TOUR OPTIONS

SMALL GROUP OPTIONS

Each of the tours featured on this page have been tailor made for one of our group clients.
After promotion to their members they did not reach the minimum numbers required to make the tour viable.
We are trying to increase the numbers on each tour so that we do not have to cancel the tour and disappoint those already booked.
All of these tours can be booked by individuals, couples or small groups and we will try and provide a pick up point that suits the group and anyone wishing to book.
This might mean having to get to a central departure point, however we will discuss this with you should you be inteested in booking.
The tours featured below are in departure date order and cover many UK & continantal destinations.

HISTORIC SHROPSHIRE
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Departing on September 9th 2010
3 days 2 nights duration
Return executive coach travel
2 nights half board accommodation at the 3 star Best Western Valey Hotel
All rooms with private en-suite facilities
Included excursion programme (see itinerary below)

BEST WESTERN VALLEY HOTEL
The Valley Hotel is a 3 star country house hotel, set on the banks of the river Severn in the 'World Heritage' site of Ironbridge, surrounded by stunning award winning parkland. This Georgian listed building has 44 individually designed en-suite bedrooms. All have direct dial telephone. TV, tea/coffee making facilities and hairdryers. Some have views of the river Severn and adjoining parkland and some with 4 poster or queen sized beds. You will be very well catered for in the 'Chez Maw' restaurant, which is adjacent to the relaxing bar and lounge area.

PRICE & SUPPLEMENTS
Price from £249.00pp (twin/double sharing)
Single room supplement £19.00pp (2 nights - 14 rooms only)
Deposit £50.00pp (non refundable)
Balance due by 26.07.10
Insurance is available @ £12.00 (no upper age limit)

PROVISIONAL ITINERARY
Day 1 - Departing this morning, we journey towards Shropshire stopping en route at the Heritage Motor Centre in Warwickshire and which is home to the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust, which maintains the largest collection in the world of classic, vintage and veteran British cars. The splendid collection of British vehicles ranges from one of the oldest cars in the world, a Wolseley dating from 1896, all the way through to the very latest from Aston Martin, who have their factory based just minutes from Gaydon. In between are offerings from most of the classic British marques; some such as Austin, Morris, Rover and Aston Martin are household names, but the display is just as much about the smaller and more obscure manufacturers such as Jowett and Thornycroft. The vehicles range from grand tourers, racing cars and the most exotic sports cars through to familiar every day cars and family favourites. You will be able to purchase lunch here before we continue onto Shifnal for your included visit to the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford. This museum houses one of the largest aviation collections in the United Kingdom, with over 70 historic aircraft displayed in three wartime hangars on an active airfield and the collection spans nearly 80 years of aviation history. From here it is just a very short drive onward to the Valley hotel where you will be based for 3 nights.
Day 2 – Accompanied by your guide, we spend today visiting the famous town of Ironbridge, where there are a selection of museums and other attractions that are incorporated in the 'All Sites' ticket which is included within your package. These sites are Blists Hill Victorian Town, Coalport China Museum, the Tar Tunnel, Jackfield Tile Museum, Museum of The Gorge, Museum of Iron, Darby Houses & Broseley Pipeworks. Visits must be as a group and these will be pre-chosen so that they can be booked on your behalf. There will be free time in the town of Ironbridge also and your guide who will accompany you during the course of the day, will give you lots of additional information on this historic town. We return to the hotel for your include evening meal.
Day 3 – Checking out of the hotel, we include a visit to Weston House, Park & Gardens which will include a private house tour. Much of the appeal stems from the fact that Weston Park was the beloved seat of the Earls of Bradford since the 17th Century. From the Front Hall, with its tribute to the 3rd Earl's love of horses, the Victorian Library furnished with over 3,000 books, the unique Gobelin tapestries, specially commissioned for the House, to the stunning Dining Room, which houses one of the country's most impressive collections of paintings including works by renowned artists such as Sir Anthony Van Dyck. The grounds of Weston Park combine 1,000 acres of natural beauty with three centuries of garden design. From the formal lines and long avenues of the 17th century gardens to the unique style added by ‘Capability’ Brown in the 18th century, you will find so many points of gardening interest. Surrounding the House are the Formal Gardens that retain the style and feel of the 1930’s, and the Broderie Italian Garden, which is sunken to allow unspoiled views from the Victorian Orangery. Beyond the Formal Gardens, explore Shrewsbury Walk leading to Teardrop Garden, Rose Walk, the Victorian Conservatory and St Andrew’s Church. You will have several hours at your leisure here and can purchase lunch before we head south for your final included visit to Sulgrave Manor. Your guided tour of this compact Manor House is not a demanding marathon down endless corridors but a gentle stroll through three centuries of English history in the company of a friendly and informative guide. The wonderful Tudor to Georgian furniture and artefacts are displayed in their natural settings with only the most delicate behind glass. It is also home to the largest UK collection of George Washington memorabilia demonstrating the British contribution to the origins of the USA with a separate exhibition on George's life and career in the US. Following the visit an afternoon tea is included which will consist of scone, jam & cream + tea /coffee which will be served in the buttery. Departing here this afternoon we return you to your original departure point(s) later in the day.

Simply Groups reserve the right to make minor alterations to this itinerary due to circumstances beyond our control

CRUISE THE GLORIOUS THE BLUE DANUBEDeparting Wednesday September 22nd 2010
8 days 7 nights tour
Return flights from London Stansted to Linz with Ryanair or similar airline
Inclusive of taxes as of June 2009
Including 1 piece of hold luggage 15kg & 1 piece of hand luggage max 10kg
Return private airport/boat transfers in Austria
7 nights full board accommodation on board the MV Esmeralda
All cabins with private en-suite facilities
INCLUDED EXCURSIONS
A guided tour of Vienna
A guided tour of Budapest
A half day visit to a traditional Hungarian Pustza
A guided tour of Bratislava
Optional pre-bookable Vienna theatre (TBC)
SAILING ROUTE
Day 1 Board cruise in Linz
Day 2 Depart Linz @ 05.00hrs
Arrive Vienna @ 18.00hrs
Day 3 Depart Vienna @ 18.00hrs
Day 4 Arrive Budapest @ 09.00hrs
Depart @ 19.00hrs
Day 5 Arrive Bratislava @ 13.00hrs
Day 6 Depart Bratislava@ 04.00hrs
Arrive Durnstein @ 20.00hrs
Day 7 Depart Durnstein@ 06.00hrs
Arrive Melk @ 09.00hrs
Depart Melk @ 12.00hrs
Arrive Linz @ 24.00hrs
Day 8 – Disembark & free time in Linz
Airport transfer @ approx 14.00hrs
PRICE & SUPPLEMENTS
Price from £1199.00pp (Twin cabin share)
Single cabin supplement £89.00pp ( 2 cabins only)
Deposit £200.00pp (non refundable)
Balance due by 23.07.10
Insurance @ £40.00pp (subject to medical screening)
Vienna
Known as the crossroads of Europe, since 500BC this once Cetic settlement has suffered and benefitted in equal amounts from invaders, occupiers, tyrants and rulers from across the globe. The Mongols had a go but left when Ogedei Khan reduced his armies across Europe. Family dynasties of Brabenburg and Hapsburg took over as well as the Roman and Ottoman empires. Of course anyone who has ever watched The Sound of Music will know of the Anschluss, Germany's occupation of Austria from 1938 until 1945 when Austria was divided into 4 by the allies. Since then Austria has operated independently and become a huge tourist destination in winters and summers.
Melk
831 was the year that Melk hit the headlines originally called Ostarichi, which later became Osterrich or Austria as we now know it. The town is dominated by city walls and the stunning Benedictine Monastery and the town has a lovely atmosphere.
Budapest
There is no doubting Budapests heritage and htis city is one of Europe's most popular group destinations. Budapest was originally two cities, Buda and Pest which were located on either side of the mighty Danube. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and you must visit the Castle area and walk around the old city. You will find some of the most beautiful buildings and museum in Europe. During the reign of Mathias Corvinus the city developed a superb under his influence and he started the Bibliotheca Croviniana which was Europe's greatest collection of historical chronicles and philosophic and scientific works in the 15th century, and second only in size to the Vatican City. He established the first Hungarian university in Pecsin 1367 and his legacy is clear to see throughout the city.
Bratislava
Believe it or not there was a settlement on this site dating back to 5000BC during the Linnear Pottery Culture. Like many cities in this region of the world, Bratislava became the property of all those great civilisations and it developed as a centre of culture and commerce throughout the centuries. Since the Velvet revolution when Russia withdrew from occupancy, the city is now in trhre Slovak Republic.
Durnstein
Dürnstein is a small town on the Danube river in the Krems-Land district, in the Austrian state of Lower Austria. It is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the Wachau region and also a well-known wine growing area.
Linz
First records show Linz in 799 when the Bavarians developed the small settlement as a centre of trade. It became the centre of local government for the Roman Empire with it being central to many trade routes across Europe. The Hapsburg Emperor Freidrich III spent his final days here and for a short period Linz was the most important city in the empire. More recently it has become famous as being Adolph Hitlers residence during his youth and before he became slightly more ambitious!

THE GLORIOUS BELGIAN ARDENNES
WHAT’S INCLUDED

4 days 3 nights duration

Departing on September 27th 2010

Return Executive Coach Travel

Selected pick up points

Return short channel crossing

3 nights accommodation at the Floreal Hotel in La Roche en Ardennes

All rooms with private en suite facilities

Breakfast and a 3 course dinner is included each day at the hotel

A light lunch is included on the final day

Included excursion program with entrances etc as per the sample itinerary below

THE FLOREAL HOTEL

In a building full of character the hotel is located in the heart of a beautiful area in La Roche en Ardenne. The hotel has its own outdoor pool, a mini golf course and a tennis court. Situated on the banks of the river Ourthe and only 800m from the historic town centre, the hotel is the perfect place for a short break. The rooms are twin/double bedded and all have private en-suite facilities. The restaurant serves a variety of food in a romantic setting and if time permits, you can take advantage of the pretty terrace garden.

PRICE & SUPPLEMENTS
Price based on 30 passengers £399.00pp
All rooms are based on twin/double sharing
Single supplement £49.00pp (4 nights to a maximum of 7 twin/double rooms for single use only)
Deposit (non-refundable) £ 50.00pp
Balance due in full by 10.08.10
Insurance if required is £22.00pp (no upper age limit - but subject to medical screening)

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Day 1 - Departing this morning we travel to the coast for the short channel ferry crossing to Calais. A stop will be made in the historical town of Tournai, a 2000 year old town which is steeped in history. Nowadays Tournai is the tourist and cultural capital of its region and is overshadowed by its monuments, precious traces of years of history and is known as the Cité des Cinq Clochers (the town of the five towers). You will have a little free time here to explore at your leisure, maybe visit the stunning Basilica in the Grand Place before we continue into the Walloon region of Belgium and La Roche-en-Ardenne, where you will be based for 3 nights. Having freshened up you will enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening.

Day 2 – Today is a leisurely day with most of it being spent in La Roche-en-Ardenne, which nestles in a leafy setting on the banks of the River Ourthe, and is a 'Jewel of the Ardenne' and which has a fascinating past - a wealth of history & legends. It has a very good museum relating to the Battle of the Bulge when there was fierce fighting in the Ardennes Offensive in December 1944 which destroyed 90% of the town, injuring many and killing 114 inhabitants and this museum tells a very personal story relating to the inhabitants of the town at this time. We include a visit to Gres de La Roche where you will learn about the history of the La Roche stoneware. From the earth to the table, discover the uses of stoneware through the centuries in a modern display. Experience the ancient techniques, the sensations, emotions and odours which marked the lives of the baker, the butcher, the apothecary, the monks - and also the lords of La Roche and their serfs. The interior of this unusual museum has been totally reconstructed and will take your breath away. Visit the unique Potter's workshop, with holographic projections and don't miss the opportunity of buying some of the produce and seeing the interactive presentation about Ardenne ham. During he day, you may also choose to take an electric train around the town (small extra charge). This afternoon we include a 50 minute ride on the Tramway Touristique of the Aisne which offers you a tramway ride like the ones our families might have taken in the 19th century where you will ride in either open or closed carriages, depending on the weather. At the departure point at the Pont d'Erezée, there is a modern reception point and a small museum on the 1st floor which you can visit. The tramway follows the Aisne river so that its passengers can admire and relax amongst the ‘authentic nature’ of the Ardennes. Also today, we include a visit to an Artisan Chocolate maker, Defroidmont where the manufacturing is done completely with respect for tradition and with products of the highest quality and 100% cocoa butter. You will get to see the whole chocolate making process and of course you will be able to taste and purchase products here also. We return you to the hotel where your evening meal is included.

Day 3 – Today we start the day by visiting the stunning Annevoie Palace & Gardens. The Palace was constructed in the 1620’s and was heavily modified in 1775 when the spectacular water gardens were established. The gardens feature over twenty ornamental ponds and lakes fed by approximately fifty water jets and waterfalls, and are widely regarded as some of the best, not only in Belgium, but also in the whole of Europe. You will have a guided tour here and can also purchase lunch before we continue on to Dinant, a pretty town situated on the banks of the Meuse river. Here, we include a short river cruise, a leisurely way to see the city after which, you will have some free time to maybe visit the Citadelle or explore the town, which is the birthplace of Adolph Sax, the inventor of the Saxophone. We return to La Roche later in the day and dinner is included tonight.

Day 4 – Departing the hotel after breakfast, we re-trace our steps through the provinces of the Ardennes to the Hainaut region, where we will finish your Belgian experience in a unique way. Arriving at the Giant Strepy-Thieu boatlift, located on the Canal du Centre and which is also the world's highest "lock" at 238 feet where you will board an electric tourist train which will take you upstream, to the boarding point for your cruise. You will travel to lift No. 1 and these old-fashioned boat lifts are classified as a World Heritage Site and are the only ones in the world still in use and which are able to compensate for a change in water level of about 17m through a single source of energy : water ! You will be served with a light lunch on board before we pass through the ‘Funicular Lift’ where this exceptional structure compensates for a difference in level of 73.15m and so is on its own, equivalent to the four original hydraulic lifts. Disembarking mid afternoon, we continue on to Calais for your return crossing to the UK early evening and then onward to your original departure point.

Simply groups reserve the right to make minor alterations to this itinerary due to circumstances beyond our control.

THE AMAZING THURSFORD CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

WHAT’S INCLUDED

2 days 1 night duration

Departing on 24th November 2010

Return Executive Coach Travel

Local pick up points

1 night half board at the 3* Best Western Knights Hill Hotel in Kings Lynn

All rooms with private en suite facilities

Included performance of the Thursford Christmas Spectacular with pre-booked tickets on Wednesday 24th November

Included itinerary (+ 1 lunch) as outlined   overleaf

BEST WESTERN KNIGHTS HILL HOTEL

Formerly a traditional working farm. Extensive original buildings now blend with new facilities creating an ideal location within easy reach of King's Lynn, Sandringham and the North Norfolk coast. The hotel's extensive grounds compliment the property's relaxing and informal atmosphere. Just in case you have any spare time the hotel has some wonderful facilities including a gym, a swimming pool, sauna + spa pool and of course a lovely restaurant and bar. Bedrooms are all en-suite and have hairdryers, T.V.

PRICE & SUPPLEMENTS
Price based on 45 passengers £164.00pp Twin share
Price based on 40 passengers £169.00pp Twin share
Price based on 35 passengers £174.00pp Twin share
Single supplement £12.00pp (limited availability)
Deposit (non-refundable) £50.00pp
Balance due in full by 18.10.10
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SAMPLE ITINERARY

Day 1 – Departing this morning, our journey takes us towards the historic city of Cambridge, home of the famous University, carols in King's College Chapel and punting on the river Cam. Cambridge is a compact cosmopolitan city with outstanding architecture both old and new & the beauty of its ancient centre is preserved with its walkable medieval streets, college courts, gardens and bridges. This city is a delight to visit in any season: relax in its many pubs, restaurants and cafes or explore the independent shops around the historic market place. Departing here we continue onto Kings Lynn where having checked in, you will have an early dinner before we depart for your included evening performance of the Thursford Christmas Spectacular with pre booked tickets. You will be returned to the hotel later this evening.

Day 2 - Today you will have some free time in the historic medieval port of King's Lynn. The town is now a treasure trove for history lovers with narrow streets and handsome merchant houses in the old town, the only surviving Hanseatic warehouse in the country and plenty of fascinating visitor attractions to help bring the olden days alive.

We then depart, retracing our steps making a lunch stop en route in Thetford, as we follow the Dad's Army Trail. Written by Jimmy Perry and David Croft. 'Dad's Army' started in 1967 and Thetford was chosen because the BBC had obtained permission to film at a Stanford Practical Training area. Apart from the occasional bomb going off or overhead jet aircraft, filming could go ahead undisturbed. The stars would come to Thetford for six weeks at a time, staying in the Bell and Anchor Hotels. This was usually in April or May each year until the last series in 1977. The very first scene from the first episode 'The Man and the Hour' was filmed inside the Anchor Hotel, in the 'Norvic Room', which is now a dining area. Here you will be given a 90 minute guided tour of the town finishing at the Bell hotel, for an included lunch before continuing our journey homeward, arriving back at your original departure point(s) later in the day.

Simply Groups reserve the right to make minor alterations to this itinerary due to circumstances beyond our control.

THE RHINE CHRISTMAS MARKETS
& SHOPPING CRUISE
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Departures in November & December
From 4 days 3 nights duration
Return executive coach travel (flight and rail options are also available)
Selected local pick up points
Return Eurotunnel/short ferry crossings
Twin share cabins with private en-suite facilities on board the MV Virginia
Full board including breakfast, lunch, dinner, morning coffee & afternoon teas
A Christmas theme on board with a visit from Santa including 1 night of live entertainment & other nights with music & dancing.

M.V. Virginia is stylishly furnished and decorated, with lounge and pleasant bar, a dance floor on the promenade deck and a superbly appointed restaurant. The twin bedded cabins are all tastefully decorated, comfortable and are outward facing. Each cabin has private facilities including a shower, hand basin & toilet as well as satellite TV with in house movies. The boat will be decorated in festive Christmas regalia and you will also be visited by Santa on one evening. Dinner (which may be buffet style) will be served in the restaurant once you have had time to freshen up.

SAMPLE 5 DAY ITINERARY

Day 1 The coach will depart from your allocated pick up point and take the Eurotunnel/ferry to France and on to Cologne, where you will board the M.V. Virginia later this afternoon

Day 2 You will begin the cruise down the mighty Rhine from Cologne to Konigswinter at the foot of the Siebengebirge (7 mountains). The Drachenfels, literally translated as ‘Dragon Rock’ dominates the skyline at over 1010 ft and perched on top is Trutzburg castle. There is a funicular cog railway (the oldest in Germany) from town to the summit. After lunch on board you will have the afternoon to discover the town. You might like to take the cog railway up the Drachenfels (not included), as well as visit the Lord Byron square and wine fountain before boarding the cruiser in time to freshen up before dinner

Day 3 After breakfast you continue to the beautiful city of Koblenz. The history of the city dates back to 9 B.C, which was when the city was founded and named "Castrum ad Confluentes" meaning "at the confluence". You will be given a guided walking tour of the city centre and have time to explore Koblenz at your leisure this afternoon. We highly recommend a journey to Ehrenbreitstein fortress that provides wonderful views over the Rhine as well as the ‘Deutsches Eck’ at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers

Day 4 You will depart from Koblenz this morning arriving back in Cologne in the afternoon. You will have time to explore the ancient city, named after the Roman Emperor "Colonia Claudia Ara Aggrippinsum". Present day Cologne still remains as one of the most important centres of Europe. Despite being partially destroyed during the air-raids of hte second world war, many of the cities ancient buildings, incuding the stunning cathedral remain to this day, which are well worth a visit.

Day 5 After disembarking you will travel into the southern most region of Holland and spend some time in the pretty town of Valkenburg. You will have time for some lunch (not included) before returning via Eurotunnel/ferry to your original departure point later in the day.
Simply Groups reserve the right to make minor alterations to this itinerary due to circumstances beyond our control

DUTCH BULBS CRUISE & STAY TOUR

4 days 3 nights
Departing on Friday 01.04.11

Return executive coach
Selected NATIONAL pick up points
Return ferry crossings to Calais

3 nights full board accommodation on the M.V. Virgina - twin share cabins - all lower beds (no bunks) with en suite facilities

Full board includes, morning and afternoon tea / coffee + breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. If the itinerary means that you are not onboard the ship for lunch, then a packed lunch will be provided.

Included excursion package - see itinerary for more details

PRICE & SUPPLEMENTS
Price @ 45pp £319.00pp (twin sharing)
Single cabins are on request only at a supplement of £59.00pp
Deposit of £50.00pp (non refundable)
Balance is due by 11.02.11
Insurance if required is available @ £24.00pp (NO upper age limit but subject to medical screening)

SAMPLE ITINERARY

Day 1 - Departing your area, we travel south for the short channel crossing to France this morning. We will make a stop en route in Ostende for you to purchase lunch before continuing onward towards Amsterdam arriving later today, where you board the MV Virgina. The boat is moored in Amsterdam tonight and after dinner you are free to explore the city at your leisure, should you choose to do so.

Day 2 - The boat departs Amsterdam at 8am and travels leisurely north towards the traditional fishing village of Volendam. Legend has it that the Volendam coat of arms is a compliment to the beauty of the Volendam girls ! As a result of its completely insulated location, this village has preserved its character for six centuries and also because of the stubborness and lifestyle of the local fishermen. The characteristic small houses, which together with the canals and the drawbridges form the most picturesque spots, present the visitor with an atmosphere of geniality and romance. We will take you to Simonhoeve this afternoon where the staff are dressed in national costune. They will explain how the famous Dutch cheese is made and afterwards you can visit the big clog where you can see how wooden hand carved shoes are made. You will get to taste some of the traditional farmhouse cheeses and as cheese and wine go together, there is a glass of Dutch fruit wine for everyone. You will return to the ship for dinner on board this evening.

Day 3 – Departing Volendam you cruise back to Amsterdam where lunch will be taken on board. This afternoon you are free to explore the city of Amsterdam , maybe visiting the famous Singel canal and its flower market, Dam Palace or the Rijks Museum (extra cost) or explore the shopping street (Kalver Straat) where many bargains can be found. Anne Frank's house is often on the list of places to visit (steep stairs) or you can just soak in the atmosphere of the city in one of the many street cafes that line the squares and streets. This evening you will enjoy an included three-course meal onboard the vessel - a great way to end a memorable day. A pre-bookable optional 2 hour candle-light canal cruise of Amsterdam is available this evening which includes cheese and wine on board (extra cost). This is an excellent opportunity of experiencing the city's sights for yourself and comes highly recommended.

Day 4. After breakfast it is time to disembark the vessel as we travel south by coach to the famous Keukenhof Gardens for your included visit. Set in 77 acres of wooded parkland, Keukenhof is one of the world's most spectacular flower gardens. Established in 1949 as a showcase for Dutch bulb-growers, every spring more than seven million buds reach to the sky. The growers compete for the most imaginative display, interplanting species for effect. The impact on the eye and nose of overwhelming colour and scent is an unforgettable experience. Japanese cherry trees, azaleas and rhododendrons flower behind the rows of spring bulbs and displays are regularly refreshed with new plantings to ensure a consistently dazzling array. Dramatic competitive flower arrangements are featured in conservatories which also display large collections of orchids and more beds of flowers (useful retreats if the weather is cool or wet). You will have the morning at your leisure here before re-joining the coach early afternoon and travel onto Calais for an early evening crossing back to the UK and then onwards to your original departure points.

Simply Groups reserve the right to make minor alterations to this itinerary due to circumstances beyond our control.

LOCATIONS

TOUR OPTIONS

SMALL GROUP OPTIONS

THE GLORIOUS BELGIAN ARDENNES

THE AMAZING THURSFORD CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

THE RHINE CHRISTMAS MARKETS & SHOPPING CRUISE

THE RHINE CHRISTMAS MARKETS
& SHOPPING CRUISE