Winter into Spring Day Excursions Brochure 2016 17

32

Day Excursions

Local Boarding Points See rear cover

Enjoy Great Days Out from Autumn to Spring Includin

g

TIME W O H S RE THEATS TRIP

Enjoy the Views – Treasure the Memories!

2016/17 September-March

AUTUMN TO SPRING DAY EXCURSIONS 2016-2017 CHOOSE FROM 7 DIFFERENT THEMES Showtime ‘Theatre Trips’

4-7

Memorable Occasions

8-9

Countdown to Christmas

10-12

Festive Lunches

13-14

Towns & Museums

15-16

Historic Houses, Gardens & Parks

17

Markets & Shopping

18

Welcome to our latest ‘Excursions’ brochure!

O

nce again, we have put together a varied programme of day trips throughout the winter season and into spring. With 7 different themes, there is something to tempt every interest from museums and musical events to gardens and historic houses.

Why not let one of our excursions brighten up your day!

Travel with Johnsons – Travel with Friends Our SeeMore Club members receive £2 off every Day Excursion or ‘Showtime’ trip and £10 off every holiday – plus many other benefits!

See more and Save more!

To join, just give us a call Book online and save £1.00 per person

2

u 21 NEW Destinations to visit u Most Excursions with

u Reserved Seating on all Excursions u 32 local Boarding Points on all Excursions ‘Club Class’ Coaches

Travel Office Opening Hours Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.30pm Saturday: 9.00am-1.00pm

Telephone

01564 797000 Liveridge House, Liveridge Hill, Henley-In-Arden, Warwickshire B95 5QS (on the Birmingham Road, A3400, just north of Henley) Front cover tours include: • Longleat Festival of Light • Highcliffe Castle • Brighton i360 • Chelsea Flower Show • Manchester Ship Canal

CHOOSE FROM 32 LOCAL BOARDING POINTS – SEE BACK PAGE

YOUR 2016-2017 EXCURSIONS PLANNER Day

Destination

Page

Sat 10

l Chitty Chitty Bang Bang – Birmingham

NEW

4

OCTOBER

Tue 18

l Jersey Boys – London

4

NOVEMBER

Thu 3 Sun 6 Tue 8 Sat 12 Sat 12 Sun 13 Tue 15 Wed 16 Thu 17 Fri 18 Sat 19 Sun 20 Mon 21 Tue 22 Wed 23 Wed 23 Thu 24 Fri 25 Sat 26 Sun 27 Mon 28 Tues 29 Wed 30

l Harry Potter Studio Tour 8 l Bonhams London to Brighton NEW 8 Veteran Car Run l The British Museum – Sunken Cities: NEW 16 Egypt’s Lost Worlds, London l Peak Railway 9 l Spectacular Classics – Birmingham 4 l London Shopper 18 l Chatsworth House 10 l Christmas Lunch Cruise, Windsor 13 NEW 11 l Ely Cathedral Gift and Food Fair l Blenheim Palace and the “Living Crafts for Christmas” Craft Fair 10 l Gloucester Quays Christmas Market 11 l Holme Lacy House Festive Lunch 13 l London Christmas Cruise NEW 9 and London Eye l Tissington Hall – Tales of Enchantment 14 l Waddesdon Manor (NT) 12 l Thursford Christmas Spectacular 5 l Chatsworth House 10 l Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre 12 NEW 5 l Nutcracker, Milton Keynes l Birmingham Tattoo – NIA 5 l London Christmas Lights and Sights Tour 11 l Christmas at Rockingham Castle with Yuletide Cream Tea 10 l West Midlands Safari Park with Christmas Lunch in Spring Grove House 14

DECEMBER

Thu 1 Thu 1 Fri 2 Sat 3 Sun 4 Mon 5 Tues 6 Wed 7 Thu 8 Thu 8 Fri 9 Sat 10

Day Sun 11

SEPTEMBER

l Christmas with Mr Selfridge, NEW 11 Highcliffe Castle NEW 6 l The Railway Children, London l Chatsworth House 10 l Chester Christmas Market 10 l Melton Mowbray Victorian Christmas Fayre NEW 14 & Belvoir Brewery Tour with Lunch l Christmas Music Hall at Wicksteed Park 13 l Longleat Festival of Light 12 l Wurlitzer Concert & Musical Museum with Afternoon Tea, Middlesex 12 l East Lancashire Railway with Christmas Lunch 13 l Motown – London 6 l A Taste of Cruising: Lunch Aboard the Magellan 13 NEW 10 l Bath Christmas Market

Mon 12 Tue 13 Wed 14 Thu 15 Fri 16 Sun 18 Tue 20

Destination

Page

l Harrods Christmas Shopping with Afternoon Tea 8 l Tower of London Medieval NEW 14 Christmas with Festive Lunch l Cheshire Oaks 18 l Chatsworth House 10 l Windsor Castle Dressed for Christmas NEW 12 l Hardwick Hall – Dressed for Christmas (NT) 11 NEW 6 l Christmas Cracker – London l Upton House Nr Banbury – NEW 14 1940’s Christmas

JANUARY

Sat 14 Sun 22 Wed 25 Sun 29

l Cinderella – London l Enigma – ‘The Code Breakers’ Station l Dreamgirls – London l Imperial War Museum, London

Tue 7 Thu 9 Thu 9 Wed 15 Thu 23 Tue 28

l Snowdrops at Stowe Gardens (NT) l Capital Curios – London l Beautiful – London l Bury Market l Hampstead – A London Village l Kew Gardens Orchids Festival

7 15 NEW 7 16 NEW

FEBRUARY

17 15 7 NEW 18 17 NEW 8 NEW

MARCH

Tue 7 Thu 9 Mon 13 Wed 15 Thu 16 Sat 18 Tue 21 Wed 22 Fri 24 Sat 25 Sun 26 Tue 28 Wed 29 Thu 30 Fri 31

NEW 17 l Nottingham Heritage l Royal Albert Hall Grand Tour with Lunch 9 l Bakewell & Denby Pottery 18 l Browsholme Hall NEW 17 with Lunch, Lincolnshire l Peterborough Cathedral Guided Tour NEW 16 l Hay on Wye – Town of Books 16 l Bristol with Lunch Onboard NEW 15 SS Great Britain l The View from the Shard 9 NEW 8 l Hampton Court, Florimania l Camden Market & London Hidden Waterway 15 NEW 9 l Mothers Day on the River Thames l Lincoln 16 NEW 18 l Ludlow Market and Food Centre l London Wetlands Centre 17 l Cotswolds Blue Badge Tour NEW 15 and Compton Verney

Theme Colour Key

l Showtime ‘Theatre Trips’ l Memorable Occasions l Countdown to Christmas l Festive Lunches l Towns & Museums l Historic Houses, Gardens & Parks l Markets & Shopping

WITH 7 EXCURSION THEMES – THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!

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SHOWTIME THEATRE TRIPS NE W

NEW

CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG Birmingham Hippodrome Matinee Performance 2.30pm (Stalls) Watch out! The most Fantasmagorical musical, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, lands in Birmingham in 2016. One of the world’s favourite musicals, it will have audiences of all ages flying high with its mixture of madness, intrigue and exuberance.

Can the loveable but whacky inventor, Potts, along with his two children and the gorgeous Truly Scrumptious, outwit the bombastic Baron Bomburst who has decreed that all children be banished from his kingdom?

What happens when the children are caught and imprisoned with the other youngsters by the evil Childcatcher? Will it all end happily-ever-after?

Well, of course it will!

JERSEY BOYS Piccadilly Theatre, Denman Street, London WC1D Matinee Performance 3.00pm (Stalls) Discover the legendary story of a group of working class boys from the wrong side of the tracks who became one of the biggest pop music phenomena of all time – Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.

They wrote their own songs and invented their own sounds, selling 175 million records worldwide – all before they were 30. This smash hit Broadway musical features all the classic hits: ‘Sherry’, ‘Big Girls Don’t Cry’, ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You’, ‘Bye Bye Baby (Baby Goodbye)’ and many more.

Saturday 10 September 2016

Tuesday 18 October 2016

Depart Henley: 11.30pm Arrive: 12.30pm* Return Henley: 6.30pm*

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive: 12.30pm* Return Henley: 9.30pm*

Price: £65.50

Price: £67.50

SPECTACULAR CLASSICS Birmingham Symphony Hall Matinee Performance 2.30pm (Front Stalls) An afternoon of great classics, dazzling lasers and special effects, including a stunning 1812 Overture finale complete with cannon effects and indoor fireworks!

Join the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and choir as they perform some of the best loved classical music of all time including ‘Duet from The Pearl Fishers’, ‘La donna e mobile’, Finale from ‘Swan Lake’, along with all your proms favourites, ‘Rule, Britannia!’, ‘Bolero’, ‘Nimrod’ and ‘Hornpipe’. A show not to be missed!

Saturday 12 November 2016 Depart Henley: 12.30pm Arrive: 1.45pm* Return Henley: 6.15pm*

PRICE: £64.50 4

*Approximate Time

12 GREAT SHOWTIME EXCURSIONS FOR YOU TO ENJOY

SHOWTIME THEATRE TRIPS NE W

THURSFORD CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

NUTCRACKER Milton Keynes Theatre Matinee Performance 2.30pm (Stalls)

Matinee Performance 2.00pm (Stalls) Get into the Christmas Spirit with the THURSFORD CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR! This is a fabulous extravaganza of seasonal entertainment. The largest and most popular Christmas show in England with dazzling dancers, beautiful costumes, Christmas songs, carols and singing and dancing from the cast of over 100, set in the magical surroundings of the mechanical Organs and Carousels of the Thursford Collection. Please note: Thursford will not permit children under the age of 8 years.

This magical production is guaranteed to cast an unforgettable spell over the entire family with its touching story of young Clara who receives a wooden nutcracker doll from an eccentric magician.

See her magical adventure unfold as she takes a hot air balloon ride across London to the glistening Land of Snow. Performed to Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score this is the perfect Christmas treat for all.

Wednesday 23 November 2016

Saturday 26 November 2016

Depart Henley: 7.30am Arrive: 12 noon* Return Henley: 9.30pm*

Depart Henley: 10.30am Arrive: 12.30pm* Return Henley: 7.00pm*

PRICE: £70.50

PRICE: £57.50

BIRMINGHAM TATTOO Birmingham NIA Matinee Performance 2.00pm (Block 10 Lower) Britain’s biggest indoor international tattoo with over 1,000 performers. Sit back and enjoy this breath-taking 3 hour spectacular, bringing together marching bands and exciting displays including Royal Air Force Cosford Queens Colour, the RNRMC Field Gun Competition, the United Kingdom Disco Display Team and the Parade of Massed Standards. The show will culminate in a Spectacular Grand Finale featuring special guest appearances by vocal soloists which are guaranteed to entertain.

Sunday 27 November 2016 Depart Henley: 11.30am Arrive: 12.45pm* Return Henley: 6.45pm*

PRICE: £46.50 *Approximate Time

RESERVED SEATING ON ALL EXCURSIONS

5

SHOWTIME THEATRE TRIPS NEW

MOTOWN THE MUSICAL Shaftesbury Theatre, London Matinee Performance 2.30pm (Stalls)

Join Bobbie, Peter and Phyllis on a magical journey, as they tell the story of how they became The Railway Children. This stunning adaptation of E Nesbit’s classic novel, is brought to life featuring a stage that is built around a real train track and platforms. Be amazed as the 60-tonne locomotive and Gentleman’s Carriage steams into the theatre.

A truly unique performance.

Featuring music and lyrics by The Legendary Motown Catalogue, the show is based on the book “To Be Loved: The Music, The Magic, The Memories of Motown” by Berry Gordy. An eighteen piece orchestra brings to life 50 Motown tracks including ‘My Girl’, ‘Dancing in the Street’, ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ and ‘I Heard It through the Grapevine’, it is described as a “musical sensation with real soul”. Discover how this music mogul, discovered and launched the careers of Diana Ross and the Supremes, Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, Marvin Gaye and many more.

Thursday 1 December 2016

Thursday 8 December 2016

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive: 12.30pm* Return Henley: 9.30pm*

Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive: 12.30pm* Return Henley: 9.30pm*

Price: £72.50

Price: £81.50

THE RAILWAY CHILDREN Kings Cross Theatre, London Matinee Performance 2.30pm (Platform 2)

CHRISTMAS CRACKER

NE W

Cadogan Hall, London Matinee Performance 3.00pm (Centre & Side Gallery) Join the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at Cadogan Hall for a fun filled afternoon concert ‘Christmas Cracker’. Set in a fantastic location in the heart of Chelsea, Slone Square will be lit for Christmas for this magical performance.

Special Guest vocalists will feature in the programme which includes arrangements of Michael Buble’s ‘Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)’, ‘Last Christmas ’by Wham and the festive favorite Mariah Carey’s ballad ‘All I want For Christmas Is You’. There will be plenty of festive songs and music, and a chance to join in with the sing-along carols!

Sunday 18 December 2016 Depart Henley: 9.00am Arrive: 12.30* Return Henley: 9.30pm*

PRICE: £64.50 6

*Approximate Time

YOU CAN ‘PARK AND RIDE’ FOR FREE! – SEE BACK PAGE

SHOWTIME THEATRE TRIPS NEW

NE W

DREAMGIRLS Savoy Theatre, London Matinee Performance 2.30pm (Stalls & Dress Circle)

CINDERELLA London Palladium Matinee Performance 2.30pm (Upper Circle) For the first time in nearly 30 years, the pantomime returns to this iconic theatre the London palladium.

This enchanting rags to riches fairy tale will be led by an all star cast (to be announced) and promises magnificent scenery and lavish costumes. Enjoy the magical moment when Cinderella swaps her rags for a stunning ball gown and is transported to the Prince’s Ball. Produced by Odos Entertainment you will not want to miss this theatrical delight!

Thirty-five years after the ground-breaking original Broadway production, this UK premiere comes to the West End. Dreamgirls takes you back to the R&B era, the revolutionary time that made music history in1960’s America. Witness the journey that the three young female singers make though the music industry. See how they rise from Chicago to become huge stars. With book and lyrics by Tom Eyen and music by Henry Krieger, featuring classic songs such as ‘And I am Telling You I’m Not Going’, ‘I Am Changing’, ‘Listen’ and ‘One Night Only’.

Saturday 14 January 2017

Wednesday 25 January 2017

Depart Henley: 8.00am Arrive: 12.00 noon* Return Henley: 9.00pm*

Depart Henley: 8.30am Arrive: 12 noon* Return Henley: 9.00pm*

Price: £79.50

Price: £72.50

BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL Aldwych Theatre, London • Matinee Performance 2.30pm (Stalls) Tracing the career of Carole King, and endorsed by the beloved Grammy winner herself, the story tells how she fought her way into the record business as a teenager and, by the time she reached her twenties, had the husband of her dreams and a flourishing career writing hits for the biggest acts in rock ‘n’ roll.

It wasn’t until her personal life began to crack that she finally managed to find her true voice. The show features her classic songs including ‘It Might As Well Rain until September’, ‘Take Good Care of My Baby’, ‘Locomotion’, ‘(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman’, ‘You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling’, ‘Will You Love Me Tomorrow’ and ‘You’ve Got a Friend’ amongst many more.

Thursday 9 February 2017 Depart Henley: 8.30am • Arrive: 12.00 Noon* • Return Henley: 9.00pm*

Price: £72.50 *Approximate Time

YOU CAN BOOK ONLINE & SAVE £1 PER PERSON – AT www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk

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MEMORABLE OCCASIONS © Flickr - allen watkin

BONHAMS LONDON TO BRIGHTON VETERAN CAR RUN

*Approximate Time

NEW

Sunday 6 November 2016

A great opportunity to see one of the longest running motoring events in the world, a real highlight of the year for car enthusiasts. Classic cars of all shapes Adult and sizes will take part in this yearly run that commemorates the Emancipation Concession Run which took place on the 14 November 1896, this was to celebrate the passing into law of the Locomotives on the Highway Act. This year sees the Child 120th anniversary of the very first Run. Join in the celebrations on Brighton’s seafront as these extraordinary automobiles finish their 60 mile run from Hyde Park in London.

© Historic Royal Palaces

HAMPTON COURT, FLORIMANIA, Surrey

NEW

Friday 24 March 2017

© Flickr - TS Multimedia

Sunday 11 December 2016

£39.50 £38.50 £34.50

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

8.30am 12.00pm* 5.00pm 8.30pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

8.30am 11.30am* 5.00pm 8.00pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

9.30am 12.00pm* 6.45pm 9.00pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

9.00am 12.00pm* 6.00pm 9.00pm*

If you only visit one store in London, make it Harrods. Established in 1834 it is now world famous, its magnificent architecture makes Adult £53.50 it an iconic part of London. It has a reputation for excellence and Concession £52.50 offers finest quality merchandise. From specialised tea to designer fashions spread over 5 floors with over 300 departments including Child £50.50 the famous food halls. Late afternoon, we visit the nearby hotel The Rembrandt for a traditional afternoon tea complete with delicate cakes, finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam. Includes: Traditional afternoon tea at The Rembrandt.

HARRY POTTER STUDIO TOUR, London © Flickr - David Farquhar

7.00am 11.30am* 5.00pm 9.00pm*

Enjoy this amazing extravaganza of colourful floral displays inspired by five centuries of history. This magnificent red brick Tudor Palace was Adult £64.50 built by Cardinal Wolsey in 1520 for King Henry VIII. Visit England’s Concession £63.50 last and greatest medieval hall with its fine tapestries and walk in the footsteps of this great king. See a recreation of his crown in the Royal Child £58.50 Pew and explore the Tudor kitchens and let them take you back to a heyday of royal cooking and entertainment. We include a voucher for a hot lunch in the Tiltyard café which can be taken at your leisure. Includes: Admission and a voucher for a 2 course hot lunch & drink.

HARRODS CHRISTMAS SHOPPING WITH AFTERNOON TEA

Thursday 3 November 2016

The Warner Bros. studio tour provides an amazing opportunity to explore the behind the scenes magic of Adult £69.50 the Harry Potter films. Step inside and discover the Concession £68.50 actual Great Hall, explore Dumbledore’s office and discover never-before-seen treasures. See a huge array Child £62.50 of beautiful sets, costumes and props including the original Hogwarts Express steam engine and recreation of Platform 9¾. Discover how some of the most iconic scenes were created and even climb on board and explore the interior carriage set that was used during filming. We stop in Windsor at lunch time before heading to the studio for an afternoon tour. Includes: Admission.

KEW GARDENS ORCHID FESTIVAL, Surrey © RBG Kew

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

Tuesday 28 February 2017

NEW

Kew gardens have the world’s largest collection of living plants. Set it beautiful landscapes with Adult £64.50 glasshouses and such a vast range of rare and beautiful Concession £63.50 plants, there is plenty to see. We visit during the Orchid Festival, a spectacular display of colour. Explore the Child £61.50 exotic world of orchids and tropical plants and find out about the importance of these beautiful and diverse species. We include afternoon tea at a nearby truly elegant Victorian hotel; indulge in finger sandwiches followed by a delicious assortment of homemade cakes, pastries and scones before we head home. Includes: Admission and afternoon tea (please note that the Kew Palace will not be open).

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MEMORABLE OCCASIONS – A GREAT SELECTION OF 10 EXCURSIONS

MEMORABLE OCCASIONS © 2016 Pixabay

LONDON CHRISTMAS CRUISE AND LONDON EYE

*Approximate Time

NEW

Monday 21 November 2016

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

7.00am 11.00am* 6.00pm 9.30pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

8.00am 11.30am* 5.00pm 8.30pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

8.30am 10.30am* 4.30pm 6.30pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

8.00am 11.30am* 5.00pm 8.30pm*

Depart Henley: Return Henley:

8.00am 9.00pm*

We head to Greenwich for a short visit. With lots of shops, cafes and restaurants there will be plenty of opportunity for lunch Adult £68.50 before we head to Greenwich Pier late afternoon to board the Concession £67.50 boat for our cruise on the river. Flowing through the heart of London, it’s the perfect way to see the city with its sparkling and Child £66.50 twinkling trees that line the river Thames. We disembark at Waterloo Pier ready for the London Eye flight; this is one of the world’s tallest observation wheels with breath taking views of London’s most famous landmarks. After a 30 minute flight, our coach will be waiting to take us home. Includes: Thames Cruise and London Eye.

MOTHERS DAY ON THE RIVER THAMES, London

NEW

Sunday 26 March 2017

Make Mother’s Day a day to remember with a delicious 2 course lunch on the River Thames. We head to London to board the sightseeing Adult £74.50 cruise at Tower Pier, welcomed with a glass of sparkling wine before Concession £73.50 sitting down for lunch. Enjoy the four piece jazz band playing music during the 1hr 45 min cruise while seeing riverside landmarks such as Child £58.50 Big Ben, the London Eye, Tower Bridge and many more. A perfect way to relax and see the city. Includes: Sightseeing jazz cruise, 2 course lunch, unlimited tea and coffee.

© Peak Rail PLC 2016 - Stephen Chisholm

PEAK RAILWAY, Derbyshire Saturday 12 November 2016

We make our way through the stunning Peak District scenery to the historic town of Buxton, where we Adult £36.50 make a short stop for coffee. We continue through Concession £35.50 the majestic scenery to Bakewell, where there is time to explore and have lunch and perhaps try a Child £31.50 pudding of two! We then make the short journey to Rowsley where we will enjoy a nostalgic return train ride to Matlock on the Peak Railway to enjoy more of the beautiful Derbyshire countryside. Includes: Train ride and free time in Buxton and Bakewell.

© Flickr - Bloodwise

ROYAL ALBERT HALL GRAND TOUR WITH LUNCH IN THE VERDI RESTAURANT Thursday 9 March 2017

Enjoy a Grand Tour of the Royal Albert Hall and take an extensive journey through this iconic building which is full of Adult £65.50 fascinating history. The tour covers all front of house areas Concession £64.50 including the stunning auditorium, exclusive access to the Royal Retiring Room and the breath-taking view from the Child £62.50 Gallery. Following our tour, we head to the Verdi restaurant, relax in elegant surroundings and enjoy a 2 course lunch. There will be time in the afternoon to explore one of the nearby museums. Includes: Grand Tour and 2 course lunch.

© Flickr - smuconlaw

THE VIEW FROM THE SHARD WITH AFTERNOON TEA AT THE STRAND PALACE, London Wednesday 22 March 2017

Adult £81.50 The Shard is an iconic, landmark building, Concession £80.50 visible from where ever you are in London.

Designed by Master Architect Renzo Piano, Child £76.50 the building combines offices, restaurants and London’s highest viewing gallery. At 1,016ft high this is the highest building in Western Europe. We travel to level 69 which offers a 360 degree, 64 km incredible view over the city. Enjoy the multimedia displays which tell the past, present and future of London. After our visit to the Shard we include a delicious afternoon tea in Covent Garden followed by free time before returning homeward. Includes: Entrance to the Shard & afternoon tea in Covent Garden.

ALL PRICES INCLUDE ADMISSION CHARGES

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COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS BATH CHRISTMAS MARKET

*Approximate Time

© VisitEngland - Visit Bath

NEW Saturday 10 December 2016

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

9.30am 12.00pm* 5.00pm 7.30pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

9.15am 10.45am* 4.00pm 5.30pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

8.30am 10.45am* 4.00pm 6.15pm*

Each year, the centre of Bath is transformed into a magical Christmas shopping extravaganza, with over 140 beautifully Adult £33.50 decorated wooden chalets lining the streets surrounding the Concession £32.50 Roman Baths and Bath Abbey. This magical setting filled with sounds of choirs and aromas of mulled wine, is the Child £29.50 perfect place to find unique Christmas gifts and handmade decorations. There will be plenty of festive food and drink to help you enjoy the day.

BLENHEIM PALACE AND THE ‘LIVING CRAFTS FOR CHRISTMAS’ CRAFT FAIR Friday 18 November 2016

Blenheim Palace sits among over 2,000 acres of beautifully landscaped parkland and gardens. Home to the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough, Adult £47.50 it was also the birth place of Winston Churchill. See the stunning portraits, Concession £46.50 tapestries and exquisite collection of furniture in the Great Hall and State Rooms. Follow the ghostly figure of Grace Ridley the 1st Duchess’s maid and Child £44.50 let her reveal the true family stories in the unique visitors experience the ‘The Untold Story’. The Living crafts fair is held within the grounds of the Palace and offers the perfect opportunity to purchase Christmas gifts and stocking fillers for all the family. Includes: Entrance to Blenheim Palace and craft fair.

© Chatsworth House Trust

CHATSWORTH HOUSE, Derbyshire Tuesday 15 November 2016/Thursday 24 November 2016 Friday 2 December 2016/Wednesday 14 December 2016

Chatsworth House will be magically transformed during the Christmas Adult £47.50 season with the lower floors of the house decorated to the theme of the Concession £46.50 Russian Ballet, The Nutcracker. The glimmer of candles, the fragrance of decorated trees and the sound of music playing combine to make a Child £41.50 unique experience. Refreshments are available along with a gift shop offering Christmas goods and produce. Before arriving at the house we make a stop at the nearby farm shop.

Both November dates will include the Christmas market offering a wide range of stalls along with seasonal musical entertainment from brass bands to string quartets. Includes: Entrance House & Grounds.

© Flickr - Smith & Brown

CHESTER CHRISTMAS MARKET Saturday 3 December 2016

Located within the heart of the city by the Town Hall and the cathedral, this “Old England” themed winter market has over 70 traditional chalets featuring a range of gifts and winter refreshments. The market offers a wide range of beautiful jewellery, toys, hand-made Christmas decorations, paintings, cards and original art. There’s festive food on offer and plenty of hot drinks to keep you warm while you shop.

© Rockingham Castle

CHRISTMAS AT ROCKINGHAM CASTLE WITH YULETIDE CREAM TEA, Leicestershire Tuesday 29 November 2016

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

8.45am 11.30am* 4.30pm 7.30pm*

Adult Child

£35.50 £34.50 £26.50

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

9.15am 11.15am* 4.30pm 6.00pm*

Concession

After a short stop for lunch, we step back in time with an afternoon visit to Rockingham Castle. The Castle Courtyard, decorated with Adult £46.50 illuminated trees, offers an insight into how preparations for Concession £45.50 Christmas would have been made in 1881. The housekeeper, butler and governess have been working hard to prepare the Castle – Child £39.50 the fires are lit, the food prepared and the Great Hall table is set for Christmas lunch. Join the guided tour to see them putting the final touches to their work and hear the story of a Victorian Christmas Eve. After our tour we enjoy a festive Yuletide cream tea before heading home. Includes: Admission, guided tour and Yuletide cream tea.

10

A COLLECTION OF 15 EXCURSIONS FOR YOUR COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS WITH MR SELFRIDGE

*Approximate Time

NEW

Thursday 1 December 2016

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

9.00am 12.30pm* 3.30pm 7.00pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

8.30am 11.30am* 4.30pm 7.00pm*

The United States-born British retail magnate Harry Gordon Selfridge rented and lived at Highcliffe Castle, Dorset, between 1916 and 1922. This Christmas visit gives you the Adult £60.50 chance to celebrate in the style of Mr Selfridge, on arrival to the castle tea room, you Concession £59.50 will be greeted with a glass of warm mulled wine by Rose Selfridge! The tea room will be decorated in Edwardian style with 8 ft tin soldiers, 6ft Father Christmas’ and authentic Child £55.50 decorations from the era. Meet Mr Selfridge (a Shakespeare actor) while you are having your lunch and listen to the fascinating story he has to tell. Enjoy homemade Christmas cake, mince pies and let the maids in their mop caps and Edwardian aprons serve you an endless supply of loose leaf tea which has been specially prepared for the Selfridge experience. Please note this does not include a castle tour. Includes: Welcome drink, Mr Selfridge Talk, lunch (selection of sandwiches and cake) crackers and table gift.

ELY CATHEDRAL CHRISTMAS GIFT AND FOOD FAIR

NEW

Thursday 17 November 2016

Enjoy a real Christmas shopping experience at this magnificent medieval building, a perfect setting for a wonderful day out. With over 150 exhibitors inside the Adult Cathedral, there will be lots of choice for that unusual special gift or unique Concession decoration. Seasonal floristry and cooking demonstrations will take place during the day and the Cathedral Choristers along with other local performers will offer Child musical entertainment. A selection of refreshments and light lunches will be available in the heated Café Marquee, so you can sit back and relax and enjoy this lovely festive event. Includes: Admission.

© Flickr - kennysarmy

GLOUCESTER QUAYS CHRISTMAS MARKET Saturday 19 November 2016

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

9.30am 11.00am* 4.30pm 6.00pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart Masson Mills: Return Henley:

9.30am 11.00am* 4.30pm 6.00pm*

Adult

£41.50 £40.50 £38.50

Gloucester Quays is promising all the hustle and bustle of a Dickensian festive feast when the Victorian Christmas Market returns this November.

Adult £29.50 There will be around 150 decorated stalls selling everything from fine Concession £28.50 food and drink, to children’s toys, artisan jewellery, homewares, clothes and accessories, not to mention a host of handmade trinkets perfect for Child £26.50 Christmas gift ideas. Live music will ring out of the Quays from brass bands to Christmas carollers, while the stars of the show are expected to be the larger-than-life wandering characters – including street urchins, ruffians, pickpockets, chimney sweeps and Victorian policemen – all guaranteed to surprise.

HARDWICK HALL (NT) DRESSED FOR CHRISTMAS Friday 16 December 2016

Hardwick Hall is a magnificent statement of the wealth and status of its builder, Bess of Hardwick and it remains almost unchanged since she lived there and gives an insight into the formality of Elizabethan courtly life.

The hall will be dressed up and decorated for Christmas, there will be room guides who can give you information about the hall and all its contents.

After lunch, we make a coffee stop at Masson Mills Shopping village, a unique shopping experience set over five floors before heading home.

Please note that a reduced number of rooms are visible during the Christmas period. Includes: Admission.

LONDON CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AND SIGHTS TOUR © Flickr - nicolas stefanni

£37.50 £36.50 £32.50

Monday 28 November 2016

Concession Child

Reduction for National Trust members

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

9.45am 1.15pm* 6.00pm 9.30pm*

Enjoy the lights and sights on London from the warmth and comfort of the coach! We meet our Blue Badge Guide at The Strand Palace hotel.

Adult £65.50 This Edwardian hotel was given an Art Deco makeover in the 1920’s and Concession £64.50 we include a 2 course carvery lunch in the beautifully appointed restaurant. After lunch we join the coach to begin our tour, we take in all Child £62.50 the major sights of the city along with some of London’s secret treasures.

The tour will end at Somerset House, a spectacular neo-classical building in the heart of London where they will be time for refreshments (not included) before we head for home. Includes: Blue Badge guided coach tour & 2 course carvery lunch.

100 years

JOHNSONS – A FAMILY BUSINESS ESTABLISHED OVER 100 YEARS

100 years

11

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

*Approximate Time

© Flickr - Kieron Marr

LONGLEAT FESTIVAL OF LIGHT Tuesday 6 December 2016

© Flickr - Peter Dean

8.30am 11.30am* 4.00pm 7.00pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive: Depart destination: Return Henley:

10.00am 11.30am* 4.30pm 6.00pm*

Adult

£45.50 £44.50 £41.50

Longleat House is set within 900 acres of stunning ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped parkland, and is one of the best examples of Adult £56.50 high Elizabethan architecture in Britain. The festival of light is held Concession £55.50 every year, and features giant Chinese Lanterns hand made out of steel frames which are covered in beautiful silks. Spread across Child £51.50 acres of gardens, they create a spectacular sight. The house will be dressed for Christmas, each room in its own style. As we arrive, we tour the safari park before free time to explore the house and other park attractions. Please note: Only ground floor rooms are visible during the Christmas period. Includes: Admission to House & Gardens, Safari Park & Festival of Light.

WADDESDON MANOR (NT), Buckinghamshire Wednesday 23 November 2016

This Renaissance style chateau is a delight to visit at any time of year, but particularly so at Christmas. Enjoy the beautifully and elegantly decorated rooms of the East Wing of the house which resound with music, carols and festive atmosphere. There will be plenty of time to visit the Christmas Fair, which is held in the formal gardens of the Manor. Over fifty hand selected stall holders will be housed in wooden chalets offering gifts, decorations and festive foods. Includes: Admission.

WINDSOR CASTLE DRESSED FOR CHRISTMAS © Flickr - Kevin Oliver

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

NEW

Thursday 15 December 2016

Concession Child

Reduction for National Trust members

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

8.00am 11.00am* 4.00pm 6.30pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

9.45am 10.45am* 4.00pm 5.00pm*

Adult Child

£26.50 £25.50 £21.50

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

8.45am 11.30am* 5.00pm 7.45pm*

Windsor is a delightful place to visit at any time of the year, but Christmas time is extra special. The Windsor Royal Adult £49.50 shopping centre has over 40 great shops all located in the Concession £48.50 Grade II listed Victorian Railway Station. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants to have lunch before our afternoon visit to Child £42.50 Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited Castle in the world. It has been the family home of British Kings and queens for over 900 years. Our visit includes the Semi-State rooms created by George IV and the magnificent state apartments which will be transformed with festive decorations. Visit the exhibition which marks the occasion of The Queens 90th birthday, “Fashioning a Reign”, which will include dresses, jewels and accessories worn

by Her Majesty and will chart significant events in the Queens life. Includes: Admission to the Castle and special exhibition.

WORCESTER VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS FAYRE Friday 25 November 2016

With over a hundred stalls the Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre offers an array of local handmade arts and crafts, along with festive gifts for shoppers looking for a perfect Christmas present. There will be plenty of Christmas ‘flavour’ to enjoy with seasonal foods such as roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. Stallholders dress in traditional dress as 19th century ladies, gents, urchins and chimney sweeps. There will be a lively entertainment programme with magical dance displays, choirs, instrumental performances and even juggling Victorian themed stilt walkers!

WURLITZER CONCERT & MUSICAL MUSEUM WITH AFTERNOON TEA, Kew Bridge, Middlesex Wednesday 7 December 2016

Concession

After a short stop for lunch, we make our early afternoon visit to the Musical Museum. We take a guided tour as we step back a hundred years Adult £57.50 or more and enter the magical world of automatic music. The tour centres Concession £55.50 around live presentations of instruments, including delicate musical boxes, organs and self-playing violins. Later we take our seats for the Christmas Child £53.50 Concert featuring the Mighty Wurlitzer organ, which rises up from beneath the stage in a blaze of sound and colour. Relax and enjoy the many seasonal tunes and carols while you are served a seasonal afternoon tea. Includes: Guided tour of the Musical Museum, Wurlitzer Concert with seasonal afternoon tea.

12

LUXURY ‘CLUB CLASS’ COACHES ON MOST EXCURSIONS

FESTIVE LUNCHES

*Approximate Time

A TASTE OF CRUISING: LUNCH ABOARD THE CRUISE & MARITIME CRUISE SHIP MV MAGELLAN, Tilbury Docks Friday 9 December 2016

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

7.00am 10.45am* 4.00pm 7.30pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

9.30am 12.30pm* 4.00pm 7.00pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

9.30am 11.00am* 4.30pm 6.00pm*

Adult Child

£51.50 £50.50 £43.50

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

8.30am 11.30am* 4.15pm 7.15pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

10.15am 11.45am* 4.15pm 5.30pm*

A great opportunity to experience a cruise ship, we head to Tilbury Docks to board the Magellan. Enjoy a welcome drink on board and Adult £79.50 see the facilities that the ship has to offer; with its spacious Concession £79.50 surroundings and comfortable lounges, explore the decks and see the wide range of cabins and suites available. We enjoy a 4 course Child £76.50 festive lunch in the ships impressive restaurant before relaxing in the Show Lounge and enjoying the afternoon Cabaret Show. Includes: Welcome drink, 4 course lunch with wine and tea/coffee and afternoon cabaret show.

CHRISTMAS LUNCH CRUISE, Windsor Wednesday 16 November 2016

We travel to Runnymede to board our festive lunch cruise, where we will be Adult £70.50 greeted with a glass of Mulled wine.

Concession £69.50 Enjoy a delicious three course hot Christmas Lunch followed by coffee and Child £67.50 mince pies, as you take in the scenery of the Royal River Thames. We cruise upstream as far as Old Windsor Lock and then downstream through Bell Weir Lock passing Runnymeade and Staines. The Boat will turn at Penton Hook Lock for its return journey. Includes: Boat Cruise, 3 course lunch with coffee and mince pies.

CHRISTMAS MUSIC HALL AT WICKSTEED PARK, Northamptonshire Monday 5 December 2016

Wicksteed Park combines excitement and entertainment with the tranquillity of a Grade II country park. We include a festive lunch, before enjoying the afternoon show 'Oh! What a Christmas Cracker’ a collection of classic and festive singing and dancing. Enjoy the fabulous band performing the best festive songs of all times, including ‘White Christmas’, ‘I saw mommy Kissing Santa Claus’, ‘Oh I wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day’ and many more. Includes: Admission, 2 course lunch and afternoon refreshments.

EAST LANCASHIRE RAILWAY WITH CHRISTMAS LUNCH Thursday 8 December 2016

Concession

The perfect way to celebrate Christmas! Experience a festive meal with all the trimmings as the beautiful winter Adult £73.50 Lancashire countryside passes you by. Arriving at Bury we Concession £72.50 have time to visit the Bury Transport Museum if you wish, before joining our return train ride to Rawtenstall.

Child £69.50 Your meal is served during the journey and includes Soup, Turkey dinner, Christmas pudding and mince pies. Includes: Return train ride, entrance to the museum & 3 course festive lunch and coffee.

HOLME LACY HOUSE FESTIVE LUNCH, Hereford Sunday 20 November 2016

Holme Lacy House is situated in the countryside just outside of Hereford.

Adult £50.50 This four star hotel is a Grade I listed Concession £49.50 Georgian manor house. Much of the house has original plaster ceilings and furniture, Child £47.50 many dating back to 1674. We arrive at noon to enjoy our three course festive Christmas lunch before taking a seat for the afternoon pantomime, performed by the talented entertainment team.

Includes: 3 course lunch and entertainment.

10 FESTIVE LUNCHES FOR YOU TO ENJOY

13

FESTIVE LUNCHES

*Approximate Time

MELTON MOWBRAY VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS FAYRE & BELVOIR BREWERY TOUR WITH FESTIVE LUNCH

NEW

Sunday 4 December 2016

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

Enjoy the variety of stalls at the bustling Victorian Fayre which takes place throughout the entire town of Melton Mowbray.

Adult Watch the street theatre and entertainment before we continue to Concession the Belvoir Brewery for our tasty 3 course Christmas lunch, which includes beer tasting. After lunch, we have the chance to see how Child the beer is produced during our guided tour of the brewery before we head home. Includes: 3 course lunch, guided brewery tour and beer tasting.

TISSINGTON HALL, Derbys, ‘TALES OF ENCHANTMENT’ Tuesday 22 November 2016

9.00am 10.30am* 4.30pm 6.00pm*

£53.50 £52.50 £47.50

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

8.45am 10.45am* 4.00pm 6.00pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

7.45am 11.30am* 4.30pm 8.15pm*

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9.30am 10.30am* 3.00pm 4.00pm*

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10.30am 11.30am* 4.00pm 5.00pm*

Home to the FitzHerbert family, the Hall has presided over the Estate Village for over 400 years. This year, Tissington Hall will open its doors into the Adult £54.50 enchanted world of CS Lewis, Brothers Grimm and Lewis Carol. With the Concession £53.50 help of our guide, there will be plenty of tales to discover at this magical time. We include a light lunch of jacket potato with a choice of filling, Child £51.50 Bakewell tart with custard and tea/coffee before a short guided walking tour of the village. We break our return journey with a quick stop in the delightful market town of Ashbourne. Please note that there will be a number of steps involved in the guided house tour. Includes: Admission with a guided tour and 2 course lunch.

© Flickr - Aidan Wakely-Mulroney

TOWER OF LONDON MEDIEVAL CHRISTMAS WITH FESTIVE LUNCH

NEW

Monday 12 December 2016

The Tower is home to ten centuries of history and intriguing tales. Meet the Yeoman Warders and listen to the stories that Adult £68.50 they have to tell as the Tower celebrates Christmas Medieval Concession £67.50 style. See the famous collection of finery and regalia along with the Crown Jewels and discover the importance they have Child £58.50 played to the British Monarchy. Visit the White Tower and the new interactive gallery which helps you explore the history of the Tower armoury and the people who worked there. There is so much to see at this world famous fortress, even Royal Beasts, as this was home to London’s first Menagerie! We include a voucher for a festive hot lunch that can be taken at the Armouries Café at your leisure. Includes: Admission, voucher for a 2 course hot lunch & drink.

UPTON HOUSE, Nr Banbury BANKING FOR HISTORY! A COUNTY HOUSE AT WAR WITH LUNCH

NEW

Tuesday 20 December 2016

Experience a nostalgic 1940’s Christmas and wartime story. We are greeted with coffee on arrival, where we Adult £56.50 will meet our guide, who will help us discover the Concession £55.50 important role that Upton House played during the Second World War. When the London air raids began and the Child £52.50 family owned merchant bank was in danger, Lord and Lady Bearsted moved all the staff and assets to their family home Upton House. We see how the British spirit helped the staff in the toughest times, how they prepared for Christmas with make do and mend decorations and special handmade gifts. We include a festive lunch to enjoy before a short visit to the gardens and shop before heading home. Includes: Admission, coffee on arrival, guided tour and a 2 course hot lunch.

WEST MIDLANDS SAFARI PARK WITH CHRISTMAS LUNCH IN SPRING GROVE HOUSE Wednesday 30 November 2016

Enjoy a tasty Christmas lunch in an unusual venue! After lunch at the splendid Spring Grove House, we have time to explore all that West Adult £52.50 Midlands Safari Park has to offer. Perhaps visit the parks new attraction Concession £51.50 “Land of the Living Dinosaurs” an immersive walking trail featuring 38 life size dinosaurs. We visit the all-weather safari from the warmth and Child £48.50 comfort of our coach. Look out for the animals tucking into their very own Christmas lunch. Includes: Admission, 2 course lunch in Spring Grove House and safari tour.

14

CHOOSE FROM 32 LOCAL BOARDING POINTS – SEE BACK PAGE

TOWNS & MUSEUMS © Flickr - Nina

BRISTOL WITH LUNCH ON BOARD SS GREAT BRITAIN

*Approximate Time

NEW

Tuesday 21 March 2017

8.30am 11.00am* 4.30pm 7.00pm*

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8.00am 11.00am* 4.00pm 7.00pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

7.00am 10.30am* 4.45pm 8.15pm*

Depart Henley: Return Henley:

9.00am 5.30pm*

We board the world’s first great Ocean Liner and experience the sights, sounds and smells of life on board. Launched in 1843, SS Great Britain Adult £63.50 has a remarkable story. Hear about her rescue from the bottom of the Concession £62.50 Atlantic and show she returned to Bristol. Audio guides will be available for your visit and we include lunch on board in the Hayward Child £59.50 Saloon. In the afternoon, we make the short transfer into the centre of Bristol for some free time to explore, perhaps visit the cathedral, Bristol Museum or one of the many shops that the city has to offer. Includes: Admission to SS Great Britain and 2 course lunch.

CAMDEN MARKET & LONDON’S HIDDEN WATERWAY, Walkers Quay, Camden Lock © Flickr - Vinicius Pescador

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

Saturday 25 March 2017

Travelling to London, we enjoy free time exploring Camden Market before our relaxing Regents Canal Cruise on board Adult £48.50 NB My Fair Lady. A tranquil oasis in the heart of London’s Concession £47.50 bustling Camden Lock. Commencing at Walker’s Quay, you rise 2.5 metres in the lock at Camden, before sailing Child £46.50 through London Zoo, Regent’s Park, a short canal tunnel, through to Robert Browning’s Island at Little Venice, before returning to Walker’s Quay. During the cruise, enjoy an interesting commentary from your knowledgeable crew. Includes: Canal Cruise on board NB My Fair Lady (this boat is covered and heated).

CAPITAL CURIOS, London

NEW

Thursday 9 February 2017

We meet our guide in Central London. After light refreshments, we head off to explore curious and quirky details of the city, stopping in Mayfair to Adult £58.50 enjoy many curiosities all within a short walk of each other. See Churchill Concession £57.50 and Roosevlet on a park bench, chat to a Burlington Arcade Beadle, part the world’s oldest and smallest private police force, as they protect the Child £56.50 Arcade. After lunch, we visit the Freemasons Grand Lodge in Covent Garden. We have a guided tour around this beautiful building, and there will be a short time to see the library and museum of masonry. Includes: Guided tour and entrance to the Freemasons Grand Lodge, tea/coffee on arrival and 1 course lunch (drinks and desserts can be purchased on the day).

© VisitEngland - Compton Verney - Emily Medcraft

COTSWOLDS WITH A BLUE BADGE GUIDE & COMPTON VERNEY Friday 31 March 2017

Adult £47.50 With our Blue Badge guide on-board, we journey into The Concession £46.50 Cotswolds. Visiting some of the most delightful villages, we stop for lunch at Bourton on the Water, the Venice of The Cotswolds.

Child £42.50 We will have the opportunity to visit one of the locations for many scenes from the TV hit Downton Abbey, where you can walk the streets of this famous programme. We finish the day at the iconic site of Compton Verney, exploring its fantastic collection of art. Housed in a Grade I listed mansion set in 120 acres of ‘Capability’ Brown parkland, this is a wonderful place to visit. Includes: On-board guide and entrance to Compton Verney.

‘ENIGMA’ – THE CODE BREAKERS’ STATION , Buckinghamshire © Flickr - Alyson Hurt

NEW

Sunday 22 January 2017

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

9.00am 10.30am* 3.30pm 5.00pm*

Once Britain’s Best Kept Secret, today Bletchley Park, home of the Code breakers is a heritage site. Visitors can explore and Adult £42.50 experience the top secret world of iconic WWII Code breaking Concession £41.50 Huts and Blocks set within an atmospheric Victorian estate, where 12,000 people worked in complete secrecy. Perhaps join a guided Child £35.50 tour (tour tickets can be collected on the day) or collect a multimedia guide and listen to an audio account about the history of the site, the buildings and the people that worked there. Includes: Admission, guided tour and multimedia guide.

A COLLECTION OF 10 EXCURSIONS FOR TOWNS & MUSEUMS

15

TOWNS & MUSEUMS

*Approximate Time

© Flickr - James Stringer

HAY-ON-WYE – TOWN OF BOOKS, Herefordshire Saturday 18 March 2017

© Flickr - Xiquinho Silva

Sunday 29 January 2017

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

8.00am 11.00am* 4.30pm 7.30pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

9.00am 11.30am* 4.00pm 6.30pm*

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8.30am 11.00am* 4.00pm 6.30pm*

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8.30am 12.00pm* 5.30pm 9.00pm*

This award-winning museum tells the story of 20th century conflict on the home front and on the front line. New exhibitions Adult £29.50 include Peter Kennard: “Unofficial Artist”, “Visions of War Above Concession £28.50 and Below”, which displays a variety of imaginative responses to conflict from abstract views. “A Woman’s War” explores the Child £25.50 impact of the Second World War on women’s lives through the photography of Lee Miller. Other permanent exhibitions and galleries include ‘The Lord Ashcroft Gallery’ featuring the largest collection of VC’s. The ‘Holocaust Exhibition’ and ‘A Family in Wartime’. Includes: Admission is free.

LINCOLN © Flickr - Tomasz Dunn

9.15am 11.30am* 4.30pm 6.45pm*

Hay-on-Wye is a small market town in Powys, situated on the Wales/England border. The town lies on the Adult £29.50 east bank of the River Wye and is within the Brecon Concession £28.50 Beacons National Park, just north of the Black Mountains. Often described as the “Town of Books”, Child £25.50 it is the National Book Town of Wales and its numerous bookshops are a delight to browse at any time of year. It is also the twin town of Timbuktu!

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM, London

Tuesday 28 March 2017

Lincoln is a city, rich in history, combined with shopping, great arts and culture. Start at the top in Castle Square and wander Adult £33.50 down the cobbled streets enjoying the views along the way.

Concession £32.50 The Castle and the Cathedral dominate the skyline with their Gothic buildings and are both well worth a visit. Lincoln Child £29.50 Cathedral was once the world’s tallest building in the world, see its magnificent architecture inside and out. Visit the new-look Castle, where you can walk the full circumference of the wall, a journey through the history of Lincoln and a vantage point for spectacular views. Admission fees not included.

PETERBOROUGH CATHEDRAL GUIDED TOUR © www.geograph.org.uk - Richard Croft

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NEW

Thursday 16 March 2017

We visit Peterborough Cathedral, which is one of the finest Norman cathedrals in England. Founded in 654 AD, it became one Adult £55.50 of the most significant medieval abbey’s in the country, the burial Concession £54.50 place of two queens and the scene of Civil War upheavals giving us plenty to see and hear about during our 60 min guided tour.

Child £51.50 We will have some free time in this Heritage City; perhaps pay a visit to the Museum and Art Gallery with collections of 200,000 items of great national importance.

If you prefer the shops, then Queensgate has over 90 stores with thousands of brands. We transfer the short distance to a nearby hotel for a lovely afternoon tea before heading home. Includes: Guided tour of cathedral and afternoon tea at nearby Best Western Hotel.

© Flickr - NeferTiyi

THE BRITISH MUSEUM – SUNKEN CITIES: EGYPT’S LOST WORLDS, London

NEW

Tuesday 8 November 2016

We arrive at the Museum in time for lunch in the onsite café, before we meet our Blue badge guide, half of the group will enter the Sunken Cities exhibition, while Adult £63.50 the other half will begin the tour of the galleries. With the theme “Lost and Found”, Concession £62.50 our guide will help us discover some of the lesser known treasures of the collection.

There will be free time to visit the bookshop or some of the other galleries. We will Child £59.50 gather later in the afternoon for the second half of the group to enjoy the exhibition which tells the story of the meeting of the Ancient Egyptian and Greek worlds. Includes: Entrance to The Sunken Cities: Egypt’s Lost Worlds exhibition and galleries, guided tour with Blue Badge Guide.

16

TRAVEL WITH JOHNSONS – TRAVEL WITH FRIENDS

HISTORIC HOUSES, GARDENS & PARKS BROWSHOLME HALL WITH LUNCH, Lancashire

NEW

Wednesday 15 March 2017

We head for the market town of Clitheroe for a short coffee stop before arriving at Browsholme Hall. Ancestral home of the Parkers, Bowbearers of the Forest of Bowland since Tudor Times and still the family home today. After our included lunch, we enjoy a guided tour of this magnificent Lancastrian historic house. See the unique historic collection of fourteen generations family possessions. We have time to visit the garden and grounds that are laid out in the style of Capability Brown before leaving for home.

Includes: Admission with guided tour and 2 course lunch.

© Flickr - Martin Addison

HAMPSTEAD – A LONDON VILLAGE Thursday 23 February 2017

© Flickr - claire.donner

Thursday 30 March 2017

8.00am 11.30am* 12.30pm 1.00pm* 4.00pm 7.30pm*

Adult Child

£59.50 £58.50 £55.50

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Arrive Henley:

7.30am 10.30am* 4.00pm 7.00pm*

Depart Henley: Arrive destination: Depart destination: Return Henley:

8.00am 11.00am* 3.30pm 6.30pm*

Concession

Nestled in a loop of the Thames, London Wetland Centre is a beautiful place to visit. Watch wildlife in comfort from a two storey, glass fronted observatory with Adult the London skyline as the backdrop. It has six viewing hides with large windows Concession and Peacock Tower, a three-story hide on the main lakes edge. There are plenty of meandering paths and boardwalks which lead you around the grounds.

Child We include a guided wildlife tour where we will explore the rain garden and gain tips to encourage nature to blossom in your own garden at home. Includes: Admission and guided wildlife tour.

NOTTINGHAM HERITAGE © VisitEngland - ExperienceNottinghamshire

Depart Henley: Arrive Clitheroe: Depart Clitheroe: Arrive at Browsholme: Depart destination: Arrive Henley:

Travelling to Hampstead, we meet our local guide for morning coffee and biscuits, before being whisked off to see the Hampstead Garden Suburb, Adult £64.50 including the Avenue; a millionaire’s row and one time home to Billy Butlin Concession £63.50 and Gracie Fields. We stroll through the lanes of old Hampstead – the Montmartre of London, a pleasant and easy walk, that brings us back to the Child £61.50 pub for a tasty roast of the day lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of Kenwood House, a superb country house gifted to the nation by the Guinness family. The House, with its breathtaking interiors and stunning art collection has a vast array of masterpieces on display. Includes: Guided tour, morning coffee, ‘Roast of the Day’ pub lunch & guided tour of Kenwood House.

LONDONS WETLANDS CENTRE

NEW Tuesday 7 March 2017

£47.50 £46.50 £40.50

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8.30am 10.00am* 4.30pm 6.00pm*

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9.30am 11.00am* 4.15pm 5.45pm*

We visit Newstead Abbey, a beautiful historic house set in the heart of Nottinghamshire. The ancestral home of poet, Lord Byron, Adult £59.50 the greatest romantic poet of his time. Visit the Byron collection in Concession £58.50 his private apartments and see the furniture, letters and many objects that belonged to him. Explore the medieval cloisters and Child £56.50 the magnificent Victorian room. We include a hot lunch before leaving for Wollaton Hall, a fine Grade I listed Elizabethan mansion. We have free time to visit the main hall and the Natural History Museum, before our guided behind the scenes tour into the Tudor Kitchens and The Prospect room with its stunning architecture and panoramic views of the city. Includes: Admission to Newstead Abbey with 2 course hot lunch, Wollaton Hall with a guided tour and light refreshments in the afternoon.

SNOWDROPS AT STOWE GARDENS (NT), Buckingham © Flickr - claire.donner

*Approximate Time

Tuesday 7 February 2017

Picture perfect views, winding paths and lakeside walks; Stowe is a breathtakingly beautiful creation bursting with delicate snowdrops Adult £44.50 or ‘Stowedrops’ as they like to call them here. Hidden amongst Concession £43.50 spectacular views and vast open spaces there are over 40 monuments and temples to see, including the greatest temple of all: Child £41.50 Stowe House. Your visit starts at the New Inn visitors centre, with recreated Georgian parlour rooms where visitors of the past were welcomed. There will be time to use the Nevillry café for lunch before a short transfer to Stowe House for a guided tour. Includes: Admission to Stowe Gardens NT and guided tour of Stowe House.

DISCOVER 5 HISTORIC HOUSES, GARDENS & PARKS

17

MARKETS & SHOPPING

*Approximate Time

© Visit Derbyshire

BAKEWELL AND DENBY POTTERY Monday 13 March 2017

8.30am 11.00am* 4.00pm 5.30pm*

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8.00am 11.00am* 5.00pm 8.00pm*

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8.30am 10.30am* 4.00pm 6.00pm*

Adult Child

£29.50 £28.50 £26.50

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9.00am 10.30am* 4.30pm 6.00pm*

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8.00am 11.00am* 5.00pm 8.00pm*

We journey to Bakewell to visit the bustling weekly market.

This beautiful old market town is full of rich heritage and Adult £32.50 tradition, famous for its puddings. There are plenty of tea Concession £31.50 rooms and independent shops to visit or just take time to explore the town and admire the fine stone Derbyshire Child £29.50 buildings. In the afternoon, we stop at the Denby Visitors Centre which has been making the famous Denby stoneware for over 200 years. The largest collection of Denby in the world is here. Visit the Home Store or the Factory Shop, which has the very latest patterns and products.

© Flickr - Mikey

BURY MARKET

NEW Wednesday 15 February 2017

Voted market of the year 2015, with the Open Market, Market Hall and Market Parade, there is plenty to offer. This traditional Adult £35.50 open market has over 300 stalls with a further 60 in the Market Concession £34.50 Hall with gift ware, hardware, linens, clothing and so much more, you will be spoilt for choice. There are plenty of cafes and Child £32.50 takeaways, something to suit everybody’s taste. The town has lots to offer, with the Fusilier Museum, and a wonderful Art gallery. If it’s more shops that you want, then the Mill Gate and Rock shopping centres are a just a short walk away.

CHESHIRE OAKS © Marketing Cheshire

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Tuesday 13 December 2016

Cheshire Oaks was the first Designer Outlet, and remains the UK’s largest. With 145 boutiques, restaurants and cafes, this makes for a shopping experience to remember. The McArthur Glen outlet has a wide range of brands including high-street favourites like Marks & Spencer and Next, along with many iconic fashion brands like Burberry, Superdry and All Saints, all at up to at 60% less than RRP. Includes 10% discount card valid in selected stores.

© Flickr - Lukemn

LUDLOW MARKET AND FOOD CENTRE

NEW Wednesday 29 March 2017

Concession

We visit the market in the heart of this historic town, with its medieval street layout and remnants Adult £35.50 of the town’s ancient walls, this is a great place to Concession £34.50 explore. We have time for lunch in the local cafes and restaurants before we make our short journey Child £29.50 to the Ludlow Food Centre. Voted Britain’s Best Farm Shop and Best Food Hall, this is a unique food shopping experience.

Watch each department make the food they sell with local ingredients and skilful techniques. We include a drink and a cake in the restaurant the ‘Ludlow Kitchen’ before we return home. Includes: Drink and cake at the Ludlow Food Centre.

© Flickr - I-Chi Ko

LONDON SHOPPER Sunday 13 November 2016

A great opportunity to get your Christmas shopping done in one fell swoop! Undoubtedly the shopping capital of Adult £30.50 the world, London has an incredible array of shops Concession £29.50 catering for every taste and budget. Oxford Street lies at the very centre, where major department stores rub Child £27.50 shoulders with shopping arcades and boutiques.

Whatever you are looking for, London is packed with shops just waiting to be explored.

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SHOP ‘TILL YOU DROP’ ON OUR CHOICE OF 5 MARKETS & SHOPPING TOURS

MAKING ENQUIRIES & BOOKING YOUR EXCURSION INFORMATION AND ADVICE Contact our Travel Office at Henley in Arden.

Visitors are welcome at our offices at Liveridge Hill (on the Birmingham Road A3400, just north of Henley), where there is ample free parking. You will find our cheerful staff happy to answer any queries you may have.

(b) BY THE PASSENGER – Excursion Bookings You may cancel your booking at any time prior to departure, subject to the following conditions: (i) For cancellations notified to us more than 7 days prior to the departure of the excursion, a £5.00 charge per booking is EXCURSION & SHOWTIME BOOKINGS made.

To make a provisional booking, a simple (ii) For cancellations for which less than 7 telephone call is all that is needed. We will (but more than 1) clear days notice is hold places for you without obligation for 7 received, a £15.00 per person charge is days. You can book directly with our Travel made.

Office, through an appointed Travel Agent, or (iii) For cancellations made within 1 day of on-line at www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk. Please the excursion, the full cost of the excursion note that provisional bookings will be will be charged. cancelled automatically if payment is not (iv) Special cancellation charges may apply received within 7 days. where admission tickets are purchased in advance.

CONFIRMATION OF BOOKING In order to confirm your booking, we require payment in full within 7 days. Once payment is received, we will send your confirmation/receipt, the number and location of seats booked. Pick-up times will be confirmed within five days of the excursion departure date. Please check your confirmation details carefully as late alterations will incur charges.

METHODS OF PAYMENT All normal methods of payment, including cash, are possible at our Travel Office. By post, with a cheque (a booking form is enclosed for your convenience) or by debit/credit card – i.e. Switch, Visa, Mastercard, by telephone or by post.

PLEASE MAKE CHEQUES PAYABLE TO: ‘JOHNSONS COACH TRAVEL’. Please note there is a 2% charge for payments made by credit card.

REDUCTIONS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS, STUDENTS & CHILDREN Senior Citizens and Students (with a valid student card) are carried at the Concession rate. Children aged 4-14 are carried at the Child rates listed in this brochure. Please note, we cannot accept unaccompanied children below 14 years of age.

CANCELLATION (a) BY THE COMPANY – Should circumstances arise where, due to less than 20 bookings, we are forced to cancel any excursion; all monies paid by all passengers for that particular excursion will be refunded. Following that, the Company shall be exempt from any further liability.

However, in addition to this, we will offer a 5% discount off the price of an alternative excursion booked as a result of the cancellation.

(c) BY THE PASSENGER – Showtime Bookings You may cancel your booking at any time prior to departure, subject to the following conditions: (i) Should cancellation occur at any time prior to departure, a charge will be made

for the relevant show ticket cost included with your Showtime excursion, plus £10 per person to cover administration, unless the tickets are re-sold. (ii) Where tickets are re-sold, a £10 per person administration charge will be made.

PERFORMING ARTISTS For some shows, it may be advertised that a well-known personality is taking a starring role. We cannot be held liable, if on the date of our visit, the personality is unable to perform and is replaced by an understudy.

ALTERATIONS The Company reserves the right to alter excursions or prices, the size and specification of the vehicle used, or to cancel any excursion listed in this brochure. Please note; if you request a change of boarding point, this will incur an administration charge.

ADMISSION CHARGES Are included in all prices, unless stated.

BOARDING INFORMATION Notification of Boarding Times You will be informed of your pick up time by post, 5 days prior to the departure of the excursion. If you have not received your pick up time within 3 days of departure, please contact our Travel Office on 01564 797000 (Option 0).

Group Booking When reserving 15 or more places in a single booking, we are pleased to offer 1 pickup from a location of your choice (Subject to vehicular access).

Discounts may also be available dependant on numbers booked.

D D D D D D

Late Booking If your booking is made within 7 days of departure, some pick up points may not be available and payment in full is required at the time of booking. Please check with our Reservations staff who will be happy to advise you.

Feeder Vehicles Feeder vehicles may be used to bring you to join the main coach.

Please note that the feeder vehicle may be a Coach, Minibus or Taxi.

Coaches For your comfort and peace of mind, all our ‘Club Class’ coaches have the following luxury features:

C C C C C C

13M 12 11 10 9 8 7 Toilet & Washroom 6 D C 5 D C 4 D C 3 D C 2 D C 1

B B B B B B B B B B B B B

A A A A A A A A A A A A A

DRIVER

our 49 seat ‘Futura’

CLUB CLASS

• Extra legroom and reclining seats

• Seat belts on all seats

• Toilet/washroom

• Hi floor style for excellent sightseeing

• No smoking

• Air conditioning

RESERVED SEATING ON ALL EXCURSIONS

DRIVER

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BOARDING POINTS FOR ALL EXCURSIONS BOARDING POINTS AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE Alcester Balsall Common* Birmingham: Acocks Green Birmingham: Cotteridge/ Kings Norton Birmingham: Hall Green Birmingham: Longbridge Birmingham: Maypole Birmingham: Selly Oak Coventry Evesham* Henley High Street Henley in Arden* Hockley Heath Kenilworth Leamington Spa Lillington Redditch Solihull: Dorridge Solihull: Knowle Solihull: Olton Solihull: Shirley Nottcutts

Solihull: Shirley ‘By Barclays’ Solihull: Solihull Railway Station Stratford upon Avon Studley Warwick: Bus Station Warwick: Hampton Road Warwick: Tesco* Wellesbourne Wootton Wawen

Bus Stop Outside The Library, Birmingham Road Wyevale Solihull (Blooms) Garden Centre, Kenilworth Road, B92 0LP Acocks Green Bowl, Westley Road Bus Stops CN/CP, Pershore Road South, Opp Kings Norton Railway Station The Rug Shop, Robin Hood Island Bus Stop LC, Longbridge Lane by Longbridge Railway Station NEW Bus Stop outside Sainsburys, Maypole Lane Out of Town Bus Stops Bristol Road, Opposite Sainsburys Coach Lay-by, Hales Street, Opposite Old Fire Station Evesham United Football Club, A46, Cheltenham Road, WR11 2LZ Bus Stop outside the Three Tuns Pub (and opposite) Henley High Street Johnsons Travel Office, Liveridge House, Liveridge Hill, A3400, B95 5QS Bus Stop, Opposite Nelsons Fish & Chip Shop, Stratford Road The Clock, Bus Stop Junction of Newbold Terrace and The Parade Bus Stop outside Tesco Extra, Cubbington Road Church Green Bus Stop, by HSBC Bank Bus Stop, Railway Station, Station Approach Bus Stop, Junction Station Road and Warwick Road Bus Stop, Station Entrance Outside main entrance to Nottcutts Garden Centre Please note that new barriers & bollards do restrict the opportunity to park on the main Nottcutts car park outside normal opening hours. When parking your car please use the Tesco’s side of the car park.

By ‘Barclays’, Junction of Stanway Road and Stratford Road Bus Stand, Opposite Railway Station, Station Approach, Solihull Lay-by opposite Civic Hall, Rother Street Lay-by outside Co-op Supermarket, Alcester Road Market Street, Stand E Coach Park in front of the Girls Marching Band HQ, Hampton Road Warwick Bus Stop, Opposite Petrol Station, Off Emscote Road, CV34 5QJ Outside Village Hall, School Road Bus Stop, General Store, A3400 (and opposite)

BOARDING POINTS AVAILABLE SUBJECT TO A £5 per person Supplementary Charge Shipston on Stour Sutton Coldfield

Bus Stop adjacent to Pettiphers Garage, A3400 Outside McDonalds, The Parade

*PLEASE NOTE THAT FREE CAR PARKING IS AVAILABLE AT: Our Travel Offices: Liveridge House, B95 5QS – FREE Balsall Common: Wyevale Solihull (Blooms) Garden Centre, Kenilworth Road, B92 0LP – FREE Evesham: Evesham United Football Club, A46, Cheltenham Road, WR11 2LZ – FREE Warwick Tesco: Tesco Superstore, Emscote Road, CV34 5QJ – FREE Parking at any of the above locations is at your own risk, Johnsons cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage caused while parked at any of the locations listed. Please ensure valuables are left out of sight and your vehicle is secure before you depart on your trip.