UK & European Coach Holidays

2016

Where can I go with Roadmark in 2016?

Outer Hebrides (page 18)

Edinburgh Tattoo (page 19)

Wetheral (page 25) Ullswater (page 15) Proud to be British (page 12)

Thursford (page 28)

Liverpool (page 16) Bodelwyddan Castle (pages 4 & 22)

Bronte Country (page 22)

Llandudno (page 8)

Alvaston Hall (page 27)

Ludlow (page 6)

Potters Resort (page 3) Killarney (page 24)

Chepstow (page 27)

Tortworth Court (page 9)

Cardiff (page 20) Wells (page 11) Tiverton (page 19)

Constable Country (pages 20 & 29) Longleat (page 29)

Spring Mystery (page 12) Autumn Mystery (page 26)

Bournemouth (page 8) Torquay (page 5)

Dutch Bulbfields (page 7)

Sidmouth (page 9)

Cricket St. Thomas (page 4)

Mechelen (page 10)

Bruges (page 28) River Seine Cruise (page 17) Dordogne (page 14)

Berlin (page 11) Cologne (page 5) Boppard (page 26)

Budapest (page 21)

Portugal (page 13) Riva Del Garda (page 23)

2

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

2016 World Indoor Bowls Championships

Welcome You will see from the map opposite that we have a great range of holidays for 2016. A small company, established in 1989, we pride ourselves on arranging high quality tours to some of the most attractive and interesting areas of Britain and Europe.

at Potters Five-Star Holiday Resort

Friday 8th January for 5 days 䡲 From only £329

New Tour

Going on a Roadmark holiday is about meeting people, sharing experiences and enjoying the friendly atmosphere on board. There are new destinations to choose from and we have introduced different itineraries for some of our regular tours. We are delighted that Tony Pragnell will be escorting ‘The Great Escape’, ‘Dordogne’ and ‘By Appointment to the Crown’, all tours that he has personally planned and which are guaranteed to be full of interest. Among our continental holidays are beautiful cities like Lisbon and Budapest, and we include our first ever River Seine Cruise with CroisiEurope. Closer to home we will be going bowling at Potters in Norfolk, jaunting in Ireland and islandhopping in the Hebrides. 2016 also sees the return of the Roadmark Mystery Holiday with one in the spring and another in the autumn. These are always great fun! We hope that you will decide to join us and look forward to seeing you. Booking is easy – simply contact one of our helpful team.

Roadmark Travel p.s. There is still availability on several holidays in the remaining months of 2015 – please enquire for details ARE YOU EAGLE-EYED?

We received very favourable reports following our first visit to Potters in 2015. Now you can join the World’s Top Bowlers as they return to Potters for the 18th year of this fantastic tournament. This is the premier competition in the world bowls calendar, and only the very best players are invited to compete. ITINERARY

Somewhere within the text of this brochure we have buried an obvious mistake, an incorrect historical fact. There is a £25 Roadmark Travel Voucher waiting for the FIRST person to spot this deliberate “mistake” and tell us what it is. There is only one such error in the brochure – any others are purely accidental – and you must identify the right one to win! The name of the winner will be announced in the next brochure.

DAY 1 A taxi will collect you from home and take you to the Roadmark coach. There will be a stop for coffee at Polhill Garden Centre and for lunch in Colchester. We will reach Potters midafternoon so that you can settle into your room and discover all about the activities and entertainment provided during your four-night stay. DAYS 2-4 Potters provide a great programme of activities to keep you entertained and there are bars and lounges in which to relax with a good book or the newspaper. Bowlers will want to head to the main arena morning and afternoon to watch the top-class players in action. For those who would like to see more of the area there will be a coach excursion on one day through the Norfolk Broads to the City of Norwich. DAY 5 After a leisurely breakfast we will travel home, reaching the local area for taxis by mid-afternoon before it gets dark.

Your Holiday with Roadmark features…

£329 per person (Standard Bungalow)

£349 per person (Bungalow Plus)

£399 per person (Hotel Premier Room) Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £22.75

DRIVER

䡲 Air-conditioned touring coach with the latest safety features 䡲 On board toilet for peace of mind 䡲 Door-to-door service* 䡲 A friendly, professional and courteous driver (two drivers on most continental tours) 䡲 Dinner, bed and breakfast at all hotels (unless stated) 䡲 A programme of excursions, usually with admissions included 䡲 Reductions for National Trust members on some tours 䡲 We do not use ‘feeder’ coaches – just 2 or 3 local pick-ups and you are on your way * Door-to-door service is included within approximately 15 miles of Horsham/Washington. Please see Booking Form for details.

1A 1B

1C 1D

2A 2B

2C 2D

3A 3B

3C 3D

4A 4B

4C 4D

5A 5B

5C 5D

6A 6B

Servery

7A 7B 8A 8B

8C 8D

9A 9B

9C 9D

10A 10B

10C 10D

11A 11B

11C 11D

12A 12B

12C 12D

RA RB

RC RD

Potters Five-Star Holiday Resort Set on the coastline border of Norfolk and Suffolk, Potters is situated in Hopton-on-Sea between Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft. Potters 5-star breaks include first class entertainment every night in the Atlas Theatre and a full range of daytime activities. There is a heated indoor swimming pool with sauna, whirlpool and steam room. Other activities include snooker, pool and billiards, squash, badminton and table tennis. Beauty Treatments (available at an extra cost) provide an opportunity to relax and pamper yourself. Your break includes breakfast, lunch and dinner and the restaurant offers an excellent choice of cuisine with friendly and efficient service. There is even a midnight snack on offer if you wish. You keep the same table for the duration of your stay and you can help yourself to as much as you want, meaning you can have seconds, thirds and even fourths! All rooms have television, central heating and tea/coffee making facilities, and you can choose between a comfortable standard bungalow, a bungalow plus or a Hotel Premier Room. The price of your holiday includes daily entry to the International Arena for the World Bowls, Championships and full board from dinner on arrival to breakfast on the day of departure. Saturday night includes the Annual World Bowls Tour Awards and Gala Dinner – a star studded evening not to be missed! www.pottersholidays.com

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

3

Cricket St. Thomas ‘Drinks Inclusive’

Bodelwyddan Castle February Supersaver

Monday 18th January for 5 days

Monday 15th February for 5 days

䡲 Includes free upgrade to ‘Signature’ Rooms

With its peaceful setting in the heart of the Somerset countryside, Cricket St.Thomas has become a firm favourite with Roadmark clients. Relax and unwind after the hurly burly of Christmas with a 4-night ‘DRINKS INCLUSIVE’ break at this elegant Regency-style mansion that was frequented by Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton and provided the location for the popular sitcom ‘To The Manor Born’. ITINERARY DAY 1 Taxi pick-up from your home. Travel to Dorchester for a lunch break then continue to Cricket St.Thomas near Chard. DAYS 2, 3, 4 There will be ample time in which to enjoy all the activities and facilities on offer at Cricket St.Thomas. In the Leisure Centre you can swim in the heated indoor pool or pamper yourself with a visit to the health and beauty salon. There is a wide variety of daytime and evening entertainment with great shows, live music, dancing and a comedy act on one night. If you wish to get out and about there are beautiful walks in the grounds and we include excursions to the County Town of Taunton and Clarks Shopping Village, perfect for grabbing a bargain or two in the January sales. DAY 5 We leave after breakfast and will arrive home in Sussex before the end of the afternoon so as not to be travelling in the dark.

䡲 Just £299 per person

Warner Leisure Hotels have recently invested £6 million upgrading their country house hotel Bodelwyddan Castle in North Wales. Set in 260 acres of Victorian parkland, the imposing Castle is home to the National Portrait Gallery’s Victorian Collection. ITINERARY DAY 1 A taxi will collect you from home and bring you to the coach. We drive through the Midlands, past Chester and arrive at Bodelwyddan Castle by the end of the afternoon. DAYS 2,3,4 There is a full programme of leisure activities and entertainment at the Hotel. We include a “Scenic Snowdonia” excursion taking you through the rugged and mountainous landscape of the National Park. There will also be an optional half day visit to the National Trust’s Bodnant Garden in the Conwy Valley to see the specially designed Winter Garden and carpet of snowdrops. DAY 5 We are homeward bound after breakfast and when we reach Sussex there will be taxis waiting to take you to your door.

£329 per person Includes a complimentary upgrade to a Signature bedroom

£299 per person

For only £45 per person you can treat yourself to an Historic Room (twin/double only). These are the finest rooms in the Hotel, situated in the Mansion itself, and capture the essence of the House and the characteristics of its former residents. Each room comes with a luxury bathroom, fluffy towelling robes and either a FourPoster bed or a Sleigh-Bed for that really comfortable night’s sleep.

Based on a standard room Upgrades may be possible – enquire for details and prices £5 additional charge for entrance to Bodnant Garden payable on the day (National Trust members free) Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £22.75

Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £22.75

Your Holiday Hotel Cricket St.Thomas is an historic hotel in South Somerset set in 160 acres of lakes, cascades and gardens designed by Capability Brown. The comfortable ensuite bedrooms feature hairdryer, telephone, television and tea/coffee making facilities. Meals are taken in the elegant Tree Tops Restaurant. There is a lift to most of the rooms. Roadmark guests will have Courtyard Rooms in the main building. Each evening of your stay a great range of drinks is available free from the bar between 6pm and midnight. These include draught bitter and lager, cider, wine, spirits, vermouths and sherry, soft drinks and standard tea/coffee. Only certain brands are included – a full list is available on request. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk/hotels/cricket-st-thomas-hotel

4

Your Holiday Hotel Bodelwyddan Castle lies just a few miles inland from the coast of North Wales and less than an hour’s drive from the peaks of Snowdonia. It is not a real castle but a glorious and romantic folly, an appealing mixture of Gothic, Jacobean and Greek revival styles. A multimillion pound investment has included the opening of the new Gallery Bar and a beautiful glass atrium joining the hotel reception with Princes Hall. The Mulberry Lounge has been completely refurbished with extra seating, glass walls and natural stone finishes. Guests enjoy use of the Leisure Club with its heated indoor pool, sauna, tropicarium and spa pool. Other activities include Snooker, Tai Chi, Zumba and Table Tennis, and you can admire the Victorian portraits on display in the opulent interiors of the Castle. Bodelwyddan has a great entertainments team, with music, dancing and comedy – no two nights are ever the same! www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk/hotels/bodelwyddan-castle-hotel

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

André Rieu King of Waltz

West Country Winter Warmer

Thursday 25th February for 4 days

Monday 29th February for 5 days

© Flickr – Kathryn Yengel

New Itinerary

André Rieu is the undisputed modern day King of Waltz and packs concert venues across the globe. Join Roadmark to travel to the beautiful city of Cologne where we have reserved top-price seats in the Lanxess Indoor Arena for a sensational evening that will remain in the memory for years to come. ITINERARY DAY 1 Taxi pick-up from your home to the coach. Eurotunnel crossing then drive through France, Belgium and Germany to the 4-star Mercure Cologne City West Hotel. The Mercure is a bright, modern hotel with a swimming pool and sauna, about six miles from the City Centre. Dinner is included at the hotel this evening.

It is not often that you get a chance to go anywhere on 29th February, so why not join us for our annual WINTER WARMER? A short early season break to the English Riviera has become something of a Roadmark tradition and enables you to explore some of this beautiful part of Britain without the summer crowds. We are returning to stay at the excellent Carlton Hotel, one of the well-respected Torquay Leisure Hotels Group. ITINERARY DAY 1 Once everyone is on board we will be on our way to the West Country. After a lunch break in the attractive hilltop town of Shaftesbury we continue through rural Somerset to reach Torquay by late afternoon.

© Flickr – Ton Nolles

DAY 2 Cologne’s Cathedral is a World Heritage Site and Germany’s most popular attraction, hugely imposing with twin steeples over 500 feet tall. Your guide will explain all about the construction which lasted over 600 years! After dinner at the Hotel we will make our way to the Lanxess Arena, one of Europe’s largest, where André Rieu and the Johann Strauss Orchestra take to the stage. The Dutch maestro and violinist is famed for his sense of humour, enthusiasm and ability to wow audiences with a mix of melodies including Viennese operettas, film scores, musicals, folk songs and marches.

DAY 2 After breakfast we will set off across the Tamar to visit The Eden Project in Cornwall. Established by Sir Tim Smit in 1995, Eden has been constructed in a giant disused clay pit near St. Austell and has grown to become one of the major visitor attractions in the Southwest. Explore the largest indoor rainforest in the world housed within an amazing giant ‘Greenhouse’. DAY 3 A day at leisure to enjoy the facilities at your Hotel. The centre of Torquay is a short bus or taxi journey away and there are frequent buses to Babbacombe, Paignton and Brixham. DAY 4 Today’s coach excursion will take you to Exeter. On arrival one of the City’s smart Red Coat Guides will come on board to conduct an informative tour, providing a short history and introducing the most important landmarks. Afterwards there will be time for lunch, shopping and a visit to Exeter Cathedral, one of England’s most beautiful medieval cathedrals.

DAY 3 After a leisurely breakfast we will take you on a guided tour of Cologne to discover its long and illustrious history which stretches back to Roman times. We will visit the Chocolate Museum on the banks of the Rhine, showcasing the 3000-year culture of chocolate around the world. The highlight is a 10 feet-high Chocolate Fountain from which visitors are invited to taste. This evening we round off our per person visit to Cologne with a typical three course Sharing a twin/double room meal in an historic beer cellar, accompanied by £69 sole occupancy supplement a glass of Kölsch.

DAY 5 We make our way back along the South Coast, with a lunch break in Dorchester. On arrival in Sussex our taxis will be waiting to take you home to your door.

£349

Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £27.50 © Exeter City Council

DAY 4 Departure after breakfast. Homeward journey and Eurotunnel to the UK. Arrive midevening in Sussex for taxis to your door.

Holiday cost fully inclusive of:

£317 per person No single room supplement Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £22.75

䡲 Top Price (category 1) ticket for the André Rieu Concert 䡲 Door-to-door taxi service (within 15 mile radius of Horsham/Washington) 䡲 Return coach travel and Eurotunnel crossing 䡲 3 nights at the Mercure Cologne West (German 4-star) with buffet breakfasts 䡲 2 x 3-course evening meals in the Hotel 䡲 1 x 3-course dinner in a beer cellar with a glass of local beer 䡲 Guided coach & walking tour of Cologne including the Cathedral and Old Town 䡲 Admission and a Guided Tour at the Lindt Chocolate Museum 䡲 The services of a Roadmark Travel Tour Manager

Your Holiday Hotel The Carlton Hotel is about a ten-minute walk from the seafront, close to Torre Abbey Gardens and the Riviera Centre. There is a lift to most bedrooms, which have tea and coffee making and free Wi-Fi. Dinner is a three-course table d’hôte menu and a delicious buffet breakfast is served each morning. The Hotel is linked to the main building so that guests can easily avail themselves of all the facilities throughout the TLH resort. These include the indoor swimming pools, games area, Aztec Spa, bars, lounges and entertainment venues. Every evening there is live music and dancing. www.tlh.co.uk

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

5

Ludlow and The Shropshire Hills

© Flickr – John Clift

Monday 7th March for 5 days

The charming town of Ludlow with its spectacular castle lies in The Marches, the region flanking the England/Wales border. This early spring tour is full of interest and has been designed to blow away those winter blues. You will enjoy pleasant local excursions combined with evening activities in the historic Feathers Hotel, right in the town centre. We last ran this tour in 2014 and found it was very well received.

will be an Antiques Roadshow. Please bring along a small item of curiosity for discussion with a local antiques dealer.

© Flickr – Shropshire & Telford TSB

DAY 3 We begin today with a visit to the Secret Hills Discovery Centre, the perfect place to start our exploration of the Shropshire Hills. The exhibition includes a fascinating film panorama made from hot air balloon flights over the area. We will then take a gentle drive through Corve Dale to the town of Bridgnorth, perched high above the River Severn, where there will be time to stroll and find lunch. After dinner enjoy a local Quiz.

ITINERARY DAY 1 We drive through the Cotswolds to the Cathedral City of Worcester where there will be time to explore and find lunch. In the afternoon we continue through the charming villages and countryside of Shropshire. A welcome tea or coffee will be served on arrival while luggage is being taken to your room. After dinner we will be entertained by a local speaker who will give an introductory talk on Ludlow and the surrounding area.

DAY 4 This morning a short ride takes us to the Ludlow Food Centre where over 80% of the produce is sourced from Shropshire and the surrounding counties of Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Powys. We will have an introductory talk and tasting at The Ludlow Kitchen which features eight production areas preparing bread, cheese, meat, jams, pickles, chutneys and deli products. We return to Ludlow where you can spend the rest of the day exploring this attractive town beside the River Teme. There will be musical entertainment in the Hotel this evening. DAY 5 After breakfast we visit the Hop Pocket Craft & Garden Centre, an Aladdin’s Cave of crafts and gifts. Old agricultural buildings have been cleverly converted into a unique collection of shops, including a Farm Shop, Plant Centre, fashions, shoes, antiques, gifts and furniture. Our lunch stop today will be in the historic town of Cirencester and we will reach Sussex by late afternoon/early evening for taxis to your door.

£319 per person Sharing a twin/double/single room £59 sole occupancy supplement Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £22.75

Your Holiday Hotel Described by the New York Times as ‘the most handsome inn in the world’, the 3-star Feathers Hotel is internationally recognised for its beautiful Jacobean architecture and medieval heritage. The Feathers offers the combined atmosphere of a 17th century coaching inn with the facilities of a modern hotel to create a truly memorable experience. Situated at the heart of the ancient market town of Ludlow, there are craft and antique shops and a wealth of historic buildings all within easy walking distance. Dinner is a three-course menu with choice and includes tea or coffee. A full English breakfast is served each morning. All rooms are ensuite with bath and shower, television, telephone and tea/coffee making. The comfortable bar is the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail before or a liqueur after dinner. There is a lift, although the historic nature of the building means that there are still steps to some bedrooms. www.feathersatludlow.co.uk

6

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

© Flickr – Lukemn

DAY 2 Today we will be joined by Blue Badge Guide Penny Platts. We will travel with Penny to Hereford through some of the beautiful Black & White Villages for which the area is renowned. After time to find lunch you can choose between a short guided city walk and a visit to the Cathedral. For those that wish there will be an opportunity to see the Mappa Mundi, the famous medieval map of the world (admission not included). In the evening at the Hotel there

The Glorious Dutch Bulbfields

PASSPORT REQUIRED

Friday 1st April for 4 days

©VisitKeukenhof

New Itinerary

There are few places as beautiful as Holland in springtime, with fields of bulbs bursting into bloom, gentle waterways and windmills. A full day will be devoted to visiting Keukenhof Gardens, the so-called ‘Garden of Europe’, where over 7 million tulips, daffodils and hyacinths create a spectacular display. We will also spend a day in the capital, Amsterdam, taking in the sights and enjoying a canal cruise and visiting a diamond centre. ITINERARY DAY 1 We will make our way to Dover for the short Channel crossing with P&O Ferries. A journey of just over 200 miles through Belgium and Holland takes us to Loosdrecht which is situated approximately 20 miles to the southeast of Amsterdam. The area is well known for its beautiful lakes, the Loosdrechtse Plassen, which attract thousands of visitors every year. Our hotel is in a peaceful setting overlooking one of the lakes. DAY 2 It is about an hour on the coach to the magnificent Keukenhof Gardens at Lisse. Keukenhof, which translates as ‘Kitchen Garden’, receives over a million visitors each year and is one of the world’s largest flower gardens. It was established in 1949 by the then mayor of Lisse as somewhere for growers from all over the Netherlands to show off their hybrid flowers and it has helped Holland to become the world’s largest flower exporter. Across the 79-acre site there are a number of different gardens and garden styles to enjoy, together with 4 grand pavilions each showcasing specific varieties. Each year Keukenhof has a different theme and for 2016 it will be ‘The Golden Age’, a time when the Netherlands went through a flourishing period in the field of trade, arts and sciences, when explorers discovered the world and the tulip trade thrived. Your Holiday Hotel The Princess Hotel Loosdrecht/Amsterdam In a tranquil setting next to one of the Loosdrecht Lakes, the Princess Hotel is Dutch 4-star and obtains generally good reviews. All the bedrooms have a balcony, some with a view of the Lakes. Rooms are equipped with television, hairdryer, safe, telephone and free Wi-Fi (but not tea/coffee making). The bright and airy restaurant serves a hot & cold buffet breakfast and dinner is a 3-course buffet with a choice of 3 dishes plus tea and coffee. The Hotel has a lift. www.princesshotelloosdrecht.com

DAY 3 After breakfast we will drive to Amsterdam, a small city of romantic tree-lined canals, row upon row of bicycles, elegant gabled townhouses and historic buildings. For over 400 years Amsterdam has been famous for its diamonds and we pay a visit to Gassan Diamonds, a company established in 1945 and specialising in the import and export of raw and cut diamonds. During a guided tour we will learn about the origin of diamonds, diamond cutting and the unique Gassan 121. Amsterdam’s canals have been awarded UNESCO’s World Heritage Status, and the best way to see the main sights is by boat. We include a one and a half hour lunch cruise. Your guide will point out the main features of interest whilst cruising along the famous canals passing all of the City’s highlights and enjoying a delicious lunch with drinks on board. Before we return to the Hotel there will be some free time to explore further at your own pace and perhaps visit one of the many world class museums in the City. DAY 4 This morning you can join an optional excursion to the fascinating Flower Auction at Flora Holland (see separate panel). Alternatively enjoy a leisurely breakfast before we leave mid-morning to return to Calais for the ferry home to the UK. When we arrive in Sussex taxis will be waiting to take you to your door.

£369 per person Twin/double £55 sole occupancy supplement Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £27.50

Aalsmeer Flower Auction To round off your stay in Holland, why not visit the largest trading centre for plants and flowers in the world? You will need to get up early (we will leave at 6.30-7.00am) for the half-hour drive to Aalsmeer, where the world’s largest flower auction is run by ‘Flora Holland’ a co-operative of 5,000 growers. Experience the hustle and bustle of the auction floor, watch traders bidding against the clock, and be amazed at the vast quantity of flowers arriving from more than ten countries. From the Visitor Centre you will walk across a gallery through the auction complex. At the end of the gallery, you'll arrive at the auction halls where the flowers come before the auction clock. As you walk around, you'll find information panels which explain the auction process and the activities you'll be watching. We will spend around an hour and a half at the auction before returning to the Hotel for a late breakfast. £7.50 per person including admission. Please note that a considerable amount of walking will be required to obtain maximum enjoyment from this tour. Therefore it is not recommended for anyone with a walking difficulty or disability.

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

7

A Dorset Spring

Llandudno and Snowdonia

Sunday 10th April for 5 days New Tour

Monday 11th April for 5 days 䡲 Reduction for National Trust members

© Flickr – Dave Smith

© Flickr – JackPeasePhotography

New Tour

Although this is a new holiday, the Hotel Miramar will be familiar to many customers who have travelled on the Roadmark ‘Newcomers’ Tour’ in recent years. We feel that it is unfair to offer this beautiful hotel just to new clients and hope that both existing and new customers will enjoy this spring tour to one of the most beautiful parts of Britain.

This holiday will take you to Llandudno on the coast of North Wales, where we have found a great family run hotel offering comfortable accommodation and delicious food. The area has fantastic coastal and mountain scenery, and Llandudno positively radiates Victorian seaside charm. ITINERARY

ITINERARY DAY 1 After a taxi has collected you from home we will drive to the Harold Hillier Gardens near Romsey in Hampshire. Spring is one of the best times to visit this world famous garden and arboretum created by Sir Harold Hillier during the 1960s.Enjoy Magnolia Avenue, Spring Walk and carpets of bulbs in full bloom. After time to explore and have lunch we continue to Bournemouth, arriving at our Hotel mid-afternoon. Tea or coffee will be served while your luggage is being taken to your room. DAY 2 Today there is a choice of visits. You can spend it in Poole with its historic quayside where you will find a variety of boat trips around the harbour and across to Brownsea Island. Visit the popular Pottery with its exclusive designs and explore the town centre shops. Alternatively join our coach excursion through the Purbeck Hills to the Victorian resort of Swanage. DAY 3 After breakfast we leave for a full day excursion through the pretty Dorset countryside. Passing Blandford and the Vale of Blackmoor we arrive at Sherborne Castle. Built by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1594 the Castle reflects a glorious variety of decorative styles from over 400 years of English history. As well as the rich interiors there are 42 acres of gardens to enjoy. DAY 4 This morning we visit the little town of Wimborne Minster and take a guided tour of the Priest’s House Museum & Garden. The Museum tells the story of East Dorset and the period rooms date from a 17th century hall to a working Victorian kitchen. After time to find lunch in the town we continue to Cranborne Manor Garden. This compact but beautiful garden surrounds an ancient manor house and has modern planting with Jacobean style features. DAY 5 On the homeward journey we will be visiting Bucklers Hard on the edge of the New Forest. Situated on the banks of the Beaulieu River this well-preserved maritime village played a major role in Britain’s shipbuilding history. A 30-minute river cruise is included and there will be plenty of time to explore the re-designed Maritime Museum, Chapel, Woodland Walk and Shipwright’s Cottage.

£439 per person Single/twin/double

£95 supplement for sole occupancy of a double room Seaview double/twin rooms are available for an additional £25 per room per night, subject to availability Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £22.75

Your Holiday Hotel Roadmark has become a regular visitor to the 3-star Hotel Miramar which styles itself as ‘The Country House Hotel overlooking the Bay’. The Hotel is the epitome of an English Country House, with a façade of Roman inspired pillars and curved balconies overlooking terraces and sweeping lawns. The restaurant offers an imaginative menu, using fresh local produce. Attentive and friendly staff provide a high standard of service. There are 43 comfortable ensuite bedrooms served by a lift. www.miramar-bournemouth.com

8

DAY 1 Taxi pick-up from your home to the coach. We drive through the Midlands then pass Chester and travel along the coast to arrive in Llandudno by late afternoon. DAY 2 We drive across the Britannia Bridge to the Isle of Anglesey for a visit to Plas Newydd House & Gardens. This fine 18th-century mansion sits on the shores of the Menai Strait with breathtaking views of Snowdonia. At the heart of the 1930s interior of the Marquess of Anglesey’s ancestral family home is a 58-feet long fantasy landscape mural by Rex Whistler. DAY 3 A free day in which to relax at the Hotel and take a stroll in the Town. If the weather is favourable you can take the Tramway or Britain’s longest cable-car ride to the top of the Great Orme to enjoy the spectacular views across the Irish Sea. This afternoon you might like to head to the North Wales Theatre for a performance of the musical comedy ‘Hairspray’ (see below). DAY 4 Today you will enjoy an excursion through the Snowdonia National Park. We will visit Betws-Y-Coed with its pretty shops and tea rooms. Continuing past the slate quarries of Blaenau Ffestiniog we descend to the sea at Porthmadog where there will be time for lunch. In the afternoon there will be stunning views of the mountains as we drive in the foothills of Snowdon and through the dramatic Pass of Llanberis before returning along the coast to Llandudno. DAY 5 After breakfast we will say farewell to our hosts at the Merrion and travel home. We stop to visit Erddig Hall, one of the most complete country houses in Britain. Imposing staterooms display 18th and 19th century furniture whilst outside you can enjoy the walled Garden and splendid Victorian Parterre. We continue to Sussex, arriving for early evening taxis.

*HAIRSPRAY Llandudno is the home of Theatre Cymru and the smash hit musical comedy ‘HAIRSPRAY’ will be performed there during our stay. There is a matinee on Wednesday afternoon – please let us know if you are interested in going to the Show? Tickets will be in the region of £25-£30

£449 per person No single supplement Reduction of £20 for National Trust members Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £22.75

Your Holiday Hotel The family-owned 3-star Merrion Hotel is located on Llandudno’s famous seafront promenade. The Merrion has a reputation for being warm, friendly and comfortable, and receives very favourable reviews. There are 65 bedrooms served by a lift. The ensuite bedrooms have television, hairdryer and hot drink making facilities. Most of the bathrooms have a shower over the bath. There is level access to the Hotel and all the public areas. Breakfast is a cold buffet followed by hot served and the evening meal is table d’hôte. Much of the food is sourced and bought locally. www.merrion-hotel.com

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

Sidmouth in the Spring

Spring at Tortworth Court

Cream Tea included

Sunday 24th April for 5 days

Saturday 16th April for 6 days

䡲 Reduction for National Trust members

䡲 Reduction for National Trust members

New Itinerary

© Flickr – Charlie Brewer

© Flickr – Gideon Chilton

New Itinerary

It is easy to see why Sidmouth is such a popular destination for Roadmark clients. Nestled between the majestic red cliffs of Peak and Salcombe Hills, and the green hills of the Sid Valley, the little seaside town possesses a unique charm and calm restful atmosphere. ITINERARY DAY 1 After joining your holiday coach we make our way to Sidmouth, stopping to visit Kingston Lacy in Dorset. Home of the Bankes family for more than 300 years, this striking 17th-century house is noted for its lavish interiors. DAYS 2-5 You will have plenty of time to explore Sidmouth and use your included voucher for the best Cream Tea in Town. Additionally we include two coach excursions. One will take you along the spectacular Jurassic Coast to Abbotsbury Sub Tropical Gardens which Alan Titchmarsh described as ‘One of the finest Gardens I have ever visited’. The other heads in the opposite direction to Exmouth for a cruise on the calm and sheltered waters of the River Exe, one of the country’s top rivers for wildlife. FINAL DAY After breakfast we drive to Stourhead in Wiltshire. This world-famous landscape garden first opened in the 1740s and has as its centrepiece a magnificent lake reflecting classical temples, mystical grottoes and rare and exotic trees. Stourhead inspired the famous landscaper ‘Capability’ Brown, providing the model for many great English gardens. This afternoon we make our way home to Sussex where taxis will be waiting for us.

No single supplement

ITINERARY DAY 1 Taxi pick up from your home to the coach. We drive to the Wiltshire town of Marlborough for a lunch stop, then on through the Gloucestershire Cotswolds to reach Tortworth Court in time to take a stroll around the grounds before dinner. DAY 2 This morning we drive to Berkeley Castle & Gardens, ancient fortress home of the Berkeley Family. Standing in a deer park overlooking the Severn Estuary, it is probably England’s oldest lived-in castle. A guided tour is included. Later we will visit WWT Slimbridge, the wetland reserve founded by Sir Peter Scott in 1946. A great opportunity to get close to wetland creatures including otters and some of the world’s most spectacular ducks, geese, swans and flamingos. DAY 3 Today we will cross the Severn Bridge into Wales. Dewstow Gardens were built around 1895 but lay abandoned for many years until being rediscovered in 2000. There are ponds, underground grottoes, ferneries and rock gardens to explore and our visit includes a sandwich lunch. This afternoon sit back and enjoy the scenery as we take a scenic drive through the Forest Of Dean and along the incredibly beautiful Wye Valley. DAY 4 We will spend the day visiting the National Trust’s Tyntesfield Estate. The House charts the fascinating history of the Gibbs family through their collection of more than 50,000 objects. The extensive garden has flower-filled terraces and champion trees, as well as a productive walled kitchen garden. DAY 5 Home today, stopping to visit another fine National Trust property, Lacock Abbey. Once a medieval nunnery, the Abbey sits at the heart of a charming village surrounded by informal woodland and gardens. Lacock is the birthplace of photography and a popular film location. During the afternoon we return to Sussex for taxis home.

Reduction of £25 for National Trust members

£439 per person

Emerald Insurance £23.75

Sharing a twin/double room Supplement for sole occupancy £80

Your Holiday Hotel The Royal York & Faulkner Hotel has been run by the Hook family, resident proprietors, for over seventy years. It offers comfortable accommodation in a magnificent Regency building at the centre of the Esplanade, and the food is highly thought of. Bedrooms differ in style and décor and feature TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The Hotel has two lifts. There are comfortable lounges and bar meals are available at lunchtimes. www.royalyorkhotel.co.uk

Please note: Another well-known local coach operator is offering 5-day holidays to the Royal York & Faulkner in June & September 2016 for exactly the same cost as our 6-day tour – with no Cream Tea!

Reduction of £22 for National Trust members Emerald Insurance £22.75

© Flickr – RayMorris1

© Flickr – dorsetforyou.com

£513 per person

Our last visit to Tortworth Court in rural Gloucestershire was in the autumn of 2014, so we thought it would a good idea to stay in April when the extensive grounds of this imposing Grade II Victorian listed mansion will be full of spring colour.

Your Holiday Hotel Tortworth Court Hotel is situated in on the edge of the Cotswolds in 30 acres of parkland. The Hotel exudes elegance and character, having been totally restored to its former glory following a major fire in 1991. Dining will be in the main restaurant with a good menu choice. Bedrooms will be in the newer Courtyard part of the Hotel and, although there is no lift, ground floor rooms can be booked on request. There is a heated indoor swimming pool with sauna, steam room and spa bath. www.tortworth-court-hotel.four-pillars.co.uk

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

9

HISTORIC CITIES OF FLANDERS

䡲 includes The Floralies of Ghent &

The Hanswijk Parade

PASSPORT REQUIRED

Often overlooked by tour operators, Flanders is packed with historic towns and cities. This short tour will take you to three of them. Our base is Mechelen, one of Flanders’ real gems. It is a well kept secret that Mechelen boasts 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites and almost as many classified monuments and buildings as Bruges. Also included is a day in Ghent to enjoy the amazing Floralies Exhibition held once every five years. ITINERARY DAY 1 A taxi will collect you from home and bring you to the coach to join your driver and fellow passengers. We will make our way to Dover for the short sea crossing then drive through France and Belgium to arrive in Mechelen by late afternoon. Dinner is included at our Hotel this evening. DAY 2 The Novotel serves a hot buffet breakfast, after which we depart for Ghent. Our visit coincides with The Floralies, a wonderful show staged every five years. Exhibitors from the four corners of the globe gather together in Ghent to display their horticultural and botanical wonders. The exciting plant and floral festival, admission to which is included, takes place across four sites in the artistic quarter of the city, each site with its own theme. Flemish floral artists are world renowned for their innovation, talent and passion and at Floralies you will be able to enjoy their amazing creations, all to be seen within the historical setting of this enchanting city. Dinner is included at our Hotel this evening.

ship carrying supplies ran aground and all efforts to relaunch it failed – that is until a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary was taken off the boat and placed on shore. And suddenly the vessel was afloat! The grateful citizens decided to pay homage by staging the Hanswijk Procession, an annual tradition that continues to this day. The 90-minute long procession through the medieval streets is an elaborate affair, with more than 2000 participants, 100 horses, 20 chariots, dozens of musicians, choirs and dancing groups. So that you can watch in comfort we include a seat in one of the stands (subject to availability). Mechelen is a fascinating city to explore, with an impressive cathedral, churches, museums and a brewery. There is a good choice of restaurants and pavement cafes – dinner is not included at the Hotel today.

© Flickr - Sint -Katelijne-Waver

Friday 29th April for 4 days

DAY 4 On today’s homeward journey we will be visiting Bruges, often known as ‘The Venice of the North’. One of the finest preserved medieval cities in Europe, Bruges is filled with canals and atmospheric cobbled streets. Take per person a canal cruise, drool at the windows of the chocolate shops filled with mouth-watering Sharing a twin/double room specialties, or purchase some fine quality lace Sole occupancy supplement £65 as a souvenir of your holiday. We return to Deposit £75 Calais for a ferry to the UK and continue to Sussex to meet the waiting taxis. Emerald Insurance £27.50

£369

Your Holiday Hotel The Novotel Centre is a modern 4-star hotel in the centre of Mechelen in the lively fish market area, beside the River Dyle and a short walk from the market square. It has 122 guest bedrooms all with private facilities, free Wi-Fi, telephone, television, tea/coffee maker and air conditioning. As is typical with Novotel, rooms normally have a double bed and a bed-settee which is made up when the room is used for twin occupancy. The Hotel has a lobby bar, a restaurant, lift and fitness area. www.novotel.com

10

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

© Flickr - romain chaffin

DAY 3 A day at leisure in Mechelen. But it is a very special day for the historic city as you will be able to witness an historic event with a fascinating history dating back to 988. In that year a

The Great Escape With Tony Pragnell

Wonderful Wells PASSPORT REQUIRED

Monday 16th May for 5 days

Sunday 15th May for 10 days

New Tour

© Flickr – Gary Ullah

䡲 Berlin 䡲 Dresden 䡲 Meissen 䡲 Potsdam 䡲 Colditz

We are delighted that Tony Pragnell has arranged, and will be accompanying, another GREAT ESCAPE to Germany in 2016. The itinerary is packed with interesting visits and the tour will be enhanced by Tony’s customary flair, knowledge and enthusiasm. ITINERARY BERLIN Vibrant new-look Berlin now has glitz and cafe society, but history never goes away. We have a guided tour, and leisure time either side of the old borders of East and West. The next day our coach takes us into the centre, leaving us to explore at our own pace, Check-point Charlie, Unter den Linden, Brandenburg Gate, Cathedral, the Reichstag, Potzdammer Platz, Holocaust Memorial, and a host of museums on Museum Island. DRESDEN After wartime devastation, Dresden is now restored as the beautiful capital of Saxony. This captivating city created by King Augustus the Strong is clustered by the riverbank, dramatic yet compact, the sights are within a stroll of our hotel... Church of our Lady, Zwinger Palace, Semper Opera House, Royal Palace, Elbe cruises and more. INCLUDED VISITS An enlightening tour of the infamous Colditz Castle and Escape Museum! A visit to Mohne Dam, scene of the Dambusters' raid.

This will be Roadmark’s first stay in the small city of Wells, which takes its name from the springs situated in the gardens of the Bishop’s Palace. Wells sits on the edge of the Mendip Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in what is widely recognised as one of England’s most attractive natural landscapes. ITINERARY DAY 1 We begin the holiday with a visit to Longleat, country seat of the Marquess of Bath and one of Britain’s finest stately homes. The House is set in 900 acres of ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped parkland. Admission to The House and Gardens is included. On arrival at the Swan Hotel porters will take your luggage to your room and a welcome glass of Bucks Fizz will be served before dinner. DAY 2 We will be joined by a Local Guide for a fascinating excursion through the Mendip Hills and Somerset Levels. Our route will include the famous Cheddar Gorge and a stop in Glastonbury to visit one of England’s earliest and most important abbeys. DAY 3 The Swan Hotel is immediately opposite Wells Cathedral. Built between 1175 and 1490 it is often described as ‘the most poetic of the English cathedrals’. As well as its iconic West Front, the Cathedral boasts the Wells Clock which is believed to have the second oldest mechanism in Britain. Our guided tour will include the interior of the Cathedral, the grounds and Vicars’ Close, Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited street. This afternoon is free to explore Wells at your own pace and perhaps visit the moated Bishop’s Palace. DAY 4 Today we take a short drive to Shepton Mallet to visit Kilver Court Secret Gardens. The Gardens were created over 100 years ago by Ernest Jardine, an industrialist who wanted to provide better conditions for his workforce. Hidden under lock and key until quite recently, the 3-acre Gardens are set in a beautifully restored textile mill with spring colour from rhododendrons, camellias and azaleas.

The lovely little city of Meissen, with a tour of the factory and galleries of Meissen Porcelain.

DAY 5 We set off after breakfast and travel to Salisbury for a lunch stop before continuing home to Sussex, arriving for taxis late afternoon.

An historic paddle-steamer cruise on the Elbe, and a day exploring Potsdam with a visit to Sans Souci Gardens as well as Cecilienhof Palace where the allied powers held the Potsdam conference. We even take you for a stroll over infamous Glienecke Bridge where spies were exchanged during the cold war. EXCELLENT FOUR-STAR HOTELS

You can of course dine independently in our hotel on those evenings if you prefer.

£449 per person

£899 per person

© Kilver Court Gardens

Buffet breakfasts are included throughout the holiday. Dinner is included on all our evenings except one in Dresden, and one in Berlin/Potsdam, kept free for guests to stroll out and enjoy the atmosphere and local restaurants.

Sharing a twin/double room Sole occupancy supplement £179 Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £42.50

Your Holiday Hotel Hotel Dorint Sanssouci Berlin/Potsdam Four nights here, chosen for its peaceful setting on the fringe of Berlin among the parkland and palaces of Potsdam, a charming, historic area. Dorint Hotel Dresden Three nights in the city centre, ideally located for the historic Aldstadt and all the sights. Maritim Hotel Gelsenkirchen One night on our outward journey and again on our return. A FULLY DETAILED ITINERARY IS AVAILABLE ON REQUEST

Sharing a twin/double room £74 single supplement Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £22.75

Your Holiday Hotel A former coaching inn, the 3-star Best Western Plus Swan Hotel is a beautiful old building, nearly 600 years old, set in the heart of historic Wells. The Swan oozes character inside and out and is situated in a narrow street just footsteps from the Cathedral and the shops. In keeping with the traditional style of the Hotel its bedrooms are elegantly furnished. There is complimentary WiFi, TV and radio, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. There is no lift and, due to the historic nature of the building, there are steps both within the Hotel and in some of the bedrooms. www.swanhotelwells.co.uk

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

11

Spring Mystery Holiday

Proud To Be British – Part IV

Monday 23rd May for 4 days

Monday 20th June for 6 days

䡲 From £299 per person

New Hotel

New Tour

© Flickr – Rictor Norton & David Allen

Dust off your Union Jack and join Mark for the latest instalment of ‘Proud to be British’. Following successful visits to the Midlands and Northwest this new tour will be exploring some of our finest and most significant achievements in Science, Industry and Engineering in the Northeast of England. The Mystery Holiday is back and we have discovered a super new hotel! Over the past 20 years or so hundreds of Roadmark customers have enjoyed the fun of travelling in a friendly group to an unknown destination. Trying to guess where you are going is all part of the mystery, and the results can sometimes be hilarious as your driver attempts to ‘put you off the scent’. Whilst we cannot give too much away here are a few clues…….. ITINERARY DAY 1 A Roadmark taxi will collect you from home and bring you to the coach. Join your driver and fellow passengers, all of whom will be scratching their heads and asking ‘where do you think we are going?’ There will be plenty of time to ponder on this during the journey and you will probably change your mind several times before we reach our final destination. This evening at dinner we will present a bottle of ‘bubbly’ to the person whose guess was the closest. DAY 2 ??? – No clues today. This evening there will be a talk on the local history of the area. DAY 3 ??? – No clues today. This evening there will be a Quiz to find out just how much you have been paying attention to the driver! DAY 4 The journey home takes us through more beautiful countryside. Arrival in Sussex for late afternoon taxis to your door. Bonus clue 1: During the tour we will be visiting a grade 1 listed house (not National Trust) with 30 acres of attractive gardens and an arboretum. Bonus clue 2: You may well be visiting a seaside resort so feel free to bring your swimming costume and bucket & spade. The only way to discover more is to join us on May 23rd!

£299 per person Sharing a twin/double room £45 sole occupancy supplement

“PROUD TO BE BRITISH” WILL INCLUDE VISITS TO:

CRAGSIDE This extraordinary Country House in Northumberland (NT) was the home of the Lord Armstrong, Victorian inventor, innovator and landscape genius. The world’s first house to be lit by hydroelectricity, it is crammed full of ingenious gadgets. It also has one of the largest rock gardens in Europe. THE ALNWICK GARDEN An ambitious 21st century garden created by the Duchess of Northumberland. There is so much to see; the Cherry Orchard, Bamboo Labyrinth, Grand Cascade and water sculpture and the intriguing Poison Garden. BEAMISH The famous working museum which recreates how people lived and worked in North East England in the 1820s through to the 1940s. Discover how the Industrial Revolution transformed agricultural life in the region and see the costumed characters bring to life the Town, Pit Village, Home Farm and Pockerley Old Hall. THE CITY OF DURHAM With time to explore the Cathedral, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s greatest medieval buildings. NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM Shildon Also known as ‘Locomotion’, the Museum has an important collection of historical engines and rolling stock as well as more modern inventions such as the APT Tilting Train, which was not a great success! FULL DAY BLUE BADGE GUIDED TOUR A local guide will take us to The Angel of the North, Newcastle/Gateshead, city of great buildings, public monuments and famous bridges spanning the River Tyne, and the Durham Heritage Coast. MIDDLESBOROUGH TRANSPORTER BRIDGE The Tees Transporter Bridge was opened in 1911 and is one of only three such structures remaining in Britain. Whilst it is possible to take a bungee jump from the bridge we will limit ourselves to the Visitor Centre and take a ride in the newly opened scenic elevator. HARTLEPOOL’S MARITIME EXPERIENCE Hartlepool was an important naval seaport and the Historic Quayside has a range of period shops and buildings with costumed guides. It is home to HMS Trincomalee, the oldest British warship still afloat. Please note that it will be necessary to have good walking ability in order to gain maximum enjoyment from this holiday. Not suitable for anyone with a disability or walking difficulty.

£525 per person

Sharing a twin/double room Sole occupancy supplement £113 Reduction of £13 for National Trust members

Deposit £75

Deposit £75

Emerald Insurance £21

Emerald Insurance £23.75

Your Mystery Holiday Hotel 䡲 is a 3-star hotel in a rural setting overlooking rolling countryside 䡲 is family-owned 䡲 is a new hotel for Roadmark 䡲 has 39 spacious, air-conditioned bedrooms 䡲 has a lift 䡲 has ‘Royal’ connections The bedrooms are well equipped with tea/coffee making, hairdryer and complimentary Wi-Fi.

12

䡲 Over £50 worth of admissions included! 䡲 Reduction for National Trust Members

Your Holiday Hotel The 3-star Best Western Whitworth Hall is a country house hotel near Spennymoor in County Durham. It is set in a picturesque deer park, with elegant formal gardens and ornamental lake. There are just 29 traditionally furnished bedrooms so we will almost certainly have exclusive use of the Hotel. Facilities include free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee maker and hairdryer. Bathrooms all have shower over the bath (no walk-in showers). There is no lift and even the ground floor bedrooms are not completely step-free. There is a cosy bar and a conservatory lounge leading to an outside terrace, perfect for a pre-dinner drink. www.bw-whitworthhall.co.uk

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

PORTUGAL’S GREAT CITIES… Lisbon and Porto

PASSPORT REQUIRED

Sunday 5th June for 10 days New Tour

In Roadmark’s 27-year history this will be only our second tour to Portugal. Crossing with Brittany Ferries to Santander we travel through Spain to Portugal’s historic capital city of Lisbon for a 3-night stay. We then continue to Porto with its attractive old town and port wine houses. As well as providing a great introduction to Portugal’s two foremost cities, the holiday will show you the rugged landscape of Northern Spain which is surprisingly attractive.

DAY 5 Today we drive to Sintra to visit the Palacio Da Pena (The Feather Palace). Perched on a hilltop above the romantic town of Sintra, the Palace is a protected national monument and is considered to be one of the world’s best examples of 19th-century Romantic architecture. It is recognised as one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal and in 2007 was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will be amazed at this flamboyant complex that was commissioned by an artistic king who wished his building to represent that of an opera. Each section of the exterior is individually styled with vivid colours and fine stone carvings. DAY 6 We depart Lisbon after breakfast and drive north to the city of Coimbra for a lunch stop. The medieval capital of Portugal for over a hundred years, and the site of Europe’s oldest university, Coimbra has a wealth of ancient churches and narrow streets. We continue to Porto where our Hotel for two nights is the Mercure Oporto Centre. The 4-star Hotel occupies an elevated position in the centre of Porto and has 145 air-conditioned guest bedrooms with tea/coffee making facilities. DAY 7 This morning we will be joined by a local guide for a tour of the city that is the historic home of the port wine trade. We will pass steep winding streets, stately bridges, historic buildings and the houses of wealthy merchants. Included in the tour is a visit to a port house (with a tasting of course!) in the famous Gaia area overlooking the River Douro. This afternoon relax and enjoy a cruise on the Douro to see the six bridges that join Porto with Gaia. DAY 8 We leave Porto and travel past Guimaraes and over the Spanish border. Tonight we will stay at the Hotel Rey Sancho in Palencia with dinner and breakfast included.

ITINERARY DAY 1 A taxi will collect you from home and bring you to the coach. We drive to Plymouth and join the overnight ferry sailing to Santander, crossing time about 20 hours. Your cabin will have twin lower berths (no bunk beds) and private facilities. Brittany Ferries offer a high standard of accommodation and dining, with an à la carte restaurant, lounge bar and entertainment areas. DAY 2 Arrive Santander early afternoon. A drive of approximately four and a half hours brings us to our overnight stop at the Exe Hall Apartahotel in Salamanca, with dinner and breakfast included. DAY 3 This morning we continue south through Spain for a lunch stop in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cáceres. It is a magical, medieval walled city with fortified houses, a cathedral, churches and statues. This afternoon we arrive in Lisbon for a three-night stay at the Mercure Hotel. The stylish 4-star Mercure has a heated rooftop swimming pool with panoramic views. Its spacious air-conditioned rooms have smart bathrooms, hairdryer and tea/coffee maker. Water and wine are included with dinner each evening.

DAY 9 There will be some wild and rugged scenery today as we travel north. Climbing over the Puerto Pozazal at around 3000 feet we descend to the coastal plain of Cantabria and take a short detour to drive along the shore of per person the Ebro Reservoir. This huge man-made lake Sharing a twin/double room and was built by Franco in 1945 and the remains inside cabin with lower berths of 9 villages lie beneath its waters. We reach Santander early afternoon and board our ferry Supplement for sole room & cabin back to the UK. occupancy £195

£899

DAY 10 Arrive Portsmouth and back to Sussex, reaching the local area by the end of the afternoon.

Supplement for twin outside cabin £26 per person Emerald Insurance £42.50

DAY 4 We begin the day with a guided walking tour of Lisbon. The guide will introduce the heart of both the old and new Lisbon. From Rossio Square you will discover how the city was destroyed by a massive earthquake in the 18th century and then totally rebuilt. See the intricate architecture of the old Central Station and learn about the Carnation Revolution of 1974. Walk through the elegant neighbourhood of Chiado and the old Moorish quarter of Alfama. Afterwards there will be time to explore further at your own pace, try the famous Pastel de Natta and enjoy lunch in one of the many tapas bars. Important note: Our itinerary has been planned using the 2015 Brittany Ferries schedule. Once their timetable for 2016 has been published we will be able to confirm the ferry route and timings. Please note that meals on board ship are not included in the holiday price. Even more important note: In order to gain maximum enjoyment from this tour a good walking ability will be required. It is, therefore, unsuitable for anyone who has a walking difficulty or disability.

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

13

The Dordogne with Tony Pragnell

䡲 River trip, chateaux, museum, gardens

etc. Admissions and visits totalling around £50 all priced-in!

“The Perigord Noir”

䡲 Breakfasts and three-course set-menu

dinners included every evening, with wine and coffee

Saturday 18th June for 9 days

PASSPORT REQUIRED

Tony Pragnell has done it again! Join him to see the sights and taste the delights of Perigord Noir, the most picturesque part of the Dordogne. When we last visited the region in 2014 it was an eight-day tour but we have added an extra day, discovered a super family-owned hotel and improved the itinerary. The perfect location at Vitrac. Easy days, low mileage; with all the top visits nearby. The highlights flow faster than the Dordogne River! Dark forests of oak from which the Perigord Noir derives its name, towering chateaux, bastide hilltop towns, walnut trees, sunflowers, tobacco fields, traditional cuisine, confit de canard, magret de canard, black truffles, cassoulet, cepes, pink garlic, and of course the prized foie gras with wines from the Bergerac vineyards. Evenings with a real Perigord flavour!

Saturday 18th June Taxis from home to the coach. Eurotunnel crossing and then south, beyond Paris. We stay at the 4-star Best Western Hotel Les Terrasses de Montargis. Dinner included. Sunday 19th June Breakfast at our hotel. Travel to the tiny village of Vitrac in the Dordogne. Six nights at Hotel Le Clos Roussillon. Dinner at a nearby Auberge is included every evening. Monday 20th June A later start, with a short drive to Le Roque Gageac, a picturesque village sitting right on the river, with homes and even cave dwellings clustered together beneath a huge overhanging cliff. Then through the countryside to Domme, a honey-coloured, walled town, draped over a craggy hill. Great views of the Dordogne and the landscape of Perigord Noir. Little shops of arty stuff and classy local goodies line the flower-decked lanes, as well as pretty cafes ideal for lunch. Down at river level this afternoon, a Dordogne cruise on a traditional style gabarre trading ship. Tuesday 21st June A morning exploring Chateau de Beynac, a mighty fortress that brings alive the feudal history of the Dordogne. Panoramic views from the battlements, the river, two other castles and far beyond. Lunchtime in Beynac, and then a leafy riverside route to Le Chateau des Milandes, once the home of Josephine Baker. Follies Bergere dancer, entertainer, her Rainbow children and Resistance work. Revered in France, her moving story is told within this elegant chateau. Wednesday 22nd June Morning in Sarlat-la-Caneda, wonderfully preserved, with narrow streets, restored gothic and renaissance houses, with classy boutique shops and cafes in Sarlat's delightful lanes. It is the jewel of the Dordogne, at the centre of The Perigord Noir. Our visit will be on market day, renowned for its array of a glorious local produce. We leave after lunch for a leisurely afternoon at our hotel, perhaps a swim in the pool. Or take a stroll into Vitrac, to the cafe alongside the Dordogne.

The Dordogne trend is to dine out. There are very few quality hotels, even fewer with restaurants. However, we like to include evening dinner so that you don't need to go searching and spending. And there is a super solution. Our hotel has an arrangement with a nearby Auberge. It's a fifteen minute country walk, but the coach will be on hand if preferred, taking less than five minutes.

Thursday 23rd June A day of prehistoric sites. Firstly, La Roque St. Christophe, a cliffdwelling since the Paleolthic Age. Intriguing history and Vezere River views from the precarious cliff-face where ancient man lived. See how it was then transformed in the middle ages, to a working troglodyte village. Lunchtime in Montignac, a delightful Perigord town. Then a guided tour in the caves of Lascaux II. The 17,000 year-old cave paintings cannot be opened to public, but the adjacent replica caves are. Admire paintings of bison, bulls, elk, horses and ritual symbols. Learn how they were created, and now reproduced using the same technique and tools. Absorbing visit.

Delicious Perigord cuisine, in a charming auberge atmosphere with wine included.

Friday 24th June Through the scenic Perigord lanes to Les Jardins du Manoir d ’Eyrignac, one of the most renowned gardens in France. An elegant Manoir with formal gardens of topiary hornbeams, box and yew, Jardin Blanc, Jardin Potager, Jardin Fleuriste and the new and contrasting meadow of wild flowers of pastel colours. We enjoy lunchtime in Sarlat – an opportunity to buy produce of the local region to take home.

Produce of the region, farmed and cooked by people of the region. Heaven for foodies!

Our Dordogne Hotel We have six nights at Hotel Clos de Roussillon, Vitrac. In a countryside setting fifteen minutes stroll to the River Dordogne, just south of Sarlat-la-Caneda, close to Le Roque Gageac and Domme. A smart professionally-run family hotel, quiet location, air-conditioned, comfortable modern rooms, breakfast room, bar, terrace, outdoor pool. There is no lift at the hotel but ground floor rooms are available on request. www.closroussillon-perigord.com

14

ITINERARY

Saturday 25th June Breakfast at our hotel, and then back to The Best Western Hotel Les Terrasses de Montargis. Dinner included. Sunday 26th June Eurotunnel from Calais this afternoon. Return to Sussex for taxis home.

£799 per person

*Important Most days require good walking ability, visiting hill-top towns, castles, caves, and cliff-dwellings.

Sole occupancy supplement £140

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

Sharing a twin/double room Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £39.75

The Inn on The Lake

䡲 Reduction for National Trust Members

Sunday 3rd July for 7 days

© Windermere Lake Cruises Ltd

New Hotel & Itinerary

DAY 4 The Lakes Distillery is Cumbria’s newest visitor attraction. A virtual tour will take you on a 25-mile journey from the source of the River Derwent to the sea and then on to the distillery house to discover how the company makes its whisky, gin and vodka. Naturally, a tasting is included. Later we will visit the pleasant northern Lakes town of Keswick before rounding off the day with a cruise on Derwent Water.

ITINERARY DAY 1 Once everyone has been collected by taxi and is safely on board the coach we will drive north through the Midlands. The final leg of today’s journey takes us over the Cumbrian fells and along the shore of Ullswater to our comfortable Hotel in Glenridding.

DAY 5 There is no excursion today, allowing time to relax at our Hotel and enjoy the surroundings. There are plenty of walks available, from a gentle stroll beside the Lake to the arduous ascent of Helvellyn, England’s third highest mountain. A short stroll will take you to the jetty from where you can take a boat trip on Ullswater. A new pier has been built connecting the National Trust waterfall at Aira Force and the lakeshore path back to Glenridding.

DAY 2 After breakfast we will be joined by an old friend of Roadmark, the Blue Badge Guide Ian Jones. Ian hails from Kendal and has an in-depth knowledge and genuine love of the Lakes. He has devised a tour that takes us to pretty villages like Hesket Newmarket and Caldbeck. We will take a lunch break in Cockermouth with an included visit to the Georgian townhouse that was the birthplace and childhood home of William Wordsworth.

DAY 6 This morning we will make our way over the narrow, winding Kirkstone Pass and arrive in Windermere. There will be time to visit Lakeland, home of innovative gadgets and kitchenware, before we take a cruise on Windermere aboard one of the famous ‘steamers’. We will cruise the full ten and a per person half miles of the Lake then board a steam train Sharing a twin/double room for a journey along the Leven Valley on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway. At the Single supplement £60 end of the line the coach will be waiting to Lake View room supplement £90 per take you back to the Hotel. person

£685

DAY 3 Today we head south passing Thirlmere and some of Cumbria’s mightiest peaks. We will stop for coffee in pretty Grasmere where Wordsworth is buried in the churchyard alongside his wife and family. You can take the opportunity to try some of Sarah Nelson’s famous Gingerbread, a Lakeland speciality. Next we call at BownessOn-Windermere where there will be time to find lunch. This afternoon we visit Holehird Gardens, home of the Lakeland Horticultural Society. Here you can stroll in 5 acres of hillside gardens and enjoy some of the best views in Lakeland.

DAY 7 We leave the Lake District and set off on our journey south. Hopefully traffic will be light so that we can reach Sussex late afternoon for taxis to your door.

Reduction of £7 for National Trust Members Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £25.50

Your Holiday Hotel The 4-star Inn On The Lake enjoys one of the most spectacular settings in the Lake District, set in 15 acres of grounds with lawns sweeping to the shores of Ullswater. The Hotel was awarded ‘Cumbria Tourism Large Hotel of the Year’ in 2013 and prides itself on courteous and friendly service. The Lounge Bar has stunning lake views, perfect for a coffee, pre-dinner drink or night cap. There are 47 beautiful bedrooms with hospitality tray, hair dryer, telephone, free Wi-Fi and Freeview TV. Some rooms look towards the mountains and fells and others over the ever-changing Lake. The restaurant has an AA 2-Rosette rating and places a strong emphasis on local produce. The Ramblers Bar serves homemade food and real ale. There is a lift to all floors. www.lakedistricthotels.net

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

15

Liverly Liverpool

䡲 From just £299 per person

Monday 11th July for 5 days

© Flickr - Ruth

New Tour

If you have never been to Liverpool or not visited in recent years you will be amazed at the new additions to the City skyline. Latest of these is the Museum of Liverpool, with its distinctive white lines, built in 2011 to sit alongside the famous Three Graces. These comprise the Royal Liver Building, crowned with mythical Liver Birds that watch over the city, the Cunard Building and the Port of Liverpool Building. The old rubs shoulders with the new all over Liverpool, and nowhere is this best demonstrated than at the Albert Dock. A World Heritage Site with an array of listed buildings, the former warehouses are now home to attractions like the Merseyside Maritime Museum and ‘The Beatles Story’. The latter charts the story of the Fab Four from the early days through to their solo careers. Art and Culture are well represented by the Tate Liverpool and impressive Walker Art Gallery. It’s all a far cry from the 1970s, when Sandra and Beryl first appeared on our screens as the mini-skirted flatmates in ‘The Liver Birds’ sitcom.

as you like during the day. The tour route covers a wide area of the City and stops include St.George’s Hall, the Walker Art Gallery, the Anglican and Roman Catholic Cathedrals, Radio City Viewing Gallery, Liverpool Wheel and Albert Dock. DAY 3 Today’s excursion will take you to Tatton Park to visit one of our most complete historic country estates. Awarded ‘England’s Large Visitor Attraction of the Year 2014’, the former home of the Egerton family is set in a vast landscaped deer park. We include admission to the stunning neo-classical mansion, formal gardens, and the working 1930s rare breeds farm. DAY 4 San Francisco has its cable cars, New York has its yellow cabs, and Liverpool has its Mersey Ferries. After breakfast today we will board one of the iconic little ships for a 50minute River Explorer Cruise with a fascinating recorded commentary as we sail from the City across to the Wirral. On completion of the cruise the rest of the day is free to visit more of Liverpool’s attractions or head for the shops at Liverpool ONE. DAY 5 We are homeward bound today, travelling via the motorways with refreshment breaks en-route. We shall arrive in Sussex late afternoon for taxis to your door.

ITINERARY DAY 1 A taxi will collect you from home and bring you to the coach. We shall make our way through the Midlands and Cheshire to reach our Hotel in Liverpool by the end of the afternoon. DAY 2 It’s midsummer, so a great way to experience the sights of the City is from the top deck of an open-top bus. We include a ticket for the Sightseeing Liverpool Tour. The buses are frequent and stop close to our Hotel. You are allowed to hop-on and hop-off as many times Your Holiday Hotel Days Inn Liverpool has 154 contemporary and stylish ensuite bedrooms. Primarily a business hotel, it is ideally located in the heart of the City, just a short stroll from the Waterfront, Museum of Liverpool, Pier Head and historic Albert Dock. The bedrooms, reached by a lift, have free Wi-Fi, flat-screen satellite TV, tea & coffee maker and hairdryer. The first floor restaurant serves a 3-course choice dinner menu with tea/coffee included. Each morning of your stay you will enjoy a full English breakfast. www.daysinn.co.uk/Liverpool

16

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

£299 per person

Sharing a twin or double room Sole occupancy supplement £60 Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £22.75

Discover The Seine Valley with CroisiEurope

PASSPORT REQUIRED

Thursday 28th July for 5 days New Tour

A five-day cruise from the pretty port of Honfleur in Normandy to the great capital city of Paris. What could be more relaxing than to sail at a gentle pace between wooded river banks and chalk cliffs through a superb valley whose variations in light have inspired countless poets and painters throughout history?

the finest examples of 10th-century Norman architecture. Later the ship sails for Rouen, passing steep cliffs at the foot of which nestle quaint little villages. Botticelli will arrive in the City at around 4.00pm with the opportunity to join a guided tour taking in the cathedral, historic quarters and the “Place du Vieux Marché” where Joan of Arc was buried alive at the stake.

ITINERARY DAY 1 – HONFLEUR A Roadmark taxi will collect you from home in the normal way. We make our way to Dover for the short sea crossing to France. By late afternoon we reach Honfleur and are welcomed aboard the MS Botticelli, our home for the next 4 nights. There will be time to settle comfortably in your cabin before meeting the crew for a welcome cocktail reception. The boat stays alongside in Honfleur tonight, providing an opportunity to go ashore if you wish. DAY 2 – HONFLEUR – CAUDEBEC-EN-CAUX After breakfast you can undertake your own exploration of Honfleur with its fishing port, picturesque old houses, salt attics and Church of St. Catherine, the biggest wooden church in France. Alternatively join the optional guided tour provided by Croisieurope. After lunch on board you can enjoy an optional excursion to the Cote Fleurie visiting Trouville, Deauville and a Calvados distillery. DAY 3 – CAUDEBEC-EN-CAUX – ROUEN This morning an optional guided tour will take you to the abbey of Saint-Wandrille then on to Jumièges and the church of St. Pierre, one of Your accommodation MS BOTTICELLI Is it a boat or is it a ship? We are not quite sure, but the MS Botticelli is certainly an extremely smart vessel. MS Botticelli, which is over 350 feet in length, was built in 2004 and completely refurbished in 2010. It has 75 ensuite cabins on two decks, with about 15 steps separating one deck from another. All the cabins provide a panoramic view and have a bathroom (shower & WC), 220V electricity, air conditioning, hairdryer and a safe. There is a panoramic lounge and bar, a souvenir shop and a sun deck. Your CroisiEurope cruise includes full board (breakfast + lunch + dinner) from dinner on the first evening to breakfast on day 5. Also included are drinks – water, wine, beer, fruit juices and coffee served during meals and from the bar (excluding champagne and wines from the wine list). Lunch and dinner comprise a set 3-course menu. Please indicate any special dietary requirements (e.g. vegetarian, celiac) on the booking form.

DAY 4 – ROUEN – PARIS After an early morning start and breakfast while sailing, MS Botticelli will make a stop in Mantes la Jolie. There will be an optional excursion to the Chateau of Versailles, one of the finest achievements of 17th century French art and architecture. This afternoon is spent cruising towards Paris, passing the futuristic quarter of La Défense. This evening enjoy a farewell Gala Dinner served on board. DAY 5 – PARIS Breakfast is served on board before disembarking at around 9.00am. The Roadmark coach will be waiting with a guide to take you on a tour of the sights. Paris has a reputation for taste and elegance and per person we will show you some of the most famous Sharing a twin/double cabin on the grand shopping boulevards like the Champs Elysees as well as landmarks like the main deck Concorde, the Louvre, the Bastille, the Arc de £60 per person upper deck supplement Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower. After your tour £119 sole occupancy supplement there will be time for lunch before we make

£599

our way home to Sussex.

Deposit £150 per person

CroisiEurope When river cruising was a privilege only for the wealthy CroisiEurope developed a new concept aimed at providing the best service at the right price. After nearly 40 years this remains the Company’s core principle today and it is firmly established as Europe’s largest family owned river cruise operator, currently with 43 ships on European rivers and canals. CroisiEurope is very conscious of environmental concerns and ships are fitted with engines meeting the latest European standards. Much of the waste collected onboard is recycled and all ships have water savers and waste-water disposal systems. www.croisieurope.co.uk Excursions We are aware that some clients may wish to remain on board for the entire cruise, while other people will prefer to join one or more of the shore excursions offered by CroisiEurope. So as to provide maximum flexibility, the holiday price does not include excursions, other than the guided Paris Tour on day 5. A list of excursions and prices will be sent to you and bookings can be made in advance or on board, subject to availability.

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

17

Island Hopping in The Hebrides

© Flickr – Peter Gawthrop

Wednesday 3rd August for 8 days

Join Roadmark’s journey of discovery visiting no less than 8 of Scotland’s Western Isles. Some are linked by causeway and others by water, with ferry rides amidst stunning and ever-changing scenery. This is a circular tour, travelling up and back through Scotland by different routes so you will see the best of the Highlands as well.

© Flickr – nicolas Valentin

and ancient stone circles and standing stones can be found everywhere. Our guide will show us the traditional Blackhouses, amazingly still lived in until recently, the “Hebrides Stonehenge” at Callanish, and Carloway Broch, one of Scotland’s best preserved defensive structures.

DAY 1 Once a taxi has picked you up and brought you to the coach we drive through the Midlands and over the Cumbrian fells to the Crowwood Hotel in Lanarkshire. Dinner and breakfast included. www.crowwoodhotel.co.uk DAY 2 We enter the Highlands and make a stop in Pitlochry. This afternoon we will be driving through the spectacular scenery of the Grampian Mountains and Cairngorms National Park en-route to the Highland capital of Inverness. Here we include a visit to the Scottish Kilt Maker Visitor Centre to enjoy a fascinating insight into the history, tradition and culture of the kilt. A little further and we come to the hamlet of Garve where our Hotel is set amid attractive gardens leading down to the Blackwater River. www.garvehotel.com DAY 3 After breakfast we head to Ullapool, a drive of just over 30 miles, for the morning Calmac ferry sailing to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis. Arriving at around lunchtime we check in to the Cabarfeidh Hotel for a two-night stay. Set in attractive gardens, this modern 4-star hotel is situated on the outskirts of the Town. Free afternoon in Stornoway where there is a diverse range of shops and the Lewis Loom Centre telling the story of Harris Tweed. www.cabarfeidhhotel.co.uk

©Paul Tompkins

Please note that breakfast on Barra will comprise a continental style cold buffet only. DAY 6 A leisurely day on Barra with its tranquil beaches and distinctive culture with Gaelic being widely spoken. There are excellent coastal walks and car/cycle hire from our Hotel.

ITINERARY

18

DAY 5 Today will be a day of Island-hopping and breathtakingly beautiful scenery. We drive south through Lewis, North Harris and South Harris and take a ferry to the tiny Isle of Berneray. From here causeways take us to North Uist, Benbecula and South Uist where the west coast is a continuous sandy beach while the east is dominated by mountainous peaks. Another causeway links to Eriskay, known to many as the ‘Whisky Galore’ Island. Local people could not believe their good fortune when, in 1941, a ship carrying 50,000 cases of Whisky sank, providing the opportunity for salvaging some of the ‘Water of Life’ and a subsequent book and film. A short ferry hop brings us to the Isle of Barra where we stay for two nights at the Isle of Barra Hotel. www.isleofbarrahotel.co.uk

DAY 7 Early breakfast and ferry from Castlebay to Oban. This wonderful cruise takes nearly five hours, crossing open sea for the first section then through the Sound of Mull and into Oban Bay. The rest of the afternoon is spent driving south alongside Loch Awe and Loch Lomond with views of the Trossach peaks. Our final per person night of the tour is spent at the Erskine Bridge Hotel set in attractive grounds overlooking the Sharing a twin/double River Clyde. £99 single supplement www.theerskinebridgehotel.co.uk Deposit £75 DAY 8 Our Scottish odyssey ends today as Emerald Insurance £27.50 we travel home via the motorways, reaching Sussex for early evening taxis.

DAY 4 Today we will be joined by a local guide for an excursion around Lewis, the most northerly and the largest island of the Outer Hebrides. Lewis has a history stretching back thousands of years

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

£739

West Country Rail and Sail

The Edinburgh Tattoo – Tunes Of Glory

Monday 8th August for 5 days

Saturday 13th August for 5 days New Itinerary

䡲 Reduction for National Trust members

© Flickr – Simon Ingram

©The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

New Tour

Visiting Tiverton in the Exe Valley, this midweek holiday combines a relaxing cruise along the Grand Western Canal, two fine National Trust properties, and a journey on one of Britain’s best preserved steam railways. ITINERARY DAY 1 A taxi will collect you from your home and bring you to our coach. We drive to the West Country, making a stop at Montacute House, a fine Elizabethan mansion with a beautiful garden. Arrival in Tiverton late afternoon when tea/coffee will be served while porters take the luggage to your room. DAY 2 A morning in which to explore the pleasant town of Tiverton before taking a gentle cruise along the Grand Western Canal on a “1-horse powered” barge. During the trip you will hear memorable tales, anecdotes and historical facts about the horse drawn barge and the Canal. In traditional Devon style a cream tea will be served as you glide almost silently through the countryside. The waterway has been designated a local nature reserve with a wide variety of birds, plants and insects. DAY 3 We make our way to Bishop’s Lydeard, terminus of the West Somerset Railway, the longest standard gauge heritage railway in the UK. Here we join a steam-hauled train for a nostalgic 20-mile journey following the line of the Quantock Hills and coastline of Bridgwater Bay to Minehead. There will be time to explore and find lunch in this pretty little seaside town before rejoining the coach. Our return route takes us along the rugged and hilly north Devon coast and through part of the Exmoor National Park. DAY 4 Just south of Tiverton on the banks of the River Exe is Bickleigh Mill, an 18th century water mill and craft centre. We continue to our main visit for the day at the National Trust’s Killerton House, an elegant 18th century house built for the Ackland family. There are extensive gardens with an unusual range of trees and shrubs, wonderful herbaceous borders, a Victorian laundry, ice house and chapel. DAY 5 After breakfast we make our way along the south coast, pausing in Dorset’s County Town of Dorchester for a lunch break and arriving home by the end of the afternoon for taxis to your door.

£455 per person Sharing a twin/double room © Tiverton Canal Co.

£75 sole occupancy supplement Reduction of £20 for National Trust members Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £22.75

Your Holiday Hotel You will stay for 4 nights with dinner, bed and breakfast, at the comfortable 3-star Best Western Tiverton Hotel. Situated on the outskirts of the Town the Hotel provides a warm West Country welcome and is very experienced with looking after groups such as ours. Bedrooms are comfortable, spacious and well-equipped, with TV, free Wi-Fi, hairdryer, trouser press and tea/coffee making facilities. All the bathrooms have a shower over the bath – sorry no walk-in showers. The Gallery Restaurant serves English buffet breakfast and carvery style evening meals with a good menu choice. The Hotel does not have a lift, but half of the rooms are located on the ground floor. www.bw-tivertonhotel.co.uk

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is one of Scotland's greatest events. The show takes place high above the skyline of Edinburgh on the floodlit Castle Esplanade. Showcasing music, dance and display from around the world, the 2016 Tattoo will pay tribute to HM The Queen’s 90th birthday while celebrating ‘Tunes of Glory’. There will be two drivers, enabling us to serve refreshments on board the coach to and from Scotland. The first night will be spent in Lancaster so that the outward journey can be a more relaxed and interesting one. HISTORY OF THE TATTOO The word “Tattoo” comes from the closing-time cry in the inns in the Low Countries during the 17th & 18th centuries and translates as 'Turn off the Taps'. The first Tattoo was held in 1950. In 1952 the first overseas regiment took part when the Band of the Royal Netherlands Grenadiers performed. Since that time over 46 countries from across six continents have been represented. The first lone piper was Pipe Major George Stoddart who played in every performance for the first 11 years of the Tattoo. The event was first seen in colour on TV in 1968 and today is broadcast in around 30 countries. It is estimated that about 100 million people see the Tattoo on television each year. The Tattoo is run for charitable causes and over the years in excess of £5 million has been given to military and civilian charities. Not a single performance has ever been cancelled. ITINERARY DAY 1 Taxi pick up from your home to the coach. We drive through the Derbyshire Peak District to the Holiday Inn Lancaster for an overnight stay with dinner and breakfast. DAY 2 We climb over the Cumbrian fells, pass through the Borders and break our journey to visit the New Lanark World Heritage Site. There will be plenty of time to explore the restored 18th century cotton mill village and have lunch. Later we continue to the Westerwood Hotel for a three-night stay. DAY 3 Today is devoted to Edinburgh. The Scottish capital is approximately an hour’s drive from our Hotel. We will be joined by a guide for a coach tour, passing major landmarks like Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament. The afternoon will be free for your own exploration before making your way to the Castle for a 9pm performance of the Military Tattoo. Please note that dinner is not included today. DAY 4 After breakfast we embark on a leisurely scenic tour of The Trossachs. Driving through the Campsie Fells we reach Aberfoyle before continuing along the Duke’s Pass to Loch Katrine. This beautiful freshwater loch is steeped in history and legend, and we will take a cruise on the famous steamship Sir Walter Scott. DAY 5 We set off for home, making a stop in the border village of Gretna Green. The famous Blacksmith's Shop has stood in Gretna since 1712 and was a popular destination for eloping couples. We reach Sussex by mid evening for taxis to your door. This holiday is not suitable for anyone with a walking difficulty. The old cobbled approach to Edinburgh Castle is on a steep incline and it is quite a walk from the coach park. Seating in the Tattoo arena is steeply tiered. Seats for the Tattoo are included and will be in blocks 3-5 or 12-14.

£485 per person

Sharing a twin/double room Sole occupancy supplement £75 Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £22.75

Your Holiday Hotel The 4-star Westerwood Hotel near Cumbernauld is part of the Q Hotels group. Set in an elevated position surrounded by a golf course, it has 148 bedrooms and a magnificent swimming pool and spa. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the Hotel. Rooms have separate bath and shower, Freeview television, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Many of the rooms are on the ground floor and there is also a lift. www.qhotels.co.uk

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

19

Summer in Constable Country

Welsh Rarebits

Sunday 21st August for 5 days

Sunday 4th September for 5 days

䡲 Reduction for National Trust

䡲 Reduction for National Trust members

and RHS Members

New Tour

© Flickr - Alan Newman

New Tour

Cosmopolitan and vibrant Cardiff has only been a city for 100 years, but its history spans almost 2000 years. This tour is about more than Cardiff though, as we explore the valleys, industrial landscapes and heritage of South Wales, with a little Roman history thrown in for good measure. Having enjoyed the hospitality of the excellent Stoke-by-Nayland Hotel on our Christmas tours we felt it was time we paid them a summer visit. We have devised a new itinerary with pretty Suffolk villages, historic towns, beautiful gardens and a river cruise. ITINERARY DAY 1 A taxi will collect you from home and we will make our way to Colchester, the oldest recorded town in Britain. Time to find lunch or visit the Castle before we arrive at the Hotel midafternoon. Tea and cake will be served whilst porters take your luggage to your room. The Stoke by Nayland Hotel is set in peaceful grounds with a lake and golf course so you may like to enjoy a stroll or visit the pool before dinner. DAY 2 After breakfast we will be joined by a Blue Badge Guide for an informative tour of some of the pastel-coloured villages whose timber-framed houses and thatched roofs make this area so special. We will see Long Melford and stop in Lavenham, often referred to as “England’s Finest Medieval Village” to visit the 16th-century Guildhall. We also visit places associated with the artist John Constable like Dedham and East Bergholt where Flatford Mill provided the inspiration for some of his most famous pictures. DAY 3 We drive to Waldringfield for a two-hour Cruise along the River Deben. The Deben Estuary is a Special Protection Area and the commentary will tell of its rich wildlife and history. We continue to Southwold, a charming seaside town on the Suffolk Heritage Coast. DAY 4 This morning we will visit Bury St. Edmunds to admire the medieval architecture, elegant Georgian squares, Cathedral and Abbey gardens. This afternoon sees us at Helmingham Hall Gardens. The House, completed in 1510 and not open to visitors, has been home to many generations of the Tollemache family and is surrounded by a moat, serene gardens and a deer park. DAY 5 Leaving Stoke by Nayland we travel to the Royal Horticultural Society’s Garden at Hyde Hall. One of the finest gardens in the East of England, Hyde Hall is set among rolling hills and has panoramic views that you would not normally associate with Essex. Highlights include the Hilltop Garden, Robinson and Woodland Gardens and a Dry Garden. After the visit we return to Sussex for taxis to your door.

£439 per person Sharing a twin/double room Sole occupancy supplement £95 Reduction of £5 for NT Members and £9 for RHS Members Deposit £75

ITINERARY DAY 1 Our door-to-door service will bring you to the coach and we shall head off through Berkshire, Wiltshire and South Gloucestershire. Crossing the Severn Bridge we arrive in Cardiff for a mid-afternoon check-in. You will be able to begin your exploration of the City before dinner. DAY 2 After breakfast we will be joined by a local guide for a tour of the City Centre and Cardiff Bay with its multi-million pound Barrage extending from the docks in the north to Penarth in the south. The rest of the day will be free to explore at your own pace. Among the many attractions within easy reach of our Hotel are the Cardiff Museum, the 19th century gothic fantasy that is Cardiff Castle, and the remarkable Millennium Stadium, home to international rugby and football. DAY 3 The Valleys of South Wales have been described as ‘The Engine of the British Empire’. Today we will enjoy a fascinating guided tour, taking us to places like Merthyr Tydfil, home to the iron and railway industries, the World Heritage Site of Blaenavon, and discovering how coal made Wales the first industrialised nation in the world. There are countless disused coal mines and we will hear tales of the miners and the disasters that so often brought tragedy and suffering to the valleys. We will visit ‘Guardian’, the largest mining memorial in Wales. It commemorates the 1960 Six Bells Disaster in which 45 men and boys lost their lives in an underground gas and coal dust explosion. DAY 4 Not far from Cardiff, in the Vale of Glamorgan, are Dyffryn Gardens. A relatively new property for the National Trust, the Gardens are an exceptional example of Edwardian garden design. There are 55 acres of gardens to explore as well as a large glasshouse, statuary collection and an arboretum featuring trees from all over the world. Then we will visit St. Fagans, part of The National Museum of Wales. It is one of Europe’s leading open air museums and chronicles the historical lifestyle, culture and architecture of the Welsh people. DAY 5 This morning we visit Caerleon Roman Fortress. We will see the Bath House, remarkably well-preserved and offering a fascinating insight into life in 2nd-century Roman Britain. You will be amazed at the ‘state-of-the-art’ facilities enjoyed by the soldiers – heated changing rooms, a series of cold and warm baths, exercise rooms and even an open-air swimming pool! During the afternoon we drive home to Sussex to meet our taxis.

Emerald Insurance £22.75

Your Holiday Hotel The Stoke by Nayland Hotel is family owned and managed by the founders of the famous Copella brand of apple juice. No expense has been spared to provide guests with the very best in quality, comfort and a high standard of service. There are 80 bedrooms (with a lift), all with granite bathrooms, satellite TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Many have countryside views across the lake and golf course. Leisure facilities include an indoor pool with spa, sauna and steam room. www.stokebynayland.com

20

£379 per person

Sharing a twin/double room Sole occupancy supplement £60 Reduction of £7 for National Trust members Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £22.75

Your Holiday Hotel Roadmark Travel first used the Holiday Inn Cardiff for a mystery holiday in 2013 and it received good reviews from our customers. The Hotel is situated in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre, close to the Castle and Millennium Stadium, and provides a great base from which to explore. There are 157 air-conditioned bedrooms with comfortable bedding, satellite TV, high speed internet (extra cost applies) and tea/coffee making. Dinner is a three-course choice menu with tea or coffee included, and each morning you can choose from a full range of cooked items on the breakfast buffet. The Hotel has a lift. www.hicardiffcitycentre.co.uk

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

Art and History in Budapest By air with Success Tours

PASSPORT REQUIRED

Sunday 11th September for 5 days New Tour

Synagogue, Heroes Square and the Fine Arts Museum. We will stop for a coffee and cake at Alexandra Bookcafé. Located above a large bookshop, the Café is adorned with chandeliers and a magnificent fresco-style ceiling. This afternoon is free to enjoy any aspect of the City you choose – you might want to visit one of the hot spas for which Budapest is famous. Dinner is at your own expense this evening, with lots of cafés and restaurants within easy reach of the Hotel. DAY 3 Today we travel by coach to the picturesque town of Szentendre for a guided tour and some free time. The riverside town has well-preserved 18th-century baroque-style churches, museums and merchant houses and a Mediterranean feel about it not found elsewhere in Hungary. It is well known for its art galleries and in the cobbled streets you will find stalls selling wine, tablecloths and local produce. Back in Budapest this evening you can choose to dine at leisure or join an optional visit to Gundel’s, a renowned restaurant that has won many accolades for its traditional Hungarian cuisine.

© Flickr – Mederic

Following the ‘success’ of our visit to Krakow in 2014 we have asked our partner Success Tours to arrange this holiday for us to Budapest, the fascinating capital of Hungary. Discover a city steeped in history and culture on the banks of the River Danube. Budapest is blessed with an abundance of beautiful baroque, neoclassical and art nouveau architecture. The tour, which will be accompanied throughout by a representative from Roadmark Travel, takes us to the most important sights of the City and includes an excursion to the artists' town of Szentendre. There is also an evening dinner cruise on the Danube to view Budapest from a different perspective, when all the main sights and bridges are beautifully lit. ITINERARY

DAY 1 Taxi pick-up from your home to the coach and transfer to Gatwick for a morning scheduled flight to Budapest. On arrival we will be met by a local guide and coach and taken to our Hotel. This afternoon you can begin your exploration of the City. You might want to take one of the open-top bus sightseeing tours that pick-up close to our Hotel. This evening enjoy a three-course dinner with a glass of wine at the Hotel. DAY 2 After breakfast we will take a guided tour of the Pest side of the City. Highlights include the Parliament Building and Opera House (admissions included), the Grand

DAY 4 Today a morning excursion will show you the Buda side of the Danube. Crossing the Chain Bridge we visit the “Cultural Avenue”, starting with the Buda Castle District where we include entrance to Fisherman’s Bastion and Mathias Church. There are spectacular views across the River to the Pest side. This afternoon is spent at leisure and later you will per person enjoy an evening cruise on the Danube including dinner and live piano entertainment. Sharing a standard twin/double Transfers to/from our Hotel are included.

£739

DAY 5 We check out mid-morning and return to the Buda side of the River to admire the view from Gellert Hill with great photoopportunities. Our coach will then take us to the New York Café in the City Centre to enjoy a farewell lunch (included). Considered to be one of the world’s top cafes, it is certainly one of the most ornate Afterwards we will head back to the Airport for the flight home. On arrival at Gatwick we meet Roadmark’s coach for the short journey and taxi transfer to your door.

Your Holiday Hotel Situated in the heart of Budapest, the 4-star ASTORIA HOTEL combines historical elegance with modern comfort. The impressive Mirror Café & Restaurant serves Hungarian delicacies as well as international cuisine. Bedrooms are reached by a lift and have Satellite TV, free WiFi, air-conditioning, minibar, safe, hairdryer and an en-suite bathroom. Tea/coffee is not available in the rooms but can be purchased at the bar. The Hotel is conveniently situated about a 15-minute walk from the Danube and right next to a tube station and tram stop. Public Transport in the City is free for over-65s providing that you carry your passport. www.danubiushotels.com/Astoria-Budaprest

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

room

Deluxe Room Supplement £22 per person Sole occupancy supplement £113 (standard), £155 (deluxe) Deposit £150 Emerald Insurance £43.75

Flights Airline schedules will not be available until early 2016 but your flight will be with either easyJet or British Airways. We will select what we think are the most suitable outward and return times. Please be aware that it may be an early morning flight from Gatwick. The flight duration is around 2.5 hours and the transfer time from Budapest Airport to the Hotel is just under an hour. This tour will be booked with Success Tours Limited ATOL 5114 for whom we act as agents, and all bookings are subject to their booking conditions.

21

Pennine Yorkshire

Bodelwyddan Castle and Scenic Snowdonia

Sunday 11th September for 5 days

Monday 19th September for 5 days 䡲 Reduction for National Trust members

New Tour

New Itinerary

© Flickr - Tom Blackwell

© Flickr – Daryl Hutchinson

䡲 Reduction for National Trust members

Many will remember ‘LAST OF THE SUMMER WINE’, the classic TV sitcom that followed the antics of Compo, Foggy and Clegg and was set in and around the small town of Holmfirth just north of the Peak District in West Yorkshire. This tour explores this wonderful countryside and takes you to some of the area’s best attractions.

Warner Holidays are just for adults and Bodelwyddan Castle in North Wales is one of their finest properties. There is a great range of daytime activities and you will enjoy four fabulous nights of live entertainment, one of which features a show-stopping vocalist. ITINERARY DAY 1 A taxi will collect you from home and bring you to the coach. We drive through the Midlands, past Chester and arrive at Bodelwyddan Castle by the end of the afternoon.

PENNINE YORKSHIRE INCLUDES

CHATSWORTH HOUSE & GARDENS

Magnificent Derbyshire country home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire SALTAIRE A Victorian model village in the Aire Valley. Built by woollen mill owner Sir Titus Salt in 1851, Saltaire is a World Heritage Site and home to a collection of work by artist David Hockney EAST RIDDLESDEN HALL A costumed guide will take us on a fascinating tour of this National Trust property that was once home to a 17th-century cloth merchant and is surrounded by intimate gardens THE KEIGHLEY & WORTH VALLEY RAILWAY We take a nostalgic steam train ride through the area of rugged natural beauty known as Brontë Country HAWORTH & THE BRONTË PARSONAGE MUSEUM See the Pennine village where Charlotte, Anne and Emily lived and worked and visit the Parsonage that was home to the Reverend Brontë, his wife Maria and their six children LAST OF THE SUMMER WINE HERITAGE TOUR

DAY 2 The Snowdonia National Park is right on our doorstep and today’s excursion will show you some of its magnificent mountain peaks, lakes and valleys. We pass Betws-y-Coed, Capel Curig and Beddgelert before reaching the coastal town of Porthmadog for a lunch stop. This afternoon we take a scenic ride on the amazing little Welsh Highland Railway through the foothills of Snowdon, all the way to Caernarfon. DAY 3 Driving along the Welsh coast we cross the Menai Strait and visit Plas Newydd, an enchanting mansion and gardens, the country seat of the Marquess of Anglesey. The 1930s interior is famous for its Rex Whistler association and contains his exquisite romantic mural. This afternoon we stop in the attractive town of Beaumaris where you can visit the Castle built by Edward I, the Victorian Gaol, or take a boat trip to Puffin Island (Beaumaris attractions not included). DAY 4 A free day allows plenty of time to relax and enjoy some of the many leisure activities on offer at Bodelwyddan Castle. DAY 5 We leave North Wales and travel home today, calling at Bridgemere Garden World, one of the UK’s largest garden centres. We reach Sussex late afternoon/early evening for taxis to your door.

Discover some of the secrets of the world’s longest-running sitcom with 295 episodes produced between 1973 and 2010. Leaving from Sid’s café we drive through the narrow lanes around Holmfirth to see some of the locations used in the series and climb to the top of the moor passing fields where many of the stunts were performed.

£419 per person Based on a standard twin/double room No sole occupancy supplement

£439 per person

Reduction of £9 for National Trust Members

© Flickr - waldopepper

Sharing a twin/double room

Emerald Insurance £22.75

Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £22.75

Your Holiday Hotel You will stay for four nights, with dinner bed and breakfast, at the Best Western Plus Cedar Court Hotel Leeds/Bradford which provides comfortable accommodation and a warm Yorkshire welcome. A large modern hotel, the Cedar Court has 103 bright and spacious bedrooms with free WI-FI and tea/coffee making facilities. Hotel guests enjoy complimentary use of the leisure centre with its heated swimming pool, spa pool, sauna and steam room. www.cedarcourthotels.co.uk/cedar-court/leeds-bradford

22

Deposit £75

Sole occupancy supplement £80 Reduction of £6 for National Trust members

Your Holiday Hotel Bodelwyddan Castle lies just a few miles inland from the coast of North Wales and less than an hour’s drive from the peaks of Snowdonia. It is not a real castle but a glorious and romantic folly, an appealing mixture of Gothic, Jacobean and Greek revival styles. A multimillion pound investment has included the opening of the new Gallery Bar and a glass atrium joining the hotel reception with Princes Hall. The Mulberry Lounge has been completely refurbished with extra seating, glass walls and natural stone finishes. Guests enjoy use of the Leisure Club with its heated indoor pool, sauna, tropicarium and spa pool. Other activities include Snooker, Tai Chi, Zumba and Table Tennis, and you can admire the Victorian portraits on display in the opulent interiors of the Castle. Bodelwyddan has a great entertainments team, with music, dancing and comedy – no two nights are ever the same! www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk/hotels/bodelwyddan-castle-hotel

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

Lake Garda and The Dolomites

PASSPORT REQUIRED

Friday 23rd September for 10 days New Tour

Lake Garda has been a popular choice with holidaymakers for over a century. The southern part of the Lake has vineyards, olive groves, lakeside towns and something of a Mediterranean feel. By contrast, the northern end of the Lake where we stay is fjord-like in nature and surrounded by towering mountains and cliffs. From our Hotel in Riva del Garda we will explore some of the lakeside towns and villages and visit the Dolomites, a mountainous region with dramatic peaks and deep, long valleys. ITINERARY DAY 1 Taxi pick up from your home to the coach. Eurotunnel to France and continue to the Best Western Post Hotel on the outskirts of Liège for an overnight stay with dinner and breakfast. DAY 2 Driving south through Luxembourg we cross the beautiful hills of the Vosges. We will break our journey to enjoy the pretty Alsace wine village of Riquewihr, then continue to our overnight hotel, the Holiday Inn Mulhouse. DAY 3 We enter Switzerland at Basel and continue past Lucerne to cross the Alps by way of the St. Gotthard Tunnel. Skirting Milan we reach Lago di Garda, making our way up its western shore to Riva at the head of the Lake. DAY 4 To introduce Riva del Garda and learn more about the town, we include a leisurely walking tour this morning. The historical centre of Riva is the Citta Vecchia with its baroque style palaces. Rocca di Riva is an ancient castle housing the local museum. After time for lunch and further exploration we will take a boat trip to Limone sul Garda to see the remains of the old lemon houses dotted among the houses and businesses.

DAY 5 Keeping to the eastern shore of Lake Garda we travel to the pretty walled village of Lazise with its paved lakefront promenade. The 12th century Church of San Nicolo is known for its fine frescoes. Next we visit the Olive Oil Museum at Cisano di Bardolino for a fascinating explanation of the history of olive oil manufacture. The museum shop has an excellent range of different oils, vinegars and olives. Bardolino is a world famous wine producing area and we will enjoy the hospitality of the family-owned Villa Calicantus where, after a gentle walk through the vineyard and olive grove, we will taste three wines, matched with local salami and home made bread. DAY 6 Today we will visit Arco, Torbole and Malcesine, all relatively close to our Hotel in Riva. Arco sits at Garda’s highest point overlooking the Lake and has a ruined castle. In the fishing village and pretty port of Torbole sul Garda you will see the beautiful Vecchia Dogana (Customs House) and be able to visit one of the gelaterias to sample delicious Italian ice cream. A little further along the Lake lies the medieval town of Malcesine, perched on the water’s edge under the shadow of Monte Baldo. It is possible to take a cable car to the summit for spectacular views across the Lake and the Dolomites. Malcesine has an old town with cobbled streets, the Cassone Museum and Capitain Palace. DAY 7 Today we drive north to the attractive spa town of Merano nestling among the majestic Dolomite Mountains with the Passiro River tumbling through its centre. Later we will stop in the wine growing village of Caldaro where the Lake is surrounded by green meadows and high mountains. We include a ride on the Mendelbahn, Europe’s longest and steepest continuous cable funicular railway. From the summit of the Mendola Mountain there are impressive views of Lake Caldaro and the vineyards below. DAY 8 A free day to relax at the Hotel, take a dip in the pool, explore more of Riva, enjoy another cruise on the Lake or indulge in some souvenir shopping. DAY 9 After breakfast we will load the luggage and make an early start, returning through Austria and Germany for an overnight stay at the Mercure Hotel Forbach. DAY 10 Our holiday to the Italian Lakes comes to an end today as we return through France and catch an afternoon ferry back to the UK. Taxis will await our arrival in Sussex and take you home to your door.

£869 per person

Sharing a twin/double room Sole occupancy supplement £149 Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £42.50

Your Holiday Hotel The Hotel Savoy Palace is a 4-star hotel located near the San Nicolo Marina. The Lake is only a short walk away and so too is the long promenade that stretches between Riva and nearby Torbole. It is approximately 800 metres to the historic heart of Riva del Garda. The Hotel is family owned and offers a good standard of accommodation, food and service. There are 190 rooms on five floors reached by a lift. Bedrooms all have private facilities, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning and a balcony. The hotel has a bar, restaurant, terrace, garden and indoor swimming pool. Breakfast is a hot and cold buffet and dinner a served 4-course menu (antipasto, primo, secondo and dessert). On one evening there is a gala dinner with candlelight and music. Additionally tea, coffee and cakes are included each afternoon. www.tonellihotels.com

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

23

Classic Killarney Sunday 2nd October for 8 days

© www.irelandscontentpool.com

New Itinerary

For over 250 years, visitors have journeyed through extraordinary landscapes discovering the places and people that make Killarney & Kerry a remarkable destination. This extraordinarily beautiful area has deep blue lakes, looming peaks and awesome craggy coastlines. We stay at one of our favourite hotels in the lively little town of Killarney, where bars have music every night and the famous horse-drawn jaunting cars are always on the move.

DAY 4 This morning enjoy a traditional Jaunting Car Ride through the Killarney National Park. The driver, known as a “jarvey”, is both guide and storyteller. Next we take a cruise aboard the waterbus around Lough Leane while your skipper provides a commentary on the flora, fauna and historical heritage of the area. This afternoon is free to explore Killarney town with its restaurants, gift shops and traditional Irish pubs.

ITINERARY

DAY 8 After an early breakfast at the Hotel we take the ferry from Rosslare to Fishguard then drive home through South Wales, across the Severn Bridge and reach Sussex mid evening.

DAY 5 A full day exploring the Dingle Peninsula. Enjoy a scenic tour of this precious Irish landscape with ancient beehive huts surrounded by an intricate coastline – a region that has captivated poets, writers and filmmakers. This afternoon a special treat – a scenic boat tour and dolphin-watching excursion around Dingle Bay. DAY 6 A day at leisure to see more of Killarney and take advantage of the Hotel’s leisure facilities. DAY 7 We say a fond farewell to Killarney and drive to Cobh in County Cork. Originally known as Queenstown, this pleasant waterside town was the embarkation point for hundreds of thousands of hungry and penniless Irish men and women who left to build a new life in America during the famine years of 1844-48. We include a visit to the multimedia exhibition telling the Queenstown Story, housed in Cobh’s restored Victorian Railway Station. This afternoon we continue to Wexford for the final night of the per person tour at the Maldron Hotel. Sharing a twin/double room

£639

DAY 1 Taxi pick-up from your home to the coach. We travel through the Midlands for a lunch break at Trentham Gardens near Stoke. Continuing through rural Staffordshire and Cheshire we reach North Wales and spend tonight at the Kinmel Hotel, set amidst rolling parkland with views of the coast.

Sole occupancy supplement £119 Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance 27.50

DAY 2 An early departure for Holyhead on Anglesey, where we board the Stena Line Ferry which crosses the Irish Sea in around 3 hours 15 minutes. Breakfast today is included on board the ship. The journey to County Kerry is a shade under 200 miles but Irish roads have improved greatly in recent years – they now even have motorways! – so we will arrive at our Hotel in good time for dinner.

Your Holiday Hotel The 4-Star Killarney Towers Hotel occupies a prime position in the heart of the town and offers guests an extensive range of leisure facilities. These include a 15-metre Swimming Pool, Sauna, Steamroom and Whirlpool. There is a cosmopolitan feel to the Hotel, which is usually busy with lots of different groups arriving and departing. There is often live Irish music in O’Donoghue’s Bar immediately next door to the Hotel. The spacious bedrooms have hospitality tray, television, telephone, iron and hairdryer. There is complimentary Wi-Fi. The Hotel has a lift. Breakfast and dinner are buffet style. www.killarneytowers.com

24

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

© www.irelandscontentpool.com

Day 3 Accompanied by a local guide we take a tour of the famous Ring Of Kerry, 110 miles travelling around MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the Iveragh Peninsula, along the breathtaking Atlantic Coast, Dingle Bay and Kenmare Bay, returning through Molls Gap, Ladies View and the Killarney National Park.

By Appointment to the Crown with Tony Pragnell Wednesday 5th October for 6 days New Tour

© Flickr – image_less_ordinary

Tony Pragnell, who will be your guide for this holiday, has come up with a new tour that offers tremendous valuefor-money. There is something for everyone; a trip on the Settle-Carlisle Railway, Roman History, English Heritage and great Lakeland scenery with the Mountain Goat. The included excursions alone come to about £80 per person! The tour is based around the hospitality of The Crown Hotel at Wetheral, a four-star hotel in a pleasant village in Cumbria, handy to explore the history and landscapes of the Border Country.

250 square miles, the largest working forest in England. We have arranged a boat cruise on Kielder Water, where we will also find a cafe for lunch. Our drive will briefly touch Scotland, and no doubt we will enjoy early autumn views of this wild and wonderful Border country.

ITINERARY WEDNESDAY Taxi pick-up from your home. We travel to Clitheroe today, to the Ribble Valley on the fringe of the Forest of Bowland, where we stay for one night at The Foxfields Country Hotel. THURSDAY It is a short journey to Skipton, gateway to The Yorkshire Dales. The grand 11th Century Skipton Castle forms a dramatic centrepiece to this bustling market town with a variety of shops and plenty of cafes for morning coffee or early lunch. This afternoon we have reserved seats on the Settle/Carlisle Railway for a 72-mile journey through remarkable scenery, on one of Britain’s most spectacular railway lines. From the limestone uplands of the Yorkshire Dales the line heads north, via Ribblesdale, between fells and peaks, climbing onto open moorland and across the 24-span viaduct at Ribblehead, linking the remote and dramatic northern dales, then on to Garsdale Head before descending into a mountain valley, through Appleby in Westmorland and along the Eden Valley up to Carlisle. We rejoin our coach at Carlisle, and make the short journey to The Crown at Wetheral. FRIDAY A scenic excursion into the Northumberland National Park and the Border Forest Park takes us to Kielder Water, the biggest man-made lake in Northern Europe and, at over Your Holiday Hotel The Crown was once a coaching Inn and is now a four-star hotel where we enjoy delicious food and cosy comfort. Facilities include indoor pool and leisure centre, charming restaurant and traditional bar. The Crown sits in a pleasant village in Cumbria, handy to explore the history and landscapes of the Border Country. There is no lift with most of the bedrooms being on the first and second floors. Includes evening dinner with choice. Breakfasts cooked to order. www.crownhotelwetheral.co.uk

SATURDAY From our hotel we have a short drive east, into Northumberland, alongside Hadrian’s Wall to the most impressive section at Walltown Crags, with a visit to The Roman Army Museum. We continue though pleasant scenery to Hexham for lunch, where we can also visit Hexham Abbey. Then we follow the Roman Military Road alongside Hadrian’s Wall to Vindolanda, one of Europe’s most important Roman sites with a display of remarkable objects found during excavations, shoes, clothing, tools, cooking utensils, wood and metal work, military equipment etc. We will also see the acclaimed Vindolanda writing tablets, listed among Britain’s ‘Top Treasures’. SUNDAY An exciting day among the Northern Lakes, with the popular Mountain Goat Tour Company using their minibuses and expert driver/guides for a variation of their spectacular Ten Lakes Tour, discovering high passes and scenic dales, dramatic Lake District scenery where coaches cannot go! We begin on the “wrong” side of Ullswater then Kirkstone Pass, and a road called The Struggle, Ambleside, Thirlmere, Derwent Water, Borrowdale, Honister Pass, Buttermere, Crummock Water, Cold Fell, Newlands Pass, Whinlatter Pass, and more. We will pause for photos, refreshments and a lunch break in Keswick. A thrilling experience! MONDAY We travel home with a break at Trentham Gardens Retail Village. It is the ideal stop, providing various lunch venues, independent retailers and big brand names from fashion to art. There is an entrance charge for the Italian Garden should you wish to squeeze this in as well. We complete our journey back to Sussex where taxis await.

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

£579 per person Single/twin/double £77 sole occupancy supplement Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £23.75

25

The Rhine Ablaze

PASSPORT REQUIRED

Thursday 13th October for 5 days

Autumn Mystery Holiday Monday 17th October for 5 days

New Itinerary

䡲 Reduction for National Trust members

© Flickr - mLu.fotos

New Hotel

For our second Mystery Holiday of 2016 we have discovered a real gem of a Hotel we feel sure Roadmark guests will enjoy. We will be showing you the autumn colours in a very scenic part of England and taking you on a river cruise, visiting two National Trust properties and one of our finest cathedral cities. It may seem strange booking a holiday to an unknown destination but we can assure you that it will be a lot of fun as your driver attempts to keep you guessing every twist and turn of the way! As always there will be a bottle of “bubbly” for the person whose guess is the nearest.

In the Rhine Gorge, during the autumn grape harvest, there are celebrations and firework displays to mark the new wine season. Witness this in style aboard a special evening boat cruise down the romantic Rhine where spectacular fireworks and curtains of fire illuminate the night. ITINERARY DAY 1 Taxi pick-up from your home to the coach. We take the Eurotunnel to France then drive to the Park Inn Leuven for an overnight stay with dinner and breakfast.

SAMPLE HOTEL DINNER MENU To start

Fruit juice of your choice Carrot & Coriander Soup

DAY 2 On our route today lies the delightful medieval walled town of Ahrweiler. This is red wine country, a landscape of old castles, craggy rocks, forests and terraced vines. There will be time to explore and find lunch before we continue further into Germany, arriving in Boppard by the end of the afternoon. A welcome drink awaits before dinner.

Chicken Mousse Medallions Prawn Salad Cocktail Main Course Smoked Salmon Salad © Flickr - Vio Oprea

Steak & Kidney Tartlets

DAY 3 A day at leisure to enjoy the little town of Boppard with its Roman fort and medieval churches surrounded by the sloping vineyards that line the River Rhine. There is always plenty of activity on the River with heavily-laden barges and passenger boats passing by. This evening sees the highlight of the tour as we take to the water for a cruise on one of the most romantic stretches of the Rhine. During the cruise we enjoy dinner, entertainment and dancing before the pyrotechnics commence and set the Rhine ablaze with colour.

DAY 4 A later start today for our excursion over the Hunsrück Hills, one of Germany’s most richly forested areas. We visit Andreas Schlagkamp-Desoye, a highly respected producer of Mosel wines. We will enjoy an informative and amusing talk in his cellars, tasting-room and Museum of Viniculture. We taste various wines and can buy inexpensively. Later we take a photo-stop and lunchtime in Beilstein, the prettiest village on the Mosel, and then some time in Cochem, with chairlift, castle, river-boats, cafes and restaurants. DAY 5 We leave Boppard and travel home through Belgium for an afternoon train through the Channel Tunnel and on to Sussex to meet the waiting taxis.

£499 per person

Cod in Parsley Sauce Mushroom Stroganoff Dessert Raspberry Mille Feuille Fruit Salad Strawberry Pavlova Trio of Luxury Ice-Cream

Bonus clue 1: The route does not involve travelling on the M25 (Hurrah!) Bonus clue 2: One of the National Trust properties we shall visit has been a location for the BBC Antiques Roadshow

£355 per person

Sharing a twin/double room No single supplement Reduction of £20 for National Trust members Deposit £75

sharing a twin/double room

Emerald Insurance £22.75

Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £29.75

Your Holiday Hotel The Best Western Premier Bellevue Rheinhotel is a charming 4-star Hotel located on the riverfront in the centre of Boppard and just a short walk from the pedestrianised town centre. The Hotel has a sauna, steam bath and indoor swimming pool. There are 93 elegant bedrooms, equipped to a high standard with private facilities, hairdryer, TV, telephone and tea/coffee making facilities. There is a cosy bar and wine cellar. The Hotel has a lift. www.bellevue-boppard.de

26

Your Mystery Holiday Hotel 䡲 is a new hotel for Roadmark Travel 䡲 is part of the BEST WESTERN family 䡲 is not modern (which is our way of saying it’s quite old) 䡲 has a 3-star rating 䡲 is Grade 1 listed for historical & architectural interest 䡲 is set in attractive grounds approached by a winding driveway The Hotel does not have a lift although there are a limited number of ground floor rooms.

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

Autumn Colours of The Wye Valley

Alvaston Hall

Sunday 23rd October for 5 days

Monday 14th November for 5 days

A Warner Leisure Hotel

New Itinerary

© Flickr - dave-pemcoastphotos.com

New Tour

The Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers a unique landscape. Its very name conjures up images of beautiful woodlands, dramatic castles and lush riverside scenery beloved of artists and poets such as Turner and Wordsworth.

Roadmark Travel is pleased to offer another midweek break to Alvaston Hall near Nantwich. In the past two years Warners have invested over £12.5 million in this beautiful Grade II-listed Victorian Hotel which is surrounded by rolling Cheshire farmland.

DAY 1 As soon as everyone is on board we will drive to Westonbirt Arboretum in Gloucestershire. Our National Arboretum is managed by the Forestry Commission and has around 15,000 trees and shrubs from all over the globe. You will have plenty of time to enjoy the spectacular autumn colours before we continue to our Hotel in Monmouthshire DAY 2 Today a Local Guide will accompany us on a coach tour of the Wye Valley. We include a visit to Tintern Abbey, one of the great monastic ruins of Wales and will also take you to Monmouth for a guided tour of the Shire Hall. At this former Court of Assizes you will be able to sit in the Judge’s chair and go down to the cells to see at first hand the unpleasant conditions prisoners were subjected to. DAY 3 Just a stone’s throw from our Hotel are Dewstow Gardens. Built around 1895, the Gardens were buried under thousands of tons of soil just after World War 2. Rediscovered in 2000 they are once again open to visitors who can explore a labyrinth of underground grottoes, tunnels, ponds, ferneries and rock gardens. Later you can either return to the Hotel for a leisurely afternoon, or spend some time in the historic market town of Chepstow, situated on the west bank of the River Wye. Chepstow Castle has a Norman Castle perched high above the River and an award wining local Museum. DAY 4 We devote today to The Forest Of Dean. This National Forest Park, the first in England, was created in 1938. Our tour will reveal some of the Forest’s hidden secrets, passing the Verderers’ Court, nature reserves, former quarries, ironworks and coal mines. We will take a ride on the Dean Forest Railway to experience the sights, sounds and smells of travel on a rural branch line. DAY 5 Returning across the Severn Bridge we will visit Bowood House in Wiltshire. Bowood, set in beautiful ‘Capability’ Brown designed parkland, has been home to the Lansdowne family for over 200 years and houses a unique collection of historical artefacts. During the afternoon we return to Sussex for taxis home to your door.

£425 per person

Sharing a twin/double room Sole occupancy supplement £80 Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £22.75

Your Holiday Hotel You will stay for four nights with dinner, bed and breakfast at the St. Pierre Marriott Hotel & Country Club on the outskirts of Chepstow. The Hotel is set in 400 acres of picturesque parkland and centred on a 14th century manor house. One of the top golfing venues in the UK, it has two 18-hole courses. The rooms have all the facilities you would expect of a Marriott, luxurious bedding, tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer and comfy chairs. Bathrooms have a separate bath and shower. Guests enjoy complimentary use of the Health Club including pool, sauna, steam rooms and gym. Dinner is a three course choice menu and includes tea/coffee. A hot and cold buffet breakfast is served each morning. The Hotel does not have a lift although there are ground floor rooms which are in a separate building. www.marriott.co.uk/hotels/travel/cwlgs-st-pierre-marriott-hotel-and-country-club

MONDAY One of our taxis will collect you from home and bring you to the coach. We will arrive at Alvaston Hall late afternoon and porters will take your luggage to your room. After dinner the sparkling entertainment begins! Each night there is something different – this week the programme has a festive theme, with live music, comedy and dancing.

© VisitEngland – Diana Jarvis

ITINERARY ITINERARY

TUESDAY Today we travel to the Potteries for a visit to the newly re-opened World Of Wedgwood. You will see craftsmen at work utilising unique artisan skills and techniques developed over 250 years at Barlaston, the home of Wedgwood. The award-winning museum houses an amazing collection and you will be able to find bargains in the Factory Outlet Shop. WEDNESDAY There will be no coach excursion today, allowing plenty of time to relax at the Hotel and enjoy the wide range of leisure activities and entertainment on offer. THURSDAY After a delicious all-you-can-eat breakfast we will depart for a scenic excursion that will take us through Cheshire, Staffordshire and into the wild and rugged Derbyshire Peak District. After a stop for lunch in the elegant spa town of Buxton we return via the famous “Cat and Fiddle” road. FRIDAY Our homeward journey will be via the City of Lichfield with its 800 year old Cathedral. We reach Sussex by late afternoon and the waiting taxis will return you to your door.

£369 per person

No sole occupancy supplement Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £22.75

Your Holiday Hotel With its indoor pool, sauna, leisure area and Salon Spa, Alvaston Hall is the perfect place in which to unwind and relax. Evening entertainment is in the impressive Grove Cabaret Restaurant where guests enjoy dinner served to their table or from the carvery, with a wide menu choice. Every table has an unobstructed view of the stage and dance floor, ensuring that you will never miss any of the top-class shows and performers. The Fountain Bar serves a wide range of wine, beer, spirits and cocktails. We have booked standard rooms featuring comfy chairs, tea and coffee making facilities, television, telephone and hairdryer. There is a lift at the Hotel. www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk/hotels/alvaston-hall-hotel

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

27

The Thursford Christmas Spectacular

A Touch of Class in Bruges

Sunday 4th December for 3 days

Wednesday 7th December for 4 days

䡲 Price held from 2015!

PASSPORT REQUIRED

䡲 Including Bruges and Brussels

©Thursford

© Flickr – VISITFLANDERS

Christmas Markets

We make no apology for including another short break to Norfolk for the spectacular Christmas Show at Thursford. We think that it is unique, and probably the best production of its kind in the UK. The Show, which started as a small carol concert in an old farm shed in 1977, now attracts over 100,000 visitors annually and has a budget of £4 million. Enjoy the music, both traditional and contemporary, carols, dazzling dancers, glittering costumes and outstanding singing from a cast of over 100. If you have never been before then Thursford is an absolute must. If you are a regular visitor there is always something new to excite and entertain. ITINERARY SUNDAY Pick-up by taxi from your home to the coach. We will then make our way to Colchester, the oldest recorded town in Britain with a unique heritage and history. There will be time for lunch before we continue to Dunston Hall, arriving in good time for relaxation, or perhaps a swim, before dinner. MONDAY After breakfast we drive into Norwich where there will time for morning coffee and some Christmas shopping. We continue to Thursford where the Theatre will be beautifully decorated in readiness for the afternoon performance of the Christmas Spectacular. One of the main features of the Show is the mighty Wurlitzer organ, the fourth largest in Europe with over 1,300 pipes, which was rescued from the Odeon Cinema in Leeds and is normally played by Phil Kelsall MBE. TUESDAY This morning we head to the historic market town of Bury St.Edmunds in Suffolk. Bury has a striking combination of medieval architecture, elegant Georgian squares and a glorious cathedral. After time to explore and find an early lunch we will resume the homeward journey, reaching Sussex by the end of the afternoon for taxis to your door.

£279 per person Sharing a twin/double room £43 sole occupancy supplement

A visit to BRUGES is fascinating at any time of year, but in winter its medieval squares are illuminated with thousands of coloured lights and a magical festive atmosphere pervades the cobbled streets. Our short break will take you not only to Bruges but also to Brussels, which hosts Belgium’s largest Christmas Market. Should you tire of shopping and sightseeing you can relax in the warmth and comfort of the charming Hotel Navarra, which we think is a hidden gem, right in the historic city centre. ITINERARY DAY 1 Taxi pick up from your home to the coach. We drive to Folkestone for the convenient Eurotunnel crossing then on to Bruges, arriving early afternoon. Once checked in you can begin your exploration of the ancient Flemish city and choose a restaurant for dinner. DAY 2 Spend the entire day in Bruges where our Hotel is just a few minutes stroll from the main attractions, canals, museums, galleries and shops. Explore the festive stalls on the Grote Markt and on Simon Stevinplein, all crammed with local crafts, Christmas decorations and elegantly packaged chocolates. Watch (or why not join in with) the skaters on the ice rink, enjoy the Snow and Ice Sculpture Festival or visit De Halve Maan Brewery, established in 1856. DAY 3 Belgium’s capital city is about a 90-minute drive and here we will discover one of Europe’s finest Christmas Markets. Set up along a 2km illuminated walk through the city centre, the market is bursting with continental atmosphere and hundreds of wooden chalets offering an array of festive delights. There are magical son et lumière displays on the UNESCO World Heritage listed Grande Place, a Ferris wheel and ice rink at the Marché aux Poissons, and dozens of stalls for stocking up per person on gifts and treats. We will stay in Brussels Sharing a twin/double room at the until early evening to experience the full ambience and allow time for dinner in one of Hotel Navarra the many smart restaurants. Supplement for sole occupancy £139

£349

DAY 4 After breakfast the Hotel will store your luggage so that you can spend the morning last-minute shopping and then find lunch before we leave Bruges. We will arrive in Sussex early evening where taxis will be waiting to take you home.

Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £28.50 Please note that this tour will be Bed & Breakfast only. Dinner will be at your own expense.

Deposit £75 Emerald Insurance £17.50

Your Holiday Hotel Formerly a De Vere property, Dunston Hall is now part of the well-respected QHotels group. The 4-star Hotel is an Elizabethan-style country house built in 1859 on the outskirts of Norwich. The Hotel sits in 150 acres of landscaped grounds and retains a warm and traditional atmosphere. Bedrooms at Dunston Hall are stylishly decorated. Some retain period features and all are extremely comfortable. In addition to SKY TV there is free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryer and trouser press. Guests enjoy use of the indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room. There is a lift www.qhotels.co.uk/our-locations/dunston-hall

28

Your Holiday Hotel The Hotel Navarra is in the heart of historical Bruges and is renowned for its unparalleled service in an intimate atmosphere. The building is an elegant 17th century mansion listed as a historic monument and offering all the comforts of a modern 4-star hotel whilst retaining its original charm. Not many hotels in Bruges have a swimming pool, but the Navarra has a heated pool, ingeniously created inside the old wine cellars and part of a ‘wellness’ centre which also includes a sauna and fitness room. There is a cosy bar and afternoon tea shop. All bedrooms, served by lift, are ensuite and have tea and coffee making. A splendid continental buffet breakfast is included each morning. Accommodation is on a bed and breakfast only basis, allowing you to enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants and pavement cafes to be found within easy reach of the Hotel. www.hotelnavarra.com

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

Bath Christmas Market and Longleat Festival of Light

Christmas in Constable Country Friday 23rd December for 5 days 䡲 Price held from Christmas 2015! 䡲 Book before 1st April and pay just £50 deposit

Thursday 8th December for 4 days

© Flickr – David Farquhar

New Tour

Our new pre-Christmas break combines great shopping opportunities with a touch of history in Bath and a visit to one of the country’s bestloved stately homes to enjoy the Festival of Light. ITINERARY DAY 1 A taxi will collect you from home and bring you to the coach to join your driver and fellow travellers. We will make our way to Wilton near Salisbury for a lunch break at Wilton Shopping Village. Here you will discover a historic courtyard, shops, restaurant and an antique centre, all housed within part of the original Wilton Carpet Factory built in 1710. This afternoon we continue across Salisbury Plain to reach our hotel in good time for dinner. DAY 2 After breakfast we will set off for Bath, about an hour’s drive. The Bath Christmas Market is established as one of the best in the UK. Each year the historic city centre is transformed into a magical Christmas shopper’s paradise as over 170 wooden chalets line the streets surrounding the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey. This afternoon we visit The American Museum In Britain. With its remarkable collection of folk and decorative arts, the Museum explores American traditions and is the only Museum of Americana outside the U.S.A. DAY 3 This morning we take you to Devizes, a town standing on the Kennet and Avon Canal. An historic market town with a colourful medieval past, Devizes enjoys a rich heritage of fine Georgian houses. There will be time to explore and visit one of the many inns – the celebrated Wadworth Brewery remains in its original site and has a well-stocked brewery shop. Later we head to Longleat near Warminster. The Festival Of Light here is a relatively new event and, whilst the programme for 2016 was not available at the time of writing, we can expect magical displays lighting up the grounds of the famous stately home. There will be a giant Christmas tree and pantomime characters welcoming you to the House which will be beautifully decorated. We will also take a Winter Safari to meet some of the animals in the park.

Following requests from many of our customers, the 2016 Roadmark Christmas Holiday will again be to the comfortable 3-star Stoke By Nayland Hotel near Colchester. This will be our 5th year at the Stoke by Nayland, which is family owned and managed by the founders of the well-known Copella brand of apple juice. The Hotel is surrounded by rolling countryside and a golf course in the heart of Constable Country on the borders of Suffolk and Essex. There are 80 bedrooms, served by a lift. All feature Satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee maker. Many rooms have views across the lake and golf course. There are plenty of areas in which to relax and leisure facilities include a luxurious indoor swimming pool. Spa, sauna and steam room. www.stokebynayland.com THE FESTIVE PROGRAMME INCLUDES: 䡲 4 nights with dinner, bed and breakfast at the Stoke by Nayland Hotel 䡲 “Guess the weight of the Christmas Cake” competition 䡲 A light lunch on Boxing Day before a visit to the Pantomime 䡲 Evening Entertainment 䡲 Traditional 5-course Christmas Day Luncheon with mince pies 䡲 The Roadmark “Big Christmas Quiz”

DAY 4 It is Sunday and time for a leisurely breakfast and read of the newspapers. A short distance from our Hotel is the Great Western Designer Outlet. The shopping centre is housed in the restored buildings of the old per person railway works and has over 100 stores Sharing a twin/double room including a John Lewis Home outlet. In the eating area you can see one of the steam Sole occupancy supplement £59 locomotives originally built in Swindon. We will Deposit £75 stay for a couple of hours before making our

£299

way home to Sussex to meet the waiting taxis.

Emerald Insurance £21

Your Holiday Hotel You will stay for 3 nights at the comfortable and modern Hilton Hotel (4-star) on the outskirts of Swindon. There are 171 bedrooms, accessed by a lift, and ground floor rooms are available on request. Bedrooms have tea/coffee making facilities and bathrooms feature both baths and showers. Wi-Fi is available free in the public areas and in the bedrooms at additional cost. The Hotel restaurant serves traditional British cuisine. Dinner is a three-course buffet with a choice and includes tea/coffee. A delicious buffet breakfast is served each morning. www.hilton.com/swindon

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

£655 per person

Sharing a twin or double room £719 per person for sole occupancy Emerald Insurance £23.50 Deposit £75 per person (£50 if booked before 1st April)

29

Holiday Booking Terms and Conditions CONSUMER PROTECTION INSURANCE In accordance with “The Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992” all passengers booking with Roadmark Travel Ltd are fully protected for the initial deposit and subsequently the balance of all monies paid to us, including repatriation if required, arising from cancellation or curtailment of your travel arrangements due to the insolvency of Roadmark Travel Ltd. Your booking is insured by IPP Ltd and its panel of Insurers. This insurance is only valid for passengers who book and pay directly with/to Roadmark Travel Ltd and is only valid for packages booked that DO NOT include flights. This insurance has been arranged by International Passenger Protection Limited and underwritten by Certain underwriters at Lloyd’s. CLAIMS PROCEDURE: Download Claims Form from www.ipplondon.co.uk Any occurrence which may give rise to a claim should be advised within 14 days to: Claims Office, International Passenger Protection Limited 22-26 Station Road, West Wickham, Kent BR4 0PR In order to deal promptly with any claim hereunder it is essential that you retain all bills, receipts and other documents relating to your travel arrangements. CLAIM FORMS MUST BE SUBMITTED WITHIN SIX MONTHS OF DATE OF INSOLVENCY. WE CANNOT CONSIDER OR PAY CLAIMS RECEIVED AFTER THIS DATE. For further information see www.ipplondon.co.uk ALL ROADMARK COACH HOLIDAYS ARE SOLD SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS: When signing the booking form you will sign on behalf of yourself, and the others named in your party that you have read, understood, and have accepted these conditions and the Holiday Information provided in this brochure. A contract between us is entered into when you make a booking and we accept it by written confirmation on the terms set out in this brochure. Your contract is with ROADMARK TRAVEL LIMITED of Stockbury House, Church Street, Storrington, Pulborough, West Sussex, RH20 4LA, hereinafter referred to as “The Company”. 1. You Pay a Deposit When you make a booking you must pay a deposit. For most holidays this is £75 per person and the exact amount will be advised to you when booking. If you are taking “Emerald” Travel Insurance” you must also pay the appropriate premium as shown in our Brochure. Should you decide to cancel or be unable to take up the holiday for any reason this deposit and insurance premium are both NON-REFUNDABLE. 2. You Pay the Balance You must pay the balance by the date specified in the tour confirmation. If the balance is not paid in time the Company reserves the right, after due notice to the customer, to cancel your booking. In this event, or if you, the customer, cancel the holiday arrangements after the booking is accepted, the deposit (and insurance premium if applicable) will be forfeited. 3. If You Cancel Your Holiday If you or any member of your party decide to cancel your holiday, the person signing the booking form must notify us in writing. As cancellation incurs administrative costs we will retain the deposit applicable to each person’s holiday cancelled. Any insurance premium you have paid will also be forfeited. Additionally, if you cancel within 42 days of departure, The Company will apply a cancellation charge in accordance with the following scale: Period before departure within which written cancellation is received

Cancellation Charge (including deposit paid) as a percentage of the holiday price

Prior to 42 days

Loss of deposit & Insurance premium

28 – 42 days

30%

14 – 27 days

45%

7 – 13 days

60%

1 – 6 days

100%

Departure Day or later including voluntary termination whilst on holiday

100%

6. STATUTORY AUTHORITIES & CONDITIONS OF CARRIAGE This brochure is issued subject to applicable Acts of Parliament and Government Regulations and The Company reserves the right to modify itineraries to conform with requests from competent authorities in the United Kingdom and any other sovereign state through which the tours operate. Overland carriage may be in vehicles other than those owned by Roadmark Travel Limited. When you travel on an aircraft, train or ship, the conditions of that carrier apply and are subject to National and International conditions which may limit or exclude liability. The Public Service Vehicle (Conduct of Drivers, Conductors and Passengers) Regulations as amended 1990, apply to all coaches throughout any holiday in the UK. 7. INSURANCE It is a condition of booking with Roadmark Travel that you are covered by Travel Insurance for any UK or European Holiday. There is a wide range of providers to choose from and you do not have to take the insurance offered by Roadmark. Roadmark Travel Limited is an Appointed Representative of Arthur J.Gallagher Insurance Brokers Ltd. Through Arthur J.Gallager we offer the “EMERALD COACH HOLIDAY SCHEME”. The insurance premium for each holiday is shown in our brochure and on the website, and includes Insurance Premium Tax at the prevailing rate (currently 20%). A summary of the cover is shown on page 31 of this brochure under TRAVEL INSURANCE Important Information, and a full policy document can be inspected at our office. Roadmark Travel does not provide advice or recommendation as to whether the policy meets your own specific requirements. If you decide to purchase Roadmark’s Travel Insurance and pay the relevant premium we will send you a policy document. If you decide that the cover does not meet your requirements you may return the policy document to us within 14 days and we will refund the premium paid. If you cancel your holiday for any reason after the 14-day period the insurance premium is non-refundable. You should always take your Insurance Policy document with you on the holiday. If you are not covered by the Emerald Scheme you must provide details of your own alternative insurance cover, for which there is a space on the booking form. EXISTING MEDICAL CONDITIONS (applies to both UK & EUROPE) Your Emerald policy may not cover claims arising from your pre-existing medical conditions, so if you have a medical condition and/or are taking prescribed medicine, it is essential that you telephone Travellers Healthcheck on 01732 853375 to advise them of your condition/medication. You must also telephone the Healthcheck line if you are on a waiting list for any treatment, and if your condition or medication changes after you have purchased your travel insurance. 8. PASSPORTS For all holidays abroad you will require a full 10 year British Passport and you need to complete the ‘ADVANCE PASSENGER INFORMATION’ section of the Booking Form. If you do not hold a full British Passport it may be possible to travel, provided that you have checked with the appropriate immigration authorities of the Country(ies) to be visited whether a visa is required, and that you are in possession of the visa and any other documentation necessary for entry into that country(ies). The Company cannot accept responsibility for delays or difficulties caused if passengers are not in possession of the correct travel documents. 9.SPECIAL NEEDS We will accept lightweight wheelchairs for travel, subject to them being able to be folded and stowed away in the luggage hold of the coach. We regret we are unable to accept wheelchairs that are more than 20kg in weight. We cannot carry battery powered wheelchairs or scooters. We MUST be advised at the time of booking that a folding wheelchair or walking aid is being taken on a trip, as we have also to consider the luggage capacity and weight of the coach and taxi. Our drivers and escorts will be happy to provide general assistance to passengers but will not be expected to: • Provide assistance that extends to the bodily lifting and carrying of any customers on and off the coach. • Undertake any action that may put their health, safety, welfare or the legal requirements for a break in duty at risk. • Act as carers for customers at departure, during the journey or on arrival at destination. Unfortunately, many hotels do not provide adequate facilities for guests with mobility problems or who suffer from other disabilities. We are keen to plan arrangements for your holiday so that special needs and requests can be accommodated as far as possible. If you will need assistance or special facilities in the hotel, or may have difficulties in taking part in excursions or boarding and travelling on the coach or other means of transport you must let us know in advance. Not all holidays in this brochure may be suitable for you. We want you to enjoy your holiday and will try to help you select an appropriate trip. If you need advice or further information you should contact Roadmark Travel Ltd.

10. HEALTH If you are in any doubt as to whether your state of health may render you NOTE: If the reason for cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy you may be unfit to travel you should consult your doctor and act on his/her advice. If a doctor confirms that able to reclaim these charges subject to the policy excess. Insurance premiums are not reclaimable. you are medically unfit to start your holiday it is essential that you cancel the holiday. In this case you will normally be able to make a claim on your insurance. At the time of going to press no special 4. If You Change Your Booking precautions regarding health matters were needed by travellers to the countries mentioned in this If after our confirmation has been issued you wish to change your booking (e.g. change to another brochure. However, regulations are subject to change and our clients are responsible for complying holiday or departure date), we will do our best to make the changes provided that we receive written with entry and current health requirements. For all foreign holidays we advise you to obtain a copy of notification from the person signing the booking form not later than the date on which the balance of the Department of Health leaflet “Advice on Health for Travellers”. If you are going on holiday to a the original holiday cost was due for payment. This must be accompanied by a payment of £25 to member state of the EU or EEA we advise you to carry with you a EUROPEAN HEALTH cover our administration costs. Any alteration by you made later than the original balance date will INSURANCE CARD (EHIC). An EHIC lets you get state healthcare in other EU/EEA countries plus be treated as a cancellation and subject to the charges set out in paragraph 3 above. Switzerland at a reduced cost or sometimes for free. You can apply by telephone 0300 330 1350 or online at www.ehic.org.uk 5. If You Have a Complaint If you have a complaint during your holiday, please inform, in the first instance, the supplier of the 11. DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE service and then inform our driver/courier or representative immediately, who will do his/her best to Our door-to-door service automatically applies unless stated, and provided that your home (pick-up) help you there and then. If the matter cannot be resolved to your satisfaction you must put your address is within fifteen miles of one of our main holiday pick-up points, which are complaint in writing to Roadmark Travel Limited. This should give full details of the complaint and WASHINGTON and HOP OAST PARK & RIDE in Horsham. A list of postcodes that fall within our be received by the Company not later than 28 days following the return of your holiday. Failure to inclusive taxi pick-up area can be found on the Booking Form. We may be able to arrange door-toestablish your complaint immediately in accordance with the above procedure may affect the door service for passengers outside our 15-mile area at a supplementary charge. outcome of it.

30

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

12. OTHER TERMS (a) On any Roadmark holiday you are not permitted to bring a pet or any other animal (other than Guide Dogs in the UK and Eire only and by prior arrangement). (b) Smoking, including the use of electronic cigarettes, and the consumption of alcohol are strictly prohibited on Roadmark coaches. (c) You are not permitted to play a radio, cassette or CD player on Roadmark coaches or to use any form of electronic device without head/earphones. (d) Excursions are included in the price of most Roadmark holidays and refunds cannot be made for passengers who do not wish to go on these excursions. Admission fees are not included in the price of the holiday unless stated in the brochure. (e) Roadmark Travel Limited reserves the unconditional right to refuse a booking or to terminate a client’s holiday in the event of unreasonable conduct which in our opinion is likely to cause damage, distress, danger or annoyance to other clients, employees, property or to any third party. This includes unsuitable or inappropriate attire being worn in places such as restaurants and hotels. The minimum standard dress code is normally smart/casual. If you are prevented from travelling or continuing your holiday by such a termination our responsibility for your holiday thereupon ceases. Full cancellation charges will apply and Roadmark Travel Limited will be under no obligation for any refund, compensation or loss which you may incur.

Health Conditions If you are travelling within UK and Europe – Your policy may not cover claims arising from your pre-existing medical conditions so you need to telephone Travellers Healthcheck on 01732 853375 or 08451 300 210 so that underwriters can ensure you are provided with the best cover they can offer. Please refer to the policy document. If your condition changes, after purchasing your travel insurance, or you are on a waiting list or have been sent for tests, investigations or your medication has changed, you are required to advise Travellers Healthcheck on 08451 300 210, where they will advise on what cover can be provided. General Exclusions This policy includes some general exclusions relating to health conditions of you or those on who or trip depends unless previously agreed in writing by the underwriters. It also excludes claims whereby You are under the influence of drugs (other than those prescribed by a doctor) or alcohol or solvents. Full exclusions are listed in the policy document.

Cover and Cost Cancellation

Curtailment

Medical Expenses

Up to £1,000 for UK Trips

Unused portion of costs up to £3,000

Up to £2,000,000 outside home country

Up to £3,000 for EU Trips Up to £1,500 within your home country

Our Obligation To You forms part of the Holiday Terms & Conditions 1. YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE We will only increase the price of your holiday in the following, limited circumstances: i) If there is an increase in the cost of transportation, including fuel and fuel tax, ferry operator fares and tolls, airfares and embarkation or disembarkation fees at terminals. ii) If there is an increase in applicable duties or taxes (including the rate of VAT). iii) Adverse currency exchange rate variations. Even in the event of increases in the above, we will absorb an amount equivalent to 2% of the holiday price. We will not alter the price of your holiday within 30 days of departure. 2. IF WE CHANGE YOUR HOLIDAY Every effort will be made to operate all the holidays as advertised, but arrangements are made many months in advance and changes are, therefore, sometimes unavoidable. Most changes are likely to be minor, but where a change is significant we will notify you as soon as possible. Significant changes are those that involve changing your departure or return date, the location of resort, a change to the main hotel (not single overnight hotels), or tour itinerary changes which involve a main destination being completely eliminated. In the event of such a significant change you can decide either: a) To continue with the holiday as amended or b) To accept an alternative holiday we may offer you with an appropriate increase or reduction in price, or c) To cancel your booking, and receive a full refund of all monies paid by you. 3. IF WE CANCEL YOUR HOLIDAY It is necessary for there to be a minimum number of passengers in order to operate a holiday. This number will vary depending on the tour, and the minimum for each holiday is available from Roadmark Travel on request. If this minimum number is not achieved we reserve the right to cancel the holiday. In this case we will offer you the choice of a full refund of all the monies you have paid to us, or an alternative holiday if one is available. However, we-will not cancel your holiday after the balance date unless: (a) You have not paid for your holiday in full or (b) Your holiday is influenced by events beyond our control such as hostilities, political unrest, industrial action, natural disasters, severe weather, technical problems to transport, Governmental action or other circumstance amounting to force majeure. If we have to cancel your holiday The Company is liable only for any monies you have paid to us at the time. TRAVEL INSURANCE IMPORTANT INFORMATION Roadmark Travel Ltd is an appointed representative of Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered Office: Spectrum Building, 7th Floor, 55 Blythswood Street, Glasgow, G2 7AT. Registered in Scotland. Company Number: SC108909. We only offer travel insurance from a single insurer – Union Reiseversicherung AG. This travel insurance is suitable for those who wish to insure themselves when travelling against the specified financial loss of unforeseen circumstances and events relating to your trip. A list of the covers and corresponding levels, as well as the main policy exclusions, can be found below. Further details will be in your policy document, a copy of which is available on request. We have not provided you with any recommendation or advice about whether this product meets your specific insurance requirements. It is your responsibility to decide whether this policy suits your requirements. Should you require any further information, please contact Roadmark Travel Ltd.

Personal Possessions

Personal Money

Personal Liability

Up to £1,750 in total

Up to £250 in cash on your person

Up to £2,000,000

Up to £250 each individual item Up to total of £250 for valuables

Up to £500 in total Lost travel documents up to £250

Personal Accident Up to £15,000

Policy excess: Cancellation/Curtailment/Abandonment: £65.00. Deposit only £30.00. Personal Possessions, Personal Money/Medical Expenses – £65.00

Material Facts Your insurance is arranged on the basis of what you have told us and your insurer. Therefore, you must provide answers to all questions raised honestly, completely and to the best of your knowledge. If you’re in any doubt as to whether to provide any information please do so, to ensure that your policy is set up on the correct basis because if not it could mean that part or all of a claim may be unpaid. If any circumstances change throughout the policy term please advise us immediately so that we can ensure cover is still appropriate. If you fail to report claims promptly, or any circumstances which may lead to a claim, it may affect your ability to obtain a settlement. Cancellation Rights If your cover doesn’t meet your requirements, please let Roadmark Travel Ltd know within 14 days of receiving your policy document and return all your documents for a refund of your premium. Any premium already paid will be refunded to You providing you have not travelled, no claim has been made or is intended to be made and no incident likely to give rise to a claim has occurred. Claims Full details of how to make a claim and how to appeal should your claim not be successful can be found in the policy document. Complaints Should you have a complaint about the sale of your travel insurance policy, please contact Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Ltd, 6th Floor, Temple Circus House, Temple Way, Bristol BS1 6HG. For Complaints regarding claims, please contact Customer Services Manager, Travel Claims Facilities, PO Box 420, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 9DE. Should you remain unhappy with our final reply, you may have the right to refer your complaint to The Financial Ombudsman Service, Exchange Tower, London E14 9SR. Opening times are Monday to Friday – 8am to 8pm and Saturday – 9am to 1pm. Their telephone number 0800 023 4 567 and calls to this number are normally free for people ringing from a “fixed line” phone – but charges may apply if you call from a mobile phone. 0300 123 9 123 calls to this number are charged at the same rate as 01 or 02 numbers on mobile phone tariffs. These numbers may not be available from outside the UK – so please call us from abroad on +44 20 7964 0500. Financial Services Compensation Scheme We are covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). You may be entitled to compensation from the scheme if we cannot meet our obligations. This depends on the type of business and the circumstances of the claim. Insurance advising and arranging is covered for 90% of the claim, with no upper limit. Further information is available from the FSCS.

Premiums Please see the appropriate tour page in our brochure for travel insurance prices or contact Roadmark Travel.

Roadmark Reservations 01903 741233

31

Thanks to everyone who has taken the time to write following a holiday with us in 2015. Here are just a few extracts from your letters & emails…

“

We chose these from the hundreds of super photos you sent us…

Hi Roadmark. Just wanted to say what a fabulous trip we

had to Norway. Thank you so much for organising this holiday,

which has to be the best yet we have been on. Thanks also

to David and Chris for driving us around safely, they did a

”

magnificent job

The Fabulous Fjords June 2015

“

“

I arrived home yesterday from a most enjoyable stay in

Sidmouth. The Hotel exceeded my expectations; the

itinerary was first class, as was the mystery venue for a wonderful lunch at Bickleigh Mill. Our driver Darren was absolutely great. He could not have been more helpful or

Returned yesterday from the holiday to Austria

with Peter and Julia and wanted to say how much I

”

WERPO THE FLO Jo n Heather

T M EN

es

thoughtful. Nothing was too much trouble Sidmouth for Singles February 2015

enjoyed my first foreign holiday with Roadmark. They made the long journey really enjoyable with comfort breaks, tea and coffee and quizzes to keep us amused. Must admit it was really comfortable on the coach as it was not full which meant I and

three friends had double seats to ourselves near the back where we could stretch out when we

”

WELSH HIGHLAN D RAILWAY

wanted a snooze

Margaret Norg

The Bohemian Triangle August 2015 Editor’s note: We cannot guarantee that there will be spare seats for a snooze – in fact most of our holidays operate with a full coach

“

rove

Just a few lines to say how much I enjoyed the holiday.

I was overawed by the grandeur and contrasts of the scenery.

The train and tram journeys were all wonderful. The Hotel was

very comfortable, the food excellent and the staff very friendly and helpful. David and Kate were the icing on the cake, making sure we had everything we needed, and David must be congratulated on his driving with the tortuous roads and passing other traffic. Thank you again for a marvellous holiday and I look

”

forward to joining you again in October

Railways and Tramways of North Wales August 2015

HARBO WHITBY

UR

ry Hall Rosema

ROADMARK TRAVEL LTD Stockbury House, Church Street, Storrington, Pulborough RH20 4LA

01903 741233 mail: [email protected] www.roadmarktravel.co.uk

CLOS DES ARAV IS

Jenifer West