We’re bang in the middle of English Tourism Week (17th to 25th March), and to mark the occasion we’re shining a spotlight on seven GLTS exhibitors to provide group travel inspiration.
Taking place each spring, English Tourism Week campaigns to raise the profile of the industry and celebrate the value and quality of tourism in the country.
Accommodation providers, attractions, tourist information centres, destinations, heritage sites and overnight stays: there’s so much to shout about and so much to choose from when it comes to what’s suitable for groups.
Take your pick from these group travel providers – and then be sure to sign up to visit the Group Leisure & Travel Show taking place on Thursday 11th October to find even more inspiration for your future adventures.
1. The World of James Herriot, Stand 421
Views of the Yorkshire Dales, accessible from The World of James Herriot.
Described as a unique experience for visitors, The World of James Herriot is a writer’s home museum attraction in Thirsk, Yorkshire. The museum covers the life of the 20th century veterinarian and author James Herriot within the Yorkshire Dales, and shines a light on the books he wrote which brought world-wide attention to the area. Groups and coach parties are welcome.
2. Cotswold Tourism, Stand 267
A typical example of a pretty Cotswold village.
This tourism body covers all the quintessentially English treats one might associate with the rolling landscapes of the Cotswolds in south-central England. Groups visiting the area can enjoy picturesque scenery, locally sourced food and drink, shopping in pretty villages, a meander through bustling market towns or simply soaking up the atmosphere at a festival or event. There’s plenty to suit all interests and it’s not a destination to be missed.
3. Belvoir Castle, Stand 325
Belvoir Castle, where groups tours can be enjoyed.
Belvoir Castle in Leicestershire is located on top of a hill and gives the Dukes of Rutland, who have occupied the building since 1067 (and visiting groups, of course) a 360 degree view across the neighbouring counties. Visit the grand rooms and galleries on a guided tour, and marvel at the works of art, tapestries and flags throughout. The Capability Brown gardens and landscapes are equally as impressive. Groups of 20 or more are welcome.
4. Norfolk Lavender, Stand 244
Learn about the distillation of lavender oil at Norfolk Lavender.
England’s premier Lavender Farm is the home of the national collection of lavender, plus herbs and roses. There’s a tearoom offering main meals and cream teas, plus gift shops and a plant sales area. Various tours are available to groups, including around the lavender distillery which can be viewed by the public. Groups can take a guided tour to learn about the distillation of lavender flowers to make oil for Norfolk Lavender’s famous perfume and toiletry range.
5. Shakespeare’s England, Stand 207
The Knot Garden in summer at New Place in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The official destination management organisation for Warwickshire also encourages tourism for Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick, Kenilworth, Leamington Spa, and the Cotswolds. Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall, New Place, and the Royal Shakespeare Company are examples of attractions that are looked after by the organisation. There are plenty of group packages available across the board.
6. Woburn Abbey & Gardens, Stand 333
A pagoda in the Woburn Abbey Gardens. (Photo credit: VisitEngland, Woburn Abbey and Woburn Safari Park).
Group discounts apply to parties of 12 or more visiting this Bedfordshire-based heritage site, and visits can be tailored to suit group requirements. Woburn offers guided tours of the abbey and/or gardens, a joint visit with Woburn Safari Park or Bletchley Park, out of hours experiences and free flow visits. This year groups can also enjoy a new exhibition celebrating the bicentennial year of landscape designer Humphry Repton’s work at the abbey.
7. Continuum Attractions, Stand 506
Views across the harbour to the Emirates Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth.
Offering a diverse portfolio of places to visit, Continuum Attractions boasts a range of choices for a group visit. Pick from the UK’s home of chocolate in the heart of Yorkshire (York’s Chocolate Story); the heights and dramatic views of the south coast from the Emirates Spinnaker Tower; the Emmerdale Studio Experience; and Oxford Castle Unlocked, plus many more. Preferential rates and group benefits will also appeal.
Exhibit at the GLTS 2018, or register to visit
The Group Leisure & Travel Show 2018 will take place on 11th October in Hall 19 at the NEC Birmingham. Companies interested in exhibiting are encouraged to contact the organising team now to discuss the best available stand positions. You can call 01908-613323 or e-mail sharon.y@yandellmedia.com for further information about exhibiting.
Group travel organisers, meanwhile, can register to visit the GLTS by clicking here. Why wait?
