15th - 19th September 2024

Nestled in the heart of the Irish Sea, the Isle of Man is within easy reach from the UK and Ireland, making it a welcome escape so close to home. As the only entire nation in the world to be recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere, you will experience awe-inspiring nature, an ancient and compelling 10,000 year history, a vibrant culture and an outdoor natural playground of unrivalled beauty which combines exhilarating coastal adventures and some of the best walking in the British Isles.

ITINERARY

Douglas, the capital of the Isle of Man since 1869 and the main tourist and commercial centre.  Here, too, are the Legislative Buildings of its ancient parliament Tynwald whose origins go back over a thousand years when the Island became a Viking kingdom.  The magnificent sweep of Douglas Bay, against the background of green hills, has a charm hard to equal anywhere.  Douglas was a pioneer in illuminations and at night presents a scene of spectacular beauty, never to be forgotten. As well as being the chief seaport, Douglas has the terminii of the Victorian steam railway which runs south to Port Erin and of the electric tramway which follows a scenic route north along the coast to Ramsey.  Both systems arouse keen interest amongst railway enthusiasts. Along the entire sea front run the Douglas Horse Trams which are now the only ones still in existence.  They began life in 1872 and they remind us of a more leisurely way of life. Behind the front can be found other places of interest such as the Manx Museum, the centre of Manx National Heritage and a fascinating treasure-house of the Island's unique history. 

16^th September 2024: After breakfast you will start your journey on the Manx Electric Railway from Douglas to the pretty village of Laxey on the east coast - then board the Mountain Railway winding its way to the Island's only mountain, Snaefell. This unique Victorian enterprise, which is around five miles long, has been in operation since 1895 and is the only electric mountain railway in the British Isles. Snaefell peaks at 2,036 feet above sea level, you may be able to see some, or all, of the Seven Kingdoms - England, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, the Isle of Man and the kingdoms of heaven and the sea before taking the Mountain Railway back down to Laxey.

The Great Laxey Wheel is the Isle of Man's most iconic landmark and the largest working water wheel in the world.  At 72 feet 6 inches in diameter, this extraordinary feat of Victorian engineering has brought tourists flocking to the picturesque village of Laxey for almost 170 years.  See this magnificent wheel turning and take the spiral stairs to the top to enjoy panoramic views of Glen Mooar Valley. Beyond the wheel, learn about the lives of the Laxey Miners. Here you will have some free time in Laxey for lunch, take a closer look at the wheel and surrounding area, before boarding the coach for the Milntown Estate for House & Garden.  Set in the beautiful parish of Lezayre, Milntown is the island’s only Historical Estate and boasts 15 acres of beautiful gardens and woodland, which surround the magnificent mansion and café at its heart. Whilst here, you will enjoy tea/coffee & Scone with cream & jam. Dinner in the hotel.

17th September 2024:  After breakfast you depart Douglas for Port Erin on the Victorian Steam railway. The line dates back to 1874 and is a 3 gauge track and still uses its original steam locomotives and coaches! The train journey passes through the beautiful countryside, farmlands and along the coast. It used to include Peel, Foxdale and Ramsey, but the line was shortened to the 15 miles route. Sitting in the old-fashioned carriages as it shoogles its way along the tracks and watching the scenery pass by with the puff of steam floating by like clouds is magical. A great experience for adults and children.

In Port Erin you will have time for lunch and enjoy the beautiful bay bounded by two headlands. On northern headland, Bradda Head, sits the iconic memorial tower called Milner’s Tower. The promenade, on the east side of the bay, is somewhat higher than the seafront, and primarily consists of hotels, mostly built in the Victorian era. The town is famed for its views, including spectacular sunsets over Port Erin Bay and Bradda Head, as well as glimpses of the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland in the distance.

After time in Port Erin you board the coach to continue your journey to the Cregneash Village Folk Museum overlooking the Calf of Man. The village was one of the last strongholds of the Manx language and customs. You will find a number of thatched Manx cottages which are open for you to explore. You can also see evidence of their crofting way of life through stories, skills and craft demonstrations. Who knows you might even spot Manx cats with no tails, four-horned sheep, working horses and other traditional farming practices in action.

18th September 2024: Breakfast then travel to Peel where you will have some free time. Peel sits on the west coast of the island, is the only city on the Isle of Man, and has the island's cathedral. It is here visitors will find a variety of interests, including a large ruin castle from 1392. Fishing has a long history in Peel as it once was the island's main fishing port. To this day the harbour can be seen filled with boats of the fishing trade. It is here that Herring is cured to make the famous Manx kippers. There is an old style feel to the place with many narrow streets and small houses near the coast.

Our tour continues across the island to Castletown, where once again you will have some free time. Take a stroll around the ancient capital of Mann and discover the interesting facts and stories that this town has to tell. 

Capital of the Island until 1869, Castletown is made up of small winding streets, picturesque fishing cottages along the harbour and a Viking castle that towers over the centre of the town. Visit the famous Castle Rushen, one of the best preserved medieval castles in the world and listen to stories of the Lords of Mann that once resided there as well as the varied and fascinating history of this market town. Walk along the harbour which home to the world-famous Tin Bath Races as well as the site of the old Brewery and the large fishing vessels from its days as a thriving fishing port.  Remainder of the day will be at leisure in Douglas prior to dinner in the hotel.

19^th September 2024: Breakfast and check out to catch the ferry from Douglas to Heysham arriving back into Manchester late afternoon.

Your Hotel: Rutland Hotel, Douglas - The Rutland is located on the seafront of Douglas and has 64 rooms, all with en-suite bathrooms. Offering a full range of modern facilities and accessories, rooms at the 3 Star Rutland offer both great value and a quiet location. Guest enjoy complimentary Wi Fi and the Queens Carvery Restaurant offers both a buffet breakfast, and into the evenings a hearty Manx roast with a separate residents bar and entertainment. The hotel is situated close to the quiet Queens Promenade of Douglas, a pleasant walk to the many local bars, restaurants and retail area.

Price per person (Based on 2 Adults sharing Twin/Double Room):

• Member Plus Adult - £549
• Member Adult - £569                    
• Non Member Adult - £589                 
• Single Supplement - £64 (double/twin for sole occupancy)

Price Includes:

• Executive Coach & Professional Tour Driver throughout the tour as per itinerary
• Return ferry crossing (Heysham - Douglas)
• 4 Nights half board accommodation with Breakfast and 3 Course Choice Dinner including Tea/Coffee 
• Admission to Milntown Estate with tea/coffee & Scone
• Admission to Cregneash Estate
• Train journeys as detailed in the itinerary

Not Included:

• Single Supplement
• Any items of a personal nature such as meals, drinks, etc
• Guide/Driver Gratuities
• Travel Insurance

For further details and bookings, you can either use the  or contact BoThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Please include your Name, Home Address, Contact Telephone Number, Membership Number and the Number Places Required (Member/Non-Member)

 5th - 7th April 2024

A rugged coastline with a backdrop of the North York Moors National Park is the setting for the Yorkshire Coast’s resorts and fishing villages. This is a coastline of high cliffs and rocky shores, rich in flowers and wildlife. Follow the cliff top path for over 30 miles along the North Yorkshire Heritage Coast or visit one of the coastal resorts or villages.

ITINERARY

Eden Camp Modern History Museum is a family owned and run business that started over 30 years ago. Originally a prisoner of war camp, it was built on an agricultural plot on the outskirts of Malton in early 1942, by a small contingent of army personnel who had travelled from Castle Douglas, Scotland. Their task was to construct a barbed wire enclosure and erect tents to form a temporary camp to accommodate Italian prisoners of war that had been captured by Allied forces in North Africa. The camp’s location on Eden House Road earned it the name ‘Eden Camp’ and its first residents, 250 Italian prisoners were escorted from Oldham and marched through Malton to their new home. Once settled, they began work on constructing a larger and more permanent camp. At its peak, Eden Camp’s 45 huts were supplemented by a large area of tented accommodation and could house around 1200 prisoners at any one time. The Italian prisoners gave way to German POW in the summer of 1944, with the successful Allied invasion of Normandy. The German prisoners, like the Italians before them, were mainly put to work locally in agriculture and they lived in the huts at Eden Camp until 1948, when they were finally released, 3 years after the war had ended.In 1985, local businessman Stan Johnson bought the site and initially invested £750,000 to create, within the original Camp, the world’s only Modern History Theme Museum.

The huts have been re-equipped to tell the story of The People’s War, the social history of life in Britain from 1939 to 1945. So many Museums simply display exhibits in cabinets and are dull affairs, but not Eden Camp. Realistic tableaux, with moving figures, authentic sounds and smells have been created to “transport you back in time”. Each hut covers a different aspect of the war, starting with the rise of the Nazi Party, Hitler and The Outbreak of War. Other topics include: Rationing, the Utility Scheme, ‘Save It’ Campaigns, Evacuees, Propaganda, Home Guard, Home Front, The Blitz, Air Raid and Gas Precautions, Animals at War, The Street at War, Women at War, The Land Army and Timber Girls, The Munition Factories, The Observer Corps, The Auxiliary Fire Service, The WVS, The Red Cross, Civil Defence, The Rescue Services, The Bevin Boys, etc. The museum houses the most comprehensive public display of 20th Century British Military history in the world.

Leaving Eden Camp late afternoon we will continue our journey to the New Southlands Hotel, Scarborough. Check-in and Dinner at the hotel.

6^th April 2024: After breakfast we depart for Whitby for the planned walk. This 5.25 mile circular walk starts from the harbour bridge and climbs away from the town towards Whitby lighthouse. The section along the clifftop past Saltwick Bay affords wonderful sea and cliff views.  The walk then heads back into Whitby via the ruins of Whitby Abbey and then down 199 steps back into town.  The walk is mainly on good paths, but the section along the cliff top could be muddy after periods of rain.  It is advisable to wear good walking shoes or boots - walking poles may be useful, too.               

Whitby is constantly being voted as one of the UK’s top seaside destinations for holidaymakers. This unique town and fishing port is situated on the East coast of Yorkshire at the mouth of the River Esk. It has a completely special atmosphere and rich cultural history. With its towering cliffs soaring high on the ancient East Side and dramatic landscapes ushering in the modern West Cliff. The town of Whitby has a legacy that is steeped in history, culture, and myth. It was once famous for its fishing and whaling industries and to this day there are relics and monuments that commemorate this. The whalebone arch and the statue of Captain Cook stand as reminders of Whitby’s nautical history. 

For the non-walkers you can either enjoy the leisure time in Whitby or if you so wish stay in Scarborough. With Its two bays with sandy beaches which are split by a headland bearing the 12th-century Scarborough Castle. The Victorian Central Tramway funicular train links the town centre with South Bay and its harbour. The Rotunda Museum explores local coastal geology. Scarborough SEA LIFE Sanctuary’s marine displays and the Peasholm Park Japanese gardens are behind North Bay.  Mid-afternoon we say farewell to Whitby and travel back to Scarborough for rest of the day. Time at leisure prior to dinner at the hotel.

7^th April 2024:   After breakfast and check-out we depart Scarborough for Grosmont and our North Yorkshire Moors Steam Railway journey to Pickering. The NYMR traces its origins back to 1832 when the Whitby and Pickering Railway was launched to encourage trade and passenger traffic to Whitby, which was suffering a downturn in trade. The railway was intended to carry coal, limestone, timber, and stone, as well as passengers. When rail travel was nationalised in the 20th century the North York Moors line became part of British Rail. Modernising spelled the end of the line, as diesel replaced steam and cost-cutting measures eventually brought operation to an end in 1965.From Pickering we continue our journey westwards across the North Yorkshire Moors to Helmsley.  Here we will visit the National Birds of Prey Centre and have some time to explore Helmsley. This picturesque market town on the banks of the River Rye has a gracious setting, sheltered beneath the remains of a medieval castle. The fine market square and ancient market cross as well as some delightful alleys and independent shops. The fine market square is dominated by the 19th-century Feversham memorial – the family seat is at Duncombe Park, on the edge of town, whose woods and grounds are a National Nature Reserve, home to many ancient trees 

and bird species. The ruins and walls of Helmsley Castle tower over the town, while All Saints, the Parish Church, contains some interesting murals which illustrate the history of the church and the parish. Another peaceful corner is Helmsley Walled Garden, dating from the 1750s and originally used to provide fruit, vegetables and cut flowers for Duncombe Park.

The National Centre for Birds of Prey is situated at Duncombe Park and holds the largest collection of raptors in the north of England.

 Depart Helmsley late afternoon for an early evening arrival back into the Manchester area.

Your Hotel: New Southlands Hotel, Scarborough - The New Southlands Hotel is a handsome, intimate property perfectly situated on Scarborough’s South Cliff. From the hotel, the Esplanade, Italian Rose Gardens and South Bay are easily accessible. Scarborough itself retains much of the character of an elegant Victorian seaside town, with handsome architecture and walkways, as well as boasting more modern entertainments and attractions. The hotel possesses all of the amenities and facilities you would expect. All rooms have Private facilities, TV, Tea/Coffee and free Wi-fi.

Price per person (Based on 2 Adults sharing Twin/Double Room):

• Member Plus Adult - £249
• Member Adult - £259                    
• Non Member Adult - £269                 
• Single Supplement - £40 

Price Includes:

• 2 Nights Accommodation including Full English Breakfast and 3-course, choice menu dinner with tea/coffee
• Executive Coach & Professional Tour Driver throughout the tour as per itinerary                   
• Buffet Lunch at The Stone Trough
• Admission to Eden Camp    
• Admission to the National Centre for Birds of Prey   
• Train journey as detailed in the itinerary       

Not Included:

• Single Supplement
• Any items of a personal nature such as meals, drinks, etc
• Guide/Driver Gratuities
• Travel Insurance

For further details and bookings, you can either use the  or contactThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Please include your Name, Home Address, Contact Telephone Number, Membership Number and the Number Places Required (Member/Non-Member)

Walking or Leisure - A Day on the Fylde Coast – 21^st October 2023

Why not join us on this day out on the Fylde Coast for a walk from Fairhaven Lake & Gardens through to Blackpool North Pier or a just leisurely day on the Fylde Coast.  

This is a 7.5 mile coastal walk on the flat from Fairhaven to Blackpool North Pier and should take approximately 3½ hours to complete.

There are several places along the route with toilets and refreshments.

The walk is on good paths/pavements and promenades. If you so wish you can do parts of this walk along the beach and through the sand dunes, at your own risk, but access depends on high tide times.

After the walk you will have a few hours in Blackpool at leisure to explore the sights and catch some of the illuminations.

Don’t fancy the walk, then you will have leisure time in Lytham St Annes, before travelling up to Blackpool and if you so wish a visit to Affinity Lancashire (formerly Fleetwood Freeport).

The coach will return from Blackpool early evening.

Fairhaven: Fairhaven Lake has been restored to its former glory as one of the most popular parks on the Fylde Coast. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and open green spaces, it’s where the Irish Sea meets the estuary of the River Ribble. The lake extends northwards as far as St Pauls Avenue, where you’ll find the Spitfire Memorial. This great big outdoor area has plenty of good facilities too. Enjoy traditional amusements and walks, fresh air and the beautiful coastline. Get an ice cream or hot drink from one of the little take-aways, or enjoy refreshments at one of the cafes near the lake. Plus, of course, there are public toilets!

Lytham St Annes: Just two miles from the bright lights of Blackpool, it is worlds apart in both character and atmosphere. The seaside town is nestled along a picturesque stretch of coastline lined with the well tended lawns, a boating lake and pretty parks. With an expansive sandy beach, Victorian pier and stylish independent shops, Lytham St Annes continue to remind us why we all love the British seaside so much.

Blackpool: The seaside resort is known for Blackpool Pleasure Beach, an old-school amusement park with vintage wooden roller coasters. Built in 1894, the landmark Blackpool Tower houses a circus, a glass viewing platform and the Tower Ballroom, where dancers twirl to the music of a Wurlitzer organ. Blackpool Illuminations is an annual light show along the Promenade.

Affinity Lancashire (Fleetwood Freeport): Affinity is Lancashire's Outlet Shopping Destination! Home to over 40 top brands; you'll find everything you need at amazingly low prices. Shop Men's, Women's & Children's wear alongside footwear, homeware and beauty - all at up to 60% off RRP. You'll also find plenty of places to eat, drink and relax.

Price Per person: 

• Adult Member Plus (Members with Lottery Share) - £22
• Adult Members (No Lottery Shares) - £23
• Adult Non-Member - £24
• Child Member Plus (Members with Lottery Share) - £8
• Child Members (No Lottery Shares) - £8.50
• Child Non-Member - £9
• Child Under 5 - FREE

Look What's included:

• Map of the Walk 
• Coach Transport

What's NOT included:

• Any items of a personal nature such as meals, drinks, etc

For further details and bookings, you can either use the Reservation Form or contact Bob Walker 

Please include your Name, Home Address, Contact Telephone Number, Membership Number and the Number Places Required (Member/Non-Member)