We are delighted to present our new winter holiday programme featuring departures from October 2025 to April 2026, with a sneak peak at a few further ahead. This brochure is packed with a wide choice of destinations in the UK and abroad, showcases our Christmas holidays, and offers wonderful experiences, from the famous Christmas Spectacular at Thursford, Scotland’s Enchanted Forest, to fabulous Warner breaks, to cruising through the breathtaking Rhine in Flames.
Our customers choose us time and time again, and they often say it’s because we’re a local family-owned business offering exceptional door-to-door service, professional and friendly drivers, top-quality hotels, engaging itineraries with fantastic inclusions, and a level of personalized care that’s hard to find in today’s fast-paced world. Let our experienced team handle all your holiday plans, so you can sit back, unwind, explore, and take in the breathtaking views. Thank you for exploring our brochure – we look forward to welcoming you aboard soon.
Kristy
Kristy Elsmere Joint Managing Director
Booking with Woods
• Phone or visit our office in Bognor Regis (or visit your local travel agency) to talk about your chosen holiday
• Provisional bookings are held without obligation for 7 days
• In order to confirm your booking, a £100 deposit per person is needed for all coach holidays, £150 per person for holidays which include a flight, and £200 for river cruises. Also a completed booking form
• Payments can be made by cash, cheque, credit/debit card or bank transfer
• The final balance for your holiday is usually payable 8 weeks before the date of departure. The payment date and amount is printed on your confirmation
• Our terms and conditions are printed in the brochure and are available on our website
• You will receive your Holiday Travel Pack approximately 10 days before you travel. This will contain your luggage labels, your coach meeting time, itinerary, hotel addresses and any other information relevant to your holiday
• The only thing left to do is pack your case and await your holiday!
Caring for the environment
There is much in the news about the damage that vehicle emissions do to our environment. Did you know that a coach is the cleanest form of transport, much more so than travelling by plane? Just one of our fleet of Euro 6 coaches carrying 50 passengers is the equivalent of removing ten cars from the road, and takes the space of only two. In our offices we are working toward using less resources and all our brochures are available electronically on our website. The paper we use is from responsible sources and where we have to use a wrapping on our brochures, we use a compostable material, less harmful to the environment.
Experience & Expertise
Woods have over 50 years’ experience in the travel industry, and have grown into an award-winning company, known for the quality of our holidays and our dedication to customer service. Still family run, Woods are large enough to offer the benefits that you need, such as door to door service and a wide variety of destinations, but small enough to care about the holiday experience of each individual valued customer.
Financial Security
The combination of travel services offered to you is a package within the meaning of the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018. Therefore, you will benefit from all rights applying to packages; Woods Travel will be fully responsible for the proper performance of the package as a whole. Additionally, as required by law, Woods Travel have protection in place to refund your payments and, where transport is included in the package, to ensure your repatriation in the event that they become insolvent. Woods Travel are members of the Bonded Coach Holiday Group, overseen by The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited. This is a government approved consumer protection scheme. This ensures that in relation to the coach package holidays described in this brochure (or website) that a Bond, which may be called upon in the unlikely event of the members Insolvency, protects the clients’ monies. Clients are recommended to inspect the current membership certificate at our registered office or alternatively go to www.abtot.com/bch-abtot-membersdirectory or telephone 0207 065 5316 to confirm current membership.
Most of the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the ATOL scheme (ATOL 9503). But ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services listed in this brochure. This brochure shows you the protection that applies in the case of each holiday and travel service provided, before you make your booking. For more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.caa.co.uk
Details of the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 can be found at legislation.gov.uk. Your attention is also drawn to the BCH ABTOT Trading Charter on page 70.
ETIAS
(European Travel Information & Authorisation System)
From the last quarter of 2026, all travellers from non-EU countries to the EU will need to apply for an ETIAS. The cost will be €7 per person and will be valid for three years. Applications can be made online and can take up to 30 days to process. The exact date is not yet confirmed, but if you book a holiday to the EU with Woods, we will advise you of the process once the system is finalised.
Door to Door Service
We are proud to have pioneered the concept of door to door service. This couldn’t be easier. A taxi will call to pick you up from your front door and deliver you to our luxury coach. Your luggage is then transferred to the coach by the driver. On arrival at your destination, while you settle into your comfortable en-suite room, your suitcase is delivered to your door. On your return, a taxi will meet the coach and transfer you and your luggage back home.
All Woods Holidays Include
• Free door to door service from within the local area (see map on back cover)
• Direct coach travel without feeders or interchanges
• No overnight land travel
• All coach travel and listed excursions
• All entrances fees and fares as described
• Travel pack with itinerary
• Friendly experienced drivers
• Luggage handling
• 24-hour emergency contact
• Air-conditioned luxury tour coaches with toilets
• Coach seat selection
• All non-smoking
• Refreshment facilities
• Carefully selected quality hotels
• Choice of dinner menu on UK tours
• Financial security
Gift Vouchers
As a birthday or Christmas gift, something special for Mother’s or Father’s Day, or just a thank you for someone special – Woods gift vouchers are the perfect choice!
Hebrides (60)
Highlands & Trains (16) Cairngorms*
Perth & Pitlochry (22)
Edinburgh*
Lakes & Dales (53)
Hadrian’s Wall (56)
Northumbria (44)
County Durham*
Lake District (18,56)
Isle of Man*
Connemara (11)
Killarney*
Yorkshire (21, 30, 42) Lancashire (45)
Blackpool (23)
North Wales (31, 40, 57)
Great Little Trains (14, 56)
Derbyshire Peaks (29, 53)
Cheshire (40)
Shropshire (47)
Llandrindod Wells (48)
South Wales (42)
Tenby (25)
North Devon (15)
Dawlish (14)
St Agnes (19, 33, 52)
Isles of Scilly (12, 47)
Thoresby (53)
Lincolnshire (18, 27)
Orton Hall (35)
Rutland (20)
Warwickshire (10, 35, 36, 39)
Cambridgeshire (37)
Malvern (32) Hereford (38)
Cotswolds (23, 34, 38, 45)
Bristol (30, 46)
Bath (20, 30, 46)
Wiltshire (20, 28)
Somerset (21, 33, 43, 57)
New Forest (36)
Looe (29, 39)
Falmouth (19)
Guernsey (17, 58)
Thursford (26)
Norfolk (26, 54)
Suffolk (49, 55)
Isle of Wight (24, 31, 34)
Bournemouth (28, 41, 55)
Weymouth/Portland (15, 37)
Jersey* Torquay/Paignton (27, 41)
Sidmouth (25, 49)
Kent (10, 46)
Cruising with Fred.Olsen
27 June 2025 ESCORTED
Scenic Landscapes of The Norwegian Fjords* 7 Nights
03 October 2025 ESCORTED
Exploring The Landscapes of España Verde* 7 Nights
22 December 2025
Canary Island Christmas & Lisbon New Year 13 Nights page 32 05 May 2026 ESCORTED
Italy’s Scenic Riviera & Charming Cinque Terre 17 Nights page 62 18 June 2026 ESCORTED
Mountains, Fjords & Glaciers of Norway 8 Nights page 63
Ask to join our Sussex Cruise Club on 01243 871664 to ensure you hear about all of our latest cruise offers and in-store events.
Killarney*
Paris Afloat (43)
Loire Valley*
The number in brackets following the destination refers to the page number where this tour can be found in the brochure.
*Full details of these tours appear online at www.woodstravel.co.uk and in our 2025 Brochure. Please call 01243 871666 for your copy.
Cruising The Rhône (66)
Españia Verde Cruise (13)
Tyrol*
Glacier Express* Italian Cruise (62)
Four River Cruise (65)
Rhine in Flames (64) Luxembourg (59)
Valkenburg*
Connemara (11)
Cruising The Seine (61)
André Rieu*
Tulip River Cruise (51) Dutch Bulbs (50)
Norway Cruise (63)
Holiday Diary 2025/2026
Holiday Diary 2025/2026
Warner Hotels
Warner’s are renowned for the high quality of their properties, the beautiful locations, excellent evening entertainment, fine leisure facilities and the wealth of activities available at their adult only hotels. Join us on one of the following tours to discover all this for yourself!
Please note: Warner properties are usually spread over a large area, so some walking may be required between bedroom and restaurant / leisure facilities. Upgrades to Signature Rooms may be available with an extra charge. Number of single or sole use rooms at the published supplement are very limited. Entertainment / Leisure facilities provided are subject to change without prior notice. Warner now charge £10 per room for any special room requests. Tea/Coffee after dinner is not included. Warner no longer offer porterage as standard. Warner no longer accept cash payments.
*Details of these tours appear online at www.woodstravel.co.uk and in our 2025 Brochure. Please call 01243 871666 for your copy.
Treasures in Trust
2025
19 May Thoresby Hall*
02 Jun Holme Lacy*
21 Jul Heythrop Park*
28 Jul Bembridge Coast*
11 Aug Alvaston Hall*
15 Sep Littlecote House*
20 Oct Nidd Hall page 21
24 Oct Cricket St Thomas page 21
24 Nov Bodelwyddan Castle page 31
01 Dec Bembridge Coast page 31
23 Dec Cricket St Thomas page 33
2026
19 Jan Holme Lacy page 38
23 Feb Bodelwyddan Castle page 40
16 Mar Cricket St Thomas page 43
13 Apr Thoresby Hall page 53
These tours are specially designed for National Trust members to explore some of the wonderful houses and gardens throughout the UK. Non-members are also welcome of course.
2025
18 May Cheshire*
02 Jun Cambridgeshire*
14 Jul Norfolk*
08 Sep North Wales*
13 Oct Eastern Shires page 18
2026
01 Mar Cheshire page 40
19 Apr Suffolk page 55
Please note: National Trust members must bring a valid membership card with them in order to qualify for the discounted price. The discount cannot be given retrospectively.
*Full details of these tours appear online at www.woodstravel.co.uk and in our 2025 Brochure – please call 01243 871666 for your copy.
Cruising The Rivers of Europe
Over the years our tours with CroisiEurope have gone from strength to strength and we have explored many rivers across Europe with this excellent river cruise company. Join us and experience the wonderful accommodation, dining, entertainment and hospitality on board your floating hotels as you explore your chosen region at a leisurely pace. The wealth of optional excursions available mean that you can be busy discovering new locations or just relax as you cruise along the river.
2025
24 Jun Glacier Express & Swiss Cruise* 7 Days
03 Jul Cruising The Seine* 8 Days
23 Aug Four River Cruise* 8 Days
2026
18 Mar Paris Afloat 4 Days page 43
18 Apr Dutch Tulip River Cruise 5 Days page 51
27 May Cruising The Seine 8 Days page 61
01 Jul Rhine in Flames 7 Days page 64
06 Aug Four River Cruise 8 Days page 65
27 Sep Cruising The Rhône 9 Days page 66
Don’t forget! If there is a river cruise that you would like to take, but is not available in our brochure, our ABTA Travel Agency staff will be very happy to find and book the perfect cruise for you. Call 01243 870870
Mystery Tours
*Full details of these cruises appear online at www.woodstravel.co.uk and in our 2025 Brochure. Please call 01243 871666 for your copy.
Our three-day Mystery Tours represent exceptional value for money as we whisk you away for an enjoyable short break and include entrance to one attraction!
Our Mystery Hotels are a minimum of three-star standard. All rooms have private facilities, TV, telephone and hospitality tray.
26 October 2025 £259 G2573
15 March 2026 G2647
Please note: *FOR MYSTERY TOURS ONLY – The inclusive door to door service is available to those living inside the dotted line (as seen on the back cover of this brochure). If you live between the dotted and the solid line, there will be a taxi supplement of £35 per person.
MS GÉRARD SCHMITTER
A Warm Welcome to Newcomers
As a special treat to anyone who has not travelled with Woods within the last two years, we are offering two wonderful tours at an amazing reduced price.
This is your chance to experience our excellent door to door service, the high quality of our chosen hotels, the variety of excursions offered and the comfort and security of being looked after by Woods from your initial booking to the taxi returning you to your door.
We are sure that once you have been on one of these tours, we will see you travelling with Woods again and again!
Kings & Commoners
DAY 1: We travel to Kenilworth Castle and Gardens, once one of the country’s most formidable medieval fortresses, and later transformed into a spectacular palace by Robert Dudley to impress Elizabeth I. We continue to our hotel.
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Charlecote Park
Kenilworth Castle Shakespeare’s Schoolroom
Black Country Museum
Excursions as Listed
DAY 2: Today we visit Charlecote Park. Family owned for over 700 years, the estate has connections to Queen Elizabeth I and Shakespeare. We visit Warwick in the afternoon, or you might like to go back to the hotel to enjoy the facilities.
DAY 3: We explore Stratford-upon-Avon and Shakespeare's world, with an included visit to Shakespeare’s Schoolroom and Guildhall. Here, we follow in his footsteps, seeing where our greatest playwright was inspired by literature and theatre for the very first time, in an immersive and authentic experience that allows the atmosphere of this medieval building to engage visitors in its unique story.
DAY 4: We visit the Black Country Living Museum, a remarkable site offering a glimpse into 200 years of history with over 50 authentic shops, houses, and workshops.
DAY 5: After a leisurely breakfast, we make our way southwards, with suitable stops along the way, reaching the home area late afternoon.
Chesford Grange Hotel HHHH
Set in 17 acres of grounds, our four-star hotel near Kenilworth, has a Tudor-style exterior while inside the historic blends with contemporary style and modern comforts. Leisure facilities include a swimming pool, steam room, gym, and spa treatment rooms. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, hairdryer, safe, ironing facilities, and hospitality tray. The hotel has WIFI and a lift to some rooms. www.chesfordgrange.com
Kent: Call The Midwife & Leeds Castle
Dockyard Chatham Call The Midwife Tour Mount Ephraim Gardens Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We travel into Kent with suitable rest stops before arriving at Chatham and its Historic Naval Dockyard. This iconic location serves as the backdrop for the beloved series, “Call The Midwife”. We have a guided tour with exclusive access to the captivating Call The Midwife Exhibition, and free time to explore the museum. We then head on to our hotel in time for dinner.
DAY 2: This morning we visit Whitstable for free time to explore the town, with its rich maritime history and arts culture. Then we travel along the coastline to Mount Ephraim Gardens, a stunning example of Edwardian horticulture with arboretum, lake and water garden, and an ornamental grass maze.
DAY 3: Today we visit Rochester, where the awe-inspiring cathedral, historic castle, and quaint old town await your exploration. This afternoon at Leeds Castle, we find nearly 900 years of rich history, immersed in a lavish blend of period architecture, and cherished family heirlooms.
DAY 4: We visit Canterbury, where you might like to visit the magnificent cathedral, the Roman Museum or stroll in the Franciscan Gardens on the banks of the Great Stour. Spend all day exploring, or join your driver on a trip to the coastal resort of Herne Bay.
DAY 5: After breakfast we travel home.
Bridgewood Manor Hotel and Spa HHHH
This charming four-star hotel is renowned for its fine food and service. There is a restaurant, open-plan lounge and relaxing bar. Spa facilities include a gym, swimming pool, steam room, and sauna. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer, ironing facilities and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift. www.bridgewoodmanorhotel.com
LEEDS CASTLE
7 Days from £949
INCLUSIONS
Connemara, Galway & Magical Mayo
This gorgeous area of the Emerald Isle is filled with rolling hills, dramatic coastlines and mysterious lakes. Our base is Westport, a real Irish gem designed by James Wyatt in the 18th Century on the south-east corner of Clew Bay. Our excursions take us around Mayo and Connemara, and we finish with a glorious afternoon in Limerick. Our hotel in Westport stages entertainment every evening including music, bingo, quizzes and other themed events.
DAY 1: We travel by coach across country making suitable refreshment stops along the way, reaching our overnight hotel in North Wales in time for dinner.
DAY 2: An early start as we travel to Holyhead for our morning crossing to Dublin, having breakfast on board. We continue west into Co. Roscommon, and over to the west coast to the charming town of Westport, our base for the next four nights.
DAY 3: Why not begin your free day in Westport by taking full advantage of the hotel’s extensive leisure facilities, or enjoying a relaxing read in the conservatory. You could explore Westport, with its graceful tree-lined streets overlooking the Carrowbeg River, or visit Westport House, home to the Brown family for over 300 years, with a history of piracy entwined. (Entrance not included.)
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Tea & Scones Day 4
Kylemore Abbey
Corrib Princess Cruise
Excursions as Listed
DAY 4: We make our way to Galway City, a vibrant bohemian city situated along the Wild Atlantic Way. Uncover rich medieval history as you meander the colourful, cobbled streets, settle into a traditional pub or take a stroll along the promenade. This afternoon enjoy one of the highlights of the tour, a lovely 90minute lake cruise aboard the Corrib Princess, with full commentary and tasty tea and scones.
DAY 5: We head along the shores of Clew Bay, with breathtaking views of the islands and Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s Holy Mountain. We continue through the haunting beauty of the Doolough Valley, a long lake set amongst the Sheeffry Hills and the steep slopes of the Mweelrea Mountains to the village of Leenaun. We take the coast road to Killary Harbour, at the start of Ireland’s only fjord. We then have a visit to Kylemore Abbey, a NeoGothic castle mirrored in its own lake. Explore the restored rooms in the Abbey, the NeoGothic church and mausoleum, and the beautiful Victorian walled garden.
DAY 6: Leaving Westport, we travel south through County Clare and over the border to Limerick. We have free time for lunch in this vibrant city, before continuing south east through Tipperary and on to Waterford. Our final night is spent at the Dooley’s Hotel on The Quay.
DAY 7: An early start is required today as we board our ferry from Rosslare and enjoy breakfast on board as we travel back to Pembroke. Our drive home takes us through South Wales and into England. We return to the local area early evening.
Castlecourt Hotel HHHH (Ireland)
Our four-star hotel is centrally located in the town of Westport, County Mayo, and has an excellent leisure complex including swimming pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and gym. The bedrooms are tastefully decorated and are equipped with TV, telephone, WiFi, ironing facilities, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is a lift to all floors. www.castlecourthotel.ie
WESTPORT
GALWAY CITY
LIMERICK
Isles of Scilly
Come to the outstandingly beautiful and unspoilt archipelago lying just off the Cornish coast, and feel as though you have stepped into another world – a calmer, simpler world where you can enjoy the warm hospitality of the team at The Atlantic Inn. Experience fantastic walks, a climate that attracts rare birds, dolphins and seals, and all year round exotic plants and flowers.
DAY 1: We drive towards the West Country, making a suitable stop for lunch. We arrive at Land’s End for an afternoon flight to St Mary’s. You will be transferred to the hotel where you will receive a warm reception. St Mary’s is the largest of the isles and Hugh Town is the central hub with its cluster of shops, churches, post office, cafés, galleries, restaurants and pubs. It also has three lovely beaches in very close proximity.
DAYS 2 - 5: During your stay you enjoy:
• A full day guided walking tour on St Mary’s. The coastline features large stretches of deserted white sandy beaches, dramatic
rocky coves, amazing archaeological sites, and wonderful flora and fauna. If you do not wish to walk all day it is possible to join this tour in the morning and return to the hotel after lunch either on foot or by taxi (own expense).
• A full day to the island of Tresco by boat, with a visit to the world famous Tresco Abbey Gardens. This horticultural paradise hosts a spectacular collection of more than 20,000 exotic plants from all corners of the world – many of which cannot be grown anywhere else in Britain.
• Two free days to explore at your leisure. It may be possible to visit either St Agnes or St Martin’s. The first is Britain’s most southwesterly outpost with Bronze Age burial sites and dramatic seascapes. The second has mile upon mile of white sands backed with palm trees. Both have welcoming pubs and cafés in which to relax after your walks.
DAY 6: After breakfast we will be transferred to the airport for the short flight to Land’s End. A Woods coach will be waiting to return you to the local area and home.
Please note: This tour is not suitable for the less mobile. Good walking shoes are essential. Weather conditions and tide times may cause the order of the excursions to change without notice. Woods cannot be held responsible for any such changes.
5 Nights from £1399
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Boat Trip to Tresco
Tresco Abbey Gardens
Guided Tour of St Mary’s
Woods Tour Escort
Atlantic Inn HHH
Centrally located in Hugh Town on St Mary’s, the Atlantic Inn is on the water’s edge, overlooking the harbour. It is a delightful, rambling old inn, with plenty of character. All rooms have TV and hospitality tray. The hotel does not have a lift and there is only one ground floor room. The restaurant overlooks the waterfront and there is WiFi. www.atlanticinnscilly.co.uk
TRESCO
Exploring The Landscapes of España Verde – Escorted
On this escorted cruise on MS Borealis discover enchanting España Verde, or Green Spain, renowned for its majestic mountainous terrain. Over a captivating week, immerse yourself in extraordinary landscapes like the rugged Cantabrian Mountains and the awe-inspiring Picos de Europa, boasting dramatic scenery and diverse wildlife. You can excite your tastebuds with Rioja and pintxos in Basque Country, savour cider in Asturias and relish Galicia’s tasty empanadas. Architectural marvels await too, from the iconic Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao to the timeless beauty of the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral.
Please note: Prices and offers are subject to availability and based on two sharing an inside cabin unless otherwise stated. Prices correct at time of publication. This cruise is operated by Fred.Olsen Cruise Lines Ltd, for whom Woods Holidays act as agent. Full Ts & Cs are available at www.fredolsencruises.com. Door to door transfers by taxi and coach are included within the Woods pick up area. Escort, transport to and from the port and cocktail party are based on minimum numbers and can be withdrawn at any time and doesn’t form part of the FOCL cruise package and is not covered by the FOCL bond.
INCLUSIONS
Door to Door Transfers
En-suite Accommodation
Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Five Course à la Carte Dinner, Late Night Buffet, Self-Service Tea & Coffee
Varied Daytime Activities
Lectures & Talks
Swimming Pools, Jacuzzi & Gym
Choice of Evening Entertainment
Formal Welcome &/or Captain’s Drink Party & Gala Buffet
Exclusive Woods Cocktail Party Woods Tour Escort
Southampton – One day cruising – Getxo (Bilbao) overnight – Gijon – La Coruña –One day cruising – Southampton
7 Nights from £859
MS BOREALIS
Great Little Trains of Wales
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Welsh Highland Railway
Ffestiniog Railway
Portmeirion
Excursions as Listed
Caernarfon is our base for this magical journey into railway nostalgia in the Snowdonia National Park. We travel on the Welsh Highland Railway including the Aberglaslyn Pass, and we also take to the rails on old favourite Ffestiniog and visit the remarkable village of Portmeirion.
DAY 1: We travel west across England and into Wales, reaching our hotel in Caernarfon late afternoon.
DAY 2: Today we visit the famous Italianate village of Portmeirion. The setting for the TV show ‘The Prisoner’, the village stands on a rugged clifftop overlooking Cardigan Bay. We then transfer to Porthmadog to board the Ffestiniog Railway for a dramatically scenic ride over the mountains to Blaenau Ffestiniog. Our coach then takes us on a scenic drive via Betws-y-Coed.
DAY 3: A fabulous day today as we board the Welsh Highland Railway for a journey along its entire 25-mile length, travelling through the magnificent Aberglaslyn Pass and wonderfully dramatic Welsh scenery all the way to Porthmadog. We return to our hotel by coach.
DAY 4: After a leisurely breakfast we drive to The Royal Victoria Hotel in the shadow of Mount Snowdon for an included light lunch. This afternoon you can have free time in Caernarfon or take a ride on the Snowdon Mountain Railway to Clogwyn, a dramatic and beautiful journey, but very weather dependent.(Price £32pp. Request when booking.)
DAY 5: Leaving Caernarfon after breakfast, we travel homewards making suitable refreshment stops along the way.
Please note: Train timetables are not yet released, therefore order of days may change.
Celtic Royal Hotel HHH
The three-star Celtic Royal Hotel stands in the centre of Caernarfon, just a short walk from Caernarfon Castle. Leisure facilities include swimming pool, gym, sauna, bubble pool and steam room. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a bar, lounges, split level restaurant and a lift, although there are a few isolated steps. www.celtic-royal.co.uk
Delightful Dawlish
5 Days from £695
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Pre-Dinner Drinks
Bicton Park Botanical Gardens
Excursions as Listed
Our base for this tour is in the wooded area to the east of Dawlish known as Dawlish Warren. Relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings or join our driver on excursions to Dartmoor, Exmouth and Bicton Park Botanical Gardens.
DAY 1: We set off west, making suitable refreshment stops, and arriving at our hotel in Dawlish Warren in the afternoon. We have a drinks reception before dinner this, and every evening.
DAY 2: We spend the day in the wild and wonderful Dartmoor National Park, a wonderful sight in the autumn colours. Look out for the wild ponies as we drive across to Princetown and return via Tavistock.
DAY 3: We visit Bicton Park Botanical Gardens, set in Devon’s Otter Valley. The Grade I listed gardens are the product of almost 300 years of horticultural history and we have included the gardens, magnificent glass houses and a ride on the woodland railway. We finish our outing with some free time in Exmouth.
DAY 4: A free day to relax at our hotel or explore the area. Alternatively, join you driver on a half-day excursion to the pretty resort town of Torquay.
DAY 5: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we travel home via Dorchester, reaching the local area late afternoon.
Langstone Cliff Hotel HHH
Our three-star hotel is set in 19 acres of peaceful woodland in Dawlish Warren, overlooking the Exe Estuary with the beach close by via a public footpath. All bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has comfortable lounges, bar, restaurant, garden, terrace and both indoor and outdoor pools. The hotel has balcony rooms at a supplement and has a lift to most rooms. www.langstone-hotel.co.uk
LANGSTONE CLIFF HOTEL
WELSH HIGHLAND RAILWAY 5 Days from £615
Autumnal North Devon
Experience a captivating journey through culture, nature and history on our tour through the beautiful colours of autumn in Devon.
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Cream Tea Day 4
Arlington Court
Knightshayes
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We travel to North Devon making suitable refreshment stops along the way.
DAY 2: Today, our journey takes us to the charming coastal resort of Lynmouth, inviting you to wander its quaint narrow streets. In the afternoon, we'll explore the hidden treasure of Arlington Court, a regency house nestled on the fringes of Exmoor. Discover an extensive estate and an impressive collection of treasures including the National Trust Carriage Museum.
DAY 3: This morning, our destination is Bideford, offering opportunities to explore the vibrant artisan shops. In the afternoon, we visit Knightshayes, an amazing property on the edge of Tiverton, where the gardens are bursting with autumn colour. Explore the Victorian kitchen garden and the ground floor of the grand Gothic Revival house, a William Burges masterpiece.
DAY 4: Following a relaxed breakfast and the chance to enjoy a leisurely stroll in Barnstaple, we journey to the picturesque harbour town of Ilfracombe. There, you'll have the opportunity to savour lunch at your own pace, with numerous cafés and pubs to choose from. We return via Saunton Sands, with a short stop to take in the views and enjoy a cream tea at the Saunton Sands Hotel.
DAY 5: We set off for the Clarks Village complex in Street, featuring a diverse array of over 90 stores. Our return to the local area is expected in the late afternoon.
The Royal & Fortescue Hotel HHH
A former coaching inn right in the centre of Barnstaple, this historic threestar hotel combines old-world character and charm with the convenience of a modern hotel. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, hairdryer, and hospitality tray. The hotel has free WiFi and a lift to all floors. www.royalfortescue.co.uk
4 Days from £459
INCLUSIONS
Weymouth & Swanage
We return to the Hotel Rex in the seaside resort of Weymouth, with its beautiful beaches and idyllic leisure harbour, which nestles perfectly alongside the rugged Isle of Portland.
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Light Lunch Day 1
Athelhampton House
Swanage Railway
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We make our way west to Athelhampton House, one of the finest examples of a Tudor Manor House in England. Explore the glorious Great Hall, the Elizabethan gardens and enjoy a light sandwich lunch. We continue our journey to Weymouth and our hotel.
DAY 2: Today we visit Swanage and enjoy a return heritage train ride on the Swanage Railway to Norden through the Purbeck Hills with views of the ruins of Corfe Castle along the way. You then have some free time to stroll along the promenade at Swanage or visit the shops before we return to Weymouth.
DAY 3: In the morning we visit Dorchester, an historic market town with its roots in Roman times and close associations with Thomas Hardy. The rest of the day is free in Weymouth, or join your driver on a drive around the Isle of Portland.
DAY 4: We leave our hotel after breakfast and travel via Poole with a stop for refreshments. We arrive in the local area in the afternoon.
Please note: There is another Weymouth Tour in May 2025.
Hotel Rex HHH
A very warm welcome awaits you at the Hotel Rex, which offers the comforts and luxuries of a modern hotel yet still retains its original character and splendour. This three-star hotel is situated on the Esplanade overlooking the stunning golden sands of Weymouth Beach and the Jurassic Coastline beyond. All bedrooms have TV, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift to some rooms and there are some steps at the entrance. www.kingshotels.co.uk
SWANAGE
Highlands, Lochs & Great Trains
This wonderful Scottish tour allows you to experience two remarkable rail journeys –the Kyle Line from Dingwall to the Kyle of Lochalsh and a return journey on the world-famous Jacobite Steam Railway. Join us as we take to road and rail through the breathtaking scenery of the Highlands.
DAY 1: Leaving the south coast early in the morning we make our way north to Cumbria for our overnight stay.
DAY 2: After an early start, we cross the border and continue via the motorways around Glasgow, past Stirling and onto Perth for our lunch stop. The city sits on the banks of the River Tay, with elegant Georgian townhouses, cobbled streets and medieval spires. We then continue past Pitlochry, through the wonderful scenery of the Grampian Mountains, past Inverness before reaching Beauly and The Priory Hotel, for a six-night stay.
DAY 3: Today we head further north on a scenic trip along the Cromarty Firth, across the Dornoch Firth and up to Dunrobin Castle, one of Britain’s oldest continuously inhabited houses dating back to the early 1300s. The Castle resembles a French chateâu with fairytale spires and turrets, a shop, tearoom, and gardens inspired by Versailles, which are stunning in every season. If time allows, we will return via Bonar Bridge and back across the ‘Struie’ – the old road to Alness.
DAY 4: Leaving Beauly after breakfast, we travel by coach to Fort William to board the Jacobite Steam Train to enjoy one of the most remarkable rail journeys in the world and made even more famous as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. Beginning in the shadow of Ben Nevis, the train travels along the West Highland Line extension along the shores of Loch Eil and over the 21 arches of the dramatic Glenfinnan Viaduct. Enjoy unforgettable views across Highland terrain as we approach the coast and the busy fishing town of Mallaig. We have some free time in the town before hopping back aboard the train to see the journey from an entirely different perspective on the return journey. We return to our hotel by coach.
DAY 5: A free day to relax in Beauly. Alternatively, you could take the train into Inverness, a thriving city with an historic Old Town and a riverside setting. (Train travel not included.)
DAY 6: Today we enjoy one of the world’s finest coast to coast rail journeys as we travel from Dingwall to the Kyle of Lochalsh on a two-hour journey through some of Scotland’s most rugged and spectacular scenery. Keep an eye out for Ben Wyvis just after Dingwall and before the wild mountainscape between Lochs Luichart and Carron. Then through Plockton and on to the Kyle of Lochalsh with the Isle of Skye just over the water. After some free time, we are met by our coach for an equally picturesque
9 Days from £1349
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Light Lunch Day 7
Jacobite Train
Kyle Line Train
Dunrobin Castle
Excursions as Listed
journey back to Beauly through Glen Sheil and Glenmoriston, and along Loch Ness.
DAY 7: A day out in the glorious Cairngorms as we travel across to Grantown-on-Spey for a light lunch at The Grant Arms Hotel. We then head to Aviemore, a charming town surrounded by the majestic scenery of the National Park.
DAY 8: Leaving after breakfast, we travel south passing Pitlochry and Perth on our way down to the border. We continue through Northumbria to our overnight hotel in the Newcastle area.
DAY 9: After breakfast we continue southwards making suitable refreshment stops along the way. We reach the local area early evening.
Priory Hotel HHH
Our three-star hotel is ideally located to the northwest of Inverness along the shores of the Beauly Firth, in the attractive village square of Beauly. It is a traditional building but has been tastefully modernised and has a pleasant open plan dining area and a lift. Bedrooms are equipped with TV, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. www.priory-hotel.com
Please note: This tour necessitates some long days of coach travel. Not all of Dunrobin Castle is accessible to those with limited mobility.
JACOBITE STEAM TRAIN
DUNROBIN CASTLE
Gorgeous Guernsey by Air
Nestled in the Bay of St Malo, the Channel Islands are a peaceful haven from modern stresses. Guernsey, the second largest island, is small, friendly and is fringed with rocky cliff walks on one side and wide sandy beaches on the other.
DAY 1: We travel by Woods coach to Southampton Airport for our flight to Guernsey. On arrival you are met by a local coach and transferred to our hotel in the Parish of Vale.
DAY 2: Today join your local driver for a half day excursion to see some of this beautiful island. At the end of our tour, you will have the option of returning to the hotel at lunchtime, or being dropped in St Peter Port for some exploration or retail therapy. If you choose this option, you will need to return to our hotel independently by bus or taxi (not included).
DAY 3: A free day. Your Woods Tour Escort is on hand to give you some ideas for where to visit and what to see. Our hotel is on the main bus route into St Peter Port and all around the island.
DAY 4: This morning we board the catamaran from St Peter Port to the small island of Herm. There will be time to walk to Shell Beach or relax in the village of Herm Harbour, where there are a few restaurants, shops and a tavern. Depending on tides, there may be some steps to negotiate either on boarding in St Peter Port or on the return journey mid-afternoon.
DAY 5: A second free day. Your Woods Tour Escort may be able to arrange an optional visit to the peaceful island of Sark (not included).
DAY 6: Depending on flight times, you may have a few hours to stroll along the beach before we are transferred by local coach to the airport. At Southampton your Woods coach will be waiting to bring you back home.
Please note: On this tour, Woods Travel act as retail agents for Destination Specialists (ATOL 9503). The holiday can only be booked directly with Woods Travel, not through agents.
Peninsula Hotel HHHH
The Peninsula is a firm favourite with Woods clients and the directors, who return to this perfectly located hotel again and again. Sitting in its own grounds on a grassy peninsula leading to a sandy bay on the north-west coast, the hotel commands wonderful views. A regular and scenic bus service connects you with St Peter Port, the island capital. There is a spacious lounge, bar, pleasant restaurant, and there is a lift. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. www.peninsula.gg
A tour incorporating three wonderful National Trust properties in Lincolnshire and Derbyshire. We have secured many sole use rooms.
DAY 1: We travel northwards, stopping in St Albans before continuing to our hotel in Marston.
DAY 2: We journey west to the Hardwick Estate (NT), which is made up of stunning houses and beautiful landscapes that have been created over the centuries. Hardwick Hall dates from the late 16th Century, and contains many Elizabethan treasures.
DAY 3: Our visit today is quite different to our usual National Trust properties - The Workhouse, Southwell (NT), the most complete workhouse in existence. Built in 1824 as a place of last resort for the destitute, it now gives a fascinating insight into how society has tackled social welfare through time.
DAY 4: This morning we make our way to Woolsthorpe Manor (NT), birthplace of Sir Isaac Newton, where we enjoy a guided tour. We move on to Lincoln in time for lunch, where you can explore the historic city with its beautiful cathedral, interesting shops and labyrinth of alleyways.
DAY 5: Departing after breakfast, we travel to Stamford with free time to explore, before continuing our journey and arriving in the local area late afternoon.
Please note: This tour is not suitable for the less mobile as some of the properties have many steps.
The Barn Hotel & Spa HHH
Our three-star charming hotel is set in the beautiful countryside of Grantham and has been refurbished to an excellent standard. The hotel has lounge, bar, pleasant restaurant and a health club which boasts swimming pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi. Bedrooms have TV, (no telephone),WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift to some rooms. www.theoldebarnhotel.co.uk
Cumbria & The Lakes
Travel through gorgeous autumn colours and immerse yourself in the outstanding scenery of the English Lake District.
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Light Lunch Day 4
Ullswater Cruise
Holker Hall & Gardens Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We travel to Cumbria, arriving in Kendal late afternoon.
DAY 2: A wonderfully scenic trip through the Lakes, passing Grasmere on the way to Keswick. After free time here, we continue to Pooley Bridge at the top of Ullswater for a one-hour cruise with Ullswater Steamers down to Glenridding. We return to Kendal over the famous Kirkstone Pass.
DAY 3: A free day in Kendal, or join your driver on a journey into the Yorkshire Dales National Park, through the beautiful countryside of the Dales via Garsdale to the market town of Hawes. From here it is south with views of the Ribblehead Viaduct and back to our hotel.
DAY 4: Today we drive along England’s largest lake – Windermere, before visiting Holker Hall, a magnificent Victorian mansion steeped in history and surrounded by glorious gardens. We have an included light lunch at the Courtyard Café and time to explore.
DAY 5: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we make our way south to get home.
Riverside Hotel HHH
On the banks of the River Kent in the centre of Kendal, our three-star hotel was once an 18th-century tannery and has excellent views from the first-floor restaurant and many of the bedrooms. Leisure includes indoor swimming pool, gym, sauna and steam room. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, ironing facilities, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift, but there are some steps throughout. www.riversidekendal.co.uk
Explore the wonderful coastlines and countryside of our southernmost county as the warm colours of autumn sweep across the scenery. Our base at the Rosemundy House Hotel is a favourite with Woods customers and the area has become famous as the BBC location of Poldark’s Nampara Valley.
DAY 1: We travel through Dorset and Devon with a stop in the small and historic city of Exeter for a refreshment break, arriving in St Agnes late afternoon.
DAY 2: We visit Padstow, its narrow streets leading past pretty pastel houses to another picturesque harbour. Look out for the 16thcentury courthouse of Sir Walter Raleigh and the fantastic medieval architecture. Our afternoon is in Truro, Cornwall’s only city and home to many independent shops and cafés, the Royal Cornwall Museum and the magnificent cathedral with Gothic architecture, green spire and fine rose window.
DAY 3: A morning visit to Falmouth, with its
fascinating maritime heritage, pretty gardens and free Art Gallery. The rest of the day is free to relax in our hotel or to explore St Agnes. This picturesque village lies in a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is close to spectacular coastal paths and sheltered beaches, although some of these will be challenging to those with limited mobility.
DAY 4: We are joined by a local guide today as we explore the gorgeous scenery of the west coast, with views of St Michael’s Mount and a stop in Penzance for our lunch. This afternoon we visit the delightful harbour town of St Ives, one of Cornwall’s best-loved resorts with its cobbled streets, winding alleyways, quaint fishermen’s cottages and historic harbour. The town is home to the Tate Gallery St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden (entry not included). We return to our hotel late afternoon.
DAY 5: Our day is spent at the marvellous Eden Project, a fantastic development where huge biomes house the largest ever rainforest in captivity with a breath-taking variety of plants, exhibitions and thirty acres of stunning outdoor garden displays. You can also see world-class sculpture and art and enjoy some delicious locally sourced food in the café. We return to St Agnes mid-afternoon.
DAY 6: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we travel east, making suitable refreshment stops along the way, and reaching the local area late afternoon.
6 Days from £695
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Guided Tour Day 4
Eden Project Excursions as Listed
Rosemundy House Hotel HHH
This delightful and elegant hotel has been tastefully extended and is set in its own secluded gardens and woodland, and only 100 yards from the main street of the unspoilt village of St Agnes. All rooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is no lift, but some ground floor rooms are available. www.rosemundy.co.uk
PADSTOW
FALMOUTH
EDEN PROJECT
ST MICHAEL’S MOUNT
Autumn Rutland & Shuttleworth
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Barnsdale Gardens
Burghley House
Join us on this visit to the smallest county in England. Rutland has beautiful market towns, glorious gardens bursting with fiery autumn colours, and one of the largest man-made lakes in Europe.
Shuttleworth Collection
Swiss Garden
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We make our way north to Rockingham, making suitable refreshment stops along the way. We reach our hotel with plenty of time to relax before dinner.
DAY 2: This morning we drive to Stamford, where we find over 600 listed buildings, delightful shops, and an abundance of cafés and pubs in which to have some lunch. Our afternoon is spent at Burghley House, one of the largest and grandest houses of the Elizabethan age.
DAY 3: We set off into Rutland and the historic market town of Oakham, which boasts a Norman Castle and the Rutland County Museum (both free to enter). We have views of Rutland Water as we move on to Barnsdale Gardens, familiar to many TV viewers as home to the late Geoff Hamilton and Gardeners World. The gardens comprise 37 individual gardens within eight acres.
DAY 4: Our day is spent at Old Warden Park exploring the Shuttleworth Collection and Swiss Garden. Six hangers house working vintage aircraft –some the sole survivors of their type, veteran buses, motorcycles, steam engines and farm machinery. The Swiss Garden was created in the 1820s and is a delightful Regency and Victorian layered garden, with a woodland walk, peacocks and a sculpture garden.
DAY 5: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we travel homewards, reaching the local area and our taxis late afternoon.
Rockingham Forest Hotel HHH
Our modern three-star hotel is pleasantly located between the pretty Northamptonshire villages of Rockingham and Corby, and its rural setting gives easy access to the countryside and all the attractions on this tour. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, ironing facilities, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is no lift and bedrooms are on the ground or first floor. www.rockinghamforest.co.uk
Austen’s England
HAPPYBIRTHDAYJANE!
5 Days from £619
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
For the 250th birthday year of Jane Austen, we are offering a chance to follow in her footsteps to see the places where her best-loved books were inspired and written, and some beautiful parts of the Cotswolds.
Jane Austen Museum
Bath Guided Tour
Heritage Railway
Bowood House & Garden
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We travel across country to Chawton, where we visit Jane Austen’s charming red-brick cottage, now a fascinating museum of her life with an unparalleled collection of treasures. We then continue to Swindon and our hotel.
DAY 2: After a leisurely breakfast, we visit Devizes, with more than 500 listed buildings and a large market place at its heart. We continue to Bowood House, where the fine Georgian building is surrounded by the Italian-inspired Terrace Garden, Walled Garden and the 100 acres of beautifully landscaped ‘Capability’ Brown Parkland are bursting with autumn colour.
DAY 3: This morning we visit Cheltenham, known for its fine shopping and elegant promenade. We then board the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway for a journey through the Cotswolds countryside to the honey-stone streets of Broadway, where we have a little free time before returning to our hotel by coach.
DAY 4: A day in the glorious Georgian spa resort of Bath, where a local guide takes us on a tour of the sights by coach and on foot, including places pertinent to Jane’s life and literature here.
DAY 5: Departing after breakfast, we stop in Winchester, where you might like to visit the Cathedral and Jane’s final resting place, or The Arc, the city’s arts centre which is offering an exhibition called ‘Beyond The Bonnets’ (entrances not included). We continue to the local area and home.
Blunsdon House Hotel HHHH
Our four-star hotel is set in 20 acres of beautiful Wiltshire countryside close to the village of Blunsdon St Andrew. The hotel has restaurant, bar, swimming pool, steam room, sauna, Jacuzzi and gym. Bedrooms are equipped with TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift. www.blunsdonhouse.co.uk
BOWOOD HOUSE
Warner’s Nidd Hall
Visit York, Harrogate, RHS Harlow Carr, the Yorkshire Dales National Park, and enjoy the fabulous activities and entertainment that Warner do so well.
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Entertainment & Activity
Programme
York Guided Tour
RHS Harlow Carr
Excursions as Listed
Please see notes on page 8
DAY 1: We travel north stopping in Stamford en route. We arrive at our hotel near Harrogate late afternoon.
DAY 2: We spend the morning at RHS Harlow Carr, gorgeously designed to fit in with the Yorkshire landscape and ablaze with autumn colour. In the afternoon you could visit Harrogate, famous for its spa, fine architecture, excellent shopping and Betty’s Café Tearooms or return to enjoy the leisure facilities at Nidd Hall.
DAY 3: A day out in the ancient city of York, beginning with a walking and driven tour. The afternoon is free to explore the tangle of quaint cobbled streets and the beauty of York Minster. You could also visit the Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum or just enjoy the shopping! (Entrance is not included.)
DAY 4: Take a morning drive into the Yorkshire Dales National Park, with a stop in Skipton, an historic town with its own castle, independent shops and pleasant cafés. Your afternoon is free at Nidd Hall.
DAY 5: Departing after breakfast, we head home via Lincolnshire and the Dartford Crossing making refreshment stops en route. We arrive home early evening.
Warner’s Nidd Hall
Set in 45 acres of verdant parkland, sculpted gardens and stepped terraces, our four-star-standard hotel has at its heart a magnificent Grade II listed mansion built in the 1820s. Leisure facilities include a 20m indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room and fitness studio. There is also tennis, a putting green, and more activities than can be listed here! There is live nightly entertainment in the Pavilion Theatre. Bedrooms, situated in the new wing, have TV, telephone, hairdryer, ironing facilities and hospitality tray. There is WiFi and a lift. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk
Warner’s Cricket St Thomas
4 Days from £539
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Entertainment & Activity Programme
Donkey Sanctuary
Excursions as Listed
Please see notes on page 8
A beautiful hotel in a stunning location in Somerset, Warner’s adult-only Cricket St Thomas offers the perfect autumn break away. Enjoy lots of free time at the hotel to make the most of Warner’s wonderful mix of daily activities and nightly entertainment, whilst also exploring some of the local area on excursions including Clarks Shopping Village or Glastonbury, and Sidmouth or the Donkey Sanctuary.
DAY 1: We make our way to Dorchester for some free time to get refreshments before continuing to Chard where our hotel is located. After check-in, have some time to settle in and get ready for dinner. There is entertainment every evening of your stay.
DAY 2: Spend the morning at Clarks Shopping Village Designer Outlet where you might find a bargain, or visit the historic, yet quirky, town of Glastonbury. The afternoon is free at the hotel to enjoy the many activities and facilities available, or to relax in the house and grounds which were the setting for TV’s ‘To The Manor Born’.
DAY 3: After breakfast, join the coach to the beautiful Regency town of Sidmouth. Spend some free time in the town, or head to the Donkey Sanctuary where hundreds of rescued donkeys are lovingly looked after. Don’t forget to look out for Drizzle – Woods’ own sponsored and much loved donkey.
DAY 4: Leaving Chard, we travel to Salisbury for shopping and time for lunch. The town has a wonderful cathedral, many individual shops and pleasant places to eat. We then make our way along the coast toward home.
Warner’s Cricket St Thomas
The Regency style elegant mansion of Cricket St Thomas is set within glorious, landscaped gardens, and is the centre for our four-star-standard hotel. Bedrooms, located in the Walled Garden or the Courtyard, are spacious and comfortable with TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer, ironing facilities and hospitality tray. Facilities include croquet, French boules, bowls, air rifle shooting, indoor swimming pool, spa, sauna and steam rooms. There is a lift to some rooms, and some walking is required on site. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk
Scotland’s Enchanted Forest
Join us on this wonderful tour like no other, visiting the Enchanted Forest, renowned as Scotland’s premier sound and light experience! We are based in Perth and spend our days exploring the beautiful autumn scenery, visiting Edinburgh, New Lanark Mill and Scone Palace, and tasting a little shortbread and whisky along the way.
DAY 1: A fairly early start is required today to make our way up to our overnight hotel in the Cumbria area.
DAY 2: We continue northwards and cross the border into Scotland, via Moffat, and up to New Lanark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the picturesque River Clyde. Have a look around this unique 18th-century mill village, explore the visitor centre and enjoy an included light lunch. We continue our journey to Perth arriving in time for our dinner, and our four-night stay.
DAY 3: After breakfast, we travel into the glorious autumn countryside to Crieff, where you will need to purchase snacks and sandwiches for our day of scenic driving. We then visit the spiritual home of Famous Grouse and Glenturret, where we have a guided tour of the distillery along with a dram or two. Now we begin our gorgeous scenic drive along the shores of Loch Earn, through Glen Ogle, along Loch Tay and back to Perth via Glen Almond – bursting with autumn colours and stunning views.
DAY 4: This morning we visit Scone Palace, poised above the River Tay and housing an outstanding collection of antiques, paintings and rare artifacts. The Palace stands in magnificent grounds and has been the seat of parliaments and the crowning place of kings, including Macbeth and Robert The Bruce. We return to Perth for a little free time and an early dinner before driving up to Pitlochry to enjoy the Enchanted Forest. With dazzling visuals and innovative designs set to music, explore the stunning autumn woodland setting of Faskally Woods as it is transformed by this spectacular sound and light show!
DAY 5: This morning is free in Perth. You might like to explore the public parks, museums, stroll through the cobbled streets with Georgian townhouses and medieval spires, or along the banks of The Tay. In the afternoon we visit the Black Watch Museum, housed in the historic Balhousie Castle, which tells the story of Scotland’s premier Highland Regiment. We have included a short tour, tea and shortbread. For those who don’t wish to walk to the museum, transport will be provided.
DAY 6: Travelling south, we cross the Firth of Forth and reach Edinburgh. We have some free time for your own exploration, before continuing across the border to our overnight hotel in the Newcastle area.
7 Days from £839
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Light Lunch Day 2
Tea & Shortbread Day 5
Enchanted Forest
New Lanark Mill
Distillery Tour & Tasting
Scone Palace
Black Watch Museum Tour Excursions as Listed
DAY 7: We make our way home, with suitable refreshment stops along the way, reaching the local area in the evening.
Please note: There will be bus transfers from the centre of Pitlochry to the Enchanted Forest site. There is then a designated route which should take between 30 and 50 minutes to walk around (1.8km). It has some uneven ground and steepish slopes, so is unsuitable for the less mobile.
Salutation Hotel Perth HHH
The 17th-century hotel is centrally located within the town’s main shopping area and provides a welcoming atmosphere, good food and comfortable accommodation. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, ironing facilities, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift, but some steps throughout.
www.strathmorehotels-thesalutation.com
NEW LANARK MILL
SCONE PALACE
Blackpool Illuminations
5 Days from £655
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Join us for this wonderful tour of the famous Blackpool Illuminations, which every autumn transform a five-mile stretch of the promenade into a breath-taking blaze of colourful lights in spectacular designs.
Blackpool Tower Ballroom
Liverpool Guided Tour
Pendle Witch Tour
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: Leaving the local area early in the morning, we travel north to St Annes-on-Sea making suitable refreshment stops along the way and arriving in time for dinner.
DAY 2: Take the day to explore Blackpool, where we have included entry to Blackpool Tower Ballroom and the Circus. Tonight, we take a leisurely drive through the amazing illuminations for which the town is so rightly famous.
DAY 3: Today we travel up the Ribble Valley to Clitheroe, where we meet our award-winning guide Simon Entwistle. Simon will take us for a tour through Pendle Witch Country including Barrowford, Worston and Chipping, enthralling us with stories of the trials and local legend.
DAY 4: We spend our final day in the north in Liverpool, beginning with a driven guided tour of this fascinating city. The rest of the day is free for your own exploration.
DAY 5: Departing after breakfast, we head south and arrive in the local area late afternoon. We will make stops for refreshments along the way.
Clifton Park Hotel HHH
This privately owned three-star hotel is centrally located in the stylish seaside town of St Annes-on-Sea, one mile from leafy Lytham and three miles from bustling Blackpool. Leisure facilities include swimming pool, Jacuzzi and gym. Bedrooms have TV, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift to some rooms, but there are some steps throughout. www.cliftonpark.co.uk
Cotswold Wildlife & STEAM
A new look at a favourite destination, we return to the magnificent Cotswolds with a tour full of animals, cities, gardens, and history. There are many sole use rooms on this holiday.
DAY 1: We start by making our way cross country to Salisbury for free time to explore the city, get lunch, take in a park or see the cathedral before we continue to our hotel.
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Cotswold Wildlife Park
STEAM Museum
Excursions as Listed
DAY 2: Today we take the short drive into Swindon to visit STEAM, the Great Western Railway Museum. This tells the story of the railway’s creation by Brunel, and the people who made it a reality, and the majestic engines on display. We then have time to get refreshments and explore the nearby designer outlet.
DAY 3: This morning, we journey through the Wiltshire scenery to the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens with plenty of time to visit the many birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and primates who live there, see the penguin talk or roam through “theatre with plants” in the walled garden. We depart mid-afternoon.
DAY 4: After breakfast we check out of our hotel and travel to Winchester with time to get lunch and explore before we head for home.
Doubletree by Hilton Swindon HHHH
Set in the Wiltshire countryside, this comfortable and friendly hotel is a great location for us to explore this beautiful part of Britain. The hotel has a restaurant, bar and gym. The rooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer, tea & coffee making and ironing facilities. The hotel has a lift to all rooms and WiFi in public areas. www.hilton.co.uk
Join us for a holiday with a difference as our seaside hotel transforms into a luxury cruise liner for a five-day land-based cruise to remember! Hosted by the charming Brunswick Hotel, you can expect the warm welcome, great service, exciting food, and enticing entertainment of a European cruise ship, all whilst ‘docked’ in delightful Shanklin.
Each day is set in a different country as themed decorations and props, along with ‘local’ cuisine and unique entertainment, provide the essence and spirit of each destination. You are welcome to join the locals with a themed outfit or accessory if you wish! And of course, our excursions by coach are also included to take in the best of the local area.
DAY 1: Arrive at Port We travel to Portsmouth and our ferry to Fishbourne (on a real ship!), arriving at M.V. Brunswick late afternoon. Board the ‘ship at port’ with a glass of fizz whilst the crew take care of your luggage. After settling in, re-join the group for a delicious dinner whilst the crew make their introduction, before the exciting ‘on deck’ musical entertainment gets you dancing as we set sail for Spain!
DAY 2: Spain Breakfast is served with an additional Spanish flair, before we take a tour around the western side of the Island, taking in Isle of Wight Pearl and Godshill, one of the prettiest and most photographed villages on the island, before heading back to ‘Spanish’ Shanklin. Enjoy a Spanish themed dinner and entertainment, before we set sail for our next port of call – Italy!
DAY 3: Italy Wake up in sunny ‘Italy! Our excursion today is a morning visit to Osborne House and Gardens, Queen Victoria’s palace by the sea. Marvel at the Victorian opulence and extravagant interiors, and gain insight into royal life as you see Victoria and Albert’s private
rooms, filled with their own possessions. Enjoy the beautiful grounds before we return to our hotel mid-afternoon, to prepare for a traditional Italian celebration! Italian food and cabaret entertainment will be aplenty, plus lots of party spirit.
DAY 4: Greece Enjoy of touch of Greek style at breakfast before we travel back in time. From Havenstreet Station we take a scenic ride on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway. The locomotives and carriages have been lovingly restored to pristine condition and the station houses a shop, café and museum. We return with time to explore Shanklin. Tonight, we enjoy a Greek themed dinner and entertainment.
DAY 5: Cast the home anchor After a final full English breakfast we disembark the good ship Brunswick and make our way to the delightful Wildheart Animal Sanctuary where all manner of beasts, particularly big cats, are lovingly cared for, having been rescued from all around the world. After lunch we head home by ferry from Fishbourne.
5 Days from £509
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Themed Nightly Entertainment
Wildheart Animal Sanctuary
IOW Railway
Osborne House
Excursions as Listed
Brunswick Hotel HHH
‘M.V. Brunswick’, our land-based cruise ship, is located just above the Shankin Esplanade and offers a friendly and relaxing stay with gardens overlooking the Channel. The hotel has indoor heated pool and sauna, games room and well stocked bar with a comfortable lounge for our evening entertainment. There is no lift, but several ground floor rooms with walk in shower are available on request. Each ‘cabin’ in this ‘vessel’ has TV, WiFi, hairdryer, ironing facilities and hospitality tray. www.thebrunswickshanklin.com
Please note: The programme is yet to be finalised and so the themes and entertainment described above may vary.
ISLE OF WIGHT STEAM RAILWAY
OSBORNE HOUSE
Tenby & Pembrokeshire
We are pleased to return to the picturesque town of Tenby, with its colourful houses leading down to the pretty harbour, at the newly refurbished Imperial Hotel.
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Cream Tea Day 4
National Park Discovery Centre
National Wool Museum
Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre
St Davids Cathedral
DAY 1: We travel across England and cross the border into Wales, making suitable refreshment stops along the way. We arrive at our hotel late afternoon.
Excursions as Listed
DAY 2: We spend our day in the west in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, first visiting the historic town of Pembroke, dominated by its magnificent Norman Castle. We continue to the tiny city of St. Davids, where we visit the impressive cathedral. Our final stop is at Oriel Y Parc, the National Park Discovery Centre, which hosts numerous exhibitions, a gift shop and café.
DAY 3: Enjoy a free day in Tenby. Alternatively, have a half day in Tenby before joining your driver in the afternoon for a journey across the bluestone Preseli Mountains and along the Teifi Valley to Cenarth. This charming conservation village is home to the National Wool Museum.
DAY 4: Today we return to Pembroke to visit the Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre, in the Royal Dockyard Chapel, the museum celebrates the town’s maritime, military and cultural heritage. We return via Saundersfoot, where we have an included cream tea in beautiful surroundings.
DAY 5: We say farewell to Wales and make our way home with a stop in Cardiff to get some refreshments, arriving back in the local area early evening.
Imperial Hotel
In a stunning clifftop location, overlooking Carmarthen Bay and the Pembrokeshire coastline, our three-star-standard hotel is close to the centre of Tenby. The hotel has restaurant with bar and lounge area. Bedrooms have TV, WiFi, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel has a lift but has some steps throughout. www.imperialhoteltenby.co.uk
5
INCLUSIONS
Festive Cheer in Sidmouth
We return once again to the wonderful Royal York & Faulkner for this festive break!
Excursions as Listed SIDMOUTH
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Donkey Sanctuary
Exeter Cathedral Tour
Relax in this beautiful, unspoilt Regency town overlooking the waters of Lyme Bay, visit Torquay, Exeter and the famous Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary. In the evenings enjoy Christmas entertainment, dancing and festive fare.
DAY 1: We make our way west, stopping in Bournemouth for lunch, and arriving at our hotel in the afternoon to be greeted with mulled wine and mince pies. Dinner tonight is followed by live entertainment.
DAY 2: Today we travel further west to the lively seaside resort of Torquay, where you can indulge in some Christmas shopping, enjoy a bite to eat or just stroll around the harbour. This evening, we celebrate with a sherry before a traditional Christmas Dinner followed by music and dancing in the Faulkner Bar.
DAY 3: Enjoy a free day in Sidmouth or join your driver for a mystery drive in the morning and/or a visit to the famous Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary in the afternoon. Dinner tonight is followed by a musical performance from a local pianist.
DAY 4: This morning, we travel to Exeter, where we have a guided tour of the majestic cathedral before free time to explore the charming city and shops. We have afternoon tea and Christmas cake at our hotel and have a festive quiz after dinner.
DAY 5: Departing after breakfast we travel east, with suitable stops along the way. We return you to your homes in the afternoon.
Please note: The order of days/entertainment may change.
Royal York & Faulkner Hotel HHH
A magnificent Regency building, enjoying an unrivalled position on Sidmouth's elegant esplanade, this family-run hotel is ideally located directly overlooking the sea and adjacent to the picturesque town centre. The Royal York & Faulkner has a reputation for offering great hospitality, service and comfort, as well as excellent food. All rooms offer TV, telephone, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is WiFi and a lift, although there are some steps in the hotel. www.royalyorkhotel.co.uk
TENBY
5 Days from £589
Thursford Christmas Spectacular
Join us on a visit to The Thursford Spectacular, a world-renowned Christmas variety show held annually in an otherwise sleepy village in Norfolk. Known for its extravagant performances, it combines stunning music, dance, and theatre with a magical festive atmosphere. Featuring a huge cast of talented singers, dancers, and musicians – many from West End stages - this fast-moving three-hour celebration of the season artfully combines famous chart-toppers performed with more traditional carols and year-round favourites.
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Thursford Show Ticket
Bure Valley Railway (16 & 23 Nov Tours)
Blickling Hall (01 Dec Tour)
Norwich Guided Tour & Cathedral (10 Dec Tour)
Excursions as Listed
The Spectacular has become a highlight of the holiday season, offering audiences a memorable experience with its blend of traditional Christmas themes and dazzling entertainment, drawing visitors from all over the world. Woods are proud to host four Thursford holidays this year, each lasting four days and featuring a different hotel and itinerary.
Le Strange Arms Hotel HHHH
In the village of Old Hunstanton, with lawns that stretch down to the seashore, this hotel promises old world charm complemented by personal service. Next door is the Ancient Mariner Inn, renowned for its choice of real ales and wines. The 40 en-suite bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift, but not to every room. This tour includes a journey on the Bure Valley Railway. www.lestrangearms.co.uk
Wensum Valley Hotel HHH
Our hotel is situated in 350 acres of the beautiful Wensum Valley, near Norwich. The hotel boasts the comfortable Valley restaurant, bar and lounge, WiFi, an indoor swimming pool, sauna, spa bath, steam room and gym. All bedrooms have TV, telephone, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is no lift, but plenty of ground floor rooms. Bedrooms are accessed by a covered walkway (not enclosed). This tour includes a journey on the Bure Valley Railway. www.wensumvalleyhotel.co.uk
Dukes Head Hotel HHHH
Our four-star Georgian hotel overlooks the marketplace in the heart of King's Lynn old town, and combines elegant charm and modern amenities. There is a pleasant restaurant serving local produce, a bar and lounge. Each of the 79 individually styled bedrooms has TV, telephone, WiFi, safe, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. There is a lift to most rooms. The itinerary includes a visit to Blickling Hall. www.dukesheadhotel.com
Dunston Hall Hotel HHHH
This majestic, Elizabethan-style mansion, built in 1859 and lovingly restored to its former glory is set in 150 acres of beautiful wooded Norfolk parkland.
All bedrooms have TV, telephone, hairdryer, and hospitality tray. The hotel also has a state-of-the-art gym, indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room, WiFi and a lift to most rooms. The itinerary includes guided tours of Norwich Cathedral and around the city. www.dunstonhallhotel.co.uk
Antiques with David Harper
5 Days from £569
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Lunch Day 2
Hemswell Antiques with David Harper
Excursions as Listed
Fresh from appearances on Bargain Hunt, Antiques Road Trip and Flog It!, David Harper will join you on an exclusive exploration of all things antique!
DAY 1: We travel northwards, stopping in St Albans before continuing to our hotel on the outskirts of Marston.
DAY 2: Today we visit Stamford, with its medieval streets, Georgian architecture, and over 600 well-preserved listed stone buildings. Explore the quaint alleyways, cobbled streets and pretty squares, reconvening for an included lunch at a local eatery.
DAY 3: Our highlight! We spend our day at Hemswell Antiques Centres near Gainsborough, home to Europe’s largest selection of antiques and collectables. We meet our host – David Harper, who will show us around, answer questions and offer advice (even be your personal shopper!) Plus, David will give us the news from the antiques business and behind the scenes gossip from the BBC Antiques Shows! You can even take part in your own Antiques Bargain Hunt…you might win one of his books! There are two great cafés on site in which to purchase lunch and take tea breaks.
DAY 4: We visit Lincoln, where you might like to visit the cathedral, which dominates the city skyline and is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. You could also walk around the castle walls, explore the medieval quarter, the interesting shops and a labyrinth of alleyways.
DAY 5: Departing after breakfast, we have a stop in Saffron Walden, before continuing our journey and arriving in the local area late afternoon.
The Barn Hotel & Spa HHH
Our three-star charming hotel is set in the beautiful countryside of Grantham and has been refurbished to an excellent standard. The hotel has lounge, bar, pleasant restaurant and a health club which boasts swimming pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi. Bedrooms have TV, (no telephone),WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift to some rooms. www.theoldebarnhotel.co.uk
Belgrave Sands Turkey & Tinsel
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Cream Tea Day 4
Buckfast Abbey
Plymouth Gin Distillery
Excursions as Listed
We are thrilled to offer this festive break at The Belgrave Sands Hotel, a haven of style and good service. Relax and enjoy Torquay, visit Dartmoor and Exeter, and be spoilt with a holiday filled with festive fun.
DAY 1: (Christmas Eve) We make our way west, making suitable refreshment stops along the way and arriving at our hotel in time for tea and ‘festive treats’ in the lounge. An aperitif will be served before dinner in the Seasons Restaurant, which is accompanied by piano music.
DAY 2: (Christmas Day) Santa visits us early in the morning, and then you have free time to enjoy this elegant resort town. At 5pm in the hotel there will be prize bingo, and tonight’s traditional Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings, is followed by festive entertainment.
DAY 3: (Boxing Day) Today we drive up to Buckfast Abbey on the edge of Dartmoor, before visiting Plymouth and the excellent Gin Distillery. There will be an introduction to the process, the botanicals used and, of course, a tasting. Back at our hotel, more festive entertainment.
DAY 4: (New Year’s Eve) We have a half-day excursion to Exeter. Traditional cream tea will be served at our hotel in the afternoon, followed by a festive quiz and prize bingo. This evening enjoy a special seven-course tasting menu in Seasons Restaurant before dancing the night away at the New Year Party!
DAY 5: We depart after breakfast and stop in Salisbury with time for lunch and shopping. We then continue our journey home.
Belgrave Sands Hotel HHHH
Situated close to Torquay’s seafront, the hotel has leisure facilities which include swimming pool, sauna and steam room. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift to most rooms and there is nightly entertainment. www.belgravesands.com
DAVID HARPER
BUCKFAST ABBEY
Longleat Festival of Light
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half
Excursions as Listed
Join us on this lovely winter break for a truly unique spectacle as hundreds of illuminated lanterns transform the beautiful Longleat Estate into a glowing winter wonderland. We also visit the Safari Park, the festively decorated Elizabethan stately home**, and have time for shopping at Bristol Christmas Market.
DAY 1: We travel across the country toward Bath and our hotel, making suitable refreshment stops along the way.
DAY 2: We have a full day at Longleat to make the most of the many attractions. Visit the animals as we drive through the amazing Safari Park*; see the mansion house** and gardens decorated beautifully for Christmas; enjoy a trip on the jungle cruiser and buy wonderful Christmas gifts. At 4pm the lights come on and the grounds are populated with spectacular illuminated forms – a sight not to be missed!
DAY 3: After a leisurely breakfast, we travel to Bristol, with time to explore the Christmas Market and to get lunch. Early afternoon we make our way homewards.
Please note: *We do not drive through the monkey enclosure. **At the time of publication, Longleat had not confirmed whether the house would be open to the public. Bristol Christmas Market dates are yet to be confirmed.
Best Western Limpley Stoke Hotel HHH
Overlooking the spectacular Limpley Stoke Valley, the hotel is a stunning property with extensive gardens and elegant spacious public rooms. The hotel has a stylish restaurant and traditional bar. The comfortable bedrooms have TV, WiFi, telephone, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities. The guestrooms are located on three floors and a lift offers access to the first two floors with stair access to all three. Due to the architecture of the building there are some steps throughout. www.limpleystokehotel.co.uk
Royal Marines Christmas Spectacular
3 Days from £339
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Christmas Spectacular Excursions as Listed
The world-famous Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines will end the year with a military music spectacular! We travel to Bournemouth to witness this remarkable event and have some free time to explore Bournemouth and the gorgeous Christmas Tree Wonderland.
DAY 1: Making our way through Hampshire and the New Forest, we have a stop in Lyndhurst where you will be able to get lunch. We continue to our hotel in Bournemouth.
DAY 2: Spend your day exploring Bournemouth, indulging in some Christmas shopping or visiting the beautiful Christmas Tree Wonderland*. This free festive trail has a multitude of delightful illuminations through the Lower Gardens. We return to the hotel for an early dinner at 5pm, before travelling the short distance to the Bournemouth Pavilion for our evening of musical military entertainment. The Royal Marines will be showcasing their talents with festive music, military marches and big band hits. In addition, their world-renowned Corps of Drums will demonstrate the precision, accuracy and skill for which they have become famous across the globe. Our seats are in the stalls.
DAY 3: After a leisurely breakfast, we depart Bournemouth and travel up to Salisbury, where the historic town centre is crammed with interesting shops and pleasant cafés, excellent for Christmas shopping. We then make our way back to the local area.
Please note: *Christmas Tree Wonderland dates to be confirmed.
Marsham Court Hotel HHHH
Our family-run four-star hotel is situated on the East Cliff, with awardwinning garden frontage and terraces overlooking the bay. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, safe, ironing facilities, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is a lift to all floors but not all rooms can be accessed with no stairs. There is some evening entertainment. www.marshamcourthotel.co.uk
ROYAL MARINES SPECTACULAR
Festive Chatsworth & Haddon Hall
Spark your Christmas spirit on this festive tour which also has lots of opportunities to get cracking with gift shopping!
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Chatsworth House
Haddon Hall
National Memorial
Arboretum
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We travel north towards Cheshire, making suitable refreshment stops along the way, arriving at our hotel late afternoon.
DAY 2: This morning, we have a short stop in Bakewell, before continuing to Chatsworth House, home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. Look around all the beautifully decorated ground floor rooms, adorned with elaborate festive displays and breathtaking Christmas trees. You can also purchase refreshments at the café, visit the shop and explore the small Christmas Market.
DAY 3: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some free time at our delightful hotel before departing for the elegant spa town of Buxton. Here, you may wish to browse the many independent shops in the high street, stroll through the Pavilion Gardens, and have lunch in one of the many eateries.
DAY 4: Today, head to the magnificent Haddon Hall for the ‘Mercatum’ Artisan Christmas Market hosted in and around the hall and gardens. Browse the many stalls selling an array of Christmas gifts and decorations, whilst taking in the history and beauty of the Hall which will be dressed in all its festive glory. There is also a range of street food traders serving wonderful seasonal food and beverages.
DAY 5: Departing after breakfast, we journey south with a stop at the National Memorial Arboretum before continuing our journey home.
Please note: This tour is not really suitable for the less mobile. Due to the age and nature of Haddon Hall, access for visitors with restricted mobility is challenging with many uneven floors and steps without handrails.
Shrigley Hall Hotel HHHH
The 19th-century Shrigley Hall Hotel is situated on the edge of the Peak District National Park. The hotel stands in its own 262-acre estate overlooking the Cheshire Plain. All bedrooms are elegantly furnished and have TV, telephone, WiFi, ironing facilities, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is a charge for the use of the swimming pool and spa, payable at the hotel. The hotel has a lift, but there are some steps throughout. www.shrigleyhallhotelandspa.co.uk
Cornish Turkey & Tinsel
5 Days from £429
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Excursions as Listed
Chase away the winter blues with a short break to the everpopular Portbyhan hotel, where we start Christmas early with festive celebrations and entertainment at our beautifully decorated hotel.
DAY 1: We join our tour coach to travel across country and into Cornwall, making suitable refreshment stops along the way. We are greeted at our hotel with a cream tea.
DAY 2: After a leisurely breakfast we head to the vibrant town of Plymouth. Here you could explore the museums, gin distillery, the UK’s largest aquarium (entry costs not included) or do a little Christmas shopping. We return to our hotel mid-afternoon.
DAY 3: Today we make our way to Truro, where the Christmas Market is in full swing. Discover a delightful range of local crafts, unique gifts, and seasonal treats, all lovingly created by skilled artisans from the region. Alternatively, you may wish to visit the newly renovated Cornwall Museum & Art Gallery or the magnificent Truro Cathedral.
DAY 4: This morning is free in Looe, a town split in two and joined by a bridge, with narrow streets, quaint shops, cafés and harbour front to explore. Make your way back to the hotel, where this afternoon you can join our hosts for bingo and a quiz.
DAY 5: We travel homewards with suitable refreshment stops, before reaching the local area early evening.
Please Note: The order of days/entertainment may change. Cornish towns and villages have steep/cobbled streets which may not be suitable for the less mobile.
Portbyhan Hotel HHH
Our award-winning, family-run three-star hotel is situated on the quayside in Looe, overlooking the picturesque harbour. There is a bar, lounge, terrace and the Harbour View Restaurant serves locally sourced menus. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift and there is entertainment some evenings. www.portbyhan.com
LOOE
York
Christmas Market & Castle Howard
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Castle Howard Excursions as Listed
From our base overlooking the Humber Estuary, we visit the much-loved St Nicholas Christmas Fair in York and explore the sumptuous atmosphere of Castle Howard.
DAY 1: We travel north, with suitable refreshment stops, arriving at our hotel overlooking the Humber Estuary late afternoon for our three-night stay.
DAY 2: Today we head to the ancient, cobbled streets of York, where the Christmas Market is a festive wonderland of charming wooden stalls filled with potential gifts, seasonal treats and festive decorations. Enjoy mulled wine, hot churros and traditional foods, while the medieval setting, with the stunning York Minster nearby, adds to the enchanting atmosphere. A real treat for all the senses.
DAY 3: Today we spend a magical day at Castle Howard, transformed for the festive season. The house is adorned with spectacular decorations, including twinkling lights, festive garlands, and the iconic 25-foot traditional Christmas tree, with over 3000 baubles providing a breathtaking highlight in the Great Hall. Explore beautifully themed rooms, each filled with traditional holiday charm. The theme for 2025 is The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, creating a magical atmosphere as the story is told in stately surroundings with theatrical installations and immersive soundscapes.
DAY 4: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we make our way homeward, arriving in the local area early evening.
Best Western Hull Humber View HHH
Our Signature Collection three-star hotel is set in 17 acres of landscaped grounds with views of the Humber Bridge. The hotel features a relaxing lounge area, terrace and gym. Bedrooms are equipped with TV, telephone, WiFi, ironing facilities, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel is situated in a sloped landscape and does not have a lift. Although there are some ground floor rooms, there are steps throughout, including seven to reach the restaurant. www.bestwestern.co.uk
Bath, Bristol & Winchester Christmas Markets
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Excursions as Listed
Christmas is on the way, so we’re providing you the chance to get ahead with your gift shopping at the bustling Christmas Markets of Bath, Bristol and Winchester. Expect traditional wooden chalets offering unique and handmade products, and a range of food stalls cooking up tasty festive treats, all among the unique surroundings of the impressive Bath Abbey, Winchester Cathedral and Bristol’s famous Shopping Quarter.
DAY 1: We travel across country to Bristol, where the Christmas Market is set up in Broadmead, right in the heart of Bristol’s Shopping Quarter. You will find a host of chalets with authentic arts, crafts, gifts and mouthwatering food and drink. We then transfer to our hotel for our evening meal and a two-night stay.
DAY 2: We travel the short distance to Bath, where you have all day to explore this beautiful town, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are numerous attractions you might like to visit, or you could just spend the day at the award-winning Christmas Market. More than 200 wooden chalets are set in the picturesque streets surrounding Bath Abbey, selling high quality artisan products, gifts and delicious food.
DAY 3: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we travel to Winchester, where there will be free time to explore this excellent Christmas Market and to get some lunch. We return to the local area late afternoon.
Aztec Hotel & Spa HHHH
Our modern four-star hotel is to the north of Bristol and offers comfortable accommodation and leisure facilities which include swimming pool, steam room, Jacuzzi, sauna and gym. Bedrooms are equipped with TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift to all floors. www.aztechotelbristol.co.uk
MARKET
4 Days from £420
WINCHESTER XMAS MARKET
3 Days from £339
BRISTOL XMAS MARKET
Warner’s Bodelwyddan
Tinsel & Turkey
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Entertainment & Activity
Programme
Excursions as Listed
An all-in-one festive break that combines the magic of Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Eve. Celebrate ahead of the holidays with a stay packed full of engaging activities, local sights, shows and festive moments.
Please see notes on page 8
Warner’s Bembridge Tinsel & Turkey
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Entertainment & Activity Programme
Isle of Wight Steam Railway
DAY 1: We make our way to North Wales, with suitable breaks along the way. We are welcomed with festive mince pies and a glass of mulled wine or non-alcoholic bellini. Tonight, we celebrate Christmas Eve with a wonderful dinner and entertainment.
DAY 2: We start Christmas Day with a morning visit to Chester Christmas Market. 70 traders fill Town Hall Square, selling a charming mix of handmade crafts, jewellery and stocking fillers. The afternoon is free to enjoy the many available activities at your hotel before a full Christmas Dinner followed by live entertainment.
DAY 3: We take a relaxing half-day tour though the spectacular scenery of the Snowdonia National Park. We return for our Boxing Day dinner and a special evening concert featuring soprano Emily Haig, with crossover pop and rock classics, musical showstoppers and immediately recognisable classical arias.
DAY 4: A half day morning visit to Llandudno. The rest of the day is free at the hotel, and this evening we celebrate the New Year in style with music and entertainment.
DAY 5: Departing our hotel after breakfast, we make our way southwards, arriving in the local area late afternoon.
Please note: The Christmas programmes at Warner are not finalised and are subject to change.
Bodelwyddan Castle
Set in 200 acres of parkland, with breathtaking views of the Clwydian Hills and close to Snowdonia National Park, the Grade II listed Bodelwyddan Castle provides a wonderful holiday setting. This four-star-standard hotel boasts a stunning glass atrium, the Mulberry Coffee Lounge, bars, WiFi, wonderful leisure facilities and different entertainment every evening. All rooms are ensuite with TV, telephone, safe, hairdryer and hospitality tray. Rooms are in various buildings in the resort. Upgrades are available on request for an extra cost. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk
Enjoy an early Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year's Eve!
Excursions as Listed
Please see notes on page 8
DAY 1: We make our way into Hampshire for the ferry from Portsmouth to Fishbourne. We travel to our hotel on the east coast, where we are welcomed with mince pies, and tonight we celebrate Christmas Eve with dinner and entertainment.
DAY 2: A half-day excursion around the western part of the island, taking in the picture postcard village of Godshill. The rest of the day is free to enjoy the many activities at your hotel, and this evening a full Christmas Dinner feast with all the trimmings followed by live entertainment.
DAY 3: A half-day drive taking in the beautiful scenery along the southeast coast with a short stop at Shanklin. The rest of the day is free at the hotel, and this evening we celebrate the New Year in style with music and entertainment
DAY 4: After a relaxed breakfast we head out for a ride on the quaint Isle of Wight Steam Railway. Discover an idyllic view of the island’s unspoilt countryside and keep an eye out for a red squirrel as you pass through ancient woodland.
DAY 5: We return to Fishbourne and our ferry to the mainland, where we make our way along the coast and home.
Please note: The Christmas programmes at Warner are not finalised and are subject to change.
Warner’s Bembridge Coast Hotel
This three-star-standard, modern hotel is set in 23 acres of grounds on the secluded eastern shore of the Isle of Wight, and has marvellous sea views. Bedrooms are situated in various buildings in the complex and have WiFi, TV, telephone, hairdryer and hospitality tray. Leisure facilities include indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, fitness studio, and indoor bowls. We enjoy a daily programme of events with live nightly entertainment. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk
GODSHILL
FREETRANSFERS*
13 Nights from £2399
INCLUSIONS
Canary Island Christmas & Lisbon New Year
Door to Door Transfers*
En-suite Accommodation
Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Five Course à la Carte Dinner, Late Night Buffet, SelfService Tea & Coffee
Varied Daytime Activities Lectures & Talks
Swimming Pools, Jacuzzi & Gym
Choice of Evening Entertainment
Formal Welcome &/or
Captain’s Drink Party & Gala Buffet
Malvern at Christmas
Listed
Join us for a wonderful Christmas in Great Malvern. Enjoy festive fare and entertainment, visit Hereford and venture into the beautiful winter countryside.
DAY 1: We travel across the country, with suitable refreshment stops, arriving at our hotel late afternoon. Enjoy a cocktail reception before your evening meal.
Spend a relaxing and festive Christmas Day on board MS Borealis at sea en route to the wonderful garden-island of Madeira. We then enjoy visits to San Sebastian de la Gomera, Tenerife and Lanzarote – each with its own unique charms, fine beaches and glorious national parks. Our New Year is spent in Lisbon. Spend the day exploring the old town on foot or by vintage tram, and then celebrate the arrival of 2026 onboard in style, with excellent food, drink, entertainment and views of the city’s spectacular fireworks display – a sight not to be missed! We have one more glorious visit to La Coruňa, on the Spanish coast, before we return to Portsmouth.
Please note: Cruise can only be booked directly with Woods. Full terms & conditions available on request or found at www.fredolsencruises.com.
*Free transfers within Woods pick up area.
DAY 2: Christmas Eve This morning we have a pleasant drive by the Malvern Hills to Hereford, with its magnificent cathedral. We have time to meander around the city with its interesting alleyways and side streets, before returning to the hotel for a buffet lunch. This afternoon we enjoy games with our hosts then we have dinner with harp accompaniment. For those attending the Midnight Services in Malvern, cheese and port will await your return. (Transport not included.)
DAY 3: Christmas Day Happy Christmas! Enjoy your Champagne Breakfast – with a visit from Santa – and have a relaxing morning at the hotel or take a stroll and explore Great Malvern before Christmas Lunch is served. Listen to the King’s Speech and enjoy tea and Christmas cake, followed by a chance to outwit the Quiz Master. Dinner tonight is a buffet and afterwards watch a movie.
DAY 4: Boxing Day A circular drive this morning takes in Tewkesbury, Evesham, Pershore & Worcester before we arrive back at the hotel in time for a buffet lunch. This afternoon we join the hotel team for a game of bingo or see Jack and the Beanstalk at the Malvern Theatre (£34pp - add when booking). Dinner tonight is followed by an evening of live musical entertainment to round off the day!
DAY 5: We depart our hotel after breakfast and return you to your homes late afternoon.
The Abbey Hotel HHHH
In the heart of the countryside at the foot of the Malvern Hills, Great Malvern is the perfect place to spend Christmas. Our four-star hotel adjoins the fine Benedictine Priory and has spectacular views over the Vale of Evesham and the beautiful Malvern Hills. All rooms have TV, telephone, hairdryer, ironing facilities and hospitality tray. The hotel has WiFi and a lift to most rooms. www.sarova-abbeyhotel.com
LISBON
ABBEY
Cornish Christmas
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board + Christmas Lunch
Festive Programme
Excursions as Listed
Our lovely Cornish hotel offers a warm welcome and a truly festive Christmas. Enjoy good food, good company, trips to Truro and Padstow and drives through the beautiful Cornish countryside.
DAY 1: We travel through Hampshire, Dorset and Devon making suitable refreshment stops along the way. We arrive at our hotel in St Agnes late afternoon. This evening, we have a Sherry Reception and dinner is followed by musical entertainment.
DAY 2: Christmas Eve After a leisurely start, we make our way to Truro, Cornwall’s Cathedral city. Centre stage is the impressive gothic revival cathedral, and in its shadow a warren of back streets to explore. We have a scenic drive back to the hotel. This evening St Agnes Silver Band will be singing carols during dinner and the evening will continue with musical entertainment. Details of Midnight Services will be available at reception. (transport not included.)
DAY 3: Christmas Day Happy Christmas! Why not follow your breakfast with a stroll through St Agnes, but make sure you return to meet Santa before your traditional Christmas Lunch served in the restaurant. Watch the King’s Speech this afternoon or take a Christmas walk along the beach. This evening we have a buffet followed by entertainment.
DAY 4: Boxing Day After a leisurely breakfast, we travel north to Padstow, its narrow streets leading through pretty pastel houses to a picturesque harbour. We return to our hotel around mid-afternoon for a lovely cream tea. Tonight, we have a Farewell Dinner and more entertainment.
DAY 5: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we travel east with suitable refreshment stops, reaching the local area late afternoon.
Rosemundy House Hotel HHH
This delightful and elegant hotel has been tastefully extended and is set in its own secluded gardens and woodland, only 100 yards from the main street of the unspoilt village of St Agnes. The hotel has WiFi, an ironing room and the bedrooms have TV, telephone, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is no lift, but all rooms are on the ground or first floor and can be requested. www.rosemundy.co.uk
Warner’s Cricket St Thomas Christmas
5 Days from £1079
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Full Board
Festive Entertainment & Activities Programme
Please see notes on page 8
A beautiful hotel in a stunning location, Warner’s Cricket St Thomas offers the perfect fullboard Christmas experience. Fill your days with festive quizzes, carols, an on-site performance of Jack and the Beanstalk pantomime and more.
DAY 1: We make our way across country to Chard where our hotel is based. After check-in we enjoy a welcome festive treat & drink, then look forward to tonight’s dinner, followed by festive entertainment.
DAY 2: Christmas Eve Enjoy the fantastic onsite facilities, supplemented at Christmas with extra quizzes, carols, films and entertainers throughout the day. After a delicious dinner, there will be live entertainment.
DAY 3: Christmas Day Happy Christmas! After breakfast we join together for a Bucks Fizz reception, Santa and a magnificent Christmas spread. After lunch, join in heartwarming carol singing, before settling in for a cosy festive film and the King’s speech. We close this special day with a magical lantern-lit walk through the gardens and grounds.
DAY 4: Boxing Day Today, the Warner Theatre team perform their engaging and hilarious pantomime – Jack & The Beanstalk. After our farewell dinner the final festivities kick off with the “James Williams Showband” – a 10-piece band performing the very best soul, theatre, pop and swing. Don’t miss the grand finale – an incredible fireworks display.
DAY 5: Leaving Chard, we make our way along the coast with suitable refreshment stops to the local area and home.
Please note: Warner’s have not yet finalised their Christmas programme. The order of entertainment and activities may change. There are no excursions included on this tour.
Warner’s Cricket St Thomas
The Regency style, four-star-standard, elegant mansion of Cricket St Thomas is set within glorious, landscaped gardens. Bedrooms, located in the Walled Garden or the Courtyard, are spacious and comfortable with TV, telephone, hairdryer, ironing facilities and hospitality tray. Facilities include WiFi, croquet, French boules, bowls, air rifle shooting, indoor swimming pool, spa (advance booking recommended), sauna and steam rooms. There is a lift to some rooms, but some walking is required on site. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk
CRICKET ST THOMAS
Wight Christmas
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board + Two Lunches
Festive Programme
Isle of Wight Steam Railway
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Excursions as Listed
With beautiful sea views across the bay at Sandown, The Trouville Hotel is a Woods favourite. Customers return to enjoy Christmas again and again, to relax in comfort, enjoy the festive atmosphere, excellent entertainment and ride on the wonderful Isle of Wight Steam Railway.
DAY 1: We make our way across Hampshire for the afternoon ferry from Portsmouth to Fishbourne. We then travel to our hotel in Sandown for tea and mince pies. This evening, dinner is followed by music and dancing.
DAY 2: Christmas Eve Perhaps enjoy a stroll along the Sandown Promenade before returning to the hotel for a light lunch from the bar. This afternoon, tea and Christmas cake are served and this evening we sing Christmas carols in the lounge before a candlelit dinner and entertainment in the ballroom.
DAY 3: Christmas Day Happy Christmas! This morning try the puzzles and games in the lounge before enjoying some sparkling wine and carols. Your traditional Christmas Lunch is followed by the King’s Speech in the lounge, and then the Bumper Quiz of the Year! A light supper is followed by entertainment in the ballroom.
DAY 4: Boxing Day Mid-morning we travel to Havenstreet station with its festive decorations for a ride on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, a 50minute round trip. Early afternoon enjoy afternoon tea in the hotel restaurant. In the evening, dinner is followed by dancing in the ballroom.
DAY 5: We return to Fishbourne and our ferry to the mainland, where we make our way along the coast and home.
Please note: Activities and entertainment subject to change.
Trouville Hotel HHH
The Trouville is situated on The Esplanade in Sandown with sweeping views of the bay from the bar, the restaurant and the twin and double rooms. The bedrooms offer TV, telephone, WiFi and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift and entertainment every evening. www.trouvillehotel.co.uk
Gloucester & Cotswolds Christmas
Christmas is the perfect time to visit this beautiful area of England, when the rolling countryside is clear and crisp.
Door to Door Service
Half Board + Christmas
Lunch
Festive Programme
Gloucester Cathedral
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We make our way to Gloucestershire with a visit to the historic town of Cirencester before arriving for a hot drink at our hotel. This evening, we enjoy carols and mulled wine before dinner.
DAY 2: Christmas Eve After a relaxed breakfast, we journey out around the stunning Cotswolds, via Broadway and taking in some of the charming villages and views with a break at Evesham Valley Country Park. After dinner we enjoy a festive quiz and musical entertainment.
DAY 3: Christmas Day A special day to enjoy the festive company of new friends as our hotel staff cook up a splendid breakfast and magnificent Christmas Lunch with a glass of wine and all the trimmings before relaxing to see the King’s Speech. Enjoy Christmas games, bingo and more music and we finish the day off with a buffet dinner.
DAY 4: Boxing Day Today we visit Gloucester for a self-guided tour of the magnificent 7th-century Cathedral, taking the chance to see the magnificent architecture before heading out to explore the city. Entertainment tonight includes an Elvis tribute show with a Las Vegas theme.
DAY 5: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we have suitable refreshment stops on our way back home.
Mercure Bowden Hall Hotel HHHH
Regency elegance awaits you at the Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall Hotel, set in 12 acres of rolling park and woodland close to Upton St Leonards. All bedrooms have TV, WiFi, telephone, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel does not have a lift, and does not have ground floor rooms. There are steps throughout the hotel, though a platform lift is available to the first floor. www.mercuregloucester.co.uk
ISLE OF WIGHT STEAM RAILWAY
5 Days from £909
THE COTSWOLDS
Days from £889
Orton Hall Christmas
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board + Two Lunches
Festive Programme
Pantomime
Excursions as Listed
This beautiful and historic hotel is a magical venue for your Christmas break. In the grounds of Orton Hall are the Old Ramblewood Inn and Holy Trinity Church, and we have included a visit to see the pantomime Jack & The Beanstalk. This holiday is one of our most popular Christmas breaks and is always booked up very quickly.
DAY 1: Christmas Eve We make our way north stopping at Saffron Walden for lunch and sightseeing. We continue to our hotel where this evening there will be a Christmas drink and carols before dinner. Holy Trinity Church in the grounds of the hotel may have Midnight Services.
DAY 2: Christmas Day Happy Christmas! A morning visit by Santa is followed by a traditional Christmas Lunch with a glass of wine. In the afternoon relax and enjoy the King’s Speech in the Conservatory, and in the evening a delicious buffet.
DAY 3: Boxing Day A morning excursion to the beautiful conservation town of Stamford. We return to a buffet luncheon at the hotel. The afternoon is free to relax and then we have Boxing Day Dinner, with entertainment.
DAY 4: Today we visit King’s Lynn, where there will be some free time before we take our seats for the Jack & The Beanstalk pantomime at the Corn Exchange. We return to our hotel for our evening meal.
DAY 5: We leave our hotel this morning for a leisurely drive back to the South making suitable stops, before arriving in the local area.
Orton Hall Hotel HHHH
Set in 20 acres of mature parkland in Orton Longueville, this four-star character hotel has WiFi, and 70 individually furnished bedrooms with TV, telephone, hairdryer, ironing facilities, safe and hospitality tray. Leisure facilities include swimming pool, mini-gym, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi*. The hotel does not have a lift, but some ground floor rooms are available. There are some steps throughout. www.ortonhall.co.uk
Please note: *Leisure facilities will only be open on Days 4 & 5.
StratfordUpon-Avon at Christmas
We are delighted to offer the Doubletree by Hilton StratfordUpon-Avon for Christmas 2025 – a great hotel in a wonderful town.
5 Days from £995
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board + Christmas Lunch
Festive Programme
Shakespeare’s Guildhall & Schoolroom
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: Christmas Eve We make our way to Stratford-Upon-Avon and our hotel, arriving with time to settle in before a drinks reception leads into tonight’s dinner and musical entertainment. For those attending Midnight Services, hot drinks await your return. (Transport not included.)
DAY 2: Christmas Day Happy Christmas! After breakfast spend the morning enjoying the leisure facilities or relaxing in the lounge before your traditional Christmas Lunch. Tea and Christmas cake will be available during the King’s Speech. This evening’s buffet dinner is followed by a quiz.
DAY 3: Boxing Day This morning we take a drive through some beautiful Cotswold towns and villages. Later, take your seat for dinner and musical entertainment.
DAY 4: After breakfast, we travel into Stratford-Upon-Avon for a guided visit of Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall, and for free time to explore the Bard’s hometown. We return for tea, coffee and mince pies, then relax as the hotel takes care of our farewell dinner.
DAY 5: After a relaxed breakfast we make our way homeward with suitable refreshment stops along the way.
Doubletree by Hilton Stratford-Upon-Avon HHHH
Found close to the heart of Shakespeare’s beautiful Stratford-Upon-Avon, the Doubletree by Hilton boasts easy city access and adds a special sparkle to a full festive experience. The hotel has a restaurant, bar and lounge, and a lift to most rooms. Bedrooms have TV, WiFi, hairdryer, ironing and tea & coffee making facilities. www.hilton.com
Imagine a place with all the luxuries of a hotel but with the personable and intimate touches of a private home, and you have a good image of the Forest Lodge hotel.
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board + Christmas Lunch
Festive Programme
Beaulieu Motor Museum & Palace House
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: Christmas Eve We travel across to Hampshire, arriving at our hotel in the afternoon for a festive treat on arrival. Carol singers will put you in the festive spirit before you enjoy your evening meal prior to relaxing in one of the lounges. For those attending Midnight Services, mulled wine and mince pies will await your return. (Transport not included.)
DAY 2: Christmas Day Happy Christmas! Have a delicious breakfast and enjoy a relaxed morning at the hotel or take a swim before a canapé and fizz reception leading into Christmas Lunch. Enjoy the King’s Speech with hot drinks, followed by evening buffet supper and a chance for prizes during the evening entertainment.
DAY 3: Boxing Day This morning we head out to Beaulieu Motor Museum and attractions, where Palace House is filled with Victorian festive bustle. We return to the hotel for another fine festive meal and live musical entertainment.
DAY 4: Today we travel to Salisbury where you can explore the magnificent architecture, cathedral, shops and cafés. After lunch we head back to the hotel to relax and enjoy the facilities before our farewell dinner and a quiz or bingo.
DAY 5: We depart our hotel after breakfast and return you to your homes with a suitable refreshment stop along the way.
Please note: This hotel is not suitable for the less mobile.
Forest Lodge Hotel HHHH
Our lovely four-star hotel, the Forest Lodge, found on the edge of Lyndhurst, has elegant Georgian architecture and Christmas decorations to feel like home. There is a large indoor pool, and the rooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer, ironing and tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel does not have a lift and there are steps throughout the building. www.forestlodge.newforesthotels.co.uk
Chesford Grange Christmas
5 Days from £965
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board + Christmas Lunch
Festive Programme
Pantomime
This wonderful Christmas tour is based at the four-star Chesford Grange Hotel in Warwickshire and includes a visit to the pantomime and time in Stratford to explore the town and visit Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall.
Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: Christmas Eve We travel north reaching our hotel near Kenilworth in the afternoon, to be greeted with a cream tea. In the evening, enjoy a three-course dinner accompanied by carollers, and for those attending Midnight Services, there will be tea and mince pies awaiting your return. (Transport not included.)
DAY 2: Christmas Day Happy Christmas! Enjoy a leisurely morning before a glass of fizz begins your traditional Christmas Lunch. Watch the King’s Speech in the afternoon with tea and Christmas cake. Tonight, a leisurely evening buffet will be served before in-house entertainment.
DAY 3: Boxing Day Explore the leisure facilities at our hotel before we make our way into Coventry with free time to get some lunch before the matinee pantomime: Sleeping Beauty!
DAY 4: After breakfast, we visit Stratford-upon-Avon to visit the magnificent Guildhall and Shakespeare’s Schoolroom followed by free time to explore the many attractions and charms of the town. Back at the hotel, enjoy a hot drink and mince pie before a relaxing farewell dinner.
DAY 5: Today we make our way homeward with suitable refreshment stops along the way.
Chesford Grange Hotel HHHH
Surrounded by 17 acres of countryside, our four-star hotel has a Tudorstyle exterior while inside the historic blends with contemporary style and modern comforts. Leisure facilities include swimming pool, steam room, gym and spa treatment rooms (advance booking recommended). Bedrooms have TV, telephone, hairdryer, ironing facilities and hospitality tray. The hotel has WiFi and a lift to some rooms. www.chesfordgrange.com
SHAKESPEARE’S SCHOOLROOM
5 Days from £765
Cambridge at Christmas
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board + Two Lunches
Festive Programme
New Year at The Heights
4 Days from £639
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Pantomime
Excursions as Listed
Excursions as Listed
Join us for a wonderful Christmas close to Cambridge. Enjoy festive fare and entertainment, see the city and venture into the beautiful winter countryside.
DAY 1: Christmas Eve We travel across the country, with suitable refreshment stops, arriving at our hotel in Cambourne late afternoon. Tonight, we have a musical entertainment after our evening meal. For those attending Midnight Services, a hot drink and mince pie will await your return. (Transport not included.)
DAY 2: Christmas Day Happy Christmas! Enjoy your breakfast and have a relaxing morning at the hotel, maybe have a swim before joining together for a glass of fizz and Christmas Lunch with all the trimmings. Listen to the King’s Speech and relax in the lounges. Dinner tonight is a buffet supper along with festive-themed fun.
DAY 3: Boxing Day This morning we make a short drive to Cambridge, with its magnificent University buildings and wide streets crossing the river Cam. We have time to meander around the city with its interesting alleyways and side streets to explore before enjoying an included lunch. We return to the hotel for our evening meal and musical entertainment.
DAY 4: A circular drive takes in the charming towns of Saffron Walden and Ely with free time to explore in both. We round off our delightful stay with a relaxed dinner and evening.
DAY 5: We depart our hotel after breakfast and return you to your homes late afternoon.
Cambridge Belfry Hotel & Spa HHHH
Our tranquil, lakeside, four-star hotel, the Cambridge Belfry, is 10 miles west of Cambridge. There is a restaurant, bar and lounge. Leisure facilities include swimming pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, steam room and gym. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, hairdryer, ironing facilities, and hospitality tray. The hotel has free WiFi and a lift to all floors. www.thecambridgebelfry.co.uk
We bring in the New Year on the summit of the Isle of Portland, with spectacular panoramic sea and coastal views. Our hotel promises excellent evenings of dancing and entertainment and during our tour we visit Bournemouth, Weymouth, Dorchester, Sidmouth and have a visit to the panto on New Year’s Eve.
DAY 1: We set off this morning travelling through the New Forest to Bournemouth, where there will be time to have some lunch. We continue to our hotel where we are greeted with tea and cake in the View Café overlooking the coastal views. Dinner is taken in the Bistro followed by music and a “Dessert Cocktail” in the bar.
DAY 2: New Year’s Eve We take a morning drive into Weymouth, with its pretty harbour, many cafés and shopping opportunities. In the afternoon we have tickets to see the Christmas pantomime at the Weymouth Pavilion. Back at the hotel, this evening begins with a Bucks Fizz, before a four-course Gala Dinner in The Portland Suite followed by music and dancing to bring in the New Year!
DAY 3: New Year’s Day Happy New Year! We begin 2025 with a delicious Dorset Breakfast followed by a short mid-morning visit to Tout Quarry Sculpture Park and the photogenic Portland Bill Lighthouse, then a trip along the Jurassic Coast to the Regency town of Sidmouth. You may like to take a stroll along the promenade to blow away the cobwebs! We return to our hotel mid-afternoon. Dinner tonight has a Dorset theme, followed by a quiz, comedy, magic and prize bingo.
DAY 4: After another lovely Dorset Breakfast, we travel to Dorchester for some free time among the alleys and precincts that make up the centre. We then continue back to the local area to meet our taxis.
Please note: Order of excursions may change.
The Heights Hotel HHH
The three-star Heights Hotel is set in the heart of the World Heritage Coastline on the Isle of Portland, with stunning views over Chesil Beach, Weymouth, Lyme Bay and Portland Harbour. The hotel has WiFi and all bedrooms have TV, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is a lift. www.heightshotel.com
Warner’s Holme Lacy
5 Days from £429
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Snowdrops & STEAM
4 Days from
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Lunch on Day 4
Welford Park
Join us for a relaxing winter break to Herefordshire and escape the January blues with Warner’s wide range of activities and entertainment. We have included three half day excursions to Hereford, Ledbury and Ludlow.
Entertainment & Activity Programme
Excursions as Listed
Please see notes on page 8
DAY 1: We travel west and cross the magnificent Severn Bridge into Wales, where we continue up the Wye Valley to our Warner Hotel near Hereford.
DAY 2: This morning is spent in the historic walled city of Hereford, where you can stroll through the streets, shop or visit the cathedral. The afternoon is free in Hereford or at Holme Lacy, where you can take part in the many activities available.
DAY 3: Our morning excursion is to Ludlow, a thriving medieval market town, with plenty of pleasant shops and cafés. Our afternoon is free at Holme Lacy.
DAY 4: A visit to Ledbury where you will have free time to explore one of the finest black and white towns in the country, with cobbled streets and picturesque half-timbered houses. The afternoon is free at Holme Lacy.
DAY 5: Departing after breakfast, we travel back with a stop in Cheltenham for lunch and arrive in the local area late afternoon.
Warner’s Holme Lacy
Set in the idyllic Wye Valley, our four-star-standard hotel is a magnificent Grade I listed mansion, is mainly 18th-century and has ornate ceilings, a majestic sweeping staircase and a stately drawing room. The grounds hold beautiful gardens, an orchard, wooded parklands and a fishing lake. There are abundant leisure facilities including swimming pool, sauna, steam room, gym, tennis and croquet. In addition, there is live nightly entertainment. Our rooms are in the new wing and are equipped with TV, telephone, hairdryer, ironing facilities and hospitality tray. The hotel has WiFi and a lift, but some walking is necessary. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk
A wonderful way to start the year with a tour of some of the finest snowdrop collections in the country. Visit Batsford, Welford and Colesbourne Park, which has a remarkable collection in a private garden.
Colesbourne Park
Batsford Arboretum
STEAM Museum
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We make our way to Welford Park in Berkshire, where a magnificent snowdrop display awaits us. Light snacks are available in the Old Laundry Tearoom, before we continue to our hotel, where we are welcomed with warm cookies.
DAY 2: Today we visit Cirencester and then make our way to Colesbourne Park, to see one of the finest displays of snowdrops in the country. Over 350 species are now spread throughout this private garden, as well as hellebores, cyclamen and other winter flowering shrubs.
DAY 3: After breakfast we make our way via Chipping Norton to Batsford Arboretum, home to one of the finest botanical collections in the country. Batsford is also home to a beautiful visitor centre, gift shop and café. We return to our hotel via some pretty Cotswold villages.
DAY 4: Departing our hotel, we travel the short distance into Swindon and STEAM, the Museum of the Great Western Railway. The museum is housed in a beautifully restored Grade II listed railway building in the heart of the former Swindon railway works, located right next to Swindon's Designer Outlet. We have an included light lunch before travelling back to the local area and home.
Please note: We have planned our visit at the height of the usual snowdrop season, but flower displays are always weather dependent. Colesbourne is a private garden and walking is sometimes on grass and/or slopes.
Doubletree by Hilton Swindon HHHH
Our four-star hotel is situated 3 miles from Swindon and features a pleasant restaurant, bar, lounge and a well-equipped gym. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, ironing facilities, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel has a lift. www.hilton.com
HOLME LACY
SNOWDROPS
4 Days from £470
Birmingham Tattoo & Snowdrops
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Birmingham Tattoo
Shakespeare’s Birthplace
Rococo Gardens
Excursions as Listed
The 2026 Birmingham International Tattoo promises to be an amazing spectacle of military precision and musical prowess. Britain's biggest indoor tattoo features gun racing, dog racing, standard bearers, dance teams and more, including a spectacular Grand Finale with over 1,000 performers.
DAY 1: This morning we make our way to Marlborough with time to explore and get lunch, before continuing our journey and arriving at our hotel late afternoon.
DAY 2: Today, we explore Stratford-upon-Avon and Shakespeare’s world. We visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace and childhood home to hear tales of Shakespeare’s family life and get up close to objects from the Trust’s unique collections. The afternoon is free in town, or you could relax at your hotel, or join your driver on a drive through some pretty Cotswold villages.
DAY 3: After a leisurely breakfast, we travel into Birmingham, where you have free time to explore. At 2pm we take our seats for the International Tattoo, which will bring together massed marching bands, pipes and drums, Field Gun displays and Fly Ball exhibitions. The spectacular Grand Finale features over 1000 performers, including the Parade of Massed Standards, as well as the Royal Air Force Cosford Queen’s Colour and Escort, for a fantastic celebration of pomp and pageantry.
DAY 4: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we make our way down to Painswick Rococo Gardens, which should be resplendent with carpets of beautiful snowdrops. Early afternoon we continue home, arriving in the local area late afternoon.
Stratford Manor Hotel HHHH
Situated only a few miles from Stratford-upon-Avon, this modern hotel has an elegant and spacious interior. All bedrooms have TV, telephone, ironing facilities, hairdryer, and hospitality tray. There is a games room, and a Leisure Club complete with heated pool, gym, sauna, and steam room. The hotel has Wi-Fi and a lift. www.stratfordmanor.co.uk
Cornish Cosy Break
A wonderful way to start the year with a tour to Cornwall. Visit Truro, Polperro and Charlestown from our Looebased hotel.
5 Days from £469
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Cream Tea Day 1
Lunch Day 2
Looe Valley Line
Eden Project Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We travel across country, through Devon and into Cornwall, making suitable refreshment stops along the way. We are greeted at our hotel with a cream tea.
DAY 2: This morning we make our way to Truro, Cornwall’s cathedral city. Centre stage is the impressive gothic revival cathedral, and in its shadow a warren of back streets to explore. We depart and travel to Charlestown where we have an included fish and chip lunch. After some free time, we make our way back to the hotel.
DAY 3: This morning we visit Polperro, a picture book conservation village with narrow, winding streets, and cottages perched on steep slopes overlooking a tiny harbour. We then transfer to Liskeard Station to board the Looe Valley Line for an 8½-mile journey back down to Looe, with beautiful views of the East Looe River and through picturesque valleys teeming with wildlife. The rest of the day is free in Looe, a town split in two and joined by a bridge, with narrow streets, quaint shops, cafés and harbour front to explore.
DAY 4: We depart after breakfast to visit the marvellous Eden Project, a fantastic development where huge biomes house the largest ever rainforest in captivity with stunning plants, exhibitions and extraordinary gardens.
DAY 5: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we travel east with suitable refreshment stops, reaching the local area late afternoon.
Please Note: This tour is not suitable for the less mobile.
Portbyhan Hotel HHH
Our award-winning, family-run three-star hotel is situated on the quayside in West Looe, overlooking the picturesque harbour. There is a bar, lounge, terrace and the Harbour View Restaurant serves locally sourced menus. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift and there is entertainment some evenings. www.portbyhan.com
BIRMINGHAM TATTOO
POLPERRO
Warner’s Bodelwyddan Castle
5 Days from £449
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Entertainment & Activity Programme
Excursions as Listed
Please see notes on page 8
A Victorian folly that looks like a medieval fortress, Bodelwyddan Castle forms a unique part of the North Wales landscape. Spend your time strolling around the extensive parkland and gardens, go on three included half-day excursions, or get involved in the varied activities which make a Warner’s holiday so memorable.
DAY 1: We travel through the English counties and across into Wales before continuing to our hotel in Denbighshire, arriving late afternoon in time for dinner.
DAYS 2-4: During your stay you can enjoy leisure facilities which include heated indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room and fitness studio. Activities available include Tai Chi, Zumba, rifle shooting, table tennis, darts, archery and quoits! If you wish to take part, the day is filled with activities such as games, quizzes and demonstrations, and in the evening, entertainment includes shows, comedians, singers, gameshow classics and music for dancing. During your stay we have included an afternoon visit to Chester, a half-day trip to Llandudno and a drive into the Snowdonia National Park with a stop in Betws-y-Coed.
DAY 5: Departing our hotel after breakfast, we make our way southwards, having suitable refreshment stops along the way, and arriving in the local area late afternoon.
Please note: The actual castle at Bodelwyddan is no longer open to explore.
Bodelwyddan Castle
Set in 200 acres of parkland, with breathtaking views of the Clwydian Hills and close to Snowdonia National Park, the four-star-standard, Grade II listed Bodelwyddan Castle provides a wonderful holiday setting. The hotel boasts a stunning glass atrium, the Mulberry Coffee Lounge, bars, WiFi, wonderful leisure facilities and different entertainment every evening. All rooms are ensuite with TV, telephone, safe, hairdryer and hospitality tray. Rooms are in various buildings in the resort. Upgrades are available on request and at extra cost. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk
Treasures in Trust: Cheshire & The Peaks
National Trust Members’ Tour: We visit three wonderful National Trust properties, as well as exploring some of the pretty towns of the Peak District National Park.
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Quarry Bank Mill
Lyme Park
Little Moreton Hall
National Memorial Arboretum
Excursions as Listed
*Please see notes on page 8
DAY 1: We travel north with suitable refreshment stops along the way, arriving at our hotel late afternoon.
DAY 2: Today we explore Lyme Park (NT), nestling on the edge of the Peak District, surrounded by gardens, moorland and a deer park. Originally a remote hunting lodge, Lyme Park was turned into an Italianate palace in the 18th Century, with lavish interiors and packed with treasures. We then travel through the Peak District National Park and have some free time in Buxton before returning to our hotel.
DAY 3: After a leisurely breakfast, we visit Quarry Bank Mill (NT) where you can purchase some lunch in the café. Then explore this once thriving cotton mill and see glimpses of the lives of the masters of the industrial revolution and those who toiled to keep the mill running. We return to our hotel mid-afternoon.
DAY 4: We begin our day with a drive into the Peak District including beautiful vistas over Ladybower Reservoir and a visit to Bakewell. In the afternoon we visit Little Moreton Hall (NT), a remarkable Tudor home which has stood the test of time and gives a wonderful insight into a simpler style of living.
DAY 5: Departing after breakfast, we travel south with a stop at the National Memorial Arboretum, before continuing our journey home.
Shrigley Hall Hotel HHHH
The 19th-century Shrigley Hall Hotel is situated on the edge of the Peak District National Park. The hotel stands in its own 262-acre estate overlooking the Cheshire Plain. All rooms are elegantly furnished and are equipped with TV, telephone, WiFi, ironing facilities, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is a charge for the use of the swimming pool and spa. The hotel has a lift, but there are some steps throughout. www.shrigleyhallhotelandspa.co.uk
LITTLE MORETON HALL
BODELWYDDAN CASTLE
5 Days from £559
Belgrave Sands Cosy Break
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Cream Tea on Day 4
National Marine Aquarium
Plymouth Gin Distillery
Buckfast Abbey
Excursions as Listed
The Belgrave Sands is one of our most popular hotels with truly wonderful feedback from all our customers. It offers comfort, style and excellent service. Explore the area on our included tours, or just relax and enjoy Torquay and the wonderful hospitality of our hosts.
DAY 1: We make our way west, making suitable refreshment stops along the way. We arrive in Torquay and reach our hotel, where we are greeted with tea or coffee. Tonight, there will be a welcome drink before dinner and entertainment.
DAY 2: This morning we travel to Plymouth to discover the incredible underwater world at the National Marine Aquarium, where you have free time to explore. In the afternoon we visit the Plymouth Gin Distillery, for an introduction to the distillation process and the botanicals which are used. There will also, of course, be a chance to taste the delicious wares.
DAY 3: We take a leisurely drive through the wild beauty of the Dartmoor National Park, with a visit to Buckfast Abbey. On our return we stop at Trago Mills Shopping Outlet.
DAY 4: A free day to enjoy the elegant resort town of Torquay or join your driver on a half day visit to Exeter. Either way, make sure you don’t miss the lovely cream tea available at our hotel this afternoon, along with a fun quiz.
DAY 5: We depart after breakfast and stop in Salisbury with time for lunch and shopping. We then continue our journey home.
Belgrave Sands Hotel HHHH
Situated close to Torquay’s seafront, the hotel has leisure facilities which include swimming pool, sauna and steam room. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift to most rooms and there is nightly entertainment. www.belgravesands.com
INCLUSIONS
Bournemouth All Inclusive
A lovely early All Inclusive break exploring the delights of Dorset and The New Forest. Our hotel offers a warm welcome, two nights of entertainment, packed lunches on days two to four, and a free bar*.
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Packed Lunches x 3 Free Bar*
Kingston Lacy
Salisbury Cathedral
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We travel across to Wimborne with time to get refreshments and explore. Perhaps visit the Minster or the Museum of East Dorset. We continue to our hotel in Bournemouth, where we are greeted with tea and coffee.
DAY 2: This morning we travel to Salisbury. Salisbury’s history dates to the Iron Age, but it is best known for having the tallest cathedral spire in England along with a well-preserved medieval town with many wooden buildings. We have included a visit to the magnificent cathedral. In the afternoon we travel to the picturesque village of Shaftesbury.
DAY 3: After a leisurely breakfast, the day is free for you to explore Bournemouth.
DAY 4: This morning, we head to the town of Lyndhurst, known as the capital of The New Forest since the times of William the Conqueror. Lyndhurst offers a wide range of shops, cosy tea rooms, old-world pubs and cafés. Later, we travel to the market town of Lymington, in the south of the New Forest. Here we have a chance to enjoy your packed lunch and spend some time exploring at our own pace.
DAY 5: Departing mid-morning, we travel to Kingston Lacy, a lavish family home built to resemble a Venetian Palace, and home to the largest private collection of Egyptian Artefacts in the UK. In the afternoon, we make our way to the local area and home.
Please note: *Free Bar is between 6pm and 9pm each night and includes house-branded draught beer, lager, house wine & draught soft drinks. The hotel entertainment programme is yet to be confirmed, but there will be entertainment on two nights of our stay.
Suncliff Hotel HHH
Our three-star hotel is situated on the East Cliff with panoramic views over Bournemouth Bay. The hotel offers indoor swimming pool, sauna, gym & squash court, traditional pub, Tropicana Lounge & Atlantis Restaurant. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. There is a lift to all floors. Includes two nights of entertainment. www.suncliff.oceana-collection.com
Harrogate, Skipton & York
5 Days from £684
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Cream Tea Day 4
York Minster
Excursions as Listed
A lovely early break exploring the delights of North Yorkshire, with excursions into The Dales, and time in Skipton, Harrogate and York, including a visit to the magnificent York Minster.
DAY 1: We travel north, with suitable refreshment stops, reaching our hotel in Harrogate late afternoon.
DAY 2: Our day takes us to the historic cathedral city of York, the capital of Yorkshire and a particularly beautiful city. We have included a visit to 7th-century York Minster, to experience the vast spaces and breathtaking medieval architecture, discover its Roman roots and learn about the Minster’s role in Viking York. The rest of the day is free to wander through The Shambles, visit one of the many museums and enjoy lunch or a drink by the riverside.
DAY 3: We drive into the Yorkshire Dales, passing through the pretty village of Pateley Bridge, travelling over the moorland until we arrive at Grassington, a quaint cobbled market town. On to Skipton, known as the “Gateway to the Dales”. The high street leads up to the church, behind which you will see the impressive 900-year-old castle and Skipton Woods.
DAY 4: This morning we take a short drive to the spa and market town of Knaresborough, where you might enjoy a wander along the riverside. We return to Harrogate, where the rest of the day is at leisure. Enjoy a stroll through the beautiful Valley Gardens, explore the delightful Victoria Arcade for some retail therapy and have a relaxing lunch in one of the many restaurants, cafés and bars. Later this afternoon, return to the hotel to enjoy a cream tea to end your holiday on a sweet note!
DAY 5: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we travel homewards making suitable refreshment stops along the way.
The Old Swan Hotel HHHH
The Old Swan Hotel stands in the centre of the lovely town of Harrogate, in Yorkshire, and is famed as being Agatha Christie’s hiding place during her disappearance in 1926. Bedrooms are stylishly furnished, and the public areas include the Wedgwood Restaurant and the Swan Bar and Lounge. All bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift. www.classiclodges.co.uk
Spring in South Wales
5 Days from £545
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Visit wonderful Wales to see the seasonal colour at the National Botanic Garden and Aberglasney and admire the glorious scenery of the Gower Peninsula and the Pembrokeshire Coast. There are many single rooms available on this tour.
Tea & Scone Day 3
National Botanic Garden
Birds of Prey Centre
Aberglasney Gardens
Pembroke Castle Tour
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We travel across to Gloucester in time for lunch. We continue to our hotel in Carmarthen, where we are greeted with tea and Welsh cakes.
DAY 2: Today we visit the National Botanic Garden of Wales, which was created within a beautiful Regency park, with over 100,000 plants and the Great Glasshouse as its remarkable centrepiece – making it perfect for all weathers. We have included entry to The British Bird of Prey Centre. Take a walk around the aviaries or enjoy a conservation talk by one of the falconers. The afternoon is free in Carmarthen.
DAY 3: We visit the pretty resort of Tenby this morning and this afternoon we travel further west to Pembroke. Here we have a guided tour of the castle, once the magnificent home of the Earls of Pembroke, and enjoy tea and scones in the Castle Café.
DAY 4: This morning we visit the Gower Peninsula, designated an ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’, before continuing to Mumbles. Our afternoon is spent at Aberglasney Gardens, a remarkable site recovered from years of neglect and restored to its former glory.
DAY 5: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we travel to Cardiff for free time over the lunchtime period. We then cross the River Severn and continue to the local area and home.
Ivy Bush Royal Hotel HHH
Our three-star hotel is within walking distance of Carmarthen, is sympathetically modernised and retains its old-world charm. All rooms have TV, telephone, hairdryer, ironing facilities and hospitality tray. The hotel has a bar, spacious lounge and terrace, WiFi and a lift and provides two nights of entertainment. www.ivybushroyal.co.uk
ABERGLASNEY GARDENS
Warner’s Cricket St Thomas
5 Days from £489
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Entertainment & Activity
Programme
River Exe Cruise
Paris Afloat
Donkey Sanctuary
A beautiful hotel in a stunning location, Warner’s Cricket St Thomas offers the perfect break away. Enjoy lots of free time at the hotel to make the most of Warner’s wonderful mix of daily activities and nightly entertainment, whilst also exploring some of the local area.
Excursions as Listed
Please see notes on page 8
DAY 1: We make our way to Dorchester for some free time to get refreshments before continuing to Chard where our hotel is based. After check-in, have some time to settle in and get ready for dinner.
DAY 2: After breakfast, join the coach to the beautiful Regency town of Sidmouth. Spend some free time in the town, or head to the Donkey Sanctuary where hundreds of rescued donkeys are lovingly looked after.
DAY 3: Spend the morning at Clarks Shopping Village Designer Outlet where you might find a bargain, or visit the historic, yet quirky, town of Glastonbury. The afternoon is free at the hotel.
DAY 4: This morning, we travel to the coastal town of Exmouth where we have a circular cruise on the calm and sheltered waters of the beautiful River Exe. From the Marina, cruise the peaceful waters towards Powderham Castle and back to where the river opens out into the English Channel on Exmouth’s traditional seafront. See the stunning scenery, wildlife, and nature of the nationally renowned Exe Estuary.
DAY 5: Leaving Chard, we travel to Salisbury for shopping and time for lunch. We then make our way along the coast, to our taxis and home.
Warner’s Cricket St Thomas
The Regency style elegant mansion of Cricket St Thomas is set within glorious, landscaped gardens, and was the original setting for the series ‘To the Manor Born’. Bedrooms, located in the Walled Garden or the Courtyard, are spacious and comfortable with TV, telephone, hairdryer, ironing facilities and hospitality tray. Facilities include WiFi, croquet, French boules, bowls, air rifle shooting, indoor swimming pool, spa, sauna and steam rooms. There is a lift, but some walking required on site. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk
4 Days from £565
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Imagine a floating hotel on the beautiful River Seine close to the Eiffel Tower, wonderful cuisine and the courteous hospitality of the CroisiEurope crew. We enjoy a panoramic Paris tour by night in comfort as our ‘floating hotel’ cruises along the Seine*. We also visit the main sights by coach and have time in the artist’s quarter of Montmartre.
Full Board on MS Botticelli
Two Guided Tours
DAY 1: We travel to Dover for the short sea crossing to Calais. From here we drive down to Paris making suitable refreshment stops along the way. Dinner this evening is followed by a cabaret show on board.
DAY 2: This morning we have a panoramic guided tour of this enchanting capital. We will see many iconic sights including the Bastille, Latin Quarter, the Louvre, Concorde, Champs Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe with some short stops for photographs. After lunch on board, the afternoon is free for your own exploration. This evening there is dinner and dancing and, depending on the water level of the river, we may sail through La Defense neighbourhood before returning to our quay.
DAY 3: After breakfast we depart for a guided visit of Montmartre, with its superb views over the city and the beautiful Basilica of Sacré-Coeur. We return for lunch on board and a free afternoon. Tonight, we have a Gala Dinner on board with a cruise through Paris by night*.
DAY 4: Disembarking after breakfast, we travel back to Calais for our afternoon crossing to Dover. We then return to the local area and home.
Please note: For reasons of navigation and passenger safety, CroisiEurope reserve the right to modify the itinerary of the cruise. *Cruise depends on water level.
MS Botticelli
The MS Botticelli has 75 cabins all of which have private facilities and shower, and are equipped with TV, safe, hairdryer and air-conditioning. There is a delightful panoramic lounge with a dance floor and bar, a comfortable restaurant (set menu), and sundeck. There is no lift, and main deck cabins are accessed down stairs. www.croisieurope.co.uk
PARIS
Spring in Northumbria
Enjoy a spring visit to the beautiful Kingdom of Northumbria, filled with historic houses and castles, and dramatically beautiful scenery. We have broken our northward travel with a stay at the historic Old Swan Hotel in Harrogate, to make for a more relaxed and enjoyable journey.
DAY 1: After an early departure we travel via the Dartford Crossing up to Harrogate and our overnight hotel – The Old Swan. Our hotel is close to the centre of Harrogate, so you can have a stroll before dinner to have a look around this pretty town.
DAY 2: This morning we follow the route of the Great North Road and complete our journey up to Alnwick, arriving in time for a late lunch in town (not included). This historic market town retains much of its old-world charm, with cobbled streets, preserved market square and plenty of independent shops and cafés to choose from. Later in the afternoon we can check into our hotel and tonight, after dinner, there will be a quiz.
DAY 3: We travel up the Northumbria coast, with a stop at the pretty harbour of Seahouses. We then visit Howick Hall Gardens, where we can see two rooms of the Hall, the visitor centre and the beautiful gardens, hopefully awash with
daffodils. Enjoy tea and cake in the Earl Grey Tea House before returning to our hotel. This evening, you might like to take part in a game of bingo.
DAY 4: This morning we travel north and cross the causeway to Holy Island, home to the ruins of Lindisfarne Priory, founded in 635AD, and still an important site for pilgrims interested in its early Christian heritage. The island is also a thriving nature reserve and is renowned as a haven of tranquillity, with remarkable views across the wild coastal landscape. In the afternoon we visit Bamburgh to explore the magnificent castle, which has dominated the rocky plateau for over 1400 years. Before dinner tonight, enjoy a ‘Taste of Northumbria’ – a chance to sample local spirits, beers and liqueurs.
DAY 5: After a leisurely breakfast, we visit Cragside, the home of Lord Armstrong, Victorian inventor and landscape genius. The
6 Days from £745
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
‘Taste of Northumbria’
Tea & Cake Day 3
Howick Hall Gardens
Bamburgh Castle
Holy Island
Cragside
Excursions as Listed
house is famous for being the first home in the world to be powered by hydroelectricity, and is crammed with ingenious gadgets and fascinating artifacts. Tonight, enjoy our final dinner in Alnwick.
DAY 6: Departing our hotel, we head southwards via the pretty conservation town of Stamford, reaching the local area in the evening.
Please note: Solo travellers will have a twin/double bedroom for sole use at The White Swan, but may have a single room at The Old Swan in Harrogate. Order of evening inclusions may change.
White Swan Hotel
This three-star-standard 300-year-old coaching inn, situated right in the heart of Alnwick blends modern amenities with historic charm. The hotel is famous for housing the magnificent panelling, stained-glass windows and staircase from the Titanic’s sister ship. Bedrooms have TV, telephone (in some rooms), WiFi, ironing facilities, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is no lift, a few ground floor rooms are available, but there are steps throughout. www.classiclodges.co.uk
HOLY ISLAND
HOWICK HALL GARDENS
Red Rose Country
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Explore the stunning countryside and picturesque villages of Lancashire and the Ribble Valley, learning about the history, the famous witch trials and the wonderful countryside on the way.
Cream Tea Day 3
Pendle Guided Tour
Leighton Hall Estate
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: A morning departure to meet your tour coach, and then we travel north to Lancashire with suitable refreshment stops along the way.
DAY 2: Today we have a full-day guided tour of Pendle Hill Country, hearing about the infamous witches. We call at Barrowford Visitor Centre before heading over to Pendle Hill on our way to Clitheroe for our lunch break. We then drive through the ‘Britain in Bloom’ village of Chipping and on into the Hodder Valley. We take a break at the Riverside Tearooms before heading back to the hotel.
DAY 3: We travel to Bury where we can browse the world-famous Bury Market. Often voted market of the year, you’ll find over 350 stalls to visit! Afterwards, explore Bury at leisure and enjoy lunch. Later, we return to our hotel where we have an included cream tea and time to relax before dinner this evening.
DAY 4: This morning we journey to Leighton Hall Estate, an impressive grade II listed stately hall, and the family home of the famous Gillow furniture-making family who are still residents today. We have a guided tour and the chance to explore the famous collection of Gillow furniture, and the gardens. After our visit, we visit Lancaster for time at leisure before returning to the hotel.
DAY 5: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we make our way southwards, arriving in the local area late afternoon.
Foxfields Country Hotel HHH
Our three-star hotel is located in the heart of the beautiful Ribble Valley. The hotel features an award-winning restaurant and a leisure club with gym, swimming pool, sauna and steam room. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel does not have a lift, but some ground floor rooms are available. www.foxfieldshotel.com
Cotswold Animal Magic
A delightful tour for lovers of all things with feathers or fur as we meet exotic wild animals and a host of birdlife in two wonderful locations.
4 Days from £469
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
WWT Slimbridge Cotswold Wildlife Park Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We make our way to the pretty market town of Marlborough in Wiltshire in time to get some lunch. We then continue to our hotel to be greeted with tea and cookies.
DAY 2: This morning we travel into the Cotswolds and visit Burford, famous for its medieval architecture, including the pretty church and several historic buildings on the High Street. Our afternoon is spent at the remarkable Cotswold Wildlife Park, where you will find over 160 acres with botanic gardens, beautifully landscaped grounds and over 1000 animals including giraffes, rhinos, lemurs, penguins and lions.
DAY 3: Travelling west, we reach Slimbridge Wetland Centre – the wetland that inspired Sir Peter Scott to found the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust in 1946. Visit the Scott House Museum, discover a huge variety of birdlife, stroll through the Waterscapes Aviary or experience a talk or bird demonstration in the Living Wetland Centre. On our return, we visit Tetbury, well-known for its beautifully preserved Cotswold stone buildings and historic charm.
DAY 4: Departing after breakfast, we travel down to Winchester, where we have some free time, before continuing our journey home.
Please note: This tour is not suitable for the less mobile.
Doubletree by Hilton Swindon HHHH
Our four-star hotel is situated three miles from Swindon and features pleasant restaurant, bar, lounge and a well-equipped gym. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift. www.hilton.com
A tour exploring the beautiful house and gardens at Tyntesfield, UNESCO Heritage in Bath and maritime history in Bristol.
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We travel across country to Bradford-on-Avon for some free time for refreshments. We continue to our hotel north of Bristol in time to relax before dinner.
DAY 2: This morning we head for the Tyntesfield Estate, a spectacular Victorian Gothic Revival estate, which has been beautifully restored. Spiralling turrets and pinnacles adorn the roof, and ornate stone carvings give the feel of a fairytale mansion while terraced lawns give way to spacious parkland, and a wonderful walled kitchen garden. On our way back, we stop for views of Bristol’s famous suspension bridge in Clifton.
DAY 3: We visit Bristol’s historic harbour-side and the iconic steamship SS Great Britain. Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the ship lies at the heart of a multi-award-winning visitor attraction. You can tour the ship from the sumptuous surrounds of the First Class Dining Saloon to the cramped bunks in steerage. The afternoon is free in Bristol.
DAY 4: A Sunday in Bath, renowned for its Roman-built baths and Georgian architecture. The town is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, packed with historic buildings, including the stunning Abbey and the Royal Crescent. There are also many independent shops and a great variety of eateries for lunch.
DAY 5: We make our way homewards, with a stop in Marlborough over lunchtime, and reach the local area late afternoon.
Aztec Hotel & Spa HHHH
Our modern four-star hotel is to the north of Bristol and offers comfortable accommodation and leisure facilities which include swimming pool, steam room, Jacuzzi, sauna and gym. Bedrooms are equipped with TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift. www.aztechotelbristol.com
Castles & Gardens of Kent
5 Days from £565
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Leeds Castle
Walmer Castle
Excursions as Listed
An opportunity to explore the history and beautiful scenery of Kent, where kings and bishops have left their mark with stunning architecture in amongst medieval towns and villages.
DAY 1: We travel east to Royal Tunbridge Wells for free time for lunch and a look around the famous Pantiles, before continuing to our hotel outside Ashford.
DAY 2: Our day is spent in Canterbury, where you can explore the fascinating history of the city. You might like to visit the Roman Museum, St Augustine’s Abbey, the UNESCO site of Canterbury Cathedral or stroll through the Franciscan Gardens by the Great Stour (entrances not included).
DAY 3: We head out this morning to Leeds Castle, often referred to as ‘the loveliest castle in the world’. Set on two islands within a beautiful lake, the castle dates back to the 12th Century and has well-preserved interiors showcasing the grandeur of various periods. There are 500 acres of gorgeous grounds including a maze, magnificent formal gardens and woodland to explore, and several places in which to purchase your lunch.
DAY 4: We visit Walmer Castle, which was once a Tudor artillery fortress that became a country retreat for the Lords Warden of the Cinque Ports, including the Iron Duke of Wellington. Discover over eight acres of glorious gardens, a mix of formal and informal styles, or relax in the late Queen Mother’s Garden, a tranquil haven in a busy world. We also visit the charming coastal town of Deal, known for its beautiful seafront, historic landmarks and relaxed atmosphere.
DAY 5: We return via the medieval town of Rye, with cobbled streets, historic buildings, quirky shops, tearooms, pubs and plenty of scenic views. Early afternoon we continue our journey to the local area and home.
Ashford International Hotel HHHH
Our modern four-star hotel lies outside Ashford, and has excellent leisure facilities including swimming pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, steam room, gym and beauty treatment spa. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift. www.ashfordhotel.co.uk
WALMER CASTLE
Ironbridge & Shropshire
Isles of Scilly 2026
We will be visiting these gorgeous islands in 2026
Please register your interest by phoning 01243 868080 or emailing info@woodstravel.co.uk
5 Days from £645
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Explore this stunning part of the country which has beautiful scenery, historic towns, and tranquil, winding rivers to cruise upon. The world-famous Iron Bridge is less than 10 minutes’ walk down the river from the hotel.
Cream Tea Day 2
Blists Hill
St Mary’s Church Tour
Sabrina Cruise
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We make our way towards Telford and our hotel with suitable refreshment stops along the way.
DAY 2: A day in Shrewsbury, beginning with free time to explore and get some lunch. In the afternoon, we enjoy a 45-minute cruise on board Sabrina as she sails around the picturesque River Severn Loop, followed by a tour and cream tea at St Mary’s Church.
DAY 3: We travel along pretty Wenlock Edge, via Craven Arms to Ludlow, where you have free time to explore this pretty market town with its black & white timber-frame buildings. Mid-afternoon, we make our way back to our hotel with time to relax before dinner.
DAY 4: A morning visit to Blists Hill, a fascinating recreation of a Victorian town complete with staff in authentic costume. The afternoon is free in Ironbridge, one of the most important centres of the industrial revolution and now a delightful town of shops, tea rooms and, of course, the iconic bridge.
DAY 5: Leaving our hotel after breakfast we make our way to Cirencester with time for refreshments and sightseeing before continuing home.
The Valley Hotel HHH
In the stunning Ironbridge Gorge, on the banks of the River Severn, this beautifully preserved Georgian country house offers lovely accommodation, pleasant bar and terrace, and an award-winning restaurant. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer, and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel has a lift to a few bedrooms only, and some on the ground floor. www.thevalleyhotel.co.uk
BLISTS HILL
7 Days from £799
INCLUSIONS
Heartland of Wales Easter
DAY 1: We travel by coach across country and into Wales and have a lunch stop close to Tintern Abbey. We continue up the Wye Valley, across the Black Mountains of the Brecon Beacons National Park to our hotel in Llandrindod Wells for our six-night stay.
DAY 2: A free day to enjoy Llandrindod Wells, with its pretty park overlooking the River Ithon, and many shops and cafés in which to relax. You might like to visit the beautiful Llandrindod Lake, the National Cycle Collection or the Radnorshire Museum for a look into Llandrindod’s distant past.
DAY 3: This morning we travel along the beautiful Elan Valley with a stop at the visitor centre, overlooked by the dramatic dam and reservoirs. We have included a light lunch and time to explore before continuing to Gigrin Farm, in beautiful countryside overlooking both the Wye and the Elan Valleys. This family-run farm is now famous for the Red Kite Feeding Centre, and we enter specially constructed
hides to witness the breathtaking spectacle of hundreds of wild red kites coming to feed. (Order of day may change.)
DAY 4: A wonderful tour through the Wye Valley to Devil’s Bridge. Our destination is famous for its waterfalls and the three stacked bridges. Walk the 5-10 minutes down to the viewing platform or explore the station gift shop and Two Hoots Tearoom.* We board the Vale of Rheidol Heritage Railway for a scenic journey through 12 miles of stunning Welsh scenery, with the possibility of seeing red kites gliding through the skies along the way. At journey’s end, we have some free time in Aberystwyth to explore. We return to our hotel by coach.
DAY 5: We travel to Aberglasney Gardens, where we have free time to explore the 10 acres of magnificent gardens, with 20 different garden styles from formal to woodland to exotic and modern. Don’t miss
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Lunch Day 3
Devil’s Bridge
Vale of Rheidol Railway
Red Kite Feeding Centre
Aberglasney Gardens
Elan Valley Visitor Centre
Excursions as Listed
the heart of the gardens – a fully restored Elizabethan Cloister Garden that is the only surviving example of its kind in the UK today. There is also time to visit the lovely tearooms overlooking the Pool Garden.
DAY 6: Another free day to relax in Llandrindod Wells. Alternatively, join your driver on a half day excursion to Hay-on-Wye, a pretty town famous for its wealth of second-hand book shops.
DAY 7: Leaving our hotel after breakfast we travel across the border and visit Ledbury, one of the beautiful black-and-white towns of the area, before continuing our journey to the local area, reaching our taxis late afternoon.
Please note: *The walk to the viewing platform is not suitable for the less mobile.
Metropole Hotel HHHH
Our four-star hotel is located in the centre of the historic spa town of Llandrindod Wells. As well as comfortable lounges, bar and Radnor & Miles Restaurant, enjoy the 18m indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, whirlpool and gym. Bedrooms have TV, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has WiFi and a lift. www.metropole.co.uk
ELAN VALLEY
Explore the magnificent gardens and hidden valleys of the Cambrian mountains, from our base in the Victorian Spa town of Llandrindod Wells.
VALE OF RHEIDOL RAILWAY
Sidmouth Easter
A lovely spring visit to the Royal York & Faulkner Hotel, overlooking the waters of Lyme Bay on the Regency promenade at Sidmouth, a town with old world charm and delightful gardens.
5 Days from £675
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Tea/Cake Day 3
Light Lunch Day 4
Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary
Bicton Park Botanical Gardens
Seaton Tramway Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We make our way into Dorset, stopping in Bournemouth for lunch. On into Devon, we arrive at our hotel in the afternoon.
DAY 2: After breakfast we drive to Bicton Park Botanical Gardens. Set in Devon’s Otter Valley, the Grade I listed gardens are a product of almost 300 years of horticultural history and we have included the gardens, glass houses and a ride on the woodland railway. Later, we continue along the East Devon Heritage Coast to Exmouth.
DAY 3: A day at leisure to enjoy this beautiful Regency town with Easter tea and cake at your hotel. You might like to join your driver for a half-day excursion to Lyme Regis, but please note that Lyme Regis has very steep roads.
DAY 4: Today we visit Seaton and the famous Seaton Tramway for a three-mile journey by narrow gauge tram through the glorious Axe Valley, through two nature reserves to Colyton. We have an included soup and sandwich lunch at the Tramway Café. In the afternoon we visit Sidmouth’s famous Donkey Sanctuary.
DAY 5: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we travel home via Dorchester. We reach the local area late afternoon.
Royal York & Faulkner Hotel HHH
A magnificent Regency building, enjoying an unrivalled position on Sidmouth's elegant Esplanade, this family-run hotel is ideally located directly overlooking the sea and adjacent to the picturesque town centre. All rooms offer TV, telephone, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is WiFi and a lift, but with some steps throughout. www.royalyorkhotel.co.uk
Easter Gardens of Suffolk
Join us on this delightful trip to Suffolk, to see all things floral. We have included visits to two beautiful gardens, we meet owls, cruise on the Orwell and visit a wonderful garden show*.
5 Days from £719
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
RHS Hyde Hall
Suffolk Garden Show*
Beth Chatto Garden
Suffolk Owl Sanctuary
River Orwell Cruise
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We travel east via the Dartford Crossing, and after suitable refreshment stops, we reach our hotel late afternoon in time to relax before dinner.
DAY 2: We spend the morning exploring the heritage, medieval architecture and elegant Georgian squares of Bury St Edmunds. In the afternoon we visit the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, with over 80 owls & birds of prey, meerkats, red squirrels and porcupines - something for everyone!
DAY 3: This morning we make the journey to Beth Chatto Gardens, six acres of beautiful gardens created from an overgrown wasteland with planting led by Beth Chatto's mantra 'The right plant for the right place'. This afternoon we enjoy a two-hour return cruise along the River Orwell.
DAY 4: Today we visit The Suffolk Garden Show*, showcasing the best of gardening, food and drink, crafts and outside pursuits of all kinds. Get top tips from the gardening experts, shop handmade crafts and country homewares, stroll through the plant zone or enjoy the live music & entertainment throughout the day.
DAY 5: We depart after breakfast for our journey home. On the way we visit the wonderful RHS Garden Hyde Hall, with its eclectic mix of traditional and modern with a fine dry garden, rose garden and glorious herbaceous borders. We continue to the local area and home.
Please note: *Dates for the 2026 Garden Show are yet to be confirmed.
Stoke by Nayland Hotel HHHH
This family-run four-star hotel sits in its own grounds in beautiful Suffolk countryside. The modern hotel is comfortable and stylish, overlooks the rolling scenery of the golf course and has leisure facilities which include swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, sanarium and spa with treatment rooms. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, ironing facilities, hairdryer, safe and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift. www.stokebynayland.com
SEATON TRAMWAY
RHS HYDE HALL
4 Days from £699
INCLUSIONS
Trams, Boats & Bulbs
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
4 Days from £745
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Glorious Keukenhof, Gouda & Delft
Coffee & Pastry Day 2
Keukenhof Gardens
Steam Tram
Museum Ship Cruise Excursions as Listed
Enjoy a delightful spring weekend break with a distinctive Dutch flavour visiting the magnificent, worldfamous gardens at Keukenhof. We also have an included trip through time by steam tram and on a museum ship cruise.
DAY 1: We make our way to Dover for a mid-morning crossing to Calais. We then travel through Belgium and into Holland, arriving at our hotel late afternoon.
DAY 2: Our incredible day begins with a drive to Hoorn where we board the steam tram for our journey through lovely Dutch countryside to Medemblik, with coffee and pastries served on board. After some free time to explore this historic town, we board the museum ship Friesland for a 1½ hour-cruise to Enkhuizen, where we are met by our coach. We continue on the incredible 27km dyke across Ijsselmeer, the largest inland lake in Western Europe. We then cross the Polder and travel back to our hotel.
DAY 3: After breakfast, we leave for a full day excursion to the worldfamous Keukenhof Gardens. Over 70 acres of parkland contain a vast collection of hundreds of thousands of flowers displayed in beautifully landscaped gardens.
DAY 4: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we travel west and have a stop along the way. We continue to Calais to catch our late afternoon crossing to Dover, and then continue home.
Kontakt der Kontinenten HHH (Netherlands)
Our three-star hotel is a former mission house and monastery, located in the Soesterberg Heuvelrug National Park, 40 miles south of Amsterdam. Tea and coffee are available at all times in the lounge, and there is a pleasant bar, restaurant and a terrace with views of the forest. Bedrooms have TV, telephone and WiFi. The hotel has a lift. www.kontaktderkontinenten.nl
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Keukenhof
Royal Delft Museum Excursions as Listed
April in The Netherlands is a dream of bright colours and beautiful scents as the famous bulbfields burst into bloom. Enjoy the wonderful gardens at Keukenhof, and try something new in Gouda and Delft, a beautiful town criss-crossed with café-lined canals.
DAY 1: We travel to Dover for our Channel crossing to Dunkirk. From here we take the motorways across France and Belgium and into The Netherlands, reaching our hotel on the edge of Alphen ann den Rijn late afternoon.
DAY 2: We visit the world famous Keukenhof Gardens, with plenty of time to enjoy the gardens created in 1949 as a showpiece for the Dutch flower industry, and to walk among the magnificent displays of tulips and other bulbs which bloom in their millions.
DAY 3: Today we visit Gouda, a pretty town famous for its cheese and its delicious syrup waffles. We then make our way to Delft – a miniature Amsterdam with its own canals and famous chinaware, and we have an included visit to the Royal Delft Museum.
DAY 4: On our return journey we visit Antwerp, with free time for shopping and lunch. We then travel back to Dunkirk for our afternoon sea crossing. We reach the local area early evening.
Van der Valk Hotel Avifauna HHHH (Netherlands)
Our four-star hotel lies in the middle of the green heart of Holland, and is in the perfect position for reaching the famous gardens, bulbfields and towns of this tour. The hotel has restaurant, bar and a lift. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, safe, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. www.vandervalkavifauna.nl
HOORN STEAM TRAM
5 Days from £859
INCLUSIONS
Dutch Tulip River Cruise
this tour we combine the
of
DAY 1: We travel to Dover for the Channel crossing to Dunkirk. We make our way to Amsterdam and join the MS La Boheme in, or close to, the city at around 6pm. Enjoy a cocktail with the crew before dinner.
DAY 2: Breakfast on board before free time in Amsterdam. After lunch on board, we depart by coach to Zaanse Schans, an open-air museum to admire over 100 typical wooden houses, windmills and warehouses dating back to the 17th and 18th Centuries. Return on board for dinner, staying in Wijk Bij Duurstede.
DAY 3: After a morning’s cruising toward Rotterdam, we leave for our visit to the glorious Keukenhof Gardens, with time to enjoy the amazing tulip, narcissi and hyacinth displays. The gardens are beautifully arranged with themed pavilions, pathways, and lakes, creating a vibrant, colourful landscape that attracts
millions of visitors each year. Tonight, on board is a Gala Evening.
DAY 4: We spend our day sailing toward Antwerp, seeing wonderful views, traversing immense locks and sailing through the inland sea. In Antwerp, the ship’s hostess will then lead an exploration of the old city. Antwerp boasts beautiful architecture, including the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Antwerp Central Station, often regarded as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world.
DAY 5: Breakfast on board before disembarkation. We make our way to Dunkirk to take our afternoon sailing to Dover, where we travel by coach and taxi to our homes.
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Full Board
Drinks Package on Board*
Keukenhof Gardens
Excursions as Listed
MS La Boheme
Part of the CroisiEurope fleet of river cruisers, the MS La Boheme has 79 en-suite cabins on two decks with TV, hairdryer and safe. Facilities include lounge-bar with dance floor, comfortable restaurant (set menu) and sundeck. There is no lift, and main deck cabins are accessed down stairs. www.croisieurope.co.uk
Please note: For reasons of navigation and passenger safety, CroisiEurope reserve the right to modify the itinerary of the cruise. *All drinks during meals and at the bar are included. Not included: Champagne, Perrier, wine from the wine list, drinks on excursions.
KEUKENHOF GARDENS
ZAANSE SCHANS
On
wonders
the Dutch Bulbfields and Keukenhof in spring, the vibrant city of Amsterdam, and the historic village of Zaanse Schans, all while taking pleasure in the wonderful food, comfort and hospitality of CroisiEurope.
MS LA BOHEME
Springtime in Cornwall
Cornwall is a land of dramatic rocky cliff sides, hidden harbours, delightful fishing villages, glorious gardens and lush countryside all coming together to make one of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK. St Agnes sits in both a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a World Heritage Site.
DAY 1: We drive west, making a couple of stops along the way, and arrive at our hotel in St Agnes late afternoon. Our home for the next five nights is a compact little village with pubs, restaurants, beaches and some stunning coastal walks.
DAY 2: A morning in the coastal town of St Ives with its cobbled streets winding between tiny fishermen’s cottages. The town has a worldfamous art scene and is home to the Barbara Hepworth Museum and the Tate St Ives. Your afternoon is free in St Agnes.
DAY 3: Today we begin at Padstow, a delightful little port, nestling on the beautiful Camel Estuary, with a colourful harbour surrounded by pastel-washed medieval houses. In the afternoon we visit Pencarrow House & Gardens, tucked away on the edge of Bodmin Moor and
a family home for almost 500 years. We enjoy a guided tour of the house and have time to explore the gardens and visit the Peacock Café.
DAY 4: A visit to the famous Lost Gardens of Heligan, which now cover 57 acres with an impressive range of plant breeds and features, including an Italian garden and a sub-tropical ‘jungle’ valley. We have an introductory talk before free time to explore. This afternoon we visit Truro, Cornwall’s cathedral city.
DAY 5: We visit the remarkable Eden Project, which has new delights every season. The Rainforest Biome is always fascinating and the sights and scents of the Mediterranean Biome houses beautiful flower displays and seasonal crops. The vast outdoor gardens are home to over 20 plant-based exhibits, colourful seasonal borders and art installations.
6 Days from £745
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Pencarrow House
Lost Gardens of Heligan
Eden Project
Excursions as Listed
DAY 6: We travel east with suitable refreshment stops, reaching the local area late afternoon.
Rosemundy House Hotel HHH
This delightful and elegant hotel has been tastefully extended and is set in its own secluded gardens and woodland, and only 100 yards from the main street of the unspoilt village of St Agnes. All bedrooms have TV, telephone, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has WiFi in the lounges, does not have a lift, but some ground floor rooms are available. www.rosemundy.co.uk
ST IVES
PENCARROW HOUSE
Lakes & Dales
Join us on a wonderful scenic tour through the dramatic countryside of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the wonderful Lake District.
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Windermere Cruise
Lakeside & Haverthwaite
Railway
Bolton Castle
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We make our way north, with suitable refreshment stops along the way and arrive at our hotel near Shap late afternoon, with time to relax before dinner.
DAY 2: Today’s tour will take in some of the beautiful countryside of the Yorkshire Dales. We first drive to the picturesque town of Richmond where we have free time. We re-join our coach and make the journey to Bolton Castle, where about one third of the rooms are fully intact and the grounds of the Castle is almost completely accessible giving visitors great insight into its history. We return to our hotel along Garsdale.
DAY 3: We travel through Kendal to Lake Windermere and Bowness. We have time to look around and relax by the lake before we take a cruise along the lake to the southern tip at Lakeside. We then join the delightful Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway for a steam train ride before we rejoin our coach and head off back over the fells to the hotel.
DAY 4: We head towards Penrith and then to Ullswater, regarded by many as the most beautiful of all the lakes. We have a short break in Glenridding and then continue over rugged Kirkstone Pass to Ambleside, Lake Thirlmere and Keswick, on the shores of Derwentwater. Here we have time for lunch and to explore the town.
DAY 5: Departing after breakfast, we make our way homewards with suitable refreshment stops along the way, arriving in the local area early evening.
Please note: Bolton Castle is not suitable for the less mobile due to uneven floors and spiral staircases.
Shap Wells Hotel HHH
This splendid hotel which dates from 1833, lies in 30 acres of private grounds in a wooded valley, high in the Shap Fells. There are extensive bar and lounge areas in which to relax, and bedrooms are equipped with TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. Some bedrooms are accessible by lift. www.shapwells.com
Chatsworth & Warner’s Thoresby Hall
We return to the excellent Warner’s hotel at Thoresby Hall, allowing you to see the best of the Peak District National Park and also have time to enjoy the huge range of activities and entertainment for which Warner’s are so famous.
5 Days from £699
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Entertainment & Activity Programme
Chatsworth House
Crich Tramway Village
National Memorial Arboretum
Excursions as Listed
Please see notes on page 8
DAY 1: We travel north with suitable refreshment stops along the way. We reach our Warner’s hotel near Nottingham in time to relax before dinner.
DAY 2: This morning we travel back in time at Crich Tramway Village, home to the National Tramway Museum. You can enjoy unlimited rides on the world-renowned trams through the lovingly restored period village. The afternoon is free to enjoy Thoresby.
DAY 3: Spend the morning exploring the city of Lincoln, with free time to visit the many interesting shops or visit the magnificent cathedral, one of Europe’s finest Gothic buildings (entry not included). The afternoon is free for you to explore the activities and facilities at Thoresby Hall.
DAY 4: We visit the Peak District National Park and Chatsworth House, home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. Visit the house with many wonderful works of art, the chapel, farm and the gardens with rare trees, temples, sculptures, fountains, streams and ponds.
DAY 5: We make our way south, with a stop to visit the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire. We then continue toward the local area making a suitable refreshment stop along the way.
Warner’s Thoresby Hall
The majestic, four-star-standard, Thoresby Hall Hotel and Spa is a Grade 1 listed mansion in 30 acres of beautifully landscaped Victorian gardens on the edge of Sherwood Forest. Leisure facilities include swimming pool, sauna, steam room, gym, croquet, putting green and much more! There is a café, two bars, a library and you can enjoy entertainment every evening and a full programme of activities during the day. Our bedrooms are in the new wing and have TV, telephone, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is WiFi and a lift to some rooms. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk
CHATSWORTH HOUSE
Norfolk Paddle & Steam
The county of Norfolk offers a rich historical heritage, charming villages, abundant wildlife and varied landscapes, including the famous Broads - a unique and picturesque part of the county. We explore the area on two wonderful heritage trainlines, by Mississippi Paddle Boat, by coach on a scenic drive to the coast, and visit both Holkham and Felbrigg Halls.
DAY 1: We travel north to the cathedral town of Ely where we stop for refreshments. The town boasts a beautiful cathedral, Thomas Cromwell’s House and pleasant walks along the River Great Ouse. We continue to our hotel near Norwich arriving late afternoon.
DAY 2: This morning we have a guided tour of Norwich, and the afternoon is free for your own exploration. You could visit the impressive Norman cathedral, Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery, or walk along the River Wensum. Alternatively, stroll through the Lanes, the maze of narrow, cobbled streets are lined with independent shops, cafés and boutiques.
DAY 3: A scenic drive today via Fakenham to Holt. Here we take a steam train journey on the North Norfolk Railway – The Poppy Line to Sheringham, running through beautiful Norfolk
countryside in heritage carriages. We continue to Felbrigg Hall, home to well-preserved interiors and a fascinating collection which is one of the largest in the National Trust. We have access to the 17th-century house and extensive gardens.
DAY 4: A day out steaming and cruising through the Broads. We travel to Aylsham to join the Bure Valley Railway for the 9-mile nostalgic journey through the Norfolk countryside, ending at Wroxham, the Gateway to The Broads. There is free time to get something to eat before we transfer to Horning to board the Southern Comfort, a Mississippi paddle boat for a 1½-hour cruise, exploring the beautiful network of rivers, lakes and waterways known as The Broads.
6 Days from £799
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
North Norfolk Railway
Felbrigg Hall
Holkham Hall
Bure Valley Railway
Paddle Boat Broads Cruise
Norwich Guided Tour Excursions as Listed
DAY 5: Today we visit Holkham Hall, a breathtaking 18th-century house on the coast, which has been home to the Earls of Leicester for over 400 years. The Hall has a fascinating history, an outstanding art collection, and wonderful panoramic landscapes.
DAY 6: Leaving after breakfast, we travel via Lavenham, with its many half-timbered buildings dating from the 15th Century. We arrive in the local area late afternoon.
Dunston Hall Hotel HHHH
A majestic, Elizabethan-style mansion, built in 1859 and lovingly restored to its former glory, set in 150 acres of beautiful, wooded Norfolk parkland. All bedrooms have TV, telephone, hairdryer, ironing facilities and hospitality tray. The hotel also has a state-of-the-art gym, indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room. The hotel has WiFi and a lift to most rooms. www.dunstonhallhotel.co.uk
MISSISSIPPI PADDLEBOAT
FELBRIGG HALL
NORTH NORFOLK RAILWAY
Treasures in Trust: Suffolk
National Trust Members’ Tour: Explore Suffolk, visit four wonderful National Trust properties and discover Constable Country.
DAY 1: We travel east via the Dartford Crossing, and after suitable refreshment stops, we reach our hotel late afternoon in time to relax before dinner.
5 Days from £664*
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Blue Badge Guide Day 4
Ickworth House
Sutton Hoo
Chartwell
Lavenham Guildhall
Flatford
Excursions as Listed
*Please see notes on page 8
DAY 2: We spend the morning exploring the heritage, medieval architecture and elegant Georgian squares of Bury St Edmunds. We then continue to Ickworth House (NT), built as an Italian-style showcase for the Hervey family’s collections of Georgian silver, Regency furniture, books and fine paintings, all set within beautiful grounds.
DAY 3: This morning we visit Sutton Hoo (NT), the subject of the film ‘The Dig’. The exhibition hall houses a full-size reconstruction of the AngloSaxon burial chamber from the ship grave discovered in 1939. We then continue to the coast and the pretty town of Aldeburgh for free time.
DAY 4: Today we spend the day with our excellent Blue Badge Guide to tour Constable Country and to visit Lavenham Guildhall (NT) and Flatford (NT) in the heart of Dedham Vale.
DAY 5: We depart after breakfast for our journey home. On the way we visit Chartwell (NT), much-loved home of Sir Winston Churchill. We continue to the local area to meet our taxis.
Please note: Some of these properties will not be fully accessible to those with limited mobility.
Stoke by Nayland Hotel HHHH
This family-run four-star hotel sits in its own grounds in beautiful Suffolk countryside. The modern hotel is comfortable and stylish, overlooks the rolling scenery of the golf course and has leisure facilities which include swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, sanarium and spa with treatment rooms. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, ironing facilities, hairdryer, safe and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift. www.stokebynayland.com
Bournemouth
A lovely tour based in the iconic seaside town of Bournemouth with visits to explore beautiful gardens, the southern coastline and gorgeous Dorset scenery.
5 Days from £649
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Cream Tea Day 4
Compton Acres
Poole Vintage Cruise
Swanage Railway
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: Making our way through Hampshire and the New Forest, we have a stop in Lyndhurst where you will be able to get lunch. We continue to our hotel in Bournemouth to be greeted with tea or coffee.
DAY 2: Today we visit Swanage via Sandbanks and enjoy a return heritage train ride on the Swanage Railway to Norden through the Purbeck Hills with views of the ruins of Corfe Castle along the way. We then have some free time to stroll along the promenade at Swanage or visit the shops before we return to Bournemouth.
DAY 3: A free day to enjoy Bournemouth. Your driver will take you into the town centre in the morning if you wish.
DAY 4: After a leisurely breakfast, we travel to Compton Acres, acknowledged as one of the finest privately-owned gardens in England. In the afternoon we transfer to Poole Quay where we have a 90-minute cruise around the harbour aboard the Dorset Queen, a 1938 vintage motor yacht and enjoy a Dorset cream tea on board.
DAY 5: Departing mid-morning, we travel the short distance to Wimborne, before making our way back to the local area and home.
Marsham Court Hotel HHHH
Our family-run four-star hotel is situated on the East Cliff, with awardwinning garden frontage and terraces overlooking the bay. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, safe, ironing facilities, fridge, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is a lift to all floors but not all rooms can be accessed with no stairs. There is some evening entertainment. www.marshamcourthotel.co.uk
BOURNEMOUTH
DUMFRIES
Carlisle, Ullswater & Hadrian’s Wall
5 Days from £699
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Annandale Distillery
Ullswater Steamer
Birdoswald Roman Fort
Excursions as Listed
A wonderfully historic area of the UK, where we discover 2nd-century Romans, Scottish poets, whisky and one of our most beautiful lakes by steamer.
DAY 1: We travel north, with suitable refreshment stops, arriving at our hotel in Carlisle late afternoon.
DAY 2: Today we cross the border and visit Dumfries, where you might like to visit Robert Burns’ House and see how the poet lived (Free entry), enjoy a stroll along the River Nith, or find a café or pub for refreshments. Later we visit Annandale Distillery, famous for its small batch, high quality whisky. We have a tour and receive a small gift to enjoy at home.
DAY 3: A morning visit to Birdoswald Roman Fort, a remarkable site on the longest stretch of Hadrian’s Wall still visible. The afternoon is free to explore Carlisle. You could visit the 900-year-old castle (entrance not included), the stunning cathedral or stroll in Bitts Park on the River Eden.
DAY 4: Today we drive into the Lake District National Park to take a steamer trip on Lake Ullswater, from Pooley Bridge in the north to Glenridding in the south. We then drive up across Matterdale to Penrith for some free time to explore.
DAY 5: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we return to the south, reaching the local area early evening.
Crown & Mitre Hotel HHH
Our three-star hotel stands in the centre of Carlisle and offers a perfect mix of Edwardian grandeur and beautiful original features, including an elegant sweeping staircase. There is a comfortable bar and restaurant, and the hotel has a swimming pool and Jacuzzi. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel has a lift, but there are some steps throughout. www.peelhotels.co.uk
HIGHLAND RAILWAY 5 Days from £655
Great Little Trains of Wales
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Welsh Highland Railway
Llanberis Lake Railway
Ffestiniog Railway
Portmeirion
Excursions as Listed
Caernarfon is our base for this magical journey into railway nostalgia in the Snowdonia National Park. We travel on the Welsh Highland Railway including the Aberglaslyn Pass, and we also take to the rails on old favourites Ffestiniog and Llanberis, and visit the remarkable village of Portmeirion.
DAY 1: We travel west across England and into Wales, reaching our hotel in Caernarfon late afternoon.
DAY 2: A fabulous day today as we board the Welsh Highland Railway for a journey along its entire 25-mile length, travelling through the magnificent Aberglaslyn Pass and wonderfully dramatic Welsh scenery all the way to Porthmadog. We return to our hotel by coach.
DAY 3: Today we travel to the famous Italianate village of Portmeirion. The setting for the TV show ‘The Prisoner’, the village stands on a rugged clifftop overlooking Cardigan Bay. We then transfer to Porthmadog to board the Ffestiniog Railway for a dramatically scenic ride over the mountains to Blaenau Ffestiniog. Our coach then takes us on a scenic drive via Betws-y-Coed.
DAY 4: We drive to Llanberis in the shadow of Mount Snowdon and join the Llanberis Lake Railway for a ride along the lake shore. This afternoon you can have free time in Caernarfon or take a ride on the Snowdon Mountain Railway to Clogwyn, a dramatic and beautiful journey, but very weather dependent. (Approx £34. Must be requested when booking).
DAY 5: Leaving Caernarfon after breakfast, we travel homewards making suitable refreshment stops along the way.
Please note: Train timetables are not yet released, therefore order of days may change.
Celtic Royal Hotel HHH
The three-star Celtic Royal Hotel stands in the centre of Caernarfon, just a short walk from Caernarfon Castle. Leisure facilities include swimming pool, gym, sauna, bubble pool and steam room. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a bar, lounges, split level restaurant and a lift, although there are a few isolated steps. www.celtic-royal.co.uk
WELSH
Somerset Explorer
Experience the scenery of Somerset including the Quantock Hills, Bridgwater Bay and venture along the North Devon coast on this delightful holiday.
5 Days from £685
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Hestercombe House & Gardens
West Somerset Railway Stoberry Park Gardens
Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We travel to Somerset making suitable refreshment stops along the way.
DAY 2: A free morning in Minehead, before we head to Taunton, with time to explore and get some lunch. In the afternoon, we visit historic Hestercombe House and Gardens. After dinner tonight we have a quiz.
DAY 3: A wonderful day on Britain’s longest standard-gauge heritage railway for a forty-mile return journey winding through glorious Somerset countryside and the Bristol Channel coastline. At Bishops Lydeard, we rejoin our coach to make the short journey to Monkton Elms Garden Centre, for free time to get some lunch. We return to Bishops Lydeard for the return journey to Minehead.
DAY 4: We drive into Devon, through Exmoor National Park to Lynmouth, a picturesque resort with narrow streets and the option to ride the cliff railway to Lynton. In the afternoon, we visit the delightful harbour town of Ilfracombe. Tonight, we have live entertainment.
DAY 5: Following breakfast, journey to the beautiful Stoberry Park Gardens in Wells for breathtaking vistas over the city and the Vale of Avalon, as well as six-acres of sympathetically designed gardens featuring wildlife ponds, water features, sculptures, a walled and rose garden, and lots of spring flowers. After some free time in Wells, we continue our journey home.
Northfield Hotel HHH
The hotel is located on the lower slopes of Northhill in Minehead, in nearly 2 acres of landscaped gardens reputed to have been laid out by Gertrude Jekyll. Leisure facilities include swimming pool, gym, and steam room. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, hairdryer, and hospitality tray. The hotel has free WiFi and a lift. www.northfield-hotel.co.uk
Taste of Wales at The Tynedale
We have been very lucky to secure space at the renowned Tynedale Hotel. Designed with food lovers in mind, our tour includes special Welsh breakfasts daily, delicious Welsh delicacies, and cabaret entertainment every evening, including a performance by an award-winning male voice choir.
5 Days from £729
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
8 Course Tasting Menu
Tea & Cake Day 4
Penderyn Talk & Tasting
Male Voice Choir
Plas Newydd House & Garden
Bodnant Garden
Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Excursions as Listed
DAY 1: We travel northwards and into Wales, arriving in Llandudno late afternoon to settle into our wonderful hotel, with tea and bara brith.
DAY 2: This morning we have a drive along the coast and then into the wild and rugged Snowdonia National Park. Later, we visit Bodnant Garden, spanning some 80 acres above the River Conwy, and stop at Bodnant Welsh Food, for your culinary souvenirs. Tonight, we have an eight course Welsh tasting menu at our hotel!
DAY 3: Our excursion today is to the Isle of Anglesey, across the Menai Strait. We visit Plas Newydd, where you can explore the charming house, and the gardens with their spectacular views of Snowdon and the Strait. We then go to Beaumaris, an historic town with medieval castle, gaol and courthouse. Back at our hotel, we have an interesting talk and delicious tasting from the Penderyn Distillery.
DAY 4: A free morning in Llandudno, where we have included tickets for the Hop-on-Hop-off bus, for exploration of the town and nearby Conwy. Make sure you return to our hotel mid-afternoon for included tea and cake. This evening, a performance by the Maelgwn Male Voice Choir.
DAY 5: Departing after breakfast, we make our way home.
Please note: Order of days/inclusions may change.
Tynedale Hotel HHHH
Our wonderful hotel offers four-star accommodation and is centrally located on Llandudno’s iconic Victorian promenade, just 20 metres from the beach and a short walk from the High Street and the pier. Each bedroom is unique and has TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is a lift to most rooms. www.tynedalehotel.co.uk
LLANDUDNO
Gorgeous Guernsey by Air
DAY 1: We travel by Woods coach to Southampton/Gatwick Airport for our flight to Guernsey. On arrival you are met by a local coach and transferred to our hotel in the Parish of Vale.
DAY 2: Today join your local driver for a half day excursion to see some of this beautiful island. At the end of our tour, you will have the option of returning to the hotel at lunchtime, or being dropped in St Peter Port for some exploration or retail therapy. If you choose this option, you will need to return to our hotel independently by bus or taxi (not included).
DAY 3: A free day. Your Woods Tour Escort is on hand to give you some ideas for where to visit and what to see. Our hotel is on the main bus route into St Peter Port and all around the island.
DAY 4: This morning we board the catamaran from St Peter Port to the small island of Herm. There will be time to walk to Shell Beach or relax in the village of Herm Harbour, where there are a few restaurants, shops and a tavern. Depending on tides, there may be some steps to negotiate either on boarding in St Peter Port or on the return journey mid-afternoon.
DAY 5: A second free day. Your Woods Tour Escort may be able to arrange an optional visit to the peaceful island of Sark (not included).
DAY 6: Depending on flight times, you may have a few hours to stroll along the beach before we are transferred by local coach to the airport. At Southampton/Gatwick your Woods coach will be waiting to bring you back home.
5 Nights from £1165
INCLUSIONS
Door to Door Service
Half Board
One Half Day Excursion
Boat Trip to Herm Woods Tour Escort
Peninsula Hotel HHHH
The Peninsula is a firm favourite with Woods clients and the directors, who return to this perfectly located hotel again and again. Sitting in its own grounds on a grassy peninsula leading to a sandy bay on the north-west coast, the hotel commands wonderful views. A regular and scenic bus service connects you with St Peter Port, the island capital. There is a spacious lounge, bar, pleasant restaurant, and there is a lift. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. www.peninsula.gg
Please note: On this tour, Woods Travel act as retail agents for Destination Specialists (ATOL 9503). The holiday can only be booked directly with Woods Travel, not through agents.
ST PETER PORT
SARK
Nestled in the Bay of St Malo, the Channel Islands are a peaceful haven from modern stresses. Guernsey, the second largest island, is small, friendly and is fringed with rocky cliff walks on one side and wide sandy beaches on the other.
HERM
6 Days from £794
INCLUSIONS
Secrets of Luxembourg
DAY 1: We travel to Dover for the short sea crossing to France. We continue through France and Belgium arriving in Luxembourg and Vianden, dominated by its dramatic castle, late afternoon.
DAY 2: Today we cross the border and visit Trier, one of the oldest cities in Germany, full of culture and impressive landmarks. Explore the town’s Roman Heritage, including the iconic Porta Nigra, stroll along the Moselle or enjoy a coffee in one of the many cafés. Reboarding our coach, we continue along the Moselle Valley with a visit and a tasting at one of the local vineyards.
DAY 3: After breakfast we make our way to Luxembourg City for a morning guided tour. Learn more about the fascinating Book Casements, with fortifications which date back to the 17th Century, and enjoy the panoramic views from the fortress. The city is a charming mix of history, modernity and natural beauty, and you have free time in the afternoon to explore. You could visit the cathedral or the
Grand Ducal Palace (entrance not included), or just wander through the cobbled streets of the historic old town. You’ll find charming squares, quaint cafés, and shops surrounded by beautiful medieval buildings.
DAY 4: A free day in Vianden to relax and explore this beautiful town. You might like to visit the museums or the wonderful Castle, a stunning example of medieval architecture which is perched on a hill overlooking the town, offering stunning views of the surrounding forest and valley (entrances not included). The old town has narrow cobblestone streets, quaint houses, and historic buildings. You’ll find lovely cafés, restaurants, and shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.
DAY 5: A half day excursion into the picturesque Mullerthal region, known as ‘Little Switzerland’, and famous for its unique rock formations, dense forests, and scenic vistas. We have a stop in Diekirch, with its beautifully preserved medieval
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Luxembourg City Guided Tour
Wine Tasting
Musical Evening
Excursions as Listed
façades and heritage buildings. Our scenic drive continues past the castle at Larochette and through Berdorf and Beaufort, before returning to Vianden for the afternoon. This evening, dinner is followed by musical entertainment.
DAY 6: Departing after breakfast we return through Belgium to Calais/Dunkirk for our crossing to Dover. We return to the local area and take you to your door.
Please note: The town of Vianden is built on a steep hill, although our hotel is on the flat beside the river.
Hotel Belle-Vue HHH (Luxembourg)
Our hotel is wonderfully situated just a few minutes from the centre of Vianden. Hotel facilities include a sun terrace, indoor swimming pool and sauna, and a large restaurant serving a set menu. Bedrooms are equipped with TV, telephone, WiFi, mini-safe, kettle and hairdryer. The hotel has a lift. www.hotelbv.com
LUXEMBOURG
One of Europe’s best kept secrets is the picturesque town of Vianden, found amid magnificent scenery on the banks of the River Our. This area of Luxembourg is wellknown for its medieval architecture, scenic landscapes and charming small towns.
VIANDEN TRIER
Hebridean Odyssey
Situated on Europe’s Atlantic edge, the Scottish Western Isles of the Outer Hebrides are a diverse chain of inter-connected islands with their own unique way of life. Join us for the ultimate island-hopping experience in the Outer Hebrides, an area of unspoilt natural beauty offering spectacular scenery, impressive mountain ranges and miles of golden beaches. We visit Barra, Eriskay, South Uist, Benbecula, North Uist, Harris and Lewis.
DAY 1: After an early start, our tour coach travels northward to Lancashire and our overnight hotel.
DAY 2: Leaving Lancashire behind we continue north firstly by motorway and cross the border into Scotland, visiting Moffat en route. At our hotel in Drymen we have a one-night stay.
DAY 3: Enjoy a day of truly spectacular scenery as we pass Loch Lomond, Glencoe, Fort William, Loch Lochy and the famous castle of Eilean Donan, before crossing the Skye Bridge. We drive through the remarkable landscape of the Isle of Skye, before reaching Uig, where we take the early evening crossing to North Uist, on which dinner has been included. We arrive at our hotel in Benbecula for a two-night stay.
DAY 4: Today’s island hopping begins by taking the causeway across to South Uist, and then a further causeway to Eriskay, famous for the Eriskay ponies. A short ferry ride takes us to the Isle of Barra, considered by many to be the most beautiful little island in Britain. Its tranquil beaches, distinctive culture, where Gaelic is widely spoken, and an ancient history make any visit to Barra a memorable one. We are joined by a local guide for some insight into this glorious island.
DAY 5: A leisurely morning in Benbecula before crossing the Benbecula Causeway, which links
to North Uist, a relatively flat island covered with peat bogs, low hills and lochans. More than half the land is covered by water, making North Uist a birdwatchers’ paradise. We board the early afternoon ferry for the one-hour crossing to Harris, on which we can enjoy our packed lunch. We then travel up the west coast past numerous unspoilt, white sandy beaches and some of the most breathtakingly beautiful scenery in the Western Isles. The final leg of today’s journey is to Lewis and our hotel on the outskirts of Stornoway for a two-night stay.
DAY 6: Today we have a local guide for our tour of Lewis, the most northerly island of the Hebrides and the largest of the Outer Hebrides. Lewis has a history that goes back thousands of years and ancient stone circles and standing stones can be found everywhere. We also venture into the moorland interior, where peat is still cut for fuel and see traditional croft dwellings.
DAY 7: We have a morning free in Stornoway. Originally a Viking settlement, the town now has a pretty harbour and some lovely walks. We have an afternoon crossing to Ullapool, which takes just under three hours, and our hotel is just a short distance from where we dock
DAY 8: After an early start, we travel down through Scotland, crossing the Forth Bridge to South Queensferry, with
9 Days from £1719
INCLUSIONS
All Coach Travel
All Ferries
Door to Door Service
Half Board
Packed Lunch Day 5
Barra Guide
Lewis Guide
Excursions as Listed
refreshment stops along the way. Our journey continues via Jedburgh to our overnight hotel in the Newcastle area.
DAY 9: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we travel down the country and home via the Dartford Crossing, reaching the local area in the evening.
Please note: This tour necessarily includes a lot of coach travel and six hotels and is therefore not suitable for the less mobile. A ground floor room cannot be guaranteed at all overnight hotels. Woods Travel cannot be held responsible for disruption due to ferry services or adverse weather.
Dark Island Hotel HHH
A traditional hotel located on Benbecula, only a short walk from a secluded beach. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi and hospitality tray. There is no lift, but some ground floor rooms available. www.isleshotelgroup.co.uk
Cabarfeidh Hotel HHHH
This modern four-star hotel on the outskirts of Stornoway is the highest graded hotel on the Isle of Lewis and has pleasant gardens. Bedrooms have TV, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is WiFi and a lift. www.cabarfeidh-hotel.co.uk
ISLE OF HARRIS
8 Days from £1569
INCLUSIONS
Cruising The Seine
We join CroisiEurope aboard one of their wonderful ships for a delightful eight-day cruise from Paris. We travel in comfort along the Seine through beautiful Normandy countryside, visit picturesque villages along the way, with chances to see fabulous châteaux, and see first-hand the sites of the D-Day Landings. Enjoy full board while on the MS Botticelli with house wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks included throughout the cruise.*
DAY 1: We travel to Dover for the Channel crossing to Calais, arriving early afternoon and travelling to Paris for embarkation late afternoon. Meet your crew at a welcome cocktail party before dinner. Later we will have a cruise through Paris by night (dependent on water level).
DAY 2: This morning enjoy an included guided coach tour of Paris taking in the Place de la Concorde, Champs Élysées, Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower. After lunch, the afternoon is at leisure on board, or free for more exploration of this beautiful city. There are also optional excursions to either the remarkable Palace of Versailles** or a beautiful garden tour at Versailles.**
DAY 3: Our morning is spent relaxing and cruising along the Seine. After lunch we reach La Roche-Guyon, where there is an optional excursion to the Foundation Claude Monet in Giverny, where you can visit his famous studio and explore the water gardens which were the muse of the founder of French Impressionism. This evening we sail toward Honfleur.
DAY 4: Another relaxing morning cruising, before arriving in Honfleur. Explore the picturesque fishing town, stroll along the narrow streets lined with quaint houses, sip coffee in the many cafés, or visit the Church of St Catherine, the largest wooden church in France. After lunch on board there is an optional excursion to discover the Côte Fleurie,
from Deauville to the Château du Breuil, complete with a delicious Calvados tasting. Return on board for dinner and entertainment.
DAY 5: This morning an optional guided walking tour of Honfleur, with more time in the afternoon to explore. Alternatively, join a full day optional guided tour to the Landing Beaches of Normandy.** See Pointe du Hoc, Omaha Beach, Juno Beach and the visitor centre at Arromanches, where you can learn of the lives and losses of the thousands of soldiers involved.
DAY 6: A morning spent cruising, before reaching Rouen. Free time in Rouen or an optional guided walking tour of this historic city. Visit the cathedral, the historic quarters and the Place du Vieux Marché where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake.
DAY 7: We cruise toward Les Andelys. After lunch on board, there is an optional excursion to the Château de Martainville, originating from the 15th Century, and now a museum housing 500 years of rural Normandy history. Tonight, back on board, we have our Gala Evening, and sail back to Paris.
DAY 8: We disembark after breakfast and make our way to Calais for our afternoon Channel crossing. We return to the local area in the evening.
All Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Full Board on MS Botticelli
Drinks Package on Board*
Paris Guide
Excursions as Listed
MS Botticelli
Our ship is a member of the wonderful CroisiEurope fleet. The 75 cabins all have private facilities with showers, and are equipped with TV, safe, hairdryer and airconditioning. There is a delightful panoramic lounge with a dance floor and a bar, a comfortable restaurant (set menu), and a sundeck. There is no lift, and main deck cabins are accessed down stairs. www.croisieurope.co.uk
Please note: For reasons of navigation and passenger safety, CroisiEurope reserve the right to modify the itinerary of the cruise. *All drinks during meals and at the bar are included. Not included: Champagne, Perrier, wine from the wine list, drinks on excursions. Details and prices of the optional tours shown in the itinerary will be sent to you closer to the date of departure. **Must be prebooked & will only happen if necessary numbers reached. For deposit and cancellation Terms & Conditions, please see page 70.
HONFLEUR
MS BOTTICELLI
17 Nights from £2,699
INCLUSIONS
Italy’s Scenic Riviera & Charming Cinque Terre – Escorted
Southampton – Three days cruising – Gibraltar – One day cruising – Palamos, Spain – Savona, Italy – Genoa (overnight), Italy – Portofino, Italy – Livorno, Italy –La Spezia (for Cinque Terre), Italy – One day cruising – Cartagena, Spain –Three days cruising – Southampton
On this escorted cruise on MS Borealis, experience the irresistible allure and vibrant colours of stunning towns like Portofino and the colourful Cinque Terre, perched on the edges of dramatic cliffs. Immerse yourself in 'la dolce vita' (the sweet life) as you embark on scenic coastal walks, relaxed boat rides, and indulge in the cherished tradition of the 'passeggiata' – an evening stroll in Savona. Savor authentic local flavours, like zesty lemon-infused limoncello in Monterosso, where we arrive in time for the annual Lemon Festival! You can also explore the region’s maritime legacy at iconic landmarks like the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Renaissance gems of Florence.
Please note: Prices and offers are subject to availability and based on two sharing an inside cabin unless otherwise stated. Prices correct at time of publication. This cruise is operated by Fred.Olsen Cruise Lines Ltd, for whom Woods Holidays act as agent. Full Ts & Cs are available at www.fredolsencruises.com. Door to door transfers by taxi and coach are included within the Woods pick up area. Escort, transport to and from the port and cocktail party are based on minimum numbers and can be withdrawn at any time and doesn’t form part of the FOCL cruise package and is not covered by the FOCL bond.
Door to Door Transfers
En-suite Accommodation
Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Five Course à la Carte Dinner, Late Night Buffet
Selected Drinks with Lunch & Dinner, Self-Service Tea & Coffee
Varied Daytime Activities
Lectures & Talks
Swimming Pools, Jacuzzi & Gym
Choice of Evening Entertainment
Formal Welcome &/or Captain’s Drink Party & Gala Buffet
Exclusive Woods Cocktail Party
Woods Tour Escort
Gratuities
PORTOFINO
8 Nights from £1,149
INCLUSIONS
Mountains, Glaciers & Fjords of Norway – Escorted
Southampton – Two days cruising – Olden – Cruising Nordfjord & Innvikfjord –Bergen – Ulvik – Cruising Maurangerfjord & Furebergsfossen – Sandnes –One day cruising – Southampton
On this escorted cruise on MS Borealis, embark on a breathtaking adventure through the Norwegian Fjords, where towering mountains, tranquil fjords, and awe-inspiring glaciers await. Borealis will cruise through the stunning Nordfjord, making a scenic detour along Maurangerfjord, offering the perfect view of the expansive Fureberg Waterfall. Experience the Nordic lifestyle of friluftsliv, or ‘open-air living,’ which fosters a deep connection with nature, and explore the beautiful Hanseatic city of Bergen. Delve into the region’s Ice Age history with a tour of the Briksdal and Kjenndalen glaciers, where you can witness the raw power of nature that shaped these majestic landscapes.
Please note: Prices and offers are subject to availability and based on two sharing an inside cabin unless otherwise stated. Prices correct at time of publication. This cruise is operated by Fred.Olsen Cruise Lines Ltd, for whom Woods Holidays act as agent. Full Ts & Cs are available at www.fredolsencruises.com. Door to door transfers by taxi and coach are included within the Woods pick up area. Escort, transport to and from the port and cocktail party are based on minimum numbers and can be withdrawn at any time and doesn’t form part of the FOCL cruise package and is not covered by the FOCL bond.
Door to Door Transfers
En-suite Accommodation
Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Five Course à la Carte Dinner, Late Night Buffet
Selected Drinks with Lunch & Dinner, Self-Service Tea & Coffee
Varied Daytime Activities
Lectures & Talks
Swimming Pools, Jacuzzi & Gym
Choice of Evening Entertainment
Formal Welcome &/or Captain’s Drink Party & Gala Buffet
Exclusive Woods Cocktail Party
Woods Tour Escort
Gratuities
W0637
DRINKSPACKAGE*
7 Days from £1535
INCLUSIONS
Cruising The Rhine in Flames
A remarkable experience is within your reach as we sail along the Romantic Rhine to take part in the ‘Rhein in Flammen’, floating amongst the vessels adorned with lights, as spectacular firework displays light up the night sky. Seeing this stunning visual spectacle from the decks of our ship will be an unforgettable moment to treasure.
DAY 1: We make our way to Dover for the Channel crossing to Calais/Dunkirk. Once in France we travel south to our overnight hotel (half board).
DAY 2: After breakfast we drive to Strasbourg, with suitable stops along the way, and board the MS Gérard Schmitter late afternoon. There is a welcome cocktail before dinner on board. During the night we sail toward Rüdesheim.
DAY 3: This morning we relax on board as we cruise along the Rhine. Upon reaching Rüdesheim, explore this pretty town or take part in one of the optional excursions. The first includes a trip on a small train stopping at a wine tasting cellar, followed by a visit to the Museum of Mechanical Music. Another, more adventurous, optional excursion takes you from the centre of the town to catch the gondola lift to Niederwalddenkmal, to take an 8km-hike through the vineyards.
DAY 4: Another morning spent cruising through
the most beautiful section of the Romantic Rhine. All along the banks of the meandering river you can see castles and medieval villages set amidst the renowned vineyards, and the legendary Lorelei Rock. At Koblenz you could stroll around the old town, and in the evening, we sail toward Trechtingshausen to take our place among the boats on the river for an unforgettable experience – the legendary Rhine in Flames.
DAY 5: Spend the day relaxing on board as we cruise back toward Strasbourg. Alternatively, join an optional excursion to Heidelberg, where you will enjoy amazing views over the city on the River Neckar, stroll through the castle gardens and take a guided tour of the old city. You will reboard the ship in Mannheim. This evening enjoy a Gala dinner on board with a final night of entertainment from the crew.
DAY 6: We disembark in Strasbourg and travel northwards, making
Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Full Board on MS Gérard Schmitter
Half Board at Hotels
Drinks Package on Board*
Rhine in Flames
Excursions as Listed
suitable refreshment stops along the way, to reach our overnight hotel (half board).
DAY 7: Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we travel via the motorways to Calais/Dunkirk for our Channel crossing. We continue back to the south coast, reaching the local area late evening.
MS Gérard Schmitter
Named after the founder of CroisiEurope, our Premium ship has 87 cabins, over three decks, all with picture windows and private facilities with showers. Each is equipped with TV, safe, hairdryer and air-conditioning. There is a delightful panoramic lounge with a dance floor and bar, a comfortable restaurant (set menu), and a large sundeck. There is a lift, but it does not reach the sundeck, and some steps may need to be negotiated when boarding /disembarking. www.croisieurope.co.uk
Please note: For reasons of navigation and passenger safety, CroisiEurope reserve the right to modify the itinerary of the cruise. *All drinks on board MS Gérard Schmitter during meals and at the bar are included. Not included: Champagne, Perrier, wine from the wine list, drinks on excursions, drinks at overnight hotels. Details and prices of the optional tours shown in the itinerary will be sent to you closer to the date of departure. For deposit and cancellation Terms & Conditions, please see page 70.
RHINE IN FLAMES
MS GÉRARD SCHMITTER
8 Days from £1539
INCLUSIONS
Four River Cruise – The Moselle, Saar, Neckar & Romantic Rhine
Join us aboard this lovely CroisiEurope ship as we cruise from Strasbourg to Luxembourg, exploring four wonderful river valleys, cruising past romantic castles, through steep sided vineyards and unspoilt picturesque landscapes.
DAY 1: We make our way to Dover for the Channel crossing to France. Once in France we travel across Belgium and on to our overnight hotel (half board).
DAY 2: After breakfast we drive to Strasbourg, with suitable stops along the way, and board the MS Leonardo Da Vinci late afternoon. There is a welcome cocktail before dinner on board. During the night we sail to Mannheim.
DAY 3: After arrival in Mannheim, there is an included excursion to the romantic town of Heidelberg. The boat cruises on to Heidelberg where we reboard, and then we cruise on the Neckar and Rhine towards Rüdesheim, arriving in the evening.
DAY 4: In Rüdesheim, you can enjoy an optional excursion on a small train stopping at a wine tasting cellar, followed by a visit to the Museum of Mechanical Music. This afternoon we cruise on the most beautiful section of the Romantic
Rhine. All along the banks of the meandering river you can see castles and medieval villages set amidst the renowned vineyards, and the legendary Lorelei Rock. At Koblenz, we join the Moselle toward Cochem, where we arrive this evening.
DAY 5: Wake up in the small medieval town of Cochem, where we have free time or an optional tour of the castle, a marvellous example of flamboyant gothic style. Back on board, we cruise towards Trier, arriving during the night.
DAY 6: Join an optional guided tour of Trier, well-known for its Roman and medieval buildings, impressive churches and the famous Porta Nigra. The tour reboards the ship in Saarburg. Relax on board as we cruise along the Saar and the Moselle to Remich – the ‘Pearl of the Moselle’.
DAY 7: This morning there is an optional visit to a winery complete with tastings, or free time in the historic centre of Remich. After lunch we have an included guided tour of Luxembourg, the capital city of the Grand Duchy, where you can discover the main sites on foot and by coach. Tonight, enjoy a Gala Dinner on board.
DAY 8: We disembark in Remich after breakfast and travel via the motorways to Calais for our Channel crossing. We continue back to the south coast, reaching the local area late evening.
Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Full Board on MS Leonardo Da Vinci
Half Board at Hotels
Drinks Package on Board*
Luxembourg Tour
Heidelberg Tour
Excursions as Listed
MS Leonardo Da Vinci
Our ship has 72 cabins all with picture windows and private facilities with showers. Each is equipped with TV, safe, hairdryer and air-conditioning. There is a delightful panoramic lounge with a dance floor and bar, a comfortable restaurant (set menu), and a large sundeck. There is no lift, and main deck cabins are accessed down stairs. www.croisieurope.co.uk
Please note: For reasons of navigation and passenger safety, CroisiEurope reserve the right to modify the itinerary of the cruise. *All drinks on board MS Leonardo Da Vinci during meals and at the bar are included. Not included: Champagne, Perrier, wine from the wine list, drinks on excursions, drinks at overnight hotels. Details and prices of the optional tours shown in the itinerary will be sent to you closer to the date of departure. For deposit and cancellation Terms & Conditions, please see page 70.
HEIDELBERG
LUXEMBOURG
PORTA NIGRA
9 Days from £1795
INCLUSIONS
Cruising The Rhône
DAY 1: We make our way to Dover for the short Channel crossing to Calais. Once in France, we travel to our overnight hotel (half board).
DAY 2: On our way south we visit Beaune, where you can explore this gorgeous cobbled walled town, and maybe have a first drop of Burgundy. We continue to Lyon to board the Rhône Princess late afternoon. Enjoy a welcome cocktail and evening entertainment. We sail during the night.
DAY 3: A morning to explore Lyon or join an optional guided tour of the city including a tasting at Paul Bocuse’s Les Halles de Lyon, a huge three-story indoor market where close to 50 shops offer the finest gourmet food. Try wonderful local delicacies including sausage, cheese and, of course, wine! We then join the Saône River and head toward Collonges-auMont-d’Or, where we have an extraordinary gastronomic experience at Paul Bocuse’s Abbaye de Collonges. Enjoy out-of-this-world courses prepared by renowned chefs in an exceptional setting, before we return on board. We then sail toward Tain L’Hermitage.
DAY 4: Enjoy free time in Tain L’Hermitage or join an optional tour to the Cité du Chocolat for discovery and tasting! We spend the afternoon cruising toward Avignon.
DAY 5: This morning in Avignon, there is an optional guided tour of Avignon and the Papal Palace, an imposing and luxurious palace, where you can explore the immense halls, beautiful chapels and papal apartments. Alternatively, there is an optional excursion to Gordes, with a tour of the Sénanque Abbey**. The cobblestone streets and dry-stone wall homes make it one of the most beautiful villages in France. The Abbey is known for its lovely lavender fields and lavender honey. Back on board, we sail toward Arles. (The overnight in Arles might be replaced by an overnight in Avignon depending on passage through the locks.)
DAY 6: This morning there is an optional excursion to The Camargue, the epitome of traditional Provencal culture, an immense flatland home to exceptional wildlife and plants. Visit a manade, where bulls are raised, and horses are trained. The afternoon is spent cruising through the gorgeous French countryside, passing by Valence, dominated by its cathedral, and Montélimar, known for its famous nougat.
DAY 7: This morning, an optional guided tour of Viviers, home to the smallest cathedral in France, with streets that feel like an open-air museum. In the afternoon, our optional excursion is to the Gorges de l’Ardèche, the 18-mile canyon carved by turbulent waters that left behind steep cliffs, deep valleys, dense vegetation, and stunning limestone formations. We’ll see the Pont d'Arc, the stunning natural arch
Coach Travel
Door to Door Service
Full Board on MS Rhône Princess
Half Board at Hotels
Drinks Package on Board*
Gastronomic Dinner Day 3
almost 100-feet high. We return to the ship at La Voulte and sail toward Lyon. Tonight enjoy a Gala Dinner on board.
DAY 8: Disembarking after breakfast, we make our way north to our overnight hotel (half board).
DAY 9: We continue home via the motorways to Calais for our Channel crossing. We reach the local area in the evening.
MS Rhône Princess
Part of the CroisiEurope fleet of river cruisers, the MS Rhône Princess has only 69 cabins across two decks. The ensuite cabins have TV, hairdryer and safe. Facilities include lounge bar, comfortable restaurant (set menu) and sundeck. There is no lift and main deck cabins are accessed down stairs. www.croisieurope.co.uk
Please note: For reasons of navigation and passenger safety, CroisiEurope reserve the right to modify the itinerary of the cruise. *All drinks during meals and at the bar on Rhône Princess are included. Not included: Champagne, Perrier, wine from the wine list, drinks at overnight hotels or on excursions. **If the Abbey is closed, you visit the Lavender Museum. Details and prices of optional excursions will be sent to you closer to the date of departure. For Deposit and Cancellation Terms & Conditions, please see page 70.
AVIGNON
Discover a beautiful region of France as we cruise along The Rhône and The Saône, visiting Avignon, Lyon, Viviers and Tain L’Hermitage. Experience Provence and The Camargue and a once-in-a-lifetime evening at a Paul Bocuse restaurant.
MS RHÔNE PRINCESS
Lead Name
Mr/Mrs/Miss
Mr/Mrs/Miss
Surname
Accommodation Requirements
Please use one booking form per bedroom required
Single Bedroom with Private Facilities
Twin Bedroom with Private Facilities
Double Bedroom with Private Facilities
Other
Additional Information (Wheelchair, Special Diet, etc.)
Requests
All passengers MUST have travel insurance if their holiday includes any of the following destinations: Isle of Man, Channel Islands, Isles of Scilly, Ireland or Mainland Europe. It is a requirement of most travel insurance policies that you have a Global Health Insurance Card when travelling in the EU and carry it with you. These can be obtained via the NHS website.
Mr/Mrs/Miss
Surname
Surname
Accommodation Requirements
Please use one booking form per bedroom required
Single Bedroom with Private Facilities
Twin Bedroom with Private Facilities
Double Bedroom with Private Facilities
Other
Insurance/Global Health Insurance Card
All passengers MUST have travel insurance if their holiday includes any of the following destinations: Isle of Man, Channel Islands, Isles of Scilly, Ireland or Mainland Europe.
It is a requirement of most travel insurance policies that you have a Global Health Insurance Card when travelling in the EU and carry it with you. These can be obtained via the NHS website.
And Woods have more to offer…
GROUP BOOKINGS
If you are a group travel organiser or just someone wanting to get a group of family and friends together for a bespoke holiday or day out, give our private groups department a call. They can discuss your travel arrangements and put together the perfect tour just for you, organising the accommodation and itinerary using their knowledge and experience.
“We have just had a splendid week with your company staying in Ostend. Just wanted to express our thanks to your driver. We were on tour with our Concert Band so had the added complication of loading and unloading our musical instruments during the stay. The driver was always ready to help in whatever way needed and always with a cheery smile. We have been on many tours with the band, and he was by far the best driver we have had. Thank you.” Organiser of Local Interest Group, East Grinstead Call 01243 871651
DAY EXCURSIONS
Woods have a programme of around 400-day excursions a year to a great variety of places of interest and entertainment. These include historic houses, glorious gardens, shopping trips, train journeys, river cruises, and trips to the theatre, a show or concert. Our pickup route runs from Chichester, through Bognor Regis and Littlehampton to Goring.
PRIVATE COACH HIRE
Contact 01243 868080
WISH DAYS
Whether it is a treat for a special occasion or a long overdue outing with family and friends, Woods Travel can help to organise a bespoke day out designed especially for your small group. With our expertise, we can support in sourcing and booking entrance tickets, arranging tour guides, making restaurant reservations, and suggesting itineraries, all of which will be tailored to your specific needs and requirements. We also provide transport in our six-seater chauffeur-driven Mercedes to ensure you arrive in style. Why not see a theatre show, take a river cruise or a train ride, enjoy lunch or afternoon tea at an idyllic location, visit an attraction or gardens, or a combination of the above! For a truly unique, customised experience, contact us today for a quote and trust our experts to plan your perfect day out to remember.
Call 01243 871651
Our fleet of 13 distinctive luxury coaches, ranging from 25 to 53 seats, are available to hire. They are meticulously maintained, and are driven by knowledgeable, uniformed drivers. Whether you are a business requiring transport for a corporate day out, a club or association attending an event or a private individual arranging a social occasion, we can provide quality transport.
“I just wanted to check in to let you know that we had an absolutely brilliant experience on Friday. We had the perfect driver for a really complicated schedule of pick-ups and drop-offs who was cheerful and pleasant throughout the day. It was a real pleasure working with Woods Travel - you've been so accommodating to our needs and our overall experience of the company has been excellent. We'll definitely aim to book through you again in the future and will recommend you to colleagues”
Local University Group, East Sussex Call 01243 871657
BCH ABTOT - Trading Charter (and Booking Conditions)
Woods Travel Ltd, Park Road, Bognor Regis, PO21 2PX
Where holidays include a flight (except Isles of Scilly) Woods Travel act as purely an agent and these holidays are covered by Destination Specialists ATOL Number 9503
z1. FINANCIAL PROTECTION Your contract is with Woods Travel Ltd of Park Road, Bognor Regis, PO21 2PX. When you book a holiday with us, which does not include a flight (apart from the Isles of Scilly), the money you pay us for the booking will be protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT), this is a Government approved consumer protection scheme. The scheme will also ensure your repatriation in the event the company becomes insolvent. Our Trading Charter and Booking Conditions set out clearly and simply the responsibility we have to you and in turn, you have with us, when a contract is made. Please see the Consumer Guarantee at www.abtot.com/bch-abtotmembers-directory. There is no financial protection if you purchase just transport or accommodation-only from us. We fully comply with the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018. The combination of travel services offered to you is a package holiday within the meaning of the Regulations. Therefore, you will benefit from all rights applying to package holidays. Woods Travel will be fully responsible for the proper performance of the holiday and providing assistance if you are in difficulty. Your key rights will be in the details of the tour which will be provided prior to booking.
2. BOOKING AND PAYMENT When a booking is made, the 'lead name' on the booking guarantees that he or she is 18 or over and has the authority and accepts on behalf of the party the terms of these booking conditions and pays the required (per person) deposit of £100 (£150 for all air tours and £200 for CroisiEurope river cruises and as confirmed in the pre-contract information. After we receive your booking and all appropriate payments, if the arrangements you wish to book are available, we will send you or your booking agent a confirmation invoice within 14 days. This confirmation will include any special requests we have agreed. All monies paid to your booking agent are held by them on your behalf until we issue our confirmation invoice, thereafter your booking agent holds the money on our behalf. A binding agreement will come into existence between us when we dispatch this invoice to the 'lead name' or your booking agent. Please check the confirmation carefully to ensure all the information is correct. This contract is governed by English Law, and the jurisdiction of the English Courts.
You can book by paying a deposit for each person named on the booking, but our commitment is always conditional upon the balance being paid at least 8 weeks before your departure. If you book within our balance due period, you will need to pay the total holiday cost at the time of booking. If the balance is not paid in time, we reserve the right to cancel your holiday, retain your deposit, and apply the cancellation charges set out in the paragraph below. The date of cancellation will normally be the date we receive your written confirmation that you intend to cancel or 15 days after the balance due date, whichever comes first.
Please note: Single occupancy of rooms, when available, may be subject to a supplementary charge and these will be shown in the brochure. The number of rooms available at this price may be limited. Where optional items are purchased as part of the holiday, these are payable on the balance due date except where items, such as theatre tickets, have been specifically purchased for you. In this case the cost will be payable at a separate date notified to you and will not normally be refunded unless we obtain a refund from the supplier we use.
3. BROCHURE ACCURACY Although Woods Travel make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the brochure information and pricing, regrettably errors do sometimes occur. You must therefore ensure you check the price and all other details of your holiday with us at the time of booking and when you receive our confirmation invoice.
4. OUR PRICING POLICY Woods Travel endeavour to ensure that the most up to date and correct prices are shown in our brochure. Occasionally, an incorrect price may be shown, due to an error. When we become aware of any such error, we will endeavour to notify you at the time of booking (if we are then aware of the mistake) or as soon as reasonably possible. We reserve the right to cancel the booking if you do not wish to accept the price which is applicable to the holiday.
Local Authorities in many towns and cities throughout Europe have introduced new tourist taxes which must be paid directly to the hotel by all guests in person. These taxes are not included in our prices, but we will notify you when applicable. Holiday prices include all travel, hotel accommodation and meals as specified in the holiday description and VAT payable in the UK where applicable. Morning coffee, afternoon tea and other refreshments are not included (unless otherwise stated). Some hotels may make a small additional charge for porterage and tea or coffee served after lunch and dinner. Gratuities to the hotel staff and driver/courier are at your own discretion.
The price of the holiday will not be subjected to any surcharges except those arising from exchange rate changes, transportation including the price of fuel, air & ferry operator fares and tolls, embarkation or disembarkation fees at terminals, duties and taxes (including the rate of VAT). Even in these cases we will absorb the cost equivalent to cost of the first 2% of the holiday price. Amounts more than this plus £1 administration fee and Travel Agents commission will be surcharged to you. If this means the total cost of the holiday increases by more than 8% then you are entitled to cancel your holiday and receive a full refund of all monies paid except any insurance premium and amendment charges. We will communicate the options with you either through email or letter, with a reminder if necessary. If you exercise the right to cancel, we must receive written notice within 20 days of the date of the surcharge invoice. The currency exchange rate used in the holiday costings are based on rates as at the publication date of this charter.
5. IF YOU CHANGE YOUR BOOKING - COACH HOLIDAYS ONLY If, after our confirmation has been issued, you wish to change to another of our holidays or change departure date, we will do our utmost to make the changes, but we cannot guarantee to do so. This option can only be used once and notification must be received in writing at our offices from the person who signed the booking form, at least 6 weeks before departures. This must be accompanied by a payment of £50 to cover our administrative costs, plus costs we incur in making the amendment. Alterations cannot be made within 6 weeks of departure and any such request for an alteration will be treated as a cancellation of the original booking and will be subject to the cancellation charges set out in paragraph below. Some arrangements cannot be changed without paying a cancellation charge of up to 100% of the ticket cost.
6. TRANSFERRING YOUR BOOKING - COACH HOLIDAYS ONLY You can transfer your booking to somebody else, but the person must satisfy all the conditions of the holiday and you must inform us either by letter or email no less than 7 days before departure. This transfer will cost £20 plus reasonable costs to make the transfer. You will remain responsible for ensuring payment before the balance due date. This is in addition to (and does not affect) the separate liability of the transferee to us.
7. IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL YOUR HOLIDAY You or any member of your party, may cancel your holiday at
any time provided the cancellation is made by the person signing the booking form and is communicated to us in writing via the office who made your original booking. You must pay cancellation charges to cover our administration costs and to compensate for the risk of us not reselling the holiday. If the holiday is resold a refund will be made. Your cancellation will take effect from the date on which we or our agent receive your written confirmation of your cancellation. You must also return any tickets or vouchers you have received. A reduction in room occupancy may increase the charges for the remaining passengers by the application of supplements for low occupancy of rooms. Where bought in supplies, such as ferries, hotel accommodation etc have been bought in on your behalf, and where the terms and conditions of the supplier are non-refundable, these products will be charged to you at the full retail rate. If this applies, the non-refundable items will be deducted from your holiday costs and the following scale of charges will be applied to the remainder:
COACH / AIR HOLIDAYS
Period before departure within
Amount of cancellation which written cancellation of package is received charge as a % of total package cost
More than 42 days
28 - 42 days
14 - 27 days
Deposit only
30% or Deposit, if greater
45% or Deposit, if greater
7 - 13 days 60% or Deposit, if greater
1 - 6 days
100%
Departure day or later including voluntary Total package cost termination during the package
CROISIEUROPE RIVER CRUISES
Period before departure within
Amount of cancellation which written cancellation of package is received charge as a % of total package cost
More than 90 days
51-90 days
Deposit only
40% or Deposit if greater
30-50 day 50% or Deposit if greater
15-29 days
7-14 days
1-6 days
Departure day or later including
Total package cost voluntary termination during the package
You may cancel your holiday without paying any termination fee before the start of the holiday, in the event of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances occurring at the place of destination or its immediate vicinity, for instance, if there are serious security problems at the destination which are likely to affect the package. 8. ALTERATIONS TO YOUR HOLIDAY BY US We hope that we will not have to make any change to your holiday but, because our holidays are planned many months in advance, we sometimes do need to make minor changes. We reserve the right to do this at any time. We will let you or your booking agent know about any important changes as soon as possible, including the minimum number of passengers required on the trip.
If after booking, and before departure, we make a major change to your holiday, you will have the option of withdrawing from the holiday without penalty or transferring to another holiday without any charge. In either case, we will pay you compensation, according to the scale set below. A major change includes the time of your departure or return time by more than 12 hours, a change in departure point, location of resort or type of hotel (excluding single overnight hotels on touring packages where the quality of the hotel is comparable). If we tell you about any of these changes after we have confirmed your holiday booking (other than force majeure), you may either:
- accept the new arrangements offered by us; or
- accept a replacement holiday from us of equivalent or similar standard and price (at the date of the change), if we can offer you one; or
- cancel your holiday with us and receive a full refund of all monies.
Either way, we will pay you compensation, using the Compensation table shown below, Period before departure in which Amount per person significant change is notified to you or your agent
More than 42 days Nil
28 to 42 days
14 to 27 days
7 to 13 days
1 to 6 days
Rates reduced by 50% if package is of 3 days duration or less
£10
£15
£20
£25
IMPORTANT NOTE Compensation will not be payable if the holiday is cancelled because the number of persons booked is less than the number required, or for events beyond our control, which include: war, threat of war, riots, civil disturbances, terrorist activity and its consequences, industrial disputes, natural and nuclear disasters, fire, epidemics, health risks and pandemics, unavoidable and unforeseeable technical problems with transport for reasons beyond our control or that of our suppliers; hurricanes and other actual or potential severe weather conditions and any other similar events. You are also advised to check with The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice Unit regularly at www.fco.gov.uk/travel prior to travel.
All holidays operate if the minimum number of participants is met. However, in no case will we cancel your holiday less than 6 weeks before the scheduled departure date, except where you have failed to pay the final balance or because of force majeure (force majeure means an event which we or the suppliers of the services in question could not foresee or avoid and is therefore beyond our control).
9. OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO YOU We accept responsibility for ensuring the holiday which you book with us is supplied as described in our publicity material and the services offered reach a reasonable standard and if you are in difficulty, we will assist you. If any part of our holiday contract is not provided as promised, you may terminate the contract without paying a termination fee and we will pay you appropriate compensation if this has affected your enjoyment of your holiday. We will, however, not be liable if there are any unforeseeable or unavoidable actions of a third party not connected with our travel services, or there were unavoidable or extraordinary circumstances, or the lack of conformity is due to a traveller in the party. We accept responsibility for the acts and/or omissions of our employees, agents and suppliers except where they lead to death, injury or illness. Our liability in all cases shall be limited to a maximum of twice the value of the original holiday cost (not including insurance premiums and amendment charges). We accept responsibility for death, injury, or illness caused by the negligent acts and/or omissions of our employees or agents together with our suppliers and sub-contractors, servants and/or agents of the same whilst acting within the scope of, or during their employment in the provision of your holiday. We will accordingly pay to our clients such damages as might have been awarded in such circumstances under English Law. In respect of carriage by air, sea, tunnel and rail and the provision of accommodation our liability in all cases will be limited in the manner provided by the relevant international convention.
If we make any payment to you or any member of your party for death or personal injury or illness, you will be asked to assign to us or our insurers the rights you may have to act against the person or organisation responsible for causing the death, personal injury or illness. This clause does not apply to any separate contracts that you may enter for excursions or activities during or outside of your holiday. If you or any member of your party suffer death, illness or injury whilst overseas arising out of an activity which does NOT form part of your holiday, we may offer guidance and where legal action is contemplated and you want our assistance, you must obtain our written consent prior to any proceedings (We limit the cost of our assistance to you or your party to £5,000 per party).
10. IF YOU HAVE A COMPLAINT If you have a problem during your holiday, please inform your Tour Manager, your driver or the relevant supplier/resort representative immediately who will endeavour to put things right. If your complaint cannot be completely resolved locally, you must complete a Holiday Report Form which can be obtained by your driver or local representative. Once completed, a copy will be made and given to you to keep. Our contact number, for unresolved complaints will be our office number on 01243 868080 (open in office hours). If you remain dissatisfied please follow this up within 14 days of your return home by writing to the Tours Manager (at our address), giving your original booking reference number and all other relevant information, including the reference of the Holiday Report Form. It is therefore a condition of this contract that you communicate any problem to the supplier of the services in question AND to our representative whilst in resort and obtain a written report form. If you fail to follow this simple procedure, we cannot accept responsibility as we have been deprived of the opportunity to investigate and rectify the problem. Should you wish to pursue the complaint further, BCH/ABTOT have an Alternative Dispute Resolution scheme and full details are available from them. Please contact them at ABTOT 7th Floor, 69 Leadenhall St, London, EC3A 2BG 11. OUR COACHES-SEATING ARANGEMENTS We will always use our reasonable endeavours to provide a coach to the specification in our brochure or advert but reserve the right to substitute an alternative vehicle should there be unforeseen circumstances. There is a seating plan but, in some cases, operational reasons may require a coach with a different configuration. We reserve the right to alter a coach seating plan and allocate seats other than those booked. Single passengers may be required to share a double seat with other single passengers. When your booking is confirmed, you will be given a choice of seats that are available at that time. If you feel that you require two seats, then these must be booked and paid for in advance, at the time of booking. If you fail to do this and it transpires that the seat allocated to you is insufficient for your needs and there is no alternative seating available, then you will be refused access to the coach and any payments made will be liable to forfeiture.
Specific seats will not be allocated on coaches operating a feeder service between joining points and main holiday departure points or on coaches that carry out transfers between airports, seaports etc, or on any holiday taken outside mainland UK. On board facilities cannot be guaranteed in emergency conditions or where a coach is necessarily replaced.
12. HOTEL FACILITIES/ENTERTAINMENT Some hotel facilities may be withdrawn for routine maintenance or be subject to seasonal availability and provision of the facilities cannot be guaranteed. Some hotels arrange entertainment. Where this is part of the package, details are given on the relevant brochure page. Where it is not specified it may still be available but is at the discretion of the hotel and is not guaranteed. It may be withdrawn if there is a lack of demand or for operational reasons.
13. HEALTH AND SAFETY In some foreign countries, standards of infrastructure, safety and hygiene may be lower than those to which we are accustomed in the UK. You should therefore exercise greater care for your own protection. There may be countries that we visit that have special medical requirements for tourists. These regulations are subject to change and our clients are responsible for complying with entry and current health requirements. If you are not sure of the health requirements for the country you are visiting, you are advised to check with your own GP before travelling. You are also advised to refer to the Department of Health website www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/home
Some people may be at risk from discomfort or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) if they remain immobile on a journey for a long period. If you are planning to undertake a journey of more than three hours, you should consult your doctor, if you have ever had DVT, pulmonary embolism, a family history of clotting conditions, cancer or treatment for cancer, stroke, and heart or lung disease or If you have had major surgery in the past three months.
We reserve the right to refuse any booking in the absence of a doctor’s certificate confirming that you are fit to travel. Where we provide comfort stops you are encouraged to walk around. Exercise reduces any discomfort, which may be caused by periods of immobility.
NO SMOKING is allowed on our coaches (including E-Cigarettes) and we do not allow pets or any other animals, although we accommodate registered assistance dogs, but not on overseas holidays.
14. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS, ITINERARIES AND PASSPORTS For all Continental holidays, you will require a full 10-year British Passport (machine readable) valid for the period required for the country or countries you are visiting.Your passport is deemed to be valid for 10 years from date of issue, so if you renewed earlier than the previous expiry date, the extra time added by the passport office does not count. If you do not hold a full British Passport or have any doubts about your status as a resident British subject, you must check with the Embassies or Consulates of the Countries to be visited to confirm the Passport or visa requirements when you book. We cannot accept responsibility if passengers are not in possession of the correct travel documents. For full details on passport requirements, please contact ‘the identity and passport service’ on 0300 222 0000 or see www.gov.uk/browse/abroad/passports.
In relation to holidays in the European Union or a requirement to travel through an EU Member State, you are responsible to ensure that you have any necessary entry documents as required by the EU including any required compliance with the EU’s ‘ETIAS’ system, for more information see www.etiasvisa.com . We cannot
accept any liability for the consequences of your failure to do so.
Approximately 2 weeks prior to departure, we will send you or your booking agent all the necessary information and documents so that you receive them in good time for your holiday. Certain travel documents may have to be retained by us and your driver/courier will then issue them to you at the relevant time. If you lose a travel document after it has been issued to you we will require you to meet the direct cost charged by the carrier/supplier for the issue of a duplicate or replacement.
Excursions which are included in the cost of your booking are detailed on the brochure page and refunds will not be made for excursions not taken. Optional excursions booked and paid for in resort do not form part of your booking. Admission fees to buildings, grounds etc. are not included in the price of the package unless otherwise stated on the relevant brochure page. Refunds for entry to properties owned by an association e.g. National Trust, English Heritage which are included in the package cannot be claimed. Woods Travel negotiate group rates, and as such, has minimum numbers to adhere to. Therefore, should you have a membership card, it will be the charity that will benefit by this.
We reserve the right to modify itineraries to conform with requests from competent authorities both within the UK and abroad. We reserve the right to alter the itinerary, due to unforeseen circumstances, whilst the tour is in progress.
14a. PICK-UP POINTS
DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE - Unless otherwise stated door to door service applies to all WOODS packages in this brochure providing your home address is within the red line on the map on the back cover of this brochure. If you reside outside this area it will be at the discretion of the operator and a supplement may apply. Please contact us for details.
LOCAL PICK UP POINT PACKAGES - You are responsible for ensuring that you are at the correct departure point, at the correct time, with the correct documents and we cannot be held liable for any loss or expense suffered by your party because of their late arrival at the departure point or through not having the correct documents.
15. SPECIAL REQUESTS All special needs and requests, if agreed, should be entered on the booking form and be included in the confirmation of the holiday. These cannot be guaranteed except where confirmed as part of our holiday commitment to you and are detailed on your holiday booking confirmation. We are keen to ensure that we plan the arrangements for your holiday so that special needs and requests can be accommodated as far as possible. If you will need assistance or may be unable to fully enjoy all aspects of your holiday, you must tell us in advance so that we can maximise your enjoyment of the holiday. We will need to know if you will need special facilities in the hotel, taking part in the excursions or have difficulty boarding and travelling on the coach or other means of transport. Before booking your holiday, you should be sure that you and your party are both physically and mentally capable of completing the itinerary. If you need advice or further information, either you or your booking agent should contact the Tours Manager. If you will require a special diet, please tell us at the time of booking, or as soon as you are medically advised, together with a copy of the diet.
16. PASSENGERS WITH DISABILITIES We want everyone to enjoy our travel arrangements. We are happy to advise and assist you in choosing a suitable holiday. But, as some of the accommodation and resorts featured may not cater for even minor disabilities, it is important that, when booking, you advise us of any disability, specific need or complex need you may have and any special requirements that will make sure the holiday is suitable. If a passenger requires personal assistance (for example, assistance with feeding, dressing, toileting, mobilising) then this passenger must travel with an able-bodied companion or carer and written confirmation that such assistance will be provided for the entirety of the holiday is required at the time of booking. Coach drivers/Tour Managers are unable to provide such assistance.
IMPORTANT - You must tell us if you have an existing medical condition, disability or complex need that may affect your holiday or other group members’ enjoyment of it, before you book your holiday. We reserve the right to request a doctor’s certificate confirming you are fit to travel. If, in our reasonable opinion, your chosen holiday is not suitable for your medical condition or disability, we reserve the right to refuse your booking. We want you to enjoy your holiday and will help you select an appropriate trip.
You are responsible for bringing with you the proper clothing and equipment, which we advise you about in our printed trip information.
Please contact us with regard to our policy on wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
17. PASSENGER BEHAVIOUR We want all our customers to have a happy and carefree holiday. You are responsible for your behaviour and hygiene and the effect it may have on others. If you or any other member of your party is abusive, disruptive or behaves in a way that could cause damage or injury to others or affect their enjoyment of their holiday or which could damage property, we have the right to terminate your contract with us and we will have no further liability or obligation to you. The coach driver/representative, ship's captain, or authorised official is entitled to refuse you boarding if in their reasonable opinion you are unacceptably under the influence of drink or drugs or you are being violent or disruptive. If you are refused boarding on the outward journey, we will regard it as a cancellation by you and we will apply cancellation charges. If on your return journey, we have the right to terminate the contract with you.
We also request that mobile telephones are not used on the coach to make or receive calls, save for exceptional circumstances.
18. TRAVEL INSURANCE/GLOBAL HEALTH INSURANCE CARD All passengers MUST have travel insurance if their holiday includes any of the following destinations: Isle of Man, Channel Islands, Isles of Scilly, Ireland or Mainland Europe. It is a requirement of most travel insurance policies that you have a Global Health Insurance Card when travelling in the EU and carry it with you. These can be obtained via the NHS website.If you do not have adequate insurance and require our assistance during your holiday, we reserve the right to reclaim from you any medical repatriation or other expenses which we may incur on your behalf which would otherwise have been met by insurers. You must advise the name of your insurer, the policy number and 24-hour contact number.
19. LUGGAGE Please restrict your luggage to one medium sized suitcase weighing no more than 20 kgs per person. We cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to luggage unless through our negligence. Please do not leave valuable items in your suitcase when left on the coach.
A small holdall can also be taken on the coach as hand luggage. Please contact us for our policy on mobility scooters.
20. GENERAL DATA PROTECTION REGULATIONS We comply with the GDPR 2018 Regulations, our data controller is Tina Shaw-Morton at Woods Travel and our Data Protection Officer is DPO Assist Ltd. Our Privacy Policy can be found on our website or requested from our offices. Our contact details can be found below.
PUBLICATION DATE AND DETAILS This brochure and trading charter was printed in the United Kingdom by Woods Travel Ltd, Park Road, Bognor Regis, West Sussex. PO21 2PX on 14/04/25.
