The Pass
Inspirational ideas for group days out and holidays
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Escape to the south west
Escape to the south west
With plenty of history, nature and adventure to choose from, you’ll never tire of exploring south west England. Discover ancient abbeys, wild parks and magnificent landmarks.
Lundy Island offers groups a day visit or a short stay in one of their unique properties. Lundy lies off the coast of North Devon, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Bristol Channel, and is the ideal retreat from modern life. It’s a place for birdwatchers, divers, climbers, plant enthusiasts, archaeologists and geologists, or for those who simply want to enjoy its beauty and unique environment. Events for 2008 include Rocky Shore Rambles, from Easter to October, and a range of guided, wildlife and seabird walks. To find out more about Lundy Island events, you can visit their website.
01271 863636
Hidden away in the centre of the ancient market town of Glastonbury, are the ruins of what was the largest and richest Abbey in England, Glastonbury Abbey. Set amongst 36 acres of beautiful Somerset parkland and ponds, spring sees thousands of snowdrops and crocus followed later by daffodils, bluebells, wildflowers and native grasses. Then from March to October, your group could meet a character or two, perhaps a monk, a kitchen maid, Henry VIII’s Commissioner, or one of King Arthur’s Knights, who will entertain you with the history and legends of this Abbey. Groups are always welcome, with discounts available. Visit their website below for more information.
Easter treat
The Severn Valley Railway re-opens this Easter, with many things planned for 2008, from new combined excursions to boat trips and stately homes. A visit on the wild side to West Midland Safari Park is back due to popular demand, along with their combined visits to Cadbury World. The first public trains will be on Friday 21 March, when the line is officially re-opened between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth. The Engine House and Severn Valley Railway Visitor Centre will be open from then too. They also have some special events planned, and a particular favourite with groups is the 1940’s weekends at the end of June and beginning of July. Other events include the Classic Car & Bike Day in October and an annual visit by Santa during the festive period. For further information about group visits contact Lisa Meredith on the details below.
01746 862 387
In the heart of it
Bibury Trout Farm, in the heart of the beautiful Cotswold village of Bibury, is one of the oldest - founded in 1902 - and certainly the most attractive trout farms in the country. It’s primarily a working farm breeding and rearing high quality trout for restocking angling waters, and has welcomed visitors since 1965. Facilities include a quality gift shop, fish counter, delicatessen, refreshments, plant sales, picnic areas, car park and a small ‘catch your own’ fishery. Groups can see Rainbow Trout in all stages of development and see the water boil as the fish are fed. You’ll also find other wildlife on the farm amidst the beautiful surroundings. To find out more, contact them on the details below.
01285 740215/740212
Small town, big heart
Tewkesbury is known amongst its visitors as a small market town with a big heart. Picturesque streets, black and white mediaeval buildings, hidden alleyways, a wealth of independent shops ranging from antique centres to boutiques, coupled with fabulous eateries make it an ideal day out. Attractions include ‘Out of the Hat’ - the innovative and unique new centre; the magnificent Abbey; a countryside and town museum; river side walks; boat trips and heritage trails. A range of festivals and events are also planned throughout 2008. To find out more contact them on the details below.
01684 855040
Make your mark
Land’s End is one of Britain’s most magnificent landmark sites, where the cliffs stand some 200 feet above the crashing waves. The spectacular uninterrupted views that stretch across to the Longships Lighthouse and beyond the Isles of Scilly are just some of the sights your group might like to see. Other attractions include ‘The Return to the Last Labyrinth’ - an audio-visual show of myths and legends, and the ‘Doctor Who Up Close’ exhibition, which showcases many of the actual props and monsters from the popular TV series. Group rates are available for entry into the attractions, plus there is the West Country Shopping Village containing many locally sourced products. Here you can explore the site and have your picture taken at the famous Land’s End Signpost, or sit and relax in one of the restaurants. For more information call the number below or visit their website.
0871 720 0044
Be an insider
Explore-At-Bristol is one of the UK’s most exciting hands-on science centres. Their new interactive exhibition, Inside DNA, runs until 2 September, and investigates the developments in the fast-moving field of human genomics. Groups can explore issues such as the role of genes and environment in our health; identity and evolution - considering questions such as whether genetic testing will lead to discrimination; who will benefit most from genetic medicines, and the use of DNA databases.
0845 345 1235