Group Travel Today 6 2025

GroupTravel Today
Volume 18 Issue 6 2025
Paris for Groups
A city that knows how to handle a crowd
Planning 2026
Trends, tactics and timing for the year
ahead
AGTO
London
Fresh ideas for
group-friendly itineraries
Spotlight Leeds Castle
Space and Exploration
Out-of-this-world
experiences for groups
Destination Delight
Loughborough’s unexpected charm
Planning 2026
Supplement
Great British
Heritage
Stories that bring
places
to life
Johnson’s
Journal:
Norway Where
Mountains Meet
the Midnight
Sun

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Scarborough

Comment
Contents
reminder that magazines are curated
spaces. Not noisy. Not frantic. Just a
News
4
place to sit, to leaf, to notice. In a
world of flickering screens and ads that
disappear before you’ve quite
AGTO
6
understood them, that kind of
attention feels almost luxurious.
Paris for Groups
8
Our central feature takes us to Paris for
There’s something quietly reassuring
about sitting down with a print
magazine. The small ritual of it. The
turning of pages. The sense that, for a
few minutes, the world can be held at
arm’s length while thoughts arrange
themselves. That feels especially
relevant now, as policy, prices and
priorities seem to change with the
weather.
This issue lands at a moment when the
Chancellor’s latest plans are starting to
ripple through the travel world. The
proposal to give local and regional
authorities the power to introduce
overnight levies on hotel stays has
stirred debate across the sector. For
some, it promises better-funded
destinations, improved infrastructure
and better experiences at ground level.
For others, it raises the familiar worry
that even modest extra costs can
quietly reshape demand, especially for
price-sensitive groups.
Groups, a city that, against all odds,
understands how to behave in a crowd.
It absorbs numbers without losing
poetry, accommodates timetables
alongside wandering, and somehow
makes even the busiest squares feel like
part of the theatre rather than an
obstruction.
Johnson’s Journal travels north to
Norway, through Bergen and into the
surrounding landscapes, where light
changes by the minute and the air has
a way of slowing the breath. Back in
England, our Destination Delight pauses
in Loughborough, a town that doesn’t
shout, but rewards those who listen.
You’ll also find Great British Heritage, a
thoughtful London feature, a close look
at Leeds Castle, a journey into Space
and Exploration, and, finally, our
Planning 2026 Supplement not just as a
calendar exercise, but as an invitation
to think more strategically about what
groups will want, need and value in the
Johnson’s Journal
Loughborough
Great British Heritage
London
Spotlight on Leeds Castle
Space and Exploration
Planning 2026
10
16
18
20
22
24
27
“Paul Harper, commercial director at
years ahead.
Daish’s Holidays, said the levy would
add further pressure to an already
stretched hospitality sector. “
However you read this at a desk, on a
train, or in a quiet corner we hope it
keeps you company and inspired.
He argued the UK cannot be fairly
compared with European destinations
that benefit from lower VAT, keeping
Merry Chrismas and happy New Year
see you on the other side
overall visitor costs more competitive.
He warned a UK tourist tax would push
Nigel
up prices, add inflationary pressure and
increase strain on businesses facing
high operating costs.
Harper also said coastal and seasonal
destinations remain under-supported,
with a lack of investment in transport,
digital infrastructure and local
regeneration risking long-term decline.
Beau Business Media Group Ltd Publishing House,
Windrush, Ash Lane, Birmingham, B48 7TS
email: beaubusinessmedia@gmail.com
Tel: 0121 445 6961
Inside this issue, the Association of
Group Travel Organisers offers a
thoughtful defence of print itself a
Media Partner
3

News
Group Travel Today
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RHS Malvern Spring Festival
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gardens, indoor plant
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Tickets for the RHS Malvern
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Blueprints of Power: Vanbrugh, Rivalry and the Theatre
In 2026, Blueprints of Power
turns the spotlight on Sir
John Vanbrugh, a man who
treated architecture like a
full-contact sport and
somehow got away with it.
The exhibition dives into his
rivalries, ambitions and
theatrical mind, charting
his journey from
mischievous playwright to
the grand operator behind
some of Britain’s most
swaggering buildings.
Expect immersive rooms,
rare archives and
costumes that whisper of
powdered wigs, political
intrigue and nights that
probably went on far too
long.Vanbrugh was never a
quiet man. Nicknamed the
rockstar of the English
Baroque, he built with
drama, shadow and light,
using stone the way others
use poetry.
His tercentenary
celebrations, backed by
the National Lottery
Heritage Fund and led by
the Georgian Group, will
stretch across landmarks
including Blenheim, Castle
Howard, Seaton Delaval
Hall, Grimsthorpe,
Kimbolton and Stowe,
turning 2026 into a national
stage for his genius.
www.blenheimpalace.com
/whatson/events/blueprint
s-of-power.html
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ESCORTED TOURS

Group Travel Today
AGTO MATTERS
The move to digital is
affecting almost every
part of life. But as
Wendy Hartley-Scarff,
chief executive of
AGTO, the Association
for Group Travel
Organisers, notes,
there’s still a place for
the printed holiday tour
brochure.
could see from the
branding on the
envelope, and from the
feel of the envelope,
that it was probably a
holiday brochure.
Opening it and yes,
inside was indeed a
holiday brochure, but
from a tour operator I
hadn’t travelled with for
some time. But I had
some spare time and
my coffee still needed
drinking.
It was only when I
checked my watch a
while later that I
realised I had just spent
the best part of an hour
leafing through the
brochure on my PC? I
realised I hadn’t, even
though the PC has a
large monitor. That got
me thinking about how
many people engage
with brochures today.
It’s likely that many will
sit in front of their PC, or,
at a push, look at them
on a phone or tablet.
Of course, what I might
describe as ‘younger
people’ probably don’t
look at brochures at all
any more. Their
inspiration for
destinations and
holiday experiences
come from social
media, YouTube or any
It's clearly a
generational thing, but
while I’m also happy to
have a look online for
ideas and that
aforementioned
inspiration, leafing
through the printed
brochure, with
everything laid out in
front of me, does seem
an easier way to
understand what I
might like. Everything is
there in front of you.
Online, the need to
scroll, or zoom in and
out, or spend time
trying to find that page
just now that had
caught your eye, seems
altogether too much of
a faff.
Our AGTO Partners, the
coach and tour
operators who
specialise in tours for
group travel organisers,
usually offer both a
printed brochure and
the online option. That
makes sense, and long
may it continue.
The large envelop
landed on my mat with
a thud. I was sitting at
my kitchen table having
a well-earned cuppa
when the noise at my
front door made me
jump.
Investigating what had
caused the disruption I
found the package. I
pages! The brochure
had captured my
attention with its mix of
places I’d already been
to, and places that,
well, you know, one day
I might get there!
But then I had a
thought. When was the
last time I spent so long
looking through a
number of online
channels. They probably
don’t book on the types
of holiday that the
traditional printed
brochures offer. Instead,
if it’s a touring holiday
they want, there are
many online travel
agents ready and
willing to offer
suggestions.
6

Daish’s From
Island Roots to
National Reach
Daish’s story is one of
gentle evolution rather than
revolution. “During the 1980s
the business really took off,”
recalls Paul. “Coach groups
were growing in popularity,
and Mrs Wilson saw the
opportunity. By 1985 she had
purchased her own
coaches and started
running tours herself.” Those
instincts proved spot on. By
the time others were
scaling back, Daish’s was
rolling forward, steadily
expanding its network of
hotels and routes across
the country.
Today, Daish’s operates 12
hotels across 10
destinations in England and
Wales, including the grand
Imperial Hotel in Eastbourne
and the much-loved
Esplanade in Scarborough.
Their 35-strong fleet of
luxury coaches, resplendent
in white and gold, collect
guests from 18 different
pick-up points across
Britain, from Yorkshire to
Cornwall. “Guests can also
choose to self-drive,” adds
Sam Wilson, Jeanne’s son
and now Head of Estates,
who runs the business
alongside his brother
George Brown, Managing
Director. “Our goal is simple:
to continue Mum’s legacy —
offering affordable breaks
with great food, live
entertainment, and a
genuine family welcome.”
That welcome extends to
every detail. “We run 32
Mercedes Tourismos and
three Volvos,” says Paul.
“They’re designed for
comfort from the very first
stop, using well-connected
meeting points that fit our
ethos of relaxation. The
journey should be part of
the holiday, not just the bit
in between.”
The Joy of Staying in Britain
Daish’s has always been
proudly British. Their holidays
champion the joys of the
homegrown seaside
promenades, piers, and a
hint of nostalgia wrapped in
the comfort of modern
hospitality. “Our most
popular destination is
Eastbourne,” admits Sam,
“but every one of our
locations has its loyal
regulars. Guests come back
year after year because
they know exactly what to
expect great service and a
stress-free break.”
Daish’s also plays a quiet
but important role behind
the scenes. “We host up to
£4 million of business each
year from other operators,”
says Paul, referring to
partnerships with
InterChoice Holidays,
Dunwood Travel, and
Shearings. “It keeps our
hotels thriving and the
business connected to the
wider travel community.”
And for Paul, when he’s not
juggling schedules or finetuning
operations, there’s
always time for a different
kind of ride – his Triumph
Bonneville. “Just me and the
open road,” he grins, “a
single-seater version of
what we do best.”
Asked what he’d change if
given the power for a day,
Paul doesn’t hesitate.
“Social care,” he says. “It’s
something we all need to
look after – each other.” It’s
a sentiment that feels
entirely in tune with Daish’s
itself: a business built on
care, comfort, and a belief
that the best of Britain is still
worth touring.
Daish’s –
The Heartbeat of the Great
British Holiday
Abbey Lawn Hotel
Scarborough Road, Torquay,
TQ2 5UQ
Telephone: 01803 294373
www.daishs.com/hotels/
abbey-lawn-hotel
Barrowfield Hotel
Hilgrove Road, Newquay,
TR7 2QY
Telephone: 01637 878177
www.daishs.com/hotels/
barrowfield-hotel
Bournemouth Sands Hotel
2 West Cliff Gardens,
Bournemouth, BH2 5HR
Telephone: 01202 553863
www.daishs.com/hotels/
bournemouth-sands-hotel
County Hotel
Station Road, Kendal,
LA9 6BT
Telephone: 01539 722461
www.daishs.com/hotels/
county-hotel
Daish’s Hotel
81 High Street, Shanklin, Isle
of Wight, PO37 6NP
Telephone: 01983 862274
www.daishs.com/hotels/
daishs-hotel
Devonshire Hotel
Park Hill Road, Torquay, TQ1
2DY
Telephone: 01803 294147
www.daishs.com/hotels/
devonshire-hotel
Esplanade Hotel
Belmont Road,
Scarborough, YO11 2AA
Telephone: 01723 360382
www.daishs.com/hotels/
esplanade-hotel
Imperial Hotel Blackpool
North Promenade,
Blackpool, FY1 2HB
Telephone: 01253 623971
www.daishs.com/hotels/
imperial-hotel
Imperial Hotel Eastbourne
Devonshire Place,
Eastbourne, BN21 4AH
Telephone: 01323 735001
www.daishs.com/hotels/
imperial-hotel-eastbourne
Prince Regent Hotel
139 The Esplanade,
Weymouth, DT4 7NR
Telephone: 01305 782277
www.daishs.com/hotels/
prince-regent-hotel
Russell Hotel
135 The Esplanade,
Weymouth, DT4 7NG
Telephone: 01305 774877
www.daishs.com/hotels/
russell-hotel
Somerset Hotel
St George’s Road,
Llandudno, LL30 2LF
Telephone: 01492 876555
www.daishs.com/hotels/
somerset-hotel
7

Group Travel Today
Paris for Groups: A City That
Knows How to Behave in a Crowd
IM_photo shutterstoc
quieten when faced with
that pond. Not because
they’ve seen it in a
thousand books, but
because it looks subtly
unreal in person, as if the
air itself has been lightly
painted. The gardens
absorb people well. They’re
wide, open, and allow
small clusters to form
naturally. Coaches can
park, cafés can cope, and
nobody feels rushed.
carrying something that
feels heavier than
souvenirs.
Ekaterina Pokrovsky
Auvers-sur-Oise offers a
Paris has been dealing with
groups for far longer than
most European cities. It has
absorbed revolutions,
tourists, marching armies,
fashion weeks,
honeymooners, football
fans and school trips with
the same vaguely amused
expression. It does not
panic. It adjusts its scarf
and carries on.
For group organisers, this
matters. The city does not
fight your coach. It
tolerates your timetable. It
even has a kind of civic
grace about large
numbers of people arriving
with lanyards and
matching fleeces. The
trick, of course, is knowing
how to turn a famously
romantic solo city into
something that works
when you’ve got forty
people, two headcounts
and someone who
wanders.
The good news is that Paris
runs on layers. What you
see at street level is only
half the story. The quieter,
stranger, slightly off-centre
experiences tend to be
where groups remember
the trip, rather than merely
photograph it.
Day Trips That Make Paris
Feel Bigger
The real pleasure for
groups isn’t staying within
the périphérique. It’s
stepping just far enough
outside the city that things
soften and stretch.
Giverny is the obvious
choice, but “obvious”
doesn’t mean dull. Monet’s
house is less a museum and
more a controlled
hallucination of colour and
calm. Even the most travelweary
group tends to
very different rhythm. This is
van Gogh territory, but
without the gift-shop glare.
The church he painted still
stands with its strange,
sloping calm, and the
cemetery where he lies is a
short, reflective walk.
Groups work well here
because silence doesn’t
feel awkward; it feels
moulded into the
landscape. You can split
people into smaller guided
walks and let them drift
back to the coach
Ekaterina Pokrovsky
Then there’s Chantilly. If
Versailles is theatre,
Chantilly is control. The
château sits with that cool
confidence of somewhere
that doesn’t need to shout.
The Great Stables, the
grounds, and the famous
cream may look indulgent,
but for groups it is
practical. Wide pathways,
manageable distances,
and a sense that you can
breathe without being
shoved through a gift shop
every twelve seconds.
8

Group Travel Today
Fontainebleau is another
strong choice. Less famous
than Versailles, but in many
ways more satisfying for
groups. Fewer queues,
more space, and interiors
that don’t feel like a cattle
drive. It works brilliantly for
coach groups because it
feels prestigious without
being punishing.
Paris Itself: Where Groups
Don’t Fall Apart
shops that invite curiosity
without chaos. You can
feed a group through in
waves and nobody feels
abandoned.
Six Free (And Slightly
Unusual) Things Groups Can
Do in Paris
Free activities are often
treated as filler. In Paris,
they can be the spine of
your itinerary.
Inside the city, Paris can
feel like a maze for
organisers. But it doesn’t
have to. The trick is to stop
treating it as a checklist
and start treating it as a
series of moods.
The Île Saint-Louis still feels
lived-in. Groups can
wander without being
overwhelmed, and the
rhythm here is gentle
enough to stop people
scattering. You can
organise a slow circuit on
foot, finish near the river,
and everything feels
deliberate rather than
forced.
Canal Saint-Martin is
criminally underused by
group tours. It’s Paris at
elbow-level. Locals drinking
coffee, bridges lifting
slowly, reflections wobbling
in the water. It’s flat, linear
and calming. Perfect for
groups who don’t want
endless stairs and
relentless monuments.
Then there are the covered
passages. Passage des
Panoramas, Galerie
Vivienne, Passage Jouffroy.
These are gifts to
organisers. Dry, contained,
and full of strange, small
1. Watch the City from the
Steps of Sacré-Cœur
Not just the view, but the
theatre. Set the group on
the steps, give them time,
and tell them to simply
observe. Paris performs
constantly here. Street
musicians, couples arguing
in whispers, children
chasing pigeons. It costs
nothing and feels richer
than most paid
experiences.
2. Visit Père Lachaise Like a
Storybook
Forget the famous graves
for a moment. Give smaller
groups a simple scavengerstyle
challenge: find the
most beautifully overgrown
tomb, the strangest
inscription, the most
peaceful corner. It turns
the cemetery into a quiet
game and creates stories
people remember.
3. Walk the Coulée Verte
René-Dumont
This elevated park runs
above old railway lines and
offers a completely
different Paris. It’s green,
narrow, and oddly intimate.
Groups love it because it
feels like a secret even
though it isn’t. The line
format keeps people
together without herding.
4. Discover Street Art Along
the Seine and Belleville
Street art in Paris isn’t noise,
it’s texture. Organisers can
create a loose route where
groups hunt for the largest
mural, the cleverest stencil,
or the piece that makes
them stop. It costs nothing
and gets even reluctant
walkers moving.
5. Cross Pont des Arts at
Dusk
Yes, the love locks are
joyfull shutterstock
largely gone, which has
made the bridge better,
not worse. At dusk it
becomes oddly quiet for a
central crossing. Set groups
the task of standing still,
really still, for one full
minute. It sounds silly. It
works frighteningly well.
6. Step Inside Saint-
Eustache Church
Tourists miss it. Groups
shouldn’t. It’s free, central,
and so unexpectedly large
it produces genuine
surprise. The modern art
inside sits awkwardly
against the old stone,
which makes it interesting
rather than reverent. Good
WDG Photo shutterstock
9

Iakov Kalinin shutterstock
10

11

Group Travel Today
guides can turn this into a
short, thought provoking
stop rather than a yawnfest.
Food Without the Fuss
Feeding groups in Paris can
be a logistical opera. The
mistake is chasing
“authentic”. For groups, you
want reliable, flexible, and
vaguely theatrical.
Bouillon-style restaurants
are perfect. Big rooms, fast
service, traditional food
without the ceremony.
They can turn tables
quickly and don’t flinch at
large numbers.
Markets like Marché des
Enfants Rouges offer
controlled chaos. Different
stalls, central seating, and
a sense of choice without
actual disorder. Groups
can split and reconvene
without panic.
Bakeries should not be
treated as pit stops. They
should be programmed. A
timed pastry stop
becomes a highlight rather
than a scramble.
Why Paris Works for Groups
When Other Cities
Pretend To
Paris understands ritual. It
understands routines. It
understands procession.
This makes it unusually
cooperative for organised
travel.
Distances are logical.
Public transport is layered
and legible. Toilets are a
challenge, yes, but that
just forces discipline and
planning, which any good
organiser secretly enjoys.
The city also respects
stillness. This is rare. Rome
doesn’t allow it. London
barely tolerates it. Paris has
benches that face rivers,
walls that catch light, and
gardens that encourage
silence. Groups don’t need
constant entertainment.
They need controlled
breathing space.
How to Make It Work
Without Running Yourself
Into the Ground
Build in drift time. Honest,
unstructured wandering
where people aren’t
pushed but aren’t
abandoned.
Use Paris as a sequence of
small atmospheres rather
than headline attractions.
A bridge, a garden, a
passage, a square. These
are easier to manage than
icons.
Base your itinerary on loops
12

Group Travel Today
rather than reverent. Good
guides can turn this into a
short, thought provoking
stop rather than a yawnfest.
Food Without the Fuss
Feeding groups in Paris can
be a logistical opera. The
mistake is chasing
“authentic”. For groups, you
want reliable, flexible, and
vaguely theatrical.
Bouillon-style restaurants
are perfect. Big rooms, fast
service, traditional food
without the ceremony.
They can turn tables
quickly and don’t flinch at
large numbers.
Markets like Marché des
Enfants Rouges offer
controlled chaos. Different
stalls, central seating, and
a sense of choice without
actual disorder. Groups
can split and reconvene
without panic.
Bakeries should not be
treated as pit stops. They
should be programmed. A
timed pastry stop
becomes a highlight rather
than a scramble.
Why Paris Works for Groups
When Other Cities
Pretend To
Paris understands ritual. It
understands routines. It
understands procession.
This makes it unusually
cooperative for organised
travel.
Distances are logical.
Public transport is layered
and legible. Toilets are a
challenge, yes, but that
just forces discipline and
planning, which any good
organiser secretly enjoys.
The city also respects
stillness. This is rare. Rome
doesn’t allow it. London
barely tolerates it. Paris has
benches that face rivers,
walls that catch light, and
gardens that encourage
silence. Groups don’t need
constant entertainment.
They need controlled
breathing space.
How to Make It Work
Without Running Yourself
Into the Ground
Luciano Mortula - LGM
13

Group Travel Today
Pauline and Ken: two spirited adventurers whose shared
journeys have sparked countless stories, quiet laughter,
memorable encounters and endless inspiration,
encouraging others to travel more boldly and live more
curiously.
to the Norwegian composer
Edvard Grieg’s home at
Troldhaugen, just 10km south
of Bergen. His actual house
is closed for renovation, but
we were still able to go into
the museum and wander
down through the wooded
areas to his composing hut
NORWAY
Nothing really prepares you
for the scenery in Norway. It’s
a land of waterfalls, high
rugged peaks, forests and
fjords with scenic historic
villages. The Norwegians are
friendly and most speak
excellent English. The food
we ate was good with the
smorgasbord (buffet) food
at both our hotels excellent.
In fact the breakfast at our
first hotel, The Clarion
Admiral in Bergen, was
declared the best hotel
breakfast we have ever had;
and at Kviknes the evening
meal was so extensive we
were seriously spoilt for
choice. Whilst you expect all
the restaurants to be serving
fish in Bergen there was
plenty of choice for all
tastes.
Ken and I have been to
Norway twice, once in 1998
on an extensive coach tour
from Oslo up to Kristiansund
and then with the group
aboard a Hurtigruten
Bryggen Bergen
coastal ferry from Tromso to
Kirkenes and back. For this
tour we wanted to explore
Bergen and so booked 3
nights there.
Bergen has so much to offer.
We started the first full day
of the holiday with a guided
3 hour orientation coach
and walking tour. Our guide
was Morten Nystad, who
lives in Bergen and had
worked for many years in the
Petro-Chemical industry. He
was therefore able to tell us
how the revenues from this
industry have shaped
Norway by funding its
pensions and providing
electricity. Our hotel was on
the waterfront looking
across to the historic area of
Bryggen with its brightly
painted wooden buildings.
We did wonder whether we
would be disturbed at night
by the ferries coming in and
out, but no; the ferries are
electric powered, as are
many of the cars and buses.
The following day we went
beside lake Nordås. His and
his wife’s graves are nearby.
We were also able to enjoy
a 30 minute piano recital,
which can be booked at 12
or 2pm daily. The tickets for
the museum and recital also
allowed us to go to the Kole
Art Galleries in Bergen
during the afternoon. We
had asked that our itinerary
included the afternoons and
evenings at leisure. For
groups the hotel only had a
3 course, one choice, menu
which we had on the
evening we arrived. This
worked very well and whilst
Norway has a reputation for
everything being expensive,
it was still possible to find
good food at very
reasonable prices. Morten
had told us it was best to
book for evening meals
especially from 6.30pm
onwards. For the first
evening Ken and I found a
charming little restaurant
called Pygmalion not far
from the Fish Market – a 5
minute walk from our hotel.
We splashed out the second
night at The Unicorn, a fish
restaurant in Bryggen with a
very good reputation.
Greigs Composing Hut
A three course meal with a
bottle of local apple juice
cost £75 per person. The
Norwegian government
apply very high taxes on
alcohol. The cost of a bottle
of wine – so my group told
me – starts at £60. One of
the highlights for some of
the group was the cable car
ride up Mount Ulriken, which
can be magical at sunset.
Bergen, however, is visited
by up to four cruise ships a
day so, in the season, the
queues during the day to
get on the cable cars can
be very long.
Day four and we set off with
Morten and our coach driver
Tvinder Waterfall
14

Group Travel Today
The Long and Winding Hairpin Road
Rolf for the next part of our
adventure. We were heading
for our second hotel, The
Kviknes Hotel at Balastrand
on the Sognefjorden. It was
a 4-hour drive broken by a
stop at the Tvinder Waterfall
and a wonderful fjord cruise
from Gudvangen to Flåm on
the Aurlandsfjord. Morten
advised us to sit at the back
of the boat with its big
picture windows and it was
good advice. He also
pointed out the village of
Undreal, known for its
traditional goat cheeses.
The population is 99 and the
number of goats nearly 500.
From Flåm we travelled
through some amazing
scenery and were then told
that there would be even
better views the next day.
The 18th century wooden
built Kviknes Hotel was on
the banks of the Fjord, but
groups are put in the
modern concrete block
behind. Great views from
upper floors whether you
are at the back – the village,
mountains, St Olafs church
(the tourist church built in
the Stave Church style) and
side views of the fjord, or
the front - looking directly
over the fjord. BUT those at
count of the hair-pin bends
leading to the top and were
astonished to look down on
the route travelled when we
reached the viewpoint. The
Boyabreen Glacier, when
seen from the viewpoint, has
shrunk by almost two-thirds
over the past 30 years
through global warming.
Happily, the nearby museum
has a video of the whole
glacier and a very good
exhibition. Ken and I went
outside and up onto the
roof of the museum for
another look at the glacier.
The next day’s Flåm Railway
trip was one many were
eagerly anticipating. And it
didn’t disappoint. You stop
at a waterfall on the way up
Group at Boyabreen Glacier Viewpoint
to Myrdal where ‘Huldra’ –
the back on floor 2 can find
the Wood Nymph – appears
themselves looking at cars
in the distance and sings, so
parked just outside their
cameras flashing nonstop.
window. From this base we
There is a museum at the
now had a couple of days
back of one of the shops at
of tours. The first was
Flåm showing the history of
travelling the Glacial Route
the railway. Well worth
along the Gaularfjell High
visiting.
Mountain Road. We lost
Our last day of touring, as
we headed back to Bergen
for one more night, was via
the open-air Sogn Folk
Museum. Here there were 30
historical buildings ranging
from the Middle Ages to the
20th century. The Visitor
Centre has three floors with
exhibits related to
agriculture, crafts, textiles
and food and drink. We were
lucky to encounter reenactors
in some of the
houses in the short time we
were there. Our next stop
was at the Bogund Stave
Church, one of the best
preserved and most iconic
Borgund Stave Church
stave churches in Norway. Its
most distinctive features are
its roof structure and
decorative elements
including dragon heads. A
local guide really enhances
this visit.
The drive back to Bergen
was via Voss and the 24km
Laerdal tunnel, the longest
road tunnel in Europe. These
tunnels, and Norway has
many, have made travelling
so much easier and quicker.
The second phase of the
holiday was tiring as we had
a lot of travelling both by
road and ferry. However, it
really was worth it and
made even more
memorable by our
knowledgeable and very
helpful guide Morten and
the safe careful driving of
Rolf our coach driver. Our
thanks must also go to the
staff at Norman Allen Group
Travel who put the itinerary
together.
15

Group Travel Today
This new year why not discover a new
destination to delight your groups?
Loughborough in the heart
of Charnwood has
invested in their group
offer over the last few
years which means it’s
perfectly located for a
great day out for your
group.
Ideally located just off
junction 23 of the M1,
there’s convenient town
centre parking, a meet
and greet service, guided
walks around the historic
Carillon tower, the iconic
Hope Bell, Charnwood
Museum and award
winning Queen’s Park.
This bustling university town
has a range of daily
markets from the
traditional markets which
have been taking place for
over 800 years to Artisan
craft and vintage markets
and the newest addition
the Love Loughborough
Gardeners’ Fair.
The Love Loughborough
Gardeners’ Fair takes
place on the first Sunday
of the month between
April – November and has a
range of horticulturalists
and plant growers who
provide expert advice on
when to buy and plant to
improve your outdoor
space. There are also
artisan craft makers, food
and drink stalls and live
entertainment, so the
perfect way to spend a
spring day out.
16

Group Travel Today
Loughborough is also home
to Taylor’s Bellfoundry
Museum, the UK’s last
working Bellfoundry. As
well as the fascinating
museum where the rich
history of bell making
comes to life, you can
book your group onto a
guided tour of the foundry
to see craftsmanship in
action and learn the
fascinating story behind
the Taylors bells that ring
out across the world.
There’s also a huge and
varied programme of
shows and events at
Loughborough Town Hall
whether it’s award winning
pantos, Anton Du Bek or
live comedy.
And of course no trip to
Loughborough is complete
without a trip on the Great
Central Railway. Step back
in time on a trip on the only
double track steam train in
Britain and enjoy a
delicious afternoon tea or
Sunday lunch whilst you
travel through the rolling
Charnwood countryside.
To find out more and to
request a bespoke
itinerary for your group
contact groups@discover
charnwood.co.uk
17

Group Travel Today
Great British Heritage
There’s something quietly reassuring about arriving together, stepping off a coach into a place that has
been waiting for centuries, where history feels less like a lesson and more like a shared moment.
Westminster Abbey
Step Inside a Living
Masterpiece
Westminster Abbey is more
than a landmark, it's a
living masterpiece and a
powerful window into 1,000
years of British history. From
royal coronations and
weddings to daily worship
and national
remembrance, every
corner of this awe-inspiring
Gothic church holds a
story.
Groups seeking a deeply
enriching experience will
find Westminster Abbey an
unmissable highlight.
Explore the legendary
Poets’ Corner, walk past
the tombs of monarchs,
and marvel at the intricate
stonework that has
witnessed centuries of
faith, art, and ceremony.
A highlight for group
visitors is the Queen’s
Diamond Jubilee Galleries.
Located more than 50 feet
above the nave, these
galleries offer panoramic
views of the Abbey and
the Houses of Parliament.
The galleries provide a
unique perspective on the
Abbey's architecture and
history, showcasing over
300 objects illuminating
Westminster Abbey's rich
past.
This UNESCO World
Heritage Site offers
tailored group experiences
with multilingual Blue
Badge Guides, ensuring
visitors from around the
world feel welcomed and
inspired. With excellent
access in a central London
location, it’s the perfect
addition to itineraries
focused on heritage,
architecture, or spiritual
journeys.
Discover why this sacred
space continues to
captivate hearts and
minds across generations.
Book your group visit today
westminsterabbey.org/groups
groups@westminsterabbey.org
Syon Park
Just a stone’s throw from
central London, Syon
House offers groups a
captivating glimpse into
centuries of royal history.
Once the site of Syon
Abbey, it played a
dramatic role in Tudor
intrigue: it was here that
Lady Jane Grey was told
she would be queen in
1553, only to lose both the
crown and her life nine
days later. The estate later
passed to the powerful
Percy family, the Dukes of
Northumberland, who still
reside there today.
King Henry VIII’s body
famously rested at Syon
overnight on its journey to
Windsor an episode
steeped in legend, said to
have fulfilled a prophecy
of divine retribution. Today,
groups can tour Robert
Adam’s opulent interiors,
wander through grand
state rooms once graced
by royalty, and explore 200
acres of landscaped
parkland. Syon House
remains one of London’s
most atmospheric stately
homes, where royal drama
lingers in every gilded
corner.
www.syonpark.co.uk
18

Step inside a
Book your visit westminster-abbey.org
living masterpiece
Book your group visit today
westminster-abbey.org/groups groups@westminster-abbey.org

Group Travel Today
London
London welcomes groups like an old stage set suddenly brought to life — familiar yet
endlessly surprising — where every corner seems to offer a shared discovery and the
satisfying hum of being somewhere important together.
London isn’t a place you
attack with a timetable
and a whistle. It’s a city
that works best when
approached gently,
allowing it to unfold in
small, rich layers. For group
organisers, this is its real
strength. You don’t need to
force impact. You just need
to provide the right
moments to pause, gather,
and look again.
Covent Garden is often
the natural beginning. It
gives groups space to
breathe and somewhere to
land emotionally.
Musicians, cafés,
performers and street
theatre create a sense of
theatre without pressure. It
feels like an arrival, not a
queue.
At its heart sits Jubilee
Market, quietly confident
and full of story.
For group organisers
seeking a central London
stop that blends heritage,
character and shopping
appeal, Jubilee Market in
Covent Garden offers a
compelling addition to
itineraries complete with
royal credentials.
Its roots stretch back to
1897, when the original
Jubilee Hall was built to
mark Queen Victoria’s
Diamond Jubilee. Nearly a
century later, following an
extensive restoration, the
redeveloped market was
formally opened by Her
Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
on 5 August 1987. A
commemorative plaque
still marks the occasion,
giving the market an
enduring royal seal of
approval.
Today, Jubilee Market is a
vibrant, all-weather
destination set under a
striking glass and iron roof.
The covered hall hosts
different themed markets
throughout the week:
antiques on Mondays, arts
and crafts from Tuesday to
Thursday, and general
market stalls Friday to
Sunday. Groups will find
everything from vintage
treasures and handmade
jewellery to Londonthemed
souvenirs, books
and art.
With its historic
architecture, royal heritage
and mix of independent
traders, Jubilee Market
adds depth and colour to
any Covent Garden visit,
offering a distinctive
shopping experience just
moments from the Royal
Opera House and Covent
Garden Piazza.
What makes Jubilee
Market so effective for
groups is the way time
softens there. People
naturally slow down. They
gather and drift. They
reconnect without
needing to be told.
www.jubileemarket.co.uk
From here, one of the most
elegant ways to move a
group through London is by
water. A Thames cruise
changes the relationship
people have with the city.
The pace drops. The noise
thins. The wide sweep of
the river gives breathing
space that streets rarely
offer.
From the river, landmarks
arrive gracefully rather
than demanding attention.
Cruises connect
Westminster, Tower and
Greenwich, allowing
groups to travel and
sightsee in the same quiet
motion. Comfortable
seating, commentary and
refreshments make it ideal
for mixed-ability groups.
City Cruises at
www.citycruises.com
offers sightseeing and
dining experiences on the
river. Thames Clippers at
[www.thamesclippers.com]
(http://www.thamesclipper
s.com) provides fast,
scheduled river services
that work beautifully for
structured itineraries.
Crown River Cruise at
[www.crownrivercruise.co.u
k](http://www.crownrivercr
uise.co.uk) specialises in
private group sailings with
tailored routes and
onboard hosting.
Back on land, London
becomes something softer.
Parks open up the day.
Bridges widen the view.
Museums work best when
treated as invitations
rather than obligations.
For groups, London isn’t
about ticking off sights. It’s
about shared stillness
between them. That slow,
collective rhythm is what
makes the city
memorable, long after the
coach has turned for
home.
20

Award-wining Sightseeing &
Dining Boat Trips in London & York
Group Bookings & Private Hire Available
Direct Groups: 10% Discount and one free place for every 20 passengers
0207 7400 400 (Option 2) | email: ukgroups@citycruises.com
www.citycruises.com

Group Travel Today
Spotlight on ... Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle rises gently from its lake like a thought half-remembered, perfectly suited to
groups who want history without noise, beauty without effort, and the quiet pleasure of
sharing something that feels unhurried.
clear arrival points and the
option of timed itineraries
allow organisers to
manage their day with
confidence, while on-site
cafés and restaurants offer
relaxed spaces and groupfriendly
menus to keep
everyone refreshed and
comfortable.
Daily falconry displays
bring energy and drama to
any visit, while the castle’s
seasonal programme
ensures there is always
something fresh to
experience throughout the
Leeds Castle in Kent is
designed to entertain and
amaze every single day,
making it a standout
choice for group
organisers seeking a
destination that blends
spectacular history with
effortless enjoyment. With
more than 900 years of
stories woven into its walls,
the castle offers a rich,
immersive experience that
appeals to all interests and
ages, while also providing
the kind of thoughtful
organisation that makes
group visits feel calm,
smooth and well
supported.
Groups can explore the
refined glamour of Lady
Baillie’s 1930s country
retreat, beautifully
preserved to showcase the
elegance and social buzz
of the era. Beyond the
castle rooms, the 500
acres of grounds provide
space to wander, pause,
and take in sweeping
views, lakeside paths, and
themed gardens.
Dedicated coach parking,
year. Seasonal decorations
and themed events add
extra charm, whether
visiting during spring
blooms, summer
celebrations, autumn
colour or winter
22

Group Travel Today
setting that feels both
personal and memorable.
To add something truly
special, groups can opt for
a Meet the Owls
encounter for just £5 per
person. This up-close
experience pairs perfectly
with major events such as
The Queen’s Joust or the
renowned Leeds Castle
Concert, creating a
memorable day out that
feels both distinctive and
thoughtfully curated for
group visitors, with
attentive staff on hand
throughout the visit to
ensure everything runs
smoothly from arrival to
departure.
illuminations, creating a
sense that no two visits are
ever quite the same.
Leeds Castle introduced
its Private “Talk & Teas”
events—an exclusive offer
designed with pre-booked
groups firmly in mind. Held
in the atmospheric
medieval Gatehouse,
these intimate sessions (for
up to 30 guests) combine
specialist talks with
indulgent refreshments.
Topics include “High
Society Secrets” and
“Leading Ladies of Leeds
Castle,” giving groups the
chance to peel back the
layers of the castle’s
remarkable past in a
Designed to entertain and amaze,
Leeds Castle offers groups over 900
years of history, seasonal gardens,
thrilling events, and unexpected
experiences for all ages.
Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent,
ME17 1PL
Tel No - 01622 767865
bookings@leeds-castle.co.uk
leeds-castle.com/groups
Unforgettable
Group Visits
at
Leeds castle
In Kent
Designed to entertain and amaze every day!
Groups enjoy over 900 years of history, seasonal gardens,
thrilling events & unexpected experiences.
23

Group Travel Today
Space and Exploration
There’s a peculiar thrill in standing together beneath the story of the stars, where silence feels
bigger, questions feel braver, and the shared sense of wonder gently pulls everyone beyond the
usual edges of thought.
Blast off on a winter
adventure to the stars and
uncover the mysteries of
space, right here on planet
Earth! Nestled in the heart
of the picturesque
Cheshire countryside,
Jodrell Bank, home to the
UK’s largest radio
telescope, offers an
unforgettable day out for
groups of all sizes and
interests.
walks, with the iconic
Lovell Telescope providing
a spectacular backdrop.
Warm up afterwards at
one of Jodrell’s locallysourced
cafés, where
delicious lunches,
homemade cakes, and
steaming hot drinks offer
the perfect comfort after
a day of discovery.
Keep an eye out for their
range of offers for adult
groups (10+ visitors),
including complimentary
tickets for organisers, free
coach and minibus
Blending cutting-edge
science with rich heritage,
visitors can explore
interactive exhibitions and
enjoy immersive shows in
the Space Dome that bring
the story of the stars to life.
Outside, 35 acres of scenic
grounds invite frosty winter
24

parking, and a £10 food
and beverage voucher for
drivers. Plus, enhance your
visit with one of their
expert-led Heritage Talks,
revealing more about
Jodrell Bank’s pioneering
role in radio astronomy
and its continuing
contribution to global
science!
Ready to put the stars at
your fingertips?
Jodrell Bank Centre for
Engagement is located
just off the A535, between
Chelford and Holmes
Chapel.
www.jodrellbank.net
Explore Time and Space at
the Royal Observatory
Greenwich
Experience the wonders of
the Royal Observatory
Greenwich, a must-visit for
group travellers. Stand on
the iconic Meridian Line,
marking the home of
Greenwich Mean Time
(GMT), and delve into the
rich history of this
renowned site. Nestled
within Greenwich’s
picturesque park, the
observatory offers a
fascinating journey through
time and space.
1. Meridian Line: Capture a
memorable selfie on the
famous line that divides
the eastern and western
hemispheres.
2. Scenic Views: Enjoy
breathtaking views of
London across Greenwich
Royal Park and the River
Thames.
3. Great Equatorial
Telescope: Marvel at the
UK’s largest historic
telescope, which has
provided astronomers with
incredible views of the
universe for over a century.
4. Scientific Discoveries:
Explore the contributions
of renowned scientists and
inventors with a
complimentary audio
guide.
5. Time Ball: Witness the
historic dropping of the
bright red Time Ball on top
of Flamsteed House, a
daily event at 1 pm.
6. Wren-designed Octagon
Room: Step into the
magnificent room
designed by Sir Christopher
Wren in 1675.
7. Harrison’s Timepieces:
Discover John Harrison’s
groundbreaking clocks
that solved the longitude
problem.
8. Camera Obscura: Be
mesmerised by a live
panorama of London seen
through this unique device.
9. Planetarium Shows:
Journey through space
with captivating shows
presented by astronomers
at the Peter Harrison
Planetarium.
10. Shepherd Gate Clock:
See the first clock to
display Greenwich Mean
Time to the public.
www.rmg.co.uk/royalobservatory
Take a group
trip to space!
*No rocket required...
Cheshire, Macclesfield, SK11 9DW
25

2027 T ours: T urning destina tions int o m emories
Explore England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland
Holiday wholesaler Ashley & Newey unveils its brand-new 2027 portfolio, with inspiring
coach holiday experiences across the UK and Ireland.
Established in 1988, we specialise in
delivering exceptional service and seamless
coach holiday experiences. Our portfolio
offers meticulously crafted itineraries, from
timeless favourites to brand new tours–with
more being added each week.
We provide comprehensive tour
management, including accommodation,
itineraries, ferries, room requests,
invoicing, marketing support, and driver
notes–taking care of every detail from
planning through to delivery. With access
to live availability and 24/7 online
booking, organising your next tour has
never been easier.
Spring
Autumn
Summer
Winter
Come meet us in person at the British
Tourism & Travel Show on 19th March
2026 in Birmingham, where we’ll be
showcasing our latest 2027 tours and
destinations!
Find us on Stand D34
Not a client y et? Scan th e QR code t o r egister with us
www.ashleynewey.co.uk 01325 389567 info@ashleynewey.co.uk

Planning 2026
Sulement

LOOKING FOR FRESH INSPIRATION
FOR YOUR GROUPS?
Explore the best of Britain and Ireland with over 200 exhibitors –
from coach-friendly destinations and attractions to group-ready
hotels. Meet the people behind the places, gather practical ideas,
and find inspiration to create unforgettable journeys.
REGISTER TODAY FOR FREE ENTRY
TOURISMSHOW.CO.UK
@TourismTravelShow btts_TourismShow british-tourism-travel-show
#BTTS26
Discover | Connect | Experience

Planning 2026
Becomes a calm, collective moment of looking ahead, where routes take shape around shared interests,
small practical decisions, and the steady pleasure of imagining what will be discovered together.
discovery to the group
travel community. With
more than 200 exhibitors
and 2,000 visitors
expected, it's the UK's
largest group travel trade
event – and the perfect
place to explore fresh
ideas.
national parks that
combine history, scenery
and outdoor adventure.
From across the Irish Sea,
Tourism Ireland will present
its vibrant cities, dramatic
coastlines and the warm
hospitality for which it is
renowned.
Daniel Thwaites and The Q
Hotels Collection - all
known for comfort, value
and group-friendly service.
BTTS 2026: Where Britain &
Ireland’s Best Stories Come
to Life
Every great group travel
experience begins with a
spark of inspiration.
Perhaps it's discovering
that a Victorian prison in
Oxford offers immersive
history your group will
never forget. Or realising
that Highland adventures
at Nevis Range bring a new
dimension to group
itineraries, with exciting
activities set against a
dramatic mountain
landscape.
Returning to the NEC
Birmingham on 19 March
2026, the British Tourism &
Travel Show (BTTS) brings
these moments of
Inspiration from every
corner
From the coastlines of
Cornwall to the Highlands
of Scotland, BTTS brings
together destinations and
experiences from across
the UK and Ireland, along
with selected highlights
from the near continent.
As you explore the show,
you’ll meet the teams from
Chorley and Blackpool to
Plymouth and the English
Riviera. Many more
destinations will also be
represented, ready to
share what their regions
offer for groups.
Visit Wales will showcase
the nation’s heritage and
landscapes, including over
600 castles and three
With Devon’s Top
Attractions, you can build
varied itineraries for your
group – taking in a river
cruise with Stuart Line,
quiet moments at Buckfast
Abbey or exploring the
industrial past of
Coldharbour Mill.
Attractions and stays that
groups love
Continuum Attractions
creates experiences with
broad appeal around the
country – whether it’s
exploring the hidden
streets of Edinburgh’s Real
Mary King’s Close, taking in
sweeping views from
Portsmouth’s Spinnaker
Tower, or enjoying family
adventures at Greenwood
Family Park in North Wales.
Heritage railways add
another layer, with the East
Lancashire, Gwili Steam
and South Devon Railways
offering journeys that
combine traditional charm
with scenic landscapes.
Accommodation
completes the picture,
with trusted names like
BWH Hotels Great Britain,
Classic Britain Hotels,
Beyond the UK
Inspiration doesn’t stop at
Britain’s shores. For groups
keen to broaden their
horizons, Fred. Olsen and
Ambassador Cruise Lines
provide ocean voyages
from UK ports, while
CroisiEurope offers a
slower pace of discovery
through Europe’s river
landscapes.
As Barinder Sangha from
Fly With B puts it: “I left
feeling excited about the
connections I made, and
for the new business I’ll be
sharing with my clients!”
Expert insights
The Theatre programme
enriches the experience
further, with free seminars
led by industry experts,
offering practical tools,
tips and trends to help
shape future group travel
plans.
29

Group Travel Today
A day of discovery
BTTS 2026 takes place on 19
March at the NEC
Birmingham. Bringing
together destinations,
attractions, suppliers and
industry insights, it remains
the key annual meeting
place for the group travel
community.
Every great group trip
starts with a spark of
inspiration – find yours at
BTTS 2026. Register today
and make sure your next
group adventure begins
here.
www.tourismshow.co.uk
Ludlow Market
In the rolling hills of
Shropshire, Ludlow
welcomes coach groups
with a blend of heritage,
shopping, and festive
charm. The town’s winter
celebrations fill its
medieval streets with light
and laughter, offering
visitors an atmospheric
escape steeped in
tradition.
Alongside its popular
markets, Ludlow hosts a
series of seasonal events
where local traders
showcase crafts, produce,
and gifts that capture the
spirit of the region.
Tuesdays in December are
known as “Tinsel Tuesdays,”
when shopfronts sparkle
with decorations, carols
drift through the air, and
mince pies make a
welcome appearance.
Coach-friendly and easily
accessible, Ludlow
provides convenient dropoff
points and wellplanned
routes, making it
ideal for groups. Cultural
highlights include the
Ludlow Museum at the
Buttercross, which often
features exhibitions
celebrating local heritage
and craftsmanship.
Whether you’re planning a
winter day trip or a festive
group tour, Ludlow offers
warmth, authenticity, and a
quintessentially English
seasonal experience — the
kind that lingers long after
the journey home.
www.ludlowmuseum.co.uk
Award Winning Group
Travel Made Easy
Alfa Holidays, offer one of
the most competitive and
rewarding group benefit
packages available.
Whether you’re organising
a getaway for a social
club, special interest
group, or simply a
gathering of friends, their
dedicated Groups
Department is here to
support you every step of
the way with expert
advice and a personalised
service.
Alfa Travel offers
EXCLUSIVE use of the
coach for groups of over
30 people.
With 25 fantastic hotels,
uniquely set up specifically
for group holidays, there’s
a perfect get away for
every group. Large dining
areas and lounges ensure
the group can relax
together and make the
most of their holiday.
Choose from 100’s of
holidays with exciting
excursions, or let the team
create an itinerary
specifically for you.
They know that
convenience is key when
managing a group, that’s
why they offer local pick
up points, or a centralised
collection point and direct
returns, no need to travel
through an interchange.
Just let the team know
what’s best for your group.
Tel: 01257 248007
www.alfatravel.co.uk/
group-bookings
Bicton Park Botanical
Gardens – Planning a
Group Visit in 2026
Bicton Park is one of those
places that rewards
curiosity. Spread across 64
acres, the gardens unfold
in a sequence of distinct
landscapes formal
terraces, rolling lawns,
quiet arboretums and
ornamental lakes giving
groups plenty of space to
explore at their own pace.
It’s an easy win for mixedability
parties: level paths,
clear routes and regular
stopping points make the
day manageable without
feeling constrained.
A major highlight for 2026
remains the historic
glasshouse range,
including the magnificent
Palm House. Often
described as one of the
most beautiful garden
buildings in the world, it’s a
masterclass in Victorian
engineering, filled with
towering palms and warm,
tropical atmosphere. For
horticulture-minded
groups, this is the
showpiece. For everyone
else, it’s simply dramatic
and memorable – the sort
of place where cameras
30

Where will
your group go?
All our Group Holidays Include:
3 A fantastic range of value for
money holidays, all available with
nationwide pick-ups
3 Exclusive sole use of the coach
for 30 passengers or more
3 Free places at Leisureplex Hotels
on the 21st, 31st, 41st and 48th
passenger travelling
3 Free porterage on arrival and
departure at all Leisureplex Hotels
3 Group Dining Guaranteed at
Leisureplex Hotels (with dining plan)
3 Tailored itineraries to suit your
requirements
Festive 2026
Available Now
Call our groups team today on 01257 248007
book online at alfatravel.co.uk/group-bookings
via email at groups@alfatravel.co.uk or visit your local travel agent

Group Travel Today
Coldharbour Mill: A Living
Industrial Landmark for
Group Visits
Coldharbour Mill offers
group visitors a rare
opportunity to walk
straight into Britain’s
industrial past while
enjoying all the ease and
comfort needed for a
modern group day out. Set
beside the River Culm in
the Devon countryside, this
remarkable site is one of
the oldest working woollen
mills in the UK, with
continuous production
stretching back to 1797. Yet
its story stretches even
further back: a mill has
stood at Coldharbour,
Uffculme, since the time of
the Domesday Book. For
groups seeking depth,
atmosphere and
meaningful historical
immersion, this is an
exceptional choice.
The experience unfolds
through live
demonstrations, heritage
machinery in action, and
access to nationally and
internationally significant
collections that illuminate
the evolution of textile
manufacture. English
Heritage has praised
Coldharbour Mill as
probably one of the bestpreserved
textile mill
complexes in the country,
retaining authentic
buildings, original power
systems and much of the
functioning machinery
used well into the 20th
century. Groups aren’t
simply looking at history;
they are stepping directly
into the working world that
once powered Britain’s
industrial rise and
contributed to global
trade networks.
Event days are a particular
favourite with group
organisers, when the mill’s
impressive steam engines
are fired up, filling the
building with the rhythmic
movement and
mechanical heartbeat of
a true Victorian factory
setting. For visitors
fascinated by engineering,
industrial heritage or the
social changes of the 18th
and 19th centuries, it is an
unforgettable moment
that brings the past roaring
into the present. Those who
prefer a gentler pace can
enjoy the wetland,
wellbeing and wildlife
spaces, which invite
visitors to pause, observe
local nature and unwind
within the peaceful Devon
landscape.
The flexibility of the site
makes planning
straightforward. Guided
tours offer detailed
interpretation from
experts, while self-guided
visits allow for exploration
at your own pace. The
café provides a
comfortable setting for
refreshments, and the shop
showcases heritage-made
wools and textiles created
using traditional
techniques, giving groups
a chance to purchase
something distinctive and
authentically crafted.
Many organisers choose to
pair Coldharbour Mill with
other nearby attractions,
building a full itinerary that
blends heritage, scenery
and local culture.
Accessibility is another
strength. Situated just five
minutes from the M5 at
Junction 27, Coldharbour
Mill is easy to reach and
ideal for both full-day
group visits and shorter
stop-offs en route to
destinations across the
South West. Coach parking
and visitor facilities are
well organised, and the
team is experienced in
welcoming travel groups
of all sizes.
For group bookings or to
plan your visit, see
www.coldharbourmill.org.uk
32

FINALIST
AWARDS
Best Museum or Gallery
WORKING
WOOL
MUSEUM

Group Travel Today
come out instinctively.
across East Devon.
also a thriving town. Home
accommodation and
of Decimus Burton
places of entertainment,
Just across from the formal
In practical terms, Bicton is
architecture, The Pantiles
along with hosting horse
gardens sits the
one of those destinations
and Chalybeate spring,
races on the Old Race
Countryside Museum
that lets you design a visit
two thriving theatres, an
Track (now protected
which is far more engaging
to suit the mood of the
award-winning grass-roots
footpaths on The
than its title suggests. It
group slow and reflective,
music venue, the Spa
Common). In 1909 it
houses a substantial
or more structured with
Valley Railway and the
received its ‘Royal’ status
collection reflecting the
timed activities. It works
recent addition of The
from King Edward VII
transformation of village
well paired with nearby
Amelia Scott , a cultural
thanks to its many royal
life during the first half of
coastal towns, heritage
centre housing art
and aristocratic visitors,
the 20th century. From
attractions and
exhibitions, interactive
and was once the holiday
early agricultural
countryside stops, creating
historical rooms and the
location for a young
machinery to domestic
a flexible hub for your 2026
museum.
Queen Victoria, who also
items, craft tools and
group programmes.
used to worship at King
social history displays, it
offers context and
storytelling that older
Tel: 01395 568465
www.bictongardens.co.uk
Tunbridge Wells is an allyear
round destination with
annual events including
Charles the Martyr Church
by The Pantiles.
groups often appreciate. It
live music on the Pantiles,
Today, Tunbridge Wells is
also provides an indoor
option if you need one in
your itinerary planning.
Discover Tunbridge Wells,
nestled in the heart of the
Garden of England
arts and music festivals, as
well as literary, antiques,
food and drink festivals
alongside open gardens,
also a premier hospitality
and shopping location
with over 250 places to
eat and drink and a broad
For groups who prefer to
the Tunbridge Wells circular
range of big brands and
take in the landscape
Royal Tunbridge Wells in
walk, foodie experiences
boutique independents
without walking long
Kent has long been a
and seasonal events.
within the key shopping
distances, the Bicton
popular destination for
areas; Royal Victoria Place,
Woodland Railway is a
tours and groups,
It is also a historically
The Camden Quarter, The
strong addition. It loops
conveniently situated just
fascinating town, visitors
Old High Street, Chapel
through woodland and
over an hour from Dover
have been coming to
Place and The Pantiles. The
gardens, giving an
and Greater London and
Royal Tunbridge Wells since
town also has dedicated
overview of the estate and
just 25 minutes from the
the discovery of the
coach parking bays five
helping organisers cater to
M25 network. This Royal
Chalybeate Spring in 1606.
minutes’ walk from the
participants with mobility
Spa town offers visitors the
The Wells became a
town centre or The
considerations. It’s also
best of all worlds; set
favourite destination for
Pantiles.
popular with
intergenerational groups
where you want an activity
that keeps everyone
within an area of
outstanding natural beauty
with stately homes and
castles on its doorstep, it is
fashionable society as the
place to be and be seen
which led to the
development of
For more information visit
www.visittunbridgewells.co
m/tours
involved.
Catering is straightforward.
Bicton offers a reduced
entrance fee for groups of
16 or more, along with a
special-priced cream tea,
which makes it particularly
attractive for coach
operators and organisers
looking for predictable
costs and easy logistics.
Seating areas are plentiful,
and the timings can be
built neatly around halfday
or full-day itineraries
34

Devon’s most
Magnicent
Historic Gardens
OPEN ALL
YEAR
Reduced
entrance fee for
groups of 16 or more
plus special priced
pre-booked
cream tea.
Plenty of space for safe social distancing.
B O T ANICAL
G A R D E N S
G A RDEN S of DI S C OVERY
est. 1735
Budleigh Salterton Devon EX9 7BJ
tel: 01395 568465 bictongardens.co.uk
Sat-Nav
EX9 7BQ
Palm House ● Woodland Railway ● Countryside Museum
● Outdoor Play & NEW Extended Indoor Soft Play ●
Restaurant & Gift Shop
See website for details of our special events.

Group Travel Today
Photograph courtesy of John Hunt
traditional methods and
locally inspired ingredients.
The experience concludes
with a tutored tasting,
where guests sample three
Shakespeare Distillery
spirits in a relaxed setting.
The tours are led by
friendly, knowledgeable
guides who make the
experience engaging and
immersive.
With excellent coach
access, and ground-floor
North Yorkshire Moors
Railway value-packed
groups offering
The NYMR is ready to
welcome groups to
experience a nostalgic
group leader, reserved
seating, and assistance
from the dedicated Group
Reservation Team. There
are also catering options
that can be included.
Online there are Access
Guides and staff are on
grouptravel@nymr.co.uk.
Drop Off/Pick Up Point is
station dependent.
Shakespeare Distillery
Located just outside
Stratford-upon-Avon,
facilities, the venue is
designed for comfort and
convenience. The on-site
shop offers a range of
beautifully packaged
spirits and gifts, where
groups are offered a 10%
discount.
journey through 24 miles of
stunning Yorkshire scenery
aboard its fleet of heritage
locomotives.
Groups can explore the
line; being transported
back in time to 1930sthemed
Pickering station,
the operating and
engineering world of the
NYMR at Grosmont, and
Goathland, the station
that became Hogsmeade
Station in the first Harry
Potter film. At the end of
the line is Whitby, with its
bustling harbour, and the
striking ruins of Whitby
Abbey.
hand to assist. Please
notify the NYMR in
advance if any group
members have mobility
requirements, including the
need for wheelchair
spaces.
For group bookings, a 50%
non-refundable deposit is
required. Final numbers and
full payment must be
confirmed at least 14 days
before travel. Group
bookings must be prebooked
by calling 01751
477700 or emailing
Shakespeare Distillery
offers a unique and
memorable experience for
groups looking to enjoy the
best of local
craftsmanship, history, and
hospitality. The Distillery
provides a welcoming visit
combining education,
entertainment, and
indulgence.
Visitors enjoy a guided tour
of the working distillery,
learning how the team
handcrafts award-winning
Gins and British Rums using
For parties seeking a
shorter itinerary, book a
Talk & Tasting at Judith’s,
the Stratford-upon Avon
town centre venue where
visitors combine history
with their Tasting
Experience. Ideal for
parties spending time in
the town; they can sit and
refresh themselves after
shopping and visiting local
Shakespeare historical
sites. Both Judith’s and the
Distillery deliver a sociable,
sensory experience that
delights travellers—
combining local flavour,
fascinating stories, and a
warm Warwickshire
NYMR’s group fares include
welcome.
single and return 1-Stop, 2-
Stop, 3-Stop and All Line
Tickets. An All Line adult
www.shakespearedistillery.
com
return is £40 and an All Line
child return is £20.
Discover Dorset from the
Groups can enjoy fare
discounts (20+ people),
perfect base for Group
Travel
free admission for the
With commanding views
36

Group Travel Today
over the sea, the Marsham
Court offers the ideal base
for group travel, placing
you within easy reach of
Dorset’s most captivating
attractions. Whether your
group is seeking coastal
charm, historic treasures or
unspoilt countryside,
everything is just a short
drive away.
day of exploration.
For coach parties, special
interest tours or social
groups, their prime Dorset
location truly opens the
door to one of England’s
most delightful counties,
absolutely perfect for a
memorable break by the
sea.
From the dramatic cliffs
and golden sands of the
Jurassic Coast – England’s
only natural World Heritage
Site – to the rolling
landscapes of Thomas
Hardy country, Dorset
delivers variety and
inspiration in every
direction. Explore the
bustling harbour of Poole,
the Georgian elegance of
Weymouth or the medieval
streets of Sherborne to
name a few.
Groups can enjoy scenic
cruises, stately homes,
gardens and fascinating
museums, or simply relax in
charming villages and
traditional tea rooms.
Excellent road
connections make day
trips easy and stress-free,
while our welcoming
accommodation, and
home cooked food
provides comfort and
convenience after a full
wwwmarshamcourt
hotel.co.uk
Bizzie Lizzie’s
You will not want to miss
out on a visit to one of
Bizzie Lizzie’s awardwinning
fish and chip
restaurants in Skipton!
Just one bite of their
succulent fish covered in
the crispiest batter and
golden chips fried in beef
dripping; and you’ll
understand why it’s known
as one of Yorkshire’s best
loved restaurants.
Since opening in 1986, this
family business has grown
to include two fabulous
restaurants and takeaways.
The original, traditional fish
and chip restaurant on
Swadford Street – boasting
panoramic views over
Skipton’s beautiful canal;
and a second modern
restaurant and takeaway
on Skipton’s Main High
Street Car Park, which also
offers scrumptious
afternoon teas with a
modern twist.
Open every day, yearround,
Bizzie Lizzie’s offers
a warm Yorkshire welcome
and an extensive mouthwatering
menu. Ensuring all
can enjoy the Bizzie Lizzie’s
experience, both
restaurants use only the
finest locally sourced
ingredients and
sustainable fish; with a vast
menu including gluten free,
vegan, vegetarian,
pescatarian, dairy-free
options and calorie
counted dishes.
A firm favourite with
shoppers, locals and
visitors alike, Bizzie Lizzie’s
pride themselves on great
food, great value, and an
unbeatable dining
experience time after
time. Coach party
bookings are welcome.
Visit www.bizzielizzies.co.uk
for more information
Coach Parties Welcome
Free meals for Coach Drivers
Senior Citizen Discount
Group Booking Discount (12 or more)
Booking essential
Available at
Swadford Street &
High Street Car Park Restaurants
Now Available at Swadford Street Restaurant and Takeaway
Gluten Free Fish and Chips cooked in Sunflower Oil
Accredited by Coeliac UK
High Street Car Park, Skipton 01756 794531
Restaurant and Takeaway 11am - 8pm
Swadford Street, Skipton 01756 701131
Mon-Sun Restaurant 11am - 8pm
Takeaway 01756 793189 Sun - Thus 11am - 8pm Fri & Sat 11am - 9pm
bizzielizzies.co.uk
accredited by
38

Visit Stratford upon Avon’s
Top Attraction!
AWARD WINNING
GROUP EXPERIENCES
TOURS • GIN & RUM TASTINGS • GIN CRUISES
FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFO VISIT OUR WEBSITE
S H A K E S P E A R E D I S T I L L E R Y.CO M
OR CONTACT JANE MCKAY:
jane@shakespearedistillery.com
www.helmingham.com
Discover the beauty and tranquillity of Helmingham
Hall’s breathtaking gardens and park. Explore the
classic parterre, vibrant walled kitchen garden, and
exquisite herb and knot gardens.
Enjoy all your favourite barista-style drinks in the
Café, paired with delicious bites and sweet treats.
Browse the shops for unique gifts, local produce,
and garden treasures – and don’t forget to explore
our calendar of seasonal events happening
throughout the year.

Group Travel Today
Groups of ten or more can
purchase single or return
tickets at a discounted
rate, and group catering
options are also available.
Coach drivers receive a
free hot or cold drink and
sandwich. There is free
coach parking available at
both ends of the line. Train
services are accessible,
and wheelchair lifts are
available at both stations.
Helmingham Hall
Nestled in the heart of
Suffolk, Helmingham Hall
Gardens offers a peaceful
escape, set against the
stunning backdrop of a
Tudor Hall and tranquil
moat. With its awardwinning,
beautifully
designed borders,
herbaceous walks, ancient
oak trees, and thriving
kitchen garden, it’s a
haven for garden lovers
and visitors seeking a
tranquil day out.
The gardens come alive
throughout the year with a
variety of exciting events,
from plant fairs and
outdoor theatre to food
festivals and the
enchanting Illuminated
Garden Trail at Christmas.
There’s something for
everyone, whether you’re
looking to explore, relax, or
enjoy local food and drink.
Wright’s Café serves a
delicious range of food
and drink, while the
courtyard shops offer
unique gifts, plants, and
garden accessories. A visit
to Helmingham Hall
Gardens provides the
perfect blend of natural
beauty, engaging events,
and a warm, welcoming
atmosphere.
www.helmingham.com
The Welshpool & Llanfair
Light Railway
Sit back and enjoy
beautiful views of the Mid-
Wales countryside on
board historic narrowgauge
trains. Built in 1903 to
link the farming
communities of Llanfair
Caereinion and Welshpool,
the line now boasts links to
a variety of international
communities. British
Railways stopped
operating on the Llanfair
and Welshpool line in 1956,
but thanks to local
enthusiasts, Welshpool and
Llanfair Light Railway
Preservation Company
Limited was formed in 1960
and started operating in
1963 – and has done so
ever since!
Highlights of the journey
include a variety of wildlife
and wildflower habitats as
the train ambles through
Powis Estates, as well as
the notoriously steep climb
up Golfa bank. Locomotive
822 ‘The Earl’ has been
operating on the railway
since 1903 and still
regularly pulls varied rolling
stock from Austria,
Hungary, and Sierra Leone.
The W&LLR offers a range
of options for group travel.
www.wllr.org.uk
Discover Europe Together
with Riviera Travel
Are your group members
new to touring, or simply
craving a European
escape for 2026 and not
sure where to begin? You
don’t have to decide —
they ’ve handpicked their
top European journeys just
for you.
Europe’s diversity is
endlessly captivating —
from the stillness of Italy’s
shimmering lakes to the
golden rhythm of Spain’s
sun-drenched squares. With
so many incredible
Photograph courtesy of A Simmonds
40

01938 810441
groups@wllr.org.uk
www.wllr.org.uk/information/groups-charters/
Mid Wales.
Powered by
Steam.
Trains run April -
November.
Small Rails.
Grand Views.
Great Group
Days Out.
Image credit: H. Billmore
Group
catering
options
available
Coach driver
receives a free
drink and
sandwich
Tour guide
travels free
Group
rates for
groups of
10+ adults
The Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway was opened in 1903
as a working line to serve the local community. It closed in
1956, but was re-opened as a heritage line in the 1960s.
It never made anybody rich. But it opened up the area, offering
access to distant markets and allowing farming to prosper. The
line connected people together. Once, it connected Llanfair to
the world. Now, it connects the world - and your group - to
Llanfair Caereinion.
SY21 0SF
Llanfair
Caereinion
SY21 7LT
Welshpool

Group Travel Today
Art Nouveau architecture
and walk through Kadriorg
Park’s blooming gardens.
Eight days from £1,269pp,
departing April 2026.
These are just a few of
their European favourites —
designed for groups,
friends, families and clubs
ready to experience the
world, together.
And lets not forget their
exclusive group offer,
receive 10% back or a free
place when you book for a
group of 10 or more on all
tours, plus ocean and
yacht cruises. So get
destinations, narrowing
down where to go can feel
impossible. That’s why their
travel experts have
carefully curated a
collection of European
favourites that promise
exceptional experiences
and remarkable value. City
taxes? Covered. Hidden
extras? Never. And the best
part — you can fly from
your local airport without
paying a penny more. No
surprises, just transparency,
comfort and the joy of
travelling together.
history. Wander through
UNESCO-listed ruins in
Agrigento’s Valley of the
Temples, step inside the
exquisite Roman mosaics
of Piazza Armerina, and
dine in rustic agriturismos
serving sun-ripened Sicilian
produce. With visits to
Syracuse and Ortygia’s
ancient heart, this eightday
tour departs April 2026
from £1,589pp.
Or perhaps Malta
Uncovered tempts your
group – where prehistoric
temples pre-date the
pyramids, and golden
harbours hide stories of
knights and explorers.
Across Valletta, Rabat,
Mdina and the island of
Gozo, this is history with a
hint of sunshine – eight
days from £1,099pp,
departing November 2026.
Finally, explore a different
kind of European charm
with Helsinki, Tallinn & Riga
– a journey through Gothic
spires, Nordic design and
Baltic soul. Sail between
capitals, discover Riga’s
booking and look forward
to your next European
adventure in 2026.
Call 01283 901 083
Visit rivieragroups.co.uk
Email
groups@rivieratravel.co.uk
For individual holidays, visit
rivieratravel.co.uk or call
01283 742 300 and mention
Group Travel Today
Magazine
Let’s start with a Riviera
favourite – Classical Spain:
Seville, Córdoba &
Granada. This seven-day
adventure uncovers
Andalucía’s magical blend
of Spanish and Moorish
cultures. Expect Seville’s
vibrant streets, Granada’s
world-famous Alhambra,
and the dazzling Mezquita
in Córdoba – all from just
£1,069pp, departing
February 2026.
Further east, Sicily is a feast
for the senses, a living
museum of 2,500 years of
42

THE SHORT 20 TH CENTURY
TRACES OF THREE WARS IN HEUVELLAND
Heuvelland is the only municipality in Flanders where there are still traces of the
three great conflicts of the previous century. Inspired by the book The Age of Extremes:
The Short Twentieth Century, 1914-1991 by the famous British historian Eric Hobsbawn,
Heuvelland Tourism has put together an interesting arrangement. Accompanied by
a specialist guide, you will visit the following three sites:
WWI: BAYERNWALD:
The Germans captured this 40 metre-high strategic location in 1914 and turned it into an
impregnable fortress, which they held until the summer of 1917. The ingenious trench system
at Bayernwald was the German answer to the mining threat posed by their British opponents.
Part of this system has been accurately reconstructed. Its listening shafts, trenches and four
bunkers tell the story of the war from the German side.
WWII: BUNKER FROM THE MAGINOT LINE ON THE ZWARTEBERG:
Increasing German militarism during the 1930s forced France to build a new defensive line
along its frontier. The brain behind this plan was the French Minister of War, André Maginot,
a decorated veteran from the Great War. He died in 1932 but the new fortifications were
named after him posthumously. The Maginot bunker on the Black Mountain is of the S10
type and was known as Ermitage Sud (Hermitage South).
COLD WAR: THE COMMAND BUNKER
After WWII, France, Great Britain, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxemburg decided to
develop a joint air defence system. Three huge underground bunkers were constructed as
part of this system, with one of them – in Kemmel, started in 1952 – serving as the command
post. The guide will conduct you through two of the under ground levels, where some of the
more than 50 rooms have been turned into a museum. Wherever possible, the rooms have been
left as they were during the Cold War, so that you can sample the authentic 1950s atmosphere.
All the locations in this arrangement can be visited individually.
Bayernwald Maginotbunker Commandobunker 1953
VISITORS CENTRE ‘HET HEUVELLAND’
Sint-Laurentiusplein 1, B-8950 Heuvelland-Kemmel
T. +32 57 45 04 55 • E-mail: toerisme@heuvelland.be
website: www.tourismheuvelland.be • facebook: www.facebook.com/heuvelland.be

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provide comfortable travel
support you from booking
to arrival
Over 45 years of award winning
customer service
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Call 01202 638 841 or visit daishs.com @daishs4groups
Isle of Wight
Bournemouth
Newquay
Weymouth
Eastbourne
Blackpool
Llandudno
Torquay
Weston-super-Mare
Scarborough