in Scotland’s literary life. In 1791 he famously wrote what is perhaps Scotland’s saddest and most romantic song of parting – ‘Ae fond kiss and then we sever’.

Day Three Romantic city break. For a start, it is the only city in the UK which is a burial site for the remains of St Valentine. With a wealth of art galleries, you can easily follow up themes such as the painters of the Romantic Movement – and, while enjoying the Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery, in particular, find out about one of Scotland’s most famous architects, Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

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SCOTLAND ROMANTIC SCOTLAND - 5-DAY ITINERARY

Day Four There’s a special romance in the Loch Lomond area – and it lies close to Glasgow, to the north of the city. Perhaps it came about through the famous Scottish song ‘The Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond’, with its poignant and romantic theme of the soldier destined never to walk with his true love again by the ‘bonnie banks’. In Balloch at the south end of the loch you can orientate yourself at the Gateway Centre, then enjoy the entertainments and shopping at the Loch Lomond Shores visitor centre. Next, take the east bank road, via Drymen and Balmaha, with plenty of places to stop off and take a walk by the wooded shores. The road stops at Rowardennan – though you can continue on foot to enjoy the loch and mountain views.

Day Five Retrace the shore-side route as far as Drymen and take the A811 eastwards, turning north on the A81 for the Trossachs. This is the part of Scotland where tourism first began at the dawning of the Romantic Age before the end of the 18th century, when Highland scenery was seen in a new way – as exciting, daring and filled with tales of adventure. The Highland clansmen themselves were likewise seen as adventurous and daring – and the most famous and romantic of them was Rob Roy Macgregor. Though a real-life Highlander (d.1734) his exploits became legendary. Even Sir Walter Scott wrote a novel about him. Beyond Aberfoyle (on A81) continue west past Loch Ard to Stronachlachar on Loch Katrine. Rob Roy was born by the loch, a little further west.

Take the road west through Glen Arklet, where Rob courted his wife Mary of Comar, and drop down to the shores of Loch Lomond at Inversnaid. Even this little place has its romantic overtones: it is the title of a romantic poem by the English poet Gerard Manley Hopkins, who was inspired by the waterfall here. Return east to Aberfoyle, going north over the Duke’s Pass (the A821) for Callander.

Loch Katrine Trossachs, Scotland Index

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SCOTLAND SCOTLAND IN FILM - 6-DAY ITINERARY

Day One

Day Four

Starting in Ayrshire, Culzean Castle’s exteriors are Lord Summerisle’s grand home in the cult film The Wicker Man though this is just one of many locations associated with the film. Head south and east via the Galloway Forest Park for a whole range of other settings, including the gardens at Logan Botanic Garden and Castle Kennedy, as well as the colourful houses and closes (alleyways) of Kirkcudbright. The fearsome wicker figure burned in the sacrifice scene at the end of the film was set up at Burrows Head in the Machars, with St Ninian’s Cave nearby.

From Crathie head north through Huntly and Banff to another Scottish film icon: the phonebox which featured in Local Hero in the scene when MacIntyre (Peter Riegert) describes the Northern Lights to his boss Happer (Burt Lancaster). Pennan’s much photographed phonebox is still there, although in the movie it appears on the quayside, not its actual location today! From Pennan head westwards along the A98 towards Inverness and to the top of the Great Glen and Loch Ness, the setting of the film The Water Horse – Legend of the Deep, an enchanting story about its most mysterious inhabitant, the Loch Ness Monster. Ardkinglas House in Argyll was used as the main exterior location in the film.

Day Two Turn north east to Rosslyn Chapel, the location featured in Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code movie and book. Continue to Edinburgh, where the gritty portrayal of Leith in Trainspotting is already history, as the old seaport has had a far ranging facelift and now offers a fine range of eating and drinking venues as well as quality shopping.

Walking tours of Leith are on offer for a real insight into the character of the place.

Day Three From Edinburgh, cross the Forth Bridge and follow signs east for St Andrews. This handsome east coast town features in Chariots of Fire – golf fans will recognise St Andrews’ famous Royal and Ancient Golf Clubhouse in the background of a running sequence. For that matter, real film buffs will observe the camouflage netting covering parked cars in one shot here! Continue north via the Tay Bridge and Dundee and pick up the A93 to drive through the Spittal of Glenshee to reach Balmoral Castle in Crathie, near Braemar. Balmoral Castle and Estate has been the highland home of the Royal Family since 1852 and featured in the Oscar winning film The Queen, a 2006 portrayal of Elizabeth II.

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Day Five Follow Loch Ness down through the Great Glen to Fort William. Glen Nevis is easily accessible from Fort William, in the shadow of Ben Nevis. Other locations nearby include the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, which featured in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. The spectacular train chase scene features the Hogwarts Express and a flying Ford Anglia car, crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, on the Glenfinnan estate in the west Highlands. Experience your own magical train journey by taking a trip on the Jacobite Steam Train between Fort William and Mallaig.

Day Six From Fort William head along the A82, through Glencoe and across Rannoch Moor, one of the most atmospheric landscapes in Scotland. Continue east for Killin and the picturesque Falls of Dochart, a backdrop in Casino Royale with its galaxy of (vintage) stars including Peter Sellers, Ursula Andress, David Niven and Orson Welles. Turn south via Callander to reach Doune Castle, where the Monty Python team once filmed a memorable scene in Monty Python and the Holy Grail involving a giant wooden rabbit!

Index

SCOTLAND SCOTLAND’S HEROES - 5-DAY ITINERARY

Day One

Day Four

To see some of the sites associated with the Scots and their battles, start on the A1 and travel to Dunbar. Though the castle here is no more than a fragment by the harbour, it once controlled routes south. King Edward I of England defeated John Balliol, King of Scotland here in 1296. Balliol had been appointed King by Edward but his divided loyalties meant he made the wrong political moves. Continue round the Edinburgh city bypass for Roslin. In 1303 the Scots defeated a superior English force here. Roslin has a Wallace’s Cave nearby and is also home to the famous Rosslyn Chapel. Return to the city bypass, taking the Forth Bridge for Fife.

Strategic location in the centre of Scotland is closely associated with the Wars of Independence. Stirling Old Bridge over the River Forth is one of Scotland’s finest surviving mediaeval bridges and recalls the famous victory of Sir William Wallace in 1297. The full story is told at the National Wallace Monument nearby. The Bannockburn Heritage Centre on the outskirts of Stirling tells the dramatic tale of how a great army, sent with King Edward II of England at its head, to relieve Stirling Castle, confronted a smaller Scots’ force who gradually forced them into the rivermarshes. Unable to deploy heavy cavalry effectively, the English were then destroyed, King Edward barely escaping.

Day Two Take the A921 coast road. Look for the monument to King Alexander III at Kinghorn.

Alexander died here when his horse stumbled and he fell to his death in 1286. The incident began a period of turmoil, culminating in the Wars of Independence. (The intermarrying of the royal houses of Scotland and England had created controversies of inheritance and succession.) Continue through Fife, as time permits, taking the Tay bridge via Dundee and the coast road for Arbroath. This town with its abbey, founded in 1178, is associated with the Declaration of Arbroath, a letter to the Pope, signed by all the churchmen and nobility of Scotland, asking him to accept Scottish independence. Some say this was the most important document in Scotland’s history, and uniquely described a king’s right to rule as dependent on the approval of the people. Continue to Aberdeen, where a magnificent statue of Sir William Wallace stands in Union Terrace. He appears to be gesturing towards His Majesty’s Theatre!

Day Five Continue south through Glasgow via the M80/A80. Sir William Wallace was betrayed here (at Robroyston) in 1305 and sent as a prisoner to England where he was subjected to the grisly English penalty for treason, namely the ritual of hanging, disembowelling while still alive, and finally beheading, his limbs being sent for display in Scotland as an example to others. Take the A73 for Lanark. This town in the Clyde Valley is strongly associated with Sir William Wallace as he lived and was married here at St Kentigern’s Church. Other sites associated with Scotland’s freedom fighters in the south of Scotland include Elderslie, between Johnstone and Paisley, west of Glasgow. Bruce’s Cave, associated with the story of Bruce’s encounter with a spider whose efforts inspired the Scots leader to ‘try, try, try again’ is on the island of Arran – though other caves elsewhere in Scotland also have claims to the story!

Day Three Take the A96 north-west beyond Inverurie, following signs for Archaeolink. Here you can find out more about the Battle of Mons Graupius – a reminder that the country which became Scotland has always been a battleground – on this occasion the local tribes were defeated by the Romans in 83 AD. Continue west by the B9002, reaching the A97 and head south for Kildrummy Castle. This castle was visited at least twice by King Edward of England when his forces occupied Scotland. Continue south to reach Royal Deeside, taking the A93 over Glenshee for Perth, then the A9 for Stirling.

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SCOTLAND SCOTLAND’S FINEST FLAVOURS - 7-DAY ITINERARY

Day One There is plenty for foodies to explore in and around Castle Douglas, including traditional butchers, a nearby smokehouse, delicatessens, chocolatiers, plus a range of restaurants and bistros. And nearby Threave Gardens even has a walled garden which once supplied fruit and vegetables to the main house. Overnight Castle Douglas.

Day Two Head for Glasgow. As Scotland’s largest city, it has a wide range of restaurants, with many old favourites, including Sloan’s Bar and Restaurant. Best check local magazine listings or the local Visitor Information Centre for what is currently hot in the cosmopolitan city dining scene. Overnight Glasgow.

Day Three Take the road by Loch Lomond for the north with perhaps a coffee-stop and a browse through the quality shopping at Loch Lomond Shores at Balloch, also the attractive location for one of Scotland’s popular Farmers’ Markets on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month. Alternatively, there should be time for a cruise from either Balloch or from Tarbet, further up the loch, where your road turns west for the high pass of the Rest and Be Thankful. From there descend to Loch Fyne and the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar at Cairndow. The award-winning Fyne Ales Brewery is also at the head of the loch and you can sample its products at local establishments such as the Creggans Inn to the south at Strachur. Both the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar and the Creggans Inn are also on the area’s Seafood Trail. Overnight Inveraray area.

Day Four From Inveraray, go north for the head of Loch Awe. Take the short walk across the lochside fields to see the former Campbells’ stronghold of Kilchurn Castle. Then continue eastwards where the Real Food Café at Tyndrum serves classic fish and chips - and much more - from locally-sourced produce. Continue east, pausing perhaps at the main street shops of the attractive little town of Aberfeldy. Among the food businesses in and around Aberfeldy is a smokehouse and a chocolatier. Continue to the main A9 ‘The Highland Road’, turning north for Pitlochry and overnight.

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Oyster farming at Loch Fyne Strathclyde, Scotland Index

SCOTLAND SCOTLAND’S FINEST FLAVOURS - 7-DAY ITINERARY

Day Five The popular visitor resort of Pitlochry has two distilleries, with the Blair Athol Distillery by the main road at the east end of the town and a brewery at the Moulin Inn above the town. The nearby Blair Atholl Estates, at the centre of which stands the landmark attraction of Blair Castle, offers plenty for visitors. Take a Land Rover Safari for a real insight into the life of a Highland estate. An excursion northwards to the wellstocked and very popular House of Bruar is another option. If visiting Bruar, return a short way by the main A9 and overnight Pitlochry.

Day Six Take the A9 south to Dunkeld, where there is a fine choice of cafes and foodie places along the main street, as well as a picturesque riverside walk by Dunkeld Cathedral.

Go east from here via Kirriemuir. Continue to Arbroath, famed for its smokies, produced by local business such as the Arbroath Smokery. The haddock-smoking process is now officially recognised as creating a product with Protected Geographical Indication, (like Champagne and Parma Ham!) so that ‘real’ Arbroath smokies must be made within an eight mile radius of the town! Continue south via Dundee and over the Tay Bridge for Fife for overnight in the St Andrews area.

Day Seven The East Neuk (Scots for corner) of Fife has a choice of organic eating places of all kinds from award-winning fish and chips in Anstruther to friendly cafés at Falkland and artisan producers such as the St Andrews Farmhouse Cheese Company. Continue south for overnight in Edinburgh, where it is said there are more eating places per head of population than anywhere else in the UK, including Iglu, with its commitment to cutting food miles. Further afield, the Lothians also have plenty to offer: for example, the Sun Inn at Dalkeith.

Blair Atholl Castle Tayside, Scotland Index

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WALES

Blue Lagoon Abereiddi Index

Engand

Channel Islands

Scotland

Wales

Northern Ireland

WALES AROUND WALES IN 7 DAYS

SNOWDONIA No visit to Wales is complete without a journey into one of its most spectacularly rugged National Parks - Snowdonia with its mix of attractions - both modern, traditional and legendary. Begin the day with a highly recommended and moving visit to Llechwedd Slate Caverns +44 (0) 1766 830306 which traces the life of a Victorian Miner. Continue with a picturesque ride on one of the Great Little Trains of Wales +44 (0) 1286 870549 - (narrow gauge steam railway) from Blaenau Ffestiniog www.eryri-npa.gov.uk www.llechwedd-slate-caverns.co.uk www.greatlittletrainsofwales.co.uk Further south, you’ll find the unique Italianate fantasy village of Portmeirion +44 (0) 1766 770228 created by Sir Clough William - Ellis. Enjoy afternoon tea here in the hotel of the same name.

CASTLES, HISTORIC HOUSES AND GARDENS There’s no escaping the plethora of Wales’ 400 castles.

Some of the most majestic are to be found in Conwy and Caernarfon. In Conwy, you can also take an audio tour around Plas Mawr +44 (0) 1492 580167 – CADW’s refurbished, award winning Elizabethan town house. Then, stroll along the pier to visit the smallest house in Britain and walk the town walls! A short distance south of Conwy you’ll find the National Trust’s famous gardens at Bodnant + 44 (0) 01492 650460, splendid throughout every season. www.conwy.com/plasmawr.html www.conwy.gov.uk www.bodnantgarden.co.uk

Return via Beddgelert and Caernarfon Castle or discover the beautiful coastal scenery of the Llŷn Peninsula. www.portmeirion-village.com

Travelling south via the scenic Horseshoe Pass, you’ll come to Llangollen - home of the International Music Eisteddfod. Stroll around this quaint town with its shops, museums and intriguing Plas Newydd +44 (0) 1978 861 314 - home of the Ladies of Llangollen. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/plas-newydd

ISLE OF ANGLESEY

Alternatively, take a leisurely boat cruise along Telford’s Aqueduct +44 (0) 1978 860702 at nearby Pontcysyllte.

Venture across the Menai Straits for a day of wildlife, history and nature as well as award winning beaches.

Follow a visit to the Castle and Gaol at Beaumaris with a gentle stroll along the waters edge - with the Snowdonia mountain range forming a magnificent backdrop.

Explore the grounds of the National Trust’s Plas Newydd +44 (0) 1248 714795. www.anglesey.gov.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk Anglesey has its fair share of Celtic history so you’ll be able to rediscover the past at a few selected sites. Visit the lighthouse at South Stack, near Holyhead.

Weather permitting, take a boat trip to Puffin Island to watch the puffins and seals at play. An easy end to the day when you visit the village with the longest place name and learn how to say it! - Llanfair PG. Don’t forget to collect the platform ticket with the full name of the railway station on it.

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Slightly north of the town in a superb setting stands the majestic ruin of Valle Crucis Abbey +44 (0) 1978 860326 www.castlewales.com/valle.html www.borderlands.co.uk Erddig +44 (0) 1978 355314 - a country house with a difference having gained a reputation as ‘the most evocative upstairs- downstairs house in Britain’ - owned by the National Trust is located a few miles east of Llangollen and well worth a visit. www.nationaltrust.org.uk From the Llangollen area, travel south through Mid Wales to Welshpool where you’ll find HRH The Prince of Wales’ favourite Castle – Powis Castle +44 (0) 1938 551920 www.castlewales.com/powis www.nationaltrust.org.uk www.powys.gov.uk

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WALES AROUND WALES IN 7 DAYS Take time to explore the tiny village of Berriew with its magpie houses, Andrew Logan’s Museum of Modern Art +44 (0) 1686 640689. Further south at Presteigne you can visit the Judges Lodgings +44 (0) 1544 260650 . Enjoy the audio tour with the butler and maids as your companions. www.andrewlogan.com/museum www.judgeslodging.org.uk Then, head inland to picturesque Lake Vyrnwy +44 (0) 1691 870692 - set amongst 23,000 acres of forests, farms and moorland. The Lake Vyrnwy dam is one of Wales’ most impressive water features. Watch out for the neo-Gothic water tower which looms over the lake. The Visitor Centre offers plenty of information on the wildlife in the area so try a gentle stroll along the lakeside or, for the more adventurous, try quad-biking in the hills above the lake!

Relax later with Afternoon Tea in the lounge which overlooks this beautiful lake. www.lakevyrnwy.com Machynlleth, an intriguing market town and home of Celtica +44 (0) 1654 702702 - an exhibition illustrating how the Celts and their culture have influenced European history over the last 3000 years is worth visiting. www.celticawales.com Travel through one of Mid Wales’ most dramatic routes - the Elan Valley. The area’s four lakes are some of the most scenic in Wales. Stop off at the Elan Valley Centre in the Elan village before heading westwards. At the picturesque village of Devil’s Bridge it’s time to board one of Wales’ nine narrow gauge railways - the Rheidol Valley Railway +44 (0) 1970 625 819 for a journey which takes you down the valley to the Victorian promenade town of Aberystwyth. On arrival there’s a chance to take a late afternoon stroll around the shops, along the promenade or for the energetic, up Constitution Hill. www.ceredigion.gov.uk www.rheidolrailway.co.uk

Continue northwards through Fishguard where the ferry sails daily for the port of Rosslare in Ireland, and then head inland to discover why West Wales excels in homemade produce.

Surrounded on three sides by the sea, enjoying a mild climate and good soil, Pembrokeshire is the ideal place to find home-grown food that is second to none.

This afternoon you can sample the art of cheese making at Llangloffan +44 (0) 1348 891241 which is a working dairy farm followed by a visit to Pembertons +44 (0) 1994 448766 - for all those with a sweet tooth, this is the home of handmade chocolates www.visitwales.co.uk/about-wales-guide-to-wales-culture-people-and-language/food/welsh-cheese

www.pembertonfarms.com Castell Henllys +44 (0) 01239 891319 is a genuine Iron Age hill fort site, complete with re-constructed round-houses and animal shelters set amidst the hills and ancient woodlands of north Pembrokeshire with superb views to the mystical summit of Carn Ingli. www.pembrokeshirecoast.org.uk/default.asp?PID=261 Pembrokeshire has its fair share of early man-made features dating back thousands of years and no finer or larger example exists in West Wales than at Pentre Ifan in the Preseli Hills near Newport.

This morning, you’ll visit probably the most photographed town in South West Wales Tenby. With its quaint narrow cobbled streets, bustling harbour and award winning sandy beaches, this walled town appears on everyone’s itinerary! Come and see why.

A short journey takes you to the town of Pembroke – the birthplace of the Tudor dynasty and you’ll certainly find history and heritage in abundance here.

The imposing Castle - birthplace of Henry VII stands sentinel over the town and is surrounded by Mill Pond which is a hive of watersports and a haven of activity for wild birds and otters.

West Wales is characterised by large areas of outstanding natural beauty and picturesque towns steeped in history. The day begins at its southernmost tip and smallest city - St Davids! Founded by Wales’ Patron Saint, the Cathedral nestles in a grassy hollow beneath the rooftops. Next to it is the most impressive medieval palace in Wales - the Bishop’s Palace +44 (0) 1437 720517. www.castlewales.com/sdbishop www.pembrokeshire-holidays.co.uk 215

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WALES AROUND WALES IN 7 DAYS Continue north to the edge of the Black Mountain - the westernmost part of the Brecon Beacons and you’ll come across Wales’ most dramatically sited Castle at Carreg Cennen +44 (0) 1558 822291. Closeby you can browse among the many crafts in the Trapp Art & Craft Centre +44 (0) 1269 850362 before taking the scenic route to Pumsaint to the Red Kite Information Centre +44 (0) 1558 650177 where you can view this rare bird from discrete hides as it feeds in a nearby meadow. www.castlewales.com/carreg www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk www.welshkitetrust.org Under Milk Wood. Visit the little coastal town of Laugharne immortalised by one of the greatest Welsh writers, Dylan Thomas. You can visit The Boathouse +44 (0) 1994 427420 where he lived and wrote the most famous of his works, ‘Under Milk Wood’. www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk Wales’ Second City is Swansea, the birthplace of Dylan Thomas! The city boasts one of Europe’s most stunning waterfront developments - a winning combination of old and new with a fascinating Industrial and Maritime Museum and, of course, the Dylan Thomas Visitor Centre.

Renowned also for great shopping, one of the most interesting and colourful places to shop is the market which is the largest indoor market in Wales and has been in the city since medieval times. Its many stalls are crammed with local produce - especially cockles from nearby Penclawdd - try some.

Swansea sits at the gateway to the beautiful Gower Peninsula. With its vast sandy beaches, sea cliffs, headlands and hauntingly empty stretches of saltmarsh and tidal sands, it’s no surprise to learn that Gower was Britain’s first designated ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Cardiff, the capital city of Wales is now becoming one of Europe’s foremost maritime cities.

The ideal way to find your way around the city and view all the attractions is with Guide Friday + 44 (0) 1789 294466 - a ‘Hop on, Hop off’ bus service found in most UK cities. www.visitcardiff.info www.guidefriday.com

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The bustling city’s ample charms has something for everyone: museums, art galleries, intriguing Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades as well as modern shopping centres. The sports enthusiast will delight in touring the majestic Millennium Stadium one of the finest sporting venues in Europe.

The National Museum & Gallery of Wales +44 (0) 29 2057 3500 houses one of the finest collections of art treasures in Europe. www.nmgw.ac.uk Or, a short journey to the west of Cardiff lies the picturesque Glamorgan Heritage Coastline. Superbly located on the shoreline is St Donat’s +44 (0) 1446 799100 - a medieval castle with many fine original features once owned by the American Newspaper Magnate William Randolph Hearst but now the home of Atlantic College the world’s first international 6th form college. There is an Art Gallery and concert venue here in the converted Tythe Barn. www.castlewales.com/donats www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk Alternatively, visit The Museum of Welsh Life + 44 (0) 29 2057 3500 - an awardwinning attraction celebrating thousands of years of Welsh life. The outdoor museum houses a superb collection of buildings, dwellings and workshops from all over Wales rebuilt in the grounds of St Fagan’s Castle. www.nmgw.ac.uk Rhondda Heritage Park +44 (0) 1443 682036 Put on your miner’s hat and take a journey underground at this former colliery for an experience that moves both body and soul. Enjoy the ‘Shift in Time’ experience before exploring the period shops and village within the museum. www.rhonddaheritagepark.com www.rhondda-cynon-taff.gov.uk Continue your journey through the splendid Brecon Beacons National Park +44 (0) 1874 624437. Depending on the weather you can walk or pony trek through the Park stopping off in the quaint market town of Brecon - home to the famous International Jazz Festival every August. www.breconbeacons.org

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WALES AROUND WALES IN 7 DAYS Hay-on-Wye - second-hand book store capital of the world.

The antique shops and a modern craft centre make Hay on Wye an ideal place to browse. Drive through the narrow lanes up to Hay Bluff and admire the views.

Continue along the sheep strewn roads until you reach the mystical priory at Llanthony - an Augustinian Abbey from the Middle Ages. Part of the Priory still remains and the Prior’s house now forms part of a cosy inn. But it is the tranquillity and splendid setting which brings travellers from far and wide to visit Llanthony to soak up the atmosphere. www.hay-on-wye.co.uk www.castlewales.com/llantho Your journey continues through what has been called the most ’Romantic Valley’ in Wales - the Wye Valley which is also an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Valley’s most famous sight is Tintern Abbey +44 (0) 1291 689251. Glorious in its setting, it is one of the most serene and faithfully preserved ruins in Britain. Further along is the Old Station at Tintern +44 (0) 1291 689566, once a busy stop along the Wye Valley Railway, it now offers an ideal refreshment stop. www.visitwyevalley.com www.castlewales.com/tintern www.tintern.org.uk/station.htm The ancient settlement of Caerleon is the most significant and interesting Roman site in Wales and once housed garrisons of Roman legionnaires. Caerleon’s Roman Amphitheatre +44 (0) 1633 422518 is also said to be the King Arthur’s Round Table of local tradition. Ffwrwm Craft Centre +44 (0) 1633 430777, at the heart of the village has the only collection of wooden Arthurian thrones in the world. www.caerleon.net

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Approximate journey times (no stops included): Towns

Approximate Driving Time

Conwy / Llandudno - Portmeirion

1 ½ hours

Conwy/Llandudno - Llangollen

1 ½ hours

Conwy/Llandudno - Aberystwyth

2 ½ hours

Welshpool - Machynlleth

1 ½ hours

Aberystwyth - Fishguard

2 hours

Fishguard - Pembroke

1 hour

Tenby - Llandeilo

1 ½ hours

Tenby - Swansea

1 ½ hours

Swansea - Cardiff

1 hour

Cardiff - Brecon Beacons

1 hour

Brecon - Hay on Wye

45 minutes

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WALES WALES IN A WEEK

Day 1 Make your first stop in Llangollen. It's an ancient market town situated on the banks of the beautiful River Dee under the watchful gaze of Castell Dinas Br창n. If you're not lucky enough to be here for the International Musical Eisteddfod held each July, there's plenty to explore in its narrow streets.

Head to Conwy and to its castle - a great place to get lost. It has plenty of ramparts, towers, dark passages and dungeons. While you're in Conwy pay a visit to Plas Mawr, a restored Elizabethan townhouse and don't miss Britain's Smallest House.

Approx. distance: Llangollen to Conwy 79km Approx. driving time: 1 hour 15 minutes Overnight suggestion: Conwy, Caernarfon

Day 2 Start by heading south to Caernarfon Castle, a World heritage listed site. It's arguably the finest in Wales. Murder holes, five gates, six portcullises and a moat make for formidable lines of defence.

The Llanberis Road takes you past the foot of Snowdon, the highest mountain in England & Wales. Sir Edmund Hillary and his team trained here before embarking on their journey to the summit of Everest. If you stop at the Pen-y-Gwryd Hotel, you'll see their signatures on the bar's ceiling.

Make sure you stop in Harlech and visit one of the 'Iron Ring Castles'. Situated high upon a rocky outcrop, its seaward side was defended by sheer cliffs, while a deep moat protected the other sides.

Visit Aberystwyth on your way south along the coast. Its a lively University town, and also home to the National Library of Wales - where many of the greatest literary treasures of Wales (and the other Celtic countries) are securely stored.

Approx. distance: Conwy - Caernarfon - Harlech - Aberystwyth 183km Approx. driving time: 3 hours 15 min / 3 hours if starting in Caernarfon Overnight suggestion: Aberystwyth Caenarfon Castle Gwynedd, Wales Index

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WALES WALES IN A WEEK

Day 3

Day 5

A worthwhile detour inland takes you to Devil's Bridge, situated high in the foothills of the Plynlimon Mountains, 19km east of Aberystwyth. The village has three claims to fame: the three bridges, the little narrow gauge steam railway and the cascading waterfalls of the river Mynach.

Explore Swansea and Gower today. The city's oldest building is the ruined Swansea Castle, standing out in more modern surroundings near the shopping centre. At the Dylan Thomas Centre you will find an intriguing exhibition on the poet's life and work. Just a few minutes walk from the city you'll find Swansea's Maritime Quarter. The former docklands have been redeveloped into an attractive waterfront, with its 600-berth marina. The National Waterfont Museum is the place to learn about the industrial, maritime and social history of Wales and it's free.

The west coast is dotted with award winning beaches, rocky smugglers' coves and great cliff-top scenery. If you get close enough to the water, you may even catch a glimpse of the resident dolphins and seals.

Keep going south into Pembrokeshire. There are plenty of great places to visit in this area. Don't miss:- St Davids the smallest city in Britain, more like a small village. This place is special, stuffed full of little art shops, galleries and tea rooms. And of course a cathedral. Tenby: wedged between two massive sandy beaches, it has a castle, town walls, a tiny harbour, and the best sand in Wales for making sandcastles.

Approx. distance: Aberystwyth - Devil's Bridge - Pembrokeshire 180km Approx. driving time: 2 hours 30 minutes Overnight suggestion: Tenby

Next, head to Gower. You'll soon find out why the 29km long peninsula was designated UK's first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Visit open moors, grazed common land, salt marshes and beautiful beaches. There’s also many historic churches, castles and prehistoric burial sites to explore. The Gower Heritage Centre based around an 800 year-old water powered mill, with craft workshops and tearooms is worth a visit.

Approx. distance: Swansea to Gower 13km Approx. driving time: 20 minutes Overnight suggestion: Swansea

Day 4 Take the coastal drive to Laugharne, where Dylan Thomas wrote 'Under Milk Wood'.

You can still see his writing shed overlooking Carmarthen Bay. Then drive towards Llanelli and the Millennium Coastal Park which occupies approximately 20km of coastline on the Burry Estuary, overlooking Gower. It's a centre for lots of different leisure activities, including the continuous traffic-free cycle/footpath, championship golf course and watersports centre.

The National Wetlands Centre of Wales is also located in the park. It’s Wales' best place to see wildfowl and waders.

Approx. distance: Tenby to Llanelli 94km Approx. driving time: 1 hour 35 minutes + 25 minutes if overnight at Swansea Overnight suggestion: Swansea Fishing boats Tenby, Dyfed, Wales 219

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Day 6 At Rhondda Heritage Park in the South Wales Valleys, ex-miners will take you to the pit bottom to explore the mine and experience life underground.

Continue north to Cyfarthfa Castle, set in 64ha of parkland, in Merthyr Tydfil. There's lots of fine decorative art to admire in the museum and art gallery's Regency rooms.

Find out about social and industrial history in the atmospheric basement.

Your next stop is the Brecon Mountain Railway, just three miles north of Merthyr Tydfil. These little, tall-stacked steam engines will take you on a seven mile trip through superb scenery in the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Approx. distance: Swansea to Abergavenny including stops 120km Approx. driving time: 2 hours 15 minutes Overnight suggestion: Abergavenny

Day 4 Make your way to the quaint market town of Crickhowell. Allow time to explore the town as it's a delight for quirky shopping. The social hub is The Bear Hotel, an ancient coaching inn dating back to 1432 which has twice won the Best Pub in Britain award.

Your last stop is Hay-on-Wye. If you choose to take the slower scenic route to Hay then stop at Llanthony Priory en-route. Hay-on-Wye is famous for one thing – books.

There are millions of them, and they are everywhere. The castle's a book shop, the cinema's a book shop, the fire station's a book shop, the alleyways are book shops.

It also hosts an annual festival in May/June and has placed the town well and truly on the world literary map.

Approx. distance: Abergavenny to Hay-on-Wye including stops 60km Approx. driving time: 1 hour 45 minutes Overnight suggestion: Hay-on-Wye

Sgwd Gwladys Waterfall Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales Index

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WALES CARDIFF ITINERARY 2012

Cardiff/Caerdydd

National Museum of Wales

An Overview:

You’re likely to spend a lot of your time in the next building; the National Gallery and Museum of Wales. It’s the big domed one next to City Hall. The museum is one of the finest in the UK. If you had the time you could quite happily spend a few days in the wandering the galleries, but because you don’t, highlights include: the Evolution of Wales gallery; packed with high tech stuff; moving dinosaurs, earthquakes, volcanoes that sort of thing. The Archaeology Galleries are packed with Roman relics, Celtic Crosses, and Bronze Age gold. Take a look at the Caergwle Bowl, a gold votive container in the shape of a boat that’s more than 3000 years old.

Cardiff or Caerdydd as we say in Welsh, capital city of Wales. A truly modern and cosmopolitan city with an event calendar to rival any other European capital. In the Cardiff Bay area, you’ll find some stunning showpiece buildings; the Millennium Centre, a fantastic arts and cultural venue, the spanking new slate and glass Welsh Parliament Building and in the city centre, the Millennium Stadium with its ‘Thunderbirds are go’ sliding roof. But despite all that forward thinking, it’s a city that has not forgotten its past. The Civic Centre and National Museum are one of the finest in Europe and Cardiff Castle an unexpected city centre surprise.

Did you know? Cardiff was listed in the top 10 places to visit in the world by National Geographic Traveler magazine in 2011. www.visitcardiff.com

Civic Centre Start your day at Cardiff’s Civic Centre, its the finest in the British Isles, even if we do say so ourselves.

There are some seriously impressive buildings here. The centrepiece is the magnificently domed, snarling dragon topped City Hall; the dragon looks as if its guarding an egg, presumably Wales.

Nearby buildings which make up the Civic Centre include; Cardiff University, the Temple of Peace and the Welsh National War Memorial which is a beautiful and surprisingly quiet place to sit and relax right in the city centre.

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The main draw for most people is the Davies Collection. The largest collection of Impressionist and Post Impressionist paintings outside Paris. Cezanne sits next to Renoir and Rodin, opposite Monet, near Pissarro, over by Manet. Look out for Van Gogh’s stunning Rain at Anvers – angry slashes of rain run right across what is otherwise a beautiful landscape, it was painted just weeks before his suicide.

On a lighter note you will be pleased to know that that the museum is completely free! www.museumwales.ac.uk/en/cardiff

Bute Park Few cities have such a spacious green area in the heart of their city. Bute Park contains a wealth of historic interest dating back to Roman and medieval times. Cardiff Castle, the famous Animal Wall and Gorsedd Stones are just a sample of the park’s rich history. The park was landscaped in the late eighteenth century by Capability Brown and had alterations in the late nineteenth century by the 3rd Marquess of Bute. In 1947, the 3rd Marquess of Bute presented the park to the City.

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WALES CARDIFF ITINERARY 2012

Cardiff Castle The best place to get your bearings is at Cardiff Castle. You can’t miss it. Cardiff revolves around it. It’s like a big calm cube right in the city centre. Originally a Roman fort, it’s now a mixture of buildings from all eras. Ultimately, it was the 3rd Marquis of Bute, one of the richest men on the globe, who transformed Cardiff Castle into the mock gothic extravaganza we have now.

Take the guided tour. The interior is stunning. Then climb up to the top of the 12th century Norman keep (the little castle in the middle) for great views over the city.

Queen Street is Cardiff’s main shopping thoroughfare. One of the finest shopping centres outside London; this is where you’ll find all the high street chain stores. But Cardiff knows how to stand out from the UK city crowd. You’ll see how if you explore the Victorian Arcades.

There are six in total, stuffed full of the quirky and the unusual. Snug coffee shops sit next to esoteric club clothing boutiques and chic high end fashion stores.

There’s a shop that sells nothing but buttons next to one that sells nothing but violins.

And they’re next to a surf shop and a Welsh cheese shop. For a novel shopping jaunt, visit Jacob’s Antique Centre at the bottom of St Mary’s Street, perhaps a Victorian fireplace, 19th-century jewellery, antique brass or hardware, pocket watches, or 70s inspired home wear. Take your pick, there are antique shops here that sell almost everything.

Budding art collectors should make a bee line for the Martin Tinney Gallery, in Windsor Place; the atmosphere is friendly and informal. The gallery specialises in Welsh and Wales-based artists of the highest quality, past and present Learn about Cardiff's history at The Cardiff Story museum. www.cardiffstory.com in The Old Library, The Hayes. It's free entry and has art galleries, a learning suite, interactive exhibitions and other objects and stories that bring to life the history of the capital. More contemporary art can be found at Chapter Arts Centre, in Canton, just a few minutes from the city centre. A former school, the building now features a 18m light box which spans the whole frontage of the building - a living canvas to showcase Welsh artists' work. Equipped with cinemas, gallery space, restaurant and bar, Chapter is now one of Europe's leading arts centres. www.cardiffcastle.com Cardiff Castle Wales Index

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St John’s Parish Church This is the oldest church in the city centre and apart from parts of Cardiff Castle is said to be the oldest building in Cardiff still in constant use. The church is next to city centre's covered market, and is the oldest remaining mediaeval building in the city after Cardiff Castle, dating from the 12th century. In late Victorian times there were six daughter churches serving the densely populated central area.

St John's welcomes about a thousand city visitors a week and hosts many different celebrations for city institutions, charities, and individuals. Cardiff's mediaeval castle, the Welsh National stadium, the city's main shopping centre, national and civic institutions are based within the parish.

Millennium Stadium Tour The Millennium Stadium is quite simply magnificent. The stadium dominates the city and has become an iconic symbol of not only Cardiff, but of Wales as a whole.

The capacity is 72,500, and all seating has an excellent, unimpeded view of the action on the pitch. Its four masts hold up a massive sliding roof. The roof is so well balanced that to open or shut it costs no more than 5 Euro a time.

Each of the stadium's 15 bars are equipped with the so-called "joy machines" which can pour 12 pints in less than 20 seconds.

You can take a tour of the stadium which includes running down the player’s tunnel.

Imagine yourself being greeted by 75,000 people eagerly awaiting the pain and the glory of rugby at its best; they even play the crowd cheering and the Welsh National Anthem. Quite stirring is an understatement! www.millenniumstadium.com

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Cardiff Market

Cardiff Bay

It’s well worth making your way through the crowds of shoppers to find out what Cardiff Central Market has to offer. The market has been trading in one form or another since the 1700s. It has occupied the same site for over 100 years and although you'll longer find livestock tethered and penned outside its doors, some of the old features remain to this day. Within this food-lovers paradise you’ll be sure to find something delicious to take your fancy, whether you have a passion for Welsh Cakes or a penchant for seaweed.

This is the former docks area of the city and used to be the largest port in the world. It was once better known as Tiger Bay, immortalised by locally born singer Shirley Bassey.

Food Eating out in Cardiff is an experience in itself. The city offers an eclectic mix of cultural traditions and different types of cuisine from Hawaiian to Japanese to Welsh.

If you can’t decide what nationality to eat head towards the cafe quarter in Mill Lane, here you will find a host of trendy restaurants, bars and clubs. A firm Cardiff tradition is a red hot curry after a night at a club. City Road, just out of the city centre, is the place to go if you want something cheap and quick. The Kismet is a good one to try, but most of the restaurants here are open until the early hours of the morning and are very similar in terms of menu and price. Or for a real Cardiff tradition it has to be Caroline Street or Chippy Lane. Best stumbled upon after a long night on the tiles, sophisticated it’s not, but if you’re in need of a late night snack, it’s the place to be, and don’t worry anyone who is anyone ends up here sooner or later!

Later on Weekend nights are legendarily raucous with 35,000 students in the city, a great night is guaranteed!

Cardiff is packed full pubs and clubs of all hues, with chic cosmopolitan bars jostling alongside more traditional Victorian places and massive beer barns. For those who enjoy less boisterous surroundings, there are several wine bars where you can sit back and enjoy waiter service. Any visit should sample a pint of the city’s very own beer, Brains SA, brewed in the heart of the city. Legend has it that the SA stands for ‘skull attack’ you will have to make up your own mind about that one.

For the dance floor athletes amongst you go to the Welsh Club aka Clwb Ifor Bach and enter into musical delights from Hip Hop to Drum n Bass, to Indie.

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These days the Bay is one of the world’s largest regeneration projects. Central to the whole idea is the Cardiff Bay Barrage, which transformed the bay from mud flats to a massive freshwater lake. Around the lake, Cardiffian’s have realised that they love water! Marinas, apartments, water taxis, opera houses and even a parliament building all vie for a waterfront location.

The area around the Millennium Centre is known as Mermaid Quay. It’s a jumble of shops, bars and restaurants, and on a warm day, packed; a great place to people watch.

Try the Terra Nova (Terra Nova was the name of the ship on which Captain Scott set sail for Antarctica from Cardiff). Occupying one of the best spots in Cardiff Bay, this is a smart sophisticated bar, popular with both the locals and tourists. With its elegant glass fronts and stylish balconies this is the perfect place to spend a summers evening looking out over the bay. More 'dark and sophisticated' than 'cool and trendy', Terra Nova is both a bar and restaurant - and it excels at being both.

The food ranges from simple bar snacks to full meals and the choice is excellent.

Wales Millennium Centre The building is all glass and slate and looking very much like a Welsh armadillo. Its home to seven of Wales’ major cultural institutions, including the Welsh National Opera. The structure is dominated by a huge dome coated in copper oxide to give it a bronze colour. This is designed to look better with age. Inscribed above the front door are two poetic lines. The Welsh: “Creu Gwir fel gwydr o ffwrnais awen” which means “creating truth like glass from the furnace of creation” and the English “In these stones, horizons sing” the letters form the windows of the upper floors and are lit up at night. The materials come from all over Wales and are designed to reflect the different parts of the country.

Take in a free performance. These vary from day to day but can be anything from hip hop to poetry. The area around the Millennium Centre is known as Mermaid Quay. It’s a jumble of shops, bars and restaurants, and on a warm day, packed; a great place to people watch.

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The Senedd Next door to the Millennium Centre is the Welsh Senedd (Parliament) Building The building is impressive. Its wave-like roof juts out into the sky uncompromisingly; its glass walls afford you a clear view inside the building from 50m away but still reflect the waters of Cardiff Bay which practically lap onto its steps. It manages to be both gutsy and ethereal - and has a certain magic that you can only feel by visiting it. So that’s what you should do! Take the tour. Poke around a bit, look for those elusive politicians. www.assemblywales.org

White Water Rafting in the city!

Cardiff International White Water (CIWW) is situated at International Sports Village in Cardiff Bay it opened in 2010 and is unique in the UK. Conveniently positioned on the Bay Edge walkway, you will be able to access the site and view action on the water before taking the plunge into the rapids. For a thrilling water sports adventure we offer a unique environment of on-demand white water, plus access to a diverse river system for flat water paddlers only a stones throw away from the city with all it has to offer. www.ciww.com

Dr Who The Bay is also home for the film locations for Doctor Who and Torchwood. Combine a visit to the brand new Doctor Who Up-close exhibition in Cardiff Bay with a tour of the locations. Packed with amazing special effects and exclusive filming with Matt Smith this multi-sensory experience is fun for the family and fans alike. You'll be able to join the Doctor on an interactive journey that takes you on a spectacular adventure through time and space. Visitors can see props, costumes and monsters from the show, including Cybermen and Daleks. A Doctor Who locations map is also available from the exhibition. The series, and its two spin-off shows, Torchwood and the Adventures of Sarah Jane, are filmed on location in Cardiff, and make use of locations such as the Millennium Stadium, Queen's Arcade Shopping Centre and Wales Millennium Centre. www.doctorwhoexperience.com

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WALES CARDIFF ITINERARY 2012

Techniquest

Cardiff Bay Barrage Coast Path

If you’ve got kids, this is where to leave them for a few hours, if you haven’t; just pretend, it’s great for adults too. Techniquest is one of the UK’s largest science centres, its packed full of fun exhibits, experiments and hands on quirky stuff like firing rockets to bubble racing.

The route provides a safe pedestrian and cycle route with direct access to and from the Inner Harbour, linking with the existing footway, cycle way and transport network through to the city and beyond. The route is accessible via a bridge crossing Roath Basin lock next to the Norwegian Church, and takes you past the Environment building, the barrage, which includes locks and bridges, sluice gates, and a fish pass and Cardiff Harbour Building.

The Norwegian Church Arts Centre Formerly a Church for Norwegian Sailors, this is a landmark building could be straight out of Bergen. The church was where the Cardiff born children’s author Roald Dahl was christened, it’s placed right on the Cardiff Bay waterfront and is now a renowned cultural venue. The unique venue hosts a variety of events, from live music to workshops, functions and classes. The Dahl Gallery also displays a range of art and photography exhibitions. An events calendar is available on the website. The stylish café bar offers food all day, with the outside terrace overlooking the tranquil waters of the Bay.

Cardiff Bay Barrage Take a boat over to the Barrage Boats they depart from Mermaid Quay outside the Terra Nova. The Barrage itself is 1.1km long and extends from Cardiff docks in the north to Penarth in the south. This was a huge civil engineering construction project and created a freshwater lake with over 13km of waterfront around which everyone wants to live. The barrage is quite a busy place with the yachts coming in and out of the locks. Go and see the giant fish passes, you may see some jumping salmon or trout. The landscaped embankment is a great place for a picnic with excellent views out over the sea and the city. www.cardiffharbour.com

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The landscaped embankment is a public open space where visitors can walk and picnic with excellent views out over the sea and the bay. A children's play area and 'Age of Coal' exhibition mean there is something for everyone. Barrage Circles is by Felice Varini and uses the Barrage structures and paint to create a collage that results in circles. These circles are not immediately evident and can only be viewed from one location. The art highlights the many parts that are needed to make up the operational structure of the Barrage.

Evening If you’re still recovering from last night in the city centre head to Cardiff Bay to chill with the seagulls and watch the sun set on the water. There’s a huge variety of restaurants and bars from Tapas to Sushi, lager to cocktails. People come here to mingle with Cardiff’s media types, prospective beaus or just kick back by the quay with wine in hand. Or try Jolyons a small boutique hotel and cosy bar which is chilled out beyond belief – lounge on a big leather sofa next to the fire and soak up the art on the walls, scattered books and random furniture.

Food The trendiest place to eat at the moment is Cardiff Bay. For the ultimate in luxury dining, book into the Tides Grill at the 5-star St David's Hotel, on the edge of the Bay, and prepare to spend several hours enjoying a leisurely dinner.

If you fancy some contemporary British food try Woods Brasserie. Set in the old pilotage building, Woods has a stylish buzz about it. The menu includes home-made breads, oysters, pan-fried calf's liver and duck, with desserts ranging from ultra-rich chocolate creations to lighter polenta cake. It offers a great range of wines, spirits, champagnes and liqueurs.

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Titanic Belfast Belfast Index

Engand

Channel Islands

Scotland

Wales

Northern Ireland

NORTHERN IRELAND TITANIC: BUILT IN BELFAST - 3-DAY ITINERARY For Belfast, 2012 is the year the legend comes home. On April 2nd 1912, RMS Titanic sailed out of Belfast Lough to embark on her maiden voyage. The story of the most magnificent ship of her age and her tragic end has captured the hearts and imaginations of people all over the world. Belfast, the city where Titanic was designed, built and launched will celebrate and commemorate the centenary of Titanic’s maiden voyage with the opening of the world’s largest Titanic visitor experience, Titanic Belfast. The Titanic Belfast Festival 2012 (31 March – 22 April 2012) featured up to 120 different events, festivals, concerts and exhibitions at venues throughout the city. This is the time to visit this vibrant capital city which the National Geographic recently named as one of the top 12 places to visit in 2012! There is a vast range of Titanic experiences to be found in Belfast all year round - what are you waiting for?

Day One Morning Depart from either London Heathrow / Gatwick / Stansted / Luton for a quick one hour flight to Belfast, landing in either George Best Belfast City Airport (10 mins in taxi to City Centre) or to Belfast International Airport (approx. 25 mins to City Centre). www.belfastcityairport.com www.belfastairport.com You have now arrived in Titanic Town, the birthplace of Titanic where the largest man-made moving object of its time was created and built by the ordinary, gifted shipyard workers of Belfast. April 2012 marked the centenary of Titanic’s maiden voyage and fateful end, where over 1500 people lost their lives. Uncover the fascinating story of Titanic right here in Belfast where she was built.

Let’s get your Titanic experience off on the right foot with a Titanic Walking Tour. www.titanicwalk.com Duration: 2 hrs 15 mins

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Titanic Drawing Offices Belfast

Your guide, Colin Cobb, is a self-confessed Titanorak, obsessed with Titanic ever since doing a school project on the ship many years ago. Take a journey into the past and walk in the footsteps of Titanic’s creators with a guided tour of Queen’s Island where Titanic was designed, built and launched. Also access the hugely evocative Titanic Drawing Offices, the recently refurbished Titanic Slipways and Titanic’s Dock & Pumphouse.

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NORTHERN IRELAND TITANIC: BUILT IN BELFAST - 3-DAY ITINERARY Afternoon

Day Two

Titanic Belfast www.titanicbelfast.com

Morning

Duration: 1 – 3hrs This £97m visitor attraction opened in March 2012 and is the world’s largest Titanic themed attraction! This is Belfast’s must see visitor attraction and it certainly is a Titanic experience! This impressive six-floor building features nine interpretive and interactive galleries that explore the sights, sounds, smells and stories of Titanic, as well as the City and people which made her. The building, twice the size of Belfast City Hall, replicates four 27.5m high hulls, with the highest point of the building at 38m from the plaza level.

The iconic visitor attraction is located right in the heart of Titanic Quarter on the banks of the River Lagan, from where Titanic set sail on her fateful voyage 100 years ago. Such is the worldwide interest in Titanic Belfast that over 40,000 tickets were sold in one month! This experience is not to be missed!

Ahoy maties! Time to test your sea legs!

This morning, we are stepping onboard the world’s only Titanic Boat Tour with the Lagan Boat Company. www.laganboatcompany.com Duration: 1 hr 15mins This Titanic Boat Tour takes you on a unique trip to see the birth place of the famous liner, and takes in key sites such as the Harland and Wolff Shipyard and key Titanic sights. What better way to experience the Titanic story than from the River Lagan from where Titanic sailed off to her fateful destiny. Make sure to bring your camera as there will be plenty of photo opportunities as you cruise past iconic Titanic landmarks.

Afternoon

Evening

The Ulster Museum www.nmni.com

The MAC, Cathedral Quarter Belfast www.themaclive.com

Duration: 1 - 3hrs

Duration: 1 – 3hrs

Pass the afternoon in the chic University Quarter, named after Queen’s University, the hub of this vibrant area of the city. Highlights of this area include the University, Botanic Gardens and the Ulster Museum.

The Metropolitan Arts Centre, opening April 2012 in the Cathedral Quarter, is one of Belfast’s newest arts venues and includes three major visual art galleries, two theatres, a dance studio and of course a cool café and bar! The speciallycommissioned Titanic (Scenes from a British Wreck Commissioner’s Inquiry 1912) by local playwright Owen McCafferty is a verbatim drama based on the testimonies of witnesses at the official British Government Inquiry to the loss of RMS Titanic.

Pass the evening here exploring Belfast’s vibrant culture scene, catching a play or performance! After the MAC, why not get the lowdown on the Belfast’s unmissable nightlife scene? Have a drink with the locals at the Duke of York, where Snow Patrol played their first gig and enjoy the live music scene around the Cathedral Quarter.

Index

The newly renovated Ulster Museum opened in 2010 and is the proud holder of numerous design awards. In this popular visitor attraction, come face to face with dinosaurs, meet an Egyptian Mummy and see modern masterpieces as you explore the history, art and science galleries. As Northern Ireland’s treasure house of the past and present, the museum is home to a rich collection of art, history and natural sciences and free to all visitors. From Ireland to the South Pacific, ancient relics to hands on activities, the museum offers something for everyone from the simply curious to the enthusiast. Then why not enjoy a bite to eat at the ground floor restaurant with its terrace leading out into the beautiful Botanic Gardens.

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NORTHERN IRELAND TITANIC: BUILT IN BELFAST - 3-DAY ITINERARY Evening The Lyric Theatre: www.lyrictheatre.co.uk The Grand Opera House, Belfast: www.goh.co.uk Belfast is a cultural hive of activity and there is always something going on. For your second night in Belfast, spend the evening catching a performance at one of Belfast’s many arts venues & theatres! Whether you’re a drama queen or musical buff, The Lyric and The Grand Opera House will have something to tickle your fancy! Both venues offer bar & restaurant facilities and make sure to check out the main pretheatre dining offers that are available throughout the city.

If visiting during the month of August, be sure to catch The Titanic Boys by Martin Lynch at The Grand Opera House. In 1912, Thomas Andrews hand-picked four teenage apprentices and five of his best tradesmen, which formed The Harland and Wolff Guarantee Group. This compelling tale is the story of their incredible journey on board the world’s most famous ship.

Continuing on this Titanic theme, head to Great Victoria Street where you can enjoy a drink in two very different hostelries! The first is The Crown, one of Northern Ireland’s best known pubs. Its ornate Victorian exterior and delightful interior décor make it one of the National Trust’s greatest treasures. Then head next door to Robinsons, where you can see a range of unique Titanic memorabilia and then enjoy live traditional music in Fibber Magees.

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NORTHERN IRELAND TITANIC: BUILT IN BELFAST - 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Three

Evening

Morning

Rayanne House – Titanic Menu www.rayannehouse.com

Ulster Folk and Transport Museum – TITANICa exhibition www.nmni.com

Duration – 2 - 3 hrs

Duration – 1 - 2 hrs Today, we are heading out of the city to the scenic surroundings of the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum at Cultra, approximately 20 mins drive from Belfast City Centre.

Think you’re a fully-fledged Titanorak by now? Well TITANICa is a fascinating exhibition where you can discover more than 500 original artefacts including RMS Titanic objects recovered from the icy sea bed. See one of the original plans of the ships with last minute design changes as well as a porthole and soup tureen. You can also see the trains and trams shipyard workers would have travelled on during their daily commute to the H&W shipyards.

Afternoon Ulster Folk and Transport Museum – the People’s story www.nmni.com Duration – 1 - 2 hrs One location but two experiences! Cross over to the Ulster Folk museum and explore a living history experience in the outdoor Folk Museum. Walk the historic streets and meet the people who built the ship and lived in her time. Chat to the shipyard riveter in his house or dress up in costumes of the time for a family photo with a difference.

Then head to the Picture House to enjoy Titanic related films.

Now for a unique Titanic: Built in Belfast experience! Dating back to 1886, the awardwinning Rayanne House is the perfect setting for a unique Titanic themed dining experience. Not only does the grand residence's decor reflect that of the ship's opulence, but a recently unearthed print by esteemed artist JW Carey clearly shows Titanic sailing down Belfast Lough with Rayanne House in the background. The Smith Family watched The Titanic from the dining room as she sailed down the Lough on her maiden voyage on April 10 1912.

The Titanic Menu is a recreation of the last menu served in the first class restaurant on board the iconic Ship. The Titanic was the most famous ship ever and was proudly designed and built in Belfast between 1909 and 1912. Head chef, Conor, has meticulously re-created the menu and it is as sumptuous as you'd expect, with nine lavish courses boasting everything from champagne-laced asparagus and watercress salad to filet mignon topped with foie gras and truffle.

Conor has welcomed people from all around the world to experience this amazing dining experience and recently took over Hotel Russell in London, where the Titanic Menu was served to over 200 guests.

Ulster Museum Belfast Index

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NORTHERN IRELAND BELFAST - 3-DAY ITINERARY Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland and one of the UK and Ireland’s most vibrant cities! Belfast is an emerging city, now ready to take its place as a must-see destination. Belfast is embarking on a bright new future – it recently hosted the MTV European Music Awards in November 2011 and in 2012, it firmly embraces its title as Titanic Town, the birthplace of Titanic. Also embrace the vibrant city that National Geographic recently listed in the world’s top 20 must see destinations in 2012!

Day One Morning Depart from London Heathrow / Gatwick / Stansted / Luton for a quick 1 hour flight to Belfast, landing in either George Best Belfast City Airport (10 mins in taxi to City Centre) or to Belfast International Airport (approx. 25 mins to City Centre).

You have now arrived in Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland and one of the UK and Ireland’s most vibrant cities! Belfast is an emerging city, now ready to take its place as a must-see destination. Belfast is embarking on a bright new future – it recently hosted the MTV European Music Awards in November 2011 and in 2012, it firmly embraces its title as Titanic Town, the birthplace of Titanic. The largest man-made moving object of its time was created and built by the shipyard workers of Belfast.

April 2012 marks the centenary of Titanic’s maiden voyage and fateful end, where over 1500 people lost their lives. Uncover the fascinating story of Titanic right here in Belfast where she was built. Also embrace the vibrant city that the National Geographic recently listed in the world’s top 20 must see destinations in 2012!

Bus Tour around Belfast Get to grips with this very compact city on an open-top bus tour. There are several operators who will take you through the city with the benefit of an onboard guide.

Check out the range of available tours at www.discovernorthernireland.com Titanic Dry Dock Belfast 232

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NORTHERN IRELAND BELFAST - 3-DAY ITINERARY Afternoon Belfast walking tour Now you’ve got your bearings, so head to the city centre of Belfast and discover the real heart of the city. Enjoy lunch in one of Belfast’s many cafes and restaurants such as Mourne Sea Food on Bank Street where you can enjoy a pot of steaming mussels caught locally in Dundrum Bay , all washed down with a pint of the locally brewed Oyster Stout! You can even roll your sleeves up and join in the Belfast Cookery School’s range of exciting classes – Masterchef watch out!

If you’re visiting from April 2012, the new Titanic Memorial Garden will be opened where you can visit the only memorial in the world to name all those were lost on RMS Titanic. Public tours of City Hall are available Mon – Fri 11am, 2pm and 3pm , Sat 2pm & 3pm , duration 45 mins.

Hopefully at this stage you are ready for some action! What better way to explore the city than on a bike, free to discover areas where the cars just can’t get at. www.belfastcitybiketours.com duration: 2 hours

To help you along, why not download the official gotoBelfast app, which is totally free and gives you access to a wealth of information on what to do in the city.

In this fun, eco-friendly tour of Belfast, you will take in over 20 points of interest all on board cool, comfy and easy to pedal bikes!

Let’s start off the afternoon exploring some of Belfast’s most famous landmarks.

Start off at Belfast’s iconic City Hall, at the top of Royal Avenue. It was officially reopened on 12th October 2009 following its £11m, two-year refurbishment programme. Completed in 1906, it is a magnificent Edwardian 'wedding cake' built to reflect Belfast's city status, granted by Queen Victoria in 1888. The dome is 53m high.

Evening

Today, the grounds of City Hall are a favourite of city centre workers, students and tourists for taking a break from the bustling city. Many people can be found relaxing in the grounds with friends or simply a sandwich and a favourite book. The grounds are also used for many events from continental markets to open air concerts and currently is home to Northern Ireland’s Big Screen showing updates from the London 2012 Games.

The City Hall's connections with Titanic are many. In fact the Lord Mayor at the time of its opening, Sir Daniel Dixon, credited William Pirrie, the man who created Titanic, as having ‘the big ideas’ for City Hall. Pirrie, Lord Mayor in 1896/7, is said to have referred to City Hall as 'the stone Titanic'.

In its grounds, the Titanic Memorial, sculpted by Thomas Brock, pays tribute to 22 men who lost their lives on the ship. Another statue by Brock depicts Sir Edward Harland, ship’s plan in hand, who was Lord Mayor in 1885/6. Thanks to Pirrie’s influence, the Lord Mayor’s Suite is also known as ‘the Titanic Rooms’, as craftsmen who worked on them went on to work on the famous liner. Portraits of Lord and Lady Pirrie hang in the Reception Room.

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Historical Pub Tours www.belfastpubtours.com To kick off your evening, why not get to grips with Belfast’s nightlife with a historical pub tour. No visit to Belfast would be complete without a trip around its famous and historic pubs. The hospitality of Belfast and its people is legendary and there’s no better way to enjoy the craic and banter with the locals than over a few drinks. Tours start from the Crown Dining Rooms, above the Crown Bar on Great Victoria Street.

Belfast is a true culinary delight with everything from cool cafes, to gastro pubs, high end dining and more.

For local seafood, head to Mourne Seafood bar and sample an amazing range of fish and seafood- all caught off our coastline.

For French cuisine with a local twist, try James Street South where the head chef and owner, Niall McKenna, was a recent winner of the Great British Menu with his innovative dessert of Poached Rhubarb and Strawberry jelly with Lavender Ice Cream & Yellow man. Or for a more relaxed eatery, pop next door to the Bar & Grill at James Street South where you’ll find an exciting seasonal and local menu to suit all palates.

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Day Two Morning Titanic Walking Tour As you may know, Belfast is Titanic Town, the birthplace of one of the world’s most famous ships where the largest man-made moving object of its time was created and built by the ordinary, gifted shipyard workers of Belfast. April 2012 marks the centenary of Titanic’s maiden voyage and fateful end, where over 1500 people lost their lives. Uncover the fascinating story of Titanic right here in Belfast where she was built.

Let’s get your Titanic experience off on the right foot with a Titanic Walking Tour. www.titanicwalk.com Duration: 2 hrs 15 mins Your guide, Colin Cobb, is a self-confessed Titanorak, obsessed with Titanic ever since doing a school project on the ship many years ago. Take a journey into the past and walk in the footsteps of Titanic’s creators with a guided tour of Queen’s Island where Titanic was designed, built and launched. Also access the hugely evocative Titanic Drawing Offices, the recently refurbished Titanic Slipways and Titanic’s Dock & Pumphouse.

Afternoon Titanic Belfast www.titanicbelfast.com Duration: 1 – 3hrs This £97m visitor attraction opened in March 2012 and is the world’s largest Titanic themed attraction! This is Belfast’s must see visitor attraction and it certainly is a Titanic experience! This impressive six-floor building features nine interpretive and interactive galleries that explore the sights, sounds, smells and stories of Titanic, as well as the City and people which made her. The building, twice the size of Belfast City Hall, replicates four 27.5m high hulls, with the highest point of the building at 38m from the plaza level. The iconic visitor attraction is located right in the heart of Titanic Quarter on the banks of the River Lagan, from where Titanic set sail on her fateful voyage 100 years ago. Such is the worldwide interest in Titanic Belfast that over 40,000 tickets were sold in one month! This experience is not to be missed!

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NORTHERN IRELAND BELFAST - 3-DAY ITINERARY Evening

Afternoon

Belfast Music Tours Gotobelfast.com

The Belfast Barge www.laganlegacy.com

Take a bus journey through the heart of this rock and roll city. Sit back, relax and enjoy tunes and tales from Them and Van Morrison, by way of awesome guitar players, traditional and folk, to punk rock and Hollywood soundtracks. Finish up at the Belfast Music Exhibition at the Oh Yeah Centre in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Cathedral Quarter. Then pop round the corner to the Duke of York bar where Snow Patrol played their first gig!

The Belfast Barge bears a precious cargo – the extraordinary story of Belfast’s epic maritime and industrial past, told in a spectacular exhibition – “the Greatest Story never told.”

Day Three Morning St George’s Market www.belfastcity.gov.uk/stgeorgesmarket Start the day off with breakfast at St George’s Market, one of Belfast’s oldest attractions. It was built between 1890 and 1896 and is one of the best markets in the UK and Ireland. It has been voted for numerous local and national titles and awards for its fresh, local produce and great atmosphere. It holds a weekly Friday Variety Market as well as the City Food and Garden Market on Saturdays and the Craft market on Sundays. It also hosts a range of events throughout the year. It is bright and busy and excellent place to film to get the local flavour of Belfast. It sells everything from the typical Belfast Bap with bacon and sausage, to Spanish tapas and of course the obligatory range of cupcakes!

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Evening The MAC, Cathedral Quarter Belfast www.themaclive.com The Metropolitan Arts Centre in the Cathedral Quarter is one of Belfast’s newest arts venues. It opened in April 2012 and includes three major visual art galleries, two theatres, a dance studio and of course a cool café and bar!

The specially-commissioned Titanic (Scenes from a British Wreck Commissioner’s Inquiry 1912) by local playwright Owen McCafferty is a verbatim drama based on the testimonies of witnesses at the official British Government Inquiry to the loss of RMS Titanic.

Pass the evening here exploring Belfast’s vibrant culture scene, catching a play or performance! After the MAC, why not get the lowdown on the Belfast’s unmissable nightlife scene- take a trip to quirky bars like The Spaniard or Muriel’s or if a cocktail is more your thing, join the glamorous set at The Merchant Hotel Belfast (5*) recently voted UK’s Best Hotel!

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NORTHERN IRELAND FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF GIANTS - 3-DAY ITINERARY Northern Ireland's Causeway Coast is an area of unsurpassed beauty, a unique fusion of tangible heritage and magnificent scenery. An area whose breathtaking and rugged coastline merges into the romantic landscape of its deep silent glens and lush forest parks.

The wonders don't stop there as the region has been made famous by the Causeway Coastal Route which is seen as 'one of the world's great road journeys' and one of the most outstanding scenic car touring drives in the world featuring the Giant's Causeway. It's a voyage not to be rushed and provides a journey of exploration, where imagination meets reality and where every village and town, castle and rocky shore is waiting to be discovered.

The highlight is the magnificent Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The area has received many accolades in recent years – the Lonely Planet Guide recognised the magnificent vistas along the breath-taking Antrim coastline, whilst The Guardian ranked the Causeway Coastal Route as the second most spectacular road trip in the world. Jacob’s Creek ranked the scenic Antrim coastline as the fifth most beautiful spot in the world no less, just behind icons like the Sydney Opera House and Victoria Falls. Not to miss out on the action, Michael Palin rated the train journey from the capital Belfast to second city Derry-Londonderry which at certain points travels along the Causeway Coast as one of the most spectacular train journeys in the world. High praise indeed! So what are you waiting for? Explore the Causeway Coast and walk in the footsteps of Giants!

Find out more at www.discovernorthernireland.com

Day One Morning Depart from London Heathrow / Gatwick / Stansted / Luton for a quick 1 hour flight to Belfast, landing in Belfast International Airport (approx. 1 hr drive to the Causeway Coast) Belfast – Carrickfergus Carrickfergus Castle www.ni-environment.gov.uk Start your Causeway Coast adventure in Belfast, and pick up the world famous route on the M2 / M5 motorway. Heading out of the city, with Belfast Lough on your side, your first stop will be the pretty seaside town of Carrickfergus.

Dominating the town’s skyline is Ireland’s best preserved Norman Castle.

Established by John de Courcy, the castle has seen action right up to the second world war. Guided tours are available.

Carrickfergus – Coast Road – Glenarm Glenarm Walled Garden www.glenarmcastle.com Heading along the coast, you will come to the picturesque village of Glenarm.

Stretch the legs here with a walk to Glenarm Castle’s Historic Walled Garden.

Glenarm Castle is one of Northern Ireland’s oldest estates and home to the McDonnell family, Earls of Antrim, since the early 17th Century. After your walk, why not enjoy traditional tea in the charming tea rooms!

Afternoon The Glens Glenariff Forest Park www.nidirect.gov.uk/glenariff-forest-park You are now right in the heart of the nine glens of Antrim as you head to your second glen of the day – Glenariff. Spectacular glen walks and waterfalls await you at Glenariff Forest Park whose scenic paths and trails lead through tranquil woods and up to magnificent mountain viewpoints. Don’t forget the camera!

Continue on the Causeway Coastal Route through the scenic coastal villages of Cushendall, Cushendun and Ballycastle before stopping for the night in Ballintoy.

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NORTHERN IRELAND FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF GIANTS - 3-DAY ITINERARY Evening

Day Three

All that fresh air will ensure you sleep soundly tonight. Overnight in Ballintoy and enjoy the craic of the local pub!

Morning

Day Two Morning Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge www.nationaltrust.org.uk If you’re not wide awake this morning, don’t worry! As after a stroll across Carrick-aRede rope bridge, you most certainly will be! Enjoy the challenge of crossing the rope bridge which crosses a 24m deep and 18m wide chasm over the stormy Atlantic Ocean to Sheep Island. Be amazed at the stunning views over the sea to the Scottish Coast. Once back on terra firma, enjoy coastal walks along the limestone headlands.

Afternoon Giant’s Causeway and Visitor Centre www.nationaltrust.org.uk/giantscauseway Now for the highlight of the Causeway Coastal Route – the magnificent Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s only World Heritage Site. This site displays unusual six sided basalt columns and a wealth of local and natural history. It was said to be created by local legendary Giant, Finn McCool. Work of a Giant or Mother Nature – we will let you decide!

2012 also sees the opening of the Giant’s Causeway brand new visitor centre, packed with interpretative information, ensuring you get the most of your visit here. If visiting from August until October of 2012, you can enjoy a mesmeric new art installation planned to celebrate this momentous year for this area. FLAGS by German artist Hans Peter Kuhn involves hundreds of coloured flags randomly placed in the landscape of the coastline. These flags move freely, powered by the natural elements creating a unique and hypnotic installation, adding to the visitor experience.

Old Bushmills Distillery www.bushmills.com Learn the secrets of the special water from St Columb’s Rill in Ireland’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery. Pass by the shining copper stills and age old oak casks before sampling the finest Irish Malt Whiskey. Guided tours available. Make sure there is a designated driver on hand so you can fully enjoy the Bushmills experience.

Afternoon Surf’s Up at Portrush! www.alivesurfschool.com You have spent the last few days looking at the Atlantic Ocean –now it’s time to get in it with a surfing lesson at Portrush! So don your wetsuit, grab your board and head into the bracing Atlantic waves, suitably helped by your enthusiastic instructors, all former members of the Irish Surf Team. They offer lessons 365 days a year! And they’ll even recommend the hot spots in town for eating out and enjoying the night life after your lesson!

If surfing’s not your spot, then why not enjoy a sea safari exploring the coastline from the Atlantic Ocean. There’s no better way to discover the delights of the North Coast of Ireland, one of the more beautiful coastlines in the world!

Evening Spend the evening in Portrush at local restaurants 55 Degrees North Portrush or the Anchor in Portstewart or chose from a wealth of others to suit your taste.

Evening Rejoin the Causeway Coastal Route and your next stop for the night is the pretty town of Bushmills. Stay in the Bushmills Inn and sample local produce as well as the local tipple- Bushmills whiskey of course!

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NORTHERN IRELAND A TASTE OF BELFAST - 3-DAY ITINERARY Northern Ireland is a great destination for lovers of good food and drink! Good food is an intrinsic part of life here – an unspoilt environment and mild climate produce superb, high quality food. Our seafood, game, beef, lamb, dairy produce, fruit and vegetables are among the best in the world and the region is gaining respect for the reputation of its local producers. Maybe you already know that Northern Ireland’s largest lake, Lough Neagh is Europe’s greatest source of eels and that the world-famous Bushmills Whiskey has been produced in the Co Antrim village of Bushmills for 400 years. Perhaps you have heard of Finnebrogue Venison, the best venison meat in the world, Dundrum Oysters and the humble Comber potato, grown in the arable, farmland in County Down. You can also encounter a living baking tradition and enjoy afternoon tea in numerous home bakeries, cafés and teashops.

With such fresh produce on hand, it’s no wonder the Northern Irish food scene is vibrant, exciting and surprising. From sea-front restaurants along the Causeway Coastal Route to seafood bars at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, contemporary city restaurants in Belfast and the City of Derry to cookery courses in the heart of Fermanagh Lakelands and hearty pub grub in beautiful rural spots. www.discovernorthernireland.com/food So go on, give your tastebuds a thoroughly good time and head to Northern Ireland!

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NORTHERN IRELAND A TASTE OF BELFAST - 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day One

Afternoon

Morning

Hilden Brewery www.hildenbrewery.co.uk Telephone: 028 9266 0800

Depart from London Heathrow / Gatwick / Stansted / Luton for a quick 1 hour flight to Belfast, landing in either George Best Belfast City Airport (10 mins in taxi to City Centre) or to Belfast International Airport (approx. 25 mins to City Centre).

You have now arrived in Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland and one of the UK and Ireland’s most vibrant cities! Belfast is an emerging city, now ready to take its place as a must-see destination. Belfast is embarking on a bright new future – it recently hosted the MTV European Music Awards in November 2011 and in 2012, it firmly embraces its title as Titanic Town, the birthplace of Titanic. Also embrace the vibrant city that the National Geographic recently listed in the world’s top 20 must see destinations in 2012 through a special Food and Drink journey!

Start off your morning with a brunch in St George’s Market.

Duration: 3 hrs Less than half an hour out of Belfast is Hilden Brewery located on the Hilden Estate, one of Northern Ireland’s only micro breweries. Have lunch in the Tap Room restaurant, and then get a tour of the brewery with the Scullion family, the current owners of the estate, who will take you through the amazing history of the Estate and its previous residents. You will also be taken through the brewing process and see where artisan beers such as Titanic Quarter Beer & Cathedral Quarter Beer are brewed!

Evening

www.belfastcity.gov.uk/stgeorgesmarket/

Rayanne House, Holywood www.rayannehouse.com Telephone: 02890 425859

Opening Times: Friday 6am – 2pm , Saturday 9am – 3pm, Sunday 10am – 4pm

Duration: 3 hrs

St George’s Market is one of Belfast’s oldest attractions. It was built between 1890 and 1896 and is one of the best markets in the UK and Ireland. It has been voted for numerous local and national titles and awards for its fresh, local produce and great atmosphere. It holds a weekly Friday Variety Market as well as the City Food and Garden Market on Saturdays and the Arts and Craft market on Sunday. It is packed full of local traders selling their wares – from fresh fish caught off our coasts, local breads, artisan jams and chutneys and of course the essential cupcakes! You can also experience international food as well such as tapas from Spain, curries from India and French Crepes -all made fresh for you in the heart of Belfast!

Now for a unique Titanic: Built in Belfast experience! Dating back to 1886, the awardwinning Rayanne House is the perfect setting for a unique Titanic themed dining experience. Not only does the grand residence's decor reflect that of the ship's opulence, but a recently unearthed print by esteemed artist JW Carey clearly shows Titanic sailing down Belfast Lough with Rayanne House in the background. The Smith Family watched The Titanic from the dining room as she sailed down the Lough on her maiden voyage on April 10 1912.

Duration: 2 hours

Or you can lunch at St George’s Market Bar and Grill, open Tuesday – Saturday for lunch, serving a traditional menu using the freshest of local produce from individually selected suppliers.

The Titanic Menu is a recreation of the last menu served in the first class restaurant on board the iconic Ship. The Titanic was the most famous ship ever and was proudly designed and built in Belfast between 1909 and 1912. Head chef, Conor, has meticulously re-created the menu and it is as sumptuous as you'd expect, with nine lavish courses boasting everything from champagne-laced asparagus and watercress salad to filet mignon topped with foie gras and truffle.

Conor has welcomed people from all around the world to experience this amazing dining experience and recently took over Hotel Russell in London, where the Titanic Menu was served to over 200 guests.

Suggested overnight accommodation: Rayanne House (B&B)

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NORTHERN IRELAND A TASTE OF BELFAST - 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two Morning Belfast Cookery School www.belfastcookeryschool.com Telephone: 02890 234722 Brush up on your culinary skills with a morning at Belfast Cookery School!

Duration: 3 hours Welcome to Belfast Cookery School - the city's first purpose built cookery school. We offer a range of courses specifically designed to appeal to all ages and level of ability so if you're donning an apron for the first time, don't worry, you're in good hands. The School has 16 fully equipped, individual cooking stations and it's up to you if you want to cook as teams, pairs or individuals. Each class is themed so can you can specialize in various food areas – seafood, one pot wonders, Italian, Thai or even Healthy Eating!

Cooking doesn’t get tougher than this!

Afternoon Titanic Belfast www.titanicbelfast.com Duration: 1 – 3hrs This £97m visitor attraction opened in March 2012 and is the world’s largest Titanic exhibition! This is Belfast’s must see destination and it’s a Titanic experience! This impressive six-floor building features nine interpretive and interactive galleries that explore the sights, sounds, smells and stories of Titanic, as well as the City and people which made her. The building, twice the size of Belfast City Hall, replicates four 27.5m high hulls, with the highest point of the building at 38m from the plaza level. This is not to be missed!

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NORTHERN IRELAND A TASTE OF BELFAST - 3-DAY ITINERARY Evening

Afternoon

James St South www.jamesstreetsouth.com Telephone: 02890 434310

The Merchant Hotel www.themerchanthotel.com

Spend the evening at one of Belfast’s top restaurants.

Opened by Niall and Joanne McKenna, the restaurant marries the best of Northern Irish produce with classical French cooking creating menus which change seasonally.

Added to this a wine list of over 100 bins served by the glass, carafe and bottle & the service is attentive and professional. The team of Geoff Kemps, Stephen Toman, William King and David Fogg continually strive to provide food, wine and service that exceed expectations and represent excellent value for money.

Over the years James Street South has won many awards and the Chef/Proprietor Niall McKenna featured in BBC2 Great British Menu program and won a place at a banquet with his dessert of Rhubarb and Strawberry with Lavender Ice Cream. Since then the restaurant has received national recognition for its food and service.

Day Three Morning Local Producers Tour www.thelisburnroad.com Spend the morning browsing the vibrant Lisburn Road area of Belfast, packed full of local independents, full of knowledge and great produce!

• Lisburn Road Belfast • Arcadia Delicatessen • Clydesdale & Morrow • Murphy’s

Experience Afternoon Tea with a difference at the 5-star Merchant Hotel, right in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter in Belfast. The hotel was recently awarded Best UK Hotel at the prestigious International Hotel Awards. The hotel is a harmonious blend of Victorian Splendour and art deco inspired sleek modernity. Opt for traditional afternoon tea or treat yourself to a champagne tea – perfect for special occasions!

If visiting during the month of April 2012, the hotel will be transformed into the RMS Merchant, marking the centenary of Titanic’s maiden voyage and tragic end. Raise a glass to Titanic in our award winning cocktail bar and enjoy a tipple from our specially themed cocktail list which includes Punch Romaine - This drink was the sixth course of the Titanic's final dinner, and was served immediately after the main course. The Bar staff will also be sporting uniforms similar to those worn by Titanic’s food service staff.

In The Great Room Restaurant, treat yourself to a nautically themed afternoon tea or why not make a night of it with the Captain’s Table menu – a specially created tasting menu inspired by the opulence of food in 1st Class on Titanic herself.

Evening To end your Food and Drink fest in Belfast, no trip to Belfast would be complete without sampling the local night life and pub culture or pass the evening exploring Belfast’s vibrant culture scene, catching a play or performance at our many theatres and arts spaces.

Grand Opera House: www.goh.co.uk Lyric Theatre: www.lyrictheatre.co.uk The MAC: www.themaclive.com Belfast Waterfront: www.waterfront.co.uk Sip a pint of the locally brewed dry stout, Belfast Black, in the atmospheric John Hewitt. No visit to Belfast would be complete without discovering the Crown Bar, one of the best known landmarks in the city. This splendid gin palace, built in 1826, boasts an ornate Victorian exterior and delightful interior, complete with cosy snugs and gas lamps, making it one of the National Trust’s greatest treasures.

Then why not get the lowdown on Belfast’s unmissable music scene? Have a drink with the locals at the Duke of York in Cathedral Quarter, where Snow Patrol played their first gig or enjoy some traditional Irish music in Robinsons, Great Victoria Street.

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NORTHERN IRELAND DERRY-LONDONDERRY - 3-DAY ITINERARY Derry-Londonderry, in the North West, will be the inaugural UK City of Culture in 2013, the same year the city marks the 400th celebrations of its world famous Walls. It is a city emerging from a long and colourful history to showcase its beauty and brilliance to the world. This is a city that is the oldest continually inhabited place in Ireland but yet bristles with the energy of the youngest population anywhere in these islands!

A packed progamme of festivals throughout the year includes the famous City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival, the Walled City Music Festival , the amazing Derry Feis and Europe’s most spectacular Halloween celebrations when over 20,000 partygoers thong the atmospheric streets in their spookiest costumes whilst fireworks light up the skyline over the iconic Peace Bridge over the River Foyle.

In 2012, Derry-Londonderry will host the Peace One Day concert, one of the opening events of the London 2012 Festival, and the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race will arrive to the shores of Lough Foyle in July 2012.

2013 also sees the city host the Fleadh Cheoil, a major Irish traditional music event, the first time ever this event has been held in this region attracting competitors and music aficionados from around the world.

The word is getting out about the Derry-Londonderry experience – no time like the present to visit!

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NORTHERN IRELAND DERRY-LONDONDERRY - 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day One

Afternoon

Morning

Hop on the Legenderry Road Train www.legenderryroadtrain.com

Depart from London Stansted and arrive in City of Derry Airport (approx. 20 mins from City Centre).

Note: Other option is to fly to Belfast and then drive to Derry-Londonderry (less than two hours) or take the scenic train journey along the fabulous North Coast.

Get acquainted with the Walled City with a Walking Tour of the Walls.

After some lunch in one of the city’s many cafés, now enjoy a trip on the Legenderry Road Train which takes you on a scenic jaunt around the Maiden City! It brings together the expertise and heritage of the Maiden City to deliver a unique experience for its passengers not seen on any other road train in the UK and Ireland. Choose from several themes such as City of Culture, the Footsteps of Colmcille, Nautical Heritage and the Walled City.

www.derryvisitor.com Duration: 60-90 minutes

Nerve Centre www.nerve-centre.org.uk/

During this guided walking tour, you will discover the fascinating history behind this city. Walk through Derry-Londonderry’s imposing gates and enter another world.

Through these cobbled streets and hilly rises you can explore a cultural capital carved out of history. First off the Walls themselves – nearly 400 years old and some of the best preserved fortifications in Europe. Follow the amazing story of the city, from its founder, St Columba to the present with a fabulous detour to the Spanish Armada en route! Your guide will conjure up scenes from the famous 105 day siege of 1688 when the Apprentice Boys closed the city’s gates against the forces of King James II and in doing so, irrevocably changed the course of European history. And what better way to finish the tour than with a free cup of tea!

Duration: 60 minutes

After the walking tour, explore Guildhall Square with their beautiful new fountain which throughout the year hosts unique cultural activities.

Derry-Londonderry is renowned for its music and its famous musicians and has been christened, the City of Song. The city, whose famous sons and daughters include a range of musicians from The Undertones to Girls Aloud’s Nadine Coyle, has an amazing live music scene. Just take a walk through the city centre on any given night and you can experience a diverse range of musical styles. You can listen to an ultra cool jazz set in Sandinos, enjoy up and coming Indie bands like Intermission in Masons or savour a world class trad session in Peadar O’Donnell’s.

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Now on to the Nerve Centre, recently described as one of the most dynamic and innovative multi media centres in the British Isles. The Oscar nominated centre is housed in a new state of the art building containing a multitude of facilities which include edit suites, rehearsal and recording studios, in-house animation and film productions. It’s home to many up and coming bands such as the Japanese Pop Stars whose cutting edge dance music provides the sound track to multi-million selling video games.

Evening

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NORTHERN IRELAND DERRY-LONDONDERRY - 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Two Morning Tower Museum www.derrycity.gov.uk/museums/tower-museum Telephone: 028 7137 2411 Duration: 2 hours What has the Spanish Armada and Derry-Londonderry got in common? Find out by spending the morning at the award winning Tower Museum, located within the city’s historic walls at Union Hall Place. Permanent exhibitions at the museum include The Story of Derry exhibition and the An Armada Shipwreck – La Trinidad Valencera exhibition. However, throughout the year the museum also plays host to a range of other temporary exhibitions. All the exhibitions use display and interactive techniques to present their stories to the public.

Afternoon Museum of Free Derry www.museumoffreederry.org Telephone: 028 7136 0880 Duration: 60-90 mins The Museum of Free Derry and the National Civil Rights archive focuses on one of the most important periods in the history of the city – the civil rights era of the 1960s and the Free Derry/early Troubles era of the 1970s. The museum currently has an archive of over 25,000 individual items relating to this part of the city’s history. Virtually all of these items have been donated to the museum by local residents, and include some items of immense historical importance. Also take in the famous Bogside Murals.

Apprentice Boys Memorial Hall Website: www.apprenticeboys.co.uk Telephone: 07713 273011 Duration: 60-90 mins The Associated Clubs of Apprentice Boys of Derry is established for the purpose of commemorating the anniversaries of the shutting of the gates and the Relief of the City.

The Hall and Museum is dedicated to the history and heritage of The Siege of Derry of 1688-1689. The Memorial Hall, built in 1873, contains fine examples of meeting rooms for each of the Loyal Orders, while its museum contains artefacts and video presentations relating to the Siege of Londonderry and the Apprentice Boys Association.

Evening Derry-Londonderry is a hugely cultural city, fully deserving of its title as UK City of Culture 2013. The local passion for language that nurtured Ireland’s Nobel Laureate poet Seamus Heaney finds voice in world-class theatres like Millennium Forum, Waterside Theatre and Playhouse so embrace this cultural scene and catch a show or performance at one of the many arts and events venues; Millennium Forum www.millenniumforum.com The North West’s leading entertainment venue celebrates its 10th anniversary this year and has welcomed more than 3.25m visitors in its time. It features a full programme of events from drama to opera, music to comedy, West End musicals to children’s shows.

The Playhouse www.derryplayhouse.co.uk This award-winning venue is now one of the most dynamic multidisciplinary arts centres in Ireland where you can see superb original drama, dance, comedy and music or join in yourself in one of the many workshops.

Verbal Arts Centre www.verbalartscentre.co.uk This venue on the Double Bastion overlooking the new city, you can tell your own story digitally and visit Ireland’s premier Comics Festival or discover a hundred new ways to enjoy literature. This might include reading the centre’s walls which feature the complete text of Ulysses handwritten by the artist Colin Darke.

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NORTHERN IRELAND DERRY-LONDONDERRY - 3-DAY ITINERARY

Day Three

Afternoon

Morning

Peace Bridge and Ebrington www.ilex-urc.com Telephone: 028 7126 9226

Start off your final day in historic Derry-Londonderry with a visit to some of its oldest churches all within the Walls of the city.

St. Columb’s Cathedral www.stcolumbscathedral.org Telephone: 028 7126 7313 Duration: 60 mins The atmospheric St Columb’s Cathedral was the first Cathedral of its kind built after the Reformation. Listen out for the oldest church bells in Ireland and discover artefacts from the Siege of Derry as well as information on some famous personalities whose stories are linked with this Cathedral - e.g. Cecil Frances Alexander (the hymn writer), the Earl Bishop, and the philosopher George Berkeley.

The Cathedral has recently reopened following a significant restoration project, at a total cost of £4m.

Head back onto the Walls and take a short walk over to First Derry Presbyterian Church and Blue Coats Museum & Interpretation Centre. www.discovernorthernireland.com Telephone: (028) 7126 1550 Duration: 60-90 mins Detail: Some time after the lifting of the siege of Derry in 1689, a new Presbyterian meeting house was built within the walls, on the site that continues to be occupied by the present church. To assist with the building, Queen Mary provided a large donation in recognition of the sacrifices of Presbyterians in the defence of Derry. The current First Derry Presbyterian Church was first opened in 1780 and is believed to be on the site of an earlier Presbyterian Church of 1690. Adjoining the Church is the refurbished Blue Coats School, now home to the Blue Coats Museum and Interpretation Centre. This new facility tells the history behind the Church, along with the history of Presbyterians in the city (and beyond) and the role they played in the great Siege.

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Duration: 60 mins As you will have noticed, Derry-Londonderry sits on the banks of the River Foyle. The recently opened Peace Bridge, the city’s newest iconic structure, is a walk and cycle bridge across the River Foyle, and is the city’s third river crossing. Costing over £14m to build, the bridge crosses the river from behind the Guildhall to the former Parade Ground at Ebrington Barracks – linking the Walled City to the new developments at Ebrington and St. Columb’s Park.

Ebrington is currently being regenerated as a major hub which includes a mixed use site for office, retail, commercial, tourist and residential purposes. An arts and culture cluster is envisaged within the Star Fort which includes the Parade Ground and several listed buildings. The Parade Ground is being developed into a 14,000 capacity performance plaza and will be a major venue in the lead up and during City of Culture celebrations in 2013, and hosting such events as the Cultural Olympiad and Peace One Day concert on 21 June, which will be the opening event of the London 2012 Festival.

Evening Spend your last night in Derry-Londonderry exploring the Stirling Prize nominated Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin.

In this cultural and arts centre, you can spend the evening exploring Irish culture music, literature, dance – and perhaps even learn a few steps or tunes yourself!

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NORTHERN IRELAND FERMANAGH - 3-DAY ITINERARY Fermanagh is situated in the south west of Northern Ireland, approximately 1.5 hours from Belfast. This picturesque region is renowned for its beautiful landscape, which is characterised by its numerous Lakes. Often referred to as the Lake District of Northern Ireland, home to the longest navigable waterway in Europe, which has made it one of the premier destinations for a cruising holiday as well as a haven for anglers and water sport enthusiasts. The history and heritage of the county is to be seen at every turn; in the three stunning National Trust properties as well as the numerous other castles and ancient buildings. Devenish Island is truly unique to Co. Fermanagh, accessible by ferry where you can view extensive ruins, including a 12th Century Round Tower, graveyard & 15th Century carved cross.

Fermanagh is also a fantastic location for relaxing- the 5-star Lough Erne Resort just outside Enniskillen where US Open Champion Rory McIlroy has been seen enjoying the course.

2012 is a huge year for Fermanagh with Castlecoole celebrating its diamond jubilee as a National Trust Property and the Happy Days Enniskillen International Beckett Festival, the World’s First Annual Festival celebrating the works of Nobel Prize Writer, Samuel Beckett, from 24th – 27th August 2012.

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Day One Morning Arrive in Belfast or Derry-Londonderry and pack the hire car ready to head south to Fermanagh! Journey time approximately 1 1/2 hours from Belfast and 2hrs from Derry-Londonderry.

Afternoon Visit the award winning Belleek Pottery www.belleek.ie Telephone: (028) 6865 9300 Duration: 2-3 hours Visit the award winning Belleek Pottery, Ireland’s oldest and most famous pottery.

Take a premier tour of the factory and see all the stages of inspiring manufacture.

Browse around the Visitor Centre and Museum which over two decades has become one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions.

Take a walk up the main street of the charming village of Belleek and enjoy tea and home made goodies in “The Thatch” a listed building dating back to the late 18th century. It’s the only originally thatched building remaining in County Fermanagh.

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NORTHERN IRELAND FERMANAGH - 3-DAY ITINERARY Evening We are sailing!

Pass the evening exploring Fermanagh’s most celebrated assets with a boat trip on Lough Erne aboard the Lady of the Lake Tour Boat. www.manorhousecountryhotel.com Telephone: 028 6862 2200 Duration: 2 hours Lough Erne with its large stretches of water covering over 777 sq km, studded with over 156 islands, has been long been known for its natural beauty. It is a bird watchers’ paradise and the fishing in Fermanagh attracts anglers from all over the world.

The Lady of the Lake is a luxurious air-conditioned cruiser providing a superb venue for tours, corporate events conferences and parties for up to 56 people. A specially designed galley can provide a three course seater dinner for up to 38 people. The Erne is now linked to the Shannon system via the Shannon-Erne Waterway making it the longest navigable inland waterway in Europe.

Aerial view from Killadeas Country Fermanagh Index

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Day Two

Evening

Morning

Ardhowen Theatre Enniskillen www.ardhowentheatre.com Telephone: (028) 6632 3233

Marble Arch Caves Geopark www.marblearchcavesgeopark.com Telephone: 028 66 348855 Duration: 2 Hours

Spend the evening enjoying the cultural scene Fermanagh has to offer and catch a show at the Ardhowen Theatre - a 290 seater auditorium, studio theatre, restaurant and bar.

The Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark is host to one of Europe's finest showcaves allowing visitors to explore a fascinating, natural underworld of rivers, waterfalls, winding passages and lofty chambers. Lively and informative guides conduct tours past a bewildering variety of cave formations – stalactites glisten above stream ways and chambers while fragile mineral veils and cascades of creamy calcite coat walls and spread as shimmering terraces across rock strewn floors. Spectacular walkways allow easy access while powerful lighting reveals the stunning beauty and grandeur of the caves. Electrically powered boats glide through huge caverns carrying visitors along a subterranean river.After this, feel free to stroll down the Cladagh Glen (woodland walk).

A wide ranging programme including Drama, Dance, Classical Music, Rock, Pop, Folk, Jazz, Blues, Light Music, Festivals, as well as School and Community events. Before hand, why not enjoy dinner in one of Enniskillen’s many restaurants or even enjoy a pre-theatre drink.

Afternoon

Castlecoole www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-castlecoole Telephone: 028 6632 2690

Aughakillymaude Mummers Centre www.discovernorthernireland.com Telephone: 079710 75955 / 028 6774 2727 Duration: 2 hours Aughakillymaude's Mummers Centre boasts an intricate display of detailed mumming sculptures of Ireland and abroad that recite nonsensical mumming rhymes, a photographic exhibition on mumming, a wickerman effigy and video documentary on mumming bonfire rituals. Groups/Schools can participate in straw craft and mask making workshops.

Learn a traditional straw craft with straw craftsmen the distinctive straw craft of making mummers straw masks, harvest the love knots and straw dolls or a Saint Brigid’s Cross. School groups dressed in mumming straw costumes are shown how to enact the Mummers play.

Day Three Morning

Duration: 2 Hours Castlecoole is one of many National Trust properties in Fermanagh and in 2012 celebrates its Diamond Jubilee as a National Trust property.

Experience the stately grandeur of this stunning 18th-century mansion set in a beautiful wooded landscape park – which is ideal for family walks. Castle Coole is one of Ireland's finest Neo-classical houses: the sumptuous Regency interior and the State Bedroom prepared for George IV provide a rare treat for visitors, allowing them to glimpse what life was like in the home of the Earls of Belmore. Discover the story of the people who lived and worked below stairs as you explore the splendid suite of servants' rooms and service quarters of this magnificent property.

Mumming has come to define what Aughakillymaude people are all about - acting as one, creating fun and sharing its traditions of skittles (wooden bowls) traditional music, dance and mumming with visitors and new families into the area from far and wide.

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NORTHERN IRELAND FERMANAGH - 3-DAY ITINERARY Afternoon Golf at Lough Erne www.lougherneresort.com/golf Telephone: 028 6634 5766 Duration: 3-4 hours Lough Erne Resort 'Golf Resort of The Year' (Irish Golf Tour Operators Association, 2010) is home to two Championship Golf Courses - The Faldo Course and Castle Hume Golf Course.

The Faldo Championship Course is designed by six time Major winner Nick Faldo, his first golf course design in Ireland and is represented on the World Stage by U.S Open Winner Rory McIlroy. A spectacular setting, nestled on a private 240ha peninsula between Lower Lough Erne & Castle Hume Lough.

Evening Belle Isle School of Cookery www.irishcookeryschool.com Telephone: 028 6638 7231 Take an evening course or cookery demonstration at the Belle Isle School of Cookery.

Demonstrations include a glass of wine, tastings of all the prepared recipes and a copy of the recipes. Bon Appetit!

Lough Erne Country Fermanagh Index

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