The Pass
Inspirational ideas for group days out and holidays
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Heart and Soul
Heart and Soul
Whether it’s rolling fields, winding canals or quaint villages you’re after, the Heart of England is a welcome break - whatever the weather.
Victorian style
Rufford Abbey Country Park in Nottingham, is great for groups and certainly worth discovering if you’ve never been there before. Once a medieval monastery on the edge of Sherwood Forest, today its ruins form the picturesque backdrop to a country park. You could take a stroll in the woods to feed the swans on the lake or admire modern sculptures in the Formal Gardens. The haunted ‘Undercroft’ houses an exhibition on the life of the Cistercian monks, whilst its former stable block is now a modern craft centre. Visitors can browse in the garden shop and outdoor living store at the North end of the lake, plus gift and craft shops at the Abbey site. The Coach House café offers light snacks, and the Victorian style Savile Restaurant serves home cooked lunches and afternoon teas. The park is open 10.30am to 5pm every day except Christmas day, with free coach parking available.
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01623 821338
Big heart
Tewkesbury is a small market town with a big heart. Picturesque streets, black and white medieval buildings, hidden alleyways, a wealth of independent shops, ranging from antique centres to boutiques, coupled with fabulous eateries make it an ideal day out. With wonderful attractions including “Out of the Hat” - the innovative and unique new centre; the magnificent Abbey; countryside and town museum; river side walks; boat trips and heritage trails mean they cater for all. A range of festivals and events are planned throughout 2008. To find out more contact their team on the details below.
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01684 855040
On view
One of Oxfordshire’s top attractions is Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, with some 300 species of animals ranging from the massive white rhinoceros, to the diminutive poison dart frog. On view to the public from Easter will be a number of Morelet’s young crocodiles, hatched last October. These babies are the first to be bred in the UK. Also new in 2008 is a walk-through enclosure designed to introduce visitors to the fauna of the unique island of Madagascar. Here visitors come face-to-face with lemurs as they swing through the trees. Group rates are available for parties of 20 or more, with free coach parking and driver remuneration. You can also book lunches or teas, with waitress service in the orangery of the Manor House. Other facilities include a picnic area, a self-service restaurant, a narrow-gauge railway, and excellent access for wheelchairs to all exhibits and throughout the Park.
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01993 823006
The road to a great day out
The Heritage Motor Centre is home to the world's largest collection of historic British cars. Following a £1.7million makeover in 2007, the museum now boasts new and exciting interactive exhibitions, which uncover the story of the British motor industry from the 1890s to the present day. There’s free guided tours twice a day, an onsite café and gift shop, plus a selection of outdoor activities including a 4x4 Experience and Go-Karts. Group discounts and bespoke tours are available for pre-booked groups of 12 or more. Contact the Motor Centre on the details below for more information.
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01926 645032
Whole new world
Cadbury World has over 16 years of experience of welcoming groups of all ages. Visitors can explore Cadbury World at their own pace, with the assistance of clear signposting; and a restaurant and shop providing plenty of opportunities to meet up and re-group. Whether your group has been to Cadbury World before or not, there are many new and exciting features to discover, including Essence - where you can travel back in time to discover the secrets behind the creation of Cadbury Dairy Milk, and Purple Planet - where you can step into a state-of-the-art interactive exhibition, where you can experience chocolate like never before. They also have a new Heritage Centre, which visitors of all ages can enjoy. Groups of 15 or more can expect great savings, plus the coach driver will receive free admission. Find out more by contacting them on the number below or by visiting their website.
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0845 450 3599
Relax and unwind
Ardencote Manor is located in Warwickshire, and is a privately owned four-star hotel. It has an indoor heated swimming pool, a spa jacuzzi, sauna & steam room, outdoor hot tub with champagne bar, plus a gym, squash and tennis courts, and a golf course. Overlooking the 42-acre grounds and lake is the award-winning Lodge Restaurant, which offers a la carte dining in a relaxed environment. You can get the latest news about weekend offers for groups by calling Ardencote Manor.
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01926 843111