Owens S2010 Brochure_v06:____ - Owens Travel

Travelmaster 

COACH HOLIDAYS & SHORT BREAKS 

Summer 2010 

THE COMPLETE TRAVEL SERVICE

MANY NEW TOURS 

IN 2010! 

Welcome to 

Owen’s Travelmaster 

Summer 2010 

Convenient Joining Points & FREE Parking 

Our choice of local pick-up points is second to 

none and because we only operate in a relatively 

small area it means that you are ‘On your way’ 

sooner. Car parking is available at our coach depot 

at Foxen Manor Industrial Park, Four Crosses. 

Remember if you book one of our CITO tours, and 

you live within a ten mile radius of the points 

highlighted on our pick-up list, you will be picked 

up from home. 

Book Early! – Book with Confidence 

Under E.E.C. legislation all tour operators must 

offer full financial protection for client’s money. 

We are members of the Confederation of 

Passenger Transport UK ‘Bonded Holiday Scheme’ 

which offers complete financial security on all 

monies paid by you. 

New for 2010 

All of our coach holidays use 

executive class vehicles, but new for 

2010 all tours carrying our “Owen’s 

Select” Logo will have the additional comfort and 

relaxation of superior leg-room, by means of our 

new 45 seater Mercedes executive touring coach. 

2 

The Consortium of Independent Tour Operators 

Is a select organisation of proven operators throughout the 

country, which have satisfied strict membership criteria. 

The most significant of these is the CITO QUALITY AWARD, 

which must be applied to a proportion of the holidays we 

offer. You will see below that a holiday must comply with 

certain standards before the CITO QUALITY AWARD can be attained and 

all such tours in this brochure are indicated by the CITO logo. 

CITO is a nationwide organisation committed to the continual improvement 

of quality coach holidays and Owen’s Travelmaster is the only company in 

this area to hold such accreditation. 

CITO Quality Award 

On a CITO holiday you can be sure of the following facilities at no 

extra cost. 

TRAVEL 

Door to Door service – within the area specified (see pick-up points) 

No overnight land travel 

All coach travel excursions included 

Entrance fees & fares (as described on the individual tour description) 

24 hour emergency number 

COACH 

All non-smoking WC and washroom on board 

Full air-conditioning Adjustable seat backs 

Seat belts Beverage facilities 

Secondary braking and safety systems 

HOTEL ACCOMMODATION 

Minimum 3 star standard (according to national ratings) 

Luggage handling – one piece per person (stays of over 2 nights) 

Choice of dinner menu (stays of over 2 days) 

Cooked breakfast (UK Tours) 

Buffet breakfast (European Tours) 

HOW TO BOOK 

It really couldn’t be easier! Simply contact any of our own Booking 

Offices whose name and address appears on the Booking Form, or 

any of our agents and you will receive instant confirmation as soon 

as you pay your deposit. 

Deposits required are as follows:- 

UK Tours £40.00 

Continental Tours & Ireland £50.00 

Jersey £100.00 

All other cruise & flight holidays Please Enquire 

If you require insurance this must be paid at the time of booking. 

Hotels 

The following symbols are used throughout this brochure 

to illustrate the facilities available in the hotels in which 

you will be staying 

Private TV Telephone Bar Lift in Tea/ Entertainment Swimming 

Facilities Hotel Coffee Pool 

in Room 

Insurance 

Period of Holidays up to:- 

3 Days 5 Days 7 Days 10 Days 

U.K. £9.50 £13.00 £14.50 £15.00 

RoI/IOM £13.50 £18.50 £20.50 ---- 

Europe/Channel Isles 

All other flight or 

£19.00 £24.00 £25.00 £26.00 

cruise holidays On Request 

The above premiums are inclusive of Insurance Premium Tax at the 

rate of 17.5%. The cost of insurance was correct at the time of going 

to press, however, premiums may be increased/decreased without 

prior notice. 

N.B. Full details of the insurance can be found on the insert.

Contents 

Cruising 

Springtime Fjordland 4 

British Isles Discovery 5 

Iberian Discovery 6 

Breaks in Europe 

Austria – All Inclusive 7 

Austria – Waidring 8 

Austria – Stylish St. Anton & The Cows Return 9 

Black Forest 10 

Berlin, Krakow & Prague 11 

Lake Garda & The Dolomites 12 

Monschau 13 

Aachen Carnival 13 

Ostend 14 

Honfleur & Normandy 14 

Dutch Bulbfields 15 

Brussels Carpet of Flowers 15 

Channel Islands 

Jersey 16 

Ireland 

Enniscorthy & County Wexford 16 

Ireland’s South Coast 17 

Irish Jig in Tramore 17 

Cliff of Moher, County Clare 18 

Westport, County Mayo 18 

Carlow Autumn Colours 19 

Monaghan & Northern Ireland 19 

Donegal & Causeway Coast 20 

Killarney & Ring of Kerry 20 

Scotland 

Dunoon – The Scottish Riviera 21 

Winnock All Inclusive 21 

Ayrshire Coast & Isle of Arran 22 

Scottish Highlands 22 

Fort William – Jacobite Experience 23 

Orkney & Shetlands 23 

Edinburgh Tattoo 24 

Tayside & Edinburgh Tattoo 24 

Exclusive Royal Scotland 25 

Wales 

Early Booking Bonus 

Cardiff 25 

Llandudno 26 

Tenby 26 

England 

Althorp House Experience 27 

Chelsea Flower Show 27 

Harrogate Flower Show 27 

London Showboat 28 

London 28 

Five Star London 28 

BBC Studio & Shopping Experience 29 

London Theatre or Shopping 29 

Luxurious Oxford City Break 30 

Windsor Castle or Legoland 30 

Windsor Royal Tattoo 30 

Blackpool Illuminations 31 

Oxford & The Cotswolds 31 

Lincoln Cathedral & The Peaks 31 

Bournemouth 32 

Bournemouth & Torquay 32 

Great Yarmouth 33 

East Anglian Adventure 33 

Great House & Gardens of Norfolk 34 

Constable Country & Suffolk Villages 34 

Hidden Corners of Yorkshire 35 

TV Film Trails of Yorkshire 35 

Historic York 36 

Yorkshire’s Great Houses, Castle & Gardens 36 

Durham, Bowes Museum & Beamish 37 

Kingdom of Northumbria 37 

Scarborough 38 

Tall Ships 38 

Isle of Man 39 

Carlisle and the lakes 39 

Hampshire Gardens, Wheels & Steam 40 

Worthing 40 

Cambridge & East Anglia 41 

Thames Valley, Oxford etc 41 

Best of the West 42 

Wiltshire & Bath 42 

Arundel Castle & South Downs 43 

Orchards, Vineyards, Castles & Steam 43 

Sidmouth 44 

Torquay 44 

Ilfracombe 45 

Delights of Cornwall 45 

Eastbourne 46 

Shanklin – Isle of Wight 46 

Hampshire Delights 47 

Mystery Tours 47 

If you book and pay the required deposit on your holiday by 28th February 2010 

we will give you the following discounts off the balance of your holiday: 

HOLIDAY VALUE UP TO DISCOUNT 

£150 per person.......................................................£4.00 per person 



Over £400 per person..............................................£20.00 per person 

N.B. These discounts are not available with any other discounted places, or on any tour that is printed in our 

Autumn 2009/Spring 2010 Brochure. 

Insurance premiums are not included in the holiday value. 

3 

Amsterdam and the Dutch Bulbfields 

Lake Garda 

London City Breaks

4 

Cruising 

Ocean Countess Cruising 

We are proud to welcome the 800 

passenger, 17,500grt Ocean 

Countess to our holiday brochure 

following a £3 million refurbishment 

programme in spring 2010. She began 

service as the popular Cunard Countess and 

at the time became one of the best-known 

ships to sail the Caribbean Sea and a 

favourite on the British market. Ocean 

Countess will operate year round sailings 

from six different British ports including 

Hull, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Leith, Greenock, 

Liverpool, and Plymouth bringing cruising 

closer to home and added convenience for 

many of our new and past passengers. 

Springtime Fjordland 

YOUR ITINERARY: 

26th April: We travel to Hull to board the Ocean 

Countess which departs at 17.00. 

27th April: At sea to enjoy the many facilities. 

28th April: You wake up to a gentle cruise along 

the mighty Hardangerfjord, the perfect introduction 

to Norway’s Fjordland. The first glimpse outside is 

literally breathtaking as you discover the sheer scale 

and magnificence of the scenery around you. The 

little village of Ulvik is the starting point for an 

optional overland excursion which brings you back 

to the ship in Eidfjord. The eastern end of 

Hardangerfjord forms into the Eidfjord and the 

small town of the same name provides the gateway 

to the Hardangervidda Mountain Plateau. Here you 

will find some of the most spectacular scenery in 

Norway with literally thousands of square miles of 

glaciers, spectacular lakes and large 

stocks of reindeer. 

29th April: Situated at the head of the 

Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the mighty 

Sogne, Flåm nestles between high cliffs 

streaked with waterfalls and is the terminus 

of the Flåmsbanen the amazing railway line 

that travels just 12 miles to Myrdal through 

stunning scenery and a gradient of 1 in 18! 

30th April: Bergen, the second city of 

Norway and this delightful old Hanseatic 

port, with its beautifully restored wooden 

warehouses, colourful fish and flower market, makes 

a perfect contrast to the high peaks, waterfalls and 

small village communities of the fjords. 

1st May: A day at sea. 

2nd May: We arrive back in Hull at approximately 

07.00 and following disembarkation we return home. 

On board public facilities include the comfortable 

Holywood Show Lounge, the Tower Piano Bar on Lido 

Deck with its panoramic views, well-stocked library 

and card tables, and by contrast Hamptons is the 

place to be for late night entertainment. Ocean 

Countess offers traditional two sitting dining in the 

Kensington Restaurant and as an alternative enjoy a 

light lunch at the Boat House on Restaurant Deck or 

by the pool on Lido Deck. There is a shopping gallery, 

gym with sauna and spa and massage, hairdressing 

and beauty facilities. 

Look forward to some breathtaking Norwegian scenery on this springtime cruise to the majestic fjords. 

In Hardanger, you may be lucky enough to experience the apple orchards in blossom along the fjord’s 

shore, whilst in the Sognefjord the mountains and cascading waterfalls are a spectacular sight. 

Booking Hotline: 01691 652126/654928 

7 DAYS 

26TH APRIL– 

2ND MAY 

£545 

Deposit required is £100 

SUPPLEMENTS 

Standard Plus Inner Twin 

£110 per person 

Superior Twin Inner 


Standard Twin Ocean View 

(Admiral Deck) 



(Main Deck) 


Superior Twin Ocean View 


Please note that in the event of adverse weather 

conditions that prevent the vessel from calling 

at one of the scheduled ports of call, alternative 

arrangements will be made where possible.

Owen’s British Isles Discovery 

10 DAYS 

8TH–17TH MAY 

£859 


SUPPLEMENTS 

Superior Twin Inner 






(Main Deck) 




On this delightful cruise, Ocean Countess visits some of the most interesting parts of the British Isles including charming offshore 

islands, Edinburgh and Dublin. This is a wonderful opportunity to sample historic sights, ancient cultures, beautiful scenery and 

even tax-free shopping. 


Saturday 8th: We travel to Hull and board the Ocean 

Countess which sails at 2000hrs. 

Sunday 9th: A day at sea to enjoy the many facilities. 

Monday 10th: St. Helier is the capital and by far the 

biggest town on the island. It is overlooked by two 

fortifications: Elizabeth Castle withstood Oliver 

Cromwell and his army for seven weeks in 1651, and 

was later used by the occupying German forces during 

the Second World War. Fort Regent is built on an 

outcrop above the town and has now been converted 

into a sports and leisure complex. Inside, there is an 

aquarium, a postal museum, a funfair and the old castle 

ramparts give excellent views out across the town and 

the bay. Other in town attractions include the awardwinning 

Jersey Museum, the new Maritime Museum 

and the Occupation Tapestry Gallery. Very popular for 

shopping, the best area in St. Helier is in the King 

Street/Queen Street precinct area. Most luxury goods 

are less expensive than in the UK, as Jersey, although 

VAT free, has low duties on items such as alcohol, 

cigarettes, perfume, cosmetics and electrical goods. 

Tuesday 11th: We spend the day in Falmouth, 

Cornwall. 

Wednesday 12th: Dropping anchor off Hugh Town, 

the main town of the Isles of Scilly, affords the chance 

to visit two of this unique cluster of islands, lying 28 

miles south west of Land’s End. St. Mary’s is the 

largest at just six square miles, while the effects of the 

sub-tropical climate are spectacularly evident in the 

blaze of colour at Tresco’s renowned Abbey Gardens. 

Thursday 13th: The capital of the Emerald Isle, with 

its images of ancient Kings, magical folklore and that 

essential Irish hospitality. From Trinity College to 

stylish O’Connell Street, Dublin offers a real sense of 

history, wonderful restaurants, cafés and of course, 

bars. Enjoy the craic and perhaps an expertly served 

pint of Guinness. 

Friday 14th: Portree, capital of the Isle of Skye, is the 


Cruising 

largest of the Inner Hebrides, renowned in history 

and song and well known for its iconic castles and 

natural beauty. Pay your respects to one of Scotland’s 

real heroines, Flora McDonald, who rescued Bonnie 

Prince Charlie and took him ‘over the sea to Skye’. 

Saturday 15th: The capital and administrative centre 

of the Orkney Islands, set on the principal island 

known as Mainland. The Orkneys comprise 70 or so 

islands, rocks and skerries that cover an area of 376 

square miles. You can still detect the Norse influence 

and the Stone Age settlement at Skara Brae, older than 

either the Pyramids or Stonehenge, is fascinating. 

Sunday 16th: Leith is the home of the Royal Yacht 

Britannia and gateway to beautiful and vibrant 

Edinburgh dominated by captivating Edinburgh Castle, 

home of the Scottish Crown Jewels. Visit the Palace of 

Holyroodhouse, an official residence of H.M. The Queen 

and where Mary, Queen of Scots was slain in 1566. 

Monday 17th: We arrive back in Hull at approximately 

10.00am and after disembarkation return home. 




arrangements will be made where possible. 

5

6 

Cruising 

Iberian Discovery 

Step aboard Ocean Countess for this tantalising summer cruise itinerary around the Iberian Peninsular. 

A truly diverse blend of historic cities, rich cultures and grand architecture combine with the 

fascination of colourful Morocco and the dramatic Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines. 


Monday 13th: We take the short journey to 

Liverpool and board the Ocean Princess which sails at 

1700hrs. 

Tuesday 14th: A day at sea to enjoy the many 

facilities. 

Wednesday 15th: Another day at sea. 

Thursday 16th: Portugal’s capital Lisbon is a large 

sprawling city with many reminders of its colourful 

history peopled by Visigoths, Moors, Romans, 

Phoenicians, Carthaginians and even a few warring 

Celts. Alfama and Barrio Alto are its charming historic 

districts full of narrow cobbled streets, Moorish 

buildings and wrought-iron balconies trailing with 

pretty flowers. 

Friday 17th: Believed to be one of Europe’s oldest 

cities, it is from Cádiz that Spain’s many galleons once 

sailed in quest of New World treasure. Admire its 

ancient palaces and castles, cathedrals and churches, 

museums and gardens. The picturesque old city looks 

quite Moorish in appearance with its narrow cobbled 

streets and small squares. From Cadiz you can reach 

the beautiful city of Seville, home to flamenco and 

bullfights, with its impressive Gothic Cathedral and 

the Alcazar which was the palace of Spanish kings for 

nearly seven centuries. 

Saturday 18th: Casalanca is the largest city in 

Morocco full of vibrant boulevards and colourful 

bazaars, and with a history going back centuries. 

Following an earthquake in 1755 the town was 

rebuilt and renamed Dar Al Beida (The White 

House) in Arabic, which the Spanish eventually 

translated as Casablanca. The French gave 

Casablanca its wide boulevards, public parks and 

imposing civic buildings. Explore the medina and 

the Habbous souk district selling all manner of 

items. The astonishing Hassan II Mosque dominates 

the entire city. It has the world’s tallest minaret and 

the prayer hall can accommodate 25,000. 

Sunday 19th: Gibraltar is the famous headland 

guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea from 

the Atlantic Ocean. It is dominated by ‘the Rock’ that 

guards the Straits of Gibraltar with Morocco to the 

south. British for nearly 300 years, you will find much 

that is familiar combined with a Mediterranean 

ambience. Take the cable-car to enjoy the spectacular 

views towards Africa, visit St. Michael’s Cave, the Siege 

Tunnels and, of course, see the famous Barbary apes. 

Monday 20th: Birthplace of Picasso, Málaga lies on a 

beautiful sweep of bay in Andalucia. Blessed with 

sunshine, Málaga is a city of wide boulevards, palm 

trees, good museums and excellent seafood 

restaurants and tapas bars. Visit the Museo Picasso 

Málaga, a moving experience of Picasso’s lifetime of 

works, and Puerto Banus, Málaga’s jet set marina. 

Explore the beautiful Alameda Gardens, the attractive 

small streets and plazas and the magnificent 

cathedral. An excursion to the Alhambra Palace in 

Granada, may be one of the highlights of your cruise. 

Tuesday 21st: Close to Portimão, Praia da Rocha was 

the first resort to be developed on Portugal’s Algarve 

long before the boom of package holidays. The 

famous beach is an extensive stretch of sand sheltered 

13 DAYS 

13TH–25TH 

SEPTEMBER 

£880 


SUPPLEMENTS 

Standard Plus Inner Twin 






(Main Deck) 




by attractive sandstone cliffs with striking rock 

formations both in and out of the water. Sample 

grilled sardines at one of the traditional fish 

restaurants or explore the hills and the inland villages 

to experience stunning landscapes and traditional 

country life. 

Wednesday 22nd: A day at sea. 

Thursday 23rd: Gijón began as a fishing village 

nearly 3,000 years ago and today is an important port 

on the Atlantic coast of northern Spain. The historic 

fishing village known as Cimadevilla is located on a 

peninsula that divides the port in half. Most of the 

streets are cobblestone and many of the buildings 

have been renovated. The region of Asturias 

surrounding Gijón is known in Spain for its greenness 

and beauty. Visit historic Oviedo, the site of several 

medieval churches and elegant Sancta Ovetens 

cathedral which contains the royal Asturian tombs. 

Friday 24th: Our final day at sea. 

Saturday 25th: We arrive back in Liverpool at 

approximately 09.00hrs and return home. 




arrangements will be made where possible. 

FINAL PAYMENT ON THESE HOLIDAYS ARE DUE 8 WEEKS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE 

Booking Hotline: 01691 652126/654928

Europe 

Owen’s Austria All Inclusive 

Think of Austria and it’s a tussle for the iconic image that will pop into your head first: Julie Andrews 

spinning on a mountaintop, Vienna’s imperial dazzle, the snowy peaks of the Alps... This former heart of 

the Austro-Hungarian Empire sits at the base of the Alps and the crossroads of Central Europe – and if the 

ambience here is more nostalgia than innovation, and more poise than pizzazz, then it’s easy to understand 

why. European high culture was dominated by Austria for centuries during the reign of the Hapsburg dynasty. 

This is the land of Mozart and Strauss, Freud and Klimt, of grand palaces, onion-bulb churches and beautiful 

Baroque and Art Nouveau buildings. These days, old and new combine in a seamless experience for visitors, 

transport links are superb and tourist infrastructure is frighteningly well organised, ensuring you won’t miss 

any of the experiences Austria has to offer. 


Sunday 18th: We leave this morning heading south to 

Dover where we take our short sea crossing to Calais 

we then travel through Belgium to the German border 

for our overnight Dinner Bed & Breakfast. 

Monday 19th: We continue today through Germany 

into Austria and onto our main holiday destination in 

Brandenberg and the Hotel Ascherwirt where you 

will be met with a welcome drink. 

Tuesday 20th: Today we take a leisurely excursion to 

the chic resort of Kitzbuhel which is set against a 

spectacular backdrop of stunning Alpine scenery and 

combines a modern sophistication with a fairytale 

atmosphere, where the multitude of bars, pavement 

cafes and shops blend harmoniously with cobbled 

streets and picturesque painted houses. We later head 

off to Zee am See a quintessential Austrian resort, a 

compact town of picture-postcard perfection, with a 

lake on one side and an impressive mountain 

hinterland on the other. 

Wednesday 21st: Half day excursion takes us to 

Kufstein, a scenic town located in northern Tyrol on 

the river Inn. A stroll through the town is very 

rewarding with the majestic fortress being centre of 

many activities, the romantic ancient town centre is 

very attractive, with galleries, museums, exquisite 

shops, and traditional stores, offering high fashion 

trends, hospitality, fun and lots of flair. 

Thursday 22nd: Today sit back and relax and enjoy 

the stunning scenery of the Austrian Alps. We begin 

with the Ziller valley heading to Mayrhofen where you 

will be given free time to explore this popular all year 

round resort. Why not visit the show dairy to learn 

how Tyrolean cheese is made or enjoy a horse & 

carriage ride in the fresh air with a few of your 

travelling companions. We will then continue on to 

Lake Achen (Achensee) the highest lake in Tyrol. 

Friday 23rd: Today we travel to Innsbruck the Capital 

of the Tyrol a charming city surrounded by the tall, 

Hotel Ascherwirt in Brandenberg ★★★ 

Enjoy picture post card scenery with a relaxed 

and friendly atmosphere in the heart of the 

Austrian Tyrol. Our excursion programme 

features the many contrasts of towering 

mountain peaks, lush green meadow, golden 

forests, beautiful cities, and Tyrolean traditions. 

Brandenberg is a pretty mountain village 

located on a plateau above the Inn Valley; there 

is a bank, shop as well as a couple of inns. 

The excellent and very typical Austrian style 

family run hotel is situated in the middle of 

the small village of Brandenburg. The hotel 

also has a sauna, solarium, and fitness room. 

All en-suite rooms are a generous size with 

bath or shower and WC and TV. Additional 

facilities include a restaurant and bar, large 

screen TV room. There is a large terrace in 

front of the hotel. 

ABDE 

dramatic mountain peaks of the Nordkette Mountains. 

Look out for the famous Golden Roof, located in the 

city’s beautiful Old Town and browse the wide 

selection of shops and restaurants along the bustling 

Maria heresien Strasse. This afternoon we head off to 

the delightful town of Rattenberg, famed for its lead 

crystal, here you have free time to explore this small 

medieval town. Rattenberg is Austria’s smallest town 

yet a little gem of medieval architecture with archways 


8 DAYS 

18–25 APRIL 

£499 

Single Room Supp: £70 

INCLUDES: 

All Travel by Executive Coach 

Return Ferry Crossing 

All Rooms with 

Private Facilities 

Excursions as Detailed 

Welcome Drink 

Buffet Breakfasts 

Packed Lunches at Resort 

Two overnight Dinner, Bed & 

Breakfast 

Five 3 course dinners 

Unlimited Tap Beer Inc 

Alcohol Free, Wine & 

Selected Fruit Juices between 

18.30hrs-22.00hrs 

3 x Afternoon Coffee & Cake 

leading to quiet inner courtyards and numerous 

squares. Housed in many of these stylish buildings are 

the wide ranges of glass products available for sale. 

Saturday 24th: Sadly its time to leave Brandenberg and 

start our journey homeward out of Austria into Germany 

with an overnight stay on the German Borders. 

Sunday 25th: We continue our journey home taking 

the short Calais to Dover Sea crossing for our final leg 

of the journey home. 

7

8 

Waidring, Austrian Tyrol 

New Tour 

for 2010 

Europe 

Waidring, a typically Tyrolean village, is a wonderful place to 

enjoy the Austrian summer. Small and self contained but with 

an ideal location, in a valley at the foothills of the Kitzbuhler Alps, 

60 miles east of Innsbruck. Little spoilt by tourism, it nevertheless 

lies in a superb position within easy access of some of the most 

beautiful scenery and towns in the Tyrol. 


Saturday 19th: An early start for our journey to 

Dover for a lunch time crossing to France from where 

we continue into Belgium for our overnight hotel. 

Sunday 20th: Crossing the border into Germany we 

travel into the Austrian Tyrol and arrive in Waidring for 

check-in at the Waidringerhof Hotel for six night’s 

accommodation. 

Monday 21st: Today our excursion takes us to 

Rattenberg, on the River Inn, the smallest city in the 

Tyrol. It is a serious glass-making centre and a walk 

down the main street, Sudtirolerstraase, brings this to 

life with shop after 

shop displaying high 

quality crystal and 

glass products and 

antiques. We continue 

to Lake Achensee, 

surrounded by dark 

coniferous forests, it 

is the largest and 

most beautiful of the 

Tyrolean lakes 

Tuesday 22nd: A full 

day excursion to 

Salzburg, a beautiful 

city which was 

immortalized in the 

film the ‘Sound of 

Music’ and was the 

birthplace of Mozart. 

WAIDRINGERHOF HOTEL 

Waidring ★★★★ 

The 4 Star Waidringerhof Hotel is 

consistently highly rated for the quality of 

accommodation and food. The hotel has a 

lounge bar with open fire, games room, 

indoor pool, sun terrace, sauna, steam 

room and solarium. Buffet breakfast and 

well-prepared evening meals are served in 

a spacious restaurant. 

www.waidringerhof.at 

ABCDEH 

Wednesday 23rd: A day excursion through splendid 

mountain scenery travelling by way of the Ziller Valler, 


8 DAYS 

19TH–26TH JUNE 

£585 


INCLUDES: 


Return Channel Crossings 

Two Overnights Dinner, 

Bed & Breakfast at the 

Post Hotel Liege 

Five Nights, 4 Course Dinner, 

Bed & Breakfast at Resort 

Porterage at Resort 

Welcome Drink at Resort 

Farmers Buffet or 

BBQ Evening 

Farewell Gala Dinner on 

Final Evening 

Tea/Coffee after dinner at 

Resort Hotel 


Gerlos Pass and spectacular Krimmel 

Falls, Europe’s highest waterfalls, 

plunging some 1250 feet in three 

tremendous cascades. 

Thursday 24th: An excursion to 

the Grossglockner Pass, rising 

through some stunning scenery to a 

height of 8,000 feet, followed by an 

afternoon visit to the resort of Zell 

am See, a quintessential Austrian 

resort, a compact town of picturepostcard 

perfection, with a lake on 

one side and an impressive 

mountain hinterland on the other. 

Friday 25th: Regretfully we must 

leave our hosts for the return 

journey to our overnight hotel in 

Belgium. 

Saturday 26th: We return to Calais 

for our sailing to Dover from where we complete our 

journey home.

Europe 

Owen’s Austria – Stylish St. Anton & The Cows Return 

Astylish winter ski resort, St. Anton becomes a summer touring 

centre for this beautiful Austrian alpine region. Nestling in a 

delightful valley beneath towering mountain peaks near the 

Arlberg Pass this elegant town is an ideal base to explore some of 

the many attractions in the area. The itinerary features visits to 

Innsbruck, the Silveratta Pass, lovely Lake Constance in Germany 

and, of course, the ‘Cow’s Return’, a simple but colourful village 

festival that celebrates the return of the animals to the village after 

spending the summer on the mountain pastures. 


Thursday 16th: We set off on our journey for the 

short sea crossing to Calais and our overnight at the 

Buschhausen Hotel in Aachen in Germany. 

Friday 17th: Our journey continues as we follow the 

River Rhine south towards the Alberg region of 

Austria where we arrive at the Hotel Alberg late 

afternoon for the next five nights. 

Saturday 18th: A full day in St. Anton attending the 

‘Almabtrieh’ festival – a colourful event to celebrate 

bringing the cows, sheep and goats down from the 

mountains to shelter from the onset of autumn. 

Sunday 19th: An afternoon leisurely drive along the 

scenic Silveretta Pass, towards the summit of the 

Fluchthorn Mountain (3,399 ft) where you can stop 

for a coffee and a well earned photo opportunity. 

Monday 20th: A sightseeing tour through the Inn 

Valley and onto Innsbruck, the capital of the Austrian 

Tyrol, which has many attractions including the old 

ARLBERG HOTEL, St. Anton ★★★ 

Situated in the centre of St. Anton, the 3 

Star Arlberg Hotel offers a high standard of 

comfort in a warm, relaxing atmosphere. 

All rooms are equipped with a bath, toilet, 

telephone and a radio, most have a 

balcony. For relaxation you can enjoy the 

hotels leisure facilities that include an 

indoor swimming pool, steam bath, sauna 

and solarium. The Hotel has a bar and 

comfortable lounge. 

www.arlberg.com/hotel-arlberg 

quarter with its 

cobbled streets where 

you can stroll round 

the charming shops 

and cafes. 

Tuesday 21st: On 

our final excursion we 

firstly visit the tiny 

principality of 

Liechtenstein, set 

high in the hills and 

with a total area of 

only sixty-two square 

miles. The capital is 

Vaduz, where you will have time for a stroll and take 

refreshment. We will then travel onto Feldkirch the 

best preserved medieval township in Vorarlberg 

Austria. Stroll through the centuries and underneath 

the arcades of the romantic medieval centre. 

ABCDEH 


8 DAYS 

16TH–23RD 

SEPTEMBER 

£565 


INCLUDES: 



Two Overnight Stops with 

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast at 

Buschhausen Hotel in Aachen 

Five Nights Dinner, Bed & 

Breakfast at Arlberg Hotel in 

St. Anton 


Welcome Drink in Austria 

Farmers Buffet Dinner on One 

Evening 

Use of Leisure Facilities at 

Arlberg Hotel 

Wednesday 22nd: Regrettably it is 

time to take our leave of the Alberg 

Hotel and the village of St. Anton. 

Our Journey will take us to the 

German borders and the 

Buschhausen Hotel in Aachen where we stop for our 

final overnight. 

Thursday 23rd: The final part of the homeward 

journey will take us into France for the short Channel 

crossing back to Dover from where we head for 

home. 

(Please note; to enjoy the full benefit of this 

beautiful region some days are best suited to 

good weather conditions, and as a result these 

excursions may be swapped around to 

alternative days with better weather prospects, 

this will be left to the drivers discretion) 

9

10 

Black Forest 

Europe 

The Black Forest, or Schwarzwald to give it its German name, is 

famous the world over. Deeply rooted in its traditional culture 

and possibly best known as the home of the cuckoo clock, the 

Black Forest is an area of mountains and forest 200 kilometres 

long and up to 60 kilometres wide, which borders France in the 

west, and Switzerland in the south, Climatic, hydrotherapy and 

other health resorts are dotted all over the Black Forest, whose 

thermal springs have been prized since Roman times, The Enz, 

Nagold and Alb rivers and their tributaries have carved deep valleys 

into the densely wooded sandstone massif of the northern Black 

Forest region. A journey through the northern Black Forest takes 

you through forests of fir and pine and across high plateaus. Ferns 

and foxgloves carpet the woods, while broom and lupins flourish 

at the sides of the roads. 


Saturday 21st: We leave early morning and travel to 

Dover for the crossing to Calais from where we 

continue to our accommodation in Aachen on the 

German border, for dinner bed & breakfast. 

Sunday 22nd: Today we complete our journey to 

the Black Forest region and the Landhotel Rebstock, 

with time to settle into your new surroundings. You 

are then invited to join the Hotel for a welcome drink 

before your first night of four course buffet dinners. 

LANDHOTEL, REBSTOCK, SCHONACH 

This wonderful summer holiday resort and 

the ski-village and is No. 1 in the Black 

Forest with the most number of awards. 

Schonach is located in the middle of one of 

the most beautiful mountain valleys of the 

Black Forest, the birth place of the cuckooclock, 

which reputation and call has made 

the Black Forest cosines well known all 

over the world. The hotel is proud and 

happy to follow this tradition for more 

than 100 years and would like to offer a 

warm and heartfelt atmosphere, together 

with the updated demands for comfort and 

creation of leisure time facilities. The hotel 

is leisure facilities include a Swimming 

pool, sauna and solarium. 

Monday 23rd: After 

a relaxing breakfast 

we will head off for 

Half day Excursion to 

the capitol of the Black Forest, Freiburg. 

A magnificent Gothic cathedral dominates the town 

square where regular, colourful markets are held, 

selling handmade goods and local produce. There are 

some spectacular buildings in the old town. 

Tuesday 24th: Full day scenic tour to which will 

ABCDEFH 


8 DAYS 

21ST–28TH 

AUGUST 

£530 


INCLUDES: 


5 Nights Dinner bed & 

Breakfast in Resort 

Outward Over night Dinner 


Buschausen Hotel Aachen 

Homeward Over night Dinner 

Bed & Breakfast at the Altia 

Hotel Lille 


Four Course Buffet Dinners at 

Resort 

Tea & Coffee after Dinner 

Porterage 



include Schaffhausen & the Rhine 

Falls with its renaissance architecture 

Schaffhausen is one of Switzerland’s most attractive 

towns. The Rhine Falls are the most powerful in 

Europe, described by Goethe as the “Source of the 

Ocean”. 

Wednesday 25th: Full day tour into France visiting 

Colmar. The well preserved city houses of Colmar are 

very much of a German Gothic early renaissance style, 

with crooked houses, half-timbered and painted, on 

crooked lanes – all extremely pretty, and very touristy. 

Thursday 26th: Free day to explore Schonach. 

Friday 27th: Sadly we say our farewells to our hosts 

at the LandHotel and begin our journey to Lille in 

France for our overnight dinner bed & breakfast. 

Saturday 28th: After breakfast we will head north to 

the port of Calais for our short sailing to Dover, 

before continuing our final leg of our journey home. 

Please note; to enjoy the full benefit of this 





this will be left to the drivers discretion) 

Photo © Flickr – def110

Owen’s 

Europe 

Owen’s Travelmaster along with Keystage Travel, have been specialising in this type of tour for over 

20yrs, going back to the days when the Berlin Wall still stood, staying in both the East and the West 

of Berlin, which often involved travelling via the famous Checkpoint Charlie. These tours usually 

included travelling into Poland and the Czech Republic, something only a tiny number of coach 

operators where doing at the time. Averaging around 18 of these types of tours a year, with the sole 

purpose of teaching students from all over the UK about the history of the Third Reich, our drivers have 

become quite the specialists. Using our experiences and drivers knowledge, we have put together a truly 

remarkable tour for the benefit of our Coach Holiday customers. 


Sunday 18th: Morning departure as we head to Hull 

for our overnight dinner bed & breakfast 

accommodation on board the ship to Rotterdam. 

Monday 19th: Morning disembarkation at 

Rotterdam as we head out of Holland and into 

Germany, crossing what would have been the old East 

German border as we continue on to Berlin for our 2 

Nights Dinner Bed & Breakfast. 

Tuesday 20th: We begin the day with a 3hr guided 

tour of Berlin using a guide we have worked with for 

the last 20 years. You will be guided through Berlin’s 

long and varied history including the life of the 

Berliners that lived in two different worlds either side 

of the Berlin Wall from someone who lived it. 

Wednesday 21st: Morning departure as we head out 

of Germany and cross the border into Poland, 

Continuing onto Krakow for our 3 Nights Dinner Bed 

and Breakfast. 

Thursday 22nd: 

Free full day in 

Krakow, or take a 

free optional visit 

to Auschwitz and 

Birkenau. First we 

visit the Auschwitz 

museum and 

camp, located in 

the village of 

Oswiecim. 

GRAND CITY HOTEL ★★★ BERLIN 

Berlin East 

The Grand City Hotel Berlin East really stands 

out in the crowd with its standards of service. 

The hotel is situated just 4.5 miles from the 

famous Alexanderplatz, and has 161 spacious 

and comfortably equipped bedrooms offering 

modern 3 star comforts. 

www.grandcityhotels.com 

ABCDE 

New Tour 

for 2010 

Originally a Polish army barracks, and then converted 

by the Nazis into a slave labour camp for Polish 

prisoners. In 1942 it became the main Nazis 

extermination centre of Jews from all areas of Europe. 

The main site is a museum with photographs and 

exhibits, a planned trail leads you through the cells 

and ends up in one of the gas chambers. To learn 

more the next visit today will be to Birkenau, only 

about 5 minutes from the camp of Auschwitz. The 

sheer size of this camp is astonishing and eerie and 

entering the Death Gate is enough to send chills 

down your spine, this is the largest of Hitler’s camps. 

This is of course a sobering day, but one that most 

find very worthwhile. 

Friday 23rd: Today we take a trip to the Wieliczka 

Salt Mine, a truly unique experience. The mine is 

listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is 

located a short distance from Krakow’s center. 

Wieliczka Salt mine is one of the world’s oldest salt 

mines and although active mining was stopped in 

2007, it still continues to attract over 1 million tourists 

per year. The tour walks visitors through the mine – 

approx 3km – passing through some twenty 

chambers, 

containing 

statues 

and 

sculptures 

carved 

from rock 

WYSPIANSKI HOTEL ★★★ KRAKOW 

The Wyspianski Hotel in Krakow is a 

convenient hotel well adapted to the needs of 

leisure travelers, and with an excellent location 

only a five-minute walk away from the Old 

Town’s centre. After a complete renovation, 

the Wyspianski welcomes its guests with a 

cordial atmosphere and convenient facilities. 

www.hotel-wyspianski.pl 

ABCDE 

Berlin, Krakow & Prague 

salt (some by the 

original miners 

and some by 

today’s 

contemporary 

artists), past an 

underground 

lake and into, 

perhaps the 

most impressive 

and truly 

unbelievable 

chamber of all, 

an underground 

‘Catholic Cathedral’ carved from salt and stone. 

Saturday 24th: Morning departure as we head out 

of Poland and cross the border into the Czech 

Republic, Continuing onto Prague for our 2 Nights 

Dinner Bed and Breakfast. 

Sunday 25th: Free Day in Prague, our drivers will be 

able to guide through the cities main attractions. 

Monday 26th: Sadly we say our farewells to our 

hosts at the Adria Hotel and begin our journey out of 

Czech Republic across Germany and into Belgium for 

our overnight city centre stay in Liege, at the Ramada 

Plaza Hotel for dinner bed & breakfast. 

Tuesday 27th: After breakfast we will head to the 

port of Calais for our short sailing to Dover, before 

continuing our final leg of our journey home. 

ADRIA HOTEL ★★★★ PRAGUE 

ADRIA Hotel Prague is a top class four star 

hotel in the heart of Prague, offering complete 

services of a modern European hotel. Its 

location on the main Prague Boulevard 

Wenceslas Square makes it one of the most 

visited hotels in the city. Completely 

refurbished in 2007. 

www.adria.cz 

ABCDE 

RAMADA PLAZA, LIEGE 

www.ramadaplaza-liege.com 

ABCDE 

10 DAYS 

18TH–27TH JULY 

£899 


INCLUDES: 


1 Night bed (Cabin), Breakfast 

& Dinner, Hull to Rotterdam 

2 Nights bed, Hot /Cold Buffet 

Breakfast & Dinner, Grand 

City Hotel Berlin East 


Breakfast & 3 Course Dinner, 

Wyspianski Hotel Krakow 


Breakfast & Dinner, Adria 

Hotel Prague 

1 Night bed, Hot /Cold Buffet 

Breakfast & Dinner, Ramada 

Plaza, Liege 

Welcome Drinks in Berlin, 

Krakow & Prague 

Welcome Gift from the 

Wyspianski Hotel Krakow 

Free Optional Visit to Krakow 

Concentration Camp 

Tea & Coffee after Dinner in 

Berlin, Krakow, Prague & 

Liege 

Guided Tour of Berlin 

Visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine 


Calais Dover Return Crossing 

Booking Hotline: 01691 652126/654928 11

12 

Europe 

Lake Garda & The Dolomites 

New Tour 

for 2010 

Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake is perhaps the most beautiful lake 

in all of Europe. Its waters are incredibly transparent and the 

intense blue of the water and the luxurious vegetation add to its 

natural beauty. Garda’s expansive mirror surface glimmers deep 

within two rocky coastlines, its deepest point reaching down over 

340 meters. Its scenery differs from mountainous and jagged in the 

North to gently hilly in the South. Throughout the lake region the 

climate is pleasant and exceptionally mild which favours the 

growth of a predominately Mediterranean vegetation (olives, 

grapes, figs, oleanders, magnolias, palm trees, etc). The panoramic 

visions of Garda have seduced many other poets and artists such as 

Stendhal, Corot, Byron, Heine, Kafka, Carducci, and Ezra Pound. 

The picturesque villages and towns spread along the shore, offer a 

unique experience and a variety of natural and historical 

attractions along with excellent restaurants, outdoor coffee houses 

and open markets. 


Friday 1st: We leave early morning and travel to 

Dover for the crossing to Calais from where we 

continue to our accommodation in Aachen on the 

German border, for dinner bed & breakfast. 

Saturday 2nd: This morning we continue our 

journey through Germany to the city of Stuttgart for 

our second overnight stay. 

Sunday 3rd: After breakfast we continue through 

Germany past MÜnchen and into Austria, we will then 

bypass Innsbruck, before crossing over the border 

into Northern Italy, then on to our resort on Lake 

Garda itself. 

Monday 4th: Today 

we tour the Trentino 

Dolomites with a stop 

at Madonna di 

Campiglio and the 

Lake Molveno. 

Admire the dramatic 

Alpine landscape with 

CARAVEL HOTEL Torbole ★★★★ 

Located on Italy’s most beautiful lake, just a 

short walk from the long beach at Torbole, 

Hotel Caravel’s distinctive, slender shape is 

reminiscent both of the sheer cliffs at the 

water’s edge and of the clean lines of a 

majestic ship that is ready to glide across 

the lake. The Hotel has elected to focus on 

service and through the quality of the 

accommodation they provide. Accordingly, 

it has created an excellent buffet restaurant, 

with specially prepared dishes to satisfy any 

palate, as well as a wonderful bar (with free 

Wi-Fi access). The Hotel also has an exclusive 

open-air swimming pool. The guest rooms 

are modern, clean and functional, with 

every room offering: private bathroom; air 

conditioning; colour TV with satellite 

channels; direct-dial telephone; hair dryer; 

safety deposit box; high-speed connection 

point for PCs and all guest rooms come 

complete with a large balcony for romantic 

evenings under the stars. 

www.caravelhotel.it 

ABCEH 

jagged snow capped Peakes and colourful meadows 

alive with wild flowers. 

Tuesday 5th: Full day tour to Verona, the romantic 

capital of Europe situated on the banks of the River 

Adige, Verona boasts a rich array of art and 

architecture, and one of the finest examples of a 

Roman Amphitheatre, and not forgetting 

Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliette’s Balcony. 

Wednesday 6th: Full day tour to Sirmione where the 

historical centre is pedestrianised and is probably the 

most picturesque town on the lake, full of narrow 

winding lanes busy with tourists. Orienting yourself 

can be confusing, but the town is so small that you 

can’t get lost for long. Sirmione is beautiful 

throughout filled with lakeside restaurants and 

endearing shops, but its two main tourist attractions 

are the castle and the Roman ruins. A panoramic walk 

(signposted) leads out around the promontory, and 


9 DAYS 

1ST–9TH 

OCTOBER 

£665 


INCLUDES: 


5 Nights Dinner bed & 

Breakfast in Resort 


I Gala Dinner With Music 

Porterage at Resort 



Mercure Hotel Aachen 



Mercure Hotel Stuttgart 

Homeward Over night Dinner 

Bed & Breakfast at the Nova 

Hotel Metz 



on a clear day you can enjoy great 

views over the lake and towards the 

mountains in the north. We will 

return via the beautiful town of 

Peschiera del Garda. 

Thursday 7th: Free Day in Torbole. 

Friday 8th: This morning we start 

to head for home, but a different 

route than the inward journey. Firstly 

we bypass Milan before heading North through the 

stunning Swiss Alps, passing Lake Luzern and on into 

France for our overnight in Metz France. 

Saturday 9th: After breakfast, we will now complete 

the final leg of our journey as we head north to the 

port of Calais for our short sailing to Dover. As we 

travel back up through England you may wish to think 

back at all the other Countries you’ve travelled, 

Belgium, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland & France 

while continuing our final leg of our journey home. 

Please note; to enjoy the full benefit of this 





this will be left to the drivers discretion)

New Tour 

for 2010 

Owen’s Monschau 

Areal hidden treasure of a town, with some wonderfully preserved and 

distinctive buildings dating from its time as the thriving linen capital of the 

area. Visit the mustard mill or the roman glassworks. Take a stroll to the castle 

overlooking the town or visit the red house museum to see how the wealthy 

merchants lived. Monschau has it s own brewery too, at the Felsenkeller. 


Thursday 14th: We leave this morning heading for 

Dover for our short sea crossing to Calais. We 

continue through Belgium into Germany and onto 

the Carat Hotel in Monschau. 

Friday 15th: Full day tour to Koln where the 

cathedral spires tower over Germany’s oldest city and 

its innumerable cultural and historical treasures, 

world-famous museums and active art scene. During 

World War II approximately 72 percent of the city area 

of Cologne was destroyed, with the picturesque part 

of the Old Town almost destroyed completely and 

had to be completely restored; now a stroll through 

the narrow, cobble-stoned alleys will take you back to 

times long ago. Koln’s shopping offers department 

stores and shops in Hohe Straße and 

Schildergasse, whereas the more 

traditional shops in the “Belgian 

Quarter”, offering everything from 

embroidered pillowcases to artful 

jewellery. 

Saturday 16th: Free day to explore 

Monschau. 

Sunday 17th: Full day tour to Aachen where in the 

Middle Ages Aachen was the seat of emperors and 

kings, and the scene of many coronations and 

imperial diets. Its hot springs made this city, at the 

foot of the Eifel hills, the favourite residence of 

Charlemagne, who built a palace here. The pedestrian 

precincts in the picturesque old town are a lovely 

Europe 

Hotel Carat Monschau 

★★★ 

This attractive 3 star Hotel 

is situated in a quite 

location by a pretty stream 

and only 300m from the 

centre of Monschau with 

its winding, cobbled 

streets and old buildings. 

The restaurant has been 

recently renovated and is a 

perfect setting in which to 

enjoy the excellent food. 

The 100 bedrooms have 

also been recently 

renovated and have 

facilities including, en-suite 

bathroom, Satellite TV and 

hairdryer. The hotel’s own 

skittles alley and games 

area is ideal place to spend 

the evening, or enjoy a 

drink in the bistro style bar. 

ABCEH 

5 DAYS 

14TH–18TH OCT 

£319 


INCLUDES: 


Channel Ferry Crossing 

All Rooms with 

Private Facilities 

Welcome Drink at Hotel 

4 Nights Bed, Hot & cold 

Buffet Breakfasts & Dinners 

1 Night at the Hotel 

Skittles Alley 


Happy Hour in the Bar 

Between 8-9pm (30-50% on 

Selected Drinks) 

Free use of Pool & Sauna 

place for a stroll and a spot of window-shopping . 

There are lots of little shops clustered around the 

cathedral and town hall which sell interesting and 

unusual goods. We return via the Effiel Mountains. 

Monday 18th: Sadly its time to leave Monschau and 

head to the port of Calais and our ferry to Dover. 

After we disembark from our ferry we travel 

homeward. 

Rhineland Carnival in Aachen 

Aachen belongs to the Rhineland, which may come as a surprise seeing that the Rhine is 75 kilometres 

away. For anyone who knows the Aachen Carnival, however, there can hardly be any doubt as to where 

Aachen belongs, considering the fact that Aachen together with Cologne, Düsseldorf and Mainz is firmly in 

the hands of this uniquely Rhenish fifth season of the year. The first Carnival Associations were founded here 

as early as the beginning of the 19th century. The Aacheners (Öcher) carnival motto “Spass an der Freud” 

(Have fun with joy in your heart) is concise and easy to remember. They sing arm in arm, they dance and 

laugh, they drink and jest. From the eleventh day in the eleventh month more than 50 Carnival Associations 

and their bands have been welcoming in the Carnival in Charlemagne’s city and making sure that the events 

have the right note of carefree abandon. 


Saturday 13th: We leave early morning and travel 

to Dover for the crossing to Calais from where we 

continue to our accommodation in Aachen for a 

welcome drink before dinner. 

Sunday 14th: Today we travel to Bad Münstereifel a 

historical spa town in the Eifel mountain range. It is 

one of the rare towns in the Rhineland region to have 

Buschhausen Hotel Aachen ★★★ 

The Buschhausen Hotel in Aachen is a 

comfortable family establishment offers 

spacious bedrooms decorated in a 

modern style and including up to date 

facilities. You can dine at the restaurant 

serving French cuisine and local dishes as 

well as a great selection of wines in 

elegant settings. 

ABCDEH 

kept its medieval ramparts intact. This evening enjoy 

a 3 course Buffet with specialities from the Ardennes 

followed by a skittles competition with prizes. 

Monday 15th: After breakfast meet in the bar for an 

introduction into carnival songs, facepainting and a 

warm-up for the procession with a drink of beer. 

Traditional pea-soup, sausages and Brezeln will be 


4 DAYS 

13–16 FEBRUARY 

£260 


INCLUDES: 



3 Nights Evening Meal, Bed & 

Breakfast Accommodation 


Welcome Drink 

provided before 

taking the walk 

to the colourful 

Rosemonday procession with nearly 140 groups. 

We then visit the Carnival party at Aachen Cathedral. 

Tuesday 16th: We leave after breakfast and return 

to Calais and home. 

13

14 

Ostend 

Europe 

Ostend has a very individual charm, characteristic sea front, mariners, parks, bustling markets and 

shops, lively nightlife and its centre piece casino. There are also fish and sea food stalls along the 

pier, a miniature railway, horse drawn carriage rides through the city and many parades, festivals, 

markets and fairs to enjoy. 


Day 1: We travel south to Dover and take the short 

sea crossing to Calais from where we continue to 

Ostend. 

Day 2: A day at leisure to enjoy the many sights in 

Ostend. 

Day 3: Full day tour to Antwerp which is the real 

urban deal, a refreshingly down-to-earth yet vivacious 

cosmopolitan habitat blessed with magnificent 

architecture, fashionable shop fronts, beer-washed 

Honfleur, Normandy 


Sunday 6th: We travel south to Portsmouth and 

board the Brittany Ferry for our overnight crossing 

to Caen. 

Monday 7th: After disembarking our ferry we travel 

to Bayeux via the coast road. Bayeux’s perfectly 

preserved medieval ensemble, magnificent cathedral 

and world famous tapestry make it a high point for 

pubs, dazzling monuments, inspired artworks and 

restaurant tables piled with plates of superb Belgian 

and multicultural food. Antwerp, home of the Flemish 

Baroque master Rubens, not only has a wealth of 

outstanding museums, picturesque galleries, sculpted 

streets and beautiful architecture, but is also laced 

with refreshing greenery, urban haunts and world 

class shopping. 

Day 4: Full Day tour to Brugge with its network of 

cobbled streets, gabled houses and tree lined canals; 

New Tour 

for 2010 

our tour. We continue to Honfleur and check-in at the 

Hotel de la Tour. 

Tuesday 8th: Travelling along the coast to Trouville 

we make our way to Rouen the site of Joan d’Arc’s 

demise. Rouen has a wealth of fine shops, a splendid 

cathedral and a maze of pretty pedestrianised streets 

with some great monuments. The main square, Place 

Vieux Marche is surrounded by half timbered houses 

and the Gros Horloge, a colourful one handed clock 

RAMADA HOTEL, 

Ostend 

The Hotel is situated in 

the City Centre of Ostend, 

Walking distance from 

Beach – Casino – Kursaal 

– Shopping Area. Public 

Transportation and Taxi in 

Front of Hotel. Lounge 

area with Free Local and 

English Newspaper. Bar 

with Happy Hour. 

The hotel was renovated 

during 2009. 

ABDEF 

Our tour is based in Honfleur the best preserved of the old ports of Normandy and has a charming 

harbour with cafés dotted along the yacht dockside. The old town and harbour has the cosy 

atmosphere of a fishing village and the slate fronted houses make it one of the prettiest spots in Normandy! 

5 DAYS 


27TH SEPT– 

1ST OCT 

£335 


INCLUDES: 


4 Nights Dinner, Bed & 

Breakfast 



together the friendliness of the Flanders people, 

Brugge is one of the most beautiful towns in Europe. 

You can stroll down the streets; take a delightful trip 

on the canals or a horse drawn carriage sightseeing 

tour. We finish today with a trip to Sluis just over the 

Belgium border into Holland. 

Day 5: We depart after breakfast and return to Calais 

for the crossing to Dover and home. 

Hotel de la Tour, 

Honfleur ★★★ 

The 3 Star Hotel de la 

Tour is situated only a few 

minutes walk from the 

pretty old town and 

harbour. The hotel has a 

welcoming atmosphere 

and guests will feel at 

home in the cosy bar or 

comfortable and well 

decorated breakfast room. 

The 48 bedrooms are a 

good size , nicely 

decorated and all have 

satellite TV and hairdryer. 

ABDE 


5 DAYS 


£345 

Single Room Supplement 

£113 

2 pax in 4 berth inside cabin 

(lower beds) 

£36 per cabin 

2 pax in 4 berth outside cabin 

(bunk beds) 

£23.50 per cabin 

2 pax in 4 berth outside cabin 

(lower beds) 

£59.50 per cabin 

INCLUDES: 


Return Crossings Portsmouth 

– Caen 

Three Cold Buffet Breakfasts 

is also worth Welcome Drink at Hotel 

spotting. 

Porterage 

Wednesday 


9th: A free day 

in Honfleur. 

Thursday 10th: An early start this morning as we 

travel back to Caen for the early morning crossing to 

Portsmouth from where we return home.

Owen’s Amsterdam and the Dutch Bulbfields 

Europe’s largest and most beautiful spring gardens ‘KEUKENHOF’ opens its doors every spring to 

visitors. See the dazzling displays of tulips, narcissi, hyacinths and other bulb flowers in all their glory 

covering over 32 hectares. It is a magnificent park with ongoing indoor and outdoor exhibitions which 

are quite unique. Take home lots of ideas for your own garden! 


Thursday 29th: Travel to Hull for the P&O overnight ferry to 

Rotterdam. 

Friday 30th: On arrival in Rotterdam, We disembark after breakfast 

and head to Keukenhof Gardens. Famed for its breathtaking 

displays of bulbs, Keukenhof has a whopping six million bulbs 

bloom every year to form a sea of flowers, between March and May. 

Admire the exuberant colours of spring, and possibly pick up a few 

tips for home in the seven themed gardens. Keukenhof spring 

flowers blend beautifully in a landscape of established trees, 

As if the Grand Place – one of the world’s 

most beautiful squares – was not 

spectacular enough, every two years the 

Belgians cover it with a carpet of flowers. 

The enterprise involves considerable time 

and effort, when you think that over 300 

square metres have to be covered with a 

massive 800,000 fresh begonias and covers 

300 square metres right in the centre of the 

Grand Place. The blooms then have to be 

kept fresh for four days in the scorching 

August heat, helped by the addition of 

fountains within the pattern of the carpet. 

The end result, however, is well worth it. 

The multicoloured carpet forms a stunning 

centrepiece to the square, often including 

scenes from Belgian folklore and myth 

amongst its intricate designs. 

flowering shrubs, a huge variety of perennials, water gardens, 

fountains and a large lake. We continue to the Tulip Inn Amsterdam 

Riverside for 2 night’s bed, breakfast & buffet dinner. 

Saturday 1st: Full day to Amsterdam Holland’s most vibrant city boasts 

165 canals, 1281 bridges, 42 museums and many great sights. Admire 

the 17th century merchant houses or the floating flower market, which 

is ablaze with colour in every season. Amsterdam has many traditional 

and contemporary art galleries, and is a haven for shoppers. 

Sunday 2nd: After breakfast we travel North to De Simonehoeve a 

local cheese farm and wooden shoe factory, for demonstrations of 

5 DAYS 

29TH APRIL– 

3RD MAY 

£389 


INCLUDES: 


Return overnight Ferry 

Crossings including cabins, 

Dinner & Breakfast 


Two Nights 3 Course Buffet 

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast at 

Resort 

Welcome Drink on Arrival 

Visit to Keukenhof Gardens 

how these traditional Dutch products are made. We will then 

continue on to the nearby old fishing village of Volendam, wellknown 

for its old fishing boats and the traditional clothing still worn 

by some residents. The women’s costume of Volendam, with its 

high, pointed bonnet, is one of the most recognizable of the Dutch 

traditional costumes, and is often featured on tourist postcards and 

posters. In the afternoon we’ll return to the port of Rotterdam to 

embark for your overnight voyage to Hull. 

Monday 3rd: Arrive in Hull. Disembark after breakfast and 

return home. 

Brussels – a Carpet of Flowers 


Friday 13th: Morning departure to Dover for a Channel 

crossing to Calais and on to Brussels arriving at our hotel 

for check-in. 

Saturday 14th: A day at leisure to sample cosmopolitan 

Brussels on your own. The magnificent Grand Place, with its 

ornate buildings, the spectacular Carpet of Flowers, the 

modern shopping centre, lace shops, the Mannekin Pis, 

they all await you in the compact city. At night take dinner in 

one of the many restaurants just off the Grand Place, or if 

you wish eat in the hotel. 

Europe 

P&O Hull-Rotterdam 

You can enjoy great onboard entertainment and delicious food choices on board 

your Hull ferry to Holland. You’ll be assured of a good night’s sleep too, thanks to 

our comfortable Ensuite cabins. Taking the ferry to Rotterdam will cut miles of 

driving from our journey, and as it’s all at night, those miles will disappear while you 

are asleep. When you wake up the next morning, you’ll arrive at Rotterdam 

refreshed and ready to go. 

TULIP INN ★★★ Amsterdam Riverside 

Tulip Inn Amsterdam Riverside is a 3-star hotel located near the river Gaasp, and 

the district of Weesp, the hotel itself is approximately 8 miles from Amsterdam City 

Centre. The hotel has 192 spacious bedrooms, a Bar and Restaurant and when the 

sun is shining you can have a cocktail on the terrace. The hotels attractive rooms are 

exceptionally large and equipped with all facilities, such as comfortable bathroom, 

television, radio and telephone. 

www.tulipinnamsterdamriverside 

New Tour 

for 2010 

ABCDE 

CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL ★★★★ 

Brussels City Centre – Le Palace 

When visiting Brussels, the Crowne Plaza Brussels City Centre – 

Le Palace is definitely where you want to stay! The hotel is ideally 

situated just a short walk from the Grand Place and the main 

shopping area, and is located next to the botanical gardens. You 

can easily reach the exhibition centres, World Trade Centre and 

NATO headquarters and the EU district (European commission, 

European Union and European Parliament). 

Dating back to 1908, the Crowne Plaza Brussels City Centre hotel 

has a long and distinguished history and has been at the heart of 

Brussels daily life since the day it opened. 

The hotel has been fully refurbished. The architect turned to the 

Art Nouveau lines and curls of Gustav Klimt (1862-1918) for 

inspiration, echoing Le Palace’s (1908) original turn-of-thecentury 

style. 

www.crowneplazabrussels.be 

ABCDE 


4 DAYS 

13TH–16TH 

AUGUST 

£235 


INCLUDES: 


Three Nights Bed & Buffet 

Breakfast 



Sunday 15th: A full day excursion to Brugges, often 

referred to as the ‘Venice of the North’, combining 

Picturesque scenery and historic interest. This charming 

medieval city, with a network of beautiful canals and 

impressive buildings is one of the architectural gems of 

Europe. 

Monday 16th: We return home after breakfast via Ghent, 

the ancient capital of Flanders. Ghent is a city of great style 

and elegance, boasting a wonderful legacy of stunning 

medieval architecture, splendid churches, imposing castles 

and historic monuments. 

15

16 

Jersey by Air 

The largest and 

most 

southerly of the 

Channel Islands, 

Jersey is just 14 

miles from the 

coast of France, 

giving the island a 

continental flair. 

Golden sands, sparkling seas, rugged 

cliffs, picturesque harbours and 

fascinating countryside are just a few of 

the natural attractions that await the 

visitor to Jersey. Situated on the edge of 

the Gulf Stream the island slopes from 

north to south to face the sun and boasts 

the best sunshine record in the British 

Isles and a climate which is generally 

milder in all seasons than the UK. 

INCLUDED EXCURSIONS: 

An afternoon coach excursion taking in much of the coastline 

of the island with stops being made for photographs of different 

landmarks. 

A morning coach excursion has been arranged to include the 

other side of the island that you didn’t see on your previous 

tour, once again stops will be made for photographs and 

refreshments (not included) before returning to the hotel 

around lunchtime. 

Your final afternoon tour where you will enjoy the beautiful 

inland countryside of Jersey with an opportunity to overlook the 

nearby French coast and our neighbouring islands, weather 

permitting of course before returning to the hotel. 

These excursions are on 7 and 8 day tours only 

N.B. Tour itinerary subject to change 

Channel Islands/Ireland 

INCLUDES: 

Return Transport to your Departure Airport Return Air Travel to Jersey including Taxes 

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast Accommodation Return Transfers from Airport to your Hotel 

3 Half Day Excursions on 7 or 8 day tours Meet & Greet service on arrival One Piece hold Baggage per person 

The air content of these holidays is contracted with TravTel International (ATOL 1218) whose registered office is 

43 Bath Street, St. Helier, Jersey, JE2 4SU and whose booking conditions apply to these holidays. 

Ambassadeur Hotel, 

St. Clement 

Enjoying a fabulous sea front 

location this hotel overlooks the 

wide sands of St. Clement’s Bay 

and is just a few minutes bus ride 

from the centre of St. Helier. 

Facilities at this comfortable hotel 

include a quiet lounge, restaurant 

and bar, plus a sun terrace an 

outdoor pool (seasonal). 

Entertainment on some evenings. 

ABCDEFH 

The Norfolk Lodge Hotel, 

St. Helier 

One of Jersey’s most successful 

family hotels, the Norfolk Lodge is 

always a good choice situated in 

one of St. Helier’s best residential 

areas, the hotel is only half a mile 

from the town shops and beaches. 

The strengths of the hotel include 

its superb new indoor swimming 

pool complex, and of course, the 

lively entertainment programme 

including cabaret and dancing on 

certain nights. 

ABCDEFGH 

Enniscorthy & County Wexford 

Monterey Hotel, St. Helier 

Sporting both indoor and outdoor 

swimming-pools, you can 

appreciate the Monterey Leisure 

Club facilities then relax in the 

comfortable lounges, tastefully 

designed and furnished around a 

Parisian theme. The restaurant, 

Gordini’s, is able to offer a range of 

cuisine for your enjoyment. 

ABCDEFH 

Aholiday in Wexford can match anything that more exotic locations have to offer. Boasting over 115kms of 

golden coastline popular with families wishing to escape the noise and pressure of city living. Its historic 

past ensures that there is much to see, do and explore. Enniscorthy is an old Norman settlement situated on 

the banks of the River Slaney. On the west bank of the river, the Gothic church of Saint Aidans reminds us that 

Enniscorthy is the Cathedral town of the county. Dominating the town is the Norman Castle which was 

completed in 1205 and now houses the County Wexford Folk Museum. 


Sunday 8th: Early Departure for Fishguard for the 

sailing to Rosslare before continuing on to Treacy’s 

Hotel Enniscorthy. Your evening meal will be followed 

by a live band in the Temple Bar. 

Monday 9th: Today we take a full day excursion to 

Cork and Blarney. We begin with Cork, the largest 

city in the south of the Republic. Just outside the 

city is Blarney Castle home of the famous “Stone of 

Eloquence”. We will return in plenty of time for your 

evening meal and entertainment. 

Tuesday 10th: Half Day trip to Waterford, Ireland’s 

Norfolk Lodge Monterey Ambassadeur Norfolk 

5 DAYS 

26TH APRIL £395 N/A £375 £365 

11TH OCT 

7 DAYS 

£395 N/A £375 £365 

15TH MAY £550 £595 £500 £495 

12TH JUNE £580 £625 £530 £515 

18TH SEPT 

8 DAYS 

£545 £595 £540 £495 

7TH AUG £650 £699 £610 £550 

N.B. The August departure is 8 Days for the Battle of the Flowers week and includes a 

grandstand ticket to the parade. 

Treacy’s Hotel, Enniscorthy ★★★ 

Step through the doors of Treacy’s Hotel in County Wexford 

where you will be treated to a very warm welcome, gracious 

hospitality and a superior standard of personal friendly 

service. The Hotel offers 60 deluxe bedrooms in exceptional 

comfort, facilities offered as standard in their rooms include; 

Hypnosis Beds, LCD TV’s, Air-conditioning, Free Wireless high 

speed Internet Access, Safety Deposit Box’s, Iron & easy 

folding Ironing Boards, Smoking & Non Smoking Rooms. 

www.treacyshotel.com 

ABCDEFGH 

oldest tourist destination. A walled city of Viking 

origin, it retains much of its medieval character 

together with the graceful buildings from its 18th 

century expansion. The evening meal will be followed 

by a Quiz Night. 

Wednesday 11th: Full day experiencing the scenic 

beauty of the Wicklow Mountains. You will travel 

towards Arklow where a short distance away is Avoca, 

the setting for “Ballykissangel” and home of Ireland’s 

oldest working mill in Ireland, Avoca Hand weavers. 

Visitors can watch the weavers produce beautiful 


tweeds before 

viewing the 

finished product 

in the adjoining 

shop. The return 

Norfolk Hotel, St. Helier 

This popular excellent value for 

money hotel is situated right in the 

centre of St. Helier, within easy 

strolling distance of Howard Davis 

Park and the shops, bars and 

restaurants. During high season 

entertainment is provided during 

the week and the hotel has a 

outdoor swimming pool 

(seasonal). 

ABDEFGH 

5 DAYS 


£245 


INCLUDES: 



Breakfast 

2 Nights Live Entertainment 

Including a 4 Piece Traditional 

Irish Band 

1 Pub Quiz Night 

1 Games Night, Choice of 

Bingo or Play Your Cards Right 

Jameson’s Experience Each 

Night ‘Make your own 

Jameson’s Hot Whiskey or 

Creamy Irish Coffee 


Return Crossings From 

Fishguard to Rosslare 

trip to Enniscorthy takes in the Wicklow Gap, 

Hollywood and Tullow. Tonight is games night with a 

choice of Bingo or Play Your Cards Right. 

Thursday 12th: We say farewell to Enniscorthy and 

take the short drive to Rosslare for the 9am sailing to 

Fishguard before continuing our journey home.

Owen’s 


Ireland 

D 

ABCDEF 

ungarvan located on the mouth of the Colligan 

river and with the Comeragh Mountains in the 

background, the town has much to offer with miles of clean sandy beach for a family day out. 

Grattan Square is the central point of the town, where many shops can be explored for the perfect gift. 

There is a wide range of activities to choose from including horse riding, fishing in the lakes and rivers, 

tennis to pitch and putt. We have three magnificent Championship golf courses to choose from. 

Dungarvan is a lovely location for visiting the south coast of Ireland. 


Friday 5th: Early Departure for Pembroke for the 

sailing to Rosslare before continuing on to the 

Lawlors Hotel Dungarvan. 

Saturday 6th: Today we take a full day Excursion to 

Cork and Blarney. We begin with Cork, the largest city 

in the south of the Republic. Cork City is Ireland’s 

third city (after Dublin and Belfast) and has always 

been an important seaport. It began on an island in 

the swampy estuary of the River Lee (the name 

Corcaigh means a marsh), and gradually climbed up 

the steep banks on either side. Today the river flows 

through Cork city in two main channels, so that you 

find yourself constantly crossing bridges. Some of the 

main streets are built over channels where ships 

nuzzled their anchor-chains a century ago. Along the 

South Mall, you will see large gateways at street level, 

under steps leading to a higher main door. These were 

once boathouses, when merchants arrived at their 

Think of Ireland and what do your thoughts conjure up, traditional music, spectacular dancing, 

beautiful crystal, delicious Irish whiskey, kissing the Blarney Stone? You can enjoy all this and more 

on our 4 day break to the beautiful south-east corner of the Emerald Isle. 


Friday 23rd: Early Departure for Holyhead for the 

sailing to Dun Laoghaire near Dublin before 

continuing on to the Grand Hotel Tramore. 

Saturday 24th: We travel via Youghal to Midleton, 

home of the Jameson Heritage Centre. This 

museum, which has the largest pot still in the 

world, depicts the story of Irish whiskey with a tour 

of the old distillery and no visit is complete without 

a whiskey tasting. Continue to Blarney to visit the 

Castle and take part in the long-standing tradition 

Irelands South Coast 

Lawlors Hotel, Dungarvan ★★★ 

Welcome to Lawlors Hotel Dungarvan, one of the 

best known hotels in Waterford is part of the Whites 

Hotel Group Ireland. Its a long established 

southeast Ireland hotel located by Dungarvan 

Harbour, where the River Colligan broadens and 

enters the sea. 

They offer warm, comfortable accommodation with 

spacious bedrooms. All recently renovated, each 

room offers the traditional comforts and modern 

facilities combined with simple touches of elegance. 

www.lawlorshotel.com 

of kissing the Blarney Stone to receive ‘the gift 

of eloquence’. 

Sunday 25th: A morning visit to Waterford where 

we will be met by the legendry Jack Burtchaell, your 

tour will take you through the history of the town in 

a way only Jack can, History, Stand up Comedian 

and Amateur Dramatics, and you’ll get the picture. 

We then travel north to Kilkenny, set in a 

commanding position overlooking the River Nore, 

Kilkenny Castle is centre stage of ‘Ireland’s Medieval 

4 DAYS 

5–8 MARCH 

£195 


INCLUDES: 



Breakfast 

1 Pub Quiz Night 

Free Irish Gift 


Outward Crossing Pembroke- 

Rosslare 

Return Crossing Dublin- 

Holyhead 

warehouses by water. Just outside the city is Blarney 

Castle home of the famous “Stone of Eloquence”. 

Sunday 7th: Day at leisure to explore Dungarvan. 

Monday 8th: We say farewell to our host as we 

travel via Enniscorthy and Arklow, Continuing along 

the coastal road at the foot of the Wicklow Mountains 

via Newcastle, Greystones and Bray, completing the 

journey to Dublin for a mid afternoon sailing to 

Holyhead. 

An Irish Jig in Tramore 

Grand Hotel, Tramore, 

Co Wexford ★★★ 

The Grand Hotel opened its doors in 

1790 and for over 200 years its name has 

been synonymous with the grace and 

style of that era. It overlooks the golden 

strand of Tramore, which is probably the 

most enchanting and the most popular of 

the Atlantic resorts. The Grand Hotel is 

owned and managed by the Treacy family 

and has been refurbished to combine 

luxury with the elegance of a bygone age. 

www.grand-hotel.ie 

ABCDEFG 

4 DAYS 

23–26 APRIL 

£245 


INCLUDES: 



Breakfast 

3 Nights Entertainment 


Return Crossings from 

Holyhead to Dun Laoghaire 

Live Entertainment Each Night 

Walk Tour with ‘Jack’ 

Entrance to Jameson Whiskey 

City’ and one of its most famous castles. Visit the 

Kilkenny Design Centre in the castle stable block, or 

just relax with a pint of Smithwicks in one of the 

city’s 80 pubs! 

Monday 26th: We say farewell to our host as we 

travel via Enniscorthy and Arklow, Continuing along 

the coastal road at the foot of the Wicklow 

Mountains via Newcastle, Greystones and Bray, 

completing the journey to Dun Laoghaire for early 

afternoon HSS sailing to Holyhead. 

17

18 

Westport County Mayo 

Westport, designated one of 

Bord Failte’s Heritage 

Towns, is situated in the shadow 

of Croagh Patrick, overlooking 

Clew Bay. One of the few 

planned towns in the Country, 

Westport was designed in the 

18th Century by James Wyatt. 

It has become one of Ireland’s 

established tourism centres, with 

many outstanding features, most 

notably the beautiful tree lined 

boulevard known as The Mall, 

running parallel to the Carrowbeg River. 


Saturday 10th: Early departure for Holyhead for 

the ferry to Ireland and on to Tullamore for our 

overnight stay. 

Sunday 11th: We continue our journey across 

Ireland to Galway. Where Music, festivals, horse 

racing, pubs, restaurants, and, most of all, Galway 

people, all combine to characterize this atmospheric 

medieval city of culture. Continue to Westport, where 

we stay for three nights. 

Monday 12th: In the morning experience the beauty 

and tranquility of Kylemore Abbey Estate, set in the 

heart of the Connemara Mountains. Stroll around the 

six-acre Victorian walled garden and browse in the 

craft shop, where some of the delicious home-cooked 

food can be sampled. The afternoon is free to spend 

time in the lovely town of Westport overlooking Clew 

The Cliffs of Moher, County Clare 

Spanish Point is located on the 

west coast of County Clare 

Ireland. Spanish Point takes it’s 

name from the unfortunate 

Spanish who died here in 1588, 

when many ships of the Spanish 

Armada were wrecked during 

stormy weather. 

Now day’s Spanish point is a lot more 

welcoming to its visitors. People enjoy the 

beach and seaside activities that are available 

here during the summer. The Cliffs of Moher 

are one of Ireland’s top Visitor attractions. 

Ireland 


Thursday 27th: Early Departure for Fishguard for the 

ferry to Ireland and on to Waterford for our overnight 

stay at the Dooley’s Hotel, Central Waterford. 

Friday 28th: Today we head for the west coast 

stopping off at Limerick, for the chance to discover 

this ancient city, with its charming views along the 

River Shannon, before going on to visit Ireland’s 

picture postcard village of Adare. And finally on to the 

beautiful Cliffs of Moher coastline, and the Bellbridge 

Hotel for 3 nights dinner, bed and breakfast. 

Saturday: 29th: Today we head of for a full day visit 

to Galway city. There is certain chemistry and vibrancy 

to this friendly City, music, festivals, pubs, restaurants, 

shops, theatres and most of all Galway people, 

combine to create this atmospheric medieval city. 

Galway City is one of the fastest growing cities in 

Bay in the shadow of 

Croagh Patrick. 

Tuesday 13th: Today a day 

of glorious scenery awaits, 

as we further explore the 

rugged West Coast. We 

head to Foxford woollen 

mill. Located on the ground floor the Mill shop 

stocks a wide range of Irish made giftware. We 

continue on to Ballina, home of the famous River 

Moy and county Mayo’s largest town. Among Ballina’s 

key visitor attractions are the ruins of Moyne Abbey, 

and Rosserk Friary dating back to the 15th century 

and the impressive St. Muredach’s Cathedral. 

Wednesday 14th: We leave Westport and head east 

to Dublin City, where we will be met by a guide to 

give us a fascinating city tour. We will then make our 

Europe and has 

become the third 

city in the Republic 

of Ireland after 

Dublin and Cork. 

Sunday 30th: Today 

we explore County 

Claire’s dramatic coast 

and country, taking in 

DAYS HOTEL TULLAMORE ★★★ 

www.dayshoteltullamore.com 

ABCDEF 

THE MILL TIMES HOTEL ★★★ 

Welcome to the Mill Times Hotel, 

Westport’s finest superior boutique 

family hotel in County Mayo, located 

right in the town centre of Westport 

and is situated in one of Ireland’s 

most idyllic settings. The Mill Times 

Hotel has recently been awarded the 

prestigious 3 star AA & Failte Ireland 

status. 

www.milltimeshotel.ie 

ABCDEF 

REGENCY HOTEL ★★★ Dublin 

www.regencyhotels.com 

ABCDEFH 

some of the region’s natural beauty, as we enjoy a 

circular tour travelling via O’Brien’s Tower, Ballyvaghan 

over looking Galway Bay, Kinvarra, and then south 

through Gort and Ennis on the River Shannon. 

Monday 31st: Sadly after breakfast its time to leave 

Spanish Point, this time heading back across country, 

driving through the Slieve Broom mountain range 

travelling to Birr a designated Irish Heritage Town 


way to our 

overnight 

Dinner, Bed & 

Breakfast at the 

Regency Hotel. 

Thursday 

15th: Depart 

THE BELLBRIDGE HOUSE HOTEL 

★★★ Spanish Point, Milton Malbay 

The Bellbridge House Hotel provides fast & easy 

access to all the magic that West Clare has to offer. 

Situated by the Sandy Beach of Spanish point, the 

traditional exterior reflects the “old fashioned” 

courtesy & personal service found inside. Popular 

with the locals & visitors alike they have acquired 

one of the best reputations in the area for 

delicious meals. The accommodation at the 

Bellbridge House Hotel in West Clare is first-rate. 

www.bellbridgehotelclare.com 

ABCDEF 

DOOLEY’S HOTEL WATERFORD ★★★ 

www.dooleys-hotel.ie 

ABCDEF 

THE ROYAL HOTEL BRAY ★★★ 

www.royalhotel.ie 

ABCDEF 

New Tour 

for 2010 

6 DAYS 


£425 


INCLUDES: 


Dublin City Tour 

Entrance to the Kylemore 

Abbey Estate 

1 Night Dinner Bed & 

Breakfast at the Days Hotel 

Tullamore 


Breakfast at the Mill Times 

Hotel, Westport 


Breakfast at the Regency 

Hotel, Dublin 

Return Holyhead to Dublin 

Ferry Crossings 


the hotel after Breakfast and head back to Dublin 

City Centre for free time to explore the city. We 

head to the port for a 4 pm sailing to Holyhead, 

where we continue our journey home. 

New Tour 

for 2010 

6 DAYS 

27TH MAY– 

1ST JUNE 

£390 


INCLUDES: 



Breakfast at the Dooley’s 

Hotel Waterford 


Breakfast at the Bellbridge 

Hotel, Spanish Point 


Breakfast at the Royal Hotel, 

Bray 


with a carefully 

preserved Georgian heritage, with graceful wide 

streets and elegant buildings. We continue on via 

Tullamore to our overnight Dinner, Bed & Breakfast at 

the Royal Hotel Bray on the coast south of Dublin. 

Tuesday 1st: Depart the hotel after Breakfast and 

head to Dublin City Centre for free time to explore 

the city. We head to the port for a 4 pm sailing to 

Holyhead, where we continue our journey home.

New Tour 

for 2010 

Owen’s Monaghan & Northern Ireland 

ike the other counties of Ireland County Monaghan 

Lhas its fair share of hills, although this time of a 

smaller, more undulating appearance, and cultural 

heritage. It was here that one of Ireland’s greatest 

poets Patrick Kavanagh was born, and on a lesser 

artistic scale, the once world featherweight champion, 

boxer Barry McGuigan. County Monaghan also offers 

tranquil countryside perfect for scenic touring with an 

understated charm. We head to the county’s capital 

town Monaghan a town that showcases some notable 

architecture from the 17th century. 


Thursday 12th: Early Departure for Holyhead for 

the ferry to Ireland and on to Monaghan for our 4night 

stay. 

Friday 13th: Today we head east and begin the day 

travelling via the village of Hillsborough, continuing 

to the seaside resort of Newcastle, where the 

Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea. We 

continue along the coast returning via Newry. 

Saturday 14th: Full day tour to Belfast. A village in 

the 17th century, this robust northern metropolis of 

nearly half a million people – a third of Northern 

Ireland’s population. Belfast was the engine-room 

Carlow stands at the confluence 

of the Barrow and Burrin 

rivers. Tradition has it that the 

junction of the two rivers once 

formed four lakes. The name 

‘Carlow’ means Four Lakes. 

While the river remains an 

important focus for the town, 

with a long established Rowing 

Club and annual regatta, other 

influences include an international 

student population, a thriving arts 

and craft community, a long and 

lively tradition of Irish language 

use and culture. 


Sunday 24th: A morning start for our journey to 

Holyhead for the crossing to Dublin from where we 

continue to Carlow. 

Monday 25th: Full day excursion to the city of 

Dublin for a day exploring this city noted for its 

shops, architecture, literature and heritage. Perhaps 

take a city tour to explore this warm and friendly 

capital or relax on St. Stephen’s Green, a beautiful 

park in the heart of the city, and marvel at the many 

Georgian mansions that surround it. 

Tuesday 26th: Full day firstly travelling to Waterford, 

the oldest city in Ireland, founded by the Vikings. 

Despite that Waterford City has a fabulous blend of 

ultra-modern shopping centres, pedestrianised 

that drove the whirring wheels of the industrial 

revolution in Ulster. The development of industries 

like linen, rope-making and shipbuilding doubled the 

size of the town every ten years. Today the city and 

the river front are again being transformed. Much of 

the city centre is now pleasantly pedestrianised, 

where you can sit and listen to the street musicians. 

Sunday 15th: Full day scenic tour to county 

Fermanagh “Lakelands” firstly crossing into Northern 

Ireland travelling via Ballygawley and Clogher to the 

ancient town of Enniskillen. Enniskillen town centre 

is firmly built along the long, narrow Main St, which 

actually changes name six times along its length! 

walkways, and lively traditional pubs. Continue to 

medieval Kilkenny. Designated a heritage town, 

Kilkenny has been the heart of Irish civilisation and 

culture for more than fifteen centuries, and is 

becoming increasingly popular. The cobbled streets 

and medieval buildings sit comfortably alongside the 

many restaurants and pubs. The magnificent Kilkenny 

Castle, overlooking the River Nore, dominates the 

ancient city’s buildings. 

Wednesday 27th: Full day experiencing the scenic 

beauty of the Wicklow Mountains, which have 

attracted visitors for centuries. Travel via Tullow to 

Arklow. A short distance away is Avoca, the setting for 

“Ballykissangel” and home of Ireland’s oldest working 

mill in Ireland, Avoca Hand weavers. Visitors can 

Ireland 

HILL GROVE HOTEL ★★★★ Monaghan 

The elegant 4* Hillgrove Hotel, Leisure & Spa has established 

itself as a vibrant venue for social and business occasions. 

Found amidst the gently rolling hills, little lakes, meandering 

rivers and ever-changing vistas of Monaghan, you are sure to 

enjoy the tranquil and luxurious setting that awaits you in the 

Majestic and Magical Hillgrove Hotel, Leisure & Spa. 

www.hillgrovehotel.com 

ABCDEFH 

REGENCY HOTEL ★★★ Dublin 

The Regency Hotel is located 2 miles north of Dublin City centre. 

The hotel blends architectural charm, the main building dates 

back 200 years, with modern comfort. The on-site luxurious health 

and leisure centre features a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, steamroom, 

and extensive gymnasium and treatment rooms. 

www.regencyhotels.com 

ABCDEFH 

We continue our 

circular tour via 

Butlers Bridge. 

Monday 16th: We leave Monaghan and head 

south to Dublin City, where we will be met by a 

guide to give us a fascinating city tour. We will then 

make our way to our overnight Dinner, Bed & 

Breakfast at the Regency Hotel. 

Tuesday 17th: Depart the hotel after Breakfast and 

head back to Dublin City Centre for free time to 

explore the city. We head to the port for a 4 pm sailing 

to Holyhead, where we continue our journey home. 

Carlow Autumn Colours 

SEVEN OAKS HOTEL, 

Carlow 

The Seven Oaks Hotel is one of 

the foremost hotels in Carlow 

and Ireland, From the moment 

you step into their magnificent 

reception area you will enjoy the 

warmest of Irish welcomes from 

our friendly staff. Conveniently 

located just 3 minutes walk from 

Carlow Town Centre; the Seven 

Oaks Hotel has long enjoyed an 

enviable reputation as one of 

the foremost Hotels in Carlow. 

ABCDEFH 


watch the 

weavers produce 

beautiful tweeds 

6 DAYS 

12TH–17TH 

AUGUST 

£420 


INCLUDES: 


Dublin City Tour 

Belfast City Tour 


Breakfast at the Hillgrove 

Hotel, Monaghan 


Breakfast at the Regency 

Hotel, Dublin 

Return Holyhead to Dublin 

Ferry Crossings 

5 DAYS 

24TH–28TH 

OCTOBER 

£320 


INCLUDES: 


Return Ferry Crossings 

Holyhead-Dublin 

Four Nights Dinner, Bed & 


Excursions as Detailed in 

Itinerary 

before viewing the finished product in the adjoining 

shop. Continue north through the Vales of Avoca and 

Clara, passing the Meeting of the Waters to 

Glendalough, the site of an early Christian Settlement. 

Nestled in the beautiful Valley of Two Lakes, St. Kevin 

founded a monastic complex in the 6th Century and 

which has become a celebrated place of pilgrimage. 

Thursday 28th: We leave our hotel after breakfast 

and travel to Dun Laoghaire for the early afternoon 

crossing to Holyhead and home. 

19

20 

Ireland 

Donegal & The Causeway Coast 

The coastal road from Killybegs leads through the Blue Stack 

Mountains to Dungloe at the heart of the Rosses. The 

Glenveagh National Park is the jewel of County Donegal, where 

the plants and tress of a formal manor meet with the wilder side 

of nature to spectacular effect. Nestling on the banks of Lough 

Erne is Ireland’s oldest pottery, Belleek and on the trip to 

Enniskillen admire the great lakes that dominate the landscape, 

scattered with tiny islands. 


Saturday 19th: We leave during the morning and 

travel to Holyhead for the early afternoon crossing to 

Dublin from where we take the short journey to the 

Regency Hotel. 

Sunday 20th: We travel north from Dublin via Dundalk 

to the shoreline of Carlingford Lough through Kilkeel 

continuing north to the popular seaside resort of 

Newcastle where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down 

to the sea to Belfast a famous city of striking contrasts and 

the superb Stormont Hotel. 

Monday 21st: Leaving Belfast we travel via the mighty 

Giants Causeway fashioned from intense volcanic 

Killarney & The Ring of Kerry 

REGENCY HOTEL ★★★ 

Dublin (Overnight) 

STORMONT HOTEL ★★★★ 

Belfast (Overnight) 

ABBEY HOTEL ★★★ Donegal 

The Abbey Hotel has recently been 

refurbished and overlooks the main 

square of the north-west’s most 

popular town. The Market House 

Restaurant is renowned for excellent 

international cuisine and the East Dun 

bar with its unique two-tier interior 

design offers regular entertainment. 

www.abbeyhoteldonegal.com 

ABCDEF 

ROYAL HOTEL ★★★ Bray 

activity. The more romantic legend tells of the giant 

Finn Mac Cool who laid a path across the sea to his lady 

love in Scotland. A regular shuttle bus escorts visitors 

from the visitor centre down to the shore. We continue 

on to Donegal. 

Tuesday 22nd: Full day excursion through the jewel of 

County Donegal, the Glenveagh National Park. We travel 

to Glenties and pass through the Blue Stack Mountains, 

across the Gweebarra Bridge to Dungloe, continuing 

beneath the Derryveagh Mountains to Dunlewy, 

beautifully situated at the foot of Mount Errigal 

overlooking the lake we complete our journey via 

Ballybofey to Donegal. 

We are pleased to be returning again to the beautiful south-west 

corner of Ireland known as the Kingdom of Kerry. Touring Kerry is a 

constant delight and the coastal peninsular of Dingle and the Ring of 

Kerry offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the world which, 

together with the genuine hospitality of the Irish people, will make an 

unforgettable holiday. Our base is the picturesque resort of Killarney, in 

the heart of Ireland’s scenic south-west peninsular. This pretty town has 

retained its tradition throughout the years, still boasting the jaunting car 

and many old pubs. 


Sunday 12th: Travel to Fishguard for the afternoon 

sailing to Rosslare and then continuing our journey to 

Waterford for overnight dinner, bed and breakfast 

accommodation at Dooley’s Hotel. 

Monday 13th: 9.00am start with a 1hr walk tour of 

Waterford by the legendary ‘Jack’ Burtchaell. Your 

tour will take you through the history of the town in a 

way only Jack can, think, history, stand up comedian 

and amateur dramatics, and you’ll get the picture. 

Free time in Waterford will be given before travelling 

on to Killarney. 

Tuesday 14th: A day at leisure in Killarney 

Wednesday 15th: Full day excursion around the 

Ring of Kerry. Dominated by MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, 

savour 100 miles of spectacular scenery as you travel 

along the narrow coastal road of the Iveragh 

Peninsular. The journey begins at Killorglin, home of 

the world’s oldest market, the famous Puck Fair, 

through Glenbeigh, calling at Kerry Bog Village. 

We continue through the villages of Rossbeigh and 

Kells, with their beautiful golden beaches, Sneem, a 

quaint town with its own village green, and Kenmare 

to Moll’s Gap. 

KILLARNEY TOWERS 

HOTEL, Co. Kerry 

3 nights stay located in the 

very heart of the Killarney, 

the 4 Star Killarney Towers 

is a superbly appointed 

hotel and a firm favourite 

with our clients. The hotel 

has many facilities including 

an excellent leisure centre 

with a large swimming pool. 

You can enjoy first class 

cuisine in the elegant 

restaurant before relaxing in 

the resident’s lounge, or 

savour the atmosphere in 

Killarney’s favourite pub, 

Scruffy’s. 

www.odonoghue-ring-hotels.com 


7 DAYS 


£530 


INCLUDES: 


Return Ferry Crossings 

Holyhead-Dun Laoghaire 

Six Nights Dinner, Bed & 



Itinerary 

Entry into Belleek Pottery 

Wednesday 23rd: A day at leisure in Donegal 

Thursday 24th When departing Donegal we head south 

travelling along the shores of Lough Erne, where nestling 

on the banks of the Lough is Belleek, home of Ireland’s 

oldest pottery where you are able to observe how this 

legendary basket weave china is handcrafted. Cavan to 

admire the great lakes which dominate the County 

Fermanagh landscape scattered with islands and adorned 

with breathtaking forest parks and on to Bray. 

Friday 25th: We leave our hotel and make the short 

journey to Dun Laoghaire for the lunch time HSS sailing 

to Holyhead and home. 

6 DAYS 

12TH–17TH 

SEPTEMBER 

£490 


INCLUDES: 


Ferry Crossings; Outward 

Fishguard to Rosslare – Return 

Dun Laoghaire (Dublin) to 

Holyhead 




Thursday 16th: Leaving Killarney we travel through 

Adare, reputedly Ireland’s prettiest village to the city 

of Limerick, located on the River Shannon and home 

of King John’s Castle, continuing our journey to 

Dublin with a short tour to introduce some of the 

famous sights of a city noted for its architecture, 

literature and heritage. We continue to Bray for 

overnight accommodation at the Ramada Woodland 

Court Hotel. 

Friday 17th: We leave our hotel and travel the short 

distance to Dun Laoghaire for the lunch time HSS 

crossing to Holyhead and home.

Owen’s 

The Trossachs in Scotland is an area of 

outstanding beauty and is sometimes 

known as “Scotland in Miniature” due to its 

Winnock All Inclusive Winter Warmer 

Dunoon – The Scottish Riviera 


Scotland 

Winnock Hotel, Drymen ★★★ 

A warm welcome awaits you at The Winnock hotel Picture 

yourself soaking up the atmosphere of this 18th century Inn 

near Loch Lomond, sitting beside the roaring log fire 

surrounded by beautiful Trossachs countryside with many 

castles, gardens and city attractions within easy reach. All 73 of 

our bedrooms have been designed with your comfort in mind 

and benefit from: Colour Television with Satellite TV, Tea & 

Coffee making facilities, En-suite toilet with bath and/or shower, 

direct dial telephone. 

www.winnockhotel.com 

ABCDF 

diversity in landscape. It has inspired many famous people from Sir Walter Scott to Queen Victoria who 

fell in love with the area and spent many happy times on holiday in the Trossachs. Now forming a major part 

of Scotland’s first National Park including Argyll and Loch Lomond, the area has a plan of sustainable 

development to ensure the balance between providing visitor enjoyment and the environment. 


Monday 8th: We head north over the Scottish 

Borders and on to the Hotel for a cup of tea on 

arrival. There will be pre-dinner welcoming drinks 

and time to relax before your three course dinner, 

followed by a winter scenes slide show. 

Tuesday 9th: After breakfast we travel alongside the 

23 miles of Loch Lomond with its 38 named islands. 

We continue to Inverary, the home of the Duke of 

Argyll. We return to the Winnock for a Three Course 

Dinner, and Entertainment. 

Wednesday 10th: Today we take a full day excursion 

to Edinburgh, one of Scotland’s most beautiful and 

cosmopolitan cities. Edinburgh is one place that really 

has it all. Scotland’s capital and home of the stunning 

Edinburgh Castle; it’s the perfect place for a spring 

city break. You’ll find an amazing mix of galleries and 

museums, restaurants and bars, and all the shopping 

you could wish for. Tonight we have a 3 Course 

Dinner followed by entertainment. 

Thursday 11th: After a full Scottish breakfast we 

take the short trip out to Stirling, Scotland’s newest 

city. Stirling has its own unique place in history and is 

known as the “Gateway to the Highlands”. Straddled 

around the winding River Forth and surrounded by 

mountains and crags, Stirling also boasts the stunning 

Stirling Castle perched on a rocky outcrop 

overlooking the 

city. Its compact 

nature means you 

won’t struggle to 

get around 

visiting the wealth 

of interesting 

We take the ferry across to Dunoon and Cowal in Argyll and experience the unparalleled scenery, 

the historic locations, the friendly people and the exciting activities that will make your visit a 

memorable one. The unspoiled Cowal Peninsula retains a unique Scottish identity that is reflected in 

its towns and villages, its arts and crafts and its various events throughout the year. Dunoon boasts two 

lovely bays, a ruined castle and was the former home of Mary Campbell, sweetheart of Robert Burns. 

Her statue gazes longingly over the Firth of Clyde. 


Monday 5th: We depart for the Scottish Riviera 

travelling north and over the border to Gourock 

where we board the ferry to Dunoon. After settling 

into your room and perhaps a pre dinner drink in 

the relaxing lounge bar area, enjoy a mouthwatering 

dinner followed by entertainment. 

Tuesday 6th: A full day excursion to the pretty 

town of Helensburgh and the bonnie banks of Loch 

Lomond, travelling alongside Loch Eck, up Loch 

Fyne, over the ‘Rest and be Thankful’ then by Loch 

The Esplanade Hotel, Dunoon 

★★★ STB 

Situated on the West Bay 

Promenade, The Esplanade Hotel 

is a family owned and run hotel 

offering excellent service with a 

warm welcome, appetizing meals 

and comfortable well appointed 


www.ehd.co.uk 

ABCDEFG 

Long and Gare Loch until we reach Helensburgh. In 

the afternoon we head over to Loch Lomond where 

a choice of activities await; choose from the Bagpipe 

making factory, Loch Lomond Shores Visitor 

Attraction with fantastic shops and restaurants, or 

take a boat trip on the loch itself, before returning 

to the hotel for dinner and entertainment. 

Wednesday 7th: After breakfast it’s time to explore 

Dunoon, Wednesday is Market Day! And then enjoy a 

half day excursion to the fjord-like Loch Goil with its 

5 DAYS 

8–12 MARCH 

£299 

Single Room Supplement 

(On Request) 

INCLUDES: 


Inclusive Excursions 

4 Nights Dinner, Bed & Full 

Scottish Breakfast 

Tea/Coffee after Dinner 

Pack Lunches 9th/10th/11th 

Complimentary Glass of Wine 

with Dinner 


Porterage 

Unlimited Tea/Coffee 

throughout Stay 

Unlimited House Brand 

Drinks From 7.30pm-10.30pm 

locations in the Old Town – including art galleries and 

museums. Shopping is taken care of by the Thistles 

Centre and the Crawford Arcade. Tonight we have a 

Three Course Dinner followed by entertainment. 

Friday 12th: After breakfast its time to head south 

via Gretna Green over the border and home. 

5 DAYS 

5–9 APRIL 

£259 


INCLUDES: 




Entertainment at Hotel 


Gourock to Dunoon Ferry 

Crossing 

Rothesay Ferry Crossing 

pretty village and spectacular mountains. We return 

to our hotel for dinner and entertainment. 

Thursday 8th: Today we make the short ferry 

crossing from Colintraive to Rothesay, the capital 

of the Isle of Bute. This is a traditionally popular 

seaside resort of great charm and also boasts an 

impressive castle. We return to our hotel for dinner 

and entertainment. 

Friday 9th: Enjoy a freshly cooked hearty Scottish 

breakfast before we depart for home. 

21

22 

Crianlarich Hotel ★★★ 

The Crianlarich Hotel is a 

comfortable and well-appointed 

36 bedroom, 3-star hotel built in 

Victorian times. We prepare 

fabulous, hearty, local food, and 

stock a wide selection of beers, 

carefully selected wines and 

award-winning Single Malt 

Whiskies from traditional 

Scottish distilleries. 

The Crianlarich Hotel is located 

in an area rich in Scottish 

heritage and which has been a 

stronghold of many of the 

country’s most famous clans. 

ABDEFG 

Our new tour is based in Crianlarich, north of Loch Lomond and the mid-way point of Scotland’s 

West Highland Way, the 95 mile route from Scotland’s largest city to her highest mountain. 

Crianlarich is also situated on the increasingly popular Coast to Coast route from Oban to St. Andrews. 


Day 1: We travel over the border into Scotland and 

alongside Loch Lomond to Crianlarich and our hotel. 

Day 2: Today we visit the Cruachan Power Station 

on the shores of Loch Awe – awesome, stunning, 

beautiful..... but journey deep into the secret heart 

of this majestic mountain and you’ll discover one of 

the hidden wonders of the Scottish Highlands. 

An underground world on a spectacular scale – 


Day 1: Relax and enjoy the journey and the 

wonderful scenery as we cross the border 

into Scotland. If time allows a stop en route 

at Gretna Green to visit the Old Forge may 

be made. Arrive at the Menzies Irvine Hotel 

check – in and enjoy afternoon tea. 

Day 2: After breakfast at the hotel – Our 

excursion today is to the picturesque Isle of 

Arran. Travel to the port of Ardrossan to 

board the ferry service across to Brodick 

(approx 55 mins). Arran is one of the most 

beautiful islands in Europe and is Scotland’s 

most southerly and accessible. A stop will 

be made at Brodick Castle, the oldest part 

of the castle dates back to the 13th Century. 

The castle has a long and interesting history, 

with many antiques, photographs and a fine 

Scotland 

Scottish Highlands 

New Tour 

for 2010 

a hollow mountain and a place like no other. A coach 

will transport you deep into the heart of the 

mountain, along a massive tunnel cut through solid 

rock. We continue to Fort William and return to our 

hotel via Glen Coe. 

Day 3: A scenic tour today as we travel to Killin and 

alongside Loch Tay to Aberfeldy. Continuing to 

Pitlochry, which has lovely Victorian architecture and 

returning via Crieff and Loch Earn. 

Ayrshire Coast & The Isle of Arran 

New Tour 

for 2010 

This beautiful county on the west 

coast of Scotland is famed for 

golf courses, castles and its links 

with Scotland’s greatest literary 

figure: Robert Burns. The poet was 

born in the village of Alloway, and 

the cottage where he was born sits 

in the Burn’s National Heritage 

Park. The National Trust for 

Scotland’s most popular attraction, 

Culzean Castle, is a beautiful Robert 

Adam design, with a commanding 

position, overlooking the Firth of 

Clyde. Further north, at Largs, is the 

Vikingar! award-winning attraction. 

collection of silverware and porcelain. 

Continuing on from the castle to the visitor 

centre which includes the Arran Brewery 

shop. 

Day 3: We leave after breakfast for the 

short journey to Ayr, this busy town with its 

long sandy beach has been a popular 

seaside resort since Victorian times. 

Continuing to Culzean Castle only a short 

drive away. The Castle was built in stages 

between 1777 and 1792 and is pronounced 

Cul – Lane. The flagship of the National 

Trust for Scotland and reported to be one of 

the most popular properties in their 

portfolio. The Castle and Country Park is 

situated above a cliff on the Ayrshire coast 

overlooking the river Clyde. There are 

extensive gardens with a wide range of 

Menzies Hotel, Irvine ★★★★ 

Located on the outskirts of Irvine, 

Ayrshire, one of Scotland’s most 

beautiful areas, the Menzies Irvine 

Hotel is perfectly placed for 

leisure. The four-star Menzies 

Irvine Hotel offers a superb range 

of facilities. It has comfortable, 

modern bedrooms, a 

contemporary Brasserie 

restaurant, a stylish cocktail bar 

and a spacious lounge. Since 2007 

a major refurbishment programme 

has been undertaken to create a 

new contemporary feel 

throughout. 

ABCDF 

plants and shrubs. 

Day 4: Travel to visit the Museum of 

Ayrshire Country Life and Costume situated 

at Dalgarven Mill Kilwinning. There has 

been a mill on this site since the 14th 

century it was used by the monks of 

Kilwinning Abbey. The Mill has a coffee 

shop area, antiques shop or enjoy a 

riverside walk along the gently flowing River 

Garnock. Final evening enjoy a Scottish 

Themed dinner with set menu, 

entertainment – piper, dancers and Burns 

readings explained and translated. 

Day 5: After breakfast at the hotel – check 

out and commence the journey back home. 


5 DAYS 


£305 

11TH–15TH 

OCTOBER 

£289 

No Single Room 

Supplement 

(Limited Number) 

INCLUDES: 





Porterage 

Entry into Cruachan 

Power Station 

Day 4: Another 

scenic tour 

through the Trossachs. We make our first stop in 

Callander before travelling through the Trossachs to 

Loch Katrine and Aberfoyle. 

Day 5: We leave our hotel after breakfast and return 

home. 

5 DAYS 


£360 

30TH AUG–3RD SEPT 

£360 


29TH NOV–3RD DEC 

Turkey & Tinsel, 

Special Itinerary 

£280 

No Single Room Supplement 


INCLUDES: 


4 Nights Dinner, Bed and Breakfast 

(one themed dinner as described 

below) 

Themed Scottish set dinner 

evening with entertainment as 

described 

Return ferry & day visit to 

Isle of Arran 

Entrance to Arran Heritage 

Museum 

Entrance to Arran Brewery 

Entrance to Brodick Castle 

Entrance to Museum of Ayrshire 

Entrance to Culzean Castle 

Afternoon Tea on arrival at the 

hotel 

Porterage

Owen’s 

Fort William – superb 

scenery, Highland culture, 

clan history, Ben Nevis, 

mountains, lochs and rivers, 

fresh clean air – all year round, 

Highland Games, golf, unspoilt 

beaches, castles, distilleries, 

quiet country roads, interesting 

and original shopping, friendly 

people with a big welcome.... 

they have it all in Fort William. 

Fort William is the largest town 

in the West Highlands of 

Scotland and is an area renowned for magnificent scenery with an 

important history. The region proudly boasts the highest 

mountain in the UK – Ben Nevis, and Loch Morar – the deepest 

loch, with beautiful glens, forests and beaches in between. 


Wednesday 28th: We head north over the Scottish 

Boarders and on to the Hotel in Fort William, with time to 

relax before you sit down to enjoy your evening meal. 

Thursday 29th: Full Day on the Jacobite Stream Train 

described as one of the great railway journeys of the world, 

this 84 mile round trip takes you past a list of impressive 

extremes. It starts near the highest mountain in Britain 

(Ben Nevis), visits Britain’s most westerly mainland railway 

station (Arisaig), then passes close by the deepest 

freshwater loch in Britain (Loch Morar), and the shortest 

river in Britain (River Morar) and finally arrives next to the 

deepest seawater loch in Europe – Loch Nevis. The train 

leaves Fort William at 10:20am and returns to Fort William 


Thursday 2nd: We leave our home area and travel over the 

border into Scotland to Pitlochry and check-in to the Fishers 

Hotel for overnight dinner, bed and breakfast 

accommodation. The hotel lies on the main street in 

Pitlochry close to the shops yet enjoys the tranquillity of two 

acres of award winning private gardens. Guests can sit by the 

fountain or enjoy the putting green. The hotel has elegant 

lounges with log fires and a snooker room as well as an à la 

carte restaurant. 

Friday 3rd: Following a full Scottish breakfast we head 

north over the Cairngorms and via Inverness to Thurso and 

check-in at the Royal Hotel, located in the centre of Thurso, 

one of the most northerly towns in Mainland Scotland. 

Formerly a coaching Inn, this hotel has been upgraded and 

enlarged over the years but still retains its charm from days 

gone by. Situated in the town centre, all amenities, including 

an interesting selection of shops, are within easy walking 

distance. 

Saturday 4th: We spend the next two nights on board 

Northlink Ferries on a Dinner Bed & Breakfast basis in 

ensuite cabins. After breakfast at the hotel, we head to the 

Jacobite Steam Experience – Fort William 

at 4:00pm with an hour and 

a half in Mallaig. The train 

also stops en route to Mallaig at the village of Glenfinnan 

where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745. 

After crossing the world famous 21 arch Glenfinnan 

viaduct, which has been used in the Harry Potter movies, 

and offers wonderful views down Loch Shiel, the train 

stops at the station giving you time to stretch your legs and 

visit the Museum in the station buildings. On a clear 

summer’s day from Arisaig you can see the “Small Isles” of 

Rum, Eigg, Muck, Canna and the southern tip of Skye. 

From there the train passes Morar and the silvery beaches 

used in the films “Highlander” and “Local Hero” The final 

destination is of course Mallaig. Not only an access point to 

Orkney & Shetland Mini Cruise 

Explore the stunning scenery and unique cultures 

of the North of Scotland, Orkney and Shetland. 

There are almost 3,000 Neolothic sites on Orkney 

alone, including Skara Brae, the best preserved 

prehistoric village in Northern Europe, whose 

foundations were laid thousands of years before the 

birth of Christ. The Shetlands also has a long arts 

and crafts tradition. Inspired by the region’s 

dramatic scenery, heritage and culture, local artisans 

produce a unique range of woodcraft, textiles, 

jewellery and leatherwork. 

very north of Scotland and Scrabster, where we board our 

ship MV Hamnavoe at 13.15 for our short crossing to Orkney. 

Enjoy an optional lunch whilst sailing past Britain’s highest 

vertical cliffs – don’t miss the Old Man of Hoy. At 14.45 arrive 

in Stromness on Orkney where you meet your local guide to 

visit World Heritage sites of Skara Brae, Stone of Stenness, 

Ring of Brodgar, Skiall House, Churchill Barriers, Italian 

Chapel plus Scapa Flow. Enjoy an evening visit to one of 

Orkney’s most popular attractions with tea/coffee. At 20.30 

we have our evening meal on the island at a local restaurant 

before boarding our ship again at Kirkwall by 22.30 for the 

overnight sailing to Shetland. 

Sunday 5th: We arrive in Lerwick on the island of Shetland at 

7.30 and have breakfast on board. At around 8.30 we depart 

the ship to meet up with our local guide for a day tour of the 

island, visiting Jarlshof, Scalloway Castle and Museum, and 

seeing Shetland’s famous ponies. We can have lunch at leisure 

in Lerwick before reboarding the ship for a 17.30 departure 

for overnight sailing to Aberdeen. Dinner on board. 

Monday 6th: Arrive Aberdeen and after a hearty full 

Scottish breakfast on board, we then travel south, perhaps 

taking the scenic road via Royal Deeside, past Ballater and 


Scotland 

WEST END HOTEL ★★★ 

Fort William 

The West End Hotel is a well 

appointed, family run hotel with a 

tastefully furnished restaurant, lounge 

bar and delightful patio, from which a 

wide and varied choice of fine, fresh 

Scottish produce can be enjoyed from 

their delicious menus. Unwind at Fort 

William’s West End Hotel, with the 

breathtaking scenery of the Highlands 

at your doorstep. At the West End 

Hotel, overlooking the beautiful Loch 

Linnhe and Ardgour hills, you are 

limited only by your imagination. 

www.westend-hotel.co.uk 

ABCDEFG 

Please note; the single rooms are not 

accessible via the lift. 

the Isle of Skye with the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry but 

also a thriving fishing community. There is plenty to see 

and do while in the village and you have plenty of time 

before the return journey to Fort William. 

Friday 30th: Free day in Fort William 

Saturday 31st: Full Day tour travel along the Lochs of 

Lochy, Oich towards Fort Augustus where we join the 

Southern tip of Loch Ness, we will then travel the entire 

length on a ‘Nessie Hunt’ finally reaching Inverness. 

Our return journey will take us along the edge of the 

Cairngorm Mountains via Aviemore and Newtownmore. 

Sunday 1st: Sadly after breakfast its time to head south 

via Gretna Green over the border and home. 

Braemar, then 

onto the last night 

of our tour in 

Perth. Arrive at the 

Best Western 

Queens Hotel for 

dinner, bed and 

breakfast 


The Queens hotel 

is situated in the 

centre of Perth, 

with excellent 

facilities including 

restaurant, bar and 

superb leisure 

club. Swimming 

5 DAYS 

28TH JULY– 

1ST AUGUST 

£370 


INCLUDES: 




Return Journey on the Fort 

William to Mallaig Jacobite 

Express 

One Nights Entertainment 


6 DAYS 

2ND–7TH 

SEPTEMBER 

£595 


INCLUDES: 


Overnight Dinner, Bed & 

Breakfast in Pitlochry 

Overnight Dinner, bed & 

Breakfast in Thurso 

Two Nights on board 

Northlink Ferry (including 1 

dinner on Orkney & 1 Dinner 

on board and 2 breakfasts) 

Qualified Guided Tours on 

Orkney & Shetland 


Overnight Dinner, Bed & 

Breakfast in Perth 

pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and gym – the only one in 

Perth! 

Tuesday 7th: Sadly we must say farewell to Scotland after 

breakfast and return home. 

Please Note: Overnight bag will be required for ferry 

23

24 

Scotland 

Edinburgh Military Tattoo 

S ince 1950 the Edinburgh Military Tattoo 

has been an annual event held over the 

period of the International Festival on the 

Castle Esplanade. 2010 sees Scotland’s 

colourful military musical spectacular 

celebrate its 61st season, It is now attended 

by over 200,000 people each year from all 

parts of the world. Every year the programme 

includes music of the massed Pipes and 

Drums of the Scottish Regiments together 

with the music of the Massed Bands from 

around the world. Add to this the setting of 

the castle, the delicate play of light, together 

with the excited murmur and applause of 

9,000 spectators at each performance and 

you have the recipe for an evening once 

seen never forgotten. 

Tayside & Edinburgh Tattoo 

BEST WESTERN POND HOTEL, Glasgow 

9th and 25th August departures 

Situated just two miles from Glasgow city centre, the 

Glasgow Pond Hotel is set in Glasgow’s Victorian West End, 

set among Georgian terraces and overlooking a landmark 

pond. Guests can enjoy some great shopping, funky 

boutiques, antique shops, auction rooms and fantastic 

architecture tucked away in mews lanes. A major 

refurbishment of the hotel has taken place. 

www.glasgowpondhotel.co.uk 

ABCDEF 

WESTERWOOD HOTEL, Cumbernauld 

13th August departure 

Recently completed a £14 million refurbishment, the 

Westerwood is a 4 Star hotel and golfing paradise which is set 

within 400 acres of woodland. The 148 luxurious bedrooms 

include luxury bathrooms and satellite flat screen LCD TV. 

ABCDEFH 

INCLUDED EXCURSION: 

We board the coach and travel to Edinburgh where free time will be given 

to explore this exciting city. As you move around the city, you will find 

yourself drawn to a wealth of fascinating streets. With its stunning 

Georgian and Victorian architecture, and winding medieval streets, it’s 

easy to see why Edinburgh has been listed as a World Heritage Site, and 

the setting is captivating. Edinburgh Castle dominates the urban skyline, 

perched atop the crags of an ancient volcano right in the centre of the city. 

We then make our way to the Tattoo Stadium for a spectacular evening’s entertainment and we return to the 

hotel after the performance. Dinner is not included today. 

On this break we combine an interesting few days of history and sightseeing with a chance to visit the 

Military Tattoo in Edinburgh. Our tour is based in Dundee, today, Dundee is promoted as the City of 

Discovery, in honour of Dundee’s history of scientific activities and of the RRS Discovery, Robert Falcon 

Scott’s Antarctic exploration vessel, which was built in Dundee and is now berthed in the city harbour 


Tuesday 17th: We travel via the motorways and 

cross the border into Scotland and to our hotel for 

four nights accommodation at the Hilton Hotel. 

Wednesday 18th: Today we leave our hotel during 

the morning and travel to Edinburgh, where there will 

be time to soak up the atmosphere of the annual 

festival before taking our seats at the tattoo for a 

spectacular evening’s entertainment. We return to our 

HILTON DUNDEE HOTEL, Dundee ★★★★ 

Set on the banks of the River Tay in Dundee’s city 

centre, and located just 10 minutes from Dundee 

Airport, the Hilton Dundee hotel is well placed 

for exploring Dundee attractions such as 

Discovery Point or enjoy shopping at the 

Overgate Retail Centre. All Hilton Guest Rooms at 

the Hilton Dundee hotel offer flat screen TVs and 

on-demand movies. Relax in the swimming pool 

or sauna at the refurbished LivingWell Health 

Club by Precor, maintain your fitness regime in 

the gym or attend an aerobic class. Savour freshly 

sourced, local and international cuisine in the 

Riverfront Bar and Grill or unwind with a drink 

from the extensive wine list. 

ABDEFH 

hotel after the performance. Please note that evening 

meal is not included today. 

Thursday 19th: We depart our hotel after breakfast 

for a scenic drive to Blairgowrie, which lies on the 

River Ericht. Continuing to Pitlochry, a quite delightful 

Victorian town nestling in the Perthshire Highlands, 

amidst some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe. 

Famous for its Festival Theatre, salmon ladder and 

woollen shops. 


3 DAYS 

9TH–11TH AUGUST 

£195 

9.00pm Tattoo Performance 

13TH–15TH 

AUGUST 

£230 


25TH–27TH 

AUGUST 

£195 



INCLUDES: 


One Night Dinner, Bed & 

Breakfast 

One Night Bed & Breakfast 

Entrance to Edinburgh Tattoo 

5 DAYS 

17TH–21ST 

AUGUST 

£359 


INCLUDES: 


Three Nights Dinner, Bed & 


One Night Bed & Breakfast 

Accommodation 


Entrance to Edinburgh 

Military Tattoo 

Friday 20th: A half day tour to Perth, once the 

capital of Scotland, whose ancient buildings stand 

proud. Perth stands on the finest salmon fishing rivers 

in the country, the River Tay. 

Saturday 21st: We bid farewell to Scotland after 

breakfast and head for home stopping in Gretna 

Green en-route.

Owen’s 

Cardiff – Castle, Gardens, Whisky & History 

Cardiff offers immense variety with the personal touch. The capital 

has a diversity of places and interests just waiting for its visitors to 

enjoy. With easy access and a compact city centre, that takes you from 

the Roman to the Cardiff Bay rejuvenation, there is a vast selection of 

places to see and things to do. We combine our visit to this vibrant city 

with the beauty of two of Wales’ finest gardens and the fascinating openair 

National History Museum. 


Day 1: Morning departure heading south over the Brecon 

Beacons with a lunch stop en-route, before arriving at the 

Penderyn Distillery. Wales’ first and only whisky distillery. They 

have been legally distilling whisky here for over 100 years and 

opened its doors to the public for the first time ever in 2008, 

after being officially opened by Prince Charles. You will be taken 

on a journey through the distillery’s 100 year history, where you 

will observe the special production of one of the world’s finest 

single malt whiskies in one of the smallest distilleries in the 

world. Finish off in Penderyn’s impressive tasting room, where 

you will experience two complementary glasses of whisky from 

their vast range of spirits. We then continue on to Cardiff. 

Day 2: Free day in Cardiff 

Day 3: Day Tour beginning with Dyffryn Gardens, 

Distinguished by the British Tourism association as one of the 

best 100 gardens in the U.K. The gardens 

were designed and built in 1908 by the 

acclaimed architect Thomas Mawson. 

This afternoon we continue our journey 

onto St. Fagan’s. A walk around Wales – 

from Celtic times to the present day. St. Fagan’s is one of 

Europe’s leading open–air museums and Wales’s most popular 

heritage attraction. Over forty original buildings from different 

historical periods have been re-erected in the 100-acre parkland, 

among them houses, a farm, a school, a chapel and a splendid 

Workmen’s Institute. Traditional crafts and activities bring St. 

Fagan’s alive, in workshops where craftsmen still demonstrate 

their traditional skills. See how people in Wales have lived, 

worked and spent their leisure time. 

Day 4: This morning we begin our Cardiff Castle- Experience 

Viewed by many as Wales’ premier historical landmark, today 

PARC HOTEL Cardiff 

★★★★ 

A grand Victorian building, 

The Parc Hotel is a landmark 

in the Welsh capital. Located 

in the centre of the city. All of 

the 140 bedrooms have been 

newly refurbished and created 

to the highest specifications, 

from soft furnishings to LCD 

Free View TVs, power showers 

and air-conditioning. With 

more contemporary colours, 

complemented by bold, 

vibrant fabrics, help make the 

bedrooms feel more informal, 

spacious and welcoming. 

Facilities also include: Wi-Fi 

and Hairdryer. 

www.thistle.com 

ABCDEF 


Exclusive Royal Scotland 

On this break we combine an interesting few days of history and sightseeing with visits to Scone Palace, 

Glamis Castle and Blair Castle. Our tour is based in Dundee, the area offers dramatic and breath 

taking scenery from rugged coastlines to highland glens, and a unique blend of ancient Scottish history, 

romantic castles, formal gardens, top quality visitor attractions, and modern 21st century shopping. 


Sunday 19th: We leave during the morning and travel 

over the border into Scotland and Dundee 

Monday 20th: To Glamis Castle. The Queen Mothers 

childhood home and birthplace of the late Princess 

Margaret has been lovingly cared for since 1372 and is 

now the home of the Earls of Strathmore and King 

Horne. Here you will enter the Castle through the front 

door and be greeted by the Duty Manager, who will take 

you into the kitchens for tea and shortbread. Following 

this your guide will lead you round the castle, where you 

are permitted to take photos. 

Tuesday 21st: Full day excursion firstly to Perth. Perth’s 

city centre is compact with two large and open public 

New Tour 

for 2010 

Scotland/Wales 

HILTON DUNDEE HOTEL, Dundee ★★★★ 

Set on the banks of the River Tay in Dundee’s city centre, 

and located just 10 minutes from Dundee Airport, the 

Hilton Dundee hotel is well placed for exploring Dundee 

attractions such as Discovery Point and Glamis Castle. 

Enjoy shopping at the Overgate Retail Centre. 

All Hilton Guest Rooms at the Hilton Dundee hotel offer 

flat screen TVs and on-demand movies. Keep in touch 

with high-speed internet access. Relax in the swimming 

pool or sauna at the refurbished LivingWell Health Club 

by Precor, maintain your fitness regime in the gym or 

attend an aerobic class. 

ABCDEFH 

parks – the North and South Inches on each flank and the 

mighty River Tay along side. Much of Perth’s High Street is 

a traffic free precinct with a wide variety of shops large 

and small. Many of the streets around the centre are 

comprised of elegant Georgian terraced houses. We then 

continue to Scone Palace. Built of red sandstone, being a 

classic example of the late Georgian Gothic Style, the 

castle is a place of power and mystery, being once the 

crowning place of Scottish Kings, such as Robert the 

Bruce. You will be taken on a private tour by the head 

guide inside you will sample a fine collection of furniture, 

ceramics, and clocks, with exclusive access to the old 

kitchen where you will be treated to a complimentary tea 

& scone. 

Wednesday 

22nd: This 

morning we visit 

Blair Castle the 

6 DAYS 

19TH–24TH 

SEPTEMBER 

£445 


INCLUDES: 




Porterage 


Guided tour of Scone Palace 

(With exclusive access) 

Entry into Blair Castle 

Exclusive Guided Tour of 

Glamis Castle (With exclusive 

access) 

ancient seat of the Dukes of earls of Atholl, enjoying one 

of Scotland’s finest settings in the heart of Highland 

Perthshire. 

This afternoon we travel to Pitlochry, in the heart of 

Scotland with real hospitality, clear sparkling air, beautiful 

scenery, rich clan history, plenty of space and lots to see 

and do. 

Thursday 23rd: A free day in Dundee. 

Friday 24th: We leave our hotel after breakfast and 

make our way home. 

4 DAYS 


£269 

2ND–5TH 

SEPTEMBER 

£269 


INCLUDES: 


3 Nights Dinner Bed & 

Breakfast 

Entry to St. Fagans 

Entry to Cardiff Castle 

Entry to Penderyn Distillery 

Porterage 

you will step back in time & experience the historic splendour 

of Cardiff Castle, as you are personally led around on a premium 

Castle tour. The exclusive tour includes a 100 minutes guided 

tour of the Castle’s interiors, followed by an entertaining 

illustrated talk on the history of the Castle. The Castle’s history 

spans over 2000 years, and was transformed in 1860 into a 

gothic fantasy by the work of architect William Burges. Each 

room of the Castle has its own unique character; these include 

Arabian décor, an Italian aura and also the extravagant 

Mediterranean gardens. After lunch we head for home, 

returning via Monmouth. 

25

26 

Tenby 

Tenby’s roots date back to the time of the Norman Conquest. Much of the medieval castle walls, 

built to fortify the town from the Welsh rebellion, have survived intact to the present day. 

Tenby is one of the prettiest resorts in Wales, unspoilt by commercialism and retains its natural 

seaside charm, especially along narrow cobbled streets lined with shops, cafes and restaurants are 

also reminders of this bygone age. Along the sea-front there are seats and shelters at vantage points to 

view the magnificent coastal scenery. The resort is split by a rocky headland into two beach sections, 

the south beach and the north beach with its harbour. 


Day 1: This morning we head south through Wales, 

to our hosts the Cliff Norton Hotel in Tenby for four 

nights dinner bed & breakfast. 

Day 2: Full day excursion travelling along the coast 

to the ancient town of Pembroke. Dominated by its 

magnificent castle, Pembroke is both historical and 

charming with many shops and several fascinating 

museums. We continue to Haverfordwest, an 

attractive town with impressive castle ruins, and then 

on to St. David’s, the smallest cathedral city in Britain 

Llandudno 

Wales 


Day 1: We leave during the morning and travel to Llandudno arriving early 

afternoon. 

Day 2: A day at leisure in Llandudno to enjoy the many sights. 

Day 3: A superb narrow gauge trip for you. We travel to Caernarfon and board the 

Welsh Highland Line, from its starting point adjacent to the magnificent castle. 

A whole tour, through unbelievable scenery, takes us to the village of Rhyd Ddu 

and from there we continue for our midday break in nearby Beddgelert. 

Returning by coach to Caernarfon, we follow the coast road to Llandudno. 

Day 4: A half day tour to nearby Conwy. Conwy is the classic walled town. 

CLIFF NORTON HOTEL, Tenby 

The Cliff Norton Hotel is a Grade II 

listed Victorian building, 

commanding wonderful coastal 

views, whilst occupying an excellent 

town centre position. The hotel has 

an entertainment programme and 

also has a lift to the second floor. 

www.thecliffenortonhotel.com 

ABDEFG 

and a shrine to Wales’ patron saint. 

Day 3: Free Day in Tenby. 

Day 4: Full day excursion along the coast travelling 

via Pendine with its 7 miles of golden sands for a short 

stop at the attractive Laugharne, the home of Dylan 

Thomas, the poet. We continue our journey to 

Carmarthen. Once Wales’ largest town before the 

Industrial Revolution, Welsh folk tales citing it as the 

birthplace of King Arthur’s mentor, the magician 

Merlin, the town’s Welsh name – Caerfyrddin – even 

translates as “Merlin’s Fort. Steeped in tradition, the 

KENSINGTON HOTEL, Central 

Promenade, Llandudno 

The Kensington Hotel in 

Llandudno, a comfortable, well 

appointed, family run hotel is 

situated on the main promenade 

overlooking the North Shore seafront 

at Llandudno. The hotel is 

centrally positioned in the town. 

You can relax in one of the large 

comfortable residential lounges 

with views across the sea. 

ABDE 

North Wales’s largest resort has a huge range of accommodation to suit every taste. This elegant town 

was built primarily in the late Victorian and Edwardian period. It is situated on a peninsular and the 

long sweep of the main beach, with its crescents of hotels and Victorian pier contrasts sharply with the 

West Shore. There are many attractions, good shops including major chain stores, specialist shops, 

antiques and crafts, theatres, cinemas, museums, wine bars and pubs. 


tradition Welsh 

language is still 

spoken in most of the region. Visitors delight in the 

ruins of the town’s Norman castle, which once 

dominated the area, other fine examples of 

architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries lie at 

the town’s centre below the castle, and examples of 

Georgian architecture can be found in Lammas St. in 

the form of coach inns and small local shops. 

Day 5: Sadly it’s time to leave the resort of Tenby and 

begin our journey homeward. 

Its circuit of walls, over three quarters of a 

mile long and guarded by no less than 22 

towers, is one of the finest in the World. 

Day 5: On our return journey home we 

travel to the Isle of Anglesey with a stop at 

Beaumaris. This handsome little resort and 

sailing centre is, some say, the finest of North 

Wales’s fortresses, built by English King 

Edward 1. Also included is a visit to Pringle Woollen Mill at 


Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch. 

5 DAYS 

23RD–27TH APRIL 

£290 

17TH–21ST 

OCTOBER 

£290 


Supplement 


INCLUDES: 





5 DAYS 


£275 

30TH AUG– 

3RD SEPT 

£275 

6TH–10TH 

DECEMBER 

(TURKEY & TINSEL – 

SPECIAL ITINERARY) 

£275 



INCLUDES: 


All Rooms with Private 

facilities 



Excursions as Detailed

Owen’s 


Wednesday 21st: We travel via Skipton, a major 

commercial and shopping centre, with its colourful 

market being held 4 days a week and a variety of 

interesting pubs and eating places. Continuing over Ilkley 

Moor en route to Oulton and our hotel. 


England 

Harrogate Flower Show 

Oulton Hall Hotel, Oulton, Nr. Leeds ★★★★★ 

The historic Oulton Hall is Yorkshire’s only 5-star 

luxury hotel. It offers a warm Yorkshire welcome and 

rooms with custom-made beds and Egyptian-cotton 

bed linen. This 18th century mansion has award 

winning cuisine, a fabulous spa and a 27-hole golf 

complex in its fabulous grounds. 

ABCDEF 

The Harrogate Spring Flower Show is the first major independent horticultural show of the season. Flower Halls 1 & 2 

are home to over 100 of the country’s leading horticultural nurseries, all exhibiting and competing for Best in Show and the 

NEHS Trophy. All the nurserymen are experts in their field and are happy to offer specialist advice. Over twenty nurseries take 

up the challenge of competing in the Innovative Display category. The spectacular 18000 sq ft ruche-lined marquee provides a 

wonderful backdrop for flower arrangers and florists from all over the UK to show off their skills. 


Friday 28th: On our journey to our hotel we will visit 

Wisley Gardens in Surrey. Wisley is Britain’s best loved 

garden with 240 acres offering a fascinating blend of 

practical and innovative design and cultivation 

techniques. 

We leave Wisley late afternoon to drive to our hotel. 

Thursday 22nd: The highlight of our break as we take 

the short journey into Harrogate for the Flower Show. 

The town is a popular tourist destination; its spa waters, 

RHS Harlow Carr gardens and Betty’s tearooms are world 

famous visitor attractions. 

Chelsea Flower Show 

Crowne Plaza Hotel, Heathrow ★★★★ 

The 4 star Crowne Plaza Hotel has spacious 

bedrooms with air conditioning and high 

speed internet. The Leisure Club Spirit 

boasts Heathrow’s largest indoor pool, 

whirlpool, sauna and fully equipped gym 

and treatment rooms. It even has a 9 hole 

golf course. 

ABCDEF 

Chelsea Flower Show is the worlds most popular and renowned flower show. The best in gardening and horticulture is 

brought together in one place for one week in May. You can marvel at dozens of gardens – from the large Show Gardens, to 

the Courtyard, Chic and City gardens. 

New Tour 

for 2010 


Saturday 24th: We leave during the morning and travel 

to Stratford-upon-Avon for time to take lunch and see the 

many sights. We then continue to our hotel for dinner, 

bed and breakfast accommodation. 

Sunday 25th: The highlight of our weekend as we travel 

Saturday 29th: We enjoy a full day at Chelsea Flower 

Show, the premier event of the RHS calendar and 

probably the world’s most famous horticultural event. 

For more than 80 years this celebrated show has 

blossomed in the centre of London and 2010 promises 

to be another breathtaking week of gardening. 

Althorp House Experience 

Marriott Hotel, Northampton ★★★★ 

A 4-star Northampton hotel featuring 120 luxurious guest rooms with ensuite 

baths. The hotel has undergone a £2 Million renovation to the 

lobby, restaurant, conference rooms, bar and all the bedrooms. 

ABCDF 

A weekend short break which includes exclusive access to Althorp 

House, Althorp has been the stately home of the Spencer family for 

nearly 500 years and is the resting place of Diana, Princess of Wales. 

There are 19 rooms in the house open to the public displaying a fine 

collection of furniture, pictures and ceramics. Althorp was home to 

Princess Diana before she joined the Royal family and following her 

death in 1997 the family created an extensive museum exhibition as 

a memorial to reflect on her life and work. There are six rooms 

displaying a range of Lady Diana’s personal artefacts including the 

famous bridal gown, childhood letters, school reports, dresses and 

details of her charity work. 

the short distance to Althorp House & Gardens. After 

touring at your leisure, you will be taken to a room based 

on the Buckingham Palace state dining rooms which is 

usually closed to the public, where you can uniquely 

enjoy afternoon tea and sandwiches. 

4 DAYS 

21–24 APRIL 

£250 


INCLUDES: 





Entry to Harrogate Flower Show 

Friday 23rd: We travel into York for free time to see the 

many sights. 

Saturday 24th: Morning free in Harrogate before 

returning home after lunch. 

2 DAYS 

28–29 MAY 

£160 


INCLUDES: 


1 Night Dinner, Bed & 

Continental Breakfast 

Accommodation 

Entry into Wisley Gardens 

Entry to Chelsea Flower Show 

3 DAYS 

24–26 JULY 

£180 


INCLUDES: 


Two Nights Dinner, Bed & 


Entry into Althorp House & 

Gardens 

Afternoon Tea & Sandwiches at 

Althorp House 

Sunday 26th: We depart after breakfast and return 

home through the Cotswolds via Moreton-in-Marsh, 

Broadway and Evesham. 

27

28 

Enjoy a short break in our very own capital city. Whether it’s shopping, sightseeing, a 

visit to the theatre or your favourite museum or a ride on the London Eye, you’ll find 

all this and much, much more in London. Why not make your visit special with a meal at 

a top restaurant or perhaps take afternoon tea at the Ritz. Whatever time of year, London 

is one of the World’s most exciting cities. 

Five Star London 

England 

London City Breaks 

INCLUDED EXCURSION: 

On our return journey home we take a short tour 

of London. After which we will set you down near 

to Marble Arch for free time for last minute 

shopping. From the boutiques of Bond Street to 

the teeming Oxford Street fashion stores and 

vibrant street markets, there is something to suit 

even the most discerning of shoppers. Pick up the 

perfect gift from a luxury department store like 

Fortnum & Mason or while away some time in the 

world famous halls of Harrods. 

Enjoy a short break in our very own capital city. 

Whether it’s shopping, sightseeing, a visit to the 

theatre or your favourite museum or a ride on the 

London Eye, you’ll find all this and much, much 

more in London. Why not make your visit special 

with a meal at a top restaurant or perhaps take 

afternoon tea at the Ritz. Whatever time of year, 

London is one of the World’s most exciting cities. 


Sunday 14th: We depart on Sunday morning arriving in 

The London Showboat 


Saturday 20th: We leave during the morning and travel 

directly to London for check-in at the Park Plaza 

3 DAYS 

5TH–7TH FEBRUARY 

£175 

Holiday Inn, Regents Park, London 

The Holiday Inn’s Regents Park Hotel is a 

contemporary and stylish hotel in Central 

London. This West End hotel is within walking 

distance from London’s Theatres, Oxford 

Street, Regents Park, London Zoo and Madame 

Tussauds. The London Eye, Buckingham 

Palace, the War Museum and Hyde Park are 

also within easy reach 

N.B. This Hotel will be used on our February, 

April and August tours. 

Waldorf Hotel Aldwych Central London ★★★★★ 

Explore London’s West End from The Waldorf Hilton hotel in Theatreland, 

5 minutes’ walk from fantastic shopping in Covent Garden. Dine in style at 

Homage Grand Salon or indulge in pastries at the patisserie. De-stress at 

the gym, go for a dip in the 14-metre heated indoor pool. Work out in the 

LA Fitness club on cardiovascular equipment and weights, then unwind in 

the sauna and steam room. Treat yourself to a beauty treatment or book in 

for a relaxing massage. The rooms also offer Air Conditioning, Hairdryer, 

Iron, Ironing Board, TV-Cable, Pay per & Standard Network 

www.Hilton.co.uk/Waldorf 

ABCDEFGH 

London during the afternoon. After check-in at the Five 

Star Hilton Waldorf Hotel, it time for Afternoon Tea in the 

restaurant. The remainder of the afternoon and evening 

are free to enjoy our exciting capital city. We would be 

pleased to book tickets for the show of your choice, 

please enquire for details. 

Monday 15th: After breakfast you are invited to 

experience a fascinating tour of the illustrious history and 

Park Plaza Riverbank Hotel ★★★★ 

Situated on the south side of the River Thames, the Park Plaza 

Riverbank Hotel offers guests quality accommodation and an ideal 

location. Westminster and Vauxhall Underground stations are just a 

short distance away, and buses stop outside the hotel. Many rooms 

offer views over Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and the Thames. 

ABCDEF 

The sights of London at night have to be seen to be believed and the London Showboat is the perfect way to do it. Imagine 

your favourite songs from the world’s most famous musicals as the perfect accompaniment to the sights of London. Against 

the night sky the Houses of Parliament, London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf 

and the O2 reveal their splendour, along with many more London landmarks as history unfolds before your eyes. Afterwards 

you’ll be dancing all the way back to Westminster to the strains of popular dance music from the last four decades. 

Riverbank Hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is free 

before we board the London Showboat for a three and a 

half hour river cruise incorporating a Welcome drink, 4 

course dinner, half a bottle of wine, Cabaret and dancing 


3 DAYS 

16TH – 18TH APRIL 

£175 

4 DAYS 

20TH – 23RD AUGUST 

£235 

3 DAYS 

19TH – 21ST NOVEMBER 

£185 

Hotel yet to be confirmed 

Single Room Supplement – On Request 

INCLUDES: 


Bed & English Breakfast Accommodation 

Tour of London 

Theatre Booking Service 

2 DAYS 

14–15 MARCH 

£135 


INCLUDES: 


Overnight Bed and English 

Breakfast and Afternoon Tea at 

the Waldorf Hotel 

opulent luxury of the last of this iconic hotel. The rest of 

the day is at leisure. You may care to take a guided tour of 

the city on one of the many coaches available or perhaps 

make your own way using the underground system, but 

with such places to visit as Madam Tussaud’s, St. Paul’s 

Cathedral, Tower of London or Harrods – it will certainly be 

a busy day. The coach will be departing from the Waldorf 

Hotel at 3pm and we aim to arrive home early evening. 

2 DAYS 

20–21 MARCH 

£175 


INCLUDES: 

All travel by Executive Coach 

Overnight Accommodation 

with Buffet Breakfast 

London Showboat River Cruise 

Sunday 21st: After a leisurely breakfast the morning is 

free to explore the many sights or perhaps do some 

shopping before we return home.

Owen’s 


Day 1: Depart in the morning heading south to London 

and the BBC television Centre for a Guided Tour of the 

most famous television centre in the world, giving you a 

fascinating insight into the world of BBC television, where 

favourite shows such as: Strictly Come Dancing, Blue Peter 

& Friday Night with Jonathan Ross are filmed. As the centre 

is a working studio, no two days are ever the same, but you 

can expect to get a taste of what goes on in a working 

television building. Tour highlights of this award winning 

tour include: a visit to the sets of your most cherished 

shows; the dressing room and prop department; the 

interactive studios, and a visit to BBC News. 

E njoy a “value for money” short break in our exciting 

capital city, London. Home of the best live theatre in the 

world! We have selected some of the top West End shows 

for your enjoyment and all our breaks include one night 

dinner, bed and breakfast accommodation. Alternatively, 

you may prefer to spend your time in London shopping or 

sightseeing, the choice is yours! 

Additional theatre breaks will be added throughout the year, 

please enquire for details. 

LOVE NEVER DIES 

Love Never Dies will be the first time a musical sequel is 

staged in the West End. The plot takes place on Coney 

Island in 1906, approximately a decade after the events 

of The Phantom of the Opera. The Phantom has 

travelled to Coney Island with Madame Giry and her 

daughter Meg. Beginning his new life in America as a 

freakshow attraction, he has worked his way up to a 

position of power and is now the successful architect of 

a number of Coney Island attractions. Despite his 

OLIVER 

Cameron Mackintosh presents his triumphant 

staging of Lionel Bart’s masterpiece Oliver! at 

the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, which was last 

seen at the Palladium in 1994. Oliver! is one of 

the most beloved British musicals, vividly 

bringing to life Dickens’ timeless characters 

with its ever-popular story of the boy who 

asked for more. Award-winning actor and 

comedian Omid Djalili stars as Fagin, along 

MAMMA MIA! 

A mother. A daughter. 3 possible 

dads. And a trip down the aisle 

you’ll never forget! 

Over 40 million people all around the world have fallen 

in love with the characters, the story and the music 

that make MAMMA MIA! the ultimate feel-good show! 

Writer Catherine Johnson’s sunny, funny tale unfolds 

on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, 

newfound wealth and success 

he still longs for Christine and 

manages to arrange for her to 

come and sing at one of his 

latest attractions. Christine 

arrives at Coney Island along 

with Raoul and their son 

Gustave, unknowingly 

returning to the man she 

feared most. 

a daughter’s quest to discover the 

identity of her father brings 3 men 

from her mother’s past back to the 

island they last visited 20 years ago. 

The story-telling magic of ABBA’s 

timeless songs propels this 

enchanting tale of love, laughter 

and friendship, and every night 

everyone’s having the time of 

their lives! 

London – Theatre or Shopping 

with Jodie Prenger as Nancy. 

The sensational score is full of 

Lionel Bart’s irresistible songs 

including Food Glorious Food, 

Consider Yourself, You’ve Got 

to Pick-a-Pocket or Two, I’d Do 

Anything, Oom Pah Pah, As 

Long As He Needs Me and 

many more. 


England 

Crowne Plaza Hotel, Ealing London ★★★★ 

The hotel has five floors with 131 guest rooms, of which all were 

refurbished during 2008. Facilities include tea/coffee making, trousers press, 

hair dryer, direct dial telephone, satellite TV, in house movies, wireless 

Internet connection, triple glazed windows and 24-hour room service. 

West 5 Brasserie and Bar on the lower ground floor are the ideal 

destinations for unwinding, drinking and dining. For those seeking fitness 

revive Health Club with steam room is complimentary to all hotel guests. 

www.crowneplaza.com 

ABCDEF 

Day 2: After Breakfast we depart for Westfield London – 

your Ultimate Shopping Experience. Westfield has more 

than 265 shops from over 15 countries, and 16 brands 

that have never been seen in the UK before, we believe 

you will be spoilt for choice. Westfield is an architecturally 

stunning showcase. Look out for quirky displays and 

fantastical architecture where you will discover staircases 

that appear to float…or walk on a floor made from 

recycled trainers. Westfield is the largest in-town 

shopping and leisure destination in Europe. It boasts new 

generation retailing with new shop fits, new ranges & new 

services, when you visit the Village section you will come 

BBC Studio & 

London Shopping Experience 

across a stylish, 

salon-style space, 

home to 40 of the 

most desirable 

fashion labels in 

the world. And you 

will also have over 

Your tour cost includes matinee tickets to selected show (if applicable) 

2 DAYS 

10–11 APRIL 

£115 


INCLUDES: 



1 Night 3 Course Dinner, Bed 

& Breakfast 

Guided Tour of BBC 

Television Centre 

50 restaurants & cafes to choose between, including 25 

styles and nationalities of cooking. 6 new to the UK and of 

these, 5 are first ever seen brands. 

Crowne Plaza, Ealing 

The Crowne Plaza is located in a suburban area 

and was renovated in 2008. The West 5 

Brasserie & Bar at Crowne Plaza London Ealing 

offers tastefully designed surroundings, a 

mouth watering menu, attentive yet 

unassuming service but more importantly an 

atmosphere you need to be part of! 

ABCDEF 

2 DAYS 


THEATRE £179 

SHOPPING £100 


2 DAYS 


THEATRE £175 



2 DAYS 

18TH–19TH SEPT 

THEATRE £175 



29

30 

Photo © Kit Houghton 

England 

Luxurious Oxford City Break 

Oxford the City of Dreaming Spires, is famous the world over for its University and place in history. For over 800 years, 

it has been a home to royalty and scholars, the city is a bustling cosmopolitan town. With its mix of ancient and modern, 

there is plenty for the tourist to do. Whether it’s visiting one of the many historic buildings, colleges or museums or if 

it’s a huge variety of shops that is your interest, Oxford has it all. 


Saturday 27th: Our outward journey takes us via 

Worcester, Evesham, Morton-in-Marsh, Stow-on-the-Wold 

Bourton-on-the-Water to Oxford to your ‘Luxury Home’ 

Legoland or Windsor Castle 

New Tour 

for 2010 

Windsor Castle Royal Tattoo 

Oxford Belfry, Milton Common Oxfordshire ★★★★ 

Located just south of Oxford, near the picturesque market town of Thame. 

The original building dates to the 19th century and to call it ‘charming’ is 

an understatement. The newer hotel buildings have been designed around 

two courtyards with a fabulous conservatory and terraces adding to the 

feel of light and space. As well as a superb leisure centre, we have two 

tennis courts and a croquet lawn. You can also reward your efforts with a 

well deserved visit to our spa to chill out in the steam room and indulge 

in some pampering at the experienced hands of our holistic therapists. 

www.qhotels.co.uk/hotels/the-oxford-belfry 

ABCDEFH 

for the night where you will have time to relax and 

explore the luxury facilities on offer before Dinner. 

Sunday 28th: After a Full English Breakfast we head off 

for a full day in Oxford just a short journey down the 

road. Oxford thrums like the tail of an enthusiastic puppy 

Windsor Castle is the oldest (over 1000 years old!) and largest occupied castle in the world. The castle is the Official 

Residence of Her Majesty The Queen, having been home of the British Monarchy for the past 700 years. 

The Castle covers an area of about 5 hectares and contains magnificent State Apartments furnished with treasures from the 

Royal Collection, St. George’s Chapel (the burial place of 10 monarchs), and Queen Mary’s Dolls House, a masterpiece in 

miniature. Featuring nearly 55 million LEGO bricks, combined with over 50 amazing interactive rides, Legoland is a truly 

unique day out, with something for people of all ages. The 150 acre, beautifully landscaped park boasts seven magnificent 

new attractions including the £7 million, water themed Land of the Vikings, plus a top line of live shows. 


Day 1: We leave in the morning for Oxford where we 

enjoy an extended lunch break before continuing to 

our hotel near Windsor. 

Day 2: Take your pick! Visit the magnificent Windsor 

Castle and its many attractions or spend an action 

packed day at Legoland Theme Park. 

Day 3: Our return journey home takes us via the 

Park Inn, Heathrow ★★★★ 

Park Inn Heathrow is one of Heathrow’s largest hotels with 880 

bedrooms. The hotel features the ‘Le Bar’, which is open night 

and day and serves light meals as well as drinks and has two 

restaurants. The Original Carvery is a 300-seat restaurant which 

cooks eggs and pancakes to order. 

ABDEFH 

The first Windsor Castle Royal Tattoo took place in 2008 and welcomed more than 18,000 people into the private grounds of 

Windsor Castle. It offered a celebration through music, words and action of the Army’s contribution and commitment to the 

Nation’s Defence, International Security and Stability. Narrated from start to finish, with re-enactments and displays, visitors saw 

stories unfold of Army life and its unselfish contribution to society. The Tattoo runs alongside The Royal 

Windsor Horse Show and visitors to it can gain access to the show from 3pm each day, taking the chance to 

catch some top class show jumping, dressage and equestrian displays before the evening Tattoo starts. 


Saturday 15th: We travel directly to the Park Inn, 

Heathrow for check in before making the short journey 

into Windsor. N.B. The coach park is located approx. 10 

minutes walk from the show. Drop-offs at the show 

entrance are not permitted. 

Holiday Inn, Maidenhead 

The Holiday Inn Maidenhead-Windsor combines an excellent 

range of facilities for both business and leisure travellers, 

including WiFi, High Speed Internet Access. 197 fully air 

conditioned bedrooms, restaurant, bar, lounge and Spirit Health 

Club. 

ABCDEFH 

Sunday 16th: A leisurely breakfast before we drive to 

Windsor for more free time. Perhaps take a river cruise. 

We leave Windsor early afternoon and return home. 


2 DAYS 


£89 


INCLUDES: 

All Travel By Executive Coach 

Excursion as Detailed 

1 Night Dinner, Bed & 

Breakfast 

Porterage 

dog. On your walkies, you’ll find stunning colleges, 

museums, theatres, parks; the full cultural works, as well 

as shops, bars and restaurants. We will head for home at 

approximately 4pm via the motorways. 

3 DAYS 

8TH–10TH APRIL 

29TH-31ST JULY 

£165 

Child 12-16 years 

£150 

Child under 12 

£130 


INCLUDES: 




Entrance to Windsor Castle or 

Legoland, Windsor 

beautiful 


Cotswolds and 

the delightful villages of Bourton-on-the Water, 

Broadway and Stow-on-the-Wold. 

2 DAYS 

15–16 MAY 

£165 


INCLUDES: 


Overnight accommodation 

with Full Cooked Breakfast 

A 2nd Price Ticket for the 

Tattoo (Undercover) 

Photo © Kit Houghton

New Tour 

for 2010 

Cotswolds, is the area of gently rolling hills between 

Stratford-upon-Avon and Bath, and takes in the 

hundreds of small towns and villages in 

Gloucestershire, and the neighbouring counties of 

Warwickshire, Oxfordshire, Worcester and 

Herefordshire. 


Day 1: Our outward journey takes us via Ludlow, Hereford & 

Gloucester to the fabulous Cheltenham Chase Hotel, your ‘Luxury 

Home’ for the next 2 nights where you will have time to relax and 

explore the luxury facilities on offer before sitting down to a 

Carvery Dinner. 

Day 2: After a Full English Breakfast you may choose to relax at the 

New Tour 

for 2010 

Owen’s 


Day 1: Morning departure heading East with a stop 

off at Melton Mowbray. Known as the “Rural Capital 

of Food”, Melton Mowbray is perhaps best known 

for its culinary specialties, being the home of the 

eponymous pork pie and one of the homes of 

Stilton cheese. 

Blackpool must surely fare as 

one of the most famous seaside 

resorts in Europe. Very little can 

be said of Blackpool that has not 

been said a thousand times, it 

really is a resort for all ages and 

all seasons, whether you are 8 

or 80, whether it rains or shines, 

there is always something to suit 

your needs. On all three of 

Blackpool’s piers you will find 

star studded shows and if that’s 

not enough there are always star 

names appearing at either the 

Winter Gardens or the famous 

Tower Ballroom. The 

culmination of Blackpool’s long 

season must be, without doubt, the fantastic 

illuminations, with over a million pounds being 

spent to light up the town they must compare 

equally to the famous lights of Las Vegas. 

Oxford & The Cotswolds 

CHELTENHAM CHASE HOTEL ★★★★ 

The Cheltenham Chase offers the definition of 4-star luxury. At the 

Cheltenham Chase Hotel everything has been considered to exceed 

your expectations, beginning with their superb setting – 15 acres of 

cherished gardens, flourishing below the gently undulating Cotswold’s. 

The Cheltenham Chase Hotel’s 122 bedrooms and suites create the 

ambience, with every detail designed for your comfort in mind, fit for a 

princess in fact, with Princess Anne being one of a long list of notable 

guests that includes Andy McDowell and the cast of Harry Potter. Enjoy 

a refreshing swim in The Cheltenham Chase Hotel’s indoor swimming 

pool, or pamper yourself with a choice of relaxing treatments or 

invigorating massages, in Reflections, our Health Club and Spa. 

www.qhotels.co.uk/hotels/the-cheltenham-chase 

ABCDEFH 

Hotel or join the coach for a full day tour travelling via Bourton-onthe-Water, 

Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Norton, to Oxford the 

City of Dreaming Spires, is famous the world over for its University 

and place in history. For over 800 years, it has been a home to 

royalty and scholars, the city is a bustling cosmopolitan town. With 

its mix of ancient and modern, there is plenty for the tourist to do. 

Whether it’s visiting one of the many historic buildings, colleges or 

museums or if it’s shopping that takes your fancy, you can shop till 

Day 2: Today we head for Lincoln, and start with a 

tour of Lincoln Cathedral dominating the skyline, a 

visit to this breathtaking medieval cathedral is a 

must. Until the collapse of its spire in the 16th 

Century, it held the record for the tallest building in 

the world for 200 years. The rest of the day is free to 

explore the beautiful city. 

you drop, Oxford has 

it all. You return to 

the Hotel in plenty of 

time for a Carvery Dinner. 

BELTON WOODS De Vere Hotel ★★★★ nr Grantham Lincolnshire 

This gorgeous lakeside hotel, set in 475 acres of tranquil Lincolnshire countryside, 

and with everything you need for a relaxing, luxurious break. You’ll love the warm 

welcome when you check in and the luxurious suites, the mouth-watering menus 

and the glorious golf courses. You’ll fall for the friendly, professional therapists who 

indulge you with a blissful treatment, and enjoy a stroll in the charming grounds. 

This is a place to unwind and have fun. You simply won’t want to leave. 

www.DeVere.co.uk/Belton-Woods 

ABCDEFH 

The countryside around Lincoln has a grace of its own. The towns of Gainsborough, Woodhall Spa and Sleaford mark its 

boundaries, it rubs shoulders with the Wolds and the Fens, and is home to the Rivers Witham, Slea and Till. An area visited by 

kings and poets, an area with ancient churches, country houses, lush farmlands and tradition. Lincolnshire is a county full of 

contrasts, full of history and heritage brought to life by friendly local characters and rural English charm. 

Day 3: After breakfast we begin our journey home 

via the Peak District. Britain’s first national park, was 

established in 1951, and is visited by people from all 

over the world. Today we visit the towns of 

Bakewell, Buxton, & Chapel-en-le-Frith and take in 

the breathtaking landscapes. Completing our journey 

and to arrive home late afternoon. 

Blackpool Illuminations 

YOUR INCLUDED EXCURSIONS: 

An evening tour of Blackpool’s world famous 

illuminations 

England 

Lincoln Cathedral & The Peaks 

BEST WESTERN CARLTON HOTEL, Blackpool 

The Best Western Carlton Hotel, Blackpool was built at 

the turn of the Century and is situated on the Quieter 

End of North Promenade, Blackpool. The Best Western 

Carlton Hotel, has panoramic views over the 12 miles 

of Sandy Beaches but is also within walking distance of 

the Blackpool Town Centre, Blackpool Tower, Winter 

Gardens and the latest Shopping Centre, Hounds Hill. 

Alternatively you can take the Tram along the 

promenade of Blackpool or even a Horse and Carriage 

ride along the Beach! The Best Western Carlton Hotel 

has a choice of 2 Restaurants. 

www.carltonnhotelblackpool.co.uk 

ABCDEF 


3 DAYS 


£162 

19TH–21ST 

AUGUST 

£162 


INCLUDES: 



Two Nights Dinner Bed & 

Breakfast 

Day 3: We say farewell to the Cheltenham Chase Hotel after 

breakfast and head via Evesham, Broadway, and Morton-in-Marsh 

and finally on to Stratford-upon-Avon, before continuing our 

journey homeward. 

3 DAYS 

21ST – 23RD JUNE 

£175 

6TH–8TH 

SEPTEMBER 

£175 



INCLUDES: 





Tour of Lincoln Cathedral 

Porterage 

3 DAYS 

3RD–5TH 

SEPTEMBER 

£175 


Supplement 


INCLUDES: 

All Travel by Modern Coach 

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast 

Accommodation 


Half Day tour to Fleetwood to pick up some 

bargains at the Fleetwood Shopping Outlet 

N.B. Pick-up points are restricted on this tour – 

Please check at time of booking. 

31

32 

Bournemouth 

England 

ABCDEFGH 

Renowned for its seven miles of familyfriendly, 

golden beaches, beautiful parks and gardens and cosmopolitan ambience, Bournemouth 

blends the contemporary with the traditional like nowhere else to ensure that you are truly spoilt for 

choice. Everyone loves the shimmering sands and sheltered waters and with the beaches having won 

more awards for their safety than any other UK seaside destination, Bournemouth is a must for seaside 

holiday enthusiasts of all ages. With over 2,000 acres of award-winning parks and gardens, cultural 

treasurers and a rich and varied entertainment programme to enjoy. 


Day 1: We depart during the morning and travel 

south via the motorways arriving at our hotel for 5 

nights dinner bed & breakfast. 

Day 2: We take the short journey to Poole, famed for 

its large natural harbour, claimed to be the second 

largest in the world. During the Second World War the 

town was one of the central departing points for the 

D-Day landings. We continue on to Weymouth. Many 

visitors to Weymouth are often surprised by what else 

the town has to offer apart from its fantastic beach. 

The historic harbour, restored Victorian fort, 

Bournemouth & Torquay South Coast Special 

The Gleneagles Hotel, Torquay ★★★ 

Offering 41 modern rooms many of which have ocean views. 

All rooms have private balconies and are tastefully designed 

with en-suite bathroom, TV, hairdryer and hot drinks 

refreshment tray. Facilities include swimming pool and jacuzzi. 

R 

ABCDEFGH 

enowned for its seven miles of familyfriendly, 

golden beaches, beautiful parks 

and gardens and cosmopolitan ambience, Bournemouth blends the contemporary with the traditional 

like nowhere else to ensure that you are truly spoilt for choice, whatever your holiday preferences. 

Torquay is the perfect holiday destination with its many attractions, safe beaches, sheltered coves and 

bright wonderful gardens. 


Monday 10th: We travel via the motorways to the 

Suncliff Hotel, Bournemouth with Tea/Coffee on arrival. 

Tuesday 11th: Day at leisure in Bournemouth. 

Wednesday 12th: After Breakfast we will head off 

for a half day tour to Weymouth. The historic harbour, 

restored Victorian fort, museums and other visitor 

attractions now mix harmoniously with the new town 

centre shopping complex. All the attractions are 

within walking distance of the town centre. 

QUEENS HOTEL, Bournemouth ★★★ 

This superb privately owned AA 3 Star Bournemouth hotel 

boasts 109 en-suite rooms and deluxe suites. It is ideally 

situated in the heart of Bournemouth's East Cliff, only a short 

walk from the busy town centre where you can find the 

Bournemouth International Centre, the Pavilion Theatre, 

family friendly pubs and restaurants that cater for all tastes. 

The Queens Hotel is also a few minutes walk away from 

Bournemouth's Blue Flag award winning, golden, sandy 

beaches and Bournemouth Pier. 

museums and other visitor attractions now mix 

harmoniously with the new town centre shopping 

complex. It is easy to get around Weymouth on foot 

and all the attractions are within walking distance of 

the town centre including the attractions located 

along the Old Harbour. 

Day 3: Free day in Bournemouth. 

Day 4: Full day excursion to the stunning Isle of 

Wight which is an island boasting unspoilt scenery, a 

mild climate, ‘Olde Worlde’ villages, beautiful 

countryside and lively seaside resorts. It occupies just 

147 square miles of which some 40% has been 

The Suncliff Hotel, Bournemouth ★★★ 

Many of the 95 modern rooms offer stunning sea views, balconies 

and terraces, all rooms have en-suite bathroom, television, hair 

dryer and hot drinks refreshment tray. The indoor leisure 

complex includes a heated pool, sauna and mini-gym. 

ABCDEFGH 

Thursday 13th: Full day excursion to the stunning 

Isle of Wight boasting ‘Olde Worlde’ villages, beautiful 

countryside and lively seaside resorts. The Island 

occupies just 147 square miles of which 40% has 

been designated areas of outstanding natural beauty. 

Friday 14th: After breakfast its time to pack your 

bags and board the coach for the second part of your 

holiday as we head for Torquay. We will be passing 

through Dorchester and Lyme Regis stopping off at 

Sidmouth before continuing onto Torquay and the 

Gleneagles Hotel. 


designated areas 

of outstanding 

natural beauty. 

Highlights’ 

include Shanklin 

& Godshill. 

Day 5: A free in 

Bournemouth. 

Day 6: Sadly 

after breakfast 

we bid farewell to Bournemouth and begin our 

journey homeward. 

Saturday 15th: 

After Breakfast 

we take a full 

5 DAYS 

2ND–6TH APRIL 

£245 

TROUVILLE HOTEL 

SPECIAL ITINERARY 

6 DAYS 

18TH–23RD JULY 

£365 

6 DAYS 

26TH SEPT– 

1ST OCT 

£365 

No Single Room Supp 


INCLUDES: 





Two Nights Entertainment 

Porterage 

8 DAYS 

10–17 MAY 

£445 



INCLUDES: 



4 Nights 3 Course Dinner, 

Bed & Full English Breakfast 

in Bournemouth 

3 Nights 3 Course Dinner, 

Bed & Full English Breakfast 

in Torquay 

2 Nights Entertainment In 

Bournemouth 

1 Nights Entertainment in 

Torquay 

Welcome Drink 

Day Trip to the Isle of Wight 

day drive along the Devon coastline to the ancient 

cathedral city of Exeter. Here you can stroll around 

the delightful cathedral, explore the city centre shops 

or visit the waterfront. Our return journey continues 

via Dawlish and Teignmouth. 

Sunday 16th: Day at leisure in Torquay. 

Monday 17th: After breakfast, sadly it’s time to say 

goodbye to Torquay, and start the journey home.

New Tour 

for 2010 

Owen’s Great Yarmouth 

Having been a flourishing coastal resort since 

1760, the once major fishing port of Great 

Yarmouth has perfected the seaside experience down to a tee. With arcades, seafront illuminations, two 

lively piers and a popular pleasure beach sporting over 70 rides from fairground classics to speedier 

white-knuckle affairs, flower gardens and mini-golf, there is plenty to keep visitors occupied. Greater 

Yarmouth is full of holiday surprises and contrasts; as the area takes in twenty one villages set in 

beautiful coastal and rural surroundings, alongside the tranquillity of the famous national park of 

The Norfolk Broads. Not forgetting Great Yarmouth & Norfolk have some of the best weather & holiday 

beaches in the UK. 


Day 1: We depart during the morning and travel East 

across the country to Great Yarmouth arriving at our 

hotel for 4 nights dinner bed & breakfast. 

Day 2: Free day in Great Yarmouth 

Day 3: Full day tour heading for the North Norfolk 

coast to reach Sheringham, a busy little resort with a 

fine sandy beach, a myriad of small seaside shops and 

New Tour 

for 2010 


Monday 13th: Depart from your home area 

travelling to East Anglia and arriving late afternoon at 

Mill Hotel Sudbury for 4 nights stay. 

Tuesday 14th: Leaving the hotel we cross into Essex 

and meander through the land of smugglers and 

intrigue – a land of marshes and hidden coves and 

lonely inlets – to Mersea Island before calling at a famous 

smugglers inn, The Peldon Rose. Booty at this inn was 

not concealed in the cellar, but in a large well hidden in 

the middle of the adjacent pond. We continue on our 

way to the Blackwater estuary with a wealth of legends 

about smuggling, to Maldon before our final call at 

Wilkin’s Tiptree Jam Museum, tea room and shop. 

the preserved sail powered lifeboat is worth visiting. 

Our second coastal visit takes us to nearby Cromer, a 

small Victorian holiday resort set on a bluff above the 

sea. The prominent church tower, which dominates 

the town, is the highest in Norfolk, there are lovely 

cliff-top gardens, and fishing boats on the beach catch 

succulent crabs which are found just off the coast. 

We complete our day when we return via Wroxham. 

Set in the heart of the 

Stour Valley, an area of 

outstanding natural 

beauty, is the ancient 

market town of Sudbury, 

birthplace of the artist 

Gainsborough. Sudbury is 

our base for this tour 

featuring many contrasting 

and varied aspects of East 

Anglia, from the colleges 

of Cambridge to the 

smugglers haunts of the 

coast. A tour with 

something for everyone. 

Wednesday 15th: This morning we make our way to 

Great Dunmow and Thaxted to Saffron Walden. 

Dating back to medieval times, the town has many 

ancient and historic town centre buildings. From here 

we drive to the University City of Cambridge where 

we have time to explore the famous colleges and 

obtain lunch before leaving for the historic City of Ely, 

with its beautiful Cathedral, known as the ‘Ship of the 

Fens’. We have time here before returning via 

Newmarket, with its many racing connections. 

Thursday 16th: Our day begins with a ride to 

historic Lavenham with its many colourful and old 

buildings. After a break we continue to Bury St. 

Edmunds, famous for its stunning Abbey Gardens 

England 

THE COMFORT HOTEL GREAT YARMOUTH ★★★ 

The 3-star Comfort Hotel in Great Yarmouth is a flexible 

family-friendly establishment, just two minutes’ walk from 

the town’s glorious, golden beaches. When you walk 

through the doors, you’ll find a warm and friendly 

reception, and every member of staff are dedicated to 

making your stay as relaxing and enjoyable as possible. 

You may also wish to take the opportunity to relax and 

enjoy the famous East coast sunshine in the hotel Garden. 

www.comfortgreatyarmouth.co.uk 

ABCDFG 

(Please note this hotel does not have a lift, however there 

are 3 rooms on the ground floor and 10 rooms accessible 

via 5 steps.) 

Day 4: Full day to Norwich one of England’s bestpreserved 

historic centres. Within the remains of the 

old City Wall, one can find the Norman Cathedral and 

Castle, the famous mustard shop, mediaeval 

buildings, cobbled streets, a colourful market and East 

Anglia’s premier shopping centre. 

Day 5: Sadly after Breakfast we bid farewell to Great 

Yarmouth and begin our journey homeward. 

East Anglian Adventure 

Mill Hotel, Sudbury 

The Mill Hotel in 

Sudbury is an absolute 

gem. Originally a flour 

mill, the hotel stands on 

the banks of the River 

Stour, the restaurant 

overlooks the terrace and 

delightful mill pond, and 

to set the scene, housed 

behind a glass screen 

between the restaurant 

and the lounge is the 

working mill wheel. 

ABCDF 


5 DAYS 


£265 

20TH–24TH 

SEPTEMBER 

£265 


Supplement 


INCLUDES: 


4 Nights Dinner, Bed and 



Porterage 


5 DAYS 

13TH–17TH 

SEPTEMBER 

£310 


INCLUDES: 





Chocolate Lady of Steeple 

Bumstead 

surrounding the 

Abbey ruins. 

Nearby is the Angel Hotel, where Dickens had Mrs 

Pickwick stay, and the Nutshell pub, the smallest in 

Britain. From here we continue into rural Suffolk and 

the village of Steeple Bumpstead where we visit the 

Chocolate Lady and enjoy a delightful demonstration 

in the art of producing hand made chocolates. We 

return through the pretty Suffolk villages of Clare and 

Cavendish, with pastel coloured houses, thatched 

roofs, antique shops and art galleries to Long Melford 

and Sudbury. 

Friday 17th: After breakfast we leave and begin our 

journey home. 

33

34 

Great Houses & Gardens of Norfolk 

New Tour 

for 2010 

For this tour we have chosen a nice mix of attractions, ranging from Royal Sandringham in the west of 

the country to Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden, nestled in the Broads. Based in a nice hotel 

not far from Norwich, we feel this will be a very enjoyable and unique holiday. 


Monday 7th: Depart from your home area travelling 

to Norfolk and arriving late afternoon at the Quality 

Hotel for four nights stay. 

Tuesday 8th: Our first visit today is to Bressingham 

Gardens, near Diss. These unique gardens are 

renowned for their horticultural excellence with a six 

acre garden and three linking gardens with over 8,000 

species on display. Later we return to Norwich for free 

time before enjoying a guided tour of the beautiful 

Norwich Cathedral. 

Wednesday 9th: We start the day with a drive to 

Royal Sandringham, the Norfolk retreat of Her 

Constable Country & Suffolk Villages 

New Tour 

for 2010 

England 

Rural villages, lush green meadows, rich farmlands and sandy 

heathlands depicted by the famous painters Constable & 

Gainsborough. Vibrant seaside resorts of the Essex coast where many 

of us spent our childhood holidays. Colchester, Britain’s oldest 

recorded town, is where the Romans set up their base in England. 

All this combines to give a tour of particular charm and nostalgia. 


Friday 25th: Travelling across country before arriving 

at the Marks Tey hotel for check-in 

Saturday 26th: A full day excursion visiting 

Christchurch Mansion, a red brick Tudor house set 

amid lovely parkland close to the centre of Ipswich. 

The mansion houses a museum showcasing fine art 

and period furniture, as well as a modern art gallery 

with changing exhibitions. Christchurch holds large 

collections of art by well-known Suffolk painters such 

as Thomas Gainsborough and John Constable. 

Christchurch Park has been open to the public since 

the 18th century for a variety of events, and is now a 

popular place for public events such as concerts, art 

Majesty the Queen. Built in 1870, the house has 

been passed down through four generations of 

British Monarchs. The house is surrounded by 60 

acres of glorious gardens and the museum features 

a collection of Royal cars amongst much else. 

This afternoon we make the short journey to the 

Norfolk Lavender Fields at Heacham to round off a 

very pleasant and interesting day out. 

Thursday 10th: Today we make our way east to visit 

the delightful Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden, 

with pleasant walks and boat trips on a private 

Norfolk Broad. From here we make our way to the 

north of Norwich and visit Blickling Hall, now in the 

fairs, and the like. The Park features an arboreta, a bird 

reserve, croquet lawns, a bowling green, tennis courts 

and children’s play areas. We continue to the time warp 

seaside town of Aldeburgh, little changed for many 

years and internationally famous for its association with 

the Aldeburgh Festival begun by Benjamin Britten. 

Returning via the Maltings at Snape, set on the banks of 

the River Alde in the evocative Suffolk landscape, a 

remarkable collection of 19th century buildings. 

Sunday 27th: We begin our day with an insight into 

Constable, including the birthplace of the famous 

painter at East Bergholt, an unspoilt village with many 

fine old houses and cottages. We also take in the little 

hamlet of Flatford Mill, a favourite landscape subject 


Quality Hotel, 

Nr. Norwich 

Our base for this 

holiday is the 3 Star 

rated Quality Hotel, 

situated to the west of 

the city of Norwich. 

Facilities include 

Leisure Centre with 

indoor swimming 

pool, sauna and gym. 

ABCD 

EFGH 

care of the 

National Trust. 

One of England’s 

great Jacobean 

Houses, 

Marks Tey Hotel, Nr. Colchester 

★★★★ 

The Best Western Marks Tey is 

undergoing a major refurbishment 

programme – from every double 

bedroom with a king size bed and crisp 

white linen and duvets to every twin 

room with a double bed and a single 

bed as well! Stay at The Best Western 

Marks Tey and you are choosing to stay 

in a bedroom that has been created to 

give you all of the simple reassuring 

comforts of home wrapped up in the 

luxury you would expect from 

Colchester’s leading four star hotel. 

ABCDFH 

5 DAYS 


£310 


Supplement 


INCLUDES: 





Royal Sandringham 

Blickling Hall 

Fairhaven Woodland and 

Water Garden 

Norwich Cathedral Guided 

Tour 

Bressingham Gardens 

Blickling is famed for its spectacular Long Gallery and 

collections of furniture, pictures, books and 

tapestries. The gardens are full of colour throughout 

the year and the extensive parkland features a lake 

with beautiful woodland and lakeside walks. 


homeward journey. 

4 DAYS 


£225 


INCLUDES: 





Entry into Christchurch 

Mansion 

and soak up the 

scenes of Rural England at first hand. Also visiting 

Dedham complete with its 131ft church tower and 

more Constable links. Afterwards we visit Roman 

Colchester, the oldest town in England. 

Monday 28th: We return home after breakfast via 

Lavenham, described as the best preserved medieval 

town and where you might enjoy a drink in the 

historic Old Bar of The Swan where one of the walls 

is signed by British and American airmen stationed at 

Lavenham Airfield during World War II. Continuing to 

historic Bury St. Edmunds famous for its Abbey 

Gardens and the Angel Hotel, where Dickens had 

Mrs Pickwick stay.

Owen’s TV & Film Trails in Yorkshire 

West Yorkshire’s 

villages and 

towns continue to 

play a starring role in 

TV productions and 

film crews regularly 

descend on the area. 

This long weekend 

visits some of the 

locations featured in 

more recent 

productions, and also 

includes a visit to the 

superb National 

Media Museum. 


Friday 6th: Depart from your home area in the morning 

heading for the Pennines moors and the Colne Valley, 

through Marsden and Slaithwaite, setting for the recent 

TV series ‘Where the Heart is’, into Huddersfield, arriving 

late afternoon at George Hotel. 

Saturday 7th: Our day begins with a visit to the thriving 

market town of Skipton – ‘The Gateway to the Dales’. 

Some scenes from the ‘Calendar Girls’ film were shot 

here, and we have free time to wander around the town – 

today is market day. Leaving mid afternoon we enjoy a 

lovely scenic drive through ‘Emmerdale Country’ to Otley, 

‘Hotton’ in the series, to the tiny village of Esholt, where 

the show was filmed for decades. There is time to wander 

around the sleepy lanes known to many as ‘Beckindale’ 

and then ‘Emmerdale’. Whilst in Esholt we enjoy a drink at 

‘The Woolpack’ Later we continue to the hotel for dinner. 

New Tour 

for 2010 

Sunday 8th: This morning we are on 

our way to Bradford to visit the superb 

National Media Museum, six floors of 

TV and film memorabilia, well worth the visit. Bradford 

itself is on the movie making map. In 1962 ‘Billy Liar’ 

starring Tom Courtenay, was filmed entirely in Bradford. 

The city also starred in 1959’s ‘Room at the Top’ with 

Laurence Harvey and Simone Signoret, and Tom 

Courtenay was back again in 1986, this time in ‘The 

Dresser’, with Albert Finney. Bradford’s beautiful 

Alhambra Theatre provided a splendid location. TV 

productions include Rita, Sue and Bob too, and the much 

acclaimed ‘Band of Gold’. Leaving Bradford we make our 

way to Haworth, legendary home of the Bronte sisters 

and their notorious brother. 

You have opportunity to visit the Parsonage and explore 

the cobbled Main Street before we make our way to 

4 DAYS 


£210 


Supplement 


INCLUDES: 





Drink at Woolpack 

National Media Museum 

Worth Valley Railway 

Haworth Station for a steam train ride on the Worth Valley 

Railway. On the way the train calls at Oakworth – this was 

the station used in the film ‘The Railway Children’ and 

the station is unchanged from that time. From Keighley 

we return to our hotel. 

Monday 9th: Leaving the hotel after breakfast we drive to 

Holmfirth, home of the legendary characters from ‘Last of 

the Summer Wine’. Familiar scenes include Sid’s Cafe and 

Nora Batty’s steps. The ‘Wrinkled Stocking’ tearoom serves 

refreshments and next door is the ‘Last of the Summer 

Wine Exhibition’ (Admission charge). This is located in 

what was Compo’s house during filming and contains lots 

of memorabilia and inventions from the series. From 

Holmfirth we make our way to our home area. 

Hidden Corners of Yorkshire 

This tour covers a splendid variety of magnificent scenery and contrasting countryside, with quaint 

Yorkshire towns and villages. We also feature a ride on the Wensleydale Railway, reopened after 50 years, 

re-living rural railway travel as it used to be all those years ago, as well as a boat trip on the Tees to Yarm. 


Monday 4th: Depart from your home area travelling 

north and arriving at Sporting Lodge Hotel late afternoon 

for 4 nights stay 

Tuesday 5th: Today we visit Thirsk, home of James 

Herriot, and a chance to take in the acclaimed World of 

James Herriot Centre. Afterwards we take in a piece of 

history as we take a ride on the ‘Wensleydale Railway’, 

newly opened after sleeping for over fifty years. This 

delightful little railway travels through some really 

beautiful rural countryside, passing hidden farms and 

villages, bringing back memories of how train travel was 

all those years ago. Later we end the day with a visit to 

Richmond, high above the River Swale. Here you will find 

a castle, the tiny Georgian Theatre, The Green Howards 

Museum and the Richmondshire Museum, which houses 

the ‘set’ from “All Creatures Great & Small”. 

Wednesday 6th: Our first visit today is to Preston Park 

and Hall Museum. The attractive parkland surrounds the 

museum, and in the museum itself you will find a delightful 

collection of memorabilia from times gone by. Take a walk 

back in time through the cobbled Victorian street and 

imagine life as is was in times past. At Preston Hall we join 

the ‘Teesside Princess’ and take a gentle cruise on the River 

Tees through beautiful countryside to the cobbled town of 

Yarm, famous for its location on the River and the awe 

inspiring railway viaduct. In the afternoon we drive 

through Bilsdale – “Little Switzerland”, and stop off at the 

Sun Inn, which has had the same landlord for 200 years! 

We then pass Rievaulx Abbey, and drop into Helmsley with 

its 12th century castle. On the way back to the hotel we 

journey over the spectacular Sutton Bank, giving you 

fantastic views of the moors and across the Vale of York. 

Thursday 7th: After breakfast we travel over the moors, 

across Blakey Ridge, through picturesque Hutton-le-Hole 

to Pickering, where we join the North Yorkshire Moors 

England 

George Hotel 

Huddersfield 

Our base is the Grade II 

listed George Hotel stands in 

the centre of Huddersfield. 

The hotel is famed as the 

birthplace of Rugby League 

Football in 1895, and, for a 

nominal fee, the Rugby 

League Museum in the hotel 

is well worth a visit. The 

hotel is situated on the main 

square and all of 

Huddersfield’s shops, 

restaurants, bars and 

museums are within easy 

walking distance. 

ABCDEF 

Sporting Lodge Hotel 

The Sporting Lodge Hotel is 

located on the outskirts of 

Middlesborough on the edge of 

the North Yorkshire Moors, and 

is ideally situated for the moors 

and dales. Hotel facilities include 

leisure centre with indoor 

swimming pool. 

ABDFH 


Railway for a 

steam train 

journey through 

rugged moorland 

to Whitby – 

passing through 

Goathland – 

‘Aidensfield’ in 

5 DAYS 

4TH–8TH 

OCTOBER 

£315 

No single Room 

Supplement 


INCLUDES: 





North Yorkshire Moors 

Railway 

Wensleydale Railway 

Entry to Preston Hall Museum 

‘Teeside Princess’ River Cruise 

TV’s ‘Heartbeat’ – on the way. Whitby is a maritime town, 

fishing port and seafarer’s haven, bursting with character 

and quite unique – little has changed since the times of 

Captain James Cook. We have time to wander the little 

alleyways and narrow streets and perhaps climb the 

famous steps up to the ruins of Whitby Abbey. Late 

afternoon we leave Whitby and return across the moors 

to the hotel. 

Friday 8th: We leave after breakfast for our journey 

home. 

35

36 

England 

Yorkshire’s Great Houses, Castles & Gardens 

New Tour 

for 2010 

Ramada Bradford/Leeds 

Hotel, Bingley 

Arriving is part of the 

experience at Ramada 

Bradford/Leeds Hotel, Bingley, 

an impressive Gothic mansion 

that would not look out of place 

on a film set. Located in private 

grounds the hotel retains the 

atmosphere of a private 

residence with views over the 

Aire Valley. 

ABCDEF 

Yorkshire is blessed with an abundance of great houses, castles, gardens and abbeys. Some are 

restored, others are majestic ruins, and some have found fame as settings for television dramas. 

On this new and unique holiday we have endeavoured to show you just a small selection of the vast 

array to be found in the White Rose County. 


Thursday 15th: Depart from your home area in the 

morning travelling to West Yorkshire and arriving late 

afternoon at Ramada Bradford/Leeds Hotel, Bingley for 

4 nights stay. 

Friday 16th: Our tour begins with a drive into North 

Yorkshire and the ascent of Sutton Bank, with magnificent 

views across the Vale of York, as we make our way to 

Helmsley. Here we take a break and include entry to the 

Walled Garden, also having time to obtain lunch and 

explore the huge market square. This afternoon we are at 

Castle Howard, best known for its starring role in the 

acclaimed television series ‘Brideshead Revisited’. We 

enjoy a tour of the house and time to explore the grounds 

Historic York 

New Tour 

for 2010 

Think York and many think of York Minster, 

Viking York at JORVIK, and York Castle 

Museum and York Dungeon. 

But that’s just the start of York’s world famous 

attractions. Boat trips on the River Ouse, 

and gardens before making our way back to the hotel. 

Saturday 17th: A short ride along the Aire Valley brings 

us to Skipton – ‘Gateway to the Dales’. Here we feature a 

visit to interesting and historic Skipton Castle, dominating 

the wide main street. Today is market day and we have 

time to explore the stalls and town centre. Enjoy lunch in 

one of the many pubs and cafes before we are on our way 

to beautiful Bolton Abbey. 

The Abbey and ruined Priory are set in a beautiful and 

tranquil location alongside the River Wharfe, surrounded 

by moorland, woodland and riverside. We spend a 

leisurely afternoon amongst this beautiful landscape and 

later return through Ilkley, viewing the famous Cow and 

Calf Rocks as we return to our hotel. 

Sunday 18th: 

Today takes us 

first to Otley, birthplace of Thomas Chippendale, and later 

famous as ‘Hotton’ in Emmerdale. From Otley we enjoy 

the superb scenery of Emmerdale country, taking in 

countryside familiar to viewers of the show. Our 

destination is the magnificent Fountains Abbey and 

Studley Royal Water Garden, near Ripon. The Cistercian 

Abbey, Georgian Water Garden, medieval deer park, 

Elizabethan Hall and Victorian Church offer visitors an 

unparalleled opportunity to appreciate the range of 

England’s heritage at this World Heritage Site. 

Monday 19th: After breakfast we leave and begin our 

homeward journey. 

entertaining guided walks and open-top bus tours take in the city’s historic architecture and introduce Excursions as Detailed 

York’s Roman, Viking, Medieval and royal heritage. Browse around the medieval shopping streets of 

Stonegate and the Shambles. Revel in York’s Roman heritage at the Yorkshire Museum, Walk the city walls and discover York’s royal 

history of kings, princes and England’s Christian history. Visit the fascinating National Railway Museum and you will soon realise the list 

is never ending, but of course you could just put your feet up and enjoy the hotel. 


Friday 10th: We leave this morning for York 

travelling via Harrogate a town is a popular tourist 

destination; its spa waters, RHS Harlow Carr gardens 

and Betty’s tearooms are world famous visitor 

attractions. After lunch we continue on to the 

beautiful city of York, and the Park Inn Hotel with 

PARK INN York ★★★ 

The Park Inn York Hotel is a vibrant hotel and conference centre 

located in the centre of York. Having just completed a £5 million 

pound investment programme, the hotel offers a comfortable, 

modern and stylish accommodation, in a relaxed setting. The hotel 

is located within the City Centre Walls, and is the ideal choice when 

visiting or exploring the many unique Shopping Districts and major 

tourist attractions that York has to offer. With 200 Newly 

refurbished bedrooms offering air conditioning, flatscreen 26” 

digital TV’s and large drench style showers as standard. The RBG 

Lounge Bar, with a unique riverside setting is the perfect location in 

which to enjoy a drink. Wi-Fi access available throughout the entire 

hotel and the Gymnasium and Sauna located in the Innaction 

Health & Fitness Centre is available to all residents. 

www.york.parkinn.co.uk 

ABCDEF 

plenty of time to settle in before dinner. 

Saturday 11th: Free day to Explore York with top 

attractions such as; The York Dungeons, the Jorvik 

Viking Centre, York Minster, the National Railway 

Museum, Clifford’s Tower, York Boat, York Designer 

Outlet Centre, Castle Howard and Visit York Tourist 

Information all within a 5-10 min. walk from the hotel. 


5 DAYS 


£320 


Supplement 


INCLUDES: 





Helmsley Walled Garden 

Castle Howard 

Skipton Castle 

Fountains Abbey & Studley 

Royal 

4 DAYS 

10TH–13TH 

SEPTEMBER 

£225 


Supplement 


INCLUDES: 



Facilities 

3 Nights Dinner Bed & 

Breakfast 

Sunday 12th: Free time to continue to explore York 

or join the coach for a full day circular tour firstly to 

Beverley, then Bridlington and on to Scarborough. 

Returning to York for your evening meal. 

Monday 13th: We return home during the morning 

and travel through the Peak District, Chapel en le 

Frith and Buxton.

Owen’s Kingdom of Northumbria 

This tour covers a variety of splendid scenery, contrasting countryside, historic towns, rugged 

coastlines, rolling hills and quaint northern villages. The ancient Kingdom of Northumbria offers 

some of the most striking unspoilt beauty in England. 


Sunday 9th: Depart from your home area in the 

morning travelling to Northumberland and arriving late 

afternoon at the Victoria Hotel for 5 nights stay 

Monday 10th: Today’s excursion takes us across the 

causeway to Holy Island and the mysterious Lindisfarne 

Castle – visible in the distance from Bamburgh. We return 

to Bamburgh for free time, maybe to visit the majestic 

castle on the beach, or the Grace Darling Museum. 

NOTE: The crossing of the causeway to Holy Island is 

governed by tide times. It may be necessary to amend this 

excursion. 

Tuesday 11th: Leaving after breakfast our day begins 

with a visit to the villages of Ford and Etal, a vast rural 

estate with Visitor Centre, steam railway, castles, 

paintings, cafe, tea rooms, craft workshops and the Black 

Bull, Northumberland’s only thatched roof pub. Whilst 

here we include a visit to Lady Waterford Hall – the hall 

New Tour 

for 2010 

was Ford School until 1957, a ride on the Heatherslaw 

steam light railway, and a visit to the Heatherslaw 

cornmill, England’s most northerly working water mill. 

From here we head for the Scottish Borders region at 

Coldstream and continue along the Tweed Valley to Kelso. 

Flemish in style, its wide cobbled market square and 

gracious Georgian buildings make it without doubt the 

most attractive town in the region. Kelso is also the home 

of Floors Castle, the largest inhabited castle in Scotland. 

We return to Bamburgh in time for dinner. 

Wednesday 12th: Our jaunt today is a Northumbrian 

Coastal Tour. From Bamburgh we head south through 

Seahouses to make a brief stop at Craster, home of the 

famous kippers. We continue south via Amble to visit 

Woodhorn, a superb development of a former colliery site 

into the Northumberland Museum and Country Park, 

featuring Coal Town and much more. Later we make our 

way to Alnwick, with its mighty castle, for a short break 

before returning to Bamburgh. 

Thursday 13th: 

We journey 

through beautiful 

countryside to the 

capital of 

Coquetdale, 

Rothbury, which 

was once a 

popular health 

resort where 

people came to take the air in its riverside setting of wide 

open spaces and delightful scenery. From here we then 

continue through stunning countryside to Northern 

Europe’s largest man made lake set in Europe’s largest 

man made forest – Kielder Water. The views are 

breathtaking and whilst here we include an enjoyable 

cruise round the lake. 


journey home. 

Durham, Bowes Museum & Beamish 

England’s most northerly region is known by many as the “Border Country” as it combines the four 

counties of Cleveland, Durham, Northumberland and Tyne & Wear. Northumberland boasts an infinite 

variety of landscape from desolate moors to rugged hills as well as eighty miles of coastline, two-thirds of 

which has been designated an area of outstanding beauty. 


Monday 11th: Morning departure as we head via 

Harrogate for lunch before continuing on to Durham 

for 4 nights dinner bed and breakfast. 

Tuesday 12th: Today we visit the Bowes museum. 

The magnificent French style chateau took 13 years to 

complete. It is French both in architectural design 

and inspiration in contrast with contemporary English 

museums which followed classical designs. Stone was 

quarried at the nearby Bowes estate at Streatlam the 

gardens were originally designed by John and 

Joséphine Bowes, and the formal parterre garden, 

complements this unique building. The Bowes 

Museum is a hidden treasure, a jewel in the heart of 

beautiful Teesdale. The magnificent building stands 

proud in the historic market town of Barnard Castle 

housing internationally significant collections of fine 

and decorative arts. 

Wednesday 13th: Full day excursion to Beamish, a 

superb living museum. It’s no ordinary museum, but 

a living, working recreation of life in the Great North 

in the early nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Meet 

people from the past, travel on the trams and vintage 

bus, venture underground at the Drift Mine. Sample 

the treats at the Jubilee Confectionary, talk to the 

animals at the farms, have a drink in the Sun Inn or 

England 

Victoria Hotel, Bamburgh 

The Victoria Hotel is situated at the top of Main Street in 

the coastal village of Bamburgh, overlooking the village 

green, just up the street from the magnificent castle on 

the beach. Recently renovated and upgraded, the hotel 

offers a genuine warm and friendly welcome. All rooms 

are individually named, fully en-suite, well equipped and 

comfortably furnished. Evening entertainment is 

planned on at least one evening during your stay. 

ABDF 

HOTEL RADISSON SAS Durham 

Nestled on a lovely bend of the River Wear, the Radisson SAS 

Hotel, Durham offers hotel guests beautiful views of the Cathedral 

and the old city of Durham. Just a short walk from top attractions 

such as Durham Castle, cathedral, Durham Market place, shops 

and amenities. Guests can enjoy free high speed internet access to 

PACE Health Club with 15 m indoor swimming pool, steam room, 

sauna, gymnasium and treatment rooms. Designed for comfort, 

the hotel’s bedrooms come with excellent amenities such as a flat 

screen Plasma TV, Satellite channels, Free Internet, Individual 

climate control, Mini bar, Iron and ironing board. 

ABCDEFH 


6 DAYS 


£425 


Supplement 


INCLUDES: 





Entry to Lady Waterford Hall, 

Ford Village 

Heatherslaw Light Railway, 

Etal 

Heatherslaw Cornmill, Etal 

Kielder Water Cruise 

Woodhorn Museum and 

Country Park 

5 DAYS 

11TH–15TH 

OCTOBER 

£340 


INCLUDES: 




Entrance to Beamish 

Entrance in to the Bowes 

Museum 

Guided tour of Durham 

catch a lesson in Excursions as Detailed 

the village 

Porterage 

school. Visit The 

Colliery Village, 

The Town and Pockerley Manor. 

Thursday 14th: After breakfast we take a tour of 

Durham City, which is a must for any visitor to this 

beautiful area, where attractions include the huge 

Norman Cathedral. The rest of the day is free 

Friday 15th: Depart after breakfast to Explore York 

with top attractions such as; The York Dungeons, the 

Jorvik Viking Centre, York Minster, depart York for our 

journey home mid afternoon. 

37

38 


Monday 28th: We depart in the morning for our 

journey into Yorkshire and check-in at the 

Ambassador Hotel. 

Tuesday 29th: A day at leisure in Scarborough. The 

resort offers first class attractions such as the award 

winning Sea Life Marine Sanctuary, Scarborough Art 

Gallery and the newly refurbished Rotunda Museum. 

Wednesday 30th: Travelling inland we travel 

The Tall Ships 

England 

Scarborough & The Yorkshire Coast 

S carborough 

enjoys an 

unrivalled 

position as one of 

Britain’s premier 

coastal resorts yet 

also lies 

tantalizingly close 

to North 

Yorkshire’s 

rugged National 

Park. On this 

holiday you can 

enjoy the golden 

beaches, superb 

parks and 

AMBASSADOR HOTEL, 

Scarborough ★★★ 

Most of the fifty-nine well 

equipped en-suite bedrooms 

have stunning sea views over 

Scarborough’s beautiful 

South Bay. 

Not only can you expect 

exemplary service, an 

exquisite restaurant and 

dining experience, but also an 

ambient bar and terrace area, 

heated indoor swimming 

pool, spa bath and sauna. 

ABCDEFGH 

gardens and wide range of leisure amenities, 

which have given Scarborough its justifiable 

reputation as well as the natural beauty and 

historical heritage of the county of Yorkshire. 

through Thornton-le-Dale and head for Castle 

Howard. Here “Yorkshire rivals Rome”. For over 300 

years this palatial stately home has commanded its 

position over the Howardian Hills and, more recently, 

was the setting for TV’s Brideshead Revisited. In the 

afternoon a scenic drive through the village Coxwold 

and past Byland Abbey brings us to the tiny village of 

Kilburn, under the famous White Horse. Our last stop 

of the day is in Helmsley for a short while before 

returning to our hotel. 

Hartlepool is proud and 

delighted to be chosen as a 

host for the prestigious Tall Ships 

Races in 2010. The town will 

welcome a magnificent fleet of 

around 100 tall ships after being 

chosen by race organisers Sail 

Training International to be the 

finishing point for the race. And we 

want you to be part of it!!! 

The Tall Ships’ Races are an 

internationally acclaimed annual 

competition organised by Sail Training International and held every 

summer in European waters. Each year between 70 and 100 vessels 

from 15-20 countries, crewed by some 5-6,000 young people from 

over 30 countries worldwide take part in this unique event that 

combines four days of activities in each port with racing or cruising-in- 

Thursday 1st: Half day tour visiting the resort of 

Bridlington with its beautiful beaches and award 

winning promenades and gardens offer a host of all 

weather activities. This famous seaside resort has an 

irresistible appeal for people of all ages. Shops, 

attractions, restaurants and the historic Old Town of 

Bridlington offer a great contrast to life on the beach. 

Friday 2nd: We leave our hotel after breakfast and 

return home. 

company between ports. The main aim of the event is to provide an opportunity for young people to develop their personal skills in a 

challenging and memorable sail-training environment and hence at least 50% of a Tall Ship’s crew must be aged 15-25. 


Saturday 7th: We leave during the morning and 

travel via the motorways to Jesmond for check-in at 

the Caledonian Hotel. 

Sunday 8th: The highlight of our weekend as we 

travel to Hartlepool. At centre stage will be the ships 

themselves with the larger class A and B vessels 

berthed in Victoria Harbour at PD Ports and the 

smaller ships of less than 8m beam berthed in 

Hartlepool Marina. Visitors will have the opportunity 

Caledonian Hotel, Jesmond, 

Newcastle upon Tyne 

The Caledonian hotel Newcastle is 

located in the heart of Jesmond, a 

chic and leafy area, a mile from 

Newcastle famous City Centre with 

its vibrant café and bar culture. 

The hotel itself combines 

Georgian architecture with a 

contemporary edge having 

recently been refurbished. 91 

spacious en-suite bedrooms, a 

fully equipped conference and 

banqueting centre, and a range of 

dining options are all available. 

ABCDEF 

to walk along the quayside and take in the sights, 

sounds and smells of the magnificent vessels and 

their domineering sails and masts. They will be able to 

go on board ships, meet the Captains and crew, and in 

some cases, go out on the open sea for a day sail. 

A Tall Ships Village will link the two berthing sites 

and will have the buzz of international street theatre, 

music stages, exhibitions and food from around the 

world. 

Monday 9th: We leave our hotel after lunch and 


5 DAYS 

28TH JUNE– 

2ND JULY 

£320 


Supplement 


INCLUDES: 



Breakfast 


Itinerary 

Entry to Castle Howard 

Welcome Tea & Coffee 

Porterage 

4 DAYS 


£215 


INCLUDES: 




One Lunch 


again travel to Hartlepool. The Tall Ships weekend will 

reach a climactic peak at the Eve of Sail spectacular in 

the evening of Monday 9th August which is 

traditionally the most popular and memorable event 

of the Tall Ships celebrations. This marks the end of 

the Tall Ships’ stay in Hartlepool and is guaranteed to 

draw in crowds of visitors. 

Tuesday 10th: Leaving our hotel after breakfast we 

return home.

Owen’s Isle of Man 

5 DAYS 


£370 


INCLUDES: 


Return ferry crossing 

Heysham to Isle of Man 


Breakfast 

Excursions As Detailed 

Avisit to the Isle of Man can be any sort of holiday you want it to be because there’s never a dull moment, whatever your age and 

interests. Fabulous scenery, medieval castles, Victorian railways and trams, beautiful parks and gardens, countless sporting activities, 

fascinating museums and superb Manx wining, dining and entertainment, the Isle of Man has it all! This charming and friendly island 

has over 200 square miles of beautiful unspoilt countryside and a coastline with little coves and superb beaches. Our base is the island 

capital, Douglas, with its horse drawn trams, Victorian pier and little specialist shops. 


Thursday 5th: We travel north to Heysham foe the 

early afternoon crossing to Douglas 

Friday 6th: First to Laxey, home of the famous ‘Lady 

Isabella’ water wheel, and the Laxey Woollen Mill. 

Later we continue to the north of the island to 

Ramsey and return to Douglas following part of the 

TT races course along the slopes of Snaefell. 

Saturday 7th: We visit the south of the island – first 

stop is Castletown, the island’s former capital, and 

then on to Cregneash, with stunning views of the Calf 

of Man. Port Erin, its beautiful bay guarded by the 

bulk of Bradda Head, is our next stop and we end the 

The ‘Most Beautiful Corner of England’ is the description that is often used to describe 

Cumbria’s Lake District, which has been an inspiration of so many for centuries, and just 

one visit will make you realise that it’s perfectly true! The breathtaking countryside and 

picturesque villages of the Lake District have inspired many a writer over the years. 


Sunday 29th: We travel north along the motorways 

to Carlisle and check-in at the Hallmark Hotel. 

Monday 30th: A drive to Keswick, the ‘Queen of 

Lakeland’. Returning to our hotel alongside Ullswater. 

Tuesday 31st: A full day excursion via Coniston, the 

little town known for its associations with the author, 

artist and social reformer John Ruskin. Coniston 

Water is where Donald Campbell met his death 

during the speed trials of his boat Bluebird in January 

1967, and Ambleside. Continuing to Windermere, the 

largest and most famous lake in the Lake District. 


England 

RUTLAND HOTEL, 

Douglas 

The Rutland has been 

transformed into a 

stunning 64 bedroom 

hotel offering comfort, 

style and quality. The 

Rutland is situated on 

the Queens 

Promenade in Douglas 

and enjoys panoramic 

views across Douglas 

Bay and is a short walk 

to the town. 

www.sleepwellhotels.com 

ABCDF 

day with a visit to Peel before returning across the 

island via Union Mills, another famous TT landmark, 

to Douglas. 

Sunday 8th: A day at leisure in Douglas 

Monday 9th: An early breakfast before we check out 

of our hotel and then take the crossing from Douglas 

to Heysham and home. 

Carlisle and the lakes 

Hallmark Hotel, 

Carlisle 

Hallmark Hotel Carlisle 

is an elegant Victorian 

building which has 

been transformed into 

one of the finest 

boutique style hotels. 

Its prime city centre 

location fronting 

Carlisle’s historic 

Court Square makes 

Hallmark Hotel Carlisle 

one of the most 

convenient hotels in 

Carlisle. 

ABCDEF 

4 DAYS 

29TH AUG– 

1ST SEPT 

£250 


INCLUDES: 





Porterage 

Wednesday 1st: We return home via the historic 

market town of Kendal, which offers enjoyable 

shopping, outstanding museums of Lakeland life, a 

ruined and, of course Kendal Mint Cake. 

39

40 

Photo © www.beaulieu.co.uk 

Worthing 

England 

CHATSWORTH HOTEL, Worthing 

The Chatsworth, Worthing’s most 

prestigious hotel, is a distinctive family 

run, 3 Star hotel, situated overlooking 

beautiful gardens, the sea and 

promenade. A Grade II listed building 

with a gorgeous Georgian frontage, the 

hotel is steeped in history and retains its 

19th century charm. The Chatsworth 

has recently completed an extensive 

refurbishment programme and all 

bedrooms are of a very high standard. 

www.chatsworthworthing.co.uk 

ABDEF 

Worthing is the largest all year round seaside resort in West Sussex. The focal point of the five-mile 

flat promenade, bright with flower borders, decorative lights and attractive Victorian lamp posts is 

the famous Worthing Pier, 292 metres long and built in 1862, ideal for a stroll. There are many beautiful 

parks and gardens and a large traffic free shopping centre. Worthing also has gently sloping beaches, as 

well as entertainment for all ages. 


Day 1: We depart during the morning and travel 

south via the motorways arriving at our hotel for 4 

nights dinner bed & Breakfast. 

Day 2: A full day excursion to Eastbourne one of 

Britain’s more elegant resorts with its wide spacious 

promenade, many gardens and squares. A Pier and a 

fine shopping centre are other features of the resort. 

Eastbourne also offers a variety of entertainment. 


Day 1: We depart travelling south to Winchester and 

our hosts the Winchester Hotel in time to relax before 

Dinner. 

Day 2: Today we take trip out to Exbury Gardens. 

The Gardens are a spectacular 200 acre (100 hectare) 

site, world-famous for the Rothschild Collection of 

rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and rare trees and 

shrubs. This earthly paradise offers a riot of colour in 

spring, an oasis of tranquility in summer followed by a 

splendid show as the leaves change in the autumn. 

Discover Exbury’s hidden beauty and escape the 

cares of the world as you explore a myriad of 

pathways. Let the train take the strain on a 20 minute 

journey or ride a chauffeur driven buggy to tour the 

Gardens. 

Day 3: Today we board the coach for a full day to 

Beaulieu with guided tours of the National Motor 

The distinctive three-tier promenade is bordered by 

dazzling floral displays and the turquoise and gold 

domed bandstand looks striking against the 

magnificent seascape. The new marina is one of the 

biggest and most sophisticated in Europe. We will 

also take the time to visit Beachy Head 

Day 3: Free Day in Worthing 

Day 4: An excursion to the historic towns of 

Chichester and Arundel. Chichester still preserves 

remains of its Roman origins as well as characterful 

Hampshire, Gardens, Wheels & Steam 

New Tour 

for 2010 

WINCHESTER HOTEL ★★★★ Winchester 

An ideal base from which to explore the contrasting 

historic city, the hotel offers attentive yet unassuming 

service coupled with sophisticated interior styling, with 

dedicated staff and great service. Bedrooms are 

superbly appointed and have a contemporary yet warm 

and welcoming feel. Facilities on offer include a 

purpose built fitness suite equipped with the latest 

Techno gym equipment, a heated swimming pool, 

steam room, sauna and spa pool. 

www.pedersenhotels.com 

ABCDEFH 

Museum, Beaulieu Abbey and Palace House. The 

Motor Museum has over 250 vehicles from every 

motoring era, from some of the earliest examples of 

motoring to legendary World Land Speed Record 

Breakers including Bluebird, ‘TV Star’ cars such as Del 

Boy’s Reliant Regal. Become part of the world’s 

biggest car show with Beaulieu’s newest attraction, 

‘World of Top Gear’. The James Bond Experience is a 

fascinating exhibition of genuine vehicles from the 

films, including the Lotus Submarine Car from ‘The 

Spy Who Loved Me’ and the Jaguar XKR Roadster 

from ‘Die Another Day’ plus memorabilia and props – 

even Jaw’s shirt! 

There is also the Wilderness garden and the Victorian 

Kitchen Garden to visit which continues the tradition 

of supplying the House with seasonal vegetables, fruit 

and flowers. The water feature, a focal point of the 

garden, has water trickling down bronze sticks and 


Georgian 

buildings and a cathedral dating from 1080. A visit to 

Arundel, dominated by its Gothic castle and the 

cathedral, which dates from 1873, you will be able to 

explore the town with its rustic teashops and 

charming shops, full of antiques and old books. 

Day 5: Sadly after breakfast we bid farewell to 

Worthing and begin our journey homeward. 

leaves onto a 

mill stone at its 

base. The Vine 

House has been 

producing fruit 

for over 100 

years. Peaches, 

plums, 

nectarines and 

apricots also 

ripen under its glass. 

5 DAYS 

2ND–6TH MAY 

£310 

26TH–30TH 

SEPTEMBER 

£310 


Supplement 


INCLUDES: 





Porterage 


4 DAYS 


£255 

3RD–6TH 

SEPTEMBER 

£255 


INCLUDES: 




Breakfast 

Entry and tour of the National 

Motor Museum at Beaulieu 

Exbury Gardens and Steam 

Train Ride 

You can also learn about the Special Operations 

Executive (SOE) which trained secret agents at the 

Beaulieu ‘Finishing School’ during WWII. A film, audio 

recollections and artefacts combine to tell this 

amazing story. 

Day 4: We depart Winchester after breakfast and start 

our journey home.

New Tour 

for 2010 

Owen’s Cambridge & East Anglia 

Cambridge is home to the famous University, carols in King’s College Chapel and punting on the river 

Cam. Cambridge is a compact cosmopolitan city with outstanding architecture old and new. The 

beauty of its ancient centre is preserved with its walkable medieval streets; college courts, gardens and 

bridges, be inspired by the museums and art galleries. Cambridge is a delight to visit in any season: relax in 

its many pubs, restaurants and cafes whilst exploring the independent shops around the historic market 

place. There are brand new shopping areas too, with all the high street favourites that you would expect. 


Monday 2nd: We depart travelling across country 

into Cambridge and arrive at the Menzies Hotel to be 

welcomed with a Tea/Coffee and in time to relax 

before Dinner. 

Tuesday 3rd: Today we board the coach for the very 

short drive to Cambridge with a full day to explore 

the beautiful city and all it has to offer. 

Wednesday 4th: Today we take a trip out via 

Newmarket, to Ely the third smallest city in England. 

The city is very attractive and retains many of its 

New Tour 

for 2010 

historic buildings and winding shopping 

thoroughfares. Nestled in the Fen countryside, this 

small city full of charm and beauty and is home to one 

of the most magnificent cathedrals in England. 

Thursday 5th: Today we take a tour covering the 

historic towns of Bury St. Edmunds, Diss and 

Thetford. Bury St. Edmunds was once the capital of 

East Anglia and the town and surrounding area are 

full of history and is a lovely mediaeval market town. 

Diss is an old market town built around the edge of a 

six acre lake, the town has attractive shops with a mix 

of Tudor, Georgian and Victorian houses. Thetford 

5 DAYS 

2ND –6TH AUGUST 

£295 


INCLUDES: 




Breakfast 

Porterage 

Free use of the Leisure 

Facilities (Excluding Spa 

Treatment) 

was the home of ‘Dad’s Army’ which started in 1967, 

and was chosen because the BBC had obtained 

permission to film at a Stanford Practical Training 

area. Apart from the occasional bomb going off or 

overhead jet aircraft, filming could go ahead 

undisturbed. The stars would come to Thetford for 

six weeks at a time, staying in the Bell and Anchor 

Hotels. This was usually in April or May each year 

until the last series in 1977. 

Friday 6th: We depart Cambridge after breakfast and 

start our journey home. 

Thames Valley – Oxford & ‘Midsomer Murders’ Country 

The Thames Valley is a delightful region and we have devised this tour to show the contrasts of the area to 

the west of London. Our tour features a boat trip, a beautiful riverside home, historic Windsor and the 

lovely Savill Garden, within Windsor Great Park, as well as a trip to historic Oxford. TV fans are catered for 

with a look at ‘Dibley’ and ‘Causton’. Something for everyone. 



morning travelling to Berkshire and arriving at Best Western 

Reading Moat House Hotel late afternoon for 4 nights stay. 

Friday 13th: Our first excursion takes us into the Chiltern 

Hills to the tiny village of Turville, better known for its role 

as ‘Dibley’ in the famous Dawn French TV series. 

We continue on our way through Christmas Common 

and Watlington to the upper reaches of the Thames and 

the University City of Oxford – land of the ‘Dreaming 

Spires’. We have time to explore the city, with its ancient 

colleges, beautiful old buildings and fascinating alleyways. 

This afternoon we enjoy a meander through ‘Midsomer 

Murders’ country. The lovely Thameside town of 

Wallingford stars as ‘Causton’, Dorchester-upon-Thame is 

one of the most frequently used locations, and others are 

the villages of Warborough and Ewelme. 

Saturday 14th: Leaving the hotel after breakfast our first 

visit is to the fascinating little town of Marlow, with its 

famous suspension bridge across the river. Built in 1831 

the bridge is similar to the one linking Buda and Pest in 

Hungary. There are fine views of the river from the bridge 

and on the opposite side is the famous ‘Compleat Angler’ 

inn. After a short stay in Marlow we continue to the larger 

town of Henley-on-Thames, famous for its rowing regatta, 

and we have time to look round before leaving around 

lunchtime for Caversham, near Reading. Here we join 

the boat for a 45 minutes sail on the Thames to 

Mapledurham. We include entry to the beautiful 

Mapledurham House and the 15th century working 

watermill. Late afternoon we return to the hotel. 

Sunday 15th: After breakfast we drive to Windsor. Here 

you have chance to visit the magnificent Castle, the largest 

and oldest occupied castle in the world. In 1992 a huge 

England 

MENZIES HOTEL & Golf Club ★★★★ Cambridge 

The Menzies Cambridge Hotel and Golf Club in Cambridge stands 

in 200 acres, just five miles from the famous University City. Since 

Menzies acquired the hotel, it has undergone a multi-million pound 

refurbishment programme which has repositioned the hotel as one 

of the finest four-star Cambridge Hotels. For relaxation the hotel has 

two superb facilities, the magnificent 18-hole championship golf 

course and the Waves Health & Leisure Club with its indoor heated 

swimming pool, fully equipped gymnasium, sauna and steam room 

– the ideal place to unwind after a busy day. 

ABCDEFH 

Best Western Reading 

Moat House 

The 4 star Best Western Reading 

Moat House Hotel is set in 

peaceful landscaped gardens on 

the banks of the River Lodden. 

After your day out enjoy a drink in 

the hotel’s own pub, the Poacher. 

ABCDEF 


fire destroyed 

almost 100 rooms 

in the castle, the 

restoration took 

five years. 

This afternoon 

we travel through 

Windsor Great 

5 DAYS 

12TH–16TH 

AUGUST 

£290 


Supplement 


INCLUDES: 

All travel by Executive Coach 




River Thames Cruise – 

Caversham to Mapledurham 

Admission to Mapledurham 

House and Watermill 

Admission to Savill Garden 

Park to visit the beautiful Savill Garden, started in 1932. 

The garden has many Royal connections and has a 

fascinating history. A new addition in 2002 was the Golden 

Jubilee Garden. Late afternoon we return, following the 

Thames at Cookham, seeing the magnificent Cliveden 

House, former home of the Astor family, high above the 

river, to Bourne End and back to the hotel. 

Monday 16th: After breakfast we begin our homeward 

journey. 

41

42 

England 

Wiltshire & Bath 

New Tour 

for 2010 

MENZIES HOTEL ★★★★ Swindon 

The Menzies Hotel which offers a town centre location, newly 

refurbished bedrooms, contemporary, award-winning restaurant 

and a superb bar. Following the acquisition of the Swindon hotel 

in August 2007, Menzies have undertaken a major refurbishment 

programme to create a new contemporary feel throughout, and 

upgrade it to one of the best four-star hotels in Swindon. All 95 

en-suite bedrooms are finished to the highest standard. With the 

usual refinements you would expect from a quality 4 star hotel. 

www.menzies-hotels.co.uk 

ABCDEFGH 

Wiltshire is a wonderful place for the tourist who is interested in the past with so many places to 

appeal. There are historical sites, ancient towns and places to entertain you. We include a trip to 

the wonderful steam museum, and take the opportunity to sneak out of the county to visit the roman 

city of Bath. We also stay true to Wiltshire itself and include visits to Marlborough & Devizes. 


Day 1: We depart travelling south to Swindon and our 

hosts the Menzies Hotel in time to relax before Dinner. 

Day 2: Today we visit the huge, first class indoor Steam 

Museum of the Great Western Railway in the heart of the 

former Swindon Railway Works. The museum tells the 

story of the men and women who built, operated and 

travelled on the Great Western Railway, This story is 

brought to life with videos – mixing rare archive film 

footage with the stories of ex-railway workers – and 

hands-on exhibits and interactive displays, famous 

locomotives and GWR memorabilia. Stepping into the 

museum, visitors are taken into the world of the railway 

worker at Swindon, passing through a series of 

reconstructions, carefully assembled using original 

Best of the West 

New Tour 

for 2010 

equipment, supported by video and interactive displays. 

Including: The Offices, General Stores, The Works & 

Carriage Body shops, and the Railway Station Coming 

down from the viewing platform, visitors can explore a 

reconstructed station platform – where a short train – 

comprising the famous ‘King George V’ and a 1934 Buffet 

Car . This is probably the best museum of its type in the 

country. Free time will also be give at the adjoining 

McArthur Glen Designer Shopping Outlet Village. 

Day 3: Today we head for the unique city of Bath, with its 

hot springs, Roman Baths, splendid Abbey and Georgian 

stone crescents all having attracted visitors for centuries, 

it is a beautiful and unforgettable place to visit. 

Day 4: Today we take a trip into the heart of Wiltshire 

starting with Marlborough, which is said to be the burial 

site of Merlin, magician to King Arthur. The present town 

Ashort break holiday with a difference and includes a visit to the Prince of Wales’ Charity Highgrove 

shop and a private charter cruise of Bristol Harbour. Combine this with charming country towns and 

villages and ancient landscapes. 


Friday 16th: We travel to Bristol and check-in to the 

Grand Hotel. The remainder of the day is free. 

Saturday 17th: The morning is free in Bristol and 

we leave after lunch to Bath. Bath and the 

surrounding area are brimming with things to see and 

do. Designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, 

Bath presents some of the finest architectural sights 

in Europe such as the Royal Crescent, the Circus and 

Pulteney Bridge alongside a diverse collection of 

museums and attractions. The compact city centre 

offers irresistible shopping Then the highlight of our 

weekend as we travel to Tetbury and visit the Prince 

The Grand Hotel, Bristol ★★★★ 

Located in the city centre, The Grand is a quiet haven in the 

heart of buzzing Bristol. The Grand (formerly known as Thistle 

Bristol) dates from the Victorian age, when local hero IK Brunel 

reshaped Bristol – and the world – with engineering feats like the 

Clifton Suspension Bridge and SS Great Britain. In a city that’s no 

stranger to major feats of construction we’ve been engaged in 

extensive refurbishment works of our own. We’ve completed 

refurbishment of the majority of our bedrooms and have fully 

refurbished our spectacular Wessex Suite and Grand Ballroom 

resulting in a more modern and contemporary look and feel 

whilst retaining the hotel’s Victorian charm. 

ABCDEFH 

of Wales’ Charity Highgrove shop at an exclusive out 

of hours opening with a glass of Highgrove Estate 

wine for everyone and a special Highgrove souvenir 

per couple. The new shop in Tetbury follows the 

success of the shop at Highgrove House and will sell 

an extended range of Highgrove gifts. All profits from 

the shop go to charity and are channelled into The 

Prince’s Charities Foundation. 

We return to our hotel for a late evening meal. 

Sunday 18th: This morning we visit Cheddar and 

Wells before returning to Bristol for a sightseeing 

cruise around the historical harbour – fascinating for 

its history and Bristol connections, enlivened by the 


boasts one of the 

widest High 

Streets in the country. The town has an excellent 

selection of shops, pubs and cafes in the High Street and 

the various fascinating back alleys and small courtyards 

with medieval timber framed houses which escaped the 

great fire. We continue on to the charming Market town 

Devizes in the centre of the county. The town surrounds 

the site of the first castle built by the Bishop of Salisbury 

in 1080 and said to have been the finest castle in Europe 

at the time. The town has many fine Georgian houses and 

is home to Wadworths, one of the largest family breweries 

still operating in the country. Local pubs still receive their 

supplies by horse and dray. 

Day 5: We depart Swindon and the Menzies Hotel after 

breakfast and start our journey homeward. 

captain’s 

informative 

commentary. 

This trip can easily 

be combined with a 

visit to the SS Great 

Britain. 

Monday 19th: 

We leave after 

breakfast and 

return home via 

Chepstow and 

Monmouth. 

5 DAYS 

17TH–21ST MAY 

& 13TH–17TH 

SEPTEMBER 

£270 


INCLUDES: 




Breakfast 

Entry to Steam Railway 

Museum 

4 DAYS 


£245 


INCLUDES: 





Exclusive Entry into Prince of 

Wales’ Highgrove Shop 

Bristol Harbour Cruise

Owen’s 

New Tour 

Experience some of our 

for 2010 

finest countryside 

between Winchester, 

first capital of England, 

and the white chalk cliffs 

of Eastbourne. If you are 

interested in great views, 

attractive wildlife, visible 

prehistory, fine pubs and 

pretty villages, the South 

Downs awaits you. 

Arundel and the Arun Valley is a picturesque setting on the 

South Downs, historic Arundel is famous for its imposing castle 

and Gothic-style cathedral, and its narrow streets full of 

intriguing antique shops and tearooms. 


Day 1: Morning departure heading south to our 

hosts at the Hilton Hotel Avisford Park between 

Chichester and Arundel, for the first of our 3 nights 

dinner, bed and breakfast. 

Day 2: Today we drive through the magnificent Sussex 

countryside and breathtaking scenery to the pretty 

market towns of Petworth and Midhurst. Petworth or 

rather ‘Peteorde’ as it was named in the Doomsday 

Book is a picturesque town full of character and 

brimming with old world charm. Take a little time to 

wander through the cobbled lanes, admire the 

Georgian architecture and stop to browse in the many 

antique shops. Midhurst sits on the doorstep of the 

Anew tour for 2010 visiting the lovely County of Kent. From 

our ideal base near Maidstone we cover many interesting 

attractions to make this a tour with something to suit everyone. 


Monday 23rd: Depart from your home area in the 

morning travelling to Kent and arriving late afternoon 

at Village Hotel Maidstone for 4 nights stay. 

Tuesday 24th: Our day begins with a ride to historic 

Faversham. Nestling between the rural gently sloping 

Downs and the austere north Kent marshes, Faversham 

is one of southern England’s most charming towns. It 

now has over 475 listed buildings and a good selection 

of independent shops. We have time for lunch here 

before we leave for Brogdale, home of the National 

Fruit Collection. Here we enjoy a fascinating guided 

South Downs once again Georgian architecture and 

old half-timbered buildings sit next to stylish boutiques 

and fashionable restaurants. These fine 17th and 18th 

century buildings served as the setting for past resident 

HG Wells many books, including his best-known novel 

‘The invisible Man’. We continue on to the compact 

and intimate, Chichester which is made for exploring. 

There’s history on every corner, from the Tudor Market 

Cross to the dominant Norman cathedral. 

Day 3: Today we visit the seat of The Dukes of Norfolk 

Arundel Castle. Set in 40 acres of sweeping grounds and 

gardens, Arundel Castle has 1,000 yrs of history and one 

of the great treasure houses of England, each having its 

own unique place in history and is home to priceless 

works of art. You will be able to see paintings and 

New Tour 

for 2010 

tour of the orchards, with tasting opportunities, and 

afterwards time to relax in the shop and tea room. This 

is a delightful afternoon, not to be missed. 

Wednesday 25th: Today’s excursion takes us first to 

delightful Tenterden, with its antique shops and tea 

rooms, where we enjoy a nostalgic steam train ride. 

Afterwards we have time for a look round and to 

obtain lunch. Leaving Tenterden we visit Biddenden 

Vineyards for a tasting, and from here we return to 

the hotel. 

Thursday 26th: This morning have a short drive into 

Maidstone, the county town of Kent. Here we have 

England 

Arundel Castle and the South Downs 

HILTON AVISFORD PARK ★★★★ 

Relax at the Hilton hotel Avisford Park, 

a former boys prep school set in 89acre 

grounds in rural Sussex. Tee off at 

the 18-hole golf course, work out at 

the health club, enjoy the indoor and 

outdoor swimming pools or improve 

your tennis. Feel at home in you 

comfortable bedrooms which are 

decorated in rich, warm tones with an 

easy chair and a 25-inch flatscreen TV. 

ABCDFH 

Please note the Hotel does not have a 

lift but does have 23 ground floor 

rooms. 

Village Hotel, Nr. Maidstone 

The excellent Village Hotel is located not 

far from Kent’s county town, Maidstone. 

Hotel facilities include 122 bedrooms, all 

non smoking, Village Pub, indoor 

swimming pool and verve grill. All the 

superbly appointed bedrooms are en-suite. 

ABCDEFH 


furniture, 


tapestries and Tour of Arundel Castle 

stained glass, Porterage 

china and clocks, 

sculpture and carving, heraldry and armour in stunning 

room settings. Make sure you leave time to visit the 

recently opened formal gardens opened by Prince 

Charles. The Georgian & Victorian walled kitchen 

garden was built to supply the castle with flowers & 

vegetables. The rare lean-to peach house & vinery is 

home to some exotic fruits. There is also the Gothic 

Fitzalan Chapel the domed pergola & fountains and the 

centre canal pond & cascade to see. 

Day 4: After breakfast its time to leave our hosts and 

begin our journey homeward. 

time to explore 

and have lunch. 

Whilst here we 

enjoy a sail along 

4 DAYS 

23RD–26TH MAY 

£245 

3RD–6TH 

OCTOBER 

£245 


INCLUDES: 




Orchards, Vinyards, Castles & Steam 

5 DAYS 

23RD–27TH 

AUGUST 

£320 


Supplement 


INCLUDES: 




Kent & East Sussex Railway 

Biddenden Vineyards 

Leeds Castle 

River Medway Cruise 

Brogdale Farm – The National 

Fruit Collection 

the River Medway aboard ‘Kentish Lady’. In the 

afternoon we visit nearby Leeds Castle, said to be 

‘The most beautiful castle in the world’. Set in 500 

acres of parkland, woodland walks and formal 

gardens, our visit takes us on a journey through the 

castle’s 1000 years history. 


journey home. 

43

44 

Sidmouth 

Torquay 

England 

Following many requests from our clients we have now been able to introduce a tour based in 

Sidmouth. Beautiful gardens and leisurely walks, regency history and fine hotels, clean beaches and 

friendly shops.... it’s all here in this lovely seaside town that nestles beneath majestic red cliffs and the 

green hills of the glorious Sid Valley. Its time warp ambience is the perfect prescription to relax and 

browse, be it a seafront stroll or a bracing walk on Peak Hill to wonder at the magnificent panorama of sea 

and coast with Sidmouth spread below. For the less energetic there is many a gentler stroll around town, 

park and garden and along the seafront linked by a walkway to the western beach at Jacob’s Ladder. 


Day 1: We depart during the morning and travel south 

via the motorways before arriving at our hotel for 3 or 4 

nights dinner, bed and breakfast accommodation 

Day 2: Morning free in this delightful resort. We spend 

the afternoon in the historic cathedral city of Exeter, the 

Capital of Devon. 

Day 3: Full day excursion along the Devonshire coast, 

orquay is often called ‘The Queen of the English 

TRiviera’ with a style of its own, and has an 

international flavour as distinct as Cannes. The palm 

trees and other exotic tropical plants and flowers, the 

busy harbour and rolling green countryside give 

Torquay a special atmosphere. Torquay has its own 

shopping centre, with first class stores. The many 

beaches stretch along both sides of the town and the 

Promenade takes you on to the most famous, Torre 

Abbey sands. With theatres and lively shows there is 

something for everyone in Torquay. 


Day 1: We depart during the morning and travel south 

via the motorways arriving at our hotel for 4/5 nights 

dinner bed & Breakfast. 

Day 2: Free Day in Torquay 

Day 3: Full day tour to Totnes & Dartmouth. The ancient 

borough of Totnes enjoys a prominent position above the 

River dart. The town is one of Devon’s gems; full of both 

colour and character, that stems from a rich cultural, 

historically and archaeological heritage. The town is an 

architectural feast to those interested in historic buildings 

– with fine examples of properties dating back to 

Norman, Medieval and Tudor times. Browse amongst the 

Royal York & Faulkner Hotel 

The hotel’s beautifully appointed ground floor 

offers three individual & tastefully furnished 

lounges where guests may relax, read, enjoy 

beverages & drinks or merely take in the views. 

The York Lounge, overlooking the sea & 

Esplanade, is the perfect venue for enjoying 

Afternoon Tea, homemade cakes and scones with 

Devonshire cream. The elegant Reading Room 

with its beautiful Toile panels is a quiet haven 

where guests may relax. The Writing Room, with 

its pretty pastel décor, offers a colour television 

for guests’ enjoyment as well as a writing desk. 

ABCDEF 

calling at the quaint village of Dawlish. Continuing to one 

of the county’s oldest resorts at Teignmouth before 

returning via Babbacombe Model Village for included visit 

to see this fascinating miniature masterpiece. 

Day 4: (4 Day Tour) Sadly we say farewell to the Royal 

York & Faulkner Hotel and begin our journey home. 

Day 4: (5 Day Tour) A day excursion to Weymouth. The 

Classic Seaside Resort of Weymouth, with its fantastic 

THE TOORAK HOTEL ★★★ 

Nothing is too much trouble at the Toorak Hotel, Torquay where the friendly 

staff do their utmost to make sure you are well looked after. Comfortable 

accommodation, bright south-facing lounges and a sunny bar with its own 

continental style terrace blend together to make the perfect ingredients for 

an enjoyable and restful stay. The breakfast buffet is a popular choice, and 

evening dining in the award-winning restaurant is a real pleasure. 

www.TLH.co.uk/TorquayHotel 

ABCDEFGH 

THE PALACE HOTEL ★★★ 

Torquay’s largest and most prestigious 4 star hotel is a luxurious haven of calm 

and outstanding service at the heart of the English Riviera. Torquay hotels 

don’t get better than this. Comfortable rooms, fabulous gardens, unrivalled 

hotel leisure facilities and personalised service make this a very special 

destination. The location is truly enviable. Tucked away in a quiet wooded 

valley and surrounded by splendid coastline, the privately owned luxury hotel 

still echoes the dignity and many of the characteristics of its notable heritage 

as the home to the Bishop of Exeter, and is just a stone’s throw away, from the 

centre of Torquay. 

www.palacetorquay.com 

ABCDEFGH 

delightful shops for arts, crafts and unusual gifts. After 

some free time in historic Totnes we make a visit to the 

ancient port of Dartmouth, with ancient narrow streets 

and old quays, boutique shops, art galleries & 

delicatessens. 

Day 4: Full day drive takes us along the Devon coastline 

to the ancient cathedral city of Exeter. Here you can stroll 

around the delightful cathedral, explore the city centre 

shops or visit the waterfront. Our journey continues to 

the little resort of Sidmouth, which is justly proud of its 


beautiful floral 

displays and 

Regency style 

architecture. 

Day 5: Free Day 

in Torquay (6 Day 

tours only) 

4 DAYS 

26–29 MARCH 

£239 

5 DAYS 

15–19 AUGUST 

£379 



INCLUDES: 


3 or 4 Nights 4 Course Dinner, 

Bed & Breakfast 

Accommodation 


Entrance to Babbacombe 

Model Village 

beach and vibrant harbour, nestles perfectly alongside the 

rugged ‘Isle’ of Portland, the perfect place for visitors who 

just want to get away from it all. With plenty of places to 

eat and drink, and all year round events, attractions and 

activities there’s something for everyone. 

Day 5: (5 Day Tour) We leave our hotel after breakfast 

and return home. 

6 DAYS 

27TH JUNE– 

2ND JULY 

£360 

19TH–23RD SEPT 

£360 


6 DAYS 

10TH–14TH OCT 

(PALACE HOTEL ★★★★) 

£309 


INCLUDES: 



Facilities 


Accommodation 


Day 5/6: Sadly after Breakfast we bid farewell to Torquay 

and begin our journey homeward.

Owen’s Delights of Cornwall 

Cornwall is justifiably one of Britain’s most visited counties and it’s easy to see why. Atlantic breakers 

pound the rocky cliffs of its stunningly beautiful coastline. Charming, colourful fishing villages and 

smugglers haunts contrast with the delightful inland countryside and interesting towns. Cornwall is 

privileged to have an unusually mild climate making it an ideal destination. Our tour is centred in 

St. Agnes, a charming village north of Truro, perched on a hillside overlooking Trevaunance Cove. 


Day 1: We travel via the motorways and 

into Devon and Cornwall arriving in 

St. Agnes for check-in at the Rosemundy 

Hotel. 

Day 2: Full day excursion making a short 

stop in the delightful fishing village of 

Padstow. Returning on the glorious 

coastal road via Watergate Bay before 

returning to St. Agnes. 

Day 3: Full day excursion to ‘The Eden 

Project’, Cornwall’s world class visitor 

destination – dramatic global village 

featuring the world’s largest greenhouse. 

Day 4: A ‘Cornish Circular’ tour today, as 

we travel to Falmouth, a busy deep water 

harbour town and continuing to St. 

Michael’s Mount. 

Day 5: On our 5 day tour we return home. 

Day 5: We take the short journey into 

Newquay, famous for its zoo, beaches 

and surfing. (7 Day tour Only) 

Day 6: A short drive to the Cornish 

capital, the Cathedral City of Truro, with 

time for shopping and sightseeing. 

(7 Day tour Only) 

Day 7: We depart our hotel after 

breakfast and return home. 

Ilfracombe is the perfect location for North Devon holidays, offering you a gateway to an exciting blend 

of stunning coastal scenery, seaside fun, rural tranquillity and centuries of heritage and style. A coast of 

contrasts, Ilfracombe is a stunning coastal town with white washed houses, grand Victorian villas and 

terraces. Nestling between the National Park of Exmoor to the east and the golden coast to the west. 

A resort that also has a contemporary edge from its top class restaurants and galleries, to its theatre. 


Day 1: We leave our home area and travel via the 

motorways into Devon and Ilfracombe. 

Day 2: A free day in Ilfracombe. 

Day 3: It’s off to Bideford, complete with its thriving 

shopping and working harbour. We return via North 

Devon’s premier town of Barnstaple on the Taw Estuary 

with its shops in the Atlantic Indoor Shopping Centre 

and the famous Pannier Market and Butchers Row. 

Day 4: A full day tour through Exmoor National Park 

with stunning landscapes, wilderness and tranquillity, 

and the glimpse of wild red deer or the native Exmoor 

pony are just a couple of the delights that make 

Exmoor special. Our first destination is the twin towns 

of Lynmouth and Lynton offer the best of both worlds 

– a breath of sea air and wonderful scenery. 

Continuing through the national park on to Minehead 

and Dunster. 

Day 5: We leave our hotel after breakfast and 

return home. 

England 

Carlton Hotel, Ilfracombe 

A warm welcome awaits you at the Ilfracombe Carlton, a privately 

owned hotel, well situated in the heart of Ilfracombe – North 

Devon’s premier seaside resort. Dine in style within the elegant 

restaurant offering a fine selection of mouth watering British 

dishes and tempting home made sweets, all complimented with a 

choice of fine wine. Our chefs always endeavor to use fresh local 

produce wherever possible. Entertainment is available most 

evenings, with our sprung dance floor offering you the 

opportunity to dance the night away in style. Our hotel is situated 

a short level walk from all the resorts attractions and the 

Landmark theatre, and just a ten minute stroll from the harbour. 

ABCDEFG 

ROSEMUNDY HOUSE 

HOTEL, St. Agnes 

The 3 Star Rosemundy 

House is based on an 

elegant Queen Anne 

residence, and stands in its 

own secluded and sheltered 

gardens and woodland that 

extend to over 4 acres, yet 

only 400 yards from the 

main street in the unspoilt 

village of St. Agnes. 

www.rosemundy.co.uk 

ABDF 


5 DAYS 

2ND–6TH APRIL 

£300 

7 DAYS 


£465 

4 DAYS 

12TH–15TH NOVEMBER 

(MISTLETOE & WINE – 


£235 

4 DAYS 

30TH DEC–2ND JAN 

(NEW YEAR TOUR – 


£325 


Superior Room (On Request): 

£6 per person per night 

INCLUDES: 


Three, Four or Six Nights 


Accommodation 


Entry into Eden Project 

Ilfracombe 

5 DAYS 


£265 

18TH–22ND 

OCTOBER 

£245 


Supplement 


INCLUDES: 





Two Nights Entertainment 

(Subject to numbers) 

Porterage 

45

46 

Eastbourne 

Eastbourne is one of Britain’s more elegant resorts with its wide spacious promenade, many gardens 

and squares and the rolling grasslands ascending to the high perpendicular cliffs of Beachy Head. 

A Pier and a fine shopping centre are other features of the resort. Eastbourne also offers a variety of 

entertainment. The distinctive three-tier promenade is bordered by dazzling floral displays and the 

turquoise and gold domed bandstand looks striking against the magnificent seascape. The new marina is 

one of the biggest and most sophisticated in Europe. Entertainments and amusements are plentiful, 

which will keep you amused throughout the day and into the night too! 


Day 1: We depart during the morning and 

travel south via the motorways arriving at 

our hotel for 4 nights dinner bed & 

breakfast. 

Day 2: After breakfast we depart for a full 

day following the coast through Seaford and 

Newhaven to Brighton. Nestling between 

the South Downs & the sea on the stunning 

south coast, Brighton offers everything from 

Isle of Wight 

THE YORK HOUSE ★★★ 

The elegant Victorian hotel has the most stunning seafront 

position, just 400 yards from Eastbourne pier, 20 yards from the 

gently-sloping beach and close to Eastbourne town centre. 

The hotel lobby provides an elegant and relaxed environment with 

free wifi for hotel guests. Feel free to enjoy a drink on the 

verandah, the verandah bar offers a selection of fresh bar snacks 

which can be enjoyed in the public areas or in the bedrooms. 

Or take a dip in the Bermudian swimming pool which is heated to 

a refreshing 80 degrees, changing facilities adjoin the pool area. 

www.bw-yorkhouse.co.uk 

Regency heritage to beachfront cool with a 

fantastic mix of iconic attractions. We then 

travel on to Worthing which is the largest all 

year round seaside resort in West Sussex, 

The focal point of the five mile flat 

promenade, is the famous pier. We return 

via Lewes to our hotel. 

Day 3: Free day in Eastbourne 

Day 4: Full day tour to the popular spa 

town of Royal Tunbridge Wells. The town 

The Isle of Wight is 

often described as 

‘The Garden Isle’, the 

wonderful scenery and 

attractive resorts make it 

the perfect place for a 

relaxing holiday. 

Enjoying an 

unseasonable amount 

of warmth and 

sunshine, more than 

half the Isle of Wight has 

been designated an Area 

of Outstanding Beauty, with fifty per cent of its coastline 

honoured by the title ‘Heritage Coast’. 


Day 1: Morning start head south via the 

motorways for our Solent crossing, by ferry, to 

the Isle of Wight and on to the Shanklin Hotel. 

Day 2: Free Day in the village of Shanklin, a 

extremely pretty village famed the area for the 

pretty thatched cottages, quaint shops and old 

fashioned tea rooms. You can also use the cliff 

top lift, take the small train or take a stroll 

down to the safe sandy beach. 

Day 3: Full day excursion to Newport the 

capital and county town of the island. 

Newport is an ideal shopping venue. We 

return via Godshill, a picturesque village 

renowned for its pretty thatched cottages and 

famous for its model village set in the gardens 

of the old vicarage. 

England 

Day 4: Full day visit to Osborne House, 

Queen Victoria’s palace by the sea. Look out 

for Victorian opulence, extravagant interiors 

and jaw-dropping Indian decor in the Durbar 

Room. Osborne was built as a family home 

and as you walk through the Queen’s 

bedroom, the nursery rooms and even royal 

bathrooms, you get an intimate glimpse into 

royal family life. 

Day 5: Relax in comfort as we travel to the 

West to the East of the Isle of Wight, absorbing 

the famous scenery and heritage coastline. 

Stopping at Yarmouth in the West, before 

continuing to Ryde in the East, a Victorian 

seaside resort which is elegant and 

atmospheric, it’s a delightful place to explore. 

Day 6: (Sept/Oct) Morning Ferry across the 

ABDEFGH 

centre may be considered in two halves: the 

southern, and older section; and the 

Victorian northern area. The southern part, 

mainly Georgian in origin contains at its 

heart the ‘village’ area. It is here that the 

Pantiles can be found, which contain the 

spa which made the town so famous. 

Day 5: Sadly after breakfast we bid farewell 

to Eastbourne and begin our journey 

homeward. 

SHANKLIN HOTEL ★★★ 

Shanklin Isle of Wight 

The 3 star Shanklin Hotel on the Isle of 

Wight is the perfect location for a summer 

holiday, in a premier location with 

spectacular views over Sandown Bay and the 

surrounding downlands gives the Shanklin 

Hotel a remarkable backdrop. The Hotel has 

a well deserved reputation for continually 

delivering high standards in service and 

hospitality and the Starlite Restaurant, with 

panoramic views across the sweep of the 

bay, is recognised for producing quality 

food, using fresh ingredients. 

www.shanklinhotel.co.uk 

ABDEFGH 

Solent and homeward bound. 

Day 6: Half day tour to Sandown, the largest 

of the Isle of Wight’s resorts. The High Street 

is packed with interesting small shops and the 

magnificent sandy beach slopes gently into 

the sea. 

Day 7: (May/June) Morning Ferry across the 


Day 7: Full day tour to Cowes. Since 1826 

Cowes Week has played a key part in the 

British sporting summer calendar and is one 

of the UK’s longest running and most 

successful sporting events. It now stages up to 

40 daily races for over 1,000 boats and is the 

largest sailing regatta of its kind in the world. 

Day 8: (Sept/Oct) Morning Ferry across the 



5 DAYS 

17TH–21ST MAY 

£285 

16TH–20TH 

AUGUST 

£305 

11TH–15TH 

OCTOBER 

£275 


Supplement 


INCLUDES: 


4 Nights Dinner, Bed and 


Excursions as Detailed. 

Porterage 

Minimum 2 Nights 

Entertainment’ Live & 1 

Nights in-house 

Entertainment 

7 DAYS 

31ST MAY– 

6TH JUNE 

£390 

8 DAYS 

31ST JULY– 

7TH AUGUST 

(COWES WEEK) 

£495 

6 DAYS 

27TH SEPTEMBER– 

2ND OCTOBER 

£359 



Sea view: £5pppn 

INCLUDES: 



Accommodation 


Entry to Osborne House 

Entertainment

Photo © Flickr - Rambling Traveler 

Owen’s Mystery Tours 

Do you love a 

mystery… 

Adelightful tour offering a varied choice of excursions and attractions, 

with the added bonus of staying in a 4 star hotel. This tour features a 

lovely part of England and has something for all. 



morning travelling to Hampshire and arriving late 

afternoon at Hilton Basingstoke Hotel for 4 nights 

stay. 

Friday 30th: This morning we enjoy a relaxing cruise 

of around 2 hours on a traditional-style canal boat on 

the Basingstoke Canal. We cruise through peaceful 

and attractive scenery and drinks and light 

refreshments are available on board. 

After the cruise we head off into Basingstoke and to 

Milestones. This is a living history museum where you 

wander down cobbled streets, chat with staff in 

period costume and explore the shops and factories 

to experience everyday life from 1810 to 1950. 

Saturday 31st: Our day begins with a ride to the 

…with a little 

intrigue to boot? 

Then join us on one of our Mystery Tours… 

Once again we are pleased to include in our programme the ever-popular Mystery 

Tours. They will again be great value for money and every tour is guaranteed to be 

different from the previous month, and on each tour you will receive scenic tours to 

local places of interest and ample stops will be made. 

We guarantee only good quality hotels will be used, some having extensive leisure 

facilities, and all offering a very high degree of comfort. All rooms will have private 

facilities and you will enjoy dinner and full English breakfast each day. 

We cannot guarantee that all hotels will have a lift or Porterage available 

New Tour 

for 2010 

pleasant town of Alton. Here we join the Mid Hants 

Railway – ‘The Watercress Line’ for a 10 miles journey 

over the ‘Hampshire Alps’ to Alresford. Alresford is 

the home of the Hampshire watercress industry, from 

which the line takes its name. Later we continue to 

spend the afternoon in historic Winchester, with its 

magnificent Cathedral. 

Sunday 1st: A complete change today as we have a 

day out to the coast. Portsmouth is our destination 

and here there is lots of interest to see and do. Visit 

the Historic Dockyard, home of ‘Victory’ and ‘Mary 

Rose’, wander around the Old Town and visit the 

lovely Cathedral as well as Spice Island, former haunt 

of smugglers and press gangs, enjoy a stroll along the 

seafront or just sit and relax and watch the many ships 

and ferries coming and going. Late afternoon we 

England 

Hilton Hotel, Basingstoke 

The 4 Star rated Hilton Hotel 

is located on the outskirts of 

Basingstoke and is ideally 

placed for getting around the 

delightful Hampshire 

countryside. All bedrooms 

are en-suite and have all the 

modern day facilities you 

would expect from a hotel of 

this standard, including pay 

movies and hairdryer. 

ABCDEF 


3/4/5/ DAYS FROM 

£130 

SUPPLEMENTS 

Single Room – 3 Days – £20 

Single Room – 4 Days – £30 

Single Room –5 Days – £40 

3 Days 19th–21st February £130 

5 Days 22nd–26th March £210 

4 Days 23rd–26th April £169 

3 Days 21st–23rd May £135 

3 Days 18th–20th June £135 

3 Days 16th–18th July £135 

4 Days 20th–23rd August £175 

3 Days 24th–26th September £135 

3 Days 22nd–24th October £135 

3 Days 19th–21st November £135 

INCLUDES: 


2, 3 or 4 Nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast 

Accommodation 

Excursions to Local Places of Interest 

Hampshire Delights 

5 DAYS 

29TH JULY– 

2ND AUGUST 

£310 


Supplement 


INCLUDES: 




return to the 

Basingstoke Canal Cruise 

hotel for our last Entry to Milestones 

night. 

Mid Hants Railway 

Monday 2nd: 

After breakfast we leave and begin our homeward 

journey. 

47

New Air & Cruise holidays in 

association with CITO 

We are proud to be members of CITO and welcome you to our Worldwide Air and 

Cruise Holiday collection. Here you will find a unique selection of high quality 

holidays prepared by us and the specialist tour operators who make up CITO. 

New Zealand 

30th Jan 2010 26 days 

Corsica 

25th April 2010 8 days 

Andalucia 

8th May 2010 8 days 

Sicily 

20th May 2010 8 days 

Canadian Rockies/Alaska 

5th June 2010 17 Days 

Norway 

11th June 2010 7 days 

Douro River Cruise 

25th July 2010 8 days 

Croatia 

6th Sept 2010 8 days 

Costa Dorada 


Travelmaster 

Danube to 

Rhine Cruise 


Andalucia 

2nd Oct 2010 8 days 

Madeira 

12th Oct 2010 8 days 

Canaries Cruise 

20th Oct 2010 12 days 

South Africa 

(Plus a 2 day ext. to Victoria Falls) 

3rd Nov 2010 18 days 

Christmas in Vienna 

22nd Dec 2010 6 days 

New Zealand 

29th Jan 2011 26 days 

South American Cruise 

26th Feb 2011 18 days 

To order your Air and Cruise brochure 

please call 01691 652126/654928 

HEAD OFFICE: 

Owens Travelmaster Holidays 

36 Beatrice Street, 

Oswestry, 

Shropshire SY11 1QG 

Tel: (01691) 652126/654928 

Fax: (01691) 670047 

Email: owenstravel@compuserve.com 

www.owenstravel.co.uk 

CONSORTIUM O 

OUR OPERATORS 

BRANCH OFFICES: 

Travelmaster Holidays 

2 Shortbridge Street, Newtown Powys. 

Tel: (01686) 626576 


19 Broad Street, Welshpool, Powys. 

Tel: (01938) 554500 


2 The Bullring, Whitchurch, Shropshire. 

Tel: (01948) 662361 

Wrexham: 01978 330003 

Shrewsbury: 01743 770001

Owens S2010 Brochure_v06:____ - Owens Travel

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