June has officially been termed ‘Great Outdoors Month’, so we’re shining a spotlight on some of the Group Leisure & Travel Show exhibitors who offer the most by way of outdoor activities.
We’re well into Great Outdoors Month now, and we’re having such a wonderful time enjoying the (unexpectedly) great weather and the best of the nation’s landscape that we’ve decided we don’t want it to end.
The summer months in Britain may not always promise blue skies but don’t let unruly weather stop you: it’s time to don walking boots and sun hats, grab your camera, and take your group out into the great outdoors. Be inspired by our ideas, take a few trips of your own, and don’t forget to visit the Group Leisure & Travel Show this October for even more ideas for groups who love an adventure.
Step back in time
Shakespeare’s Birth Place. (Photo credit: Visit Britain and Amy Murrel.)
For history and literature fanatics, a group day out could involve visiting Shakespeare’s England. Made up of Stratford-Upon-Avon, Royal Leamington Spa, Kenilworth, and Warwick, the region’s various attractions all have ties to The Bard, William Shakespeare. To fully make the most of the outdoors this summer, groups can visit Ragley Hall, Park and Gardens or plan an itinerary with Bespoke Stratford to learn more about the Shakespeare county and surrounding areas. Night owls, meanwhile, can explore Stratford on a walking ghost tour.
Holiday fever
A couple on a guided walking trip with HF Holidays.
Walking tour operator Ramblers Walking says: “The world’s more beautiful on foot”, and offers walking routes, trails and itineraries all across the world, from Britain, to Europe, to locations such as the Caribbean, South America and Australasia. The company offers guided walking holidays that pose as a great choice for small groups seeking a more intimate travel experience.
HF Holidays offers more local walking holidays, as well as breaks abroad. Groups taking a trip with the company in the Lake District won’t want to miss Derwent Water, also known as the ‘Queen of the Lakes’, which boasts both outdoor activities and picturesque scenery. It’s surrounded by the picture-perfect valleys of Buttermere and Borrowdale and lofty mountains, and is in close proximity to places to stop and eat and shop.
Head up north
Sherwood Forest. (Photo credit: Visit Britain and Daniel Bosworth).
A visit to Hull and East Yorkshire could be a great place for your group’s next trip. Whether walking or cycling, there is plenty to keep you riveted to what’s outside, from the Yorkshire Wolds to the city scapes of Hull. Visit the Yorkshire Coast for what is said to be the best place to see sea birds in England, at RSPB Bempton Cliffs, or spend time exploring the coves and open sandy beaches.
Alternatively, groups might consider a visit to Southport; a visit could involve attending The Southport Flower Show which has the theme ‘Curious Garden’ and is taking place between 17th and 20th August. Southport lies on the Sefton coast, nestled within plenty of nature reserves and natural dunes. You can also travel around Southport by bike or by foot, following one of the many walking and cycling routes that are available.
Newark and Sherwood is also worth considering for groups travelling further up the country, especially those with interests in architecture, history or outdoor pursuits. Why not visit Robin Hood’s hideout in Sherwood Forest or learn about Newark’s involvement in the Civil War? Meanwhile, walking trails will allow you to simply enjoy the impressive landscapes.
Countryside treasures
The Wye Valley. (Photo credit: Visit Britain).
The beautiful countryside of the Cotswolds offers a wealth for groups to do, from historic attractions, to museums, to glorious stretches of woodland and meadows. If you’re an active group, then there are plenty of walking and cycling trails to explore. For animal lovers you shouldn’t miss a visit to Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens. Through Cotswold Tourism groups can book a variety of tours and guided sessions which can be tailored to each group’s individual needs.
Buckinghamshire is a good destination for short breaks and day trips and offers great photo opportunities. Covered by the Chiltern Hills, an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Buckinghamshire is characterised by historic market towns, intriguing attractions, striking countryside, cosy pubs, and charming tea rooms.
Hertfordshire is another county with a great amount of outdoor beauty. With a number of nature reserves such as Stocker’s Lake Wood Nature Reserve and Balls Wood Nature Reserve, visits to the destination can involve long walks and wildlife spotting. There are also many parks such as Tring Park and plenty of woodland like Heartwood Forest, so you’ll never be short of fresh air in your lungs.
And the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to venture outside. The splendid landscapes and acres of woodland make for an exciting and scenic escape. There’s plenty to do from water sports on the River Wye, group activities and walking and cycling trails.
About the GLTS 2017
Several of the mentioned companies will be exhibiting at the Group Leisure & Travel Show this autumn, where you can meet representatives face to face to discuss how to make the most in group travel.
The GLTS 2017 will take place in Hall 18 at the NEC, Birmingham on Thursday 12th October, and if you register for free entry now you can take advantage of our free parking offer*.
You’ll find the simple Visitor Registration form at grouptravelshow.com/register – why wait?
Companies interested in exhibiting can telephone Sharon Yandell on 01908-613323 for more information or e-mail sharon.y@yandellmedia.com.
*Terms and conditions apply.
(Lead image: Flamborough. Photo credit VisitEngland/Visit Hull and East Yorkshire)
