We’ve got a whole host of different tourist boards exhibiting at our show this year who are happy to offer advice and destination ideas when planning your next group trip. We’ve included just a few to look out for on your visit to Marshall Arena at Stadium MK next Thursday.
Visit Buckinghamshire & The Chilterns
There’s loads to do in the county which is hosting this year’s, bigger than ever Group Leisure & Travel Show. Stretching from the banks of the Thames through to the Chiltern Hills, an area of outstanding natural beauty, Buckinghamshire & The Chilterns is famous for providing the idyllic setting of Midsomer Murders, the birthplace and home Roald Dahl and the grand Waddesdon Manor. You can also discover beautiful villages, historic market towns, the most National Trust properties in any one county and the unique Bekonscot Model Village & Railway. The team from the tourist board will be available to assist with any questions on the day.
Visit Stoke
Affectionately known as The Potteries, the tourist board will be on-hand to inspire you with Stoke-on-Trent’s rich industrial heritage which has respectfully claimed the title of World Capital of Ceramics. The city boasts many visitor centres, fascinating museums, more than 25 pottery factory shops and the exclusive Staffordshire Hoard. The region also includes Trentham Estate with its Italian Gardens, Shopping Village, Monkey Forest and mile long lake – a top spot for culture.
Visit Skipton
Described as the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, Skipton has complete variety of attractions to suit all tastes, including Skipton Castle, Raven Tree Top Adventure and Craven Museum & Gallery, that will reopen next year following a major redevelopment. The team from the popular Yorkshire destination will be happy to answer questions about the area.
Visit Portsmouth
For links to naval history, Portsmouth houses the iconic Mary Rose Museum which holds the original remains of Henry VIII’s favourite ship and the HMS Victory, the ship Nelson died on during the Battle of Trafalgar. For glorious sea views overlooking The Solent, the Emirates Spinnaker Tower offers group catering options too. There’s also a host of other attractions to see, including the LCT 7074 – one of the last surviving examples of a massive landing craft from D-Day. GTOs can find out more about the attraction which opens next summer.
Visit Ely
The historic city of Ely is full of charm and beauty and home to one of the most magnificent cathedrals in England – well-known for its stunning structure, interiors and stained glass windows. You will also find a variety of other historic attractions, a beautiful waterside and an interesting range of galleries, shops, tearooms and bustling markets on a visit to the city.
The Cotswolds
Just 90 minutes from London, the Cotswolds is a great destination for a short break or longer stay, featuring quaint towns and villages in the country, beautiful scenery and things to do. The ever-popular Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens offers a variety of group perks, as well as a range of different animals to see on a visit. The restaurant on site can even cater for large groups if booked well in advance. The former home of Sir Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace, is also another top spot for groups, opening a new exhibition about life during the 1920s from February next year.
Visit Isle of Wight
Take the short ferry crossing from a range of destinations on the south coast – including a hover craft from Portsmouth, to Britain’s popular island to discover spectacular countryside, stunning coastline, sandy beaches and a compelling mix of attractions. The Needles Landmark Attraction is a unique spot for groups on the island, not only takes visitors (who are brave enough!) down the cliff-side overlooking the infamous light house, but also housing a glass making and sweet factory on-site to show how each product is made. Other options include its historic Steam Railway, numerous animal parks and more.
You’ll find lots of brilliant ideas for your next group trip at the 2019 Group Leisure & Travel Show on Thursday 10th October at the Marshall Arena, Milton Keynes.
Register now for your free entry to this year’s exhibition.