Group Travel Today 2

GroupTravel Today

Volume 19 Issue 2 2026

Leeds

Castle

Where

History

Lives

Undivided shutterstock

Destination Delight

Loughborough, unexpectedly delightful

Marvelous Markets

Colour, character, and the joy of browsing

Space & Exploration

Reaching beyond the everyday, into the

extraordinary

Spring Escapes

Fresh air, new places, and the season

unfolding

Tour Operators

Crafting journeys that bring it all together

North East Attractions

Big skies, bold places, and plenty

to discover

Animal Attractions

Close encounters and moments that

stay with you

Stunning Sussex

Coast, countryside, and quiet surprises

And much more...

---

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Eastbourne

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Scarborough

---

Comment

Contents

News

4

The English Riviera

AGTO

6

Spotlight on ...

7

Johnsons Journal

8

Marvelous Markets

10

Destination Loghborough

12

There’s a moment, usually somewhere

between the first coffee and the

a little more certainty.

Space & Exploration

14

second handshake, when you get a

And yet, the overall feeling isn’t one of

feel for how things really are.

hesitation. If anything, it’s the opposite.

Captivating Castle

16

At the British Tourism & Travel Show this

year, that moment came quickly. The

aisles were busy, properly busy. Not the

polite kind of footfall, but the sort

where people are stopping, leaning in,

asking questions that lead somewhere.

You could feel it — that sense that

people hadn’t just come to look, they’d

come to get things done.

It’s a mood that seems to be carrying

across the wider trade. Conversations

around Association of Group Travel

Organisers events and UKInbound

gatherings tell a similar story. Good

attendance, genuine engagement, and

— perhaps most importantly — real

business being quietly agreed in

corners and over coffee.

But there’s something else there too.

Not worry exactly. Just a slight

tightening of the lens.

People are thinking a bit harder about

costs. Looking a little more closely at

what works and what doesn’t. And then

there’s the slow, steady arrival of new

European travel requirements —

fingerprint scans at borders, and the

upcoming ETIAS, due to come in from

late 2026, which will require travellers

to apply before they even set off. None

of it dramatic on its own,

but enough to make

organisers pause,

double-check, and

build in a little more time,

There’s a sense of the industry settling

into itself again. Less distraction, more

clarity. A focus on places that know

how to welcome a group properly, and

experiences that deliver without fuss.

The kind of reliability that doesn’t shout,

but quietly earns its place in a

programme year after year.

You’ll see that reflected throughout this

issue.

From the steady insights in AGTO to the

familiar rhythm of Johnsons Journal,

from the colour and

character of Marvelous

Markets to the pull of

Captivating Castle and

the ease of Spring

Escapes, there’s a

thread running through

it all. Destinations like

Loughborough, the wide appeal of

Space & Exploration, the regional

strength of the North East, Sussex and

Kent — each offering something

organisers can use, not just admire.

Because that’s where we are now.

Still busy. Still optimistic. Just a little

more considered.

And perhaps, in the long run, that

makes for better decisions all round.

Happy travelling.

Nigel

Spring Escapes

18

Tour Operators

20

North East Attractions

24

Animal Attractions

26

Stunning Sussex

28

Focus on Kent

30

Perfect for Groups

32

Media Partner

Beau Business Media Group Ltd

Publishing House, Windrush, Ash Lane,

Birmingham, B48 7TS

email: beaubusinessmedia@gmail.com

Tel: 0121 445 6961

3

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News

Group Travel Today

New Roles for Familiar Faces as Daish’s Holidays

In many travel businesses,

the real strength sits

quietly behind the scenes

the people who know the

customers, understand the

rhythm of the operation,

and keep everything

running smoothly. At Daish’s

Holidays, two such team

members have recently

stepped into new roles at

the company’s

Bournemouth head office.

Maria Green (left), who

has spent the past decade

with the business, has been

promoted from

Reservations Manager to

Head of Sales and

Marketing. Having worked

closely with customers for

many years, she brings a

clear understanding of

what guests value most

from a holiday.

Maria says she is excited

to begin the next chapter

and help the company

continue to grow,

welcoming new guests

while strengthening Daish’s

loyal customer base.

Alongside this, Carla

Manners has been

promoted from Assistant

Reservations Manager to

Reservations Manager

after joining the team in

2019.

Commercial Director Paul

Harper said the promotions

reflect the company’s

belief in developing talent

from within.

www.daishs.com

London Transport Museum Hits Record High

There’s something quietly

reassuring about a place

that keeps the city

moving, even when you’re

standing still. In 2025,

London Transport Museum

welcomed a record

449,599 visitors — its

highest since opening in

Covent Garden in 1980 —

helped along by new

exhibitions, a refreshed

identity, and a sharper

focus on group visits.

What draws people in isn’t

just nostalgia. It’s the sense

of stepping behind the

curtain. Hidden London

tours, now more popular

than ever, offer access to

forgotten platforms and

secret tunnels, the kind of

spaces that feel like

stories waiting to be told.

Add in live Friday music

and thoughtful displays,

and it becomes less a

museum, more a living,

breathing piece of the city.

www.ltmuseum.co.uk

Front Cover- There’s a

quiet confidence to this

front cover, drawn from an

early morning walk at

Buttermere, where the day

feels as though it’s only just

beginning to gather itself.

The lake lies perfectly still,

reflecting the surrounding

fells with a clarity that

almost feels deliberate, as

if nature has paused to

compose something worth

looking at properly.

A line of trees traces the

water’s edge, each one

distinct, yet together

forming a gentle rhythm

across the scene. Beyond

them, the hills lift in soft

layers of green and

burnished amber, catching

the first light in a way that

feels both fleeting and

quietly assured.

It doesn’t demand

attention. It earns it —

slowly, and then all at

once.

The English Riviera Walking

Festival is set to return

with a newly curated

programme featuring 20

coastal walks along South

Devon's incredible

coastline. The event, taking

place across Torquay,

Paignton and Brixham from

06 - 21 June, will feature a

new wave of immersive,

expertly guided

experiences that combine

history, heritage, creativity

and wellbeing.

www.englishriviera.co.uk

4

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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

AGTO MATTERS

How trade shows

attract GTOs

The three major annual

group travel trade

shows provide the

platform for group

travel organisers and

industry suppliers to get

together, offering ideas

and inspiration for

future trips and

holidays. Wendy

Hartley-Scarff, chief

executive of the

Association for Group

Travel Organisers

(AGTO) takes a look at

the changes that are

taking place to ensure

these important events

remain key dates in a

group travel organiser’s

diary?

This year the British

Tourism & Travel Show

(BTTS) changed from

being a two-day show

to being a single day.

The move came in

response to exhibitors’

ever tightening show

budgets and the

increasing costs of

organising such events.

BTTS is often regarded

as the doyen of group

travel shows. The name

has changed of course;

think back to the British

Travel Trade Fair at the

NEC in the 1990s, then

Best of Britain and

Ireland (BoBI) at

Olympia in central

London before settling

back at the NEC.

This year, a look through

the show catalogue

revealed some 220

different exhibitors. A

new initiative, ‘Tourism

Tycoon’, added

something new, in the

form of a ‘passport’

that offered prizes for

visitors who engaged

with exhibitors and

other activities.

Another event trying

something new is

Excursions, billed as the

‘UK’s longest running

group travel show’, and

now in its 52nd year. This

year, the format

changed with the

introduction of

‘Excursions on the Road’

and the start of the

event moving to a

different venue each

year.

This year brought

around 50 exhibitors

and a more relaxed

table-top format,

moving away from the

rigidity of a traditional

shell-scheme design. It

worked, with visitors

and exhibitors saying

the new format worked

well.

The other main group

travel exhibition, the

Group Leisure & Travel

Show, which has found a

home at Arena MK in

Milton Keynes, this year

taking place on 8

October, also offers

around 200 exhibitors.

The show stands alone

in having a line-up of

celebrity speakers,

giving visitors a break

from walking the aisles.

AGTO attends all these

shows, highlighting the

benefits of membership

and taking the

opportunity to engage

with visitors and

industry suppliers. But

we’re also innovating

ourselves. At the end of

February we held our

second ‘AGTO

Showcase’. This

weekend event, which

used to be an annual

date in the group travel

calendar prior to the

pandemic, returned in

2025 and was held at

the Marsham Court

Hotel in Bournemouth.

This year, the venue was

the Holiday Inn

Leicester, with around

100 GTOs and suppliers

getting together for a

programme of

familiarisation trips and

entertainment. This mix

of business and

socialising includes the

Showcase Exhibition, a

table-top format that

gives exhibitors and

GTOs the opportunity

to chat away from the

time constraints of the

traditional group travel

shows. The event proved

successful and plans

are in place for ‘AGTO

Showcase 2027’.

Our members told us

they welcome this

alternative to the

regular group travel

trade shows, offering

another way to

discover the new ideas

and inspiration they

need for their trips and

holidays.

agto.co.uk

6

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Group Travel Today

Spotlight on the Royal Three Counties Show

Royal Three Counties Show

– A Classic British Day Out

for Groups

Every June, the countryside

around Malvern comes

alive with the sights,

sounds and flavours of rural

Britain during the Royal

Three Counties Show.

Taking place from 12–14

June 2026, this much-loved

event brings together

farming heritage, great

food and lively

entertainment in a way

that makes it ideal for

group visits.

Across the showground,

visitors can watch thrilling

live arena displays, meet

more than 800 animals,

and enjoy a varied

programme featuring wellknown

personalities from

the farming and

countryside world. It is a

celebration of everything

that makes the British

countryside special.

Food lovers will enjoy the

bustling food and drink

festival, while outdoor

family activities and

interactive demonstrations

ensure there is something

to interest everyone in the

group. From traditional

livestock competitions to

hands-on countryside

experiences, the show

offers a full day of

discovery and

entertainment.

Groups are warmly

welcomed, with tickets

available from £8 per

person when booked in

advance. Coach parking is

free, drivers receive

complimentary entry, and

tour leaders receive a free

ticket when ten or more

places are booked.

For groups seeking a lively,

authentic countryside

experience, the Royal

Three Counties Show

delivers a memorable day

out.

Three Counes registered charity no. 511868

GREAT

CELEBRITY

LINE UP

live Arena Displays

Over 8000

Animals to See

Outdoor Family Activities

Food & drink Festival

Kids go FREE!

@3countiesshows

7

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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.

Decorated Games room

Charlcote

In 2025 my organised trips

finished earlier in December

than normal. Our last event

was a very well supported –

178 attending – Christmas

lunch at Leonardo’s Hotel on

the A5 near Hinckley. Two of

my group had

recommended a singing

duo ‘Velvet Souls’ for the

after meal entertainment.

They had a good number of

us dancing the calories

away and singing along to

many of the songs.

Train in the tree at

Charlcote

It’s unusual that, as a group, First day of Christmas, Baddelsey

we didn’t visit a Stately

home decorated for

Christmas in 2025. Instead

Ken and I decided to take

ourselves to various local

National Trust houses once

all the Group’s trips were

over. Charlecote Park had a

party theme which included

Georgian dresses made out

of wallpaper. The Games

Room was decorated with

playing cards hanging like

by grandparents. Between

streamers over the snooker

Christmas and New Year we

table. Best of all was a

had hoped to see Upton

Christmas tree with a model

House with its display of the

railway train going through

Tales of Aesop but

the branches near the top

unfortunately the weather

of the tree which intrigued

Snowmens party at Baddesley

forced the house to close

young and old alike.

the day we wanted to go. If

Baddesley Clinton had a

you do want to go to one of

Snowman theme. There were

these houses there are no

twelve brightly painted

pre-booked tickets. To avoid

plastic snowmen (based on

the queues and get one of

the Raymond Briggs

the timed house entry

character) in the grounds.

tickets, go when the site first

Each represented one of the

opens. The nearer it gets to

Twelve Days of Christmas.

Christmas, the busier these

Inside the house the theme

places are. Said

continued with plenty to

Grandparents just love

interest the many children

taking their little charges

there accompanied mainly

somewhere that, as National

Trust members, is free and

that the children will enjoy.

Early in the New Year we

went to Sonning Mill Theatre

to see ‘My Fair Lady’. It’s

become an annual treat

and my goodness this year

they produced a fantastic

show. The best we have ever

been to. We took a full

coach of 53 and they are

still all talking about it and

booking for the next year’s

production of ‘Anything

Goes’.

The rest of January, as far as

the Club is concerned, has

been discussing and

planning what holidays for

2027 we should put out as

suggestions for the

members to vote on at the

end of January meeting.

Those with enough support

we will ask our two main

suppliers, Norman Allen

Group Travel and Success

Tours to quote on. I also have

someone who is

contemplating taking over

when I decide that I want to

slow down and two of her

suggestions, if they have

enough support, she will

take control of. They are a

River Cruise and a Croatian

Island-Hopping Cruise that I

have done before very

successfully. We have some

new, younger members who

may like to do them, so this

is a good opportunity for her

to see how everything works

and lead the group.

8

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Group Travel Today

Our next holiday is not until

late April when we go by

Eurostar to Paris. There was a

very timely article in this

magazine that has given me

and the group some ideas

for our free day. We already

had some of the things

mentioned within our

present itinerary. More of

that later in the year.

Ken, as regular readers know,

loves trains (and my

grandfather was a

signalman on the Great

Western Railway at both

High Wycombe and West

Wycombe in

Buckinghamshire) so each

year we have a holiday just

for the two of us visiting one

of the many Heritage

Railways. In 2025 we

returned to the Ffestiniog

Railway (his choice), staying

at Portmeirion (my choice).

Ken had booked on the new

Boston Lodge tour. Because

there were volunteers from

the North Yorkshire Moors

Railway (where we are

heading for in 2026) in the

group we got to go into the

The Coach Building Works.

Ffestiniog Railway

coach building works, which

is normally closed to the

public. What a privilege that

A sunny day at Portmeirion

was. Did you know you can be there to make work to

even commission a special sell, but mostly online. They

carriage to your own

say the multi-purpose

specifications – they are in community space will be

the process of building one open for exhibitions, and

for a lady which includes a maybe other things.

drinks bar. If we ever win the

premium bonds that might We made our way back to

be high on Ken’s wish list. Portmeirion and spent a very

Afterwards, we enjoyed enjoyable afternoon

lunch in the station

exploring. Staying on site

restaurant and then a ride allows you the freedom to

on the railway to finish off wander around after the

our visit. The following day, tourists have gone home.

as it was only a 30 minute We usually have a serviced

drive away, we decided to flat on a bed and breakfast

go to Pwllheli for the

basis so we can decide

morning to see how the Old whether to eat at one of

Welsh Chapel (Capel

the two hotels in the

Salem), acquired by ‘The evening or go out. It would

Great Pottery Throw Down’ make a very special tour to

host Keith Brymer-Jones, was include at least one night

getting on. They were still there. We met several

filming but I have seen that couples who were doing just

all will be revealed in the 3rd that, celebrating birthdays

series airing in 2026.

or wedding anniversaries.

Unfortunately the studio will

be private. Apprentices will At the time of writing, I am

looking forward to the AGTO

Showcase weekend in

Leicester. For me that’s very

local and a good

opportunity to network with

Tour Operators and GTO

colleagues alike. We didn’t

think we would find anything

new to experience for the

usual Saturday afternoon

‘Fam’ trip. However, despite

being born and bred and

working in Leicester for

nearly 30 years even Ken

hadn’t been to the Jewry

Museum near St Nicholas

Circle and we are very much

looking forward to seeing

that. They do say that you

often don’t go to places on

your doorstep. I would even

hazard a guess that many of

my members haven’t either.

I’m also looking forward to

visiting the BTTS at NEC this

year as I have been

nominated and accepted

for VIP status by an exhibitor.

This show and the Group

Leisure Show at Milton

Keynes are my two main

sources for information with

so many of my day trips and

tour itinerary ideas having

come from them. The March

BTTS is where I firm up with

the tour operators the

holidays that my members

have voted on in January

and it’s not unusual for me to

go back to see them before

the day is out with

suggestions to add to the

tours after talking to

representatives on other

stands. Luckily I also have

two of my members go with

me that I can bounce ideas

off, so I don’t get carried

away.

9

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Group Travel Today

Marvelous Markets

Marvellous Markets celebrates colourful destinations where groups can browse local produce, discover

crafts, meet friendly traders and enjoy the simple pleasure of wandering lively stalls together.

Jubilee Market

At the heart of Covent

Garden, Jubilee Market

offers groups a shopping

experience that feels both

timeless and full of life. Set

within the historic Jubilee

Hall, built in 1904 and rich in

character, the market

blends heritage with a

vibrant mix of

independent traders.

arts and crafts, antiques,

collectibles, and

distinctive gifts.

Ludlow Market

Ludlow’s historic market

square is the lively heart of

the town, offering a warm

welcome to visitors

throughout the year. Set

against the backdrop of

the magnificent Castle

and medieval streets,

Ludlow Market brings

together local makers,

growers, and traders in a

setting full of character.

Regular markets take

place every Monday,

Wednesday, Friday, and

Saturday, each one

offering a fresh mix of

produce, crafts,

homewares, and everyday

essentials. For those who

love a good browse, the

Specialist Antiques Market

returns in February on the

1st and 3rd Sunday of each

month, filling the square

with curios, collectibles,

and vintage treasures. The

much‐loved Local to

Ludlow Producers Market

also resumes in February,

running on the 2nd and 4th

Thursday and showcasing

the very best food and

drink from the region’s

farms and kitchens.

Just a short stroll away,

Ludlow Museum offers an

engaging journey through

the area’s rich heritage.

Housed in the historic

Buttercross, the museum

blends hands‐on displays

with fascinating stories of

Ludlow’s geology,

archaeology, and social

history. Seasonal

exhibitions add something

new with each visit,

making it a rewarding stop

for families, history

enthusiasts, and curious

explorers alike. Together,

the market and museum

create a perfect day out

in one of Shropshire’s most

charming towns.

Visit www.ludlow.gov.uk for

more information.

Across more than 120 stalls,

groups can browse an

ever-changing selection of

This is a unique shopping

experience within the

heart in the heart of

Covent Garden a place

where independent

businesses thrive and every

stall has a story to tell.

What makes Jubilee

Market particularly

appealing for group visits is

the ease and added value.

10

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Pre-booked groups can

take advantage of

discounted shopping

wristbands, offering

savings across all traders,

while guided walking tours

provide a deeper insight

into the market’s history

and character. There’s also

a snack bar and restaurant

on hand, making it easy to

pause and recharge.

drop-off nearby and

plenty to explore in the

surrounding Covent

Garden area, Jubilee

Market works perfectly as

a relaxed, sociable stop.

It’s the kind of place where

groups don’t just visit —

they wander, discover, and

leave with something

memorable.

With convenient coach

www.jubileemarket.co.uk

S U P P O R T I N G

INDEPENDENT

BUSINESSES

O F F E R I N G

UNIQUE

PRODUCTS

Covent Garden’s historic indoor Jubilee Market has plenty to offer for a fabulous shopping trip.

info@jubileemarket.co.uk www.jubileemarket.co.uk @jubileemarket @jubilee.market @jubileemarket75

11

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Group Travel Today

This spring 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.

Loughborough is also home

12

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Group Travel Today

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

www.loveloughborough.co.uk

13

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Group Travel Today

Space & Exploration

Space and Exploration showcases fascinating destinations where groups can

discover the wonders of the universe, enjoy interactive exhibits, and share an

inspiring day exploring science, history and discovery together.

Jodrell Bank

Has recent news of the

Artemis space missions

piqued your interest in the

out-of-this-world? Seeking

a group trip that delivers

both groundbreaking

science and rich cultural

heritage? There’s never

been a better time to

explore Jodrell Bank

Observatory, a UNESCO

World Heritage Site and

home to the mighty Lovell

Telescope: the UK’s largest

radio telescope, famed for

tracking the early Apollo

missions...

Blending green space with

outer space, Jodrell is an

essential stop on any

spring coach tour. Explore

the wonders of the

Universe through hands-on

exhibitions; journey among

the stars in an immersive,

planetarium-style Space

Dome; indulge in tea and

cake from locally sourced

cafés; or simply find some

space within nature with a

stroll through the scenic

Arboretum.

Adult groups of 10 or more

receive free parking, a £10

food and drink voucher for

drivers, and a

complimentary ticket for

the group organiser. You

can also enhance your

visit with an expert-led

Heritage Talk, offering

fascinating insights into

Jodrell Bank’s pioneering

role in radio astronomy.

Jodrell Bank Centre for

Engagement is in Cheshire,

the North West, just off the

A535 between Chelford

and Holmes Chapel. Simply

take Junction 18 off the M6

and follow the brown signs

to the entrance,

approximately six miles

away.

www.jodrellbank.net

infinity and finding it just

off a Leicester ring road.

And yet, the moment you

step inside the National

Space Centre, the ordinary

slips away rather quickly.It

begins with scale. Rockets

don’t sit politely in corners

here; they rise,

unapologetically, through

the building’s light-filled

tower, as if still considering

leaving. Around them,

galleries unfold with a

quiet confidence — not

shouting for attention, but

inviting it. You drift

between satellites,

fragments of moon rock,

and the small, human

details of space travel,

reminded that exploration

is as much about people

as it is about distance.Then

there’s the planetarium —

vast, immersive, and oddly

calming. You sit back, and

for a while, the universe

arranges itself above you

in a way that feels both

enormous and strangely

intimate.What lingers isn’t

just the science, but the

perspective. You leave

with the sense that space

isn’t somewhere else, not

entirely. It’s simply the next

step — and, perhaps,

we’ve been inching

towards it all along

National Space Centre

www.spacecentre.co.uk

There’s something faintly

disarming about arriving at

a place that deals in

14

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Group Travel Today

Captivating Castles

Captivating Castles invites groups to step into history, exploring grand fortresses, dramatic

ruins and royal stories while enjoying memorable days out filled with heritage, scenery and

discovery.

vibrant calendar of events

throughout the year, with

highlights including The

Queen’s Joust, The

Fireworks Spectacular and

Motors by the Moat.

New for 2026, groups can

also experience Pilgrimage

of Love: Eleanor of Castile,

a groundbreaking

exhibition celebrating the

life of Leeds Castle’s first

female owner. Running

from March until November

2026, this captivating

experience showcases

Eleanor’s remarkable

legacy, culminating in an

extraordinary audience

Leeds Castle

With over 900 years of

fascinating history, a

variety of on-site

attractions, and thrilling

events throughout the year,

Leeds Castle offers

something for everyone,

making it the perfect

destination for coach tours

and group excursions.

Once home to six

medieval queens and later

transformed into a 20thcentury

retreat by Lady

Baillie, Leeds Castle’s story

is brought to life through

beautifully preserved

interiors and insightful

multimedia guides. Beyond

the Castle walls, over 550

acres of parkland and

seasonal gardens provide

the perfect setting for

lakeside walks and

moments of relaxation.

Groups can enjoy a range

of pre-bookable

experiences, including

Private Tea and Talks in the

medieval Gatehouse, and

Meet the Owls, an

interactive encounter with

our expert Falconers and

these beautiful birds.

Leeds Castle also hosts a

with Eleanor herself,

featuring the UK’s first

historical AI avatar.

www.leedscastle.com/groups

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent,

ME17 1PL

Tel: 01622 765400

Step into over 900 years of

captivating history, breathtaking

scenery and unforgettable

experiences at Leeds Castle.

enquiries@leeds-castle.co.uk

www.leeds-castle.com

16

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Group Travel Today

Spring Escapes

Spring Starts Here brings groups back into colour and light, featuring uplifting gardens and

easy holiday breaks,fresh air, fresh ideas, and effortless planning for organisers.

Mapperton House,

Gardens and Wildlands

Tucked into the rolling hills

of Dorset, Mapperton

House and Gardens offers

the perfect destination for

a spring escape. As the

season begins to warm the

countryside, the gardens

come alive with fresh

growth, soft colour and the

promise of longer days

outdoors. For visitors

seeking a restorative earlyseason

break, few places

capture the charm of rural

England quite like this

historic estate.

Mapperton is perhaps best

known for its remarkable

award-winning Italianate

terraced gardens, which

cascade down the hillside

below the house. These

carefully designed

terraces create a

dramatic sense of

movement through the

landscape, guiding visitors

past clipped hedges and

topiary, ornamental

planting and sweeping

lawns. In spring the

gardens begin to glow

with seasonal colour –

drifts of tulips and

daffodils, fresh green

foliage and soft pink hues

of the magnolia blossoms

that frame the gardens

and distant hills beyond.

The balance of formal

structure and natural

planting makes the

gardens feel both elegant

and welcoming.

At the heart of the estate

stands Mapperton House, a

beautiful Jacobean manor

whose honey-coloured

stone and historic

character set the tone for

the entire property. Parts of

the house date back to

the 16th century, with later

Jacobean additions

creating the elegant

façade seen today. Over

the centuries it has

remained a family home,

carefully preserved while

opening its doors to visitors

who want to experience

its rich heritage and period

interiors.

A stay on the estate allows

guests to fully immerse

themselves in this

peaceful setting. Several

charming cottages

located across the

grounds provide

comfortable

accommodation for those

wanting a longer garden

getaway. Waking up to

birdsong and morning light

across the fields, visitors

can enjoy early walks

through the estate before

spending the day exploring

the gardens or nearby

countryside.

Spring also brings a lively

programme of events that

make Mapperton an

appealing destination for

groups and garden

enthusiasts. In April, the

Mapperton Spring Plant

Fair gathers specialist

nurseries and growers in

the grounds, offering a

wonderful opportunity to

discover unusual plants,

pick up gardening

inspiration and enjoy a

sociable day among

fellow plant lovers.

The celebrations continue

in May with the Best of

West Dorset Market, where

local producers, makers

and artisans showcase the

very best of the region.

Visitors can browse stalls

filled with seasonal food,

crafts and handmade

goods, turning a garden

visit into a wider

celebration of Dorset’s

rural culture.

Whether drawn by the

beauty of spring planting,

the tranquillity of the

countryside or the appeal

of a short seasonal retreat,

Mapperton offers an

inviting blend of garden

inspiration, history and

hospitality – a perfect

early-season escape.

For seasonal opening times

and to make your group

booking, visit

www.mapperton.com/visit

/group-visits/ | e:

groups@mapperton.com | t:

01308 862645

Marsham Court Hotel – The

perfect base for groups

visiting Dorset.

Just a few minutes’ walk

from the sandy beaches,

Bournemouth Pier and the

town centre, the awardwinning

Marsham Court

Hotel is the ideal base for

groups of all ages.

At the Marsham Court,

they understand what

group organisers need for

a great trip: a warm

welcome from an

established and

professional team,

comfortable rooms with

18

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Group Travel Today

plenty of storage,

delicious homemade food

and facilities that are

accessible to everyone.

With years of experience

hosting groups, their

friendly team is there to

make sure every tour runs

smoothly.

Why Groups Love Staying

with Us:

Brilliant Location – short

walk to the beach, pier,

gardens and attractions in

Bournemouth PLUS discover

our distinctive coastal

villages and rural Dorset all

within an hour of the hotel.

Dining – delicious, freshly

prepared menus to suit all

dietary requirements.

Stylish En-suite Rooms –

standard, sea view and

balcony options as well as

up to 4 singles with no

supplement.

Coach-Friendly – easy

access and parking for

smooth arrivals.

Accessible for All –

accessible bedrooms on

request, lift access to

ensure every guest can

enjoy their stay.

So Much to Explore – from

the Jurassic Coast to local

museums, gardens and

theatres.

About Marsham Court

Hotel

The Marsham Court Hotel is

a friendly, family-run hotel

in Bournemouth with

stunning sea views, a

reputation for warm

hospitality, and a wealth of

experience in hosting

groups. With a strong

commitment to

accessibility and

inclusivity, the hotel

ensures that every guest —

whatever their needs —

enjoys a welcoming and

memorable stay.

Contact them today to

plan your next group trip!

01202 446644

groups@marshamcourt

hotel.co.uk

www.marshamcourt

hotel.co.uk

19

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Group Travel Today

Tour Operators

Tour Operators highlights trusted specialists who make planning group trips effortless,

offering inspiring itineraries, expert organisation and memorable experiences your

members can enjoy together.

and reliable option. With a

long-established

reputation for value and

friendly service, Alfa

specialises in coach

holidays designed

specifically with groups in

mind.

point to destination with

direct return travel

included. Alfa’s

experienced team can

also help tailor itineraries

to suit the interests of your

group, ensuring every trip

feels personal and well

organised.

Great Value, Quality

Group Holidays with Alfa

For group organisers

looking to plan a relaxed

and enjoyable holiday

without the stress of

complicated

arrangements, Alfa

Holidays offers a proven

One of the biggest

advantages is simplicity.

Groups of 30 passengers or

more can enjoy sole use of

the coach, travelling

together in comfort and

style on a Mercedes

Tourismo, from departure

Accommodation is

another highlight because

Alfa has an extensive

portfolio of owned and

partnered hotels, where

group dining is guaranteed

and porterage is included,

Great quality

2027

Holidays

group holidays

on sale

now

Up to

4 free

places

Alfa Group Holidays include:

3 A fantastic range of value for

money holidays

3 Special Joining arrangements

sole use of the coach for 30 or more

passengers

3 Direct return coach travel

3 Free place Discounts at Alfa Hotels on the

21st, 31st, 41st and 48th passenger

3 Group Dining Guaranteed at Alfa Hotels

3 Tailored itineraries to suit your

requirements

3 Extensive collection of accommodation

3 Porterage Included at Alfa Hotels

No Single Supplements

on standard single rooms

5 DAYS FROM £289 * PER PERSON

*Based on 2 people sharing a standard room

Call our groups team today on 01257 248007

book online at alfaholidays.co.uk/group-bookings

via email at groups@alfaholidays.co.uk or visit your local travel agent

20

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T H E W R M E S T W E L C O M E A T S E A

B R I T A I N ’ S A F F O R D A B L E V L U E C R U I S E L I N E

Our group benets:

• Special 5% group discount

o Saver Fares and

Ambassador Fares on

selected sailings

• Book just 25 adult

passengers and you will

be oered a free place!

• Private Group cocktail

party onboard

• Preferential group dining

arrangement*

AWARD WINNING CRUISE LINE FOR GROUPS

We have cruises on sale in 2025, 2026, 2027 and 2028

Visit ambassadorcruiseline.com/groups Call 0808 102 8267

Service Rating

2,768 Reviews

4.7/5

Best Value for

Money (Ocean)

Best UK Mid-Size

Cruises Overall

Oers subject to availability and may be withdrawn without notice. In the event of your cruise being cancelled, you will be guaranteed a

full refund. All fares and savings have been rounded up. For full terms and conditions please see our Booking Conditions. Ambassador

Cruise Line reserves the right to cancel, change or amend any theme cruise activities/speakers/acts at short notice. In the event of your

cruise being cancelled, you will be guaranteed a full refund. Cruise holidays booked with Ambassador Cruise Holidays Limited, trading

as Ambassador Cruise Line, are nancially protected in accordance with the Package Travel and Linked Arrangements Regulations

2018. Copyright 2025. Ambassador Cruise Holidays Limited is a company registered in England and Wales. Registered number: 13299365.

---

Group Travel Today

making arrivals smooth and

hassle-free. Generous

incentives also help

organisers maximise value,

with free places offered

for selected passenger

numbers and no single

supplements on standard

single rooms.

From coastal escapes to

classic British resort breaks,

Alfa Holidays provides a

wide range of affordable

holiday options.

For groups seeking great

value, dependable service

and enjoyable shared

experiences, Alfa Holidays

makes organising the

perfect getaway

refreshingly

straightforward.

www.alfaholidays.co.uk/

group-bookings

Daish’s For Groups

If you travel with a group

long enough, you learn

that the journey itself can

become half the story.

Laughter at the back of

the coach, a flask being

passed along the aisle,

someone pointing out a

landmark that sparks a

memory. It’s the sort of

travel that feels pleasantly

unhurried, and that spirit is

very much at the heart of

Daish’s Holidays.

Based in Bournemouth and

still proudly family owned,

Daish’s has quietly built a

reputation for making

traditional seaside breaks

feel reassuringly easy. Their

approach is simple:

comfortable hotels in

places people genuinely

want to visit, coaches that

take the strain out of

travel, and a programme

of excursions that turns a

holiday into a collection of

shared experiences.

Across England and Wales,

the company operates

eleven hotels in nine wellloved

destinations. Each

has its own personality but

shares the same idea of

hospitality: relaxed,

welcoming, and geared

towards guests who enjoy

seeing somewhere

properly rather than simply

ticking it off a list.

Take Newquay, for

instance, where the

Barrowfield Hotel sits close

to Cornwall’s sweeping

Atlantic beaches. Groups

arrive to sea air, sandy

promenades and the

gentle rhythm of a coastal

town that still feels proudly

traditional. Or head north

to Scarborough and the

Esplanade Hotel, where

the view stretches across

one of Britain’s most classic

seaside bays.

Further south, Torquay

offers two Daish’s

properties — the

Devonshire Hotel and the

Abbey Lawn Hotel —

placing groups within easy

reach of palm-lined

promenades and Devon’s

famously mild climate.

Meanwhile, Weymouth’s

Prince Regent and Russell

hotels provide a gateway

to Dorset’s Jurassic Coast,

where the sea meets some

of the most dramatic

landscapes in England.

For groups drawn to the

bustle of larger resorts,

Bournemouth Sands Hotel

sits close to the town’s

long sandy beaches, while

the Imperial Hotel in

Eastbourne offers a base

for exploring the elegant

charm of the Sussex coast.

Over in Wales, the

Somerset Hotel in

Llandudno looks out across

a Victorian seafront that

feels almost unchanged by

time.

One of the appealing

aspects of Daish’s holidays

is the flexibility. Guests can

join one of the company’s

comfortable coaches from

pick-up points across the

UK — stretching from West

Yorkshire to Cornwall — or

make their own way by car.

Either way, the welcome at

the hotel tends to feel the

same: friendly, efficient,

and reassuringly organised.

Once settled in, groups

often discover that the

real joy lies in the

excursions. Each hotel

offers day trips and local

outings that can be

booked at reception,

opening up nearby

attractions, coastal

scenery, and historic towns

without the stress of

planning every detail.

It’s a style of travel that

feels refreshingly

straightforward.

Comfortable journeys,

familiar seaside resorts,

and the pleasure of

exploring somewhere new

in good company — the

kind of holiday that

reminds you why group

travel remains one of the

most enjoyable ways to

see Britain.

www.daishs.com

22

---

2027 NOW

ON SALE

GREAT FOR

Groups

Why not join the hundreds of groups that travel with us every

FREE

places for groups over 20 people

A choice of 12 fantastic hotels

spread across 10 locations

Great value half board breaks

including nightly entertainment

Fleet of 35 luxury coaches to

provide comfortable travel

support you from booking

to arrival

Over 45 years of award winning

customer service

Get in touch with us Today!

Call 01202 638 841 or visit daishs.com @daishs4groups

Isle of Wight

Bournemouth

Newquay

Weymouth

Eastbourne

Blackpool

Llandudno

Torquay

Weston-super-Mare

Scarborough

---

Group Travel Today

North East Attractions

North East Attractions showcases unforgettable places your group will love, from historic landmarks

and vibrant cities to fascinating museums and coastal highlights, perfect for memorable days out.

Photograph: Stuart Boulton

Bamburgh Castle

Standing out – literally – as

one of the North East’s best

destinations for groups,

Bamburgh Castle offers

history, spectacular views,

year round opening and

events as well as major

screen appeal.

Arguably one of the bestloved

coastal fortresses in

the UK, Bamburgh has been

voted best seaside

destination for a record

five consecutive years by

Which? readers and has

just been ranked top third

beach in the world by

TripAdvisor).

Set high above Bamburgh

Beach with views to the

Farne Islands and Holy

Island of Lindisfarne it

offers spectacular views -

perfect for photos and

group sightseeing with

groups choosing to visit

the Castle as a standalone

destination or add in

an itinerary that includes

picture postcard

Bamburgh village and

beach.

Offering over 3000 years of

history, once the royal seat

of the Anglo-Saxon kings

of Northumbria, Bamburgh

has played a key role in

shaping England as we

know it today. Visitors can

explore grand state rooms,

armour displays and see

archaeological collections

that bring the past to life.

As you might expect from

its prime location,

Bamburgh Castle has

starred in numerous major

film and television

productions including the

most recent Indiana Jones

blockbuster The Dial of

Destiny, Transformers The

Last Knight and is the real

life Bebbanburg of hit

Netflix series The Last

Kingdom making it

especially exciting for

visitors who enjoy film

locations and popular

culture.

Bamburgh Castle has

discounted rates for

groups and has a range of

options for itineraries, from

free flow visits to in-depth

guided and bespoke tours.

www.bamburghcastle.com

THE UK’S FAVOURITE

COASTAL DESTINATION *

Bamburgh, Northumberland NE69 7DF

01668 214 208 • bamburghcastle.com

OPEN ALL YEAR • SPECIAL GROUP RATES

*

Best seaside destination as voted by Which? readers

for ve consecutive years

24

---

BERWICK BOAT TRIPS

DAILY SAILINGS

RIVER & SEA TRIPS

FROM

BERWICK-UPON-TWEED

Tel: 07713 170845

www.berwickboattrips.co.uk

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Group Travel Today

Animal Attractions

Animal Attractions highlights wonderful wildlife parks, zoos and sanctuaries where groups can enjoy

close encounters, fascinating stories and unforgetable days discovering animals from around the

world.

attraction that offers

substance, structure, and a

clear ethical message,

Wildheart Animal

Sanctuary delivers a

memorable and wellsupported

day out.

around their Ocean Gift

shop for that perfect gift

for yourself or a loved one.

They’re open daily from

10am to 5pm, so there’s

plenty of time to make

some waves.

Wildheart Animal

Sanctuary

Set on the seafront at

Sandown, Wildheart

Animal Sanctuary offers a

powerful and engaging

group visit where

conservation, history, and

close-up animal

encounters come

together. Home to rescued

big cats, primates, and

reptiles, the sanctuary

places animal welfare

firmly at the heart of the

experience, giving groups

meaningful insight into

both the beauty and the

realities of wildlife care.

Guided tours are designed

with organised visits in

mind, combining full

admission with daily

animal talks, access to the

primate domes and reptile

centres, and time to

explore the site’s historic

fort. The setting adds an

extra layer of interest,

blending heritage with

modern conservation work.

Practical considerations

are well covered, with free

coach parking and

complimentary entry, food,

and drink for group leaders

and drivers.

With generous group

discounts available for

parties of 15 or more, the

sanctuary represents

strong value as well as

emotional impact.

For coach operators

seeking an animal

www.wildheartanimal

sanctuary.org

National Marine Aquarium

Planning a fin-tastic trip to

the National Marine

Aquarium (NMA) with a

group of 12* or more and

arriving by coach or

minibus? Their group deal

discount is just the ticket.*

Get ready to dive into the

deep blue and explore the

UK's national aquarium like

never before. Their Ocean

Discovery Rangers are on

hand with jaw-some

shows, fishy facts, and

deep-sea tales to keep

your whole group hooked!

Enjoy a selection of food

and drink from their Waves

Cafe, before perusing

The NMA is the proud

home of the Ocean

Conservation Trust (OCT)

and over 5,000 amazing

marine animals—from sleek

sharks and graceful rays to

one very cheeky turtle!

Even better? 100% of your

ticket supports oceansaving

conservation work.

*Group discounts are only

available for parties of 12

or more paying guests,

when part of a formal

group or travel organiser,

booked in advance. (those

eligible for free entry, as

listed on their website,

don’t count towards the

total). T&C's apply.

Anything else let them

know,

www.nationalaquarium.co.uk

26

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Visits

Guided Tours

45%

GROUP DISCOUNT FOR

GROUPS OF 15 OR MORE

Our discounted rates for all

Guided Tours will provide you with:

Full admission

Daily animal talks

Access to primate domes

and reptile centres

Historic fort

Free parking for coaches

Free entry, food and drink

for group tour leader and

coach driver

E

Contact Sarah

T 01983 403883

M 07774 944700

sarah.burridge@wildheartanimalsanctuary.org

Yaverland Seafront, Sandown, Isle of Wight PO36 8QB

wildheartanimalsanctuary.org

GROUP VISITS TO THE

UK’S NATIONAL AQUARIUM

Book your 12+ group visits to the UK’s

National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth

BOOKING ENQUIRIES

SCAN HERE

---

Group Travel Today

Stunning Sussex

Stunning Sussex invites groups to discover charming seaside resorts, rolling countryside, grand houses

and lively market towns, creating rewarding days out filled with character, culture and coastal air.

experience that transcends the

ordinary.

Set within an ancient deer park

below the South Downs, Parham is

one of the country’s finest

Elizabethan Houses. Parham has

always been a well-loved family

home, and only three families have

lived here since its foundation stone

was laid in 1577. Its tranquillity and

timeless beauty have changed little

over the centuries.

Bluebell Railway

Embark on a captivating adventure

aboard the Bluebell Railway in 2026,

where the splendor of Sussex's

landscapes meets the nostalgia of

the golden age of travel. This isn't just

a train ride; it's a journey through

time, perfect for groups yearning for

a unique and memorable

experience. Your adventure begins at

Sheffield Park, home to

STEAMWORKS!, a fascinating

exhibition of static locomotives and

interactive displays that captivate

visitors of all ages. Dive into history at

their museum or explore their gift

and model shop for unique souvenirs.

Before or after your journey, savor a

delightful meal in their restaurant,

offering a variety of hot dishes,

beverages, and snacks.

which connects with the national rail

station to London. For groups, the

Bluebell Railway offers a plethora of

options: catering trains, joint tickets

with local attractions, and guided

tours of Sheffield Park Station,

ensuring there's always something

exciting on the agenda. Throughout

the year, the railway hosts an array

of events, guaranteeing a lively and

engaging visit.

The award-winning gardens consist

of beautiful Pleasure Grounds and a

four-acre Walled Garden. There are

stunning herbaceous borders, a 1920s

greenhouse, vegetable garden,

orchard and Wendy House. Enjoy

walks around the Pleasure Grounds

and lake and explore the variety of

fascinating wildlife. The Park is a Site

of Special Scientific Interest.

Discover a rare and precious

collection of paintings, furniture and

needlework. Guided tours are led by

their experienced Guides, while

unguided groups can benefit from

the knowledge of their room Guides,

who are ready and willing to answer

questions about the history of the

House and the objects within.

www.parhaminsussex.com

As the train steams through the

scenic countryside, the next stop is

Horsted Keynes, a beautifully

preserved Edwardian station,

continue to a quiet idyllic

countryside station at Kingscote and

finally, East Grinstead, the station

Parham House & Gardens

Don't miss the opportunity to book

your adventure with the Bluebell

Railway, where each journey is a

celebration of steam travel's magic,

promising an unforgettable

28

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28 March –

1 November 2026

5 th Apr - 11 th Oct 2026

TRIPADVISOR & GOOGLE

H O U S E & G A R D E N S

Set within an ancient deer park below the South Downs, Parham is

one of the country’s nest Elizabethan Houses.

brightonmuseums.org.uk

• Historic Elizabethan Family Home

• Four-Acre Walled Garden

• The Greenhouse

• Furniture, Paintings, & Textiles

• Joanna’s Boutique Tearoom

• Garden and Gift Shop

• Guided Tours

• Free Coach Parking

• Coach Driver Incentives

Parham oers a range of packages

for groups of over 20, including

guided tours and catering

Parham House & Gardens

Pulborough, West Sussex

RH20 4HR

01903 861266

www.parhaminsussex.co.uk

bookings@parhaminsussex.co.uk

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Group Travel Today

Focus on Kent

Focus on Kent explores a county rich in castles, gardens and coastline, offering groups a rewarding

mix of heritage, scenery and fascinating places to discover together.

Discover Tunbridge Wells, the Royal

Spa town

in the Garden of England

Royal Tunbridge Wells is a popular

destination for tours and groups,

conveniently situated just over an

hour from Dover and London and 25

minutes from the M25 network.

Whether dropping in for a few hours

or visiting for the day, there is plenty

to see and do.

destination with annual events

including music festivals, steam train

themed events, open air markets, TW

literary festival, classic cars, open air

cinema, ice skating, food festivals,

walking tours and seasonal events.

It has a wealth of history, visitors

have been visiting since the

discovery of the Chalybeate Spring

in 1606. The Wells became a favourite

destination for royalty and

aristocratic society, the place to be

seen, and in 1909 it received its

‘Royal’ status from King Edward VII.

Queen Victoria, used to holiday

here, and attended King Charles the

Martyr Church, where her ‘seat’ still

remains.

White Cliffs Country

White Cliffs Country offers an

inspiring destination for group visits,

combining dramatic coastal scenery

with fascinating history and

charming seaside towns. Groups can

explore the iconic White Cliffs of

Dover, enjoy the impressive medieval

setting of Dover Castle, or discover

the historic streets of Sandwich and

the attractive seafront at Deal.

The area provides a wealth of

experiences, from heritage

attractions and coastal walks to

independent shops, cafés and

cultural venues. With excellent

coach facilities and expert itinerary

advice available, planning a

memorable visit is straightforward for

organisers.

Whether groups are looking for a day

out rich in history, fresh sea air, or a

traditional English coastal

atmosphere, White Cliffs Country

delivers a rewarding and varied

experience for every traveller.

www.whitecliffscountry.org.uk

Culturally, explore the home of

Decimus Burton architecture, The

Pantiles, two thriving theatres, an

award-winning grassroots music

venue, The Spa Valley Railway and

The Amelia Scott Cultural Hub. A full

day may also take in nearby Scotney

Castle, Penshurst Place or Hever

Castle, all within a 30 minute drive.

The town is an all-year round

Today, Tunbridge Wells is also a

premier hospitality and shopping

location with over 250 places to eat

and drink and hundreds of big brands

and boutique independents spread

across The Old High Street, Chapel

Place, Royal Victoria Place Shopping

Mall and The Pantiles. The town also

has dedicated coach parking bays

five minutes’ walk from the town

centre or The Pantiles.

For more information visit

www.visittunbridgewells.com/tours

30

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White Cliffs Country

for groups

For more information on places to visit, things to do and where to stay

in the Dover, Deal and Sandwich area, including coach facilities and

itinerary advice, please contact us.

samantha.stanley@dover.gov.uk • 01304 872411

www.whitecliffscountry.org.uk/business-hub/travel-trade

@visitdover @whitecliffscountry

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Group Travel Today

Perfect for Groups

A curated collection of standout attractions, experiences and venues designed with groups in mind,

making planning easier and ensuring memorable, well-organised visits for every itinerary.

Coaches are welcomed, the

arrival feels organised rather

than chaotic, and there’s plenty

of breathing space to keep

everyone happy.

Inside, guided tours bring the

castle’s story to life through

lavish State Rooms, fine art, and

those delicious historical details

that make people lean in and

whisper, “Imagine living here.”

Outside, the gardens and estate

walks offer a gentler pace, ideal

for chatty strolls and photos

that everyone will pretend were

spontaneous.

Waddesdon Manor is the sort of

place that makes you pause middrive

and think, “Right this is why we

come out.” Built by Baron Ferdinand

de Rothschild in the 19th century, it’s

a dazzling French Renaissance-style

château set above immaculately

landscaped gardens, with sweeping

views across the Buckinghamshire

countryside.

For groups, it’s a superb all-round day

out: grand interiors filled with worldclass

art and treasure, beautifully

curated seasonal displays, and

gardens that reward a slow wander

(with plenty of “ooh” moments for

the camera roll). There’s also

excellent dining on site, plus

shopping for gifts that don’t feel like

the usual afterthought.

Better still, it’s exceptionally well

organised a key detail when you’re

arriving by coach and working to a

timetable.

Belvoir Castle

Belvoir Castle rises above the

Vale of Belvoir like something

dreamt up by an overconfident

Romantic poet: turrets, towers,

and a view that makes you stand

a little straighter without

knowing why. For groups, it’s a

superb day out because it

balances grandeur with ease.

Round it off with tea and cake

in the café, and you’ve got a

group day that feels properly

special without feeling like hard

work.

groups@belvoircastle.com or

call 01476 871006

Photograph: RJ Brown

Find out more and plan your visit at:

www.waddesdon.org.uk

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Explore our French chateau

Discover our amazing art

Stroll around our beautiful grounds

Taste our vintage wines

Welcome to Waddesdon

(only an hour from London or Oxford)

waddesdon.org.uk

For bookings and enquiries, please contact groups@waddesdon.org.uk

© Waddesdon Image Library, Chris Lacey

2026 SUMMER COACH TOURS

BELVOIR CASTLE

£20pp

for a group

free flow

ticket

(min of 15 people)

WHAT THE

BUTLER

SAW

T O U R

T O U R

T H E

VINEYARD

T O U R

To book a group tour at Belvoir Castle please contact

groups@belvoircastle.com or call 01476 871006

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Group Travel Today

SAGA

University and college holidays

One free place for every 20 places

booked

Whether you are travelling as a club,

society or group of friends, or want

to reconnect with university alumni,

their four brand-new university and

college holidays are perfect for

groups. Saga was the first holiday

company to offer stays based at

universities and colleges in the UK,

and as part of their 75th anniversary

celebrations they have reintroduced

them into their portfolio with a

modern twist.

Why not visit historic Canterbury

from the International College, Kings

School, or discover Georgian

architecture from Chichester

University? Stay on the Southwest

coast from Falmouth – Penryn’s

University Campus, or explore

charming Colchester from the

University of Essex.

Designed for people over 50, they

offer something different – a new

style of accommodation,

unbeatable well-placed locations,

peak summer season at great prices,

and a sociable atmosphere. These

holidays might be the breath of fresh

air you need, a great alternative to

the traditional hotel city break.

To find out more, scan the QR code,

visit saga.co.uk/university or call their

travel experts FREE on 0800 988 5894

or email group.travel@saga.co.uk

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BRAND-NEW HOLIDAYS

New for Saga 2026

UNIVERSITY AND

COLLEGE HOLIDAYS

ONE FREE PLACE FOR EVERY 20 PLACES BOOKED

UK holidays inspired by our heritage

Whether you are travelling as a club, society or group of friends, or

want to reconnect with university alumni, our four brand-new university

and college holidays are perfect for groups. Saga was the first holiday

company to offer stays based at universities and colleges in the UK, and

as part of our 75th anniversary celebrations we have reintroduced them

into our portfolio with a modern twist.

Designed for people over 50, they offer something different – a new style

of accommodation in Canterbury, Chichester, Colchester and Falmouth,

unbeatable well-placed locations, peak summer season at great prices,

and a sociable atmosphere. These holidays might be the breath of fresh

air you need, a great alternative to the traditional hotel city break with

our return nationwide shared chauffeur service included too.

7 nights from £1099 pp

HALF BOARD

Departures between July and September 2026

Including

• Nationwide shared chauffeur service^

• Cancellation cover

• Half board with breakfast and dinner

• Two nights of live entertainment

• Two half-day excursions

• Welcome drinks reception

• Saga host

• Single rooms at no extra cost

To find out more, scan the QR code,

visit saga.co.uk/university or call our

travel experts FREE on 0800 988 5894

or email group.travel@saga.co.uk

Saga is exclusively designed for people over 50, but a travelling companion can be 40+. ^Please note: A return nationwide shared chauffeur service is available to all

guests on the UK mainland. Saga reserves the right to select the most appropriate form of transport for your journey. You could be sharing the journey with up to

three (or very occasionally five) other Saga passengers in one of our larger MPVs. Published April 2026. NHA-GH2294

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Explore

...and STAY

EVENTS

The castle hosts year round events for all the

family from school holiday activities, open air

cinema, live music and much more.

HISTORY

Ludlow's recorded history begins in

1086 when the impressive castle was

first developed. It has played a key

role in English history.

ACCOMMODATION

Live like royalty in one of our

self-catering apartments bursting

with charm and character.

BOOK NOW

WWW.LUDLOWCASTLE.COM