The Pass
Inspirational ideas for group days out and holidays
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Acres of space
Acres of space
Here we bring you a varied selection of the UK’s most beautiful and impressive gardens, with many hosting some great summer events.
The Royal Horticultural Society flower shows are amongst the most popular annual spring/summer attractions for groups. Each show has its own unique style and personality, and with fresh and exciting new show content each year, they provide the perfect day out. From the horticultural catwalk of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, to the feast of grow-your-own delights at Hampton Court Palace Flower Show, plus the hottest new design talent at RHS Flower Show at Tatton Park, there’s something for everyone. To book tickets, simply call the number below.
020 7014 8444
Sights and scents
Abbey House Gardens, in Malmesbury, Wiltshire, is one of the most exciting gardens you could visit with your group. This former monastery garden straddles the River Avon in a mediaeval town next to an historic Abbey, and is home to the UK’s largest private collection of roses. With a programme of exhibitions and events, plenty of shelter from unpleasant weather, and a huge variety of plants, it acts as a great place to shake off the winter blues and enjoy the sights and scents of spring and summer. The garden is open from 21 March to 31 October, and facilities include refreshments, disabled WC, garden tours, group discounts, coach drivers incentives, and parking at the nearby garden centre.
01666 822212
Festival fever
This year, Salisbury Cathedral will be celebrating the 750th anniversary of the consecration of the completed Cathedral in 1258. One of the exciting events to mark this occasion is the Flower Festival from 17 to 21 June. Michael Bowyer - international floral designer, demonstrator and judge - is the principal designer, with the event already attracting hundreds of volunteer flower arrangers. Groups can benefit from an exclusive ‘Meet the Designer’ package, which includes entrance to the festival, refreshments, and a talk by Michael Bowyer or one of his co-designers. Group rates start from £6.50 for 15 or more people.
01722 555 124
Wild by name...
Cotswold Wildlife Park is set in 160 acres of parkland and gardens around a listed Victorian Manor House. During a visit, groups can discover a fascinating and varied collection of mammals, birds, reptiles and invertebrates from all over the world. Recently opened is their much-anticipated exhibit, Madagascar, where you can experience a multi-species enclosure at close quarters, and discover more about the plight of endangered Madagascan and Island species throughout the world. There’s also a chance for your group to adopt an animal during their visit, which can provide a helpful contribution towards the costs of keeping and feeding the animals, and supporting their conservation breeding programmes. To find out more about the park and other ways you can help, contact them on the information below.
01993 823006
Colour delights
The beginning of the year at RHS Garden Wisley sees the garden begin to awaken from its winter sleep with the first flowers and bulbs appearing. Many varieties of snowdrops grow in the Wild Garden, while yellow and orange witch hazels and mahonia flowers bring colour and fragrances to the garden. January is also orchid time and from the 26 January to 17 February, there will be a stunning display of the Wisley orchid collection in the Glasshouse. To find out more about what RHS offers groups, contact them on the details provided below.
0845 260 9000
A little taster
At any time of the year, there is always something interesting, inspiring and different to see and do at Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Estate. Attracting approximately 300,000 visitors a year – and located four miles west of Ripon, North Yorkshire - there is a wealth of activities for groups to enjoy. They offer a number of ‘taster tours’, to introduce first-time visitors to all the different parts of the estate, as well as ‘activity tours’, which enable visitors to discover more about the parkland. You can also find out what it was like to be a monk in mediaeval times, see what varieties of flora and fauna can be found in the different seasons, and take a closer look at the deer warden’s work.
01765 643199
New year, new heights
One of the Peak District’s most popular and unique attractions, Heights of Abraham, looks set for another busy year, as they continue to build on their programme of events. Once it re-opens in February, groups can expect new exhibitions and a fresh take on their popular cavern tour. Groups of 20 or more can benefit from a discount, and there’s free entry for the Group Organiser. You’ll also find parking for coaches in the Matlock Bath Railway Station, just a hundred yards from the cable car station. The Hi Café and Summit Bar are ideal for relaxing and eating, and if your group have any specific catering requirements, their staff will be happy to talk you through all the options available, from morning coffee to their popular gourmet buffets. For more information about the Heights of Abraham, including its coffee shop, gift shops, exhibitions and amphitheatre, contact them on the details below.
01629 582365
Park life
Eastnor Castle is set in the Malvern Hills and is surrounded by a beautiful deer park, arboretum and lake, and is the home of the Hervey-Bathurst family. The deer park plays host to a range of varied events in 2008, including the Land Rover World Show from 7 to 8 June, The Big Chill Festival, from 1 to 3 August, and the Model and Hobby Show from 16 to 17 August. They also offer guided tours for groups during the day on Mondays and Tuesdays throughout the year (except between 14 July and 29 August). The cost of a guided tour is £10.00 per person, based on a minimum of 25 guests, as the castle will be opened specially for your group. To find out more about their events and group packages, contact them on the details below.
01531 633160