award winning calibre travel - 2016_feb15_v7.pdf · dunwich, where we enjoy lunch at flora...

Quality Holidays & Day Excursions by Coach

2016

Local Boarding Points • No Feeder Coaches

Award winning

Calibre Travel

2 Bookings & enquiries: 01245 382397

Bookings & enquiries

01245 382397Mobile 07899 738 963 Website www.boons-holidays.co.uk Email [email protected]

Opening Hours 9am – 6pm, 7 days(if we are not in a position to immediately answer yourcall, please leave an answerphone message; call or textour mobile; or email your enquiry)

Methods ofPaymentWe acceptpayment viacheque, banktransfer, cash,credit card anddebit card.Please refer to page 24 for further details

Gift Vouchers

Stuck for ideas forChristmas, birthdays or any other specialoccasion? Our gift vouchers makea popular and muchappreciated present forfriends and family.Vouchers can be issuedfor any amount and areredeemable for bothday excursions andholidays.

CALL US NOW!01245 382397

A very warm welcome to ourexciting brochure for 2016;

packed full with a wonderfulselection of holidays, shortbreaks and day excursions.Our aim, as ever, is to give youthe best coach travel experiencepossible, and our itineraries have

been carefully planned with yourpleasure and enjoyment in mind.

As usual, we have included some newtours, alongside the familiar favourites,

and feel confident that you will findsomething of interest.

For all of our holidays and short breaks, all excursions are included in thetour price, and for most destinations, visits to places of interest en-routeare possible; making travelling days enjoyable, rather than days to beendured.

In order to maintain and improve our service, we positively encourage you to give us feedback on your experiences. We appreciate all of yourcomments, so please keep writing, emailing and telephoning; we love tohear from you.

We are greatly looking forward to the pleasure of your company during2016 and wish you all a happy and healthy year ahead.

Don’t miss out...call us now on 01245 382397The difference is... we care...

Award winning

Calibre Travel

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3Information: www.boons-holidays.co.uk

About UsThe Boon’s name has been associated with

the travel industry for over 70 years. In 1993, Suzanne Evans established Boon’s

Calibre Travel alongside the well respectedBoreham coach hire business, Boon’sCoaches, to specialise in the provision ofquality coach tours and day excursions.

Today, Suzanne, who was born in Boreham,runs the business from the neighbouring village

of Hatfield Peverel, using vehicles supplied byKings Coaches, an established family firm ofmore than 60 years standing. She is married toAlan and they have two sons, Matthew andDavid.

Boon’s Calibre Travel is committed topromoting quality tours and excursionsto the exacting standards expectedfrom a company bearing the Boon’sname, while still retaining thecaring family ethos, which is soimportant, and yet, is sadly lackingin today's world.

The company’s success in local,regional and national industry awards,in particular for excellent customerservice, is indicative of Suzanne’s commitmentto the business and her clients.

We hope that after reading through our brochure, youwill be inspired to travel with us. We have put onpaper the facts concerning each holiday, short breakand day excursion, however, the “ family” atmospherethat prevails on our tours cannot be expressed in blackand white, so we invite you to join our many regularcustomers (indeed friends) to experience for yourselveswhat we have to offer.

We very much look forward to meeting you soon.

Hector Boon and hisrestored 1950 Bedford,which was operatedalongside the modernfleet during the 80's

All holidays & shortbreaks feature...

Accommodation of 3 star standard or above, unlessstated otherwise En-suite bedroomsBreakfast & evening meal*All listed excursionsLocal boarding pointsNo feeder coaches No interchanges

* unless stated otherwise in the tourdescription

A message from the proprietor

The boys, summer 2015

Contents PAGES

General Information 2 –3Day Excursions 4 –7Holidays & Short Breaks 8 –23Easter Weekend…Charming Cheshire & the Mersey Beat 8The Cream of Cornwall in Springtime 9Hardy’s Delightful Dorset 10Colonial Elegance on the English Riviera 11Scottish Panorama - Isle of Arran, Stirling & the Trossachs 12Picturebook Yorkshire 13Peaks, Pints, Pots & Petals 14Lakeland Treasures, Dales Delights & the Lancashire Rose 15The Splendours of Snowdonia & North Wales 16Genteel, Victorian Southsea & Charms of the South Coast 17Wonders of the West Country 18Treasures of the Yorkshire & Lincolnshire Wolds 19Shades of Gold…Eastbourne & the South Downs 20Magnificent Chatsworth’s Christmas Market 21Thursford Christmas Spectacular 21Mistletoe & Wine at the Rosemundy 22Christmas in Shropshire & the Severn Valley 23General Information & Group Discounts 24Booking a Holiday or Short Break 25 –31Awards & Contact Details Back page


Day Excursions 2016A selection of carefully planned Day Excursions for your pleasure & enjoymentUnless otherwise stated, we require a non-refundable £10 per person deposit on booking, with the balance 6 weeksprior to travel (see page 7 for other terms).

William Morris Gallery & lunchat the Grim’s Dyke HotelThursday 28th April

This excursion takes us to the WilliamMorris Gallery, where we learn aboutBritain’s most revolutionary Victoriandesigner, who took inspiration for histextiles, furniture and ceramics fromnature; using birds, plants & animals inhis unique designs. Our afternoon willbe spent at the Grade II listed 4* Grim’sDyke Hotel, the magnificent formercountry residence of Sir William Gilbert(Gilbert & Sullivan), where we take lunchin Gilberts, the AA rosette restaurant,and stroll in the peaceful gardens &woodlands (includes 2-course lunch &admission to gallery)Adult/S.C: £44.95

The Thursford Collection & behind-the-scenes tourTuesday 17th MayIn addition to the ChristmasSpectacular, there is much to see anddo at Thursford at other times of theyear. See the world’s largest collection of steam engines and organs, hearRobert Wolfe on the mighty Wurlitzer,ride on fairground carousels, enjoyrefreshments in the Barn Restaurantand shop in the olde worlde village. We have also included an enjoyable'Behind-the-Scenes' guided tour to see the huge wardrobe of exquisitecostumes and flamboyant head-dressesworn in the Christmas Spectacular,along with the decorations whichtransform the museum into a winterwonderland (includes admission & tour).Adult/S.C: £43.95 (Not B & S)

High Weald & lunch at theBendenden BullWednesday 25th MayToday we visit the High Weald of Kent,an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.Our scenic route takes us through theWeald villages of Frant, Wadhurst,Ticehurst, Flimwell and Hawkhurst tothe idyllic village of Benenden, home ofthe Bull PH. We enjoy a lovely lunch,before making our way throughTenterden, Headcorn, Borough Green &Seal to the Polhill Garden Centre, wherewe have time for refreshments &shopping. (Includes 2-course lunch,tea/coffee)Adult/S.C: £46.95

The Shuttleworth Collection & Swiss GardenThursday 16th JuneOur first stop today is fabulous VanHage’s, with its treasure-trove of giftsand items for the home & garden.Continuing on, we arrive at themagnificent Shuttleworth Collection, atraditional glass aerodrome housing aworld-famous collection of aircraftdating from 1909 to 1942, plus vintagecars, motorcycles and horse-drawnvehicles. Alongside is the recentlyrestored, Regency Swiss Garden, acharming early 19th century landscapegarden, with plants from all over theworld, ponds, bridges, rose arbours,miniature buildings, a grotto andfernery, and a tiny, thatched SwissCottage (includes admissions)Adult/S.C: £45.95

Des O’Connor & Jimmy TarbuckSunday 26th June

Des O’Connor joins Jimmy Tarbuck, liveon stage, for this one off appearance.Two legends of television, show-business and the Royal VarietyPerformance come together,accompanied by music and video, to

Spring Tour with lunch atBosworthsWednesday 6th AprilOur circular spring tour takes usthrough Chipping Ongar, Fyfield, theRodings, Great Dunmow and MedievalThaxted to beautiful Finchingfield,renowned for its picture-postcard villagegreen, duck pond and post mill. After alovely carvery lunch in Bosworth’s TeaRooms, we return home via SteepleBumpstead, Baythorne End, GreatYeldham, Sible Hedingham, Halstead &Earls Colne, stopping en-route at PoplarNurseries, a leading independentgarden centre selling gifts and items forthe home, with a restaurant & a wellstocked farm shop (includes carverymain course & tea/coffee – sweets areextra, payable on the day). Adults/SC: £38.95 (Not B & S)

Chitty Chitty Bang BangTuesday 19th April

With a host of stars from stage & screen,the fabulous, Chitty Chitty Bang Banglands at the Cliffs Pavilion. One of theworld’s favourite musicals, theadventures of the loveable but whackyinventor, Caractacus Potts, along withhis two children and the gorgeous TrulyScrumptious will have audiences of allages flying high with its mixture ofmadness, intrigue and exuberance, asthey strive to outwit the bombasticBaron Bomburst and the evil ChildCatcher.Cliffs Pavilion, Southend. Top price seats.7.30pm perf.Adults: £56.95, S.C: £54.95, U16: £49.95


captivating stories of the inhabitants -both past and present – we also learnwhat life is like for today’s veterans(includes guided tour).Adults/S.C: £42.50

Historic Hitchin & theLavender FieldsTuesday 19th JulyHistoric Hitchin in Hertfordshire hasbeen a vibrant market town for over1000 years and boasts one of thelargest open air traditional markets inthe country. Time to browse amongstthe many stalls, before we pay anafternoon visit to nearby HitchinLavender, where we take a guided tourthrough the lavender rows and pick our own fresh flowers. A beautiful 17thcentury barn sells refreshments,lavender products and plants (includesguided tour & tea/coffee)Adults/S.C: £39.95

Sleepy Southwold & lunch inDelightful DunwichThursday 28th July.Today’s ever popular tour commenceswith a coffee stop at the welcomingNotcutts Garden Centre in Woodbridge.Continuing on, through rolling expansesof broom and heather, we reach theformer Roman and Medieval port ofDunwich, where we enjoy lunch at FloraTearooms, reputedly the best fish andchip restaurant in East Anglia. We spendthe afternoon in the quiet, unspoilt,seaside resort of Southwold, with itspicturesque greens, pretty cottages,19th century lighthouse, pier andcolourful beach huts (includes 2-coursefish & chip lunch with tea/coffee –salads are available).Adults/S.C: £43.95 (Not B & S)

Elegant Richmond & a tour ofthe Poppy FactoryWednesday 17th August

Today we visit elegant Richmond uponThames, a favourite retreat of Royalty,the rich & the famous, with its beautifulparks and open spaces, many eateries

reminisce and entertain for one nightonly. Don’t miss this chance to see Desand Jimmy together, in what will also bea night of theatrical history, brought toSouthend, following their sell-out showat the London Palladium.Cliffs Pavilion, Southend. Top price seats.7.30pm perf. Balance due: 26/4/16 Adults/S.C./Child: £49.95

Blooms of Bressingham &lunch at the OaklandsTuesday 28th JuneOn leaving our local boarding points wemake our way to Diss, where we stop forcoffee at Blooms of Bressingham, withits wide array of plants, garden productsand gifts for the home. Continuing on,we arrive at the welcoming, familyowned Oaklands hotel, situated inbeautiful gardens, overlooking the YareValley, on the outskirts of the city ofNorwich. We enjoy a lovely carvery lunchbefore returning home (includes 2-course carvery lunch)Adults/S.C: £39.95 (Not B & S)

Musical – ChicagoThursday 30th June

The international award winningmusical, Chicago, is based on events inthe roaring 1920s; nightclub singerRoxie Hart shoots her lover and, alongwith Cell Block rival, double-murderessVelma Kelly, they fight to keep fromdeath row with the help of smoothtalking lawyer, Billy Flynn. Starring JohnPartridge (Eastenders) as Billy Flynn,Hayley Tamaddon (Coronation Street) asRoxie Hart, and Sam Bailey (X Factor) asMatron ‘Mama’ Morton!!Cliffs Pavilion, Southend. Top price seats.8pm perf.Adults: £54.50, S.C: £52, U16: £37

The Royal Hospital Chelsea(Chelsea Pensioners)Friday 8th JulyToday we visit the Royal HospitalChelsea in the heart of London, the 300-year-old home to the iconic ChelseaPensioners. The Royal Hospital is aGrade I and II listed site, a beautifularchitectural legacy left to the nation byCharles II and Sir Christopher Wren. Wetake a guided walking tour, led by aresident Chelsea Pensioner, anddiscover the history behind this uniquenational institution and hear the

and fine shopping areas. The afternoonwill be spent at the nearby PoppyFactory, where we will be greeted withtea & biscuits, prior to an informativeguided tour, which includes a talk, videopresentation and a walk round thefactory floor to see the poppies andwreaths being made. Afterwards therewill be the opportunity to purchasesouvenirs from the gift shop (includestour & refreshments) Note: Numbersare limited to 34.Adults/S.C: £31.50

Suffolk Villages & lunch at theFour HorseshoesThursday 1st SeptemberToday we make our way to the prettyvillage of Thornham Magna where wetake lunch at reputedly the oldest pub inSuffolk, the Four Horseshoes; a familyrun 12th Century thatched Inn, as lovelyon the inside, as it is strikingly beautifulon the outside. Our return journey takesus via the pretty villages of Eye &Debenham to Stonham Barns, where wehave time to visit the shops and Cartersof Suffolk, makers of collectable &novelty tea pots for almost 40 yrs(includes 2-course meal, tea/coffee)Adults/S.C: £44.95 (Not B & S)

The BuckinghamshireChilterns, Henley & MarlowSaturday 10th September

Our excursion today takes us throughthe peaceful wooded lanes andpicturesque towns and villages of theBuckinghamshire Chilterns, with visits to the picturesque riverside towns ofHenley & Marlow. After a coffee stop atNottcuts Garden Centre nr St Albans, we make our way to Henley “Queen ofthe Thames” one of the most beautifultowns in England and location for someMidsomer Murders! Time for lunch inone of the many cafes, shopping in theGeorgian fronted High Street, orperhaps a stroll by the river, before wecontinue on to Marlow, equally beautiful,with its magnificent 19th Centurysuspension bridge crossing the Thames.We return via Beaconsfield, Amersham,with its collection of thatched cottages,Chesham & Bovington.Adults/S.C: £34.50


shoes for over 75 years. We hear talesfrom the lovely team, and see, first-hand,the skills that have stood the test of time,from cutting leathers and attaching theuppers & heels, through to adding thefinishing touches with the elegant VanDal branded trims. After the tour, therewill be time to browse in the factory shop(includes tour). Note: Numbers arelimited to 34.Adults/S.C: £31.50 (Not B & S)Ely Cathedral Christmas Gift & Food FairFri 18th or Sat 19th NovToday’s excursion takes us to beautiful,historic Ely, where we experience thehugely successful Christmas Gift andFood Fair, held in the city’s finecathedral, one of the most magnificent inEngland. Ample time to find that perfectgift or unique festive decoration, beforewe head for home (includes admission)Date & price available March. (NOT B & S)See below for advance booking information*

Musical – Sister Act(with lunch)Saturday 26th NovemberSister Act, based on the smash hit moviestaring Whoopi Goldberg, and directedby Strictly’s Craig Revel Horwood, is thefunniest musical comedy around.Deloris Van Cartier, a disco diva,witnesses a murder. Under protectivecustody she is hidden in the one placeshe won’t be found – a Convent!Disguised as a nun, Deloris helps herfellow sisters find their voices, as sheunexpectedly rediscovers her own, withhilarious consequences. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend. Top price seats.2.30pm perf. 2-course lunch includedAdults: £71.50, S.C: £69.50, U16: £66.50

Thursford ChristmasSpectacular

November/DecemberJoin us for the matinee performance ofthis ever-popular Christmasextravaganza…as we walk through thedoors we are greeted by a spectacle ofcolour, Christmas decorations adorn thetheatre as we sit down ready to bethrilled by the lights, music and nostalgiaof this wonderful show. (Thursford ticket

Jane McDonald Thursday 15th SeptemberSinger and TV star, Jane McDonald, oneof the nation’s favourite entertainers,returns to the Cliffs Pavilion with herbrand new show. An exciting andemotionally charged evening of musicand laughter, featuring many best lovedsongs from her incredible career.Together with fantastic musicians andbacking singers, Jane brings theaudience to their feet with this ultimatefeel-good show. This is one night youwon’t want to miss! Cliffs Pavilion, Southend. Top price seats.8pm perf. Balance due: 15/7/16Adults: £55.95, S.C: £54.45

Chas & Dave Saturday 17th September The cockney duo, Chas & Dave, reallyknow how to give their audience a goodtime, and continue to sell out theatres allover the UK. Over the past two years theyhave headlined The Royal Variety Show,sold out The Royal Albert Hall, performedan arena tour with Status Quo andperformed at the VE Day Concert. So dueto public demand, performing all the hitsthat made them famous, they are here inSouthend once more.Cliffs Pavilion, Southend. Top price seats.8pm perf. Balance due: 17/7/16 Adults/S.C: £49.95

Historic Dedham & lunch atthe Lavenham SwanMonday 3rd OctoberToday’s tour takes us across country, viaGreat Horkesley, Nayland andLavenheath, to beautiful Lavenham, thefinest medieval village in England, wherewe take lunch at the stunning 15thcentury, 4 * Swan Hotel, with its award-winning restaurant. After lunch, we makeour way via picturesque Monk Eleigh andancient Hadleigh to the attractive villageof Dedham, in the heart of ConstableCountry, with its main street lined withGeorgian-fronted houses, old inns,tearooms and a large art/crafts centre(includes two-course lunch) Adults/S.C: £44.50 (Not B & S)

Norwich & the Van Dal Shoe Factory TourThursday 13th OctoberToday we travel to the medieval city ofNorwich, with its historic streets,magnificent cathedral and extensiveshopping areas. The afternoon will bespent at the Van Dal Shoe factory, one ofthe country’s last remaining traditionalshoe factories, manufacturers of ladies

included). Sorry no children under 8 yrs.Dates & prices available March. Balance due: 22/8/16 (Not B & S)See below for advance bookinginformation*For Thursford 2-day breaks, see p.21

Snape Maltings ChristmasSpectacularDecember

Following last years successful visit toSnape Maltings Concert Hall in Suffolk,we again take our seats for the Co-opJuniors Theatre Company’s ChristmasSpectacular; The Snow Queen…a frozenmusical. The Co-op Juniors are thelargest amateur theatre group in the UK and were established during WW2.The cast includes performers of all ages,from children through to adults, and theyhave an excellent reputation for theirwork. Snape Maltings also boasts a rangeof independent craft and gift shops, tearoom and a restaurant. Date & priceavailable March. (Not B & S)See below for advance bookinginformation*

New Years Eve Viennese Gala ConcertSaturday 31st DecemberBack by popular demand…for the ninthyear running…a spectacular night out atLondon’s Barbican Concert Hall. Heraldthe New Year with a sumptuous eveningof traditional Viennese favourites withthe Royal Philharmonic Orchestra ledfrom the violin by John Georgiadis(performance commences at 7.30pmand finishes approx 10pm). Priceavailable June/July.See below for advance bookinginformation**For Thursford, Ely, Snape & NewYears Eve, please call to add yourname to our advance booking list,no commitment, but you will be thefirst to be contacted when we arenotified of dates, ticket prices &booking terms. (Not B & S) = No Shenfield &Brentwood pickups


How to book your Day ExcursionTerms & Conditions (Day Excursions, Theatres & Concerts)1a For direct bookings, either full payment, or the

specified deposit, must be made on booking.Where a deposit is paid, the balance must beforwarded by the balance due date (either 6weeks prior to departure, or the date specifiedin the excursion description) otherwise ticket(s)will be offered for resale and the depositforfeited. For some excursions involving theatreor concert tickets, there may be other paymentterms, however, this will be made clear in theexcursion description.

1b If booking through an agent, full payment mustbe made on booking.

2a Cancellation/transfer of direct bookings: oncetickets are purchased (or deposits paid) refundswill be made, minus the value of the deposit, upuntil the balance due date. After this date, norefunds will be made, but if you are unable totravel you may pass your ticket to a substitute. Ifyou ask us to re-sell tickets we will endeavour todo so, however, there will be an administrativecharge equivalent to either 20% of the full ticketvalue or to the value of the deposit (whichever isgreater) if we are successful. You may transferyour booking, to another departure (within thecurrent season), up until the balance due date,after this date full cancellation charges apply. Forsome excursions involving theatre or concerttickets, there may be other cancellation/transferterms, however, this will be made clear in theexcursion description.

2b Cancellation/transfer of agent bookings: norefunds will be made unless we are able to re-sell tickets, in which case, we will deal directlywith the customer & make a 30% charge tocover administration & agent’s commission. Youmay transfer your booking to a substitute or itmay be possible to transfer to anotherdeparture, subject to the terms in 2a.

3 Please refer to pages 25 and 28 for our policy oninfectious & contagious diseases, which appliesto all departures.

4 Coaches are designated non-smoking; wereserve the right to terminate the journey ofanyone who does not comply with this ruling.

5 No alcoholic drinks are to be consumed oncoaches

6 No animals are to be transported on coaches. 7 We reserve the right to cancel any trip that is

financially unviable due to a low number ofpeople booked, in which case all monies will berefunded. No further liability is accepted. Wealso reserve the right to cancel, at any time, dueto the unforeseen circumstances described initem 9.

8 We reserve the unconditional right to curtail thejourney of (a) anyone likely to cause the spreadof Infectious/ Contagious diseases (b) anyonecausing distress to others through unreasonableconduct. No refunds will be given & we will notbe held responsible for any expense incurred.

9 We cannot be held liable for any late arrivals dueto circumstances beyond our control. Forexample delays due to: road works, road trafficaccidents, other traffic incidents, and acts ofterrorism such as bomb scares, medicalincidents concerning passengers, freak weatherconditions, fire, industrial disputes and othersimilar events beyond our control. We accept noliability for any expense incurred due tounforeseen occurrences such as cancellation ofshows, concerts and events.

10 If you have an unresolved complaint duringyour day excursion, please refer to pages 25 &26 for our complaints procedure, which appliesto all departures.

Day Excursion Boarding PointsAdditional boarding points areavailable for holidays & shortbreaks, see pages 27 & 28

Colchester

Stanway, Kings Coaches depot& Tollgate Centre*

Marks Tey, Feering & Kelvedon

Witham (Old Post Office, Town Hall, Bridge Hosp)

Hatfield Peverel & Boreham

Springfield, A12 services

North Springfield

Chelmer Village Way (ASDA & Henniker Gate)

Springfield Rd (Plough, Lionmede & Balmoral Ct)

Chelmsford, Victoria Road

Chelmsford, New London Road

Chelmsford, Waterhouse Lane

Chelmsford, Wood Street

Chelmsford, Gloucester Avenue

Gt Baddow & Galleywood

Stock & Margaretting

Ingatestone & Mountnessing

Shenfield & Brentwood**

Maldon/Heybridge/Langford

Please note: * There is limited car parking at

Kings Coaches depot inStanway;

** Brentwood and Shenfieldnot available for departuresmarked (Not B&S)

All of the boarding points listedabove are available at the time ofbooking, should they be required,however, due to natural demandonly a selection will be utilised forany one particular excursion. If youbook within 14 days of departureonly those boarding points alreadyselected will be available to you.

How to book your Day Excursion 1 Call Suzanne on 01245 382 397

to check availability and place aprovisional booking. You may alsoemail your requirements to:

[email protected] Read our Terms & Conditions and

forward your payment, along withyour name, address, telephonenumber, excursion title, excursiondate and boarding point. Pleasemention any special needs; dietary,mobility etc. On booking, pleasepay* either (a) full amount or (b) thespecified deposit, with the balanceby the specified due date. If you payby card or bank transfer, bookinginformation can be given verbally orby email.

3 We do not issue writtenconfirmations for excursionpayments. Your tickets, along withyour boarding time, will be forwardedby post, at least 7 days prior to theexcursion departure date.

* If you require a receipt for your payment priorto the tickets being issued please enclose a SAE.Alternatively, please supply your email addressand we will email a receipt for your payment(s)

Children under 3 yrs of age travelfree of charge on day excursions,reduced rates for older children areavailable on some departures,please call for details.Group reductions apply for groups of 7 fare paying passengers & above (see page 24 for details).Please make all cheques payable to: Boon’s Calibre Travel.

Alternatively, you may wish to book through one of ourappointed agents:

First Bus ChelmsfordFirst Bus ColchesterWitham Visitor InformationCentreMaldon Tourist InformationCentre Gallivant Travel (Ingatestone)

Group discounts cannot beapplied if booking via an agent.All excursions must be paid for infull if booking via an agent.

YOUR ITINERARY Day 1: We depart from our localboarding points, and after a break forrefreshments, make a lunchtime visitto historic Lichfield, a city famous forits stunning cathedral and as thebirthplace of Samuel Johnson, one ofthe greatest literary figures of the 18thcentury. Continuing on, we arrive atour hotel in good time for dinner.Day 2: Following breakfast today, weexplore the fascinating city ofLiverpool, renowned for its maritimehistory and world-beating musicalheritage. On arrival, we will be joinedby our guide, who will board the coachand accompany us on an entertaining“musical history tour”, taking in thesounds and sights of a city that hasprovided the world with a wealth oftalent. We spend the lunchtime periodat the revitalised waterfront area withits many shops and attractions,including the Merseyside Maritime

Museum, the Tate Liverpool and theaward-winning Beatles Story. Thisafternoon, either explore the city anddockside at leisure, or take a “Ferry’cross the Mersey” and enjoybreathtaking views with a fullcommentary (admissions forattractions and fare for cruise extra).Day 3: After breakfast this morning, we take a scenic route across Cheshire,home of the rich and famous, to theformer silk manufacturing town ofMacclesfield, known as “Treacletown”,situated on edge of the Peak District.Many years ago, a horse drawn wagonoverturned, spilling its cargo of treacleonto the town’s cobbles and everymonth the accident is rememberedwhen the town hosts a “TreacleMarket“, consisting of a multitude ofstalls selling a variety of goods. Afterlunch, we visit the village of Daresbury,birthplace of Lewis Carroll. Carroll’s lifeand work is celebrated at the Lewis


INCLUSIONS• 3 nights half-board in en-suitebedrooms • porterage • lift • ground floor rooms • leisure centre • Easter egg • 2 excursions • visits onoutward & return journeys • guided tour of Liverpool • Lewis Carroll talk withrefreshments

Join us for Easter weekend in the beautiful county of Cheshire and thethriving city of Liverpool. On Saturday, a tour guide will board our coach to bring alive the history of Liverpool and remind us of its massivecontribution to the world of entertainment and music. On Sunday, we visitMacclesfield’s Treacle Market and then Daresbury Church, where we learnabout the village’s most famous son, Lewis Carroll. In addition, we spendtime in the literary city of Lichfield and historic Worcester en-route.

Carroll Centre and in All Saints Church,where there is an “Alice in Wonderland”stained glass window. We enjoy afascinating talk with refreshments,before returning to our hotel.Day 4: After breakfast, we make ourway home, stopping en-route at thehistoric city of Worcester, famous forRoyal Worcester porcelain and itsmagnificent Norman cathedral.Continuing on, we travel trough themellow villages of the Cotswolds andarrive back in Essex early evening.HOTELPark Royal HHHH

A warm welcome awaits at the ParkRoyal, a fantastic 4* hotel whichblends a beautiful mix of modernfacilities with elegant grandeur; partof the hotel having been built in 1831. All beautifully designed en-suitebedrooms are contemporary, wellfurnished and attractively co-ordinated. There are some bedroomson the ground floor and theremainder are accessed via a lift.Meals are taken in the stylishrestaurant and there is a leisurecentre with indoor swimming pool.

Friday 25th March 2016

4 Days £335per person

SUPPLEMENTSTwin/double room for singleoccupancy: £30 (first 12, £45 thereafter)

Easter Weekend… Charming Cheshire & the Mersey Beat

The Cream of Cornwall in Springtime

Monday 11th April 2016

5 Days £429 per person

SUPPLEMENTSSingle supplement: £NIL (5 only)Supplement for double/twinroom for sole occupancy: £40

Spring arrives early in Cornwall and is usually considered to have“sprung” when the Magnolias burst into flower around mid-March. Whilstthe county is a delight to visit at any time of the year, springtime is generally considered the best time to visit, when the famous gardensare a riot of bloom and the countryside is awash with colour. Our tourtakes in two of the Great Gardens of Cornwall along with the prettyvillages of St Mawes, Port Isaac & St Agnes. We also visit the beautifulLizard & Roseland Peninsulas.

YOUR ITINERARY Day 1: We depart from our localboarding points and head for theSouthwest, stopping en-route forrefreshments and lunch. Day 2: After breakfast, we make ourway to the Roseland Peninsula, anArea of Outstanding Natural Beauty,with pretty villages and unrivalledcoastal scenery. The Roseland’sprincipal village, St Mawes, situated atits southern end, has a picturesqueharbour, with whitewashed houses,guarded by Henry VIII’s clover-leafshaped castle. This afternoon, we visitTrewithen, a magical garden, at itsbest in spring and regarded as one ofthe best in England, home to a wealthof exciting, rare and beautiful plantsand trees, including magnificentcamellias, magnolias, rhododendronsand azaleas.Day 3: This morning, we visit the prettyfishing village of Port Isaac, a popularfilm and TV location, most recentlytransformed into fictional Port Wenn,

for the comedy drama Doc Martin.Returning to St Agnes, we spend theremainder of the day at leisure, eitherrelaxing in our hotel or exploring thevillage, with its fascinating museum,beautiful beaches & breathtakingscenery. Look out for Stippy Stappy,the row of pretty sea captains cottageswhich tumble down the hillside, theremains of the stone built enginehouses, a reminder of the village’smining past, or perhaps take a walk tothe beautiful Trevaunance Cove. Day 4: Today, we explore the LizardPeninsula, the most southerly part ofthe British mainland and the site ofMarconi’s first radio signal in 1901. The Lizard’s mild climate and uniquegeology has produced an Area ofOutstanding Natural Beauty, with thecliffs at Lizard Point being noted fortheir sinister-sounding "Serpentine", a dark green rock, veined in red andwhite, which lends itself to beingcarved and polished. Continuing on,we take a scenic route, round Mounts

Bay, past the magical St MichaelsMount, to NT Trengwainton, asheltered garden bursting with exotictrees and shrubs, where spring alwaysarrives early. Ample time to explore theKitchen Garden and admire the WalledGardens, crammed full with plantsfrom around the world, before wereturn to St Agnes. (Entrance toTrengwainton extra, free for NTMembers).Day 5: After breakfast, we commenceour return journey, making suitablestops en-route for refreshments &lunch.HOTELRosemundy House Hotel HHH

Once again, we join our friends at thewelcoming, family run 3* RosemundyHouse Hotel, an elegant Queen Anneresidence dating back to the 1780’s,beautifully situated amongst secludedgardens and woodlands in thepicturesque coastal Cornish village ofSt Agnes. All well appointed en-suitebedrooms are on either the groundor first floor and there arecomfortable lounges to relax in.Excellent cuisine is served in theattractive restaurant and there isentertainment on some evenings.


INCLUSIONS• 4 nights half-board in en-suitebedrooms • porterage • groundfloor rooms • disabled rooms • evening entertainment • 3 excursions • entrance toTrewithen House & Garden.NOTE: no lift at hotel.

Hardy’s Delightful Dorset Monday 2nd May 2016

5 Days £429 per person

SUPPLEMENTSSingle supplement: £NIL (6 rooms only)Supplement for a doubleroom for single occupancy:£60 (4 rooms only)Sea view supplement: £80 perperson (double & twin roomsonly)

Join us for a relaxing break based in the South Coast's premier resort,Bournemouth; a perfect location from which to explore the delightfulcounty of Dorset, an area immortalised by one of its most famousresidents, the Victorian novelist & poet, Thomas Hardy. Our three includedexcursions offer plenty of variety; with visits to historic towns, traditionalseaside resorts and the stunning Athelhampton House & Gardens. Inaddition, there will be the opportunity to travel on the Swanage SteamRailway and to explore the cathedral city of Chichester and historic, RoyalWindsor en-route.

YOUR ITINERARY Day 1: We depart from our localboarding points, and make our waysouthward, stopping en-route at thePolhill Garden Centre and the historiccity of Chichester, with its magnificent12th century cathedral and fineGeorgian shopping area. Our journeycontinues through the beautiful NewForest and on to our hotel.Day 2: After breakfast this morning, we depart for an excursion into ruralDorset. Our route takes us along tree-lined country roads, to historicShaftesbury, the “Shaston” of ThomasHardy's novels, and one of the oldestand highest towns in England. Steepedin history and tradition, Shaftesburyboasts breathtaking views of thesurrounding countryside and Gold Hill, made famous by the Hovis Breadadvertisement, with its steep cobblesand picturesque cottages. On then toSherborne, without doubt, one of themost beautiful towns in England,boasting an abundance of medievalbuildings, a superb abbey and twocastles, as well as a delightful,traditional shopping area.

Day 3: Today, we visit the Isle ofPurbeck, where we board the SwanageSteam Railway for a nostalgic journeypast the striking ruins of Corfe Castle,through the countryside to theVictorian seaside resort of Swanage, atthe eastern edge of the world famousJurassic Coast. Ample opportunity toexplore the town with its pier, levelpromenade and sweeping, sandy bay,before returning to Bournemouth forsome time at leisure.Day 4: A full day excursionincorporating two of Dorset's manytreasures, both with connections toThomas Hardy and his family. ElegantWeymouth is a classic English seasideresort set on a beautiful Georgian bay,with a level promenade, colourfulharbour, busy marina and excellentpedestrianised shopping centre.Athelhampton House & Gardens is astunning 15th century house, burstingwith fascinating history, surrounded bytranquil formal gardens and boundedby the River Piddle.Day 5: On leaving our hotel, we makeour way home, stopping for morningrefreshments in the castle town of

Guildford, with its magnificent 20thcentury cathedral, Continuing on, wereach Royal Windsor, a wonderfullyhistoric town, with a multitude ofattractions, dominated by itsmagnificent castle. Ample opportunityto sightsee and take lunch, before wecomplete our journey homeward.HOTELCumberland HHH

Our hotel is the award-winning, 3*Cumberland, one of Bournemouth’sleading hotels. Although fullyrefurbished for today's traveller, thehotel has retained its original art decostyling and boasts well appointed en-suite bedrooms and spacious,comfortable public areas. TheCumberland is situated onBournemouth’s prestigious East Cliffwith many of the bedrooms boastinga sea view. The award-winningbeaches, gardens and vibrant citycentre are just a 10 minute walk away.There is a lift to all floors.


INCLUSIONS• 4 nights half-board in en-suitebedrooms • porterage • lift • 3 excursions • visits onoutward & return journeys • fare for Swanage Railway • entrance to Athelhampton • leisure facilities and eveningentertainment at neighbouringsister hotels

Colonial Elegance on the English Riviera

Sunday 5th June 2016


SUPPLEMENTSSingle supplement: £NIL (10 only)

A charming five-day break exploring South Devon, based at Paignton’swelcoming Redcliffe, one of our most popular hotels. Our tour includesfour exciting excursions, encompassing a variety of places of interest, withvisits to atmospheric Dartmoor, historic Totnes, the picture-postcardresorts of Babbacome & Salcombe, Victorian Torquay, maritime Plymouthand the delightful NT Saltram House. In addition, we also spend time incharming Bradford-upon-Avon and Georgian Weymouth en-route.

YOUR ITINERARY Day 1: We depart from our localboarding points and head for theSouthwest, stopping en-route in thecharming Wilshire town of Bradford-upon-Avon, with its delightful, narrowstreets, lined with attractive shops andcafes.Day 2: Today, we make our way intothe heart of rugged Dartmoor, wherewe visit the beautiful village ofWidecome-in-the Moor, of Uncle TomCobley & Widecome Fair fame; equallyfamous is its 14th century church of StPancras, “the Cathedral of the Moor”.On leaving Widecome, we take a tourof the atmospheric National Park, withits landscape of stunning views, aweinspiring granite tors, deep woodedvalleys with fast flowing rivers, ruggedwide open spaces and freely roamingDartmoor ponies. Day 3: After breakfast, we spend timeat leisure in the delightful resort ofPaignton, with its golden beaches,promenade, gardens, picturesqueharbour and the Dartmouth SteamRailway. Alternatively, join our morning

excursion to the historic, market townof Totnes, beautifully situated at thehead of the Dart Estuary, with itsnarrow streets, Norman castle andwealth of listed buildings. Thisafternoon we visit the neighbouringresorts of Torquay & Babbacombe,dropping off first in Victorian Torquay,with its magnificent bay, elegant villas,iconic palm tress, busy harbour andextensive shopping areas. We take theremainder of the party to smallerBabbacombe, “Torbay’s Jewel in theCrown”, boasting stunning coastalviews across Lyme Bay, sandy beaches,a promenade, a model village and afunicular cliff railway.Day 4: Today we head to Devon’spicturesque South Hams Region, wherewe visit picture-postcard Salcombe, avibrant coastal resort with an attractiveharbour and a smuggling past. Onthen to maritime Plymouth, “Britain’sOcean City”, with its great naval history- dating back to the days of Sir FrancesDrake, the green-lawned expanse of itsfamous Hoe and one of the mostperfect natural harbours in the world.

Alternatively, visit nearby NT Saltram, amagnificent Georgian mansion with atranquil garden, lying at the heart ofhistoric parkland. Setting for the filmingof Sense & Sensibility, the house boastsRobert Adam interiors and anexceptional collection of paintings(admission extra, free for NT)Day 5: We depart from our hotel andmake our way home, stopping en-route in the traditional seaside resortof Weymouth, set on a breathtakingGeorgian bay, with a level promenade,colourful harbour, sandy beaches anda compact town centre.HOTELRedcliffe HHH

Our hotel is the elegant 3* Redcliffe,superbly situated in the resort ofPaignton on the “English Riviera”. Set in three acres of grounds, withpanoramic views across Tor Bay, thehotel, formally a grand privateresidence, has retained many of itsunique features, including a finecarved staircase, elegant loungesand a beautiful ballroom. Dining inthe hotel’s stylish restaurant, with itsdelicious meals and stunning coastalviews, has been likened to diningaboard a luxury liner. All en-suitebedrooms are well equipped, there isa lift, three ground floor rooms and aleisure complex with indoorswimming pool.


INCLUSIONS• 4 nights half-board in en-suitebedrooms • lift • porterage • ground floor rooms • 4 excursions • visits onoutward & return journeys • leisure centre

A Scottish Panorama…Isle of Arran, Argyll, Stirling & the Trossachs

Monday 20th June 2016


SUPPLEMENTSSupplement for singleoccupancy of a double/twinroom: £NIL (first 4 only, £60thereafter)

A breathtaking Scottish break based at an award-winning four star hotel in Irvine. Our fabulous excursions take us to the fascinating Isle of Arran“Scotland in Miniature”, where we enjoy a guided coach tour of the island.We travel alongside stunning Loch Lomond and through the beautifulArgyll Forest Park to the historic, white painted town of Inveraray, and, in addtion, we visit the ancient city of Stirling and explore the gloriousforested hills, mountains & lochs of the Trossachs, where the Scottish hero, Rob Roy Macgregor roamed. A tour not to be missed.

YOUR ITINERARY Day 1: On leaving our local boardingpoints we make our way northward,stopping en-route for refreshmentsand lunch. On arrival in Scotland, weare greeted with tea and biscuits.Day 2: Our route today takes us alongthe western shore of stunning LochLomond, via the villages of Tarbet &Arrochar – at the tip of Loch Long,through Glen Croe and the “Rest andbe thankful” pass, to the distinctivewhite painted town of Inveraray, onthe shore of Loch Fyne, with itsmajestic castle, maritime museumand famous old jail. We returnalongside Loch Eck and through thebeautiful Argyle Forest Park to theresort of Dunoon, from where we takethe short sea crossing to Gourock andback to our hotel.

Day 3: Today, we will be joined by alocal guide for an enjoyable coach tour of the beautiful island of Arran,affectionately known as “Scotland inMiniature”, with its mountainousscenery, stunning seascapes,picturesque towns, historic castles,beautiful gardens, mystical standingstones & unspoilt beaches. Brodick,the island capital, & home to its mainferry port, has a great selection ofspeciality shops and local foodproducers offering a range of temptingproducts and delicious treats. AtLochranza we can have a taste ofArran at the local distillery & visitorcentre. After a wonderful day, wereturn to our hotel. Day 4: After breakfast, we travel to theancient town of Stirling, considered thebest small city in Scotland, with its Old

Town and historic castle, overlookingthe site of 'Braveheart' Sir WilliamWallace's greatest victory. Continuingon, we head for the forested hills,mountains & lochs of the Trossachs,where the Scottish hero, Rob RoyMacgregor roamed. Our journey takingus via the town of Callander, of DrFinlay’s Casebook fame, past LochVenachar, via Brig o’Turk, though theQueen Elizabeth Forest Park, and theattractive village of Aberfoyle.Day 5: We depart soon afterbreakfast for our journey home,making suitable stops en-route forrefreshments & lunch.HOTELIrvine HotelHHHH

Be assured of a warm welcome from the award-winning 4* IrvineHotel, situated on the outskirts of thetown of Irvine, on the Ayrshire coast,one of Scotland’s most beautifulareas. The hotel offers a superbrange of facilities, comfortable,modern en-suite bedrooms, acontemporary Brasserie restaurantand a spacious lounge. There is nolift; however, there are many groundfloor rooms, including one equippedfor the disabled.


INCLUSIONS• 4 nights half-board in en-suitebedrooms • porterage • groundfloor rooms • disabled room • welcome reception • 3 excursions • ferry crossings • Arran Guide

Picturebook Yorkshire Monday 11th July 2016


SUPPLEMENTSSingle supplement: £NIL (6 only)Double or twin room for singleoccupancy: £44

A feature-packed break to glorious Yorkshire, a truly diverse region, withdramatic coastal scenery, rugged moors, gentle rolling hills, magnificentstately homes, and an abundance of pretty villages & historic towns. Ourtour takes us to stunning Bilsdale in the North York Moors, Captain CooksWhitby, historic Helmsley, the magnificent Sledmere House and Gardensand the fascinating Scarborough Fair Collection. We discover the delights of the John Bull factory, have time at leisure in Scarborough and, in addition,visit beautiful NT Clumber Park & the historic city of York en-route.

YOUR ITINERARY Day 1: On leaving our local boardingpoints, we make our way northward,stopping en-route at NT Clumber Park,an area of picturesque parkland andgardens, with a magnificent lake.Day 2: After breakfast today, we headwestward, via pretty Thornton-le-Dale,to the charming town of Helmsley, withits mellow stone buildings, medievalcastle and attractive market square.Our journey continues, past the ruinedRievaulx Abbey and across the gloriousNorth York Moors, via beautifulBilsdale “Little Switzerland”, to thevillage of Great Ayton, childhood homeof celebrated seafarer, Captain Cook.We spend the remainder of the day inthe delightful fishing town of Whitby,from where Cook first set sail, famousfor Jet, the gleaming black gemstonesso beloved by the Victorians, its ruinedAbbey (the inspiration for BramStokers Gothic novel, Count Dracula)and St Mary’s Church, perched highabove the harbour.Day 3: Today we have the opportunityto spend some time at leisure in our

resort of Scarborough, with its twomajestic bays, ruined cliff-top castleand busy harbour. Bounded by thedramatic North York Moors and thepastures of the North Wolds,Scarborough boasts acres of gardens,tree-lined walks, a pleasantpromenade, sandy beaches and manyother attractions. This afternoon, wevisit the Scarborough Fair Collection, amagnificent working collection ofVintage Cars, Steam Engines, VintageFairground Rides and MechanicalOrgans topped off with a 'Mighty'Wurlitzer Organ (admission extra).Day 4: This morning we head acrossthe Wolds to visit John Bull, qualityconfectioners since 1911, whoproduce irresistible Belgian chocolates& mouth-watering Yorkshire biscuits, inaddition to their famous rock &seaside novelties. We discover thehistory of the brand and enjoy aninteresting factory tour, before makingour way to Sledmere House &Gardens. The charm of Sledmere hascaptivated visitors for over 200 years;however, in 1911 the house was

almost completely destroyed by fire.Fortunately, the majority of theexquisite furnishings were rescued and the building, set in a beautifulCapability Brown inspired landscape,has been restored to its former glory.The delightful grounds contain formalgardens (including a beautiful WalledRose Garden), a Wagoner’s Museum,stables, an art gallery, farm shop &restaurant. Day 5: We leave Scarborough andmake our way home, stopping en-route in the fascinating, walled city of York, renowned for its exquisitearchitecture, tangle of quaint cobbledstreets, including the famousShambles, and the iconic York Minster.HOTELEsplanade HHH

Our hotel, the 3* Esplanade, standsproudly on Scarborough’s South Cliff, with breathtaking panoramicviews of the sweeping South Bayfrom the magnificent bay window of its Landau Restaurant. Allcomfortable en-suite bedrooms arewell equipped and many boast seaviews. All floors are accessed via a liftand there is entertainment providedon some evenings.


INCLUSIONS• 4 nights half-board in en-suitebedrooms • porterage • lift • 3 included excursions • visitson outward & return journeys • evening entertainment • entrance to Sledmere • John Bull factory tour

Peaks, Pots, Pints & Petals Thursday 21st July 2016


SUPPLEMENTSSupplement for double roomfor single occupancy: £48 (first3 only, £60 thereafter)

This superb tour boasts three carefully planned excursions, withsomething for everyone, radiating from our excellent hotel. We haveincluded a variety of visits, including the fascinating National BreweryCentre, the newly re-developed World of Wedgwood, the historic markettowns of Ashbourne & Bakewell, the award-winning Trentham Estate andthe magnificent Chatsworth House & Gardens. In addition, we visitbeautiful Ely, Harper’s Fine Foods & the tranquil National MemorialArboretum en-route.

YOUR ITINERARY Day 1: We depart from our localboarding points, and make our way tothe beautiful, historic city of Ely, with itspopular open-air Thursday market andone of the most magnificent cathedralsin England. Continuing on, past the vastexpanse of Rutland Water, we arrive atour hotel in good time for dinner.Day 2: After breakfast, we enter theglorious Peak District National Park viathe spa town of Matlock Bath, “LittleSwitzerland”, nestled in the steepgorge of the River Derwent. Our tourcontinues to the attractive markettown of Bakewell, beautifully situatedon the River Wye, and world renownedfor its Bakewell Pudding. We spend theremainder of the day at magnificentChatsworth House and Gardens, home of the Duke and Duchess ofDevonshire and a popular location forTV & film. Ample opportunity toexplore the “Palace of the Peaks” andits grounds, generally regarded as thefinest palatial home in England, beforereturning to our hotel.

Day 3: Today we depart for aninteresting visit to the National BreweryCentre, a unique visitor experience,where we take a guided tour of themuseum, learn about the legendaryBass family and see how shire horses,steam engines and vintage vehiclesplayed a part in the brewing industry of years ago. Continuing on, we reachAshbourne, one of Derbyshire’s finestold market towns, famous for itshistoric annual Shrovetide footballmatch. Ashbourne’s cobbled marketplace, hidden alleys and yards are adelight to explore, and the wide andelegant Church Street is considered tobe the finest street of Georgianbuildings in Derbyshire. Day 4: Following another tastybreakfast, we head for the newly re-developed World of Wedgwood, withits flagship store, jam packed with giftideas and items for the home(shopping & refreshment stop only).We then make our way to the nearbyTrentham Estate, a unique and award-wining attraction incorporating a

shopping village & garden centrealongside fabulous gardens, describedby Alan Titchmarsh as “one of the UK’smust-see gardens”. Italian Gardens, aCapability Brown designed lake, showgardens, the fairy trail and much moremake Trentham well worth a visit.Day 5: On leaving our hotel, we visitthe National Memorial Arboretum, a place of tranquillity and reflection,acknowledging the personal sacrificesmade by our country’s armed forces.We then make our way to family run, Harper’s, purveyors of fine foodand wine, before completing ourjourney home. HOTELMickleover Court HHHH

A warm Derbyshire welcome awaits at the 4* Mickleover Court, a modernhotel, with a superb range of facilities,located on the outskirts of Derby. Allcontemporary en-suite bedrooms arewell equipped and the atmosphericBrasserie Restaurant servesinspirational menus made from thefinest ingredients and seasonalproduce. The comprehensive leisurecentre boasts an indoor swimmingpool and there is a lift to all floors.


INCLUSIONS• 4 nights half-board in en-suitebedrooms • porterage • lift • 3 excursions • visits onoutward & return journeys • entrances to NationalBrewery Centre, Chatsworthand the Trentham Estate

Lakeland Treasures, Dales Delights & the Lancashire Rose

Sunday 31st July 2016


SUPPLEMENTSSupplement for singleoccupancy of a double/twinroom: £48 (7 only, £68thereafter)

This exciting tour, based at the centrally located 4* Leyland Hotel, allows us the opportunity to explore no less than three neighbouring counties;Lancashire, Cumbria & Yorkshire. Our carefully planned excursions take us to the Victorian coastal resorts of Southport & Lytham St Annes, theYorkshire market towns of Grassington & Skipton and the historic villageof Cartmel (of Sticky Toffee pudding fame). We also visit Cumbria’smagnificent Holker Hall & Gardens, the Pendle Heritage Centre and take a short tour into “Calender Girls Country”. In addition, we spend time atthe Trentham Shopping Village & the city of Coventry en-route.

YOUR ITINERARY Day 1: On leaving our local boardingpoints, we make our way north,stopping en-route at the popularTrentham Estate, where we have the opportunity to explore theshopping village, with its selection of eateries, and the garden centre,with its extensive range of goods forhome & garden.Day 2: After breakfast today, we headinto Yorkshire, stopping en-route at theinteresting Pendle Heritage Centre,with its museum, walled garden andgallery. Continuing on, we reach thecastle town of Skipton “Gateway to theYorkshire Dales”, with its bustling streetmarket and award-winning High Street.We finish the day with a short tour intoCalender Girls Country, our routetaking us via Rylstone (the home of theoriginal WI) and Burstall (location forthe village fete in the film); we make abrief stop in the attractive Dalesmarket town of Grassington, with itscharming cobbled square.

Day 3: This morning, we visit theelegant, coastal town of Southport,famed for its Victorian town centre, inparticular, Lord Street, characterisedby its beautiful period wrought ironcanopies, which cover the shop fronts,and its stunning landscaped gardens.We spend the afternoon in Lytham St Annes, two neighbouring towns thathave grown together to form onedelightful seaside resort, nestled alonga picturesque stretch of coastline, withwell tended lawns, pretty parks, sandybeaches, a Victorian pier, historicwindmill, a ‘royal’ golf course & stylishindependent shops.Day 4: Our excursion today takes usinto Cumbria, where we visit thehistoric village of Cartmel, winner ofnumerous awards for its floral displaysand home of the Sticky Toffee Pudding.We continue on to Holker Hall, one ofthe best loved stately homes in Britain,and home of Lord & Lady Cavendish.Holker Hall is magnificently framed by the Lakeland Hills with magical

gardens, boasting all-year interest, that merge into the surroundingparkland. We return via Newby Bridgeand alongside the eastern shore ofstunning Lake Windermere.Day 5: On leaving our hotel we make our way homeward, stoppingen-route at the cathedral city ofCoventry, where we have theopportunity to visit the TransportMuseum (free entry) or to explore the town centre.HOTELBest Western Premier Leyland HHHH

Our hotel is the award-winning 4*Best Western Premier Leyland, amodern, luxurious hotel, located justoutside the Lancashire town ofLeyland, and ideally situated for ourtour. All bedrooms are well equippedand offer en-suite facilities; there is no lift, however, many ground floorrooms are available, including twowith walk-in shower. Meals are takenin the Four Seasons Restaurant and arelaxing drink may be taken in the J28Lounge Bar. The leisure club boastsan indoor swimming pool.


INCLUSIONS• 4 nights half-board in en-suitebedrooms • porterage • groundfloor bedrooms • disabledbedrooms • three excursions • visits on outward & returnjourneys • admissions to HolkerHall & Pendle Heritage Centre

The Splendours of Snowdonia& North Wales

Sunday 4th September 2016


SUPPLEMENTSSupplement for double/twinroom for single occupancy: £35(8 only)

This spectacular tour is based in Beddgelert, one of Snowdonia’s loveliestmountain villages, surrounded by the finest scenery in North Wales. Ourexciting excursions take us to the fantasy village of Portmeirion, VictorianLlandudno and beautiful Bodnant Garden. We also explore the SnowdoniaNational Park and the Isle of Anglesey. In addition, we visit the cathedral cityof Lichfield & historic Shrewsbury en-route and there will be the opportunityto ride on the nostalgic Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways.

YOUR ITINERARY Day 1: We depart from our localboarding points and commence ourjourney to Beddgelert, stopping en-route in the historic city of Lichfield.Day 2: Today, we have the opportunityto explore beautiful Beddgelert, withits pretty stone built houses and youngtumbling rivers, that meet beneath anancient arched bridge. Alternatively,take a ride on the Welsh HighlandRailway, which has a station in thevillage, and runs past the foot ofSnowdon and through the stunningAberglaslyn Pass, on its 25 milejourney between Caernarfon &Porthmadog. Or join our excursion tothe Italianate fantasy village ofPortmeirion and the Ffestiniog Railway.Portmerion is a unique architecturalattraction, set amongst beautifulmature gardens, with glorious viewsacross the Dwyryd estuary, it is hometo Portmeirion Pottery and the settingfor the cult 60’s TV series “ThePrisoner”. The Ffestiniog Railway

travels 13½ miles from Porthmadogharbour to the slate-quarrying town ofBlaenau Ffestiniog, climbing over 700ftand travelling through magnificentforests, past lakes & waterfalls andround horseshoe bends, clinging tothe side of the mountain and eventunnelling through it (train fares &admissions extra).Day 3: After breakfast, we take ascenic route, via Capel Curig and theVale of Conwy, to the Victorian resortof Llandudno, a beautiful seaside town,with a promenade, pier, superbbeaches and panoramic views fromthe Great Orme, at the summit of itsstriking headland. On leavingLlandudno, we visit world renownedNT Bodnant, an 80-acre garden, setabove the River Conwy. Considered tobe one of the great gardens of theworld, the magnificent flowering plantsand shrubs, impressive views andabundant running water make a visitwell worthwhile. Day 4: This morning, we head into the

heart of the Snowdonia National Park,via the Pass of Llanberis, to theattractive village of the same name,beautifully situated at the foot ofMount Snowdon, with its gloriousscenery and many attractions.Continuing on, to the beautiful Isle ofAnglesey, we visit the Victorian coastaltown of Beaumaris, with its magnificentviews across the Straits to themainland, splendid harbour, and finemoated castle. We return, via Bethesdaand the popular village of Betws-y-Coed, to Beddgelert.Day 5: We leave our hotel soon afterbreakfast and make our way home,stopping en-route in Shrewsbury, ahistoric town nestling in a great loop of the River Severn. HOTELRoyal Goat Hotel HHH

The welcoming 3* Royal Goat Hotel isalways a popular choice with ourclients and is perfect for a relaxingholiday. An impressive building,steeped in history, it has attractive,comfortable public areas and anexcellent reputation for good foodand wine. The tastefully furnished en-suite bedrooms are well equippedand accessed via a lift. Entertainmentwill be provided on some evenings.


INCLUSIONS• 4 nights half-board in en-suitebedrooms • lift • porterage • 3 included coach excursionswith visits on outward & returnjourneys • eveningentertainment • entrance toBodnant Gardens

Genteel, Victorian Southsea & theCharms of the South Coast

Mon 19th September 2016


SUPPLEMENTSSingle supplement: £NIL (10 rooms only)

A relaxing tour to Victorian Southsea, an elegant south coast resort in thecounty of Hampshire. Our three carefully planned excursions includeMottisfont Abbey & Gardens, pretty Lymington and two National Parks -the majestic New Forest & the beautiful South Downs. We also exploreSouthampton’s SeaCity Museum, Georgian Chichester, the waterside city ofPortsmouth and beautiful West Dean Gardens. In addition, we visit theelegant resort of Eastbourne, historic Guildford & Royal Windsor en-route.

YOUR ITINERARY Day 1: On leaving our local boardingpoints, we head for Southsea, stoppingat the popular Polhill Garden Centreand the seaside town of Eastbourne,with its level promenade, pier,beautiful gardens and extensiveshopping centre, en-route.Day 2: Following breakfast today, wevisit the fascinating SeaCity Museum,which tells the story of the people ofSouthampton and their connectionswith the infamous Titanic & the sea.The main display is dedicated to thesinking of the massive White Star linerin 1912, and its devastating impact onthe city; many of the crew being localresidents. Continuing on, we travelthrough the glorious ancientwoodlands of the New Forest to thebeautiful, Georgian market town ofLymington, situated on its southernedge. A world renowned sailing resort,with two large marinas, the town alsoboasts a number of interestingindependent shops, cafes and the OldTown Quay.

Day 3: After breakfast, we have theopportunity to relax in our hotel or toexplore our resort of Southsea, withits two shopping areas, prettygardens, beach, pier, a castle datingback to King Henry VIII, and variousmuseums and attractions.Alternatively, just a mile away, is thefascinating and unique, maritime cityof Portsmouth, with its Old Town, theGunwharf Quays shopping centre, theSpinnaker Tower (with its panoramiccoastal views) and the famous HistoricDockyard. This afternoon, eitherremain in Portsmouth/Southsea orjoin our excursion to NT MottisfontAbbey & Gardens. Mottisfont is aromantic house and gallery, craftedfrom a medieval priory, set in beautifulriverside gardens. Throughout theyear there are beautiful works of arton display and the gardens arestunning in all seasons (admissionextra, NT free).Day 4: Today, we visit one of the bestpreserved Georgian cities in thecountry, historic Chichester, which liesbetween two areas of Outstanding

Natural Beauty – the South Downs andChichester Harbour. Ample time toexplore this fascinating town, with itscompact city centre, elaborate marketcross and magnificent Normancathedral, before we make our way tonearby West Dean Gardens. WestDean features a restored KitchenGarden, a 300-foot long EdwardianPergola, a Spring Garden, 16 superblyrestored Victorian Glasshouses andbeautiful parkland walks over theSouth Downs. Day 5: On leaving our hotel, we travelhome across the rolling South Downs,with visits to the castle town ofGuildford, with its splendid 20thcentury cathedral, and historic RoyalWindsor, dominated by its magnificentcastle, en-route.HOTELBest Western Royal Beach HHH

Our hotel is the award-winning 3*Best Western Royal Beach, a carefullyrefurbished Victorian building, locatedon the seafront in the south coastresort of Southsea, with superb viewsacross the Solent. All well appointeden-suite bedrooms are equipped withthe usual facilities, and all floors areaccessible by lift. The hotel is ideallysituated opposite South Parade Pier,within a short distance of the resort’smany attractions.


INCLUSIONS• 4 nights half-board in en-suitebedrooms • lift & porterage • 3 excursions with visits onoutward & return journeys • entrance to West DeanGardens & Sea City Museum

Wonders of the West Country Sun 25th September 2016


SUPPLEMENTSSupplement for singleoccupancy of a double room:£56 (first 5 only, 72 thereafter)

This wonderful tour is based in mid-Devon and boasts three includedexcursions, taking in many of the fine features and attractions of the area. The market town of Bideford, the coastal resorts of Lyme Regis and Lynmouth, Exmoor National Park, the West Somerset Railway, theDartington Crystal Factory and beautiful Rosemoor Gardens all feature in our program, with the added bonus of visits to historic Wells, Salisburyand Marlborough en-route and an optional horse-drawn canal trip.

YOUR ITINERARY Day 1: We depart from our localboarding points and head for theSouthwest, stopping en-route in thecity of Salisbury, with its splendid earlyEnglish cathedral, crowned by thetallest spire in Britain. We arrive at ourhotel in good time for dinner.Day 2: Following breakfast, we travelinto Somerset to board the WestSomerset Railway, Britain’s longeststandard gauge heritage line, for ascenic 20 mile journey from BishopsLydyeard to the resort of Minehead. As the train passes through theQuantock Hills and along the BristolChannel coastline, a volunteer guide(subject to availability) will point outplaces of interest and relate therailway’s history. Continuing acrossExmoor and via Porlock, we arrive inthe picturesque harbour village ofLynmouth, "Little Switzerland", which isconnected to its twin town, Lynton, bya remarkable 19th century, water

operated cliff railway.Day 3: After breakfast, we visit Dorset’ssmall, unspoilt fishing port of LymeRegis, famous for its Cob harbour andthe fossils found along its shore.Returning to Tiverton we have theoption to explore the town, relax in thecomfort of our hotel or take ahorsedrawn canal trip on the GreatWestern Canal. The canal trip lasts forapprox. 2½ hours, there is aninteresting commentary during thejourney and refreshments are available(boat fare extra).Day 4: Today we travel to the NorthDevon market town of Bideford, withits ancient 24-arched bridge spanningthe River Torridge. Ample opportunityto explore the narrow streets, withtheir brightly coloured shops, and tovisit the historic Butchers Row shops,before making our way to GreatTorrington, were we can either visit thefamous Dartington Crystal Factory orRHS Rosemoor. RHS Rosemoor is an

enchanting 65-acre garden, with bothformal and informal planting, as well aswoodland walks, water features andopen spaces. At Dartington we can seeand hear the fascinating story of over40 years of crystal glass productionand watch the master craftsmen atwork. We will drop off at both places.(Admissions extra, Rosemoor free forRHS members)Day 5: We depart from our hotel soonafter breakfast and make our wayhomeward, stopping en-route inhistoric Wells, the smallest city inEngland, with its beautiful cathedral &moated Bishops Palace, and theattractive market town of Marlborough,with its broad High Street of charming,colonnaded houses & fine old pubs.HOTELBest Western Tiverton HHH

Our hotel is the welcoming, award-winning, 3* standard Best WesternTiverton Hotel, which sits in two and ahalf acres of mature gardens in theheart of Devon. The spacious, wellappointed en-suite accommodation isarranged over two floors, with a largenumber of ground floor bedroomsavailable; some are adapted for thedisabled. There is no lift. The light andmodern Galley Restaurant serves anexcellent selection of food with locallysourced menus.


INCLUSIONS• 4 nights half-board in en-suitebedrooms • porterage • groundfloor rooms • disabled rooms • 3 excursions • train fare • visits on outward & returnjourneys

Treasures of the Yorkshire & Lincolnshire Wolds

Thursday 6th October 2016


SUPPLEMENTSDouble room for singleoccupancy: £NIL (first 6 only,£60 thereafter)

A new tour, based in the East Riding of Yorkshire, which explores the rolling hills and attractions of the Lincolnshire Wolds to the south and theYorkshire Wolds to the north. Our excursions take us to the attractivemarket towns of Louth & Beverley, we also visit Alford’s splendid windmill,stunning Castle Howard and the award-winning Burnby Hall Garden. Inaddition, we spend time in historic Stamford and the magnificent city ofLincoln en-route.

YOUR ITINERARY Day 1: On leaving our local boardingpoints, we make our way north,stopping en-route in the historic city of Lincoln, with its magnificentcathedral, ancient castle and medievalBishops Palace. Day 2: After breakfast, we head intothe Yorkshire Wolds to visit historicBeverley, with its attractive town centre of cobbled streets andcharming courtyards, boasting highstreet names, intermingled withsmaller independent shops. The townis famous for its unspoilt medievalskyline and splendid 13th centuryMinster, one of Europe’s finest Gothicchurches. This afternoon, we take ascenic route to the award-winningBurnby Hall Gardens & Museum.Described as "a jewel in Yorkshire’scrown”, the gardens boast beautifullakes, a Rockery, Stumpery, a VictorianGarden, a Secret Garden, formal bedsand natural shrubbery. The gardenswere the inspiration of world travellerMajor Percy Marlborough Stewart and

the Stewart Museum is dedicated tohis extraordinary life.Day 3: Following breakfast, we head for the rolling hills of the LincolnshireWolds, an Area of Outstanding NaturalBeauty and birthplace of poet, AlfredLord Tennyson. Our morningrefreshment break is Alford’smagnificent five-sailed windmill,considered the finest in England, whichstands six stories high and still grindsflour today. Tours of the mill areavailable (cost extra –steps involved).Continuing on, we make our way to themarket town of Louth, capital of theWolds, with its splendid Georgian &Victorian architecture, lively market andabundance of independent shops. Wereturn via Market Rasen, famous for itsracecourse, to Brigg, where we stop,time permitting, at Brigg Garden Centre.Day 4: Today we travel into the heartof the Yorkshire Wolds to visit one ofBritain’s finest historic estates, CastleHoward, home to the Howard familyfor over 300 years. A magnificent 18thcentury residence, set within the

breathtaking landscape of theHowardian Hills, it’s a haven of peaceand tranquillity throughout the year.With world-renowned collections,stunning architecture, idyllic gardens,and woodland & lakeside walks, it’seasy to see why the house andbeautiful grounds have been a popularchoice for period drama producers for many years; most famously,Brideshead Revisited.Day 5: We leave our hotel and headfor home, stopping en-route in theLincolnshire town of Stamford “thefinest stone town in England”, with itsunique blend of niche shopping andstunning architecture.HOTELHallmark Hotel HHHH

Our hotel is East Yorkshire’s 4*Hallmark, beautifully situated in 17acres of landscaped grounds, withstunning views of the famousHumber Bridge, once the longestsingle-span suspension bridge onearth. All stylish en-suite bedroomsare tastefully furnished & wellequipped and there is acontemporary wine bar & restaurant,with panoramic views of the HumberEstuary. The leisure centre boasts agym, sauna and spa. No lift, butseveral ground floor bedrooms.


INCLUSIONS• 4 nights half-board in en-suitebedrooms • porterage • groundfloor rooms • welcomereception • 3 excursions • visitson outward & return journeys • entrances to Castle Howardand Burnby Hall

© Jon Large

Shades of Gold…Eastbourne & the South Downs

Friday 21st October 2016


SUPPLEMENTSSingle supplement: £NIL (9 rooms only)Double room for sole-occupancy supplement: £36Guaranteed sea viewsupplement: £20 per person

On this relaxing 4-day break we enjoy the stunning autumn colours of Kent& Sussex, with gentle excursions along country roads, lined with the richbrown and golden tints of the season. Based in the genteel, Victorian southcoast town of Eastbourne, we have included an excursion across the rollingSouth Downs, taking in pretty Steyning and Alfriston, and a nostalgic returnjourney on the historic Bluebell Railway. In addition, we visit the attractivetown of Rye, Polhill Garden Centre & Middle Farm en-route, and spend timeat leisure in our resort.

YOUR ITINERARY Day 1: On leaving our local boardingpoints, we take a scenic route, viaEdenbridge and the Ashdown Forest -an ancient area of open heathland, inthe heart of the High Weald, worldrenowned as the home of Winnie thePooh - to Middle Farm, situated at thefoot of Firle Beacon on the SouthDowns. Home of the NationalCollection of Cider & Perry, MiddleFarm also boasts two shops, selling arange of fine foods, quality gifts anditems for the home, and a restaurant,offering delicious homemade menus.Time for shopping and lunch, beforewe continue on to our resort ofEastbourne.Day 2: After breakfast, we travel acrossthe rolling hills of the South Downs, theUK’s newest National Park, to Steyning,one of the prettiest Sussex towns, withits fine High Street, lined with historicbuildings and an array of independent

retailers, selling a wide variety ofgoods. We return to Eastbourne viathe attractive, half-timbered, marketvillage of Alfriston, situated in theCuckmere Valley, famous for its Grade Ilisted, 14th Century, St Andrew’schurch (known as “the Cathedral of theDowns”) and its thatched clergy house Day 3: Today, we take another scenictour, however, this time we admire thegolden colours of autumn from one ofthe preserved, heritage trains on thepopular Bluebell Railway. After anostalgic return journey, though theheart of Sussex, we enjoy theremainder of the day at leisure in ourresort of Eastbourne, with its levelpromenade, traditional pier, attractiveseafront and fine shopping areas. Day 4: On leaving our hotel, we visitthe attractive, hill-top town of Rye, aformer trading port and smugglershaunt, with its timbered houses,specialty shops, tearooms and

restaurants. Our route continuesthrough Sandhurst, Hawkhurst,Flimwell, Ticehurst, Wadhurst andFrant to the popular Polhill GardenCentre and shopping village, where wetake break, before completing ourjourney home.HOTELBest Western Lansdowne HHH

The award-winning 3* Best WesternLansdowne, is a traditional, seafronthotel, enjoying an enviable position, atthe quieter end of the promenade, inthe elegant, Victorian resort ofEastbourne. All well equipped,attractively furnished bedrooms haveen-suite facilities; many have seaviews. Public rooms include theattractive Regency Bar, the elegantDevonshire Restaurant, and well-furnished sea-facing lounges. Thereare two lifts, and two rooms equippedfor the disabled.


INCLUSIONS• 3 nights half-board in en-suitebedrooms • lift • porterage • 2 included excursions withvisits on outward & returnjourneys • entertainment onone evening • fare for BluebellRailway

© Flickr - hehaden

Magnificent Chatsworth’sChristmas Market

The glorious DerbyshirePeak District is beautiful atany time of the year, but asChristmas approaches, theatmosphere becomes evenmore special. In particular,the stately home ofChatsworth is transformed;

spectacularly adorned with traditional decorations,providing a stunning reminder of Christmas’ past. Inaddition, our tour coincides with Chatsworth’s annualChristmas Market, which boasts colourful stalls stockedwith seasonal gifts and tasty snacks.

YOUR ITINERARY Day 1: We depart from our local boarding points, and makeour way to Derbyshire, with a stop en-route at Dobbies ofAtherstone with its fine restaurant and massive range ofgarden & gift ideas.Day 2: Today, we travel via the pretty riverside town ofMatlock Bath to the magnificent Chatsworth Estate, situatedin the beautiful Peak District National Park. On arrival at the17th century home of the Dukes of Devonshire, we find thelower floors of the wonderful house have been transformedinto a stunning Christmas wonderland. In addition, withinthe grounds, is a lively, colourful Christmas Market, withmusical entertainment and over 100 stalls selling all mannerof festive decorations, gifts and delicious food. After a trulymagical day, we return home.HOTEL Mickleover Court HHHH

A warm Derbyshire welcome awaits at the 4* MickleoverCourt, a modern hotel, boasting a superb range of facilities,located on the outskirts of Derby. All contemporary en-suitebedrooms are well equipped and the atmospheric BrasserieRestaurant serves inspirational menus made from the finestingredients. The leisure centre has an indoor swimmingpool and there is a lift to all floors.

INCLUSIONS• 1 night half-board in en-suite bedrooms • porterage • lift • entrance to Chatsworth

INCLUSIONS• 1 night half-board in en-suite bedrooms • porterage • ground floor bedrooms • ticket for Thursford Spectacular


Sun 13th Nov 2016

2 DaysPRICE AVAILABLEMARCH. Please call to add your nameto our advance booking list,no commitment, but you willbe the first to be contactedwhen the price becomesavailable.

© Chatsworth House Trust

The Thursford Christmas Spectacular

A wonderful two-day breakto the marvellous ThursfordChristmas Spectacular…afestive extravaganza not tobe missed. The show, withits cast of over 100professional singers,dancers, musicians and acomedian, never fails todelight its audience. The

magical auditorium is beautifully adorned, withsparkling decorations at every turn, and the shops arefull with Christmas gifts. Add to this, the awe inspiringPhil Kelsall, playing the Mighty Wurlitzer, and you have arecipe for success that keeps visitors returning year afteryear.

YOUR ITINERARY Day 1: Morning refreshment stop, 3-course late lunch athotel, depart for evening performance of Thursford show,return to hotel for overnight.Day 2: After a hearty breakfast, we commence our journeyhome. Stopping for lunch & shopping in eitherNorwich/Wroxham or Bury St Edmunds (dependant on date).HOTEL Best Western Knights Hill HHHHOur hotel is the 4* Best Western PLUS Knights Hill, arestored farm complex, set in 11 acres of parkland andgarden, on the outskirts of Kings Lynn. All smartlydecorated en-suite bedrooms are equipped with the usualfacilities and are situated on either the ground or first floor.Meals are taken in either the elegant Garden Restaurant orKnights Barn. The leisure centre boasts an indoorswimming pool. No lift, but many ground floor bedrooms.Note: Day 1 (above) assumes an evening performance of the show, ifwe are allocated tickets for the matinee performance the itinerary willbe revised accordingly. We have a reserve date of Sunday 11thDecember should Thursford not be able to accommodate us on one ofour preferred dates as listed above.

SEE P6 FOR THURSFORD DAY EXCURSIONS

• Sun 20th Nov 2016• Sun 4th Dec 2016

2 DaysPRICE AVAILABLEMARCH. Please call to add your nameto our advance booking list,no commitment, but you willbe the first to be contactedwhen the price becomesavailable.

Mistletoe & Wine at the Rosemundy Thurs 24th November 2016


SUPPLEMENTSSingle Supplement: £NIL (7 rooms only)Supplement for a double/twinroom for single occupancy:£40 (subject to availability)

What better location for a pre-Christmas festive tour than the beautifullydecorated, welcoming Rosemundy House Hotel, in the picturesque coastalCornish village of St Agnes. With its thriving, friendly community, beautifulbeaches & breathtaking scenery, St Agnes is one our clients favouritedestinations. Look out for Stippy Stappy, the row of pretty sea captainscottages, which tumble down the hillside; and also the remains of the stonebuilt engine houses, a reminder of the village’s mining past. A perfect festive treat.

YOUR ITINERARY Day 1: We depart from our localboarding points and head for theSouthwest, stopping en-route forrefreshments & lunch. On arrival in StAgnes, porters take care of our luggagewhile we settle into our rooms. Thisevening, we enjoy a welcoming sherryreception prior to dinner in therestaurant.Day 2: Today we visit the charmingresort and fishing village of St Ives, withits splendid beaches, fine views andmild climate. The beauty of St Ives hasalways attracted artists, and in recenttimes it has become an importantcentre of the arts, with museums andgalleries adding to its appeal. We thentake a scenic route, round Mounts Bay,past the magical St Michaels Mountback to St Agnes, stopping en-route atHealey’s Cornish Cyder Farm, thelargest Cornish Cider maker inCornwall, and the only distillers making

Cider Brandy & Fruit spirits.Entertainment this evening.Day 3: After breakfast, we make ourway to Truro, with its pedestrianisedshopping area, historic buildings, parksand magnificent cathedral. Ample timeto explore, before we travel to thecoast, where we visit the pretty oldfishing port of Mevagissey, with itsquaint shops and colourful cottageslining the busy harbour.This evening we enjoy a traditionalChristmas dinner, with entertainmentand a visit from Santa.Day 4: After a leisurely breakfast, we head for the resort of Falmouth,known as “the Queen of the CornishRivera”, with its mild sub-tropicalclimate, a deep natural harbour, afine shopping centre, and variousattractions. After lunch, we return to St Agnes via the Trebah Garden VisitorCentre, where we have the opportunityto visit the café and gift shop, while

admiring the 25-acre, sub-tropical,ravine garden from the terrace (wewon’t be visiting the garden itself). This evening we enjoy a quiz andmince pies in the bar area.Day 5: After breakfast this morning, we commence our return journey,making suitable stops en-route forrefreshments and lunch. HOTELRosemundy House HHH

Our hotel is the welcoming, family run 3* Rosemundy House, an elegantQueen Anne residence dating back to the 1780’s, beautifully situatedamongst secluded gardens andwoodlands, where we are assured of a warm welcome and excellentcuisine. The Rosemundy, is ideallysituated to explore the county ofCornwall and is also a comfortablehome-from-home when at leisure. Allwell appointed en-suite bedrooms areon either the ground or first floor andfor relaxation, there are comfortablelounges. Meals are waitress served inthe attractive restaurant, known asthe Tom Noggi Room.Note: Please note that this program is basedon the latest information from the hotel andmay be subject to change.


INCLUSIONS• 4 nights half-board in en-suitebedrooms • porterage • groundfloor rooms • disabled rooms • Evening entertainment • 3 excursions • sherryreception • visit from SantaNOTE: no lift at hotel.

Christmas in Shropshire & the Severn Valley

Friday 23rd December 2016


SUPPLEMENTSSupplement for a twin/doubleroom for single occupancy:£45 (first 16, £60 thereafter)

A great hotel, convivial company and the usual Boon’s extras; we’re confidentour 2016 seasonal celebration will be a winner.

Join us for our popular Christmas tour, which this year takes us into thecounty of Shropshire, a little known corner of England which may be one of the last remaining rural idylls; unspoilt and uncrowded. However, it washere that the world took much of its inspiration; Charles Darwin developedhis inquisitive mind in his home town of Shrewsbury, the IndustrialRevolution started in Ironbridge (one of Shropshire’s two World HeritageSites) and even the modern Olympics drew their very creation, not fromAthens, but from the little market town of Much Wenlock.

YOUR ITINERARY Day 1: We depart from our localboarding points, and make our way toShropshire, stopping en-route forlunch. After lunch, we continue on toour hotel, where we are greeted by thehotel staff, who serve refreshments,while porters take care of our luggage.Time to settle into our rooms beforewe meet again for dinner, followed bya rousing game of bingo. Day 2: After our full English breakfast,we depart for an included excursionaround the area, returning to ourhotel mid/late afternoon. This eveningwe enjoy dinner accompanied byentertainment (such as a tablemagician). For guests returning fromMidnight Mass*, tea/coffee/hotchocolate will be served in theLounge Bar.Day 3: Merry Christmas!! Our daycommences with a full Englishbreakfast, after which, we are free torelax in the hotel, make use of theleisure facilities or attend morningchurch services*. We all meet again fora traditional Christmas Day lunch with

all the trimmings. After lunch, we gathertogether for the Queen’s Speech withtea/coffee & cake. This evening a hot & cold buffet supper is served,accompanied by background music. A Christmas Quiz rounds off the day.Day 4: After another full Englishbreakfast we depart for a morning tourof the area and then there will be theopportunity to see the matineeperformance of a local pantomime(see below). Afternoon tea will beserved and then we have time to relaxbefore our farewell dinner, followed bylive evening entertainment.Day 5: After breakfast this morning, wemake our way home, making suitablestops en-route for refreshments andlunch. *Transport will be provided for Midnight

Mass (subject to driver’s hours andsufficient interest) but not Christmasmorning services.

Optional Boxing Day Pantomime: Cinderella at the Theatre Severn,Shrewsbury. Cost of tickets is extra (stallsseats): Adults: £23, Seniors: £21. Pleasepay by 1st September 2016.

HOTELTelford Hotel HHHHOur tour is based at the 4* TelfordHotel, set in 170 acres within aUNESCO World Heritage Site, withstunning views across the Shropshirecountryside & panoramic views of thefamous Ironbridge Gorge. All stylish,well equipped, en-suite bedrooms arelarge, warm and welcoming and the1779 Restaurant offers a light,contemporary atmosphere, withpanoramic views towards the Gorge.Drinks may be taken in the Gorge Barand for relaxation, the fully equippedleisure centre boasts a 15m indoorswimming pool. Throughout our stay, the hotel loungewill be available for boardgames/cards and there will also begames such as guess the weight ofthe Christmas cake.Note: This programme of meals andentertainment is based on the latestinformation available from the hotel; wereserve the right to make changes, asnecessary, should the hotel amend theirarrangements.


INCLUSIONS• 4 nights half-board in en-suitebedrooms • porterage • lift • ground floor bedrooms • leisure centre • adaptedbedroom • rooms with walk-inshowers • Christmas lunch andChristmas package as specified• visits on outward & returnjourneys • two excursions • optional pantomime • presentfrom Santa, Christmas raffle &chocolates on the coach.


BOARDINGWe offer a flexible “close to home” pick upservice for all holidays and short breaks (seepage 27), which, for the majority of our tours,allows visits to places of interest en-route,making travelling days enjoyable, rather thandays to be endured. To ensure efficientboarding, some passengers may betransferred to the coach by car or taxi.

DOOR-TO-DOOR SERVICEFor an extra charge, we provide a door-to-door service for locations not on our scheduled boarding list (see page 28). Ifyour area is not listed please call for aquotation (Holidays and short breaks only).

BOARDING EN-ROUTEWould you like to holiday with friends orrelatives from other areas? If you can arrangefor your companions to meet the coach at thehotel, or en-route, at one of our comfort stopsor our lunch stop, they are very welcome tojoin you on our tours.

COACH ONLYVisiting friends or relatives near one of ourholiday destinations? If we have space on thecoach we would be pleased to offer you atransport only option. Please call for aquotation.

USING YOUR OWN TRANSPORTYou may wish to make your own way to thehotel (by car, train or taxi), and then join thetour on arrival. Alternatively, if you are able todrive a car, but cannot manage the coach atall, it is still possible to holiday at one of ourgreat hotels (subject to availability). Please callfor details.

GROUP DISCOUNTSWe offer group discounts for groups of 7 persons and above, so gather your friendsand relations together and save some money.(See group discount table below).

General Information & Group Bookings BROCHURESOur brochures are distributed by post to allrecent clients on our mailing list, if you do notreceive one, or require additional copies,please telephone or call at our office.Brochures are also stocked by VisitorInformation Centres in Witham, Maldon,Colchester & Freeport, and First Bus TravelShops in Chelmsford & Colchester.

CUSTOMER FEEDBACKOn the last day of your tour the coach driverwill distribute our customer satisfactionquestionnaires. We do read every single one,so please help us to maintain our service bycompleting the form. If you would like to addany further comments on your return home,we would love to hear from you, a letter oremail detailing what you liked, or disliked, isvery valuable to us.

COMPLAINTSIf you have a problem during one of our toursor day excursions, please speak to your coachdriver (or hotel reception, if applicable)immediately, since the majority of issues canbe easily resolved if we are made aware ofthem. Should the problem not be resolved toyour satisfaction, please ask your coach driverfor a complaint report form and complete itimmediately; keep a copy for yourself and yourdriver will ensure that copies are passed to allparties involved. If your complant remainsunresolved, please refer to our Fair TradingAgreement (pages 25 & 26) for furtherinstructions & information.CUSTOMER CARE & SERVICE POLICY We have a comprehensive Customer Care & Service Policy which is accessible via ourwebsite, www.boons-holidays.co.uk. If you arenot yet on-line, we are happy to forward acopy on request.MOBILITYPlease advise us in writing if you are bringing awalker or wheelchair.

COACH HIRE & GROUPSIf you run a group or society, we are able to help you in a number of ways, we can offeryou group discounts on our scheduled toursand excursions, we can just provide you with acoach, or we can completely organise yourtour or excursion, taking care of hotelbookings, tickets, ferries, coach hire anditinerary planning. Please refer to the tablebelow for group discounts on our scheduleddepartures. If you would prefer to arrangeyour own group holiday or day excursion,please call us to discuss your requirements.

WEBSITEPlease check our website for regular updatesand new destinations... www.boons-holidays.co.ukPAYMENTWe accept payments via cheque, cash, banktransfer, debit card and credit card. If you wishto pay via bank transfer, please call to confirmour account details. Due to the costs involvedin processing card payments, the followingcharges apply:Personal Debit Card: No chargePersonal Credit Card: 2.5% of transactionvalueAll Commercial Cards: 2.5% of transactionvalueIf you wish to pay by cash, please call the officebefore setting out.OUR LOCATIONWe are 8 miles from Chelmsford, 4 miles from Witham and 4.5 miles fromMaldon. Our office at “The Homestead” is located on Ulting Road in Nounsley, a hamlet of Hatfield Peverel, on the corner of Peverel Avenue.

Group Booking Reductions for Holidays, Short Breaks & Excursions

The basic cost of the trip excludes single supplements and any extras, such as meals, fares & admissions etc, unless theywere included in the advertised price. Children under 3 yrs of age, if travelling free of charge, cannot be included in the groupsize. To qualify for group reductions, bookings must be made through an organiser who will collect the fares and and forwardthem to Boon’s Calibre Travel as a single payment.

Groups who book on our scheduled holidays and day excursions may be eligible to board the coach at their meeting placeor housing complex, this is dependant on group size and location of proposed boarding point. Please call us to discuss your requirements.

Don’t forget that we also organise bespoke holidays and day excursions for Group Organisers.

PLEASE NOTE that Group Reductions will be repaid to Group Organisers when Travel Tickets are issued and will be based onthe final number of travellers.

GROUP SIZE HOLIDAYS & SHORT BREAKS DISCOUNT (on basic cost*) DAY EXCURSIONS DISCOUNT (on basic cost*)

7 – 11 One 10% reduction One 20% reduction12 – 16 One 25% reduction One 50% reduction17 – 21 One 50% reduction One free place22 – 31 One free place One free place plus one 50% reduction32 – 41 One free place plus one 50% reduction Two free places42 & above Two free places Two free places plus one 50% reduction


Holiday & Short Break Fair Trading Agreement 2016YOUR CONTRACT WITH US1 You pay a depositWhen you make your booking, you must completea booking form, accepting on behalf of your party,the terms of this Fair Trading Agreement, and alsopay a deposit of £50 per person per holiday for UKmainland tours and £60 per person per holiday forall other destinations. Please refer to page 31 forTravel Insurance information.

2 You pay the balanceThe balance payment of the holiday must be paidvia the office at which you made your booking atleast 6 weeks before the holiday departure date (atleast 9 weeks for Thursford Spectacular shortbreaks) If you book within the applicable balancedue period you must pay the full holiday cost atthe time of booking. If the balance is not paid intime we reserve the right to cancel your holiday,retain your deposit, and apply cancellation chargesset out in paragraph 4 - “If you cancel yourholiday”.

3 If you change your bookingIf, after our confirmation has been issued, youwish to change to another of our holidays, orchange departure date, we will do our utmost tomake the changes, provided that writtennotification is received at our office from theperson who signed the booking form, not laterthan the date on which the original holidaybalance was due for payment. This must beaccompanied by a payment of £10 to coveradministration costs. Any alteration made by youlater than the original balance date will be treatedas a cancellation of the original booking and will besubject to the cancellation charges set out below.You may only transfer to another tour departingwithin the current year. If you wish to make atransfer, it has to be to a completely newdeparture, you may not simply transfer the fundsto another existing booking

Other alterations such as the addition ofrequests or a change of boarding point thatrequire reconfirmation to be issued must benotified and accompanied by a payment of £5 tocover administration costs.

Other alterations such as the addition ofrequests or a change of boarding point receivedless than 15 days before departure must benotified and accompanied by a payment of £5 tocover administration costs.

4 If you cancel/curtail your holidayYou, or any members of your party may cancelyour holiday at any time provided that thecancellation is made by the person signing thebooking form and is communicated to us in writingvia the office at which you made your booking. Asthis incurs administration costs we will retain yourdeposit and, in addition, apply the cancellationcharges shown below:

NOTIFICATION RECEIVED IN WRITING:

Before balance due date* : DEPOSIT ONLY

On, or after balance due date:

100% OF TOTAL HOLIDAY COST

*The balance due date will be clearly stated onyour invoice.If the reason for cancellation is covered under theterms of your travel insurance policy, you may beable to reclaim these charges.

If you are prevented from travelling you maytransfer your booking to another person(substitute), however, as this incurs administrationcosts a nominal charge of £5 will be charged. Both

you and your substitute will be equally responsibleto pay any balance due and your substitute will berequired to purchase the appropriate travelinsurance. If you curtail your holiday, 100%cancellation charges apply.

5 If you have a complaintIf you have a complaint during your holiday, pleaseinform BOTH the supplier (e.g. Hotel) AND yourdriver/courier immediately who will do his/herutmost to resolve the problem. If the mattercannot be put right on the spot, you mustcomplete a complaint report form which can beobtained from your driver/courier and follow upthe matter in writing within 14 days of thecompletion of your holiday. Details of yourcomplaint must be sent to The Tour Manager,Boon’s Calibre Travel, The Homestead, UltingRoad, Hatfield Peverel, Chelmsford, Essex, CM32LY quoting your booking reference, holidaydestination and departure date. It is therefore acondition of this contract that you communicateany problem to the supplier of the service inquestion AND to the driver/courier whilst in theresort and complete a written report form. Failureto establish your complaint, in writing,immediately in accordance with the aboveprocedure will mean that we cannot acceptresponsibility since we have been deprived of theopportunity to investigate and rectify the problem.Claims made after completion of the tour forwhich the supplier and driver/courier have notbeen informed and a complaint form has notbeen completed will not be entertained since noprior notice of the problem has been given andthus the opportunity to investigate/rectify theproblem has not been given. (see page 26, item 5).

Note: The “Client Satisfaction & Comment Forms”that we distribute at the end of your tour arefeedback forms, NOT complaint report forms.

6 Statutory Authorities Our brochures/leaflets are issued subject toapplicable Acts of Parliament and GovernmentRegulations and the company reserves the right tomodify itineraries to conform with requests fromthe competent authorities in the United Kingdomand any other sovereign state through which thetours run.

7 Conditions of Carriage When you travel on an aircraft, train or ship, theconditions of carriage of that carrier apply and aresubject to National and International conditionswhich may limit or exclude liability. Your contractmade under the terms of this Fair TradingAgreement is subject to English (Scottish) law andjurisdiction. Should any coach journeys beoperated by vehicles other than owned by ourpreferred Coach operator the specification maybe different to that detailed in ourbrochures/leaflets. The Public Service Vehicles(Conduct of Drivers, Conductors and Passengers)Regulations as amended 1990, apply to allcoaches throughout any holiday in the UK.

8 Other Terms a) In consideration to other travellers, on a holidayyou may not: (i) Bring a pet or other animal (exceptguide dogs in UK and Eire, by prior arrangement),(ii) Play a radio or similar item on a coach, (iii)Smoke while on a coach (iv) Take calls from mobiletelephones while on a coach, unless in anemergency (v) Make calls from mobile telephoneswhile on a coach, unless absolutely necessary andit can be done without annoyance to others.b) You are responsible for ensuring that you are atthe correct departure point at the correct time, we

cannot be liable for any loss or expense sufferedby clients because of their late arrival at anydeparture point.c) All listed excursions are included in the price ofall holidays unless stated otherwise, refundscannot be made to passengers not wishing to takepart in included excursions.d) Admission fees and fares for attractions are notincluded in the price of the holiday unlessotherwise stated in the tour description.e) Hold luggage must consist of no more than onemedium sized suitcase per person (max size: 20” x28”, max weight: 20 kilos), correctly labelled with aBoon’s Calibre Travel label. The desire to takeadditional items, such as collapsible wheelchairs,should be notified to the Boon’s Calibre Traveloffice in writing. Your driver will load your luggageon to the coach but it is your responsibility toensure that it is actually loaded. We will onlyaccept responsibility for loss or damage toluggage if it is as a direct result of improperhandling by one of our staff. Please do not leaveluggage or personal belongings on unattendedcoaches overnight, we cannot acceptresponsibility for loss or damage to items left inthis way.

9 Rights of RefusalBoon’s Calibre Travel reserves the unconditionalright to refuse a booking, or terminate a clientsholiday in the event of unreasonable conductwhich in Boon’s Calibre Travels opinion is likely tocause damage, distress, danger, or annoyance toother clients, employees, property, or to any thirdparty. If you are prevented from travelling orcontinuing your holiday by such a termination,Boon’s Calibre Travels responsibility for yourholiday ceases. Full cancellation charges will applyand Boon’s Calibre Travel will be under noobligation for any refund, compensation, or loss,which you may incur.

10 Infectious or Contagious DiseasesFor the health and safety of our clients and staff,we cannot accommodate travellers who have aninfectious or contagious medical condition. If youhave had such a condition within 14 days prior totravel please let us know and supply a doctor’sconfirmation to indicate that your condition is nolonger contagious. Should you fall ill during yourholiday please advise your coach driver and thehotel reception immediately. Infectious orcontagious diseases can be passed on veryquickly; in order to protect others we reserve theright to request that you and your party leave, orbe confined to your room, if we believe that yourcondition makes this necessary. You will not beable to return home on the coach if you are stillinfectious/contagious on the final day of yourholiday. Should you knowingly travel whileinfectious/contagious you may be heldresponsible for any resulting illness, expense orinconvenience caused to our clients, staff and/orany third party. If you are refused travel or askedto leave, full cancellation/curtailment charges willapply and we will not be held responsible for anyexpense you may incur. If you are confined to yourroom, no refunds will be made.

11 Holiday Insurance We strongly recommend that you take outadequate insurance to cover you for cancellation,illness, personal injury, or death during the courseof your holiday and take no responsibility for anyexpense incurred as a result of you havinginsufficient, or no, insurance protection. Pleaserefer to page 31 for additional information.


12 People with special needsWe accept bookings from people with specialneeds, however, any disability must be highlightedby forwarding a letter with all details to the Boon’sCalibre Travel office, please ensure that the letteris acknowledged. We stress that we cannotguarantee any requests that are made, but wenormally find that most hotels respond favourablyin such circumstances. If we are not informed inthis way we cannot be held responsible for anyinconvenience or costs incurred by the client andthis may include our refusal to take you on holidayor to complete your holiday arrangements. Pleasenote that 100% cancellation charges would apply in these circumstances. You should be aware thatalthough many hotels cater for wheelchairs therestill might be steps or stairs to contend with (thiswill also apply to places visited on excursions). Wewould strongly recommend that people withspecial needs do not travel alone unless they aretotally self-sufficient. Our coach drivers will gladlygive assistance when required, however, it is notpossible for the coach driver, or fellowpassengers, to become full-time carers for theduration of the tour. We regret that we are unableto accept bookings from customers whose specialneeds make them heavily dependant on others,unless they are accompanied by a dedicatedtravelling companion who will assist themthroughout the tour. Should the decision to refusea booking be disputed by the customer, a Doctors‘Certificate of Fitness to Travel Unaccompanied’will be required (at customers own expense).

13 Accommodation and Special RequirementsPlease provide written notification when bookingof any special requirements (e.g. special diets). Wewill note these requirements on your bookingconfirmation and do our utmost to satisfy them,however, we cannot guarantee that they will bemet and hence their provision is not a condition ofthis contract. Nevertheless, hotels are usuallysympathetic to requests relating to medicalmatters. Requests for double rooms arehonoured wherever possible, however, sincemany modern hotels have a majority of twinrooms this cannot be guaranteed. All rooms haveprivate facilities and this is deemed to have beenaffected by the provision of either a bath and WCor a shower and WC, requests for one or theother can only be treated as requests. Singlerooms will be sold to you at the supplement (ifany) specified in the tour description. Additionalsingle rooms over and above our originalallocation, which is usually 4-8 rooms, may attracta surcharge levied by the hotel.

14 Passports and VisasFor all Continental holidays you will require a full 10-year British Passport. If you have any doubtsabout your status as a resident British subject, oryou do not hold a full British Passport, you mustcheck with the Embassies or Consulates of thecountries to be visited to confirm the passport orvisa requirements needed in your particularcircumstances. We cannot accept responsibility ifpassengers are not in possession of the correcttravel documents.

15 Heath Under normal circumstances, most WesternEuropean Countries do not require visitors to bevaccinated. However, we will indicate any knownvaccination or other health requirements wherepossible for each country to be visited. If you areunsure of the health requirements of the countryyou are visiting, you are advised to check with yourdoctor before travelling.

OUR PROMISE TO YOU1 We reserve your HolidayWhen you or your travel agent has provisionallyconfirmed that we have space on the holiday ofyour choice, a confirmation/invoice will beforwarded to you normally within 14 days ofreceipt of your signed booking form and deposit.The contract is made between us when youreceive this confirmation. Provisional bookings will only be held for 14 days.

2 Your Holiday Price Holiday prices include all coach travel, hotelaccommodation, and meals, as specified in theholiday description, and VAT where applicable.Morning coffee, afternoon tea, and otherrefreshments taken at establishments en-routeare not included. Some hotels may make a smallcharge for porterage and tea/coffee served afterdinner. Gratuities to hotel staff and driver/couriersare discretionary. Unless specifically indicated inthe tour itinerary or description, entrance feesand guide fees are not included in the holidaycost. Extras at hotels (such as newspapers,telephone calls, and room service etc), middaymeals and other refreshments taken during thetour, all admissions to attractions and places ofinterest, fares for boat trips (other than thosewhich are a necessary part of the journey), andfares for train rides, are NOT included in theholiday cost unless otherwise stated.

The price of your holiday is subject tosurcharges resulting from the following: fuelincreases, government action, including additionalbonding or licensing requirements, VAT, taxes, orlevies by the UK (or overseas) government orgovernment agencies. In all cases we reserve theright to pass on these amounts in full. However,for other increases such as those resulting fromcurrency fluctuations, and increases in scheduledfares, we will absorb an amount equivalent to 2%of the holiday price which excludes insurancepremiums and any amendment charges. Onlyamounts in excess of this 2% will be surcharged,but where a surcharge is payable there will be anadministration charge of £1 per person togetherwith an amount to cover agents commission. Ifthis means paying more than 10% on the holidayprice, you will be entitled to cancel your holidaywith a full refund of all money paid except for anypremium paid to us for holiday insurance andamendment charges. Should you decide to cancelbecause of this, you must exercise your right to doso within 14 days from the issue date printed onthe invoice. Surcharges will not be imposed within30 days of departure date.

3 If we change your holidayThe arrangements for holidays in our brochures/leaflets are made many months in advance andchanges are sometimes unavoidable. However,most of these changes are very minor, but wherethey are significant we will notify you as soon asreasonably possible before your departure date.

A “significant change” is one that involveschanging your departure date; resort area orreducing the quality of your main hotel. Changingthe location of a single overnight hotel does notconstitute a significant change nor do minorchanges between original and final itineraries. Inthe event of a “significant change” you may decideto: [a] continue with your holiday as amended; [b]accept an alternative holiday, which we may offeryou (with price adjustment as appropriate); or [c]cancel your booking. If you cancel your booking wewill refund all monies paid by you. No other claims

for compensation or expenses will be considered.

4 If we cancel your holidayWe reserve the right to cancel your holiday, if forexample, there is insufficient demand, and if thisshould occur we would return to you all themonies you have paid to us or offer you a suitablealternative holiday. However, we will not normallycancel your holiday within 3 weeks of departureunless (a) you have not paid for your holiday in fullor (b) your holiday is influenced by, war or threatof war, adverse weather conditions riots, civilstrife, terrorist activity, industrial disputes, naturalor nuclear disasters, fire, epidemic or health risk,technical problems to transport, closure orcongestion of ports, or similar events beyond ourcontrol. If we have to cancel your holiday, we areliable only for monies you have paid to us.

5 What happens to complaints?All complaints that are received are thoroughlyinvestigated and customers kept informed at eachstage of the investigation, however, sometimesthese investigations can take time awaitingresponse from our suppliers. We can normallyagree an amicable settlement of the few seriouscomplaints that we receive if the complaint isfound to be genuine. For complaints made as aresult of component parts of your holiday asadvertised in our brochures/leaflets not beingsupplied to you to a reasonable standard we willpay you a reasonable compensation provided that the complaint is genuine and the correctcomplaints procedure has been followed.However, our overall liability is limited by theexclusions below and our liability to each claimantis limited to the total cost of the holiday perperson. (Please refer to “Your contract with us”item 5 for complaints procedure and “OurPromise to You” items 6, 7, 8 and 9 which refer toliability, hotel amenities, brochure/leaflet accuracy,and running times).

6 Liability We accept no responsibility for and shall not beliable in respect of the non-provision of advertisedcomponent parts of your holiday, or any loss,damage or additional expense incurred due tocircumstances which we could not predict andwhich were beyond our control, such as adverseweather, road or traffic conditions, or the mattersreferred to in paragraph 4 (b) above.

7 Hotel amenitiesWe will not be liable for the unavailability of thefollowing hotel amenities: amenities (e.g. hotellifts and swimming pools etc) that requireservicing, repair and cleaning and may nottherefore be available at all times, services thatmay be affected by weather conditions and theiravailability is entirely at the discretion of theprovider of the service, entertainment providedby hotels which is often subject to demand andits nature and/or frequency may be varied ifthere is a lack of demand or insufficientnumbers staying at the hotel.

8 Accuracy of brochures/leafletsIn all cases all descriptions of hotels, resorts,places of interest etc are published in good faith and are believed to be correct at the timeof printing.

9 Published Running Times The published running times of services areestimates only and we will not be liable for anyloss (howsoever caused) arising from delay orfailure to operate services in accordance withpublished timings.

Holiday & Short Break Fair Trading Agreement 2016


Colchester, Tollgate & Stanway*Marks Tey, Feering & Kelvedon Maldon, Heybridge & LangfordWitham (Old Post Office, Town Hall, Bridge Hosp)Hatfield PeverelBorehamChelmer Village (Henniker Gate & ASDA) Springfield (Pump Ln, Lawn Ln, New Bowers etc)Springfield Rd (Plough, Lionmede, Balmoral Ct)Broomfield Rd, The ParadeChelmsford, Melbourne & Chignal

WrittleChelmsford, Victoria Road (rail stn coach bays)Chelmsford, Waterhouse Lane Chelmsford, New London RoadChelmsford, Wood StreetChelmsford, Gloucester AvenueGt Baddow, Baddow Rd, Vineyards & Readers CnrGalleywood & MargarettingIngatestone & MountnessingStock & BillericayHutton, Shenfield & Brentwood

SCHEDULED BOARDING POINTS(Other boarding points may be available on request. For special arrangements for groups, see page 24, for additional boarding points for holidays & short breaks please see page 28).

*Car Parking: There is limited free car parking at Kings Coaches depot in Stanway nr Colchester (must be pre-booked).

All of the boarding points listed above are available at the time of booking should they be required, however, due tonatural demand only a selection will be utilised for any one particular tour. Therefore, if you book within 14 days ofdeparture, only those boarding points already selected will be available to you (unless the additional boarding point can be added without re-arrangement of the planned boarding route).

At the discretion of the management, cars and/or taxis may be used to reduce boarding times for holidays andshort breaks.

1 Call Suzanne on 01245 382 397 to check availability and place a provisional booking (or email [email protected] with your enquiry)

2 Read our Holiday Fair Trading Agreement thoroughly, and then forward your completed booking form and your deposit within two weeks of booking to the address on the rear of this brochure. Please refer to page 31 for travel insurance information. Payment can be made via the following methods: cheque,cash, bank transfer, credit card or debit card.

3 Holiday bookings will receive confirmation and date for final balance payment* within two weeks of receipt of deposit.*It is not our policy to send out receipts for final balance payments prior to issuing your final travel documents,however, if you require a receipt please include a SAE with your balance payment or supply your email address.

Please make all cheques payable to: Boon’s Calibre Travel

DEPOSIT for UK mainland tours: £50 per person

DEPOSIT for Continental & Channel Island tours: £60 per person

NOTES: (1) All accommodation is on a half-board (dinner, bed and breakfast) basis unless otherwise stated. Allbedrooms have en-suite facilities. (2) Price includes: All coach travel, hotel accommodation and meals (as described in the tour description see note(1) above), all listed excursions, and ‘extras’, fares and admissions as specified. (3) Price does not include: extras at hotelssuch as telephone calls, newspapers etc, admissions and fares for attractions, lunches and any other refreshments taken(unless otherwise stated). (4) We do not operate the “feeder coach and interchange” system of boarding, therefore youwill remain on the coach that collected you from your local boarding point for the duration of the tour. However, carsand/or taxis may be used, where deemed necessary, in order to reduce boarding times.

Boarding Points for Holidays & Short Breaks

How to book your Holiday or Short Break


Please note that there is a limit to our resources for this service, and places will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis. We are only able to guarantee home pickups that are booked at the time of making your holidayreservation. Retrospective requests are subject to availability.For areas not covered by the above list or our scheduled boarding list, please call for supplement; we will do ourutmost to accommodate travellers, however, it may not be practical to cover your area.Please note that you may have to share your car/taxi with other passengers.We are also able to accommodate passengers (such as friends or relatives) who live outside Essex provided it doesnot add to the journey. Service stations en-route or scheduled lunch or comfort stops would be suitable places forthem to board.

We can now accommodate travellers in the following areas for an additional supplement, this supplement willcontribute to the cost of a taxi/car from home to one of our listed boarding points and vice versa:

Bicknacre

Braintree

Broomfield

Coggeshall

Danbury

Dunmow

Ford End

Great Totham

Great Leighs

Great Waltham

Little Baddow

Little Waltham

Pleshey

Wickham Bishops

South Woodham Ferrers

Additional Boarding Points for Holidays & Short Breaks

YOUR FINANCIAL SECURITYAll money received in respect ofholidays in our brochures/leaflets will be deposited in a separate bankaccount, which is protected in theevent of the insolvency of Boon’sCalibre Travel. All monies placed in this account will remain there untilsuch time as: [a] the tour to whichthe monies refer has been fullyperformed, [b] the company hasrepaid the money to the passenger, or [c] the passenger has, uponcancellation, forfeited the money paid.REPATRIATIONWe have a repatriation agreement inforce with our coach supplier, whichmeans that in the unlikely event of thefinancial failure of Boon’s CalibreTravel during your holiday you will bereturned home. COMPUTERISED CUSTOMERRECORDSWhen you place a booking or make an enquiry your name, address andtelephone number will be enteredonto our own computerised customerrecords and will be used to facilitatethe booking of your day excursion orholiday and for the distribution of ourown promotional material. Your detailswill not be passed to a third party. Ifyou do not wish us to record yourdetails, please indicate when makingyour initial enquiry/ booking. If yourequire us to remove existing details

Additional Booking Information wheelchairs etc on the coach.However, we request that you adviseus of any special needs, and that younotify us if you intend to bring amobility aid. We are then able toadvise you on the suitability of thetour, and can also notify all partiesconcerned. Please refer to our FairTrading Agreement, Your Contract with Us, Item 12 for further details &conditions.INFECTIOUS OR CONTAGIOUSDISEASESFor all departures: For the health andSafety of our clients and staff, wecannot accommodate travellers whohave an infectious or contagiousmedical condition (eg. Norovirus). Ifyou have had such a condition within14 days prior to travel please let usknow and supply a doctor’sconfirmation to indicate that yourcondition is no longer contagious. For holidays & short breaks: Shouldyou fall ill during your holiday orshort break, please advise yourcoach driver and the hotel receptionimmediately. Infectious orcontagious diseases can be passedon very quickly; in order to protectothers we reserve the right torequest that you and your partyleave, or be confined to your room, if we believe that your conditionmakes this necessary.

from our records please contact usand we will gladly do so.VEHICLESBoon’s Calibre Travel holidays and dayexcursions will use vehicles suppliedby Kings Coaches of Stanway nearColchester, except in circumstancesbeyond our control, in which case,vehicles of comparable standard andspecification will be used.ITINERARIESDue to the fact that this brochure has been prepared many months inadvance of the departure date of our2016 tours there may be slightdifferences between initial and finalitineraries. Any changes will be madein the best interest of our clients andwill be of a minor nature.TRAVELLING ABROADIf travelling abroad please ensurethat you have a valid 10-yearpassport. You will also need aEuropean Health Insurance Card(forms available from the Post Office),this will enable you to reclaimmedical expenses incurred in certainEuropean countries. See Fair TradingAgreement for more information.

SPECIAL NEEDSWe endeavour to provideholidays and short breakswhich may be enjoyed by

all of our customers, and are happy to accommodate frames & folding

Boon’s Calibre Travel Holiday & Short Break Booking Form(Please complete both sides, detach, and return with your payment)Please include full contact details for all passengers (attach a separate sheet if necessary)

Name

Address

Telephone

E-mail

Cheques payable to: Boon’s Calibre Travel

Holiday and Short Break deposit:£50 per person per holiday for UK tours£60 per person per holiday for Continental & Channel Island toursTravel insurance, please refer to page 31

Name

Address

Telephone

E-mail

I/We* have read, and agree to bide by, the Trading Terms & Conditions of Boon’s Calibre Travel.

Signed:

Date:

!

!

I/We* enclose the sum of £.................................. comprising:

(*delete as appropriate) Deposit/Full payment* £........................................

Single supplement £........................................

Other supplement £........................................

TOTAL £..................................

q Cheque enclosed

Already paid via: q Cardq Bank transfer

Boon’s Calibre Travel Holiday & Short Break Booking Form(Please complete both sides, detach, and return with your payment)Please include full contact details for all passengers (attach a separate sheet if necessary)

Name

Address

Telephone

E-mail

Cheques payable to: Boon’s Calibre Travel

Holiday and Short Break deposit:£50 per person per holiday for UK tours£60 per person per holiday for Continental & Channel Island toursTravel insurance, please refer to page 31

Name

Address

Telephone

E-mail

I/We* have read, and agree to bide by, the Trading Terms & Conditions of Boon’s Calibre Travel.

Signed:

Date:

I/We* enclose the sum of £.................................. comprising:

(*delete as appropriate) Deposit/Full payment* £........................................

Single supplement £........................................

Other supplement £........................................

TOTAL £..................................

q Cheque enclosed

Already paid via: q Cardq Bank transfer

!

!

Boon’s Calibre Travel Holiday & Short Break Booking Form(Please complete both sides, detach, and return with your payment)

Destination:

Departure Date:

Seat Number(s)

Boarding Point:

Special Request(s)

Preferred Room Type:(For single or triple rooms please confirm availability before booking)

(Mobility, diet etc)

Boon’s Calibre Travel Homestead, Ulting Road, Hatfield Peverel, Chelmsford, CM3 2LY. Tel: (01245) 382 397

Single Double Twin Triple(Requests for double rooms cannot be guaranteed since many modern hotels have a majority of twin bedded rooms)

Next of Kin (for emergency use only) For office use only: Payment Date:

Tel: Amount: £ Cheque/Cash/Card/Bank

Boon’s Calibre Travel Holiday & Short Break Booking Form(Please complete both sides, detach, and return with your payment)

Destination:

Departure Date:

Seat Number(s)

Boarding Point:

Special Request(s)

Preferred Room Type:(For single or triple rooms please confirm availability before booking)

Boon’s Calibre Travel Homestead, Ulting Road, Hatfield Peverel, Chelmsford, CM3 2LY. Tel: (01245) 382 397

Single Double Twin Triple(Requests for double rooms cannot be guaranteed since many modern hotels have a majority of twin bedded rooms)

Next of Kin (for emergency use only) For office use only: Payment Date:

Tel: Amount: £ Cheque/Cash/Card/Bank

Drivers side front

Kerbside front

Drivers side rear

Kerbside rear

5B (18)4B (14)3B (10)2B (6)1B (2) 6B (22) 7B (26) 8B (30) 9B (34) 10B (38) 11B (42) 12B (46) 13B (50)5A (17)4A (13)3A (9)2A (5)1A (1) 6A (21) 7A (25) 8A (29) 9A (33) 10A (37) 11A (41) 12A (45) 13A (49)

5D (19)4D (15)3D (11)2D (7)1D (3) SERVERY 9D (35) 10D (39) 11D (43) 12D (47) 13D (51)5E (20)4E (16)3E (12)2E (8)1E (4) WC 9E (36) 10E (40) 11E (44) 12E (48) 13E (52)

8D (31)8E (32)

14B (54)14A (53)

14D (56)14E (57)

14C (55)

5E (20)4E (16)3E (12)2E (8)

Drivers side front

Kerbside front

Drivers side rear

Kerbside rear

1E (4) 6E (24) 7E (28) 8E (32)5D (19)4D (15)3D (11)2D (7)1D (3) 6D (23) 7D (27) 8D (31)

5B (18)4B (14)3B (10)2B (6)1B (2) 6B (22) 7B (26) 8B (30)5A (17)4A (13)3A (9)2A (5)1A (1) 6A (21) 7A (25) 8A (29)

9B (34) SERVERYSERVERY

WCWC

SERVERY9A (33)

SEAT ALLOCATION: You may choose your coach seat from those available and then the allocated seat isyours for the duration of the holiday or excursion. The plans above are the most commonly used seatingarrangements, however, occasionally coaches with a different layout are used, necessitating reallocation of some seats. In this case your new seat will be allocated as close to the original as possible. *Note: some 53 seater coaches have an alternative layout and seats 31 & 32 are behind the WC & servery (not

in front, as shown above).

We strongly recommend that you are adequately insured when you travel on any of our holidays.Prior to departure, we will request that you provide us with details of your insurers, your policynumber and the emergency number stated on your policy.From the 1st January 2009, the sale of travel insurance connected to holiday or related travel was regulatedby the Financial Services Authority, and as a result, from this date, we were no longer able to offer you travelinsurance, or advise you on travel insurance related matters.We will enclose a leaflet from Towergate Chapman Stevens, our preferred Insurance Brokers, with yourbooking confirmation, which will give you information on how to purchase Travel Insurance from them.Towergate Chapman Stevens are travel insurance specialists in the coaching industry.Although we strongly recommend that you are adequately insured when you travel on any of our holidays, itis not a condition of travel for our UK mainland tours that you have insurance cover. However, for all othertours (Continental, Channel Isles etc) insurance cover is compulsory. Please remember that Travel Insurancecovers you for cancellation charges and other losses, not just medical treatment. Please refer to ourcancellation terms on page 25 of our brochure.

Office 01245 382397 Mobile 07899 738 963 Website www.boons-holidays.co.uk Email [email protected]


Coach Holiday Travel Insurance

Gift VouchersStuck for ideas for Christmas, birthdays or any other special occasion? Our gift vouchers make a popular and much appreciated present for friendsand family. Vouchers can be issued for any amount and are redeemable for both day excursionsand holidays. CALL US NOW!

34 SEAT EXECUTIVE COACH (all non-smoking, seatbelts must be worn)

*53 SEAT EXECUTIVE COACH (all non-smoking, seatbelts must be worn)

CoachSeating Plans

QUALITY HOLIDAYS & DAY EXCURSIONS BY COACH

Bookings & Enquiries

01245 382 397Mobile

07899 738 963Information

www.boons-holidays.co.uk

Our Awards…

Holidays, Short Breaks & Day Excursionsby coach for 2016

Local boarding points No feeder coaches Friendly family business

Boon’s Calibre Travel Homestead, Ulting Road, Hatfield Peverel, Chelmsford, Essex CM3 2LY Tel: (01245) 382 397

E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.boons-holidays.co.uk

Award winning

Calibre Travel

award winning calibre travel - 2016_feb15_v7.pdf · dunwich, where we enjoy lunch at flora...

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