hf leisure activities britain & europe

leisureactivitiesBritain | Europe

2012

ENJOY

LEARNCREATE

HAVE FUN

DANCING

MUSIC

TOURS

COOKING

BRIDGE

ART & CRAFTS...

Contents Page

Dance awayLearn the steps, feel the music,make new friends Dancing 6-7

Get creativeWith photography, paint, paperor ink Photography 8-9Art & Crafts 10-12

Enjoy the arts Nothing beats listening to great music or a live performance Theatre 13Festivals 14-15Music Appreciation 20-21

Cooking and cultureJoin our popular cooking holidays, or our new food-lovers tours and language holidays Cooking, Food Tours 17Language Holidays 17

Relax and unwindSpoil yourself with a few days’ relaxing Yoga, Tai Chi or Pilates Mind & Body 18-19

Make music Making music is always more fun with a sociable group Music Making 22-23Singing 24-25

The natural worldGet up close and discover the natural world in all its glory Natural World 26-27

Play bridgeFriendly competition is the hallmark of all our bridge holidays Bridge 28-30

Explore Join our friendly mini-coach tours and discover the rich heritage and wonderful landscapes of Britain and Europe Garden Tours 31-33Heritage Tours 34-37Literary Tours 38-39Discovery Tours 40-47Discovery Tours Afloat 47City Breaks 48-50

Information to help you choose and book your holiday Introduction to our holidays 4-5Freedom Breaks 51Accommodation 52-61Membership 62Responsible Tourism & Groups 63Conditions of booking 64Holiday information 65Insurance 66How to book 67

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Enjoy. Learn. Create.“Wonderful activities provided by people who care about what they are doing”Penny Witham – Manchester(William Morris & Burne-Jones holiday)

Expert leadersOur specialist leaders, guides and tutors lead all our leisure activities. They are trustworthy, knowledgeable and inspiring. Learn new skills and seek new inspiration.

High quality accommodationWe know how important the quality of accommodation is to our guests. Therefore we are pleased that our UK Country Houses and overseas partner hotels rate at 86% very good or good for bedrooms, and 91% very good or good for food. To read more about our accommodation see pages 52-61.

Award winning serviceWe believe that we offer a mix of high quality, excellent service and good value, and it seems that our guests agree. They voted HF Holidays the best large tour operator in the 2010 Guardian and Observer Travel Awards, achieving 97.4% satisfaction.

Great companySociability is at the heart of our holidays. The atmosphere appeals to guests travelling alone, with family or with friends. Meet people who enjoy the same activity as you.

Excellent value for money All holidays based at our UK Country Houses are Full Board – all you have to pay for are drinks in the bar. For our overseas holidays we offer the choice of booking with or without flights, allowing you to choose the travel arrangements that suit you best.

We’re a co-operativeHF Holidays is the only holiday provider in the UK that is a co-operative. We are owned by our 31,000+ members and have no big corporate shareholders. All profits are reinvested into improving our holidays. See page 62 for information about becoming a member.

ExperienceWe’ve been helping people enjoy their holidays for almost 100 years. Planning and attention to detail is important to us. We want your holiday to run like clockwork.

More choiceAs well as our extensive range of leisure activities we’re also well-known for our walking holidays. These run throughout the year at all our locations in Britain and Europe – a great option for friends and partners who may not enjoy the same activity as you.

Alternatively why not add a few days’ relaxation and gentle sightseeing by booking a Freedom Break (see page 51)? You may want to extend your stay and enjoy a longer holiday, or even enjoy a two-centre holiday at two of our Country Houses.

Active. Sociable. Trusted. Co-operative.

Recommend a FriendDo you know someone who enjoys the same activities? – invite any new guest to join one of our holidays and you can both save £50. See page 67 for further details. Go on, spread the word and save £££££s.

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Our experienced leaders are the cornerstone of our leisure activity holidays. As well as being experts in their field, we carefully select those with a welcoming approach and strong communication skills. We want you to relax and enjoy your holiday to the full.

We have over 100 leaders – you’ll find details of all of them on our website. Here’s just a selection:

Judith Wallace is well-known to our regular music-making guests as the leader of many of our Music Making and Singing holidays. Always bustling with enthusiasm, any holiday with Judith is sure to be a great success.

David Barrett is a professional photographer and tutor based near Sedbergh in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. As well as being a fan of the great outdoors he enjoys helping photographers of all abilities to develop their potential.

Chrissie Le Marchant is a popular leader of our Discovery and Heritage Tours. As a Blue Badge Guide, and part-time manager of a country park in Cornwall, she loves sharing her passion for the countryside with our guests.

TV gardener Christine Walkden makes regular appearances on the BBC’s One Show. Her wealth of horticultural knowledge and enthusiastic personality bring gardens to life.

Chris Howes is a pianist and music history lecturer with a particular interest in jazz. He’ll broaden your understanding of this fascinating musical style with his customary expert knowledge, humour and conviviality.

Robin Andrews has a passion for folk music and plays harmonica (National Champion 1999), guitar, percussion and the ukulele. He loves passing on his skills and enthusiasm on our Music Making and Festivals holidays.

Titch Glenday works for the English Bridge Union, travelling around the country training bridge teachers and running events. Her enthusiasm for the game is infectious and her wealth of knowledge will help you hone your winning skills.

Meet our leaders

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ing Dancing

• Step out and enjoy dancing styles from around the world• Expert tuition from experienced leaders will develop your moves• Fun for all levels, from complete beginners to the more advanced

Introduction to BallroomInspired by Strictly Come Dancing? Learn the basic steps of the waltz, quickstep and the cha-cha-cha on these fun introductory breaks. We might not turn you into champions overnight but we will teach you enough to impress your friends on any dance floor.

Location Leader Date Code Price

Selworthy Melvyn Jurd Mon 19 Mar (4nts) SLDAB £399

Malhamdale Ron & Elaine Stilwell Wed 19 Sept (3nts) MDDAB £299


Whitby Terry & Avril McCrum Mon 23 Apr (4nts) WYDAI £399

Haytor Melvyn Jurd Mon 15 Oct (4nts) HYDAI £399

Introduction to Salsa & TangoDiscover these two fun dances on an action-packed short break. Salsa is the spicy dance import from Cuba whereas tango is impressive, sophisticated and showy, with its origins in Argentina. There’ll be style tips and advice on technique.

Salsa & TangoMove your salsa and tango up a gear with some expert tuition to improve your technique. We’ll also introduce you to the merengue from the Dominican Republic and the romantic accordion-backed Vallenato from Colombia.


Malhamdale Krissy Craig Fri 24 Feb (3nts) MDDTB £299

Abingworth Paul Bottomer Fri 2 Nov (3nts) AWDTB £299


Brecon Paul Bottomer Fri 13 Apr (3nts) BRDTA £299

Dovedale Krissy Craig Fri 12 Oct (3nts) DVDTA £299

Ballroom DancingYou’ve learnt the steps, now you want to improve your dancing in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Sessions will build on the basics and take your enjoyment of these fantastic dance styles further.

Bluffers’ Guide to Social DancingTwo left feet? No sense of rhythm? No problem! Whether joining the bride and groom for their wedding waltz or preparing for that well-earned retirement cruise, we’ll show you the basic steps. You’ll learn a little waltz and be able to sociably foxtrot your way out of trouble.


Alnmouth Lisa & Paul Williams Mon 26 Mar (4nts) ALDSD £399

Haytor Melvyn Jurd Sat 8 Sept (4nts) HYDSD £399

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Introduction to Le RocLe Roc – also known as modern jive – originated in France. Its influences include swing, rock and roll, and a spicy dose of salsa. This modern style partner dance is popular with all ages and is a great social dance.

Le RocIf you’ve learnt the basic steps of Le Roc, we’ll help to move you on to the next level with plenty of individual feedback. As your confidence develops you’ll have great fun exploring this adaptable and creative dance.


Abingworth Michael Franklin Fri 5 Oct (3nts) AWDCR £299


Derwentwater Michael Franklin Thurs 3 May (3nts) DBDRC £299

Dance Playford StyleThe elegant moves seen in Pride and Prejudice are just some of the Playford style dances that originated in the 17th and 18th centuries. If you already have experience of folk dancing you’ll enjoy discovering many more, accompanied by authentic music.


Abingworth Barbara Dunn Mon 20 Feb (4nts) AWDFP £375

Malhamdale Ron Coxall Sat 15 Sept (4nts) MDDFP £375

Folk DancingThe folk dancing repertoire, including English Country Dancing, is vast. With the emphasis on fun rather than technical excellence, we’ll guide you through some of the basic figures and styles, gradually introducing more complex ideas as you develop your confidence.

On our Folk Dancing & Walking holidays we also offer guided half-day walks, enabling you to discover the local area on foot.


Folk Dancing

Freshwater Bay Barbara Dunn Fri 30 Dec 2011 (4nts) FWDFX £449

Derwentwater Hilary Vare Mon 5 Mar (4nts) DBDFF £375

Abingworth Paul Garner Fri 20 Apr (3nts) AWDFF £299

Conistonwater Ron Coxall Mon 28 May (5nts) CNDFF £475

Freshwater Bay Paul Garner Sat 13 Oct (7nts) FWDFF £625

Folk Dancing & Walking

Whitby John & Hilary Turner Sat 12 May (7nts) WYDFW £715

Dovedale John & Hilary Turner Sat 14 July (4nts) DVDFW £455

Malhamdale Paul Garner Sun 2 Sept (6nts) MDDFW £625


International Folk Dancing

St Ives Phil & Brenda Steventon Sat 25 Aug (7nts) SVDFI £625

International Folk Dancing & Walking

Dovedale Phil & Brenda Steventon Mon 9 Apr (4nts) DVDWI £455

International Folk DancingJoin us on a dancing tour of the globe, learning the steps and techniques of national folk dances from around the world that provide a great variety of styles. There is a mix of slow, fast, simple or more complex dances to suit all levels of ability. On our International Folk Dancing & Walking holiday enjoy optional guided walks in the afternoons.

Cuban Circle DancingCuban Circle Dancing, or Rueda de Casino as it is known in Spanish, is fun and very sociable. Based on traditional Cuban style salsa, it is danced to Cuban salsa music, and is very easy to learn. There is no need to bring a partner, as dancers constantly swap partners in the circle in response to calls. This is a wonderful way to learn an exciting and authentic new dance.


Abingworth Allan Gater Fri 24 Feb (3nts) AWDCU £299

Selworthy Allan Gater Wed 16 May (3nts) SLDCU £299

Conistonwater Allan Gater Wed 26 Sept (3nts) CNDCU £299

Your holiday in a nutshell• Most of our holidays, especially our ‘Introduction to’ departures, are suitable for complete beginners• For some of our other holidays you’ll need some dancing experience; our leaders will help you progress• Dancing sessions take place each morning, and either in the afternoon or evening• Our Country Houses have good dance floors with sound equipment. Variable speed CD players are used on some holidays• Many guests come on their own; we’ll do our best to arrange partners throughout the holiday• On 7 night holidays we include one free day to explore independently

Enjoy. Learn. Create.We also offer Yoga & Circle Dancing holidays where you can enjoy these two complementary activities – see page 19.


Dovedale Nicola Howarth Fri 6 Apr (3nts) DVDSL £299


Isle of Arran Nicola Howarth Sat 25 Aug (7nts) ARDSW £715

Introduction to Scottish Country Dancing

Designed for beginners or those with a little experience, this holiday will introduce you to the basic formations and footwork in a fun and relaxed environment.

Scottish Country Dancing & WalkingSpecifically for dancers with some experience of Scottish Country Dancing, you should be familiar with the standard figures and be able to dance popular dances. Your expert tutor will introduce you to some new moves and dances, and the guided afternoon walks will allow you to explore the surrounding countryside.

Circle DancingCircle dances celebrate the seasons of the year and the cycles of life, inspired by old songs and dances from around the world. Everyone can join in, with no partners required, making them great fun and easy to learn.

On our Circle Dancing & Walking holidays we also offer guided half-day walks, enabling you to discover the local area on foot.


Circle Dancing

Haytor Anne-Lise Kryger Mon 2 Apr (4nts) HYDCL £375

Conistonwater Anne-Lise Kryger Wed 16 May (3nts) CNDCL £299

Whitby Anne-Lise Kryger Mon 15 Oct (4nts) WYDCL £375

Circle Dancing & Walking

St Ives Anne-Lise Kryger Sat 7 July (7nts) SVDCW £715

Prices include: • Full Board en-suite accommodation with all meals included • A full programme of dancing with a knowledgeable leader • Walks transport where specified

Information• Twin/double premium rooms: £5 per person per night • Single rooms: £8 per night (£5 per night if booked before 31 December 2011)• Value rooms discounted by up to £8 per night, where available • Non member associate fee: £5 per person

Full detailed programmes are available on our website: www.hfholidays.co.uk/dancing

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Landscape PhotographyFrom rural Malhamdale to coastal St Ives, each day we’ll explore by mini-coach or on foot, seeking out the most inspirational images. Most holidays run in spring and autumn to make the best use of the changing light.

Guernsey – make the most of the scenery this island has to offer.

Introduction to Digital PhotographyIf you’re new to digital photography, perhaps making the transition from traditional film, this holiday will take you step by step; from capturing the image to storing and printing your photographs. Suitable for users of basic compacts or top of the range SLRs.

Digital PhotographyFancy getting a bit more technical? This holiday will delve deeper into the possibilities the digital revolution has brought us. We’ll look at how to get the best images from your camera, and at some of the more complex aspects of using software packages.

Photographic EyeSuitable for photographers of any level, and ideal for those that have difficulty setting up a shot, we will focus on the important elements of composing an image including subject choice, depth and perspective, and framing the image. The holiday will consist of fun tutorials and on-location assignments.


Abingworth Derek Forss Mon 12 Mar (4nts) AWEPD £415

Bourton-on-the-Water Alan Cowderoy Sat 21 July (4nts) BNEPD £415

Whitby Kel Portman Sat 22 Sept (4nts) WYEPD £415


Malhamdale David White Mon 19 Mar (4nts) MDEPE £415

Brecon Steve Boniwell Wed 6 Jun (3nts) BREPE £315

Conistonwater Kel Portman Mon 29 Oct (4nts) CNEPE £415


Dovedale Kel Portman Mon 9 Apr (4nts) DVEPS £415

Haytor Steve Boniwell Sat 23 June (4nts) HYEPS £415

Alnmouth Alan Cowderoy Mon 29 Oct (4nts) ALEPS £415

Photography• Holidays for all levels, from complete beginners to advanced photographers• Expert leaders will help you get the best results• Inspirational photography locations

Focus on LightThese holidays are for the keen and aspiring landscape photographer.

Staying at locations that we feel will provide the best images, we will actively pursue the very best light of the day. This may involve rising before dawn and/or staying out after sunset.


Derwentwater David Barrett Mon 20 Feb (4nts) DBEPT £449

Selworthy Steve Bullen Mon 26 Mar (4nts) SLEPT £449

Dolgellau Derek Forss Mon 23 Apr (7nts) DGEPT £745

St Ives David White Sat 8 Sept (7nts) SVEPT £745

Isle of Arran Derek Forss Sat 13 Oct (7nts) AREPT £745

Malhamdale Alan Cowderoy Mon 12 Nov (4nts) MDEPT £449


Malhamdale David Barrett Mon 5 Mar (4nts) MDEMN £449

Conistonwater David Barrett Fri 6 Apr (7nts) CNEMN £745

Glen Coe David Barrett Sat 20 Oct (7nts) LLEMN £745

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Guernsey Derek Forss Sat 12 May (7nts) GYEPT £889 £819

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Further details about all our holidays, including our leaders and itineraries, are available on our website: www.hfholidays.co.uk/photography

Prices include: • En-suite accommodation • Holidays in the UK are Full Board with all meals included (Half Board on Guernsey)• Holidays in San Quirico are Half Board• Holidays in Paris and Venice are Bed & Breakfast• A full programme of gentle walks, tours and tuition with a knowledgeable leader• All transport on photography days is included

Information• Twin/double premium rooms: £5 per person per night• Single rooms: £8 per night (£5 per night if booked before 31 December 2011)• Single rooms per night: Guernsey £25; San Quirico £9; Venice £31; Paris £38• Value rooms in the UK discounted by up to £8 per night, where available • Non member associate fee: £5 per person

Your holiday in a nutshell• Most of our holidays are suited to all abilities, from complete beginners to experienced photographers• All our holidays contain some element of tuition• Bring your own camera, either film or digital. We can help you produce good results even with a simple compact camera• We’ll spend most of the day outdoors, either exploring by mini-coach or on foot, seeking out the best images• The evenings offer opportunities for further tuition, or the chance to review the day’s photographs• On 7 night holidays we include one free day when you can explore independently

European photography holidaysLandscape Photography: The walled town of San Quirico d’Orcia and the surrounding Tuscan countryside provide an excellent location for this holiday.

Cityscapes: A chance to explore the photographic opportunities in the architecture, people and everyday scenes of city life on the continent. An active holiday with lots of time spent

on your feet.

Wildlife Photography Ideal short breaks for those who are passionate about wildlife and photography. With an experienced leader you will capture the best wildlife images.

From Alnmouth visit Inner Farne Nature Reserve and Staple Island where we will get the opportunity to photograph the thousands of seabirds that nest here, including puffin, guillemot, razorbill and kittiwake, as well as one of Europe’s largest seal colonies.

At Freshwater Bay we will mainly be using close-up and macro photography to capture the myriad of flowers and insects that can be seen at this time of year.

At Malhamdale we will spend time with a falconer and his birds of prey, starting with practicing portrait shots and progressing to capturing movement in the wild.



San Quirico Kel Portman Sun 7 Oct (7nts) SNEPT £979 £829


Alnmouth Steve Bullen Wed 20 June (3nts) ALEWP £349

Freshwater Bay Steve Bullen Tues 17 July (4nts) FWEWP £415

Malhamdale Steve Bullen Wed 15 Aug (3nts) MDEWP £349



Venice David Barrett Mon 30 Apr (4nts) VEECP £699 £529

Paris Alan Cowderoy Mon 24 Sept (4nts) PAECP £579 £449

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Art & Crafts• Holidays suited to all types of interest and ability• Professional and talented tutors to teach and encourage• Inspirational and picturesque locations

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Introduction to WatercolourIf you always wanted to learn to paint but lacked the confidence or did not know where to begin, then look no further. With expert tuition in a relaxed and friendly environment, you’ll learn the basic techniques, including colour mixing, basic washes, complementary colours and composition. An ideal base for our Landscape Painting holidays.

Landscape PaintingMajestic vistas, lochs, fishing villages, harbours, secluded cottages, soaring crags, forests and rolling countryside are your inspiration on our Landscape Painting holidays. In the company of an accomplished artist we’ll explore the local area and discover the finest sites to paint. Our Landscape Painting holidays are designed to cater for any level of experience with various techniques and topics being introduced.

Guernsey – make the most of the stunning scenery this island has to offer.

On our Seascapes holidays you’ll learn to capture still water reflections, brooding landscapes, fishing boats, coastal paths and vast skies. We’ll show you how to match the depth and colour of water scenes, capturing the light and perspective of subjects and background.


Malhamdale Easa Ali Sat 19 May (4nts) MDPBA £389

Bourton-on-the-Water David Norris Wed 5 Sept (3nts) BNPBA £299

Introduction to DrawingThis holiday is designed for beginners or those who would like to improve their drawing skills in a relaxed indoor environment. Learning to draw is easier than you think. Under the expert tuition of our leader we’ll start off with the basics covering topics such as line, shape, form and texture, progressing as your confidence grows. An ideal first step if you would like to tackle any of our painting holidays.


Abingworth Jean Lee Fri 23 Mar (3nts) AWPDB £299

Dovedale Peter Slater Fri 2 Nov (3nts) DVPDB £299

European painting holidaysOur European painting destinations are hand-picked to give

you the best locations to paint, from the classic Tuscan countryside of San Quirico, to the natural beauty of the Lycian Coast at Ölü Deniz.



Landscape Painting San Quirico

Dee Cowell

Sun 7 Oct (7nts)

SNPLA £999 £849

Landscape Painting – Seascapes

Ölü Deniz Dave Jeffery

Mon 21 May (7nts)

LYPSS £949 £719

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Prices include: • En-suite accommodation• Holidays in the UK are Full Board with all meals included (Half Board on Guernsey)• Holidays in San Quirico and Ölü Deniz are Half Board• All tuition with a knowledgeable leader• On relevant holidays, transport to and from the different sites is included

Information• Twin/double premium rooms: £5 per person per night• Single rooms: £8 per night (£5 per night if booked before 31 December 2011)• Single rooms per night: Guernsey £25, San Quirico £9 and Ölü Deniz £14• Value rooms in the UK discounted by up to £8 per night, where available• Non member associate fee: £5 per person

Landscape Painting in Water-mixable Oils

If you have ever wanted to paint in oils but have not been able to face the solvents and fumes, then this is the holiday for you. The new water-mixable oils that are now on the market are virtually odourless and can be thinned with water. Cleaning up is easy with just a little soap and water. Our tutor will introduce you to the paints, and to painting in oils, as well as taking you to some of the best locations to capture the landscape surrounding our Country Houses.


Freshwater Bay Murray Ince Mon 30 Apr (5nts) FWPOM £539

Bourton-on-the-Water Murray Ince Sat 25 Aug (4nts) BNPOM £439

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Painting with PastelsSoft pastel is one of the oldest of all painting media, and became a popular art medium in the 18th century. Soft pastel has a higher portion of pigment and less binder which results in brighter, more vibrant colours. Suitable for both beginners and those with more experience. We will work both inside and out, exploring technique and using the local scenery as inspiration.


Malhamdale Susie Turner Sat 26 May (6nts) MDPPO £625

Bourton-on-the-Water Susie Turner Wed 29 Aug (3nts) BNPPO £359


Landscape Painting

Selworthy Peter Slater Sat 5 May (4nts) SLPLA £439

St Ives Helen Halliday Sat 2 June (7nts) SVPLA £715

Derwentwater Easa Ali Sat 16 June (4nts) DBPLA £439

Alnmouth Yvonne Darby Sat 30 June (4nts) ALPLA £439

Glen Coe Annie Rice Sat 14 July (7nts) LLPLA £715

Dolgellau Annie Rice Sun 19 Aug (5nts) DGPLA £539

Landscape Painting – Seascapes

Freshwater Bay Murray Ince Sat 19 May (7nts) FWPSS £715

Whitby Dave Jeffery Sat 4 Aug (7nts) WYPSS £715

St Ives Dee Cowell Sat 25 Aug (7nts) SVPSS £715



Guernsey Hilary Ganly Sat 23 June (7nts) GYPLA £779 £719

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ftsYour holiday in a nutshell• Most holidays are suited to all abilities, from complete beginners to experienced artists

• For our outdoor based holidays we’ll aim to work outside wherever possible, but have the option of working indoors if the weather is poor

• On outdoor holidays we’ll spend either one or two days painting or drawing in the area around the Country House. On other days we’ll travel further afield by mini-coach

• When outdoors you’ll need to walk short distances between the coach and the painting sites, carrying your own equipment

• A suggested list of art materials will be sent to you before your holiday, and is available on our website

• For Landscape Painting you’ll need to bring an easel and lightweight folding chair

• If your chosen medium is oil, please advise us so that we can suggest the most suitable holidays

• On 7 night holidays we include one free day when you can explore or paint independently

Rambles with a SketchbookDiscover artistic inspiration as we walk through some of Britain’s most inspirational landscapes. We’ll walk for 3 to 4 miles each day, sketching scenes along the route. Your sketches may be the finished result or used as a source for later painting.

Prices include: • Full Board en-suite accommodation with all meals included• All tuition with a knowledgeable leader• On relevant holidays, transport to and from the different sites is included

Information• Twin/double premium rooms: £5 per person per night• Single rooms: £8 per night (£5 per night if booked before 31 December 2011)• Value rooms discounted by up to £8 per night, where available• Non member associate fee: £5 per person


Dolgellau David Norris Mon 23 Apr (4nts) DGPDW £439

Conistonwater Irene Sanderson Sat 30 June (4nts) CNPDW £439

Whitby Irene Sanderson Sat 18 Aug (7nts) WYPDW £715

Pen & Ink Drawing Using pen and ink you can access an amazing variety of styles and

techniques, from abstract patterns through to detailed drawings. Your expert tutor will guide you step by step to help you build your skills.

Introduction to Jewellery Making Using a step-by-step process your expert tutor will instruct you in

basic metalworking and design techniques to create a bangle, ring and pendant. Inspiration will be drawn from the surrounding countryside and visits to local craftspeople. All equipment and materials are included in the cost of your holiday.


Haytor Yvonne Darby Fri 13 Apr (3nts) HYPCI £299

Abingworth Jean Lee Fri 26 Oct (3nts) AWPCI £299


Malhamdale Ruth Facey Mon 26 Mar (4nts) MDPJM £439

Haytor Ruth Facey Sat 22 Sept (4nts) HYPJM £439

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Sketching the Natural World A combination of two holiday types, art and the natural world; this

holiday is ideal for any artist with an interest in wildlife. The mornings will be spent on a walk, accompanied by one of our Natural World leaders, exploring the wildlife in the local area. Time will be given for sketches, which you can then use as inspiration for the afternoon, when tutored drawing sessions will take place at the house.

Introduction to Collage & Mixed MediaCollage, which derives its name from the French word coller meaning glue, is a method of making images with a mixture of different textures. Paper, fabric, tissue and items from nature can be used along with paint and ink to create exciting pieces of work. The idea of combining different media within one picture is not only stimulating; it offers the prospect of making new discoveries. Suitable for anyone who wants to discover a new way of expression.


Malhamdale Hilary Ganly Wed 23 May (3nts) MDPCO £299

Bourton-on-the-Water Catherine Sargeant Fri 9 Nov (3nts) BNPCO £299

ScrapbookingScrapbooking is a way of presenting and preserving personal and family history, including photographs and memorabilia, in albums and scrapbooks. Scrapbooks become treasured heirlooms that can be handed down and enjoyed for generations to come. The holidays will cover the basic techniques for creating a page and provide you with inspiration for further projects. All equipment and materials are included in the cost of your holiday.


Dovedale Pauline Wright Fri 23 Mar (3nts) DVPSB £299

Brecon Pauline Wright Wed 3 Oct (3nts) BRPSB £299


Alnmouth Clio Graham & Steve Bullen

Sat 16 June (4nts) ALPNW £439

Introduction to PortraitsIf you just don’t know where to start, or lack the confidence to draw

and paint portraits, this is the holiday for you. Our expert tutor will guide you through every stage, initially working from photographs and pictures, increasing your confidence throughout the holiday.


Abingworth Catherine Sargeant Fri 2 Mar (3nts) AWPSP £299

Dovedale Catherine Sargeant Mon 15 Oct (4nts) DVPSP £389

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Chinese Brush PaintingChinese Brush Painting is an ancient art form dating back to about 4,000 BC. Typical motifs include flowers, birds, beautiful landscapes and figures in action. There will be an introduction to the tools and materials as well as showing you the techniques used in this ancient art form. Chinese Brush Painting is enjoyed by many as a form of meditation due to the concentration needed in the preparation of the paint and the brush strokes used.


Malhamdale Kaili Fu Fri 30 Mar (3nts) MDPCW £299More holidays, more choiceYou can combine any of our leisure activity, Guided Walking or Freedom Break holidays to form a longer stay. You could even enjoy a two-centre holiday and stay at two of our splendid Country Houses.Visit www.hfholidays.co.uk or call our Reservations team on 0845 470 7558 for further information.

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treTheatre• Enjoy performances at some of Britain’s best regional theatres• Discussions and backstage tours will enhance your appreciation• Time to explore the local area independently or join our optional walks

A Shakespeare TaleImmerse yourself in the life and works of England’s finest playwright. We’ll explore Stratford-upon-Avon and take in two of his plays, one at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, and another at one of the area’s excellent regional theatres.


Bourton-on-the-Water Alycia Smith-Howard Wed 20 June (3nts)BNATS

£399

Bourton-on-the-Water Liz Oakley Wed 5 Sept (3nts) £399

Theatre in the PeaksBuxton’s splendid Opera House and Arts Centre offers a range of plays throughout the year, and we can also travel to theatres in Derby, Nottingham or Stoke-on-Trent. Tickets to two performances are included.


Dovedale Wendy Devlin Tues 2 Oct (3nts) DVATB £399

Around the GlobeVisit the famous Globe theatre in London for a performance of a Shakespeare play in its authentic setting; an experience not to be missed. We also include one other play at Chichester, Worthing or Brighton, or another regional theatre. On our 4 night holiday we’ll visit a third performance.


Abingworth Frances Carroll Wed 1 Aug (3nts)AWATH

£399

Abingworth Alycia Smith-Howard Mon 15 Oct (4nts) £499

Prices include: • Full Board en-suite accommodation with all meals included • Theatre tickets and transport to and from the Country House • Optional walks with leader where listed

Information• Premium rooms: £5 per person per night • Single rooms: £8 per night (£5 per night if booked before 31 December 2011) • Non member associate fee: £5 per person

Theatre by the LakeWith a magnificent backdrop of Derwent Water and its surrounding mountains, Keswick’s Theatre by the Lake is surely Britain’s most scenic and evocative. Enjoy two varied performances on our 3 and 4 night holidays, either in the main house or the smaller studio theatre. Optional walks will be available on two days.


Derwentwater Frances Carroll Sat 7 July (4nts)

DBATL

£399

Derwentwater Frances Carroll Wed 11 July (3nts) £359

Derwentwater Frances Carroll Sat 1 Sept (4nts) £399

Derwentwater Frances Carroll Wed 5 Sept (3nts) £359

Theatre in the CotswoldsBourton-on-the-Water is a convenient base from which to reach theatres in locations such as Stratford, Cheltenham, Oxford and Worcester. Enjoy two contrasting plays, including one at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. On our 4 night holiday we’ll visit a third performance. Optional half-day walks will be available on two days.


Bourton-on-the-Water Frances Carroll Wed 16 May (3nts)BNATC

£399

Bourton-on-the-Water Liz Oakley Mon 22 Oct (4nts) £499

Your holiday in a nutshell• We book blocks of good quality seats for all performances – the number of performances is included in each description

• Transport to and from the theatres is included

• A knowledgeable leader accompanies each holiday

• Pre-theatre talks and, where possible, backstage tours, will enhance your appreciation of the performances

• All our theatre holidays include free time for you to explore the local area. Our Country Houses have maps and guidebooks available if you would like to walk independently

• Alternatively join our optional half-day walks where listed

Festivals• Experience the best events at each festival• A knowledgeable leader to enhance your festival experience• Free time, guided walks or extra performances available

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Your holiday in a nutshell• We book blocks of good quality seats for all performances – the number of tickets included is shown in each holiday description

• The choice of performances will be made as soon as the festivals release their 2012 schedules. Full detailed programmes will be available on our website

• If you would like to purchase tickets to additional performances we’ll provide booking details on our website

• Transport to and from the festivals is included

• A knowledgeable leader accompanies each holiday

• On most holidays pre-event talks will enhance your appreciation of the performances

• Optional guided walks where listed

Alnwick International Music FestivalEvery year in August Alnwick is filled with the sights and sounds of the

International Music Festival: passionate folk dancing, music, and colourful costumes in the historic surroundings of Alnwick. Join our leaders for two days at the festival, optional dance sessions at our Country House, and entrance to the International Concert on one evening.

Whitby Folk Week This celebration of traditional music, dance and song fills the Yorkshire fishing port. There are over 600 events including workshops, concerts, singarounds, dances, street entertainment, and spontaneous fringe activities. We include full season tickets covering all events, leaving you free to select your own events and soak up the festival atmosphere. This holiday is offered on Bed & Breakfast basis, with picnic lunch, allowing more flexibility.

Hay-on-Wye Literature Festival This is one of the most renowned literary festivals on the calendar, taking place in this stunning location on the edge of the Brecon Beacons. The Hay Festival promises to bring together ‘writers, comedians and musicians that have the capacity to change our lives, to share new visions of the world, and more importantly to renew our sense of wonder’. We’ll include tickets to three festival events, leaving you free to attend others which appeal.

Cheltenham Literature Festival The Cheltenham Literature Festival is arguably one of the oldest and best loved literature festivals in the world. This is a coming together of award-winning writers and world-renowned thinkers; a celebration of the joy of books and the thrill of debate. We include tickets to three events, leaving you free to attend others at your leisure.

Cheltenham Music Festival Long summer evenings, beautiful music, top class musicians and

sublime settings; the Cheltenham Music Festival is a treat for the senses. Join our expert leader for a week at the world’s longest established, most admired festival of its kind. We will include tickets to four events during the week.


Alnmouth Phil & Brenda Steventon Wed 1 Aug (3nts) ALAFI £329


Whitby Robin Andrews Sat 18 Aug (7nts) WYAFY £639


Brecon Liz Oakley Sat 2 June (4nts) BRALH £459


Bourton-on-the-Water Alycia Smith-Howard Mon 8 Oct (4nts) BNALC £459

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Opera North Award-winning Opera North prides itself on a fresh approach to opera

and musical performance. Come to the stunning Yorkshire Dales for this operatic short break where we include pre-performance talks and tickets to two performances at the Grand Theatre, Leeds.


Malhamdale Steven Robinson Wed 24 Oct (3nts) MDAFN £389

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Prices include: • Full Board en-suite accommodation with all meals included (except Whitby Folk Week)• Festival tickets and transport to and from the festival venues


Keswick Jazz FestivalStart the week with the pre-festival: four days of special jazz events at the wonderful Theatre by the Lake. During this early part of the week we’ll enjoy Paul Jones & Digby Fairweather’s Half Dozen and Langham, Litton & Sked. This is followed by the main festival: three days of music from noon until midnight in a host of Keswick venues. The music is a lively mix of early 20th century traditional roots jazz and 1930s and 40s swing. Our expert leader starts each day with an entertaining music talk. The 3 night break includes two concerts, while the 4 night break includes three full day festival stroller tickets. Alternatively book the 7 night holiday for an action-packed week.

Welsh National Opera This world famous touring company’s performances are an ever-popular attraction. In 2012 we feature two performances at the Bristol Hippodrome, La Traviata and The Marriage of Figaro. Additionally we include pre-performance talks and optional guided walks on two mornings.

Buxton Opera Festival Lovingly restored to its former glory at the turn of the Millennium, the Buxton Opera House is a beautiful Edwardian theatre set in the heart of the Peak District. It is also home to the prestigious Buxton Opera Festival. We’ll select three outstanding evening performances from the renowned festival programme and our leader will be on hand to explain their background and context. Mornings are free to join the optional guided walks or explore the area independently.

Buxton Gilbert & Sullivan Festival Anyone who loves Gilbert and Sullivan will enjoy this amazing festival. We include tickets to four of the best productions in the beautiful Opera House. Our expert leader will put them into context in the morning, leaving you free in the afternoon to see extra events (not included in price) or explore the Peak District countryside independently.

Three Choirs Festival No other music festival in the United Kingdom has the history and tradition to match that of the Three Choirs, nor concert venues as beautiful as the three medieval cathedrals. 2012 will see the 285th meeting of the choirs of Gloucester, Hereford and Worcester, this year’s venue being Hereford. A very English festival, the core programme of music features work from English composers. We include tickets to three concerts plus pre-concert talks by your expert leader.


Derwentwater Chris Howes Sun 29 Apr (3nts)

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£329

Derwentwater Chris Howes Sun 29 Apr (7nts) £729

Derwentwater Chris Howes Wed 2 May (4nts) £459


Bourton-on-the-Water Judith Wallace Mon 9 Apr (4nts) BNAFW £519


Dovedale Judith Wallace Sat 7 July (7nts) DVAFB £759


Dovedale Joan Dean Sat 4 Aug (7nts) DVAFD £729


Brecon Steven Robinson Sat 21 July (4nts) BRAFF £489

Extend your stayWhy not extend your stay and enjoy a longer holiday? You can add a few days’ relaxation or leisurely sightseeing by booking a Freedom Break.See page 51 or ask our Reservations team on 0845 470 7558 when you book your holiday.Location Leader Date Code Price

Bourton-on-the-Water Tim Knight Sat 30 June (7nts) BNAFC £729

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Cooking& Culture• Holidays for food lovers• Holidays for culture lovers• Holidays for those looking to learn something new

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reCooking & Walking The Bianconi family set up their hotel, La Grotta Azzurra, in 1860. With a fine reputation for culinary excellence, this is your chance to learn some of their culinary secrets and traditions. You’ll enjoy four cooking sessions, covering antipasti, pasta, main dishes and desserts. There will also be an opportunity to taste the area’s delightful wines and to join the locals for an afternoon of truffle hunting. Two guided walks in the surrounding area make this a perfect break for those who want a real insight into rural Umbrian life.

Tours for Food LoversEver been to your local Farmer’s Market and wondered what

happens on the farm or how the food gets from the farm onto your plate? For these tours small, local food producers will open their doors to us, tell us about life on the farm or in the production room and, if we’re lucky, allow us to sample their products. All this combined with short gentle walks for you to get to know the local area.

A Taste of the Cotswolds: Sample the best that this region has to offer including beer at a local brewery, organic cheese at a local dairy and fruit juice and cider pressed on the farm.

A Taste of the Lakes: Highlights will include a visit to Grasmere with a chance to sample the unique Grasmere gingerbread, bread making using flour produced in a watermill and the opportunity to taste the local relish and see how it is produced.

Location Date Code Price


Norcia Sat 5 May (7nts)NCLGC

£899 £699

Norcia Sat 6 Oct (7nts) £899 £699


Bourton-on-the-Water Sat 2 June (4nts)BNLFT

£449

Bourton-on-the-Water Sat 1 Sept (4nts) £449


Derwentwater Sun 29 Apr (4nts)DBLFT

£449

Derwentwater Sat 15 Sept (4nts) £449

Prices include: Language Holidays: • Half Board en-suite accommodation • 20 hours of language tuition • Assistance from your HF Holidays’ leaderCooking & Walking: • Half Board en-suite accommodation • Four cooking sessions• Wine tasting• Truffle hunting • Guided walks on two days • Walks transport to be paid locally (allow €26 per person)Tours for Food Lovers: • Full Board accommodation • A full programme of visits including entrance fees where applicable• Assistance from your HF Holidays’ leader

Information• Twin/double premium rooms: £5 per person per night • Single rooms: £8 per night (£5 per night if booked before 31 December 2011) • Single rooms per night: Sarlat £31; Sorrento £22; Puerto de la Cruz £14.50 • Value rooms in the UK discounted by up to £8 per night, where available• Non member associate fee: £5 per person

Language HolidaysSpend a week in the country of your choice, either learning from

scratch on our beginners courses, or brushing up on what you already know on our intermediate level holidays. Five mornings of language tuition will be complemented with optional half-day walks or visits to local places of interest. Alternatively spend your free time relaxing by the pool.

Puerto de la Cruz: Learn or brush up your Spanish on the beautiful island of Tenerife. Five mornings of language tuition will be complemented with an optional Spanish dance class or the opportunity to explore the volcanic landscape and Mount Teide.

Sarlat: Learn or brush up your French in the stunning setting of the Dordogne countryside. Five mornings of language tuition will be complemented with optional easy walks of up to 6½ miles or visits to local places of interest, for example Puymartin Château, the fortified town of Domme or the historic town of Rocamadour.

Sorrento: Learn or brush up your Italian at the same time as enjoying the coastal scenery on the Sorrento peninsula. Optional afternoon activities can include a visit to Pompeii or a Limoncello factory.



Beginners Sat 24 Mar (7nts) TESLB £759 £649

Intermediates Sat 24 Mar (7nts) TESLI £759 £649



Beginners Sat 5 May (7nts) SRFLB £999 £819

Intermediates Sat 12 May (7nts) SRFLI £999 £819



Beginners Sat 13 Oct (7nts) STILB £949 £789

Intermediates Sat 20 Oct (7nts) STILI £949 £789

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Mind & Body• Wellness breaks designed to rejuvenate mind and body• Beautiful locations superbly suited for relaxation and inspiration• Knowledgeable instructors dedicated to your wellbeing

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Alexander Technique The Alexander Technique teaches balance, support and co-ordination, making you more aware of posture and movement in everyday activities. Learn how to move, sit, lie or stand with the minimum of strain on your body, helping you increase your vitality and flexibility. On our Alexander Technique & Walking holidays you will have the opportunity to put some of these new techniques into practice on our half-day guided afternoon walks.

Tai Chi Tai Chi is an ancient form of traditional Chinese exercise for health and wellbeing combining slow, flowing movement with controlled breathing. The peaceful movement encourages quietness and allows you to become more aware of yourself and your surroundings. Restore energy and vitality, while developing a sense of balance and equilibrium. On our Tai Chi & Walking holidays enjoy guided walks in the afternoons.


Alexander Technique

Whitby Shella Parry Mon 26 Mar (4nts) WYKAT £395

Brecon Shella Parry Wed 3 Oct (3nts) BRKAT £325

Alexander Technique & Walking

Conistonwater John Edwards Sat 12 May (4nts) CNKAW £449

Abingworth John Edwards Sat 7 July (4nts) AWKAW £449


Tai Chi

Malhamdale Linda Southwick Fri 17 Feb (3nts) MDKTC £325

Bourton-on-the-Water Sheila Aimson Wed 6 June (3nts) BNKTC £325

Derwentwater Sheila Aimson Mon 12 Nov (4nts) DBKTC £395

Tai Chi & Walking

Abingworth Sheila Aimson Mon 30 Apr (4nts) AWKTW £449

Selworthy Sheila Aimson Sat 30 June (4nts) SLKTW £449

Dolgellau Linda Southwick Sun 5 Aug (7nts) DGKTW £799

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Pilates Pilates focuses on your core postural muscles that are responsible for keeping the body balanced and the spine supported. Pilates is a gentle non-aerobic exercise that strengthens the muscles and improves poor posture, which can often be the cause of many back and shoulder pains. On our Pilates & Walking holidays our guided walks in the afternoons are the perfect complement.

Yoga Yoga is the union of the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of our lives. Through practise of postures, breathing exercises, relaxation and meditation you will become aware of the tremendous benefits that yoga can bring. Learn how to make your body more supple and your mind calmer and more focused. Combine yoga sessions with walking on our Yoga & Walking holidays.

Yoga & Circle Dance Yoga sessions in the mornings and late afternoons are complemented by afternoon and evening circle dancing sessions. You’ll learn traditional village dances from around the world, with the emphasis on fun and enjoyment.

Meditation Meditation is a holistic discipline that has been practised for thousands of years. Combining relaxation and breathing it can make you more focused, positive and peaceful in your emotions and more fulfilled in your spirit. Meditation is deeply personal and your instructor will tailor the sessions to all group members, as far as possible.

Revitalise Spoilt for choice? This break incorporates yoga to improve posture and breathing, pilates to improve strength, and meditation to reduce stress. You’ll feel more refreshed, relaxed and energised.


Pilates

Abingworth Susie Gale Mon 5 Mar (4nts) AWKHP £395

Dovedale Angela Walker Wed 12 Sept (3nts) DVKHP £325

Pilates & Walking

Alnmouth Angela Walker Sat 12 May (7nts) ALKHW £799


Yoga

Bourton-on-the-Water Joan Stonehouse Sun 11 Mar (5nts) BNKYO £479

Whitby Mike Cragg Mon 29 Oct (4nts) WYKYO £395

Yoga & Walking

Bourton-on-the-Water Julia Wheatley Fri 2 Mar (6nts) BNKYW £635

Freshwater Bay Mike Cragg Sat 26 May (7nts) FWKYW £799

Derwentwater Linda Southwick Sat 9 June (4nts) DBKYW £425

Dolgellau Gill Hunter Sat 21 July (6nts) DGKYW £635

Malhamdale Gill Hunter Sat 11 Aug (4nts) MDKYW £449

St Ives Julia Wheatley Sat 6 Oct (7nts) SVKYW £799


Brecon Anne-Lise Kryger & Gill Hunter

Sat 18 Aug (4nts) BRKYC £449

Malhamdale Fri 7 Dec (3nts) MDKYC £325


Malhamdale Angela Walker Tues 27 Dec 2011 (3nts) MDKGX £329

Derwentwater Angela Walker Wed 27 June (3nts) DBKGF £325

Malhamdale Mike Cragg Wed 17 Oct (3nts) MDKGF £325


Malhamdale Jo Kirke Fri 23 Nov (3nts) MDKMD £325

Prices include: • En-suite accommodation • Holidays in the UK are Full Board with all meals included• Holidays in Lindos and Costa Teguise are Half Board • A full programme of tuition from our knowledgeable leaders, plus, where applicable, an expert walking guide and transport for walks

Information• Premium rooms: £5 per person per night • Single rooms: £8 per night (£5 per night if booked before 31 December 2011) • Single rooms per night: Lindos £20 and Costa Teguise £17 • Value rooms in the UK discounted by up to £8 per night, where available • Non member associate fee: £5 per person

Your holiday in a nutshell• Most holidays are suited to all abilities, from complete beginners to those with more experience

• None of these exercises require any specialist equipment; however, please bring your own exercise mat

• Mind & Body sessions usually take place in the mornings and late afternoons with some sessions in the evenings. Use the afternoons to explore the local area independently, or just relax at the Country House

• Some holidays include optional guided walks. These are up to 6 miles with any transport to and from the Country House included in the price

European holidaysRejuvenate mind and body in the picturesque and tranquil surroundings of one of our European hotels. Expert tuition in the morning is followed by free time in the afternoon to explore the local area or relax by the pool.



Pilates Lindos Susie Gale Wed 2 May (7nts) RDKHP £799 £629

Yoga Costa Teguise Linda Southwick Sat 8 Sept (7nts) LZKYO £749 £589

Tai Chi Costa Teguise Linda Southwick Sat 15 Sept (7nts) LZKTC £749 £589

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Introduction to Music Appreciation Learn how to more fully appreciate concerts and recitals, opera and ballet, either live or at home. Without going into anything too technical, our leader will guide you through the terminology and examples from popular classical works played on CD. We’ll look at music from the Medieval era through to modern day via the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical and Romantic eras.

Music of Smetana Few composers have lived as full and interesting a life as Smetana.

Our weekend will explore the relationship between his life and work, with visual and recorded illustrations. We will include the opera The Bartered Bride, the symphonic poems Ma Vlast, his chamber music and other masterworks.


Dovedale Marcus Martin Sat 19 May (4nts) DVAMD £419


Abingworth Terry Barfoot Fri 2 Mar (3nts) AWANF £369

Music of Handel Handel wrote in all of the usual genres of the Baroque period: opera, oratorio, cantatas, anthems, concertos and keyboard music. During this holiday we’ll survey his life and works, tracing the development of his musical style through some of his most famous compositions: Rodelinda, Messiah, Water Music, Zadok the Priest and the Op 6 concertos.


Dovedale Steven Robinson Sat 29 Sept (3nts) DVANH £369

Music Appreciation• Listen to superb pieces of music in comfortable surroundings• Learn about the lives and works of brilliant composers• Small groups with an expert leader to enhance your appreciation and enjoyment

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20th Century Music For many people the very words ‘20th century music’ are enough

to put them off going to a concert. But this period of musical history is far more varied than first meets the eye: much of it is very tuneful and inspired by traditional folk music. During the holiday we’ll listen to representative works from a diverse range of composers: Debussy, Satie, Stravinsky, Berg, Bartok, Prokofiev, Villa-Lobos, Boulez, Reich and others. A real opportunity to broaden your horizons!


Conistonwater Steven Robinson Sat 22 Sept (4nts) CNANE £419

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Music of Shostakovich & the Communist Regime Shostakovich is one of the giants of 20th century music with a series of symphonies, string quartets, operas and film scores to his name. Although his music is now universally celebrated, in his day some of his compositions were deemed too progressive for the communist regime. Shostakovich’s response was to write in a more conservative style, but one that often carried a coded criticism of the political regime.

Your holiday in a nutshell• Music appreciation sessions normally take place in the mornings, late afternoons and after dinner

• Music will be played on good quality hi-fi equipment

• Afternoons are free for you to explore the local area, except where listed. All our Country Houses have maps and guidebooks available if you would like to walk independently

• These holidays are suitable for anyone with an interest in learning more about their chosen music genre or composer. No technical knowledge required

Music of Tchaikovsky Tchaikovsky wrote some of the most popular music in the current classical repertoire, including the ballets Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker, as well as the 1812 Overture, his First Piano Concerto, his last three numbered symphonies, and the opera Eugene Onegin. However, his personal life was deeply troubled by depression, questions surrounding his sexuality and his powerful belief in fate. We’ll explore Tchaikovsky’s great volume of work and investigate how these issues affected his music.


Abingworth Steven Robinson Mon 19 Mar (4nts) AWANT £419

Romantic Music The Romantic period in music spans most of the 19th century (1828-

1900) and includes a whole range of composers: Schubert, Schumann, Mendelssohn, Chopin, Liszt, Brahms, Berlioz, Tchaikovsky, Dvorak, Verdi and Wagner to name but a few. But what exactly makes their music Romantic as opposed to Classical? During this holiday we’ll have an opportunity to explore this question, and to discover what inspired much of the romantic repertoire, through listening to a range of different works: songs, opera, piano music, overtures and symphonies.

Elgar & the Malvern Hills Elgar was born in 1857 at Broadheath, close to Worcester – his

father had a music shop and he tuned pianos. His life and music are linked to the area and he not only grew up here, but died here as well. We’ll visit places associated with him, listen to his music and take time to appreciate and understand the countryside which greatly inspired him.

Music of Franz Schubert Despite his short life of only 31 years, Schubert has left us with an

amazing number and variety of works: the Trout Quintet, the Great C major Symphony, over 600 songs (including Winterreise and Die schöne Müllerin) and a wealth of music for piano and other small ensembles. Hailed as the undisputed master of songs, he was overshadowed by Beethoven, and left many works incomplete for fear of unfavourable comparison. Find out more about the life and works of this gifted young composer and listen to some newly-recorded ‘unfinished’ works as well as much-loved favourites.

Music of Mozart & Haydn The two greatest composers in the second half of the 18th century

met in Vienna in the 1780s. They became great friends and admired each other’s music enormously. Despite Haydn being twice the age of Mozart, both composers learnt from each other and there are many instances of similar ideas being used in their works. This holiday will explore a wonderfully rich period of music and will draw on the composers’ letters and those of their contemporaries.


Derwentwater Steven Robinson Wed 19 Sept (3nts) DBAMJ £369


Bourton-on-the-Water Marcus Martin Sat 16 June (4nts) BNAME £449


Malhamdale Steven Robinson Sat 19 May (4nts) MDANJ £419

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Abingworth David Ward Mon 12 Nov (4nts) AWANM £419

The English Symphony Elgar did not complete his First Symphony (1908) until he was past 50, but its huge success encouraged the establishment and growth of one of the most important developments in 20th century music: the English symphony. We’ll explore this rich and varied legacy of masterworks, including the First Symphony of Elgar, and the works of Vaughan Williams, Walton, Bax, Rubbra, Arnold and Britten.


Selworthy Terry Barfoot Fri 19 Oct (3nts) SLAMU £369

Prices include: • Full Board en-suite accommodation with all meals included • A full programme of music appreciation with an experienced leader • Transport to visits where listed

Information• Twin/double premium rooms: £5 per person per night • Single rooms: £8 per night (£5 per night if booked before 31 December 2011) • Value rooms discounted by up to £8 per night, where available • Non member associate fee: £5 per person

From Operetta to Hollywood A study in song. We trace the dawning of western 20th century

theatre song in the verve and satire of the operettas of Offenbach, Gilbert & Sullivan and Johann Strauss. We uncover lost gems of Edwardian musical theatre and feel the full flowering of ‘Jazz Age’ stage and Hollywood music of Jerome Kern, Dorothy Fields, Hoagy Carmichael and more. We will examine song structure, melodic delights and social references.

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Freshwater Bay Chris Howes Mon 2 Apr (4nts) FWANO £419

Northern Sounds & Ripon Festival This holiday provides the opportunity to look and listen to aspects of music associated with the north of England arising in particular through the 19th century industrial heritage. The holiday features a concert in the Ripon Festival as well as the opportunity to visit places of local relevant interest. In the company of our expert leader we’ll visit Fountains Abbey, Leeds, Harewood House as well as Ripon. There will also be some time during this holiday for some illustrated talks.


Malhamdale Tim Knight Sat 15 Sept (4nts) MDAMY £459

The Jazz Legacy Immerse yourself in the fun, spirit and mystique of Jazz, from its slave trade and ragtime roots to the present day. Hear again the virtuosity of trailblazing instrumentalists and singers such as Jelly Roll Morton, Louis Armstrong, Django Reinhardt, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, and Miles Davis. We’ll also discover the music’s influence on classical and theatre composers such as Copland, Gershwin, Bernstein and Ravel.


Malhamdale Chris Howes Mon 5 Nov (4nts) MDAML £419

NEW Beauty of Woodwind Instruments Join this holiday and discover a little of the history of these beautiful

instruments and listen to classical music which has been written for them throughout the ages. We will also explore how they have been used more recently in musicals, and film and TV music.


Alnmouth Pamela Craig Wed 19 Sept (3nts) ALANW £369


Abingworth Steven Robinson Fri 23 Mar (3nts) AWANS £369

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Music Making• Joinwithothersandenjoyplayingmusicasagroup• Expertleadersareonhandtoguideyouthroughnew musicandstyles• Emphasisonfunandenjoymentforall

Orchestra & Choir Meet other musicians and have fun making music with our scratch orchestra. We’ll perform a variety of music, specially selected by our team of music tutors. This might include a Beethoven or a Mendelssohn symphony, complemented by some lighter pieces. You’ll need to be of grade IV standard and have some experience of playing as a group. String players should have fluency in position changing and clarinettists will need both A and B flat instruments. We add a choir for an even richer sound. This superb musical experience is suited to all singers with some sight-reading ability. These holidays also have optional guided afternoon walks of up to 5 miles.

Concert Band Woodwind, brass and percussion players will love the impressive sound of our concert band. We’ll play as a full group and in smaller ensembles, tackling a full repertoire of concert band music. In the afternoons you may enjoy the optional guided walks, or informally arranged ensembles.

Clarinet Choir Our Clarinet Choir is a great opportunity to play together, either as a quartet or a larger group. We’ll play a variety of styles with the accent in fun and enjoyment. This holiday is suited to B flat, E flat or bass clarinettists of grade IV standard.

Light Music Orchestra Explore music from the great days of the BBC Light Programme and countless seaside orchestras. We’ll tackle work by Eric Coates, Haydn Wood, Robert Farnon, and others, alongside a few selections from popular shows of the period. Suited to any string, woodwind, brass or percussion player with some sight reading ability.


Haytor David Burton Sat 21 July (7nts) HYMMO £729

Malhamdale Judith Wallace Sat 4 Aug (7nts) MDMMO £729


Abingworth Judith Wallace Sat 2 June (7nts) AWMMW £679

Alnmouth Judith Wallace Mon 22 Oct (4nts) ALMMW £419


Dovedale Judith Wallace Mon 26 Mar (4nts) DVMMC £399

Bourton-on-the-Water Judith Wallace Mon 19 Nov (4nts) BNMMC £399


Selworthy Marcus Martin Mon 29 Oct (4nts) SLMMN £369

“The Concert Band holiday was excellent – far exceeded my expectations”Julian Noble – Fareham

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gPlay & Sing Folk Music British and Irish folk tunes and songs form a large part of folk music.

We’ll take the opportunity to work on a number of tunes, ballads and airs. If you are a guitar player who knows a few chords, a fiddler who can play a simple tune, a percussionist or a singer prepared to have a go, then this holiday is for you. More experienced players also welcome. The key requirement is to have fun.

Play UkuleleThe 4-stringed ukulele is portable, cheap, easy to learn and enormous fun to play. For complete beginners we’ll tackle tuning, chord shapes and strumming patterns to accompany simple songs – anything from folk songs and music-hall favourites to pop classics by The Beatles.

The Next Step holiday is ideal if you have a little more experience. We’ll cover a broad range of music, with the emphasis on the enjoyment of playing as a group.


Play Ukulele

Malhamdale Robin Andrews Mon 27 Feb (4nts) MDMGU £349

Derwentwater Robin Andrews Fri 30 Mar (3nts) DBMGU £269

Brecon Robin Andrews Mon 15 Oct (4nts) BRMGU £349

Next Step

Abingworth Robin Andrews Wed 16 May (3nts) AWMGA £269


Abingworth Robin Andrews Fri 20 Apr (3nts) AWMFO £269

Sedbergh Robin Andrews Fri 26 Oct (3nts) SDMFO £269

Play ViolinFriendly group sessions, simple melodies and harmony parts. We will

look at popular tunes, folk music and classical music. This holiday is aimed at players between Grades 1 and 3. You will be able to read music at sight and be able to play with different bowing styles such as slurs, legato and staccato. There will be some ensemble sessions. You will need to bring your own fully functioning violin with a set of spare strings and rosin.

The Next Step holiday will help you build on your skills, aimed at players between Grades 3 and 5. Music will be taken from traditional folk, tango and classical music.

Play KeyboardsWith a modern electronic keyboard you have a whole orchestra at your fingertips. Learn to pick out tunes by ear and read them from the page, add chords and control the sounds and rhythms. This holiday is ideally suited to beginners, with keyboards provided if required.

The Next Step holiday will help you build on your skills. As well as learning new chords, we’ll show you how to add your own intros, endings and fills, and have fun composing and improvising.


Play Violin

Conistonwater Nicola Bates Mon 26 Mar (4nts) CNMVB £369

Next Step

Freshwater Bay Nicola Bates Tues 23 Oct (4nts) FWMVN £369


Play Keyboards

Selworthy Katy Dyer Fri 30 Mar (3nts) SLMKB £299

Malhamdale Katy Dyer Mon 5 Nov (4nts) MDMKB £399

Next Step

Dovedale Katy Dyer Wed 26 Sept (3nts) DVMKN £299

Prices include: • Full Board en-suite accommodation with all meals included• A full programme of music sessions with an experienced leader

Information• Premium rooms: £5 per person per night • Single rooms: £8 per night (£5 per night if booked before 31 December 2011) • Value rooms discounted by up to £8 per night, where available• Non member associate fee: £5 per person

Furtherdetailsaboutallourholidaysareavailableonourwebsite:www.hfholidays.co.uk/music

Your holiday in a nutshell• Music sessions generally take place in the morning, late afternoon and evening

• We provide all the music and stands, good lighting and practice space

• We’ll ask you in advance about your instrument and standard so that our leaders can select appropriate music

• On the final evening there will usually be an informal concert where you can perform the music that you have practised during the holiday

• Our Orchestra & Choir and Concert Band holidays offer optional afternoon guided walks of up to 5 miles

• On other holidays the afternoons are free for you to explore the local area. All our Country Houses have maps and guidebooks available if you would like to walk independently

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Leader profile – Katy DyerKaty has taught piano and electronic keyboard privately and in schools, specialising in teaching visually impaired pupils. Katy enjoys helping and encouraging everyone to gain confidence in playing the keyboard and piano, from absolute beginners to the more advanced.

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Anyone can SingIf you are new to singing, or are perhaps finding your voice after a bit of a break, this holiday will introduce you to the joys of singing as a group. We’ll help you with your individual technique and will sing an enjoyable range of songs, and hopefully you will surprise yourself with simple but effective harmonies.

Singers’ Workshop – MasterclassThis is a fantastic opportunity for singers to meet up and receive some expert instruction to improve their individual technique and style. This holiday lends itself to solo singing, but there will be a chance to work together towards a final informal concert at the end of the holiday.


Selworthy Lena Phillips Fri 16 Mar (3nts) SLMSR £329

Whitby Sarah Boyer Sat 12 May (4nts) WYMSR £399

Freshwater Bay Liz Wilcox Tues 25 Sept (4nts) FWMSR £399

Malhamdale Tricia Dibb Sat 13 Oct (4nts) MDMSR £399


Conistonwater Tim Knight Mon 12 Mar (4nts) CNMSW £399

Haytor Lena Phillips Wed 12 Sept (3nts) HYMSW £329


Dovedale Dave Stewart Mon 2 Apr (4nts) DVMSV £399

Natural Voice A holiday devoted to the enjoyment of singing and developing your voice together with others in a relaxed, friendly environment. You'll learn songs from folk traditions around the world, in harmony, while working on releasing your natural voice. Learning is by listening and repetition using Natural Voice Practice, no musical knowledge required, though if you have some, great. All voices welcome, from absolute beginners and bathtub singers, to experienced choristers. The only requirement is that you want to have a go and have fun.

Jazz Singing – MasterclassHave fun learning to sing jazz; perhaps classics from Cole Porter, Irving Berlin or George Gershwin, as well as lesser-known gems. Accompanied by an expert pianist and tutor you’ll learn simple scat, decoration and freedom!


Haytor Lena Phillips Sat 5 May (4nts) HYMSJ £429

Dovedale Lena Phillips Mon 5 Nov (4nts) DVMSJ £429

Singers will also enjoy our Orchestra & Choir holidays. See page 22 for more details or visit www.hfholidays.co.uk

“The leader was brilliant and really made the group gel from the beginning”Bea Ferguson – Edinburgh(Singing for Pleasure holiday)

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look at a compilation of music used for royal weddings, and coronations including compositions by Handel, Mozart, Parry, Elgar & Haydn.

Sing a Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Enjoy the fun and satire contained in the world of Gilbert & Sullivan. As a group we’ll sing a selection of choruses, with budding soloists having the opportunity to tackle some of their signature songs. We’ll aim to sing an entire Gilbert & Sullivan opera, culminating in a final night’s performance. Optional guided walks are also offered each afternoon.


Freshwater Bay Marcus Martin Tues 12 June (4nts) FWMSQ £399


Alnmouth Judith Wallace Sat 1 Sept (7nts) ALMSD £729

Singing for PleasureThis holiday is all about group singing just for the fun of it, both in parts and in unison. We’ll sample a wide selection of music which could include traditional folk songs, Gilbert & Sullivan and music from the shows.


Brecon Matthew Brown Thurs 29 Dec 2011 (5nts) BRMSP £599

Isle of Arran Matthew Brown Sat 28 Apr (4nts) ARMSP £399

Abingworth David Ward Wed 27 June (3nts) AWMSP £329

Dovedale Tim Knight Sat 14 July (4nts) DVMSP £399

Brecon Marcus Martin Sat 29 Sept (4nts) BRMSP £399

Conistonwater Sarah Boyer Wed 17 Oct (3nts) CNMSP £329

If you are already an enthusiastic singer we also offer a range of more specialised holidays, which are suited to those with some sight-reading ability:

Your holiday in a nutshell• Singing sessions generally take place in the morning, late afternoon and evening

• We’ll ask you in advance about your range and singing ability so that our leaders can select appropriate music

• Afternoons are free for you to explore the local area. All our Country Houses have maps and guidebooks available if you would like to walk independently

• Our Choral Singing, Stage a Musical Show and Sing Gilbert & Sullivan holidays also offer optional guided walks each afternoon

• On the final evening there will usually be an informal concert where you can perform the songs that you have practised during the holiday

• Our Anyone can Sing and Natural Voice holidays are suited to all abilities. For our more specialist breaks you’ll need some basic sight-reading ability

Prices include: • Full Board en-suite accommodation with all meals included • A full programme of singing with an experienced leader • Transport to walks where listed

Information• Twin/double premium rooms: £5 per person per night • Single rooms: £8 per night (£5 per night if booked before 31 December 2011)• Value rooms discounted by up to £8 per night, where available• Non member associate fee: £5 per person

Furtherdetailsaboutallourholidaysareavailableonourwebsite:www.hfholidays.co.uk/singing

Sing MadrigalsExplore the magical world of Madrigals, partsongs and motets of the 16th and 17th centuries. We’ll sing the wonderful music of Weelkes, Gibbons and others. Our expert leader will help you with pitch, breathing and musicality, and will explain the music’s background.

Sing Mozart to MendelssohnEnjoy choral singing from a vast repertoire of music written in the classical and early romantic style. We’ll explore many sorts of choral work, whether written during or inspired by this thrilling period in musical history.


Selworthy Jonathan Rennert Sat 12 May (4nts) SLMSM £429


Brecon David Ward Mon 30 Apr (5nts) BRMSH £519

Stage a Musical Show Enjoy the challenge of rehearsing and performing a musical show in a week. You’ll be amazed at what can be achieved with expert coaching in vocal technique, stage movement and dialogue. Optional guided walks, of up to 5 miles, are also offered each afternoon.

Bach to Bacharach Back by popular demand! This is a singing break for singers who love to sing in harmony, but also like the varied styles of Baroque together with the more modern up-beat numbers. We hope to explore the works of Bach and Handel, but also some lovely arrangements of music written by the Beatles, Abba, and even Bacharach!

Songs for Christmas Get in the mood for Christmas and enjoy this celebration of festive music. We’ll sing traditional carols plus some new arrangements and lighter fare thrown in.


Freshwater Bay Joan Dean Sat 6 Oct (7nts) FWMSO £729


Abingworth Liz Wilcox Mon 26 Nov (4nts) AWMSA £399


Abingworth Judith Wallace Mon 5 Dec 2011 (4nts) AWMSX £379

Malhamdale Judith Wallace Mon 3 Dec 2012 (4nts) MDMSX £399

Choral SingingSing a pleasing mix of secular and sacred choral music, from 16th century works to modern day music. If you’re already singing in a choir we’ll extend your repertoire and share the enthusiasm of singing as a group. You can also enjoy optional guided walks of up to 5 miles each afternoon.

Sing British Choral MusicExplore a selection of sacred and secular choral music written between 1600 and the modern day. Starting with compositions by the English Madrigalists, we’ll move through four centuries covering compositions by Purcel, Arne and Elgar, together with the more modern repertoires of John Rutter and his contemporaries.


Derwentwater Matthew Brown Mon 27 Feb (4nts) DBMSC £459

Abingworth Joan Dean Sat 25 Aug (7nts) AWMSC £729


Malhamdale Marcus Martin Sat 8 Sept (4nts) MDMST £399

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MembershipHF Holidays is a co-operative society, owned by our members. All profits are ploughed back into making your holidays better.Join us and help shape our future – see page 62.

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Natural World• Getupcloseanddiscoverthenaturalworldinallitsglory• OutstandinglocationsthroughoutBritain&Europe• Knowledgeableleaderswillguideyoutothebestsites

BirdwatchingJoin an experienced guide and see the most interesting and unusual birds in their natural habitats. We may also visit reserves, or venture out at dawn or dusk to catch a glimpse of the more elusive species, whilst walking up to 6 miles each day.

Location highlights• Abingworth – the estuaries in this area are at their best in the winter. Seek out great numbers of winter wildfowl in the Arun Valley, and shore birds and sea ducks along the coast.

• Derwentwater – at Leighton Moss we will look for reed bed specialists such as bittern and bearded tit. We will also visit the sands and estuaries in West Cumbria as well as Caerlaverock on the Solway Firth, one of Britain’s largest salt marshes. Here we will hope to view barnacle geese, pink-footed geese, pintail and oyster catchers.

• Selworthy – here we will explore the coast, the moors of Exmoor and its oak woodland valleys. Sightings may include warblers, pied flycatcher, cuckoo, redstart, tree pipit, nightingale, raptors and waders.

• Old Hunstanton – Norfolk enjoys a reputation as being the best county in Britain for birds. We will explore the north coast including The Wash and sand marsh for waders and geese. Inland we may visit

the Norfolk Broads, the Fens, Breckland, farmland and ancient woodland for sightings of a huge number of birds, some of which may be rare or extremely rare in the UK.

• Alnmouth – an ideal location to view a variety of habitats and birds; highlights can include tree sparrows, terns and gulls, ouzel and cuckoo. A trip to the Farne Islands (weather permitting) will allow views of puffin colonies, other seabirds and grey seals.

• Arran – explore moorland, forest and foreshore seeking out waders, eider, buzzards, golden eagles and owls, amongst many others.

• Dolgellau – an excellent location to explore salt marshes, estuaries, woodland and moorland, including the beautiful Mawddach Estuary. We’ll seek out wildfowl, waders and raptors, hen harriers, merlin and red kites.


Abingworth Steve Bullen Tues 3 Jan (4nts) AWWBX £435

Derwentwater Steve Bullen Mon 5 Mar (4nts) DBWBW £435

Selworthy Kevin Morgan Fri 27 Apr (3nts) SLWBW £325

Old Hunstanton Lawrence Mitchell Sat 19 May (7nts) NKWBW £655

Alnmouth Steve Bullen Sat 9 June (7nts) ALWBW £729

Isle of Arran Chris Abell Sat 23 June (7nts) ARWBW £729

Dolgellau Kevin Spindloe Mon 8 Oct (4nts) DGWBW £435

Old Hunstanton Lawrence Mitchell Mon 29 Oct (4nts) NKWBW £399

European holidaysTake your birdwatching skills to one of our European resorts; visit new places and seek out species in migration or resident in the area.

Location highlights• Kolimbari – we will mainly be exploring the Crete prefecture of Chania including the excellent wetland site of Agia reservoir, notable for breeding birds and migrants. Over 200 bird species have been recorded here. The Frangocastello coastal strip and adjacent plains also afford sightings of a wide variety of birds.

• Praia da Luz – this area of Portugal offers a diverse range of habitats for us to explore. Visits can include Sagres and Cape St Vincent, the Alentejo plains, as well as marsh and estuary areas around Lagos. One of the highlights may be the natural reserve of Castro Marim, and the greater flamingos.


Flight included Yes No

Kolimbari Chris Abell Tues 24 Apr (7nts) CRWBW £899 £719

Praia da Luz Kevin Spindloe Thurs 18 Oct (7nts) AGWBW £859 £729

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FalconryDiscover the art of falconry with the opportunity to see magnificent birds at close hand. Each day you’ll visit a nearby birds of prey centre and learn how to handle the birds yourself. With the guidance of experienced falconers, you’ll be able to feed, groom and fly a variety of birds including hawks, vultures, eagles and owls.

Exmoor – Deer Rutting Weekend A unique opportunity to witness Exmoor’s magnificent wild stags during the rutting season in the company of National Trust experts. Learn about these majestic creatures then venture out late afternoon on the Saturday, and early morning on Sunday, when the deer are most active and the light is at its best for taking photographs.

Discover WildlifeDiscover the rich array of wildlife that the British countryside has to offer with our expert guides.

Location highlights• Glen Coe – Alltshellach provides a perfect base from which to explore various habitats. From moor to coast we will try and track down red deer, red squirrel, sea and golden eagle.

• St Ives – Cornwall has a rich flora and fauna with a variety of natural habitats including heath, coast grassland and marshes. We will look for marshland birds, sea birds and birds associated with the heath, as well as plants and insects. We will also take the time to check out some rock pools.

• Selworthy – a chance to discover wildlife in a wide diversity of habitats, from the moorland of Exmoor to valleys covered with mature oak woods, from spectacular coastal cliffs and headlands to marshes and mudflats. There will be autumn colours, and winter birds will be arriving.


Haytor Silverwings Falconry Wed 30 May (3nts) HYZBF £375

Malhamdale Ridgeside Falconry Wed 1 Aug (3nts) MDZBF £375


Selworthy National Trust Fri 12 Oct (2nts) SLWDR £225


Glen Coe Kevin Spindloe Sat 14 Apr (7nts) LLWWS £729

St Ives Kevin Hall Sat 16 June (7nts) SVWWS £729

Selworthy Kevin Morgan Sat 6 Oct (6nts) SLWWS £639

Prices include: • En-suite accommodation • Holidays in the UK are Full Board with all meals included (Guernsey and Norfolk Coast are Half Board)• Holidays in Kolimbari and Praia da Luz are Half Board • A full programme of walks and activities with a knowledgeable leader • All admissions and transport to sites of interest

Information• Twin/double premium rooms: £5 per person per night • Single rooms: £8 per night (£5 per night if booked before 31 December 2011)• Single rooms per night: Old Hunstanton £20, Guernsey £25, Kolimbari £19 and Praia da Luz £23• Value rooms in the UK discounted by up to £8 per night, where available• Non member associate fee: £5 per person

Furtherdetailsaboutallourholidays,includingwalksitineraries,areavailableonourwebsite:www.hfholidays.co.uk/naturalworld

Your holiday in a nutshell• These holidays are suitable for all, with no prior knowledge required

• Expect to walk 3 to 6 miles per day in all weather, with plenty of stops to view the flora and fauna

• We’ll generally spend the full day outdoors, leaving at 9.30am, and returning between 5 and 6pm

• All transport to and from the walks is included, as are any entrance fees, for example to RSPB hides

• Itineraries are flexible to take advantage of the weather and local sightings

• On 7 night holidays we include one free day when you can explore independently

Enjoy. Learn. Create.We also offer Wildlife Photography holidays and Sketching the Natural World holidays – see pages 9 & 12.

Discover WildflowersBrush up on your wildflower knowledge and discover Britain’s diverse natural flora with our expert leader.

Location highlights• Dolgellau – we will travel by mini-coach and on foot looking at the many habitats that this area has to offer, including dune systems for orchids, wintergreens and dwarf willows, marshes for sea aster

and sea lavender, and moorland for heathers. We will also explore the flower meadows in the valleys of Cwm Bychan and Cwm Nantcol and the magnificent fir trees in the forest of Coed y Brenin.• Freshwater Bay – visits to a variety of habitats will allow us to look for, amongst others, tufted centaury on chalk downland, yellow horned poppy and marsh mallow on the coastal dunes, bell heather on the heathland and Ragged Robin in a valley bog.

• Guernsey – the island famous for all kinds of native and naturalised flowering plants. Our visit will focus on the spring flush of flowers, many of which will be much earlier than in the rest of Britain.


Dolgellau Kevin Hall Fri 8 June (7nts) DGWFF £729

Freshwater Bay Geoff Toone Sat 7 July (7nts) FWWFF £729



Guernsey Kevin Hall Sat 14 Apr (7nts) GYWFF £859 £789

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2 Resort HolidaysWhy not extend your stay by combing Discover Wildlife in Selworthy with our Exmoor Deer Rutting Weekend?Call our Reservations team on 0845 470 7558 for more details.

Introduction to BridgeIf you can count to 13, you can play duplicate bridge. It’s not quite that simple, but we promise to make this introduction as straightforward as possible. Bridge is easy to grasp and you’ll soon be able to play the game. In the mornings we’ll introduce you to the rules and the basic tactics, while the supervised evening competitions will give you the chance to practise your new skills.

Next Step BridgeIf you’ve done an introductory course (possibly with us) or have a little prior experience, this holiday will develop your basic card play and improve your all-round game. We’ll revise basic bidding, help you tackle the competitive auction, and delve a little deeper into the game’s underlying principles. Friendly competitions take place each evening.


Abingworth Cliff Little Mon 20 Feb (4nts) AWBRB £365

Alnmouth Peter Speller Mon 29 Oct (4nts) ALBRB £365


Malhamdale Peter & Gail Foster Fri 16 Mar (3nts) MDBNS £275

Dovedale Cliff Little Wed 23 May (3nts) DVBNS £275

Bourton-on-the-Water Peter & Gail Foster Tues 2 Oct (3nts) BNBNS £275

Improve your BridgeFor those who already have some experience, these holidays are designed to take your duplicate bridge to the next level. The morning sessions will cover a host of topics such as defensive planning, overcalls, doubles, no trumps bidding and play, and opening leads and signals. The evening competitions enable you to put your new skills to the test.

Bridge PlayersIf you’re a regular duplicate bridge player at club level these breaks will help fine-tune your skills and develop your competitive edge. We’ll cover the seminar topics in greater detail, getting you to think hard about your game. Each evening a serious (but still fun) bridge competition enables you to put this into practise.


Sedbergh Peter Speller Mon 26 Mar (4nts) SDBRI £365

Brecon Peter & Gail Foster Fri 20 Apr (3nts) BRBRI £275

Alnmouth Neal Harris Wed 4 July (3nts) ALBRI £275

Bourton-on-the-Water Gordon Bickley Sat 1 Sept (4nts) BNBRI £365


Bourton-on-the-Water Gabriel Ip Mon 19 Dec 2011 (4nts) BNBRX £349

Bourton-on-the-Water Titch Glenday Mon 13 Feb (4nts) BNBRP £365

Dolgellau Gordon Bickley Mon 5 Mar (4nts) DGBRP £365

Whitby Peter Speller Mon 2 Apr (4nts) WYBRP £365

Abingworth Gordon Bickley Wed 30 May (3nts) AWBRP £275

Selworthy Gordon Bickley Sun 14 Oct (5nts) SLBRP £459

Malhamdale Gordon Bickley Fri 16 Nov (3nts) MDBRP £275

Bourton-on-the-Water Cliff Little Sun 9 Dec (4nts) BNBRP £365

English Bridge UnionHF Holidays is pleased to announce that all of our Bridge Players, Bridge & Walking and Bridge & Sightseeing holidays are now licensed by the EBU and offer Master Points.

Bridge• Friendlyduplicatebridgecompetitionseacheveningare thehallmarkofourholidays• Morningteachingsessionswithexperiencedbridge directorswilldevelopyourskills• Explorethelocalareaonoursightseeingand walkingholidays

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Bridge & SightseeingCombine your favourite game with coach excursions to the best local sights. During the week we’ll offer three full-day excursions. These tours are accompanied by our leader who’ll introduce you to the best countryside and historic sights. On the days when we’re not touring there’ll be bridge seminars in the morning, followed by a free afternoon to explore at your leisure. The evening bridge promises friendly competition to be enjoyed by all.


Sedbergh Stephen O'Brien Sun 29 Apr (6nts) SDBSL £579

Malhamdale Gabriel Ip Sat 16 June (7nts) MDBSL £689

Bourton-on-the-Water Cliff Little Sat 18 Aug (7nts) BNBSL £689

Haytor Gabriel Ip Sat 29 Sept (7nts) HYBSL £689

Prices include: • En-suite accommodation • Holidays in the UK are Full Board with all meals included• Holidays in Europe are Half Board• On relevant holidays, transport to and from the walks or for sightseeing is included

Information• Twin/double premium rooms: £5 per person per night• Single rooms: £8 per night (£5 per night if booked before 31 December 2011)• Single rooms per night: Puerto de la Cruz £14.50, Praia da Luz £23, Mellieha £12.50• Value rooms discounted by up to £8 per night, where available• Non member associate fee: £5 per person

Bridge & WalkingExercise your mind and body on this classic combination from the walking holiday experts. During the day you’ll have the choice of two walks; either an easier (5-7 miles) or harder route (8-10 miles), both carefully selected to enable you to see the best of the local area. We’ll return to the Country House with time to freshen up before the friendly duplicate bridge competition starts at around 5pm. Although teaching sessions are not included, our leaders will be happy to discuss any points which arise.


Abingworth Stephen O'Brien Sat 26 May (4nts) AWBRW £399

Malhamdale Gabriel Ip Sat 16 June (7nts) MDBRW £689

Selworthy Titch Glenday Sat 7 July (7nts) SLBRW £689

Isle of Arran Stephen O'Brien Sat 11 Aug (7nts) ARBRW £689

Conistonwater Stephen O'Brien Sat 25 Aug (4nts) CNBRW £399

Haytor Gabriel Ip Sat 29 Sept (7nts) HYBRW £689

If you already have some experience playing duplicate bridge you may enjoy these holidays, where the emphasis is on enjoying the local area during the day, and friendly competition in the evening.

Great for groupsOur leisure activity holidays are great for groups. Book with your local club or a group of friends and save up to 10% per person (see page 63).Call our friendly Groups team on 0845 470 7557 for more details.

“This was my first bridge holiday and I was very pleased to find it not at all intimidating, with a very friendly atmosphere”Dereck Yardley – Bridgnorth(Bridge Improvers holiday)

European holidaysPlay bridge, or combine bridge with sightseeing or walking at one of our European partner hotels.



Bridge Players Puerto de la Cruz

Gordon Bickley

Sat 17 Mar (7nts)

TEBRP £649 £529

Bridge & Walking Praia da Luz

Titch Glenday

Thurs 19 Apr (7nts)

AGBRW £759 £629

Bridge & Sightseeing

Mellieha Stephen O'Brien

Sat 20 Oct (7nts)

MWBSL £699 £549

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Workshop – Tips for Winning BridgeFor duplicate bridge players with some experience of the game, use this workshop to learn the methods that expert players use in their bidding, declarer play and defence. Morning tutorial sessions with practice hands, and a friendly bridge competition each evening.

Workshop – Improve Your DefenceMany contracts succeed only because of poor defensive play. This workshop will help you find the killing defence. The morning seminars will look at defensive planning and partnership co-operation and consider how to make a good opening lead. Our evening bridge competitions will allow you to put your new skills to the test.

Workshop – Better BiddingThe morning seminar will help you find your way into the elusive slams and thin games, paying particular attention to the use of various forms of doubles, and with overcalls. Friendly bridge competitions take place each evening.


Abingworth Matthew Clarke Fri 9 Mar (3nts) AWBRT £275

Malhamdale Gordon Bickley Mon 19 Nov (4nts) MDBRT £365


Whitby David Procter Mon 19 Mar (4nts) WYBRF £365

Dovedale Gordon Bickley Fri 9 Nov (3nts) DVBRF £275


Selworthy Titch Glenday Mon 2 Apr (4nts) SLBRD £365

Derwentwater Peter Speller Fri 23 Nov (3nts) DBBRD £275

Your holiday in a nutshell• Most holidays (unless otherwise stated) include morning teaching and practice sessions from 9.30am to lunchtime with a break for coffee• In the afternoon you can stay and play a few hands, perhaps building on the morning’s theme, or explore the local area at your leisure• Each evening the main bridge competition starts around 5pm, with a break for dinner. Relaxed competition is the hallmark of our bridge holidays with small prizes offered for fun• Our experienced bridge directors will lead the morning teaching sessions and organise a variety of competitions• We’ll arrange partnerships so you don’t need to book as a couple• Our bridge rooms are comfortable, quiet and as light as possible. All equipment and stationery is provided• Admissions to places of interest on our Bridge & Sightseeing holiday are not included – allow up to £30• On 7 night holidays we include a free day when you can explore independently during the day, before returning for the evening bridge competition

Prices include: • En-suite accommodation • Holidays in Britain are Full Board with all meals included


Furtherdetailsaboutallourholidays,includingwalksandsightseeingitineraries,areavailableonourwebsite:www.hfholidays.co.uk/bridge

Recommend a FriendDo you know someone who enjoys the same activities? Invite any new guest to join one of our holidays and you can both save £50. See page 67 for further details. Go on, spread the word and save £££££s.

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Garden Tours• Experiencethecolour,varietyandsheerbeautyofBritain’s andEurope’sbestgardens• Ourknowledgeableleaderswillhelpyougetthemostfrom yourvisits• Enjoyprivategardensaswellasgrandformaldisplays

Flower ShowsHampton Court Flower Show: This special short break includes a full day at the stunning RHS Flower Show. Set in the expansive parkland surrounding Hampton Court Palace there are extensive display gardens and floral marquees. On the next day we’ll visit the impressive Borde Hill garden which boasts 200 acres of Grade II listed park and woodland.

Malvern Spring Show: We’ll spend one full day at the Malvern Spring Gardening Show, based at the Three Counties Showground. This event showcases some of the finest garden design talent in

the country and the floral displays will simply take your breath away. We’ll spend the remaining two days visiting the best gardens in the area, such as Barnsley Gardens, Sudeley Castle, Hidcote and Kiftsgate Court Gardens.

Tatton Park Flower Show: On this short break you’ll spend a full day at this excellent RHS Flower Show to enjoy its numerous and varied horticultural attractions, set amidst the glorious acres of Tatton Park. On the second day we’ll take in the breathtaking Trentham Gardens, where the highlight is surely the Italian Gardens, one of the most impressive horticultural projects in Europe.


Abingworth Harry Mycock Wed 4 July (3nts) AWGDS £359


Bourton-on-the-Water Hilary Thomas Sat 12 May (4nts) BNGDM £449


Dovedale Sheila Ripper Wed 18 July (3nts) DVGDC £359

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CotswoldsThe golden villages of the Cotswolds are mirrored by its charming gardens. We include Bourton House with its fine topiary, knot garden and water features, the National Trust’s extensive garden at Hidcote and the lovely grounds of Sudeley Castle. On our autumn holiday your leader will guide you through the changing colours of the area’s best gardens and arboretums.

DerbyshireVisit Chatsworth where its world-famous cascade runs through a 4-acre garden set on many levels, and Renishaw Hall with its beautiful Italianate garden, park and lake.

DevonThe rich soil and mild climate of Devon have produced some fabulously colourful gardens, particularly the wonderful Garden House at Buckland Monachorum. We’ll also see the D’Oyly Carte family’s ‘Arts and Crafts’ garden at Coleton Fishacre, historic Killerton, and the stepped terraces at Castle Drogo.

Lake DistrictVisit a selection of gardens surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. Some highlights include Sizergh Castle with its rock garden and grassland studded with orchids and heather, and the charming walled garden at Holehird. We’ll also spend time at Holker Hall gardens.


Conistonwater Marina Scott Sat 26 May (7nts) CNGDT £769


Haytor Jim Hart Sat 19 May (7nts) HYGDT £769


Dovedale Harry Mycock Sat 26 May (4nts) DVGDT £449


Bourton-on-the-Water Hilary Thomas Sat 7 July (7nts)BNGDT

£769

Bourton-on-the-Water Harry Mycock Mon 22 Oct (4nts) £449

NorthumberlandAn undoubted highlight is the ambitious Alnwick Garden, designed to rival the world’s greatest. We’ll also visit the grounds of Cragside House and Howick Hall, plus the superb walled garden at Wallington.

Scottish HighlandsThe sea is never far away on our Garden Tour of the Scottish Highlands. We’ll visit An Cala on the romantic Isle of Seil, Arduaine overlooking the Sound of Jura, and Crarae, likened to a Himalayan ravine with beautiful trees and shrubs.

Southern SnowdoniaEnjoy visits to classically famous Welsh gardens. Highlights include dramatic Powis Castle with its ancient clipped yews adorning high terraces; Plas Brondanw with views of Snowdon; Bodnant in the Conwy Valley, and Glansevern, an elegant Greek revival house by the River Severn. We will feature some superb private gardens such as Caerau Uchaf near Bala.


Dolgellau Karen Platt Sun 29 July (6nts) DGGDT £649


Glen Coe Marina Scott Sat 19 May (7nts) LLGDT £769


Alnmouth Alan Appleton Sat 30 June (4nts)ALGDT

£449

Alnmouth Harry Mycock Sat 15 Sept (4nts) £449

Practical Gardening – an Introduction

to Planting This new holiday will teach you the practical techniques for planting your own seedlings and hanging baskets. There will be a good balance between demonstrations by our expert leader, visiting garden centres to buy plants and practical sessions where you plant your own trays and hanging baskets. If time allows we’ll also visit nearby public or private gardens.


Brecon Karen Platt Mon 23 April (4nts) BRGDP £449

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CornwallCornwall’s mild climate produces an array of flamboyant plants including an abundance of rhododendrons, camellias and magnolias. This holiday includes visits to the spectacular Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan – Europe’s largest garden restoration project. We also visit the ravine garden at Trebah and Trelissick gardens.


St Ives Wendy Tolson Sat 28 Apr (7nts) SVGDT £769

“I enjoyed the variety of the visits, and the sociability”Helen Lewis – Great Missenden(Lake District Garden Tour)

Somerset & North DevonSplendid coastal scenery and fabulous gardens abound in the west country. Visit Hestercombe, a stunning garden of mellow stonework, pools and delightful mixed planting. Medieval Cothay Manor has white, scarlet and purple themed gardens and extensive herbaceous borders. This holiday will be led by celebrity gardener, Christine Walkden.


Selworthy Christine Walkden Sat 9 June (7nts) SLGDT £889

SussexLed by our celebrity gardener, Christine Walkden, our Sussex Garden Tour includes Highdown, a thin soiled garden on the South Downs, and the Victorian walled garden of West Dean. We’ll also visit the exciting Sussex Prairies with its herbaceous plants and grasses.

European Garden ToursAmalfi Coast, Italy: Experience the dramatic coastal scenery and beautifully designed gardens on this lovely Sorrento Peninsula. Highlights of this holiday include the Island of Capri and the gardens of the Villa San Michele, and the volcanic Island of Ischia across the Bay of Naples with the stunning Mortelle gardens. We also visit the gardens of the Palazzo Reale at Caserta, inspired by the park at Versailles, as well as the landscaped gardens of the Villas Cimbrone and Rufolo in Ravello.

Gardens and Castles of Northern France: From our base at Vieux Villez in Normandy we have a range of diverse and interesting gardens to visit. Highlights will be Monet’s Garden at Giverny, the

focus of many of the artist’s impressionist paintings. Travelling through picturesque Normandy countryside and villages with half-timbered houses, we also explore the gardens of Château d’Acquigny. A little bit further afield we’ll visit the stunning Château Chantilly, with the formal grounds created by Andre le Notre in the 17th century. Also in Chantilly we take time to look at the Potager des Princes. Additionally, we’ll visit two castles on this holiday.


Abingworth Christine Walkden Sat 14 July (7nts) AWGDS £889

Prices include: • En-suite accommodation • Holidays in the UK are Full Board with all meals included • Holidays in Europe are Half Board • A full programme of garden visits with a knowledgeable leader • All admissions and transport

Information• Twin/double premium rooms: £5 per person per night • Single rooms: £8 per night (£5 per night if booked before 31 December 2011)• Single rooms per night: Sorrento £22; Vieux Villez £23• Value rooms in the UK discounted by up to £8 per night, where available• Non member associate fee: £5 per person

Your holiday in a nutshell• These holidays are suitable for all, with no prior knowledge required• We’ll generally spend the full day travelling and visiting gardens, leaving at 9.30am, and returning between 5 and 6pm• We normally visit two gardens per day, which can be a mix of private and public gardens, except in Europe where it may be one garden• All admission costs and transport are included• The gardens we visit often neighbour country houses, which you can visit as an alternative (admission not included)• On 7 night holidays we include one free day when you can explore independently• These holidays are quite strenuous and can include a lot of walking on uneven ground

Scottish IslandsThis holiday, based on the Isle of Arran, is for the adventurous gardens enthusiast, and includes a little more walking than our other holidays. We include exciting visits off the island to visit other gardens, such as the community-owned Gigha, the island off the west coast of the Kintyre Peninsula, and Culzean Castle on the Ayrshire mainland. Not forgetting of course Arran’s own famous castle and gardens with its amazing rhododendron displays.

Isle of WightWith its mild climate the Isle of Wight provides the basis for a garden

tour encompassing plants more usually associated with warmer climes such as the Mediterranean, South Africa and Australia. Ventnor Botanic Gardens takes us around the globe and Mottistone Manor Garden provides many inspirations including considerable Mediterranean planting. Osborne House provides an outstanding example of the eclectic Victorian mixed style. The Princess Beatrice Garden is Edwardian in style though it is the work of modern designer, Chris Beardshaw.

Yorkshire Dales There are many stunning public and private gardens to visit in the

beautiful Yorkshire Dales. Highlights of this new holiday will include Parceval Hall Gardens in Wharfedale, a hidden treasure and an historic plantsmans garden. We also visit RHS Garden Harlow Carr, dominated by water, stone and woodland, and the award winning gardens of Newby Hall near Ripon.

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Isle of Arran Marina Scott Sat 5 May (7nts) ARGDT £779


Freshwater Bay Wendy Tolson Tues 26 June (4nts) FWGDT £449


Malhamdale Wendy Tolson Mon 30 July (5nts) MDGDT £539

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Sorrento, Italy

Hilary Thomas

Sat 14 Apr (7nts) STGDT £1,079 £929


Eurostar & transfer included Yes No

Vieux Villez Sheila Ripper Thurs 10 May (4nts) VVGDT £779 £649

Vieux Villez Sheila Ripper Thurs 4 Oct (4nts) VVGDT £779 £649

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Heritage Tours• Discoverthehistory,industry,architecture, andinfluentialpeopleofourbeautifulcountry• Ourknowledgeableleaderwillenhanceyour holidaywithvisitsanddiscussions• Smallgroupsandcomfortablemini-coaches

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William Morris & Burne-Jones The art of William Morris and Edward Burne-Jones has experienced a huge wave of renewed popularity in recent years. From our base in the pretty Cotswolds village of Bourton-on-the-Water we’ll explore these two amazing men’s achievements. The story of their partnership in art and design will take you beyond the purely visual towards a new appreciation of their works.


Bourton-on-the-Water Jane Bingham Mon 2 July (4nts) BNHHJ £479

Stained Glass Appreciation Within easy reach of our Cotswolds base lies an unrivalled collection of glass from all ages. Ancient or modern, they all share a remarkable beauty. Learn how glass has been made through talks and visits to places as varied as Fairford Church, Coventry Cathedral, Gloucester Cathedral, and the Beauchamp Chapel at Warwick.


Bourton-on-the-Water Ann Beedham Mon 15 Oct (4nts) BNHSW £479

Discover the Victorians Freshwater Bay: The Isle of Wight was the favourite holiday location of many Victorians including Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, as well as the Poet Laureate Tennyson. We’ll visit the royal residence of Osborne House and explore the charming seaside resorts of Ryde and Ventnor.

Selworthy: Discover the splendours of the Victorian era including the National Trust’s remarkable time capsule of Tyntesfield House. We'll also visit the charming resort of Lynton and its Victorian cliff railway, and explore the industrial legacy of Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

Romans in Cumbria Explore the western end of Hadrian’s Wall and the coastal and Lake District forts, complemented by on-site and evening talks. Visits will include the recently re-excavated fort at Birdoswald, the spectacular Hardknott Fort and the Senhouse Museum at Maryport. We’ll also look at the wider heritage of the Roman Empire in the North, including the roads and civilian settlements that supported the Army.


Freshwater Bay David White Tues 10 July (4nts) FWHHV £479

Selworthy Chrissie Le Marchant Mon 22 Oct (4nts) SLHHV £479


Derwentwater Tom McCafferty Wed 26 Sept (3nts) DBHHR £359

Golden Age of Northumberland There are some evocative survivors from the world described by the Venerable Bede in his Ecclesiastical History of the English People (AD731). Highlights include Holy Island with its Priory, Durham Cathedral, and St Paul’s Church at Jarrow where his story began. We also visit Bamburgh, Coldingham Priory, and the Farne Islands where St Cuthbert lived as a hermit. Combine with Hadrian’s Wall (below) to form a 7 night holiday.

Hadrian’s Wall The Roman Empire found its northern limits in the wild and beautiful uplands of Northumberland and Cumbria. These bold defences of the Emperor Hadrian are now a World Heritage Site. We’ll visits the forts at Corbridge, Birdoswald, Chesters and Vindolanda, and enjoy optional short strolls beside some of the best-preserved sections. Combine with the Golden Age of Northumberland (above) to form a 7 night holiday.


Alnmouth Alan Appleton Fri 13 Apr (3nts)ALHHW

£359

Alnmouth Walter Willcox Wed 19 Sept (3nts) £359


Alnmouth Alan Appleton Mon 16 Apr (4nts)ALHHB

£479

Alnmouth Walter Willcox Sat 15 Sept (4nts) £479

Historic HousesDovedale: Described as ‘the Palace of the Peak’, Chatsworth House is one of the country’s great treasure houses with a huge art collection representing the evolving tastes of succeeding generations of the Cavendish family, who have lived here since the 1550s. We also visit Haddon Hall, a 14th century gem that preserves much of its Tudor and Elizabethan history.

Whitby: Bronze Age settlers, Romans, Normans and eminent Victorians have all left their mark on the houses and homesteads of North Yorkshire. Highlights include Helmsley Castle, the spectacular red brick Elizabethan mansion of Burton Agnes Hall, James Herriot’s home in Thirsk, and the fine collection of domestic buildings at the Ryedale Folk Museum.


Dovedale Liz Lowry Wed 23 May (3nts) DVHHH £359

Whitby Warwick Burton Sat 30 June (7nts) WYHHH £779

Arts & Crafts Movement in the Cotswolds

Another ideal opportunity to further discover the Arts and Crafts Movement in the Cotswolds. Highlights of this tour will include Rodmarton Manor, a beautiful house furnished according to all the Arts and Crafts ideals. We’ll visit Chipping Campden, a centre for the Arts and Crafts Movement in its heyday. Here we see Harts Silversmiths and the Guild of Handicrafts Museum. We’ll also take a look at All Saints Church in Selsley, lying at the very heart of the English Arts and Crafts Movement, and home to some outstanding windows designed by William Morris and Burne Jones.


Bourton-on-the-Water Wendy Devlin Mon 8 Oct (4nts) BNHHQ £479

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Arts & Crafts Movement in Cumbria Cumbria was a favourite haunt of William Morris and Edward Burne-Jones who, together with George Howard of Brampton, were integral figures in the Arts and Crafts Movement. We’ll visit Brantwood on Coniston, Broad Leys on Windermere, and learn about the Langdale lacemaking. Visits to private homes will also help us seek out magnificent textiles, wallpaper, furniture and stained glass. This holiday is a natural follow-on to William Morris and Burne-Jones (above).


Conistonwater Liz Lowry Mon 23 Apr (5nts) CNHHQ £579

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In the Footsteps of Lady Anne Clifford Discover the remarkable Lady Anne Clifford (1590-1676), who spanned the reigns of monarchs from Elizabeth I to Charles II. Explore her passion for her family estates in Yorkshire and Westmorland, which she fought tirelessly to regain and then restore. We’ll visit key sites including Appleby-in-Westmorland, Bolton Abbey, and her castles at Skipton and Brough.

Industrial Revolution Towards the end of the 18th century Britain embarked on a period

of industrial growth unparalleled in the field of human history, an era that has come to be known as the Industrial Revolution. From our base in the Peak District we’ll explore Leek, Stoke-on-Trent, Cromford and Crich – places associated with the major industries and smaller enterprises which stemmed from this era and which have left a rich and fascinating industrial heritage.

We’ll look at the social implications of the Industrial Revolution, as well as the transport networks of the time. Our expert leader will enhance the day excursions into Cheshire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Staffordshire with illustrated evening talks.

The War Secrets & Blenheim Palace A highlight of this new short break is a visit to Bletchley Park, historic

site of the secret British code-breaking activities during the Second World War and birthplace of the modern computer. We also visit Blenheim Palace, World Heritage Site and birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.


Sedbergh Walter Willcox Wed 5 Sept (3nts) SDHHO £359


Dovedale Adrian Light Sat 15 Sept (7nts) DVHHI £779


Bourton-on-the-Water Adrian Light Wed 13 June (3nts)BNHHU

£359

Bourton-on-the-Water Adrian Light Fri 23 Nov (3nts) £359

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Northumberland National Trust Tour Join our leader on a tour of the wonderful National Trust locations

throughout Northumberland, ranging from the well known Farne Islands, Lindisfarne, Gibside, Cragside and Wallington, to the lesser known places such as Thomas Bewick’s house at Cherryburn and George Stephenson’s birthplace at Wylam.


Alnmouth Alan Appleton Sat 25 Aug (7nts) ALHHM £779

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Discover Waterways Brecon: The Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal is a delight, with its aqueduct at Brynich, the lift bridge at Tal-y-bont and the lovely flight of locks at Llangynidr. We’ll also trace the old Glamorganshire Canal to Cardiff’s tidal barrage, where we include a boat trip to the waterfront, and explore the restored Montgomeryshire Canal through scenic mid-Wales.

Malhamdale: There are many beautiful tranquil canals to explore within easy reach of Newfield Hall, including the Leeds to Liverpool, with level sections in idyllic countryside and the mighty Bingley 5 rise locks. The

Rochdale Canal, the highest canal across the Pennines without a tunnel, passes through some dramatic moorland scenery, while the Huddersfield Narrow Canal offers a glimpse into Standedge Tunnel – the longest in Britain at over 3 miles. Find out about the people who built and worked these canals as well as enjoying the beautiful scenery they pass through.


Malhamdale Chrissie Le Marchant Wed 9 May (3nts) MDHWB £359

Brecon Warwick Burton Sat 29 Sept (4nts) BRHWB £479

Lakeland National Trust Tour Thanks to the bequests of Beatrix Potter and many others, the National Trust in Cumbria is the guardian of some of Britain’s most beautiful and spectacular scenery. Learn about the early history of the Trust on a stroll through its first purchase, Brandelhow Woods on the shores of Derwent Water. We’ll also visit buildings as diverse as the little Bridge House in Ambleside and Sizergh Castle near Kendal.


Derwentwater Walter Willcox Sat 16 June (7nts) DBHHM £779

Searching for the Sublime – the 18th Century Tourist For the past 200 years the rugged mountain scenery of the Lake District has been considered sublime. During the 18th century the war with France, and improved roads, created a new kind of traveller – the tourist. We’ll follow in the footsteps of these early pioneers on a grand tour that includes gentle walks along lake shorelines, a cruise on Windermere and on Coniston Water’s steam powered Gondola.


Derwentwater Tom McCafferty Sat 22 Sept (4nts) DBHHF £479

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Railway ToursGreat Little Trains of Wales: Our new Country House at Dolgellau offers an outstanding base from which to visit the celebrated narrow-gauge railways of Wales. Highlights include journeys on the Talyllyn, Vale of Rheidol and Welshpool & Llanfair railways, each with unique locomotives and stunning scenery. A ride on the newly reopened Welsh Highland Railway from Porthmadog to Caernarfon is a fitting conclusion to this enjoyable week.

Northwest Railway Tour: Explore the rich railway heritage of northwest England. We’ll ride the Settle to Carlisle line, considered England’s most scenic route, built through the rolling hills of the

Pennines. Another daytrip by train will take us to the National Railway Museum at York with its iconic locomotive collection. The area’s many preserved lines also feature, with visits to the Keighley & Worth Valley, East Lancashire, and Embsay & Bolton Abbey railways.

Highland Railway Tour: Journey through the Highlands by train soaking up the outstanding mountain scenery. We’ll visit the Strathspey steam railway and ride the West Highland line

from Fort William to Oban, including the crossing of Rannoch Moor. A highlight is undoubtedly the steam-hauled Jacobite service to Mallaig with breathtaking views throughout.


Dolgellau Chrissie Le Marchant Sun 27 May (7nts)DGHRW

£779

Dolgellau Warwick Burton Sat 20 Oct (7nts) £779


Glen Coe Alan Appleton Sat 18 Aug (4nts) LLHRP £479


Malhamdale Warwick Burton Sat 19 May (7nts) MDHRL £779

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Furtherdetailsaboutallourholidays,includingleadersandsightseeingitineraries,areavailableonourwebsite:www.hfholidays.co.uk/heritagetours

Prices include: • Full Board en-suite accommodation with all meals included• A full programme of tours with an experienced leader


Your holiday in a nutshell• Generally, we’ll spend the full day touring and visiting places of interest, leaving at 9.30am, and returning between 5 and 6pm

• Admissions to all places of interest are included

• Transport for all visits is included in your holiday price

• These holidays all involve active sightseeing and you should expect to spend lots of time on your feet. There could be steps and occasional steep ground

• No specialist knowledge is required for any of these holidays


• Evenings usually include a short talk with time to socialise with other guests

Leader profile – Alan AppletonWith his interest in local history, Alan became a Blue Badge Guide for North East England and enjoys showing visitors around the area. As well as pursuing his interest in historic buildings, castles and stately homes, Alan is also a keen gardener.

Literary Tours• Discovergreatauthorsandtheirworksinasmallgroup environment• Stimulatingplacesofinterest• Expertleaderswilldevelopyourknowledgeandunderstanding

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Jane Austen & the Regency Follow in the footsteps of Jane Austen on our tours across Southern England. We'll visit the key sites which played a large part in her life, such as her home at Chawton, Winchester and the Regency resort of Brighton. Discussions and talks will help bring an understanding of this fine author who wrote Pride and Prejudice, Persuasion and Emma.

The Brontës Literature & CountrysideThe Pennine landscape had a great impact on the Brontë sisters’ works and is most evident in the novel Wuthering Heights. We’ll visit places associated with their lives and literature such as Haworth and the Brontë birthplace at Thornton where Charlotte, Emily, Anne and Branwell were born. We'll also visit the ruined Wycoller Hall, the inspiration behind Ferndean Hall in Jane Eyre. Discussions and talks will enhance your understanding of this great literary family.


Abingworth Wendy Devlin Mon 19 Mar (4nts)AWALA

£479

Abingworth Liz Lowry Mon 8 Oct (4nts) £479


Malhamdale Liz Oakley Wed 23 May (3nts)MDALB

£359

Malhamdale Liz Oakley Wed 12 Sept (3nts) £359

Literary SussexSussex and its neighbouring counties have been home to some of the nation’s greatest authors in a number of different genres. We'll visit homes of literary greats such as Rudyard Kipling and HG Wells and tour through the landscapes that inspired writers such as DH Lawrence and Jane Austen.


Abingworth Adrian Light Sat 30 June (4nts) AWALW £479

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Wordsworth’s Literary Lakeland The Lake District has a rich literary heritage and a landscape that has inspired writers and poets, such as Coleridge, Wordsworth, Ruskin, Tennyson, Arthur Ransome, Beatrix Potter and Melvyn Bragg. We’ll visit places associated with the lives and works of the innovative people who have been motivated by England’s most beautiful countryside.

Shakespeare, Stratford & Warwick A detailed exploration of William Shakespeare’s work, birthplace and

life is not complete without a trip to Stratford, where we’ll also visit Mary Arden’s house and Anne Hathaway’s cottage. Additionally we visit Warwick Castle, home to Richard Neville, 16th Earl of Warwick, known as the Kingmaker who featured in the Henry VI plays. Talks and discussions will enhance your enjoyment and understanding of England’s great playwright known as ‘the Bard’. Ticket to a Shakespeare play is included.

Tennyson & Literary Wight Alfred Lord Tennyson is the immediate literary figure that comes to

mind when one thinks of the Isle of Wight, but on this holiday we’ll also be looking at other nationally acclaimed authors such as Charles Dickens, JB Priestley, Virginia Woolf and Lewis Carroll. They all graced the island with their presence at some time during their lives. We’ll consider a number of different literary forms; novels, short stories, poems, letters, diaries, drama. There will be a walk of just under 2 miles on each day.

Literary Peaks From our base in the Peak District we’ll explore some of the great

industrial areas which spawned some of our most renowned novelists. Their writing will be considered in the context of the ‘social problem novel’ which examined hardships which affected the working classes. We’ll visit Knutsford, linked with Elizabeth Gaskell, and we’ll explore the ‘five towns’ of the Potteries, where we encounter Arnold Bennett against the background of Anna of the Five Towns. We discover DH Lawrence and places associated with him against the background of Sons and Lovers.

The Life & Works of Agatha Christie Agatha Christie wrote her very first novel ‘The Mysterious Affair at

Styles’ whilst enjoying a stay at our Moorlands House at Haytor in 1916. During this holiday we’ll visit Greenway, her holiday home on the River Dart, take a ride on the steam railway between Paignton and Kingswear, and visit Torquay where she was born and grew up, and first heard the name Hercule Poirot.


Derwentwater Frances Carroll Wed 13 June (3nts) DBALL £359


Bourton-on-the-Water Alban O'Brien Wed 13 June (3nts)BNALN

£379

Bourton-on-the-Water Alycia Smith-Howard Fri 2 Nov (3nts) £379


Freshwater Bay Adrian Light Tues 4 Sept (4nts) FWALW £479


Dovedale Adrian Light Sat 22 Sept (4nts) DVALW £479


Haytor Pat Beasley Mon 16 Apr (4nts)HYALK

£479

Haytor Pat Beasley Sat 15 Sept (4nts) £479

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Your holiday in a nutshell• Literature discussions and talks will be enhanced by visits to places of interest

• All admission costs and transport are included

• These holidays are suitable for anyone with an interest in learning more about their chosen author or literary subject. The enjoyment of the holiday may be enhanced if you read some of the author’s works prior to the holiday

• Many holidays spend the full day travelling and visiting sights with a literary theme, leaving at 9.30am, and returning between 5 and 6pm

• Expect to be on your feet – some of these holidays include some walking

Literary Cotswolds Discover the rural villages, country houses, pubs and churches of the Cotswolds that inspired a great number of authors and poets. We’ll introduce you to the works and lives of Flora Thompson, author of ‘Lark Rise to Candleford’, Laurie Lee, Edward Thomas, and Jane Austen, as well as visiting William Morris’ ‘prettiest village in England'.


Bourton-on-the-Water Liz Lowry Sat 23 June (4nts) BNALW £479

Prices include: • Full Board en-suite accommodation with all meals included • A full programme of literary appreciation with an experienced leader • Transport to visits

Information• Twin/double premium rooms: £5 per person per night • Single rooms: £8 per night (£5 per night if booked before 31 December 2011)• Value rooms discounted by up to £8 per night, where available • Non member associate fee: £5 per person

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Brecon BeaconsWild hills, remote valleys and many other delights await you on this Discovery Tour in the heart of Wales.

Highlights: Aberdulais Falls with its natural beauty alongside metalworking mills; the bookshop town of Hay-on-Wye; a wildlife centre famous for Red Kites; the bustling town of Abergavenny; and the peace and tranquillity of the monastic ruins of the Llanthony Priory at the foot of the Black Mountains.

Discovery Tours are all about exploring the great British countryside. Travelling by mini-coach we’ll follow the back roads, reaching places that are sometimes inaccessible on a large coach. We stop to look at views, explore villages and market towns, plus a selection of museums, historic buildings and attractions. With our small groups and friendly leaders this is a great way to enjoy some of Britain’s most scenic areas.

CornwallThis most westerly of counties entices the visitor with its mild climate, rugged coastline, and wonderful fishing villages. On our Discovery Tour we’ll encounter the above and more.

Highlights: Lizard Point, well known to naturalists for rare flowers, insects and seabirds; the extensive gardens at Trelissick; picturesque fishing harbours such as Mousehole; the Celtic village of Chysauster and the dramatic coastal cliffs of Zennor.


Brecon Adrian Light Sat 5 May (7nts)

BRHCR

£729

Brecon Paul Wakely Sat 7 July (7nts) £729

Brecon Chrissie Le Marchant Sat 15 Sept (7nts) £729


St Ives Pat Beasley Sat 28 Apr (7nts)

SVHCR

£729

St Ives Paul Wakely Sat 23 June (7nts) £729

St Ives Warwick Burton Sat 1 Sept (7nts) £729

DiscoveryTours• TravelthebackroadsofBritainbymini-coach• Expertlyplanneditinerariestakeyoutothebestscenery andplacesofinterest• Knowledgeableleaderswillsharethearea’shistory andculture

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Cotswolds Green rolling countryside, honey-coloured Cotswold villages and thatched cottages typify this charming corner of England.

Highlights: picturesque village of Snowshill; the Roman city of Cirencester; the ‘wool’ church at Northleach; the wool town of Chipping Campden; lovely gardens of Sudeley Castle; and Kiftsgate Court.

Dartmoor The lush rolling countryside of South Devon is in stark contrast to the wild moorland of Dartmoor.

Highlights: Princetown and its famous prison; Uncle Tom Cobley’s Widecombe-in-the-Moor; the maritime city of Exeter; the naval town of Dartmouth; and the delightful village of Chagford.

Derbyshire Dales This holiday is set in the White Peak, with its beautiful limestone scenery. We’ll explore a wide variety of scenery including the Dark Peak in the north, tranquil river valleys, and picturesque villages and market towns.

Highlights: limestone gorge of Dove Dale and the nearby villages of Alstonefield and Hartington; market town of Bakewell; estate village of Tissington; Castleton situated beneath the ruined Peveril Castle; and the ‘Palace of the Peak’ – the stately home and gardens of Chatsworth house.

ExmoorThe largely unspoilt countryside of Exmoor, bounded by high cliffs in the north, is perfect for our Discovery holidays.

Highlights: fascinating Valley of Rocks with its weird rock formations; Cleeve Abbey which has some of the finest cloisters in England; picturesque villages such as Selworthy and Bossington; the coastal village of Lynmouth; a steam train ride in the Quantocks and a visit to Arlington Court.Location Leader Date Code Price

Bourton-on-the-Water Chrissie Le Marchant Sat 7 July (7nts)BNHCR

£729

Bourton-on-the-Water Phil Laverack Sat 22 Sept (7nts) £729


Haytor Pat Beasley Sat 19 May (7nts)

HYHCR

£729

Haytor Pat Beasley Sat 30 June (7nts) £729

Haytor Warwick Burton Sat 8 Sept (7nts) £729

Haytor Chris Howes Sat 6 Oct (6nts) £629


Selworthy Steve Bullen Sat 26 May (7nts)

SLHCR

£729

Selworthy Chris Howes Sat 14 July (7nts) £729

Selworthy Pat Beasley Sat 22 Sept (7nts) £729


Dovedale Chrissie Le Marchant Sat 9 June (7nts)DVHCR

£729

Dovedale Wendy Devlin Sat 18 Aug (7nts) £729

Prices include: • Full Board en-suite accommodation with all meals included• A full programme of excursions and visits with a knowledgeable leader• Transport by mini-coach


Isle of ArranDescribed as ‘Scotland in Miniature’ this beautiful island has a bit of everything to offer.

Highlights: glimpses of amazing wildlife including seals in the bays, red deer on the hills, and maybe even a golden eagle; wonderful grounds and gardens of Brodick Castle; ancient standing stones at Machrie Moor; Lochranza whisky distillery; and a day across the seas to the remote Kintyre Peninsula.


Isle of Arran Marina Scott Sat 23 June (7nts)ARHCR

£729

Isle of Arran Maie Semple Sat 25 Aug (7nts) £729

Christmas & New YearCelebrate Christmas and New Year at one of our Country Houses. You may enjoy our Festive Discovery Tour at Bourton-on-the-Water or at Whitby.Visit www.hfholidays.co.uk/festive for more details.

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Isle of WightTowering chalk cliffs and pretty villages help form this charming island landscape which has been home to smugglers, poets and royalty.

Highlights: the smuggling village of Brighstone; Ventnor’s famous botanical gardens; the distinctive Needles and Alum Bay; Osborne House – home of Queen Victoria; Quarr Abbey with its group of Benedictine monks; the bustling port of Yarmouth; and traditional villages of Bonchurch and Brading.

Lake District – ConistonwaterRemarkable landscapes much admired by poets, writers and artists, and traditional stone and slate houses will be much in evidence on this Discovery Tour. We also visit the outlying fringes of the national park.

Highlights: cruise on Lake Windermere; steam train from Haverthwaite; visits to Ambleside, Grange-over-Sands, Ulverston and the medieval village of Cartmel; Holker Hall and gardens; dramatic Langdale Valley; Wastwater; Muncaster Castle; and Brockhole visitor centre.

Lake District – DerwentwaterThe rugged mountains of the northern Lake District form a dramatic backdrop to this holiday. Impressive mountain passes, wild and unspoilt areas will create a lasting impression.

Highlights: wild and beautiful Borrowdale; Back o’Skiddaw; charming Loweswater and Ennerdale; Carlisle and Hadrian’s Wall; and a lake cruise on beautiful Ullswater.

NorthumberlandIsolated and beautiful is an accurate description of the Secret Kingdom of Northumberland, with moorland, hills, rocky headlands and sandy beaches.

Highlights: historic Bamburgh Castle; Holy Island and Lindisfarne Priory; evidence of Border Reivers at Preston Tower; World Heritage Site of Hadrian’s Wall; Warkworth Castle; the magnificent mansion house of Wallington and its gardens; and the beautiful villages of Ford and Etal.


Freshwater Bay Carole Ferguson-Ball Sat 5 May (7nts)

FWHCR

£729

Freshwater Bay Audrey Salter Sat 16 June (7nts) £729

Freshwater Bay Carole Ferguson-Ball Sat 29 Sept (7nts) £729


Alnmouth Paul Wakely Sat 9 June (7nts)ALHCR

£729

Alnmouth Alan Appleton Sat 22 Sept (7nts) £729


Conistonwater Marilyn Bryce Sat 12 May (7nts)

CNHCR

£729

Conistonwater Tom McCafferty Sat 2 June (7nts) £729

Conistonwater Marina Scott Sat 7 July (7nts) £729

Conistonwater Marilyn Bryce Sat 1 Sept (7nts) £729


Derwentwater Walter Willcox Sat 12 May (7nts)DBHCR

£729

Derwentwater Marilyn Bryce Sat 4 Aug (7nts) £729

North York MoorsPicturesque fishing villages, open moorland, bustling market towns and the beautiful Hambleton Hills all await you on this Discovery holiday.

Highlights: North York Moors steam railway to Grosmont; spectacular North Yorkshire coast with picturesque fishing villages such as Robin Hood’s Bay and Staithes; busy market towns of Pickering and Thirsk; impressive ruins of Rievaulx Abbey and the peaceful Mount Grace Priory.

Scottish HighlandsTowering mountains, quiet lochs, magnificent views, historic houses and wonderful photography opportunities will ensure that your Discovery holiday is memorable. There will be some longer journeys on this holiday but the wonderful scenery will more than make up for this.

Highlights: atmospheric Highland Glens of Glen Roy, Glen Orchy and Glen Nevis; Glenfinnan and Bonnie Prince Charlie’s monument; harbour town of Oban; iconic Eileen Donan Castle; and the historic town of Inverary.

Southern SnowdoniaHigh mountains, glaciated valleys, pleasant villages and spectacular coastal scenery are all in abundance on this holiday.

Highlights: Barmouth and Harlech Castle; Bala Lake and Lake Vyrnwy; Cardigan Bay and the Tallyllyn railway; Newtown and Powis Castle; Snowdonia and Portmeirion.


Whitby Frances Carroll Sat 26 May (7nts)

WYHCR

£729

Whitby Alan Appleton Sat 14 July (7nts) £729

Whitby Paul Wakely Sat 18 Aug (7nts) £729


Glen Coe Maie Semple Sat 5 May (7nts)

LLHCR

£729

Glen Coe Warwick Burton Sat 21 July (7nts) £729

Glen Coe Marina Scott Sat 29 Sept (7nts) £729


Dolgellau Warwick Burton Sat 7 July (7nts)

DGHCR

£729

Dolgellau Paul Wakely Sat 4 Aug (7nts) £729

Dolgellau Wendy Devlin Sat 15 Sept (7nts) £729

Tom Curtis / Shutterstock.com

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SussexMuch of Sussex and the South Downs has recently become a national park. We’ll explore this attractive landscape, travelling through market towns and rolling chalk downland.

Highlights: historic village of Steyning with its different types of architecture; the fascinating garden at Highdown; Weald and Downland Museum; Petworth House with its landscaped gardens; Norman port of Bosham; and the Elizabethan manor house at Parham.

Yorkshire Dales – MalhamdaleThis part of the Yorkshire Dales has plenty of spectacular scenery with its limestone pavements, beautiful villages, stunning waterfalls and World Heritage Sites.

Highlights: monastic priory at Bolton Abbey; the impressive limestone gorge of Gordale Scar and nearby Malham Cove; bustling market town of Settle; delightful Dales villages including Malham, Grassington and Litton; and the World Heritage Site of Fountains Abbey.

Yorkshire Dales – SedberghThe market town of Sedbergh is ideally located under the dome shaped Howgill Fells. We’ll explore the Yorkshire Dales, the Howgills, and the aptly named Eden Valley.

Highlights: Aysgarth Falls; the small market town of Hawes famous as the home of Wensleydale cheese; the wild Pennine uplands above Swaledale and its villages; Barnard Castle and the Bowes Museum; the dramatic High Force Waterfall in Teesdale; market towns of Appleby-in-Westmorland and Kirkby Stephen.


Abingworth Chris Howes Sat 30 June (7nts)

AWHCR

£729

Abingworth Phil Laverack Sat 11 Aug (7nts) £729

Abingworth Audrey Salter Sat 1 Sept (7nts) £729


Malhamdale Walter Willcox Sat 28 Apr (7nts)

MDHCR

£729

Malhamdale Judith Edgoose Sat 23 June (7nts) £729

Malhamdale Judith Edgoose Sat 21 July (7nts) £729

Malhamdale Chrissie Le Marchant Sat 8 Sept (7nts) £729


Sedbergh Judith Edgoose Sat 9 June (7nts)SDHCR

£729

Sedbergh Frances Carroll Sat 15 Sept (7nts) £729

Fulldailyitinerariesareavailableonourwebsite:www.hfholidays.co.uk/discoverytours

Prices include: • Full Board en-suite accommodation with all meals included• A full programme of excursions and visits with a knowledgeable leader• Transport by mini-coach

Information• Premium rooms: £5 per person per night• Single rooms: £8 per night (£5 per night if booked before 31 December 2011)• Value rooms discounted by up to £8 per night, where available• Non member associate fee: £5 per person

Your holiday in a nutshell• Generally we’ll spend the full day touring and visiting places of interest, leaving at 9.30am, and returning between 5 and 6pm

• For maximum flexibility admissions are not included – allow £40-£45. Please remember to bring your National Trust or English Heritage membership cards if you have them

• These holidays all involve active sightseeing and you should expect to spend lots of time on your feet

• Optional short strolls of up to about 1½ miles allow you to stretch your legs and see the best local scenery


Discovery Tours in Europe• ExploresomeofEurope’smostscenicandhistoricareas• Friendlyleaderswillhelpyoudiscoverthefoodandculture• Carefullyplanneditinerariesincludeoutstandingsceneryand fascinatinghistoricsights

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MallorcaLeave Mallorca’s busy resorts behind and discover the island’s beautiful coastal scenery, traditional villages and the stunning Serra de Tramuntana mountains.

Highlights: Deia, home of the writer Robert Graves; Lluc Monastery; Valldemossa, immortalised by Chopin’s ‘Winter in Majorca’; and a vintage train journey to the vibrant Mallorcan capital of Palma.

Southern Tuscany From the delightful setting of the walled town of San Quirico d’Orcia, enjoy classic Tuscan scenery and historic towns.

Highlights: beautiful Renaissance city of Siena; San Gimignano; the charming hilltop villages of Montepulciano, Montalcino and Pienza; and a tour into Umbria to visit Lake Trasimeno.

Tenerife The paradise island of Tenerife offers lush forests, beautiful coastlines, exotic flora and fascinating volcanic scenery.

Highlights: Mount Teide National Park; Orotava Valley; Garachico fishing port; Puerto de la Cruz; Botanical Gardens; and the historic former capital La Laguna.

Sorrento The Sorrento Peninsula has long been known for its world-famous heritage sites, colourful fishing villages and inland countryside of vineyards and lemon groves.

Highlights: remarkable buried Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum; Amalfi Drive around the coast; Positano and Ravello; and a day trip to the enchanting island of Capri.



Puerto de Sóller Dave Weatherley Sat 12 May (7nts) PSLEL £839 £719



San Quirico Chris Ellis Sun 29 Apr (7nts)SNLEL

£949 £799

San Quirico Yvonne Varley Sun 7 Oct (7nts) £949 £799



Puerto de la Cruz

Dave Stannard Sat 24 Mar (7nts) TELEL £759 £639



Sorrento Christine Brook Sat 21 Apr (7nts)STLEL

£969 £819

Sorrento John Parkinson Sat 6 Oct (7nts) £969 £819

Information• Single rooms per night: Baška Voda £20; Puerto de Sóller £10; Sorrento £22; San Quirico £9; Puerto de la Cruz £14.50• Non member associate fee: £5 per person

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Dalmatian Coast Stunning coastal scenery, and the backdrop of the Biokovo Mountains, form the setting for this discovery tour in beautiful Croatia.

Highlights: Local visit to viewpoint in the Biokovo Mountains; Omis gorge; historic city of Split; medieval port of Trogir; Krka National Park.



Baška Voda Elaine Hudson Sat 21 Apr (7nts)BVLEL

£869 £679

Baška Voda Noel Hudson Sat 13 Oct (7nts) £869 £679

2 Resort HolidaysWhy not combine a Discovery Tour in Baška Voda with a City Break in Dubrovnik?See page 49 or call our Reservations team on 0845 470 7558 for more details.

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Information• Single rooms per night: Stalheim £23; Menton £16; Petrovac £18; Seefeld no supplement• Non member associate fee: £5 per person

Your holiday in a nutshell• Good quality 3 or 4-star hotels (see pages 59 - 61)

• Five days of sightseeing using hired minibuses or local transport, included in the holiday price

• Services of an HF Holidays’ leader who will accompany each tour. On some Discovery Tours there will also be a local guide

• For maximum flexibility admissions are not included – allow £40-£45


• Optional short strolls of approximately 2½ miles allow you to stretch your legs and see the best local scenery


Furtherdetailsaboutallourholidaysareavailableonourwebsite:www.hfholidays.co.uk/discoverytours

NorwayExplore the beautiful and dramatic landscapes of Norway’s Western

Fjords from our spectacularly located family run hotel overlooking the Naerøy Valley, a World Heritage Site.

Highlights: Ride the famous Flåmsbana train; cruise the magnificent Sognefjord and Naerøyfjord; spend time in historic Bergen; see the Stave church in Vik.

Austrian TirolFrom our base in the Leutasch Valley we can enjoy marvellous Alpine scenery, flower-filled meadows and pretty Austrian hamlets.

Highlights: Mountain railway to Innsbruck; Seefeld and the Mosern Peace Bell; Garmisch-Partenkirchen and the Zugspitze (Germany’s highest mountain); Leutasch Gorge.

French RivieraTo the east of Monaco, the pastel-shaded, palm-lined seaside town

of Menton is within walking distance of the Italian border. Framed by lush gardens and lemon groves, Menton has a pretty pebbled beach and a charming old town.

Highlights: The ‘perched’ villages of Eze and St Agnes; Sospel and the Mercantour National Park; Cap Ferrat and the marvellous Ephrussi villa; medieval Italian villages and Hanbury gardens; evening visit to Monaco.

Montenegro CoastThis holiday provides plenty of opportunity to discover Montenegro,

the ‘Black Pearl’ of the Balkans, with its stunning untouched landscapes and cultural heritage.

Highlights: The beautiful Bay of Kotor with the Old Towns of Perast and Kotor; Stari Bar and the Gradiste Monastery; coastal town of Budva and the restored paintings at the Rezevici Monastery; Lake Skadar National Park.



Stalheim Charlie Street Wed 13 June (7nts) VSLEL £1,399 £1,049



Seefeld Audrey Salter Sat 2 June (7nts) ATLEL £949 £739



Menton Gwyneth Wild Sat 10 Mar (7nts) CZLEL £1,099 £899



Petrovac Gwyneth Wild Sat 12 May (7nts)MGLEL

£849 £689

Petrovac Paul Wakely Sat 29 Sept (7nts) £899 £739

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Information• Single cabin supplement per night: Rhine £29.50, Danube £34 • Deck supplement per night: Danube middle deck £8, Danube upper deck £10 • Non member associate fee: £5 per person

Your holiday in a nutshell• Good quality river cruise ship

• Full cruise itinerary, with shore excursions included in price

• Full Board meal package from dinner on first evening to breakfast on final day. Drinks are included with on board meals (house wine, water, beer, fruit juice and tea or coffee)

• Accommodation in en-suite main deck cabin (supplements applicable for middle deck or upper deck). Cabins for the Rhine cruise are all on upper deck, no supplements payable

• Return flights and transfers

• Services of an HF Holidays’ leader who will escort your chosen river cruise

• Some overnight cruising can be expected

The Romantic RhineThe Rhine, an historic and international river, rising in the Alps, flows

into the North Sea 1,350km further on its journey. It is the 29th longest river in the world, but doubtless one of the busiest in Europe, charming boatmen and passengers alike. This 6 day cruise focuses on the Middle Rhine, or Romantic Rhine, a UNESCO listed heritage centre.

Highlights: Strasbourg; Rudesheim and the Lorelei Rock; Koblenz; and Heidelberg.

The River DanubeThe beautiful Blue Danube, so the waltz goes. The second longest river

in Europe, rising in the Bavarian town of Donaueschingen, passing through or acting as the border of 10 European countries and finishing in the Black Sea. On this 8 day cruise we will visit three of them: Austria, Slovakia and Hungary.

Highlights: Vienna; Melk and its beautiful Abbey; Dürnstein and the Wachau; Bratislava; Kalocsa and the Puzsta; Esztergom; and Budapest.

Ship Leader Date Code Price


MS Boheme Ian Winterbourn Tues 12 June (5nts) RCRCE £1,059 £839

Ship Leader Date Code Price


MS Beethoven Rob Dightam Fri 13 July (7nts)DARCE

£1,439 £1,219

MS Beethoven Sandy Smith Fri 10 Aug (7nts) £1,439 £1,219

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Discovery Tours Afloat2012 sees the introduction of European River Cruising into our programme. In conjunction with French Cruise specialist CroisiEurope we offer two classic itineraries – The Rhine and The Danube. Relax on board and watch delightful countryside pass by. Go ashore and discover the many pretty towns and historic cities alongside the great European waterways. Enjoy good food, good company and comfortable en-suite cabins, and occasional evening entertainment on board. Relaxation and discovery – what more could you want? The additional benefit of all this – you only have to unpack once.

Featured River Cruise ShipRiver Rhine – MS Boheme Built in 1995, fully refurbished in 2006, it has 80 cabins, which are on the main deck and upper deck. All cabins are en-suite with shower and wc, and have hairdryer, satellite tv, radio and safe. The ship also features a lounge bar with dance floor, dining room, large sundeck with deckchairs, and a gift shop.

River Danube – MS Beethoven Built in 2004, it has 90 cabins, which are on the main deck, middle deck and upper deck. All cabins are en-suite with shower and wc, and have hairdryer, satellite tv, radio and safe. The ship also features a lounge bar with dance floor, bar, dining room, large sundeck with deckchairs, gift shop, and a lift.

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Breaks• DiscoverthehistoryandcultureofEurope’sgreatcities• Smallfriendlygroups• Knowledgeableleadersaddawealthofinteresttoyourvisit

Barcelona Embrace the vibrant heart of Catalan culture in Spain’s second largest city. Discover all things Gaudí, from the towering Sagrada Família to colourful Parc Güell, and sample the local flavours – fresh seafood, tapas and Catalan dishes.

Highlights: La Ramblas; Sagrada Família; harbour front; Montjuic and the Olympic Stadium; and the market of St Joseph.



Barcelona Helene van Kerkoerle Fri 23 Dec 2011 (4nts)

BCLCL

£649 £389

Barcelona Dave Stannard Mon 21 May (4nts) £589 £365

Barcelona Dorothy Woodcock Mon 8 Oct (4nts) £589 £365

• 4 nights’ Bed & Breakfast en-suite accommodation• Single room: £28 per night (£22 per night Xmas)

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Istanbul Discover the only city which spans both Europe and Asia, with its skyline dominated by mosques, minarets and Byzantine architecture. Taste the exoticism of the East as you step into the heady world of the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market.

Highlights: Aya Sofya; Blue Mosque; The Hippodrome; Topkapi Palace; boat trip up the Bosphorus; and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art.

Dubrovnik Described as the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik is truly a stunning city with an amazing Old Town. Once known as Ragusa, it is also known as the Museum Town, thanks to its preserved buildings which help to recreate the atmosphere of the 7th century.

Highlights: City Walls; the Stradun; Sponza Palace; Franciscan Monastery; Cathedral; and the Rector’s Palace. There may also be the opportunity to visit the neighbouring island of Lokrum.

Berlin Explore a wealth of cultural and historical sites dating from the Prussian Empire to the Cold War. Stroll down the majestic Under den Linden, headed by the mighty Brandenburg Gate, or get a bird’s eye view over the city from the TV tower above Alexanderplatz.

Highlights: Ku’damm avenue; Alexanderplatz; Reichstag; Schloss Charlottenburg; Checkpoint Charlie; and the Jewish Museum.

Copenhagen Combine the best of Denmark’s culture and museums with Copenhagen’s picturesque coastal position. Trace the country’s Royal Family with visits to the Fredensborg and Amalienborg Palaces, or sit back for a relaxing canal tour of the Danish capital.

Highlights: Town Hall; Round Tower; Nyhavn; boat trip to the Little Mermaid; Tivoli Gardens; Fredensborg Royal Palace; Helsingor and the Kronborg Palace.

Bruges & Ghent Follow Bruges’ winding canals and atmospheric medieval streets which have given rise to its nickname ‘Venice of the North’. The picturesque squares, streets and canals are lined with gabled merchants’ houses and historic churches.

Highlights: Kantcentrum lace centre; Jerusalem Church; Burg Square; the Beguinage; canal walk to historic centre of Damme; and a full day visit to Ghent.



Istanbul Helene van Kerkoerle Sat 3 Mar (6nts)

ISLCL

£579 £389

Istanbul Warwick Burton Sat 12 May (6nts) £749 £509

Istanbul Charles Doidge Sat 22 Sept (6nts) £749 £509

Istanbul Rob Dightam Sat 20 Oct (6nts) £709 £489



Dubrovnik Charles Doidge Sat 28 Apr (4nts)DULCL

£599 £409

Dubrovnik Gwyneth Wild Sat 20 Oct (4nts) £599 £409



Berlin Dick Brader Mon 11 June (4nts)

BLLCL

£559 £359

Berlin Dorothea Gerenkamp

Mon 16 July (4nts) £559 £359

Berlin Dave Stannard Mon 1 Oct (4nts) £559 £359



Copenhagen Maie Semple Mon 30 Apr (4nts)COLCL

£599 £429

Copenhagen Dorothy Woodcock Mon 20 Aug (4nts) £599 £429


Train & transfer included Yes No

Bruges Warwick Burton Fri 23 Dec 2011 (4nts)

BULCL

£519 £399

Bruges Harry Timmer Mon 11 June (4nts) £509 £379

Bruges Sheila Ripper Mon 17 Sept (4nts) £509 £379

• 4 nights’ Bed & Breakfast en-suite accommodation• Single room: £24 per night


• 6 nights’ Bed & Breakfast en-suite accommodation• Double room for sole occupancy: £44 per night (£26.50 per night March)

• 4 nights’ Bed & Breakfast en-suite accommodation • Return train fare to Ghent• Single room: £32 per night


2 Resort HolidaysWhy not combine a City Break in Dubrovnik with a week’s Discovery Tour in Baška Voda?Call our Reservations team on 0845 470 7558 for more details.

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Your holiday in a nutshell• Centrally located hotels – 3-star standard or higher

• Bed & Breakfast basis allowing flexibility for evening meals. You can choose to eat with the leader and group or make your own arrangements

• Full programme of sightseeing, mostly on foot, sometimes using local transport. Allow €50-€95 for admissions and local transport

• An HF Holidays’ leader accompanies each tour and will help you get the most out of your City Break


• If booking flights with us, airport transfers are also included

Prague Follow the maze of medieval cobbled streets in the city’s fairytale Old Town. View the city of a hundred spires from one of Prague’s many bridges across the Vltava, and explore the former Jewish quarter with its atmospheric cemetery and synagogues.

Highlights: Wenceslas Square; Old Town Square and Tyn Church; Castle District; Charles Bridge and Kampa Island; and the Jewish Quarter.

St Petersburg Peter the Great’s ‘Window on the West’, St Petersburg, was built

to the Tsar’s command over 300 years ago; a handsome city risen out of swampland. Apart from the seamless architectural ensemble and canals at the heart of ‘Piter’, there are world-class museums and stunning opulent palaces.

Highlights: Winter Palace and Hermitage Museum; Peterhof Palace; Peter & Paul Cathedral; Summer Garden; Russian Museum.



St Petersburg Francis Gottesman Mon 23 July (5nts)SPLCL

£919 £669

St Petersburg Francis Gottesman Mon 24 Sept (5nts) £869 £609



Prague Warwick Burton Mon 30 Apr (4nts)PRLCL

£559 £389

Prague Audrey Salter Mon 1 Oct (4nts) £559 £389

Paris Wander past the iconic sights and monuments that make Paris the decadent city it is. Soak up the Parisian atmosphere and sample French cuisine in charming local restaurants.

Highlights: Montmartre; Eiffel Tower; Ile de la Cité and Notre Dame; Arc de Triomphe; River Seine and the Left Bank; and the Musée d’Orsay.


Eurostar & transfer included Yes No

Paris Jason Shaw Fri 23 Dec 2011 (4nts)

PALCL

£559 £429

Paris Deirdre Bartley Fri 30 Dec 2011 (4nts) £589 £459

Paris Helene van Kerkoerle Mon 16 Apr (4nts) £519 £389

Paris Janet Coles Mon 14 May (4nts) £519 £389

Paris Jason Shaw Mon 17 Sept (4nts) £529 £399

Seville & Cordoba Explore Seville’s narrow streets which still ooze with the spirit of bullfighters, flamenco and gypsies. You can also soak up Cordoba’s fascinating Moorish past and the atmospheric Jewish quarter with its synagogue and flower-filled patios.

Highlights: Seville Cathedral with its Giralda Bell Tower and Patio de los Naranjos; Royal Alcazar; and Cordoba’s Mezquita Cathedral.



Seville Rob Dightam Mon 12 Mar (4nts)SXLCL

£529 £349

Seville David Smith Mon 22 Oct (4nts) £589 £409

Krakow Poland’s former capital, Krakow, is one of Europe’s most exquisite treasures. Wander in the largest medieval town square, and listen to the buglers from St Mary’s Church. Explore the old Jewish quarter, Kasimierz, and learn about its sad history.

Highlights: Wawel Hill and the Castle; the Old Town and the Cloth Hall; Kazimierz Jewish Quarter; Wielicza Salt Mines; and a visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau.



Krakow Francis Gottesman Fri 23 Dec 2011 (4nts)

KKLCL

£559 £369

Krakow Maie Semple Mon 12 Mar (4nts) £499 £329

Krakow Dave Stannard Mon 3 Sept (4nts) £549 £379




• 5 nights’ Bed & Breakfast en-suite accommodation • Russian visa support document• Single room: £35 per night

• 4 nights’ Bed & Breakfast en-suite accommodation • Return train fare to Cordoba• Single room: £16 per night (£26 per night October)

Venice Feel the city’s magical aura with its maze of romantic canals, awe-inspiring architecture and medieval vibes. View Venice from the waterways as we hop between the islands and admire masterpieces by Bellini, Carpaccio, Titian, Tintoretto and Veronese at the outstanding Accademia Gallery.

Highlights: Rialto Bridge; St Mark’s Square and the Basilica; Doge’s Palace; islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello; Accademia Gallery.



Venice Deirdre Bartley Mon 19 Mar (4nts)

VELCL

£519 £389

Venice Tom Kelly Mon 23 Apr (4nts) £649 £479

Venice Christine Brook Mon 28 May (4nts) £649 £479

Venice Joanne Webster Mon 10 Sept (4nts) £649 £479

Venice Gordon Simmonds Mon 22 Oct (4nts) £649 £479

• 4 nights’ Bed & Breakfast en-suite accommodation• Single room: £31 per night• Double room for sole occupancy: £45 per night

Information• Non member associate fee: £5 per person• For details of our partner hotels visit our website or see our Walking & Outdoor Holidays brochure• Up to date flights and transfer timings are available on our website

Furtherdetailsaboutallourholidaysareavailableonourwebsite:www.hfholidays.co.uk/citybreaks

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Freedom BreaksWhetheryou’restayingwithafriendorpartnerdoinganactivityholiday,wanttoextendyourholidaybyafewdays,orjustwantsometimeaway,ourFreedomBreaksofferflexibilityandfreedom.StayatoneofourCountryHousesanduseitasabaseforindependentsightseeing,walkingorrelaxing.

What you get:

• Full Board accommodation at our charming Country Houses

• Free Ordnance Survey Explorer Map with each booking

• Detailed Freedom Break Guide containing information about local walks, museums and activities

• At each Country House you’ll find a variety of maps, guidebooks and further information to help you discover the local area

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Jan, Feb, March, Nov, Dec – excluding Christmas, New Year and Easter

Fri, Sat £75 per night

Sun to Thurs £69 per night

May, June, July, Aug, Sept – plus Easter



April, Oct



Prices include: • Full Board en-suite accommodation with all meals included• Explorer Map and detailed information booklet (1 per booking)

Information• Please note that all dates at Dolgellau are priced at £89 per night• Single rooms: £8 per night (£5 per night if booked before 31 December 2011)• Twin/double premium rooms: £5 per person per night• Non member associate fee: £5 per person• Freedom Breaks are not covered by the ABTOT arrangements

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Freedom Breaks Taster SessionsIf there are other holidays running alongside your Freedom Break, you can join in for a special price of £20 per person for the first day (£40 per person per session on subsequent days). You don’t have to book ahead – you can decide when you get there.

Comfort and value at our Country Houses

Stay with usAll our Country Houses are in outstanding scenic areas. Many are in national parks, close to historic towns or surrounded by stunning countryside.

Great facilitiesInside an HF Holidays’ Country House you’ll discover it’s a place in tune with your needs. Comfortable lounges and ballrooms are ideal for our indoor holidays. If you’re heading outside all our properties have superb drying facilities and boot rooms.

Relax and socialiseA busy day needs a good breakfast and we have an excellent choice available from the full-on cooked, to a healthy mix of fruit and cereal. In the evenings you can relax with us for a table d’hôte meal and unwind in the tasteful public rooms or bar – plan your next day, enjoy the friendly conversation or join in the social activities.

A little bit specialSelected premium bedrooms are available for an extra £5 per person per night. Rooms vary and are selected for their extra size, additional facilities or exceptional views.

Great valueDon’t forget, one price gets you food, accommodation and your chosen activity. You only pay for your drinks.

Look at what your holiday includes:

• A full programme of activities on your chosen holiday, led by an experienced tutor

• Full Board – your choice of breakfast, our picnic lunches and excellent evening meals with coffee or tea included

• Good quality accommodation in en-suite bedrooms

• Free use of all facilities, plus sociable evening activities

• Free WiFi in public rooms and on public computers

Glen Coe

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Derwentwater

Conistonwater

Brecon

Selworthy

St Ives

Alnmouth

Haytor

Abingworth

Bourton-on-the-Water

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Abingworth South Downs

Alnmouth Northumberland

Bourton-on-the-Water Cotswolds

Situated in the peaceful Sussex countryside, at the foot of the South Downs, Abingworth Hall is a quiet Country House with a special charm enhanced by oak panelling. The house stands beside its own lake and is surrounded by eight acres of garden with a beautiful lawn and heated outdoor swimming pool. In the main house are two lounges, a function room and conservatory, together with 29 bedrooms. All holidays at Abingworth Hall are Full Board with breakfast, lunch and a high-quality evening meal all included• Abingworth Hall has two excellent lounges, plus an attractive conservatory, making it particularly well-suited to indoor holidays such as Bridge, Music Appreciation, Music Making and Singing• The House also has a good-sized ballroom and is one of our most popular locations for Dancing breaks• Abingworth is close enough to London to reach Shakespeare’s Globe on a Theatre break, or Hampton Court Flower Show on a Garden Tour

Historic Nether Grange occupies a wonderful seaside location in the quiet harbour village of Alnmouth. The building began life as a granary and in its current guise as a comfortable Country House, with 28 en-suite bedrooms, retains much of its old character. After a day’s activities you may wish to stroll around the harbour and beach, enjoy a drink in our seafront café, or watch the world go by from the terrace. All holidays at Nether Grange are Full Board with breakfast, lunch and a high-quality evening meal all included• This border region is rich with history. Discover more about Hadrian’s Wall or Lindisfarne’s early Christianity on one of our Heritage Tours• The Northumberland coast is a fabulous marine habitat and you can discover its many birds and mammals on a Natural World holiday• Nether Grange has two spacious lounges and a good-sized ballroom that are well-used on indoor holidays including Bridge, Dancing and Art & Crafts

Dating from the Tudor period, Harrington House mirrors the mellow architectural style of the Cotswolds, and is just 100 yards from the centre of Bourton-on-the-Water, one of the Cotswolds’ showcase villages. There are 23 en-suite bedrooms in the main building and adjacent cottages, plus a cosy lounge, lawn and walled garden to be enjoyed.All holidays at Harrington House are Full Board with breakfast, lunch and a high-quality evening meal all included• Harrington House has two lounges, the larger of which is ideal for Bridge and Music Making, while the smaller room has a peaceful atmosphere well-suited to Music Appreciation• Stratford-upon-Avon is within easy reach and you can indulge in a spot of Shakespeare on a Theatre break or Literary Tour• Travel rural back roads on a Discovery Tour or learn more about historic houses or the art of William Morris on a Heritage Tour• Picturesque Bourton-on-the-Water is popular with artists and the area boasts many inspiring locations for our Art & Crafts holidays

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DerwentwaterLake District

Monk Coniston is a romantic Gothic-style Country House, complete with a minstrels’ gallery, ornate public rooms and a traditional 17th century barn. This historic building is leased from the National Trust and occupies a premier Lake District location with glorious views of Coniston Water and the surrounding fells. There are 33 bedrooms in the main house, adjoining cottage and counting house.All holidays at Monk Coniston are Full Board with breakfast, lunch and a high-quality evening meal all included• The Southern Lake District is classic touring country. Travel by mini-coach along back roads and mountain passes on a Discovery Tour• Our traditional Lakeland barn generates a great atmosphere and has a good-sized dance floor for Dancing holidays• The elegant lounge, with its views of the lake, makes a peaceful retreat for Mind & Body and Music Appreciation holidays• Capture the beauty of the Lake District on a Photography holiday

With the best waterfront of any hotel on Derwent Water, and splendid views of the surrounding fells, Derwent Bank offers a truly exceptional location. You can soak up these beautiful surroundings from the wonderful conservatory and landscaped grounds, which slope down to the lake jetty. The 38 en-suite bedrooms offer high standards of accommodation. All holidays at Derwent Bank are Full Board with breakfast, lunch and a high-quality evening meal all included• Outstanding scenery is right on the doorstep. This can be fully appreciated on a Discovery Tour, or learn to capture this inspiring landscape on a Photography holiday• Discover how the Lake District has inspired generations of writers including Wordsworth, Ruskin and Beatrix Potter, on a Literary Tour• Enjoy a Theatre break with performances at Keswick’s highly-regarded Theatre by the Lake, or take in a live concert at the Jazz Festival• Derwent Bank has a good-sized ballroom, plus a spacious lounge and conservatory, making a great location for a range of indoor holidays including Dancing, Bridge, Mind & Body and Singing

Brecon Brecon BeaconsNythfa House is a charming Country House, located on the edge of the market town of Brecon. In this quiet setting you can relax in the attractive gardens or the conservatory with its abundant grapevines, or make use of the indoor swimming pool. There are 31 en-suite bedrooms in the main House and in the grounds, together with a comfortable lounge, bar and ballroom.All holidays at Nythfa House are Full Board with breakfast, lunch and a high-quality evening meal all included• There is a good-sized ballroom which is put to good use on our Dancing breaks, and is also well-suited to many of our Music Making and Singing holidays• Festivals – Brecon will be the base for the Three Choirs Festival, and

nearby Hay-on-Wye’s renowned literature festival is amongst our best-selling holidays

• The studio room in the grounds is a light space for Art & Crafts and Mind & Body holidays

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Dovedale Derbyshire Dales

Freshwater BayIsle of Wight

Newton House lies at the heart of the Peak District’s Derbyshire Dales amidst a landscape of rolling pasture and dry stone walls. This 18th century former coaching inn is just a short walk across the fields from Dove Dale itself. There are 21 en-suite bedrooms in the main building and in converted stable rooms across the courtyard.All holidays at Newton House are Full Board with breakfast, lunch and a high-quality evening meal all included• The ballroom is used extensively for Dancing, Bridge, Art & Crafts, Music Making and Singing holidays• Buxton Opera House has excellent performances throughout the year that can be enjoyed on our Theatre and Festivals holidays• Dovedale can also be used as a base for a Garden Tour to the Tatton Park Flower Show or a Heritage Tour of the region’s industrial centres

Named after the semi-circular cove it overlooks, Freshwater Bay House occupies a premier coastal location on the Isle of Wight. Many of the 36 en-suite bedrooms have wonderful sea views, with others overlooking the extensive grounds. Dating from the 1790s, this prominent local landmark is now a very comfortable Country House with lounges, a light and airy ballroom and heated outdoor swimming pool.All holidays at Freshwater Bay House are Full Board with breakfast, lunch and a high-quality evening meal all included• The Isle of Wight is a convenient size to explore in a week. Visit its hidden corners on a Discovery Tour or learn more about its famous Victorian residents on a Heritage Tour• Freshwater Bay House has good indoor space and superb grounds, making it a popular location for Art & Crafts holidays• There is a good-sized ballroom that is well-used on a wide variety of Dancing and Singing holidays• Two comfortable lounges are ideal for indoor holidays such as Music Appreciation and Mind & Body

Dolgellau Southern SnowdoniaDolserau Hall is a couple of miles from the attractive market town of Dolgellau, with extensive views over the surrounding hills, and the summit of Cadair Idris in the background. The 23 en-suite bedrooms in the main building and converted coach house are all of a good size and furnished to a high standard. The comfortable lounge, bar and dining room all offer peaceful spaces to relax after a day’s activity.Under its previous ownership, Dolserau Hall was graded as a 3-star Country House Hotel by Visit Wales, and was awarded an AA rosette for its food.All holidays at Dolserau Hall are Full Board with breakfast, lunch and a high-quality evening meal all included• The comfortable lounge provides a flexible space for our Bridge holidays• Stunning scenery provides a lovely backdrop to our Gardens, Discovery and Great Little Trains of Wales holidays• Nearby RSPB reserves and the rich birdlife of Southern Snowdonia are ideal for our Birdwatching holidays

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Glen CoeWestern HighlandsSurrounded by towering mountains, Alltshellach has a stunning location on the shores of beautiful Loch Leven. Formerly a residence of the Bishop of Argyll, its facilities now include two lounges (one a former chapel), a ballroom and the popular Highland bar. Following extensive refurbishment there are 36 en-suite bedrooms, all in the main building, and a magnificent indoor swimming pool and spa pool.All holidays at Alltshellach are Full Board with breakfast, lunch and a high-quality evening meal all included• Visit the iconic locations of Glen Coe and Glenfinnan on a Discovery Tour and learn more about Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobite Rebellion• Capture this awe-inspiring mountain scenery on a landscape Photography or Painting holiday• Enjoy a Garden Tour through the coastal landscapes of Western Scotland discovering a wide variety of interesting flora

HaytorDartmoorMoorlands is a fine Country House situated high on the moor below Haytor Rocks, one of Dartmoor’s best-known landmarks. It was in this magnificent setting that Agatha Christie wrote her first book, The Mysterious Affair at Styles, in 1917. The 34 en-suite bedrooms look out over rolling Devon countryside and the eight acres of grounds. Our newly-refurbished cafe is a popular recent addition. All holidays at Moorlands are Full Board with breakfast, lunch and a high-quality evening meal all included• Moorlands has our largest ballroom and is a popular venue for our Dancing and Music Making holidays• The wilds of Dartmoor and its wooded fringes support a huge variety of birds and mammals which can be fully appreciated on a Natural World holiday• Spacious lounges are ideal for indoor holidays such as Bridge and Music Appreciation

Isle of ArranAltachorvie is a superbly located Scottish Country House on Arran’s beautiful east coast. From this peaceful spot there are excellent views across Lamlash Bay to Holy Island and the whole of Arran is within easy reach. There are 34 en-suite bedrooms, some in the main building and others in rooms in the grounds.All holidays at Altachorvie are Full Board with breakfast, lunch and a high-quality evening meal all included• Tour the island on one of our Discovery Tours or capture this spectacular landscape on a Photography holiday• The island has a wealth of birdlife which can be fully appreciated on our Birdwatching holidays • The large ballroom is well suited to Dancing and Singing holidays

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MalhamdaleYorkshire DalesJust a few miles from Malham’s famous cove, Newfield Hall is a grand 19th century Country House. Situated in extensive grounds amidst the relaxing scenery of the Yorkshire Dales, the House combines elegant public rooms with modern facilities, including an indoor swimming pool and new dining room. There are 45 en-suite bedrooms in the main building and adjoining coach house.All holidays at Newfield Hall are Full Board with breakfast, lunch and a high-quality evening meal all included• The large ballroom makes Newfield Hall one of our best venues for Dancing breaks• Two comfortable lounges and a light activity room are well-suited to a range of indoor holidays including Bridge, Singing, Music Appreciation and Mind & Body breaks• Explore Wuthering Heights in the footsteps of the Brontë sisters on a Literary Tour, or soak up the beautiful scenery of the Yorkshire Dales on a Discovery Tour

SedberghYorkshire DalesWith its unique ambience and peaceful location, Thorns Hall will appeal to anyone in search of a relaxing break. Dating from 1535 this small manor house retains its historic charm with cosy public rooms, wood panelling and open fires. There are 21 en-suite bedrooms in the main building and in cottages across the courtyard. Situated a few minutes’ walk from the centre of Sedbergh at the foot of the Howgill Fells, it offers lovely views from the doorstep.All holidays at Thorns Hall are Full Board with breakfast, lunch and a high-quality evening meal all included• Explore this beautiful unspoilt corner of the Yorkshire Dales on a Discovery Tour, with the Lake District also within easy reach• The cosy and peaceful atmosphere of the two lounges is particularly well-suited to Bridge holidays

SelworthyExmoorOnce home to the distinguished Acland family, Holnicote House lies at the heart of a 12,500-acre estate in Exmoor National Park. Leased from the National Trust, this delightful historic building is set amidst peaceful gardens with extensive lawns and a heated outdoor pool – a charming and relaxing base for any holiday. There are 29 en-suite bedrooms, located in the main building and in the Butlers and Guns cottages in the grounds.All holidays at Holnicote House are Full Board with breakfast, lunch and a high-quality evening meal all included• The beautiful scenery of Exmoor is right on the doorstep. Discover hidden corners on a Discovery Tour or soak up the region’s rich horticulture on a Garden Tour• The panelled ballroom is put to good use on a wide variety of Dancing holidays, whilst the two excellent lounges are ideal venues for Bridge and Singing holidays• Selworthy’s peaceful location, extensive public rooms and attractive grounds make it a popular location for a relaxing Mind & Body holiday

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St Ives CornwallChy Morvah, meaning ‘house by the sea’ in Cornish, is certainly an appropriate name for this characteristic seaside hotel. From the panoramic lounge and the dining room, the view stretches right across the golden sands of St Ives Bay. There are 38 en-suite bedrooms in the main building and adjacent Lanyons House, plus a heated outdoor pool in the mature grounds. A short walk will take you down to the bustling centre of St Ives – a delightful town with art galleries, a colourful harbour and glorious sandy beaches.All holidays at Chy Morvah are Full Board with breakfast, lunch and a high-quality evening meal all included• St Ives is a mecca for artists and this makes it an ever-popular destination for our Art & Crafts holidays• Cornwall’s mild climate produces a rich variety of flora – on a Garden Tour you can visit highlights such as the Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan• On a Natural World holiday you can discover Cornwall’s rich coastal and inland ecosystems

WhitbyNorth York MoorsLarpool Hall, an elegant Georgian mansion built in 1796, commands splendid views over the Esk Valley and towards the sea at Whitby. The imposing grandeur of the building is complemented by its excellent modern facilities, including a large entertainment lounge with dance floor area. There are 29 en-suite bedrooms, many of which look out over the tranquil wooded grounds.All holidays at Larpool Hall are Full Board with breakfast, lunch and a high-quality evening meal all included• The main lounge is particularly spacious and is ideal for Bridge, Singing and Mind & Body holidays. The room also has a suitable area for Dancing• The smaller lounge has a cosy atmosphere for Music Appreciation• On a Discovery Tour you can explore the North York Moors by mini-coach, visiting nearby Grosmont and the charming coastal villages of Staithes and Robin Hood’s Bay

HF Holidays has launched a new brand of café, with its roots in the British tearoom. Four are now open at Alnmouth, Haytor, Conistonwater and Freshwater Bay, with plans to open more in the coming year. Dandelion is a place to

meet and socialise, and a place to relax whilst enjoying time in the beautiful settings of our Country Houses.

Dandelion serves a large range of triple certified coffees and a complete menu of espresso-based beverages, plus a full range of speciality leaf teas. Also available are soups, sandwiches and light bites along with locally made cakes and pastries.For more information visit www.dandelioncafe.co.uk

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10% discount!Shareholding members receive 10% discount at Dandelion Cafés on production of their membership card.

Fermain Bay GuernseyNestling in the woods above Fermain Bay, the 3-star Le Chalet Hotel makes full use of its splendid coastal location. Sea views towards the neighbouring island of Sark can be enjoyed from the elevated sun terrace and many of the 40 en-suite bedrooms. Holidays on Guernsey are Half Board with a full cooked or continental breakfast and a 3-course evening meal.Travel: The ‘with flight’ prices include a flight from Gatwick to Guernsey, however, we can also book flights from Belfast, Birmingham, Exeter, Norwich and Southampton. For maximum flexibility, the transfer to the hotel is not included – either take a taxi (allow £12), or travel by local bus (every 30 mins, cost £1).

Old Hunstanton NorfolkThe 3-star Caley Hall Hotel is located close to the beach in the beautiful village of Old Hunstanton on the Norfolk Coast. Built around a manor house dating back to 1648, the hotel has 40 en-suite bedrooms and provides a high standard of accommodation, good food and high quality service. Holidays at Caley Hall are Half Board with a full cooked or continental breakfast and a 3-course evening meal.

Partner Hotels in Britain

Kolimbari Crete, GreeceThe 4-star Grand Bay Hotel is situated in a quiet location by the beach within walking distance of the traditional Cretan village of Kolimbari. All of the 56 en-suite bedrooms have a veranda or balcony with garden or sea views. There are two outdoor swimming pools with wonderful views of the Mediterranean. Holidays on Crete are Half Board with a continental breakfast and a relaxing evening meal which can be taken in the delightful outdoor restaurant.Travel: We offer flights from Gatwick, Manchester* and Birmingham* to Chania. The coach transfer to the hotel takes 45mins. *Supplement £85

Mellieha MaltaThe friendly 4-star Hotel Solana is situated in the centre of Mellieha village, a convenient base for exploring Malta and its smaller neighbour Gozo. The hotel has 81 modern and well-equipped en-suite bedrooms, plus an attractive restaurant, indoor swimming and spa pools, and a rooftop terrace with commanding sea views. Holidays on Malta are Half Board with a continental English or buffet breakfast and 3-course evening meal.Travel: We offer flights from Heathrow and Manchester* to Malta. The coach transfer to the hotel takes 45mins.*Supplement £65

Baška Voda Dalmatian Coast, CroatiaSituated right beside the beach in the attractive harbour village of Baška Voda, the 4-star Hotel Bacchus is a modern and very comfortable base for this holiday. There are 27 en-suite bedrooms, many with superb

views of the sea or the mountains behind, plus a spa pool and sauna. Friendly staff will ensure that your visit to Croatia is both relaxing and memorable. Holidays at Baška Voda are Half Board with breakfast and good-quality 3-course evening meal which may be taken on the terrace overlooking the sea.Travel: We offer flights from Gatwick to Dubrovnik. The coach transfer to the hotel takes 3hrs.

Costa Teguise Lanzarote, SpainLocated in the resort of Costa Teguise on Lanzarote’s east coast, the 3-star Sands Beach Resort Hotel offers comfortable accommodation and extensive facilities. There are 366 spacious en-suite villa bedrooms, plus

7 outdoor swimming pools, games room, gym and tennis court. Holidays on Lanzarote are Half Board with breakfast and a 3-course evening buffet.Travel: We offer flights from Heathrow, Manchester* and Birmingham* to Arrecife. The coach transfer to the hotel takes 30mins. *Supplement £65

Partner Hotels in Europe

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Praia da Luz Algarve, PortugalThe 4-star Hotel Belavista da Luz has proved to be a popular destination for our guests due to its top notch hospitality and superb food. Set just 5 minutes’ walk from the sweeping beach at Praia da Luz, the hotel has 39

spacious en-suite bedrooms, all with a balcony or terrace overlooking the attractive swimming pools. Holidays at Praia da Luz are Half Board with an extensive breakfast buffet and a highly regarded evening meal.Travel: We offer flights from Gatwick, Manchester* and Birmingham* to Faro. The coach transfer to the hotel takes 1hr 30mins.*Supplement £75

Ölü DenizLycian Coast, TurkeyThe superb 4-star Montana Pine Resort is situated high on the hillside above Ölü Deniz with stunning views of the surrounding area. There are 159 attractive en-suite rooms, and an extensive range of facilities including three outdoor pools, bars, shop, gym and a tennis court. Holidays at Ölü Deniz are Half Board with breakfast and a 3-course evening buffet.Travel: We offer flights from Gatwick and Manchester* to Dalaman. The coach transfer to the hotel takes 1hr 20mins.

*Supplement £110

NorciaUmbria, ItalyDating from the 15th century, the 3-star Hotel Grotta Azzurra epitomises the traditional character of Umbria. Located right in the walled town of Norcia, the hotel has 46 en-suite bedrooms. Additional facilities including indoor and

outdoor swimming pools; a fitness centre and sauna are available at a partner hotel a few minutes’ walk away. Holidays at Norcia are Half Board with a continental breakfast and a superb evening meal featuring many local specialities.Travel: We offer flights from Heathrow and Manchester* to Rome. The coach transfer to the hotel takes 2hrs 30mins.*Supplement £130

Puerto de la CruzTenerife, SpainThe 4-star Hotel Parque San Antonio is a relaxing oasis from which to explore Tenerife. There are 260 en-suite bedrooms, many with a balcony overlooking the outdoor pool and flamboyant sub-tropical gardens. A 15 minute walk will take you to the centre of Puerto de la Cruz with its numerous amenities. Holidays at Tenerife are Half Board with a continental breakfast and 3-course evening buffet.Travel: We offer flights from Heathrow, Manchester* and Birmingham* to Tenerife South airport. The coach transfer to the hotel takes 1hr 30mins.

*Supplement £75

PetrovacMontenegro CoastNestling in a quiet garden just 30 metres from the beach, the 4-star Hotel Rivijera enjoys views of the mountains surrounding the charming resort of Petrovac. The hotel has 89 large en-suite bedrooms all with a balcony, a

fine restaurant serving Montenegrin dishes, garden terrace and an outdoor swimming pool. Holidays at Petrovac are Half Board with breakfast and an excellent 3-course buffet meal which can be taken on the terrace.Travel: We offer flights from Gatwick to Dubrovnik. The coach transfer to the hotel takes 2hrs 30mins.

Puerto de SóllerMallorca, SpainThe welcoming 3-star Hotel Porto Sóller occupies a splendid elevated position overlooking Puerto de Sóller. The magnificent sea views can be enjoyed from the outdoor pool, panoramic terrace and many of the 126 en-suite bedrooms, while friendly service contributes to an enjoyable stay. Holidays at Mallorca are Half Board with a continental breakfast and a 3-course evening meal.Travel: We offer flights from Heathrow and Manchester* to Palma. The coach transfer to the hotel takes 45mins.

*Supplement £85

ParisFranceHotel Comfort Cardinal is a 3-star hotel ideally situated in a quiet residential area on the Left Bank, a stone’s throw from the Latin Quarter and the city’s attractions. The hotel has 34 en-suite rooms. Holidays in Paris are Bed & Breakfast, with the hotel serving a good buffet breakfast.Travel: We offer travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord (1st class upgrade available on request). The coach transfer to the hotel takes 30mins. We also offer a flight from Manchester to Paris Charles de Gaulle (supplement on request). The metro transfer to the hotel takes 45mins and is payable locally.

Menton French RivieraThe lovingly restored 3-star Hotel Royal Westminster enjoys an enviable position right on the seaside promenade at Menton. There is an elegant lounge overlooking the garden and terrace, a small bar and games room, plus

92 comfortable en-suite bedrooms. The light and airy restaurant is well regarded locally. Holidays at Menton are Half Board with a continental breakfast and 4-course evening meal.Travel: We offer flights from Heathrow to Nice. The coach transfer to the hotel takes 45mins.

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WeidachSeefeld Valley, AustriaThe superb Hotel Kristall nestles in the peaceful hamlet of Weidach. The owners, the Pfeffer family, take great pride in providing a welcoming atmosphere and high quality service. There are 40 large en-suite bedrooms, a comfortable lounge and bar, two indoor swimming pools, a spa pool, saunas, and a pretty sun terrace. Holidays at Weidach are Half Board with an extensive buffet breakfast and splendid 5-course evening meal featuring many Tirolean specialities.Travel: We offer flights from Heathrow and Manchester* to Munich. The coach transfer to the hotel takes 2hrs 30mins.

*Supplement £45

San QuiricoSouthern Tuscany, ItalyBuilt around an original farmhouse, this attractive 3-star Hotel Albergo Palazzuolo fits seamlessly into the rolling Tuscan countryside. In the modern part of the hotel there are 39 en-suite bedrooms, many of which look out

over the gardens and outdoor pool. Local Tuscan traditions are much in evidence in the hotel restaurant, and in the architectural elegance of San Quirico’s historic walled centre, just a few minutes’ walk away. Holidays at San Quirico are Half Board with a continental breakfast and 3-course evening meal. Travel: We offer flights from Gatwick and Manchester* to Pisa. The coach transfer to the hotel takes 2hrs 30mins.*Supplement £130

SorrentoSorrento Peninsula, ItalyWith 90 en-suite bedrooms, a comfortable lounge, garden terrace and outdoor pool, the 4-star Hotel Caravel is a popular option with our guests. Located in the peaceful residential district of San Agnello, with views over the Bay of Naples, it is a five minute walk to the coast, and about a mile from the popular historic centre of Sorrento. Holidays at Sorrento are Half Board with a continental breakfast and 3-course evening meal.Travel: We offer flights from Gatwick to Naples. The coach transfer to the hotel takes 1hr 15mins.

Sarlat Dordogne, FranceSituated in tranquil countryside, just over a mile from the centre of Sarlat, the 3-star Relais de Moussidière is a delightful and relaxing place to stay. Built in a traditional style around an old manor house, it has 35 individually decorated en-suite bedrooms, a bar, dining rooms, and an attractive terrace and outdoor pool. Holidays at Sarlat are Half Board with a continental breakfast and an excellently presented evening meal featuring local dishes.Travel: We offer flights from Gatwick to Bordeaux. The coach transfer to the hotel takes 3hrs.

Vieux VillezNormandy, FranceThe charming 3-star Chateau Corneille is a small but comfortable mansion set in a quiet countryside location, only 30 minutes to Giverny and Monet’s gardens. There are 19 individual en-suite rooms, a restaurant offering regional specialities, breakfast room, bar and small lounge. The hotel has an attractive garden and grounds. Holidays at Vieux Villez are Half Board with a buffet breakfast and beautifully presented 3-course evening meal featuring local dishes.Travel: We offer travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord. The coach transfer to the hotel takes approx 1hr 30mins.

LindosRhodes, GreeceThe 4-star Mareblue Lindos Bay Resort & Spa lies directly on the beach of Lindos Bay, a couple of kilometres from the pretty 14th century town of Lindos. The 192 en-suite bedrooms have all been recently renovated and

have sea views. There is a restaurant serving ample buffet meals, several bars, a swimming pool, private beach area and a spa.Travel: We offer flights from Gatwick, Manchester* and Birmingham* to Rhodes Airport. The coach transfer to the hotel takes 1hr 30mins.

*Supplement £85

VeniceItalyLocated close to the famous Rialto Bridge, the 3-star Hotel Malibran offers a friendly welcome and a convenient location from which to explore the city. There are 35 en-suite rooms decorated in Venetian style, and a renowned

restaurant. Holidays are on a Bed & Breakfast basis.Travel: We offer flights from Gatwick to Venice. The water taxi transfer service to the hotel takes 30mins.

Stalheim Western Fjords, NorwayThe 4-star Stalheim Hotel, nestled at the top of the magnificent Naerøy Valley, has offered travellers a warm welcome for over 100 years. Part of the Historic Hotels group, it combines modern facilities with a traditional

ambience. There are 124 en-suite rooms, an excellent restaurant and breathtaking panoramic lounge. Holidays at Stalheim are Half Board with breakfast and 3-course evening meal.Travel: We offer flights from Gatwick to Bergen. The coach transfer to the hotel takes 2hrs.

In1891TALeonard,aphilanthropistinColne,Lancashire,formedawalkingclubasanantidotetothe‘busyandthoughtlessholidaysofthetime’.AccordingtoMrLeonard‘aholidayjustneededthejoyoftheopenfells,andgoodfellowship’.

In 1897 the club became the Co-operative Holiday Association, an organisation that would care for the individual and the environment. By 1913, the modern organisation we know today came into being with the establishment of a mutual Industrial & Provident Society. A society set up and run by its members, for its members to enjoy the simple delights of the countryside.

Today, HF Holidays is a fully affiliated member of Co-operatives UK and our philosophy is more relevant than ever. In a world of 24/7, where people work to live, not live to work, HF Holidays provides an escape, where people can rediscover the joys of the open air and good friends, as TA Leonard envisaged nearly 100 years ago.

Join UsHF Holidays is Britain’s leading walking and activity holiday company. We are a co-operative society, which means we reinvest any surplus we make for the benefit of all our members. You can become a shareholding member by purchasing a minimum of 100 shares of £1 each. Non-members can join our holidays by paying an associate’s fee of £5 per person per holiday.

It lasts a lifetimeAs long as you maintain a minimum of £100 worth of shares you will always gain the benefits of being an HF Holidays’ member.

Great benefits of membership

• Membership and return on investment Whilst being a member your shares may earn an annual interest, depending on financial performance (2.5% in 2010).

• Members only holiday offers Members’ exclusive offers including discounts on holidays.

• Advance booking Get the holiday you want with our advance booking service. As a member you have the opportunity to book any UK holiday ahead of non-members.

• Country House savings When you present your membership card, you will get 10% off your bar purchases, and also from most items purchased at our mini-shops. You can also get 10% off at our Dandelion Cafés.

• Regular issues of our members newsletter and e-newsletter Receive regular copies of Members News throughout the year, containing the latest news, offers and exciting new destinations.

• Celebrations Service Our Celebrations Co-ordinator is available exclusively to members; ideal for all special occasions.

• Vote for the election of Directors of the Board Help shape our future by electing the Directors of the Board – or even standing for election yourself.

• Take part in the progress of the Society Receive the Annual Report and Accounts, attend and vote at General Meetings, and be part of a friendly and welcoming community that’s dedicated to enjoying our wonderful countryside.

• Savings at Cotswold Outdoor Members receive a discount of 10% on purchases from Cotswold Outdoor.

Join us todayand be part of an ongoing adventure

Please fill in your details below stating clearly how many shares you require (minimum 100 x £1 shares) and enclose a cheque for the appropriate amount and post it back to us at the address below. Please make any cheques payable to HF Holidays Ltd.

Please use block capitals.

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Please send your completed application form to:Membership DepartmentHF HolidaysCatalyst House720 Centennial CourtCentennial ParkElstree, HertfordshireWD6 3SY

Terms and ConditionsMinimum age requirement for shareholding membership is 16 years of age.Membership is per person, joint membership is not possible.Membership is effective by taking up 100 or more £1 shares (maximum £20,000).On individual shareholdings of £100 and above, share interest will be paid annually, subject to the financial results of the previous year’s operations. Interest is calculated each year to the 31st October, after the interest rate has been approved by the Annual General Meeting and is credited in the latter part of the following March or April. Withdrawals may be arranged subject to the Rules of the Society. There is also an authority to pay up to £5,000 in any one accounting year from the share capital in order to pay withdrawals by members which cannot be met from applications for new shares. It is, therefore, usually possible to arrange repayment within a reasonable period of time.

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Responsible Tourism

Choose products with the

FAIRTRADE Markwww.fairtrade.org.uk

HereatHFHolidayswehavealwaysbeencommittedtoactingasaresponsibletouroperatorand,inour99thyearasamembershiporganisation,communityisattheheartofeverythingwedo.BringingpeopletogetherthroughmemorableexperiencesintheUKandaroundtheworldiswhatwedo.Wesupportorganisationswhoseprojectshelpsupportlocalcommunities.

We recognise that protecting the environment is one of the guiding principles for a successful and sustainable business, and that we have a corporate social responsibility to manage the impact of our activities on the local, national and global environments in which we operate.

HF Holidays currently supports a number of organisations including Air Ambulances, British Mountaineering Council, John Muir Trust, the National Trust, Mountain Rescue Teams, the BTCV (British Trust for Conservation Volunteers) and the Campaign for National Parks.

Overseas we currently support two charities:

• Nature Kenya promotes biodiversity conservation in Kenya, connecting nature and people

• Uthando is a non-profit organisation based in Cape Town supporting a broad range of grass roots, community based sustainable projects with enduring value for the most destitute and marginalised communities in South Africa

To find out more or to donate visit www.hfholidays.co.uk/responsibletourism

At each of our Country Houses you’ll find Fairtrade tea, coffee and hot chocolate. Each year we spend in the region of £75,000 on Fairtrade beverages. Through HF Holidays purchasing Fairtrade beverages we are helping to secure a better deal for producers in developing countries.

Pathways FundFor over 50 years the Pathways Fund has provided assisted holidays to those who could not otherwise afford one, and since 1998 guests have generously donated to this fund to protect the countryside where our groups walk. Last year alone we contributed almost £28,000 to countryside projects including:

• Simonside Hills footpath repairs in Northumberland National Park

• Footpath maintenance at Gleann Leac Na Muidhe and Coire Altrium on Buachaille Etive Mor in the Glen Coe Valley

• River access works in the grounds of Ilam Hall, South Peak Estate, near Dovedale

Groups are great!Friends and family. Activity clubs. Parties. Family reunions.

Group holiday specialistsHF Holidays has almost 100 years’ experience in arranging group holidays, and every year over 350 groups choose to travel with us. Whether you’re a local club in search of a venue that understands your needs, a group of friends looking for a shared holiday adventure, or a family meeting up for the first time in ages, HF Holidays is here for you.

Dedicated teamHF Holidays believes ‘groups are great’. For that reason we have a dedicated Groups team of six who will assist you from your initial enquiry right through to your return home. Our team’s experience and personal approach mean we can even tailor-make a holiday to meet your needs.

ChoiceThe choice really is yours. Choose a holiday from this brochure, or alternatively choose a Freedom Break which allows you to plan and arrange your own itinerary. We also offer walking and cycling holidays, so there’s plenty of choice for your group holiday.

Choose from one of our 17 UK Country Houses, which are situated in Britain’s best countryside locations, or from one of our partner hotels in Europe and around the world.

Here are just a few of the many activities we cater for regularly – dancing, yoga, painting, birdwatching, photography, music, bridge, walking and cycling.

Discounts for group travelBook a group of 11 or more adults and you’ll qualify for the following fantastic discounts:

• Groups of between 11-29 guests will receive 5% discount per person off the brochure price of any leisure activity, Freedom Break, walking or cycling holiday

• Groups of 30 or more guests will receive 7.5% discount per person off the brochure prices of any leisure activity, Freedom Break, walking or cycling holiday

• £50 discount voucher for the group organiser towards a future HF Holidays booking

• Save an extra 2.5% with our Return & Save scheme

It’s your group booking, why not have it your way?

For more information on group bookings call the team on 0845 470 7557, or to request a copy of our 2012 Group Holidays brochure, call the brochure hotline on 0845 470 8559.

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These conditions of booking and information in this brochure set out the terms on which you contract with HF Holidays Limited (HFH). They shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law, being subject to the jurisdiction of the Courts of England and Wales. No variation shall be of any effect unless in writing and by the authority of HF Holidays Ltd.1 You pay a depositWhen booking a holiday, you must accept on behalf of all your party the terms of these conditions of booking and pay the appropriate deposit per person for all holidays. The deposit paid in respect of each holiday is accepted as a first instalment of the charge. The receipt or banking of a deposit or the making of a provisional reservation does not imply final acceptance of the booking; neither is a verbal quotation confirmation of final cost. If a booking cannot be accepted, notification and refund of any deposit will be sent as soon as possible.If accepted a confirmation invoice will be forwarded to you normally within 2 weeks of receipt of your booking. The contract is made between us when we send this confirmation. Any money you pay to your travel agent will be held by them as your agent until we despatch our confirmation, from which point money will be held as agent for HFH. All monies paid to your travel agent for holidays by air are at all times held on behalf of HFH.2 You pay the balanceThe balance of the price must be paid before the holiday departure date.• for UK holidays (except groups and partner hotels) – 3 weeks• for overseas and group holidays – 6 weeksIf you book within the balance due period you must pay the full holiday price at the time of booking. If the balance is not paid in time we reserve the right to cancel your holiday, retain your deposit and apply cancellation charges as set in our paragraph 4.3 If you change your bookingIf after your booking has been confirmed you wish to transfer to a different holiday or departure date in this brochure, we will make every effort to satisfy your requirements provided that written notification (post, fax or email) is received at our offices from the person who made the booking, or their travel agent, not later than the date on which the balance of the original holiday price is due for payment. Alterations made within the balance due period will be regarded as a cancellation by you of the original holiday and a new booking for a different holiday, and the cancellation charges set out in paragraph 4 will apply.If after your booking has been confirmed you are unavoidably prevented from proceeding and wish to transfer your confirmed booking to another suitable person, you can do so, provided that this is not later than the day on which the balance of your holiday is due. You, as transferor of the holiday, and the transferee shall be jointly and severally liable to us for the payment of the balance due, together with all additional charges of whatever sort imposed by the suppliers providing component parts of your holiday. In all cases, you will be required to pay an administration fee of £20 per person plus appropriate holiday insurance premium, if applicable.4 If you cancel your bookingShould you, or any member of your party, be forced to cancel your holiday booking you must do so in writing and this letter must be signed by the person who made the booking.Alternatively, you may advise by email. A cancellation will take effect from the date that written notice is received at our office. All such cancellations will be subject to a charge of a percentage of the total holiday price, and the following scale indicates the maximum which will be charged in any circumstance. UK Overseas holidays & group holidays More than 56 days Deposit Deposit*More than 42 days Deposit Deposit* 42 - 22 days Deposit 50% 21 - 15 days 50% 60% 14 - 8 days 60% 80% 7 days or less 100% 100% Note: If the reason for cancellation is covered under the terms of your holiday insurance policy you may be able to reclaim these charges. Cancellation charges are exclusive of holiday insurance premiums.*And any flight payments paid at time of booking.5 Rights of admissionHF Holidays reserves the unconditional right to refuse a booking or to debar a person from a holiday in the event of conduct which in our reasonable opinion is likely to cause distress, damage or annoyance to guests, employees, property or to any third party. This includes any guest who fails to advise us of a medical condition or of a disability which prevents their full participation in a holiday programme. If we are not informed in this way we cannot be held responsible for any inconvenience or costs incurred by you and this may include our refusal to complete your holiday arrangements. Cancellation charges of 100% would apply in these circumstances. Smoking is not allowed in any HF Holidays’ owned property or on any holiday coach. If you ignore this condition, you may be asked to leave the holiday. If you or any of your party does not take up your

accommodation within 24 hours of the date of arrival shown on your confirmation, it will be offered for re-letting.6 PricesWe will not impose any surcharges after the day on which the balance of your holiday is due. If surcharges become necessary we will absorb an amount up to the first 2% (excluding insurance premiums, new taxes and any amendment charges) of any surcharges that apply. Surcharges may be imposed to cover increases in transportation costs, including the costs of fuel, dues, taxes or fees chargeable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports or airports, or the exchange rates applied to the particular package. Where a surcharge is payable, there will be an administration fee of 50p per person, together with an amount to cover agents’ commission. If this means paying more than 10% on the holiday price, you will be entitled to cancel your holiday with a full refund of all monies paid except for any premium paid to us for holiday insurance and amendment charges. Should you decide to cancel, you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on the revised confirmation invoice.7 Brochure accuracyThe information given in this brochure about departure dates, times, itineraries, accommodation, duration of flight and airlines has been carefully checked and we believe it is correct at the time of publication. We reserve the right to make changes and where they occur, they will be advised to you before the booking contract is concluded.Brochure descriptions are provided by us in good faith and every care is taken to ensure accuracy. Between brochure publication and your holiday, changes can and do occur. We feel it is right to point out that advertised facilities may be subject to change by the various suppliers concerned. There may be occasions when an advertised facility or activity is not available during your own holiday. This may be due to insufficient numbers, weather, operational or maintenance reasons. All hotel gradings are those provided by the countries concerned. We cannot guarantee that any specific leader or number of guests or leaders will be present on any holiday at any particular time. We cannot give any firm information about an airline on which you may travel until tickets are issued, and we are not in a position to state aircraft type.8 If we alter your holiday plansIf we have to alter your holiday before departure, any alteration will either be major or minor. Where an alteration is minor, we will, if practicable, advise you before departure, but we are not obliged to do so or to pay you compensation. A minor alteration is any alteration apart from a major alteration as defined below. When an alteration is a major alteration (and a major alteration is an alteration which involves changing your tour or time of departure by more than 6 hours, offering accommodation with a lower rating, or changing your resort or airport), we will advise you as soon as is reasonably possible. You will then have the choiceof accepting the alteration, taking an alternative holiday (and where this is of a lower price, we will refund the difference), or withdrawing from the contract and accepting a full refund of all monies paid. In addition, in appropriate cases, we will pay you compensation on the scale shown below (on the assumption that the full balance has been paid). UK Overseas holidays holidays

More than 56 days nil nil More than 42 nil nil days before departure 42 - 22 days nil £10 before departure 21 - 15 days £15 £15 before departure 14 - 0 days £20 £20 before departure Where, after departure, a significant proportion of the services contracted for is or cannot be provided, you will have the choice of returning to your point of departure and receiving a pro rata refund for the cost of the remainder of your holiday, or accepting alternative arrangements. In addition, if appropriate, we will pay you compensation of an amount which is reasonable taking into account all the circumstances.9 If we cancel your holidayWe make every endeavour to operate all of our holidays. If we have to cancel your holiday before the date of departure, you will have the choice of taking an alternative holiday (and where this is of a lower price we will refund the difference) or withdrawing from the contract and accepting a full refund of all monies paid. We shall not cancel a holiday or travel arrangements after the date when the payment of the balance becomes due, unless you, the guest, defaults in payment of an outstanding balance or unless it is necessary to do so as a result of force majeure. Force majeure means unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which neither we nor our suppliers could avoid, examples of which are war or threat of war, riots, civil strife, terrorist activities, industrial disputes, natural or nuclear disaster, fire or adverse weather conditions, level of water in rivers or other similar events beyond our control.

10 Travel and transportTickets for travel of any kind whatsoever, whether by land, sea or air, are issued subject to the conditions and regulations published in the timetable, books or other notices of the persons, companies or authorities undertaking such transport. There is no guarantee that flights will depart at the time specified, and we do not have any liability to you for any delay which may arise. Where such delay does arise, we will use our best endeavours to arrange for the air carrier to provide appropriate meals etc, but we ourselves will not make any such provision.11 Our responsibility(i) Where you do not suffer death or personal injury, we accept liability should any part of your holiday arrangements booked with us in the UK not be as described in the brochure and not be of a reasonable standard, and, subject to (iii), (iv) and (v) below, will pay you compensation of an amount which could be reasonably and properly expected, taking into account all the relevant circumstances. Any sums received by you from suppliers, such asfrom airlines due to the Denied Boarding Regulations 1992 (in this case sums paid by the airline constitute the full amount of your entitlement to compensation for all matters flowing from the airline’s actions) will be deducted from any sum paid to you as compensation by us.(ii) Where you suffer death or personal injury as a result of an activity forming part of your holiday arrangements booked with us before departure, we accept responsibility subject to (iii), (iv) and (v) below.(iii) We accept liability in accordance with (i) and (ii) above and subject to (iv) and (v) below except where the cause of the failure in your holiday arrangements or any death or personal injury you may suffer is not due to any fault on our part or that of our servants, agents or suppliers, and is your own fault, or arises from the actions of someone unconnected with your holiday arrangements or due to unusual or unforeseeable circumstances or events which neither we, nor our servants, agents or suppliers could have anticipated or avoided even with the exercise of all due care.(iv) Where a claim (whether for personal injury or non personal injury) arises out of loss or damage suffered during the course of air travel, rail travel, sea travel, road travel or hotelaccommodation, the amount of compensation you will receive will be limited in accordance with the provisions of any relevant International Conventions, namely the Warsaw Convention 1929 (including as amended by the Hague Protocol 1955), the BerneConvention 1961, the Athens Convention 1974, the Geneva Convention 1973 and the Paris Convention 1962.(v) It should be noted that our acceptance of liability in (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) above is conditional upon you assigning any rights to us that you may have against any of our servants, agents or suppliers which are in any way responsible for the failure of yourholiday arrangements or any death or personal injury you may suffer. Finally, it is a condition precedent of such acceptance of liability that you follow the procedures for the notification ofcomplaints set out in clause 15.(vi) Other than as set out above, and as is detailed elsewhere in these conditions of booking, we shall have no legal liability whatsoever to you for any loss, damage, personal injury or death which you suffer arising directly or indirectly from any aspect of any holiday arrangements booked with us.12 Parental responsibilityParents or guardians undertake to accept full responsibility and supervision of and for their children at all times.13 Passports, visas and healthIt is your own responsibility to check that your passport, visa or health certificate is in order. We cannot accept responsibility for any delay or expense incurred through irregularities in your documents.14 Insurance (for overseas holidays only)The person making the booking warrants that holiday insurance will be taken out by all persons named on the form.15 Our complaints procedureIf you have a complaint during your holiday you must notify our management, leader or local representative immediately and they will do their best to resolve the problem. Should it not be possible to resolve your complaint on the spot, you should write to our Elstree office. This must be received no later than 28 days after your holiday. Full details should be provided. No claim or complaint will be entertained unless you follow this procedure. All complaints that are received are thoroughly investigated and guests are kept informed. Sometimes investigations can take time, especially when awaiting a response from suppliers. We aimto settle all complaints amicably.

Conditions of booking

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Holiday information – please read carefully

Your leisure activity holidayFurther information: Further details about all our holidays, including leader profiles and daily itineraries, are available on our website: www.hfholidays.co.uk. If you have further questions, please call our Reservations team who will be happy to help.

Leaders: Our tutors and guides are all enthusiastic specialists, carefully selected to ensure that you get the most from your holiday. For operational reasons the leaders named in this brochure may be subject to change.

What to bring: After you have booked your holiday we’ll send you details of any specialist clothing or equipment that you’ll need to bring. For most outdoor holidays you will need comfortable clothing including a waterproof jacket, sturdy footwear, and a suitable rucksack for spare clothing, food and a drinks bottle.

Guests with additional needs: Some leisure activity holidays are more suitable than others for guests with physical disabilities. Please discuss any needs that you may have before booking and advise us if you require wheelchair access or you have visual, mobility or other impairments. Detailed access information for all our Country Houses is also available on our website.

Holidays in BritainAccommodationBedrooms: Due to the age and nature of our Country Houses, bedrooms can vary in size, shape and aspect. All of our bedrooms are well-equipped with a television, hairdryer, good quality towels, plus Fairtrade tea and coffee making facilities. Premium bedrooms are available at many of our Country Houses at a supplement of £5 per person per night.

Single rooms: Single rooms are available at all our Country Houses at a supplement of £8 per night (£5 if booked before 31 December 2011). Single occupancy of a twin or double room may be available at a supplement of £20 per night.

Facilities: Boot and drying rooms are available for your outdoor clothes and footwear at all our Country Houses. Where a variety of holidays are running at a House, some facilities may not be available all the time.

Arrival and departure: Your bedroom will be available from 2.30pm. Please contact the House direct if you expect to arrive after 7pm. Rooms should be vacated by 10am on the day of departure.

Meals: All meals are provided from evening meal on arrival to breakfast on day of departure. For breakfast there is a choice of continental or traditional cooked options. Then pick up your picnic lunch for the day. In the evening, a table d’hote menu is provided with

the occasional buffet. A vegetarian option is provided at each meal. If you have any other special dietary requirements, please advise us at the time of booking.

En-suite facilities: All holiday prices are inclusive of en-suite facilities. We also have a limited number of non en-suite rooms which are available at a reduction of £8 per night, subject to availability.

Travel informationHF Holidays has always been committed to acting responsibly as a tour operator. It is possible to reach all our Country Houses by public transport and we would encourage you to consider this option when travelling to your holiday. Detailed travel advice for each location isavailable on our website: www.hfholidays.co.uk. For route planning information by public transport or road throughout Great Britain visit www.transportdirect.info.

By train: For train times and to book, please call National Rail Enquiries on 08457 484950 or visit www.nationalrail.co.uk.

Station transfers: We will send you information on timings, costs and booking transfers from the station to the Country House once you have booked your holiday. Our transfer companies offer the most competitive rates and will try to ensure that guests share a taxi to reduce costs. For your return journey our House Managers will help organise shared taxis to keep costs to a minimum.

By National Express coach: A 10% discount is available to all HF Holidays’ guests by booking online through www.nationalexpress.com and quoting ‘HFHOLTEN’.

Holidays in EuropeAccommodationOur partner hotels are carefully chosen on the basis of their suitability for our guests. As we do not own this accommodation, we cannot directly control their standards or facilities; however, we work closely with each establishment and monitor all feedback from our guests. Star ratings are those of the country concerned, which again may be different from those used in the UK. If you have a problem with your accommodation it is important that you raise this at the time with your leader, hotelier or local representative, as they are in the best position to resolve the situation.

Facilities: Facilities may change depending on the time of year. If a particular facility, such as a swimming pool, is important to you, then please contact us and we will try to obtain the latest information.

Meals: Most overseas holidays are Half Board with breakfast and the evening meal included. Breakfast may be simple continental fare or a larger buffet-style meal. Picnic lunches can usually be bought from the hotel or local shops.

For dinner some hotels offer a choice of dishes; others offer a set meal. Menus are usually local in character, but some may be more international. Requests for vegetarian food or special diets should be highlighted when you book and will be passed on to the hotel and airline.

Our City Break holidays are on a Bed & Breakfast basis, allowing full flexibility.

River Cruise holidays are Full Board, starting with evening meal on arrival to breakfast on day of departure.

Single rooms: We aim to provide a number of single rooms at the lowest supplements; sometimes there are occasions where demand outstrips supply, so please book early.

Travel information Flights: For most holidays we book a

group allocation of seats on flights. When our allocation has been sold we can often book additional seats on an individual basis; however, this may result in an additional supplement or less favourable timings. Please visit our website: www.hfholidays.co.uk for the most up to date flight times and information. Holidays sold ‘with flight’ include the transfer to and from your hotel.

Connecting flights to Heathrow or Gatwick from regional airports are often available from £130 return – please ask for details.

Independent travellers – the ‘no flight’ option: For maximum flexibility, all holidays are available without a flight and you may prefer to drive to your holiday or book one of the many ‘low-cost’ flights.

Independent travellers – airport transfers: If you book a ‘no flight’ holiday then you are responsible for making all your own arrangements to the hotel. Prices for our ‘no flight’ holidays exclude the cost of the coach transfer to the resort. Further details on airport transfers are available on our website.

Independent travellers – by train: Why not take the greener and more scenic option of travelling by train to your chosen destination? It is possible to travel to many of our European resorts by train, either via Paris or Brussels. Simply book our ‘no flight’ option and see the following websites for further details: www.eurostar.com or www.seat61.com

Passports and visas: It is always the traveller’s responsibility to obtain the correct passport and visa. For British citizens with right of residence, a 10 year British passport is required for all overseas holidays.

Your health: We recommend that you read the Department of Health leaflet Health Advice for Travellers, which can be obtained from Post Offices, and obtain a European Health Insurance Card prior to your holiday.

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Travel Insurance Travel insurance is recommended to all our guests and is essential for all overseas holidays.

HF Holidays Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Global Travel Insurance Services Ltd who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. We are happy to offer to you the following insurance for UK and European Trips which is underwritten by ETI International Travel Protection (ETI) the UK branch of Europäische Reiseversicherung A.G. Munich, ERGO group Company who are approved by the Financial Services Authority to undertake insurance business in the UK.This insurance has been specifically designed so that it covers all of the holidays that we feature, protecting you in full if you have to cancel and providing you with the very best and most effective protection if you are unfortunate enough to require medical attention whilst away from home.Don’t take unnecessary risks by insuring your travel anywhere else as we cannot accept any responsibility or provide assistance if problems arise as a result of inadequate cover. We are confident that this policy is best for you.A full policy wording will be sent to you with your confirmation of booking. Full details are also available upon request.This insurance is only available to persons who are permanently resident and domiciled in the UK and is valid for travel between 1/1/2012 and 31/12/2012.For details of the insurance available for Trips outside of UK & Europe, please contact Global Travel Insurance for an application form.

INSURANCE PRODUCT SUITABILITYThis insurance is suitable for persons whose Demands and Needs are those of a traveller whose Individual round trip in the UK or Europe starts and finishes in the UK and is of no more than 90 days duration, and whose age is 90 years or less and is a permanent resident of the United Kingdom.As this description contains the Key Features of the cover provided it constitutes provision of a statement of demands and needs.If you would like more information or are unsure of any details contained herein, you should ask Global Travel Insurance Services Ltd for further advice. For Holidays in Britain up to 90 yrs Up to 4 nights - £12.50 Up to 9 nights - £19.25 Up to 17 nights - £22.50 Family up to 7 nights - £44.00 Single Parent Family up to 7 nights - £27.00 Children under 2 - FREE if travelling with an insured adult. For Holidays in Europe and the Channel Islands up to 70 yrs 71-90 yrs Up to 8 nights £31.50 £40.00 Up to 17 nights £38.00 £48.00All prices include Insurance Tax currently 20%, should this change it may affect the price of the insurance and be added to your account.

SUMMARY OF COVERCANCELLATION OR CURTAILMENT up to £3,000: If you have to cancel or cut short your trip due to illness, injury, redundancy, jury service, the police requiring you to remain at or return to your home due to serious damage to your home, you are covered against loss of travel and accommodation costs. See section headed Increased Excess for Pre Existing Medical Conditions for increased excesses applicable to claims arising from pre existing medical conditions.PERSONAL ACCIDENT up to £15,000: A cash sum for accidental injury resulting in death, loss of sight, loss of limb or permanent total disablement.MEDICAL & OTHER EXPENSES up to £5,000,000:Including 24 HOUR MEDICAL EMERGENCY SERVICE(a) The cost of hospital and other emergency medical expenses incurred abroad, including additional accommodation and repatriation expenses. Limit £250 for emergency dental treatment and £5,000 burial/cremation/transfer of remains. Limit £2,500 for transfer of remains to your home if you die in the UK. See section headed Increased Excess for Pre Existing Medical Conditions for increased excesses applicable to claims arising from pre existing medial conditions.(b) HOSPITAL BENEFIT up to £300: An additional benefit of £15 per day for each day you spend in hospital abroad as an in-patient.PERSONAL LUGGAGE, MONEY & VALUABLES up to £2,000: Covers accidental loss, theft or damage to your personal luggage subject to a limit of £200 for any one article, pair or set and an overall limit of £200 for valuables such as cameras. Jewellery, furs, etc. Luggage and valuables limited to £1500. Delayed luggage, up to £75.Money, travel tickets and travellers cheques are covered up to £500 against accidental loss or theft (cash limit £250).No cover is provided for loss or theft of unattended property, valuables or money or for loss or theft not reported to the Police within 24 hours of discovery.PASSPORT EXPENSES up to £200: If you lose your passport or it is stolen whilst abroad you are covered for additional travel and accommodation costs incurred in obtaining a replacement.DELAYED DEPARTURE up to £3,000: If your outward or return trip is delayed for more than 12 hours at the final departure point to/from UK due to adverse weather conditions, mechanical breakdown or industrial action, you are entitled to either (a) £20 for the first 12 hours and £10 for each further 12 hours delay up to a maximum of £60, or (b) the cost of the trip (up to £3,000) if you elect to cancel after 12 hours delay on the outward trip from the UK.MISSED DEPARTURE up to £500: Additional travel and accommodation

expenses incurred to enable you to reach your overseas destination if you arrive too late at your final UK outward departure point due to failure of the vehicle in which you are travelling to deliver you to the departure point caused by adverse weather, strike, industrial action, mechanical breakdown or accident to the vehicle.PERSONAL LIABILITY up to £2,000,000: Covers your legal liability for injury or damage to other people or their property, including legal expenses (subject to the laws of England and Wales).LEGAL EXPENSES up to £25,000: To enable you to pursue your rights against a third party following injury.

POLICY EXCESSES:Cancellation or Curtailment: The first £50 of each and every claim per Insured Person claimed for under this Section is excluded, increased to £100 where You are aged 66 to 75 years and to £150 where You are aged 76 to 90 years (other than in respect of claims for loss of deposit where the excess is £25).Medical and Other Expenses: The first £75 of each and every claim per Insured Person claimed for under this Section is excluded.Where You are aged 66 to 75 years the first £150 of each and every claim per Insured Person claimed for under this Section is excluded.Where You are aged 76 to 90 years the first £300 of each and every claim per Insured Person claimed for under this Section is excluded.Other Sections: An excess of £50 applies to each and every claim each insured person under the Personal Luggage Money & Valuables and Delayed Departure (b) sections, and £250 under the Personal Liability section.Increased Excess for Pre Existing Medical ConditionsThere is no need to advise us of your pre existing health conditions. Provision for the acceptance of all pre existing health conditions has been made by the application of increased excesses in the event of claims arising.For claims arising from the treatment of any pre existing illness the excess is further increased as follows –Under the Cancellation or Curtailment section - double the normal excess.Under the Medical & Other Expenses section: For persons aged 65 years or less the excess is increased to £500. For persons aged 66 to 75 years the excess is increased to £1,000. For persons aged 76 to 90 years the excess is increased to £1,500. You will also need to obtain confirmation from your GP of your fitness to travel.

Emergency Assistance:There is a 24-hour emergency assistance service included in the policy so that any insured person may seek assistance in medical emergencies whilst on holiday. Full details are contained in the policy document.

Main Health Exclusions:We will not pay for claims arising directly or indirectly from the following circumstances existing on the date of applying for this insurance:(a) Where You (or any person upon whose health the Trip depends) are undergoing tests for the presence of a medical condition receiving or on a waiting list for or have knowledge of the need for treatment at a hospital or nursing home.(b) From any terminal illness suffered by You (or any person upon whose health the Trip depends).(c) From any medical condition for which You (or any person upon whose health the Trip depends) have within 12 months prior to the date of issue of this insurance been diagnosed or have been admitted to or undergone a procedure/ intervention in a hospital.(d) From any reoccurrence of any psychiatric disorder, anxiety state and/ or depression suffered by You (or any person upon whose health the Trip depends)(e) Where You are travelling against the advice of a Medical Practitioner.(f) Where You have failed to contact the medical screening line if required to do so.

Insurance Product DisclosureCancellation RightsThe Insurer provides a Money Back Guarantee enabling you to cancel theinsurance within 14 days of issue should the policy not meet your requirements. No refund of premium is provided for cancellations after this time.ClaimsClaims are handled by Towergate Chase Parkinson who act on behalf of the Insurers and not the customer in relation to any claim. The telephone number is 0844 892 1697.General QueriesIf you have any query regarding the cover provided you must contact Global Travel Insurance on 01903 267432 for advice.Applicable LawThe law applicable to this insurance contract is English Law.ComplaintsIf you wish to register a complaint about our service please contact us in writing at the above address. If you cannot settle your complaint with us, you may be entitled to refer it to the Financial Ombudsman Service.Financial SecurityThese insurance arrangements are covered by the Financial ServicesCompensation Scheme (FSCS). You may be entitled to compensation from the scheme if we cannot meet our financial obligations although this depends on the type of business and the circumstances of the claim. Insurance advising and arranging is covered up to 90% of the claim, without any upper limit. Further information about compensation scheme arrangements is available from the FSCS.

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