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It’s time for
WILTSHIRE Travel Trade Guide
visitwiltshire.co.uk
VISITWILTSHIRE
2020 and Beyond
In 2020 Salisbury Cathedral
celebrates 800 years of
Since its launch in 2018, the
Great West Way ® has gone from
the park. Mysterious and enigmatic,
the Stonehenge and Avebury
enterprise, culture and strength to strength. Offering an World Heritage Site has a
innovation, marking the creation extraordinary variety of English magnetism that has drawn people
of this medieval masterpiece with experiences, this exciting touring to it for centuries. Other attractions
a city-wide programme of events route between London and Bristol that should feature on your itinerary
and activities. The Old Bell Hotel is about so much more than include the stately homes and
celebrates its 800th birthday simply getting from A to B. gardens at Bowood, Stourhead
too. Castle Combe Circuit its The Great West Way is for those and Lydiard Park, Great Chalfield
70th. Edington Music Festival who want to explore further and Manor and Iford Manor Gardens.
its 65th and Cotswold Wildlife delve deeper. The curious traveller, Museums such as REME, telling
Park its 50th. And with festivals for whom the journey is as the story of the Royal Electrical
and events at the heart of the important as the destination. and Mechanical Engineers. Animal
Wiltshire experience there’ll be Along the Great West Way the attractions including Cholderton,
plenty more to enjoy, around the world-renowned rubs shoulders Longleat and Studley Grange.
county and throughout the year. with the yet-to-be-discovered and Fine examples of our industrial
as your visitors explore its endless heritage can be found at STEAM
With over 500 fabulous courses twists and turns, they’ll encounter Museum. While McArthurGlen
to choose from, Marlborough the very essence of England. Designer Outlet offers designer
College Summer School provides Find out more on pages 12-15 brands at discounts of up to 60%.
an outstanding programme for all of this guide, or go to
ages. Solsticefest returns for a GreatWestWay.co.uk
12th exciting year. While Wyvern
Theatre’s season of music, comedy, Around a quarter of the Great
drama and more is guaranteed to West Way lies within Wiltshire,
offer plenty of appeal. For details home of rolling green downs,
of these and many more arts and ancient woodlands and bustling
entertainment opportunities, turn market towns. Timeless
to the Highlights and Key Events monuments and contemporary
sections of this guide, or go to luxury. Local ales and picnics in
visitwiltshire.co.uk/whats-on
Looking ahead to summer 2021,
Wessex Museums will be taking
a fresh look at the life and literature
of Victorian novelist and poet
Thomas Hardy.
> Salisbury Cathedral
2 visitwiltshire.co.uk/groups
TRAVEL TRADE GUIDE
Contents
Uncover layer upon layer of history as Highlights 4-5
you discover Salisbury Cathedral and Key Events 6-7
Magna Carta, Mompesson House
Book a Wiltshire Tour 8-9
and Old Sarum. Take time to explore
charming market towns such as Bradford Special Interest Tours 10-11
on Avon and Corsham. Stroll through the Great West Way 12-13
picturesque villages of Lacock and
Wiltshire on the Great West Way 14-15
Castle Combe. Browse our independent
shops. Treat yourself in our cafés, Inspirational Itineraries 16-19
pubs and restaurants. Discover our Local Guides, Tour Operators and Transport 20, 21, 43
breathtaking countryside. A Starring Role 21
Travel trade visitors can expect a warm Outstanding Attractions 22-29
welcome from accommodation providers 10 Top Reasons to Visit Wiltshire 30
across Wiltshire. Whether you are a tour
operator or a group travel organiser, an Christmas in Wiltshire 31
FIT professional or a specialist in small or Exceptional Entertainment and Events 32-33
large groups, this is the perfect destination Timeless Towns and Villages 34-38
for your next day trip, short break or longer
Refreshment Stops 38-41
excursion. Wiltshire is just 90 minutes
from London, an hour from the south Fun-packed Activities 42
coast, and two hours from the Midlands or Places to Stay 43-47
Wales. Everywhere along the Great West
Helping You Sell Wiltshire 48-49
Way is easily accessible too. For details go
to visitwiltshire.co.uk/plan-your-visit or Attraction Map References 50
greatwestway.co.uk/plan-your-way General Information 50
So be sure to include Wiltshire in your Map of Wiltshire 51
travel plans for 2020 – there’s always time
for Wiltshire.
Wiltshire at
Get Social your fingertips
Share your Wiltshire stories For further information on the enormous range of
using #timeforwiltshire group-friendly things to see and do around the county
go to visitwiltshire.co.uk/groups
@VisitWiltshire For our inspirational series of Wiltshire films see
visitwiltshire.co.uk/videos
VisitWiltshireLtd To receive all the latest information on special offers,
competitions and more, sign up for our newsletter
@visitwiltshire today at visitwiltshire.co.uk/groups
Front cover photo: Kennet & Avon Canal
VisitWiltshire at Bradford on Avon (© Neville Stanikk)
groups@visitwiltshire.co.uk 3
VISITWILTSHIRE
Highlights
800th
ANNIVERSARY
CELEBRATIONS
In 2020, eight centuries after its
first foundation stone was laid,
Salisbury Cathedral is celebrating
its 800th anniversary with a
programme of events and activities
throughout the year. Highlights
include Sarum Lights, a spectacular
sound and light show inside and
outside the Cathedral; a summer-
long exhibition of contemporary art
including works by Henry Moore and
Grayson Perry; and a feast for all the
senses at a stunning six-day flower
festival in Salisbury Cathedral.
www.salisburycathedral.org.uk
REOPENING OF
THE MUSEUM
TROWBRIDGE MUSEUM
August 2020
Following two years of renovation and
expansion, we re-open to the public
in August 2020. Exciting new features
include a state-of-the-art learning
hub, a library and research facility,
interactives and sensory experiences.
www.trowbridgemuseum.co.uk
4 visitwiltshire.co.uk/groups
TRAVEL TRADE GUIDE
WARTIME BRITAIN
REME MUSEUM
Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 May 2020
To celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE day we will have
period vehicles on display, reenactors, and an arena event
of artillery guns driving in and firing their artillery pieces,
so be prepared for some very loud bangs!
www.rememuseum.org.uk
FOOD & MUSIC
FESTIVAL
LONGLEAT
Saturday 4 & Sunday 5 July 2020
This early-summer Food & Drink
Festival has a spectacular makeover
for 2020, with even more extraordinary
live music acts gracing the stage,
alongside a bustling Market Street of
delicious food and drink stalls, celebrity
chef demonstrations, Viscountess
Weymouth’s Luxury Afternoon Teas,
and more. www.longleat.co.uk
STAR OF THE SCREEN
IFORD MANOR GARDENS
Make 2020 the year you visit
these award-winning, Grade I listed
gardens largely designed by Harold
Peto when Iford was his home –
fresh from their role as a key location
in the cinema version of The Secret
Garden starring Colin Firth and Julie
Walters (releasing April 2020).
www.ifordmanor.co.uk
groups@visitwiltshire.co.uk 5
VISITWILTSHIRE
Key Events
See photo credits
YOUR STONEHENGE: 150 years of personal photos SPIRIT AND ENDEAVOUR
Stonehenge December 2019-August 2020 Salisbury Cathedral
Take a trip down memory lane at this new special Wednesday 1 April-Sunday 25 October 2020
exhibition. Featuring holiday snaps from as early as A major exhibition of contemporary art featuring 20 iconic
1875, it provides a fascinating and fun insight into how and important pieces by notable artists such as Henry
people have visited Stonehenge through the decades. Moore and Grayson Perry. Private art tours available for
www.english-heritage.org.uk/stonehenge pre-booked groups. www.salisburycathedral.org.uk
MARLBOROUGH COLLEGE SUMMER SCHOOL SKY SAFARI
Marlborough College Longleat
Sunday 12 July-Saturday 8 August 2020 Friday 11-Sunday 13 September 2020
With over 500 courses for all ages, Marlborough This year the biggest annual hot air balloon festival
College Summer School’s programme is updated in Europe will be bigger, bolder and balloon-ier than
every year to keep things fresh and exciting. ever, as the skies come to life with all the colours
www.summerschool.co.uk of the rainbow. www.longleat.co.uk
SWINDON RAILWAY FESTIVAL GREEN MAN FESTIVAL
STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Bradford on Avon Saturday 16 May 2020
Saturday 5 & Sunday 6 September 2020 A fantastic day of folk dance and music; at least
An annual celebration of steam railways combining 28 dance groups performing at six town centre
some of the best and largest model railway layouts in locations, that’s about 230 dancers and 60
the country with STEAM Museum’s famous locomotives musicians led by our 10ft giant Jack in the Green.
and interactive exhibits. www.steam-museum.org.uk www.bradfordonavon.co.uk
6 visitwiltshire.co.uk/groups
TRAVEL TRADE GUIDE
TASTE OF CORSHAM FOOD FESTIVAL Inspired? Mompesson House and the Creative Arts
Corsham Mompesson House, Salisbury
Saturday 13 June 2020 Saturday 7 March-Sunday 1 November 2020
An interactive food and drink experience with artisan Highlighting pieces from the collection, this
market stalls, sampling tents, food and drink sellers, exhibition explores how Mompesson has
master classes, guest speakers and entertainment. inspired and continues to inspire creativity.
www.corsham.gov.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mompesson-house
OPEN AIR THEATRE SCULPTURE EXHIBITION
Lydiard Park Avebury Manor & Garden
Romeo and Juliet: Friday 24 July 2020 Saturday 5 September-Sunday 11 October 2020
The Jungle Book: Friday 7 August 2020 Why not visit the garden at Avebury Manor and
The Three Musketeers: Friday 21 August 2020 discover works of art from different sculptors?
www.lydiardpark.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/avebury
SOLSTICEFEST RHODODENDRON AND WOODLAND GARDENS
Stonehenge Campsite & Glamping Pods Bowood House & Gardens
Thursday 18-Sunday 21 June 2020 Mid April-June 2020
A four-day mini-festival celebrating the Solstice Over 30 spectacular acres of azaleas, magnolias
season in the relaxed and magical atmosphere and rhododendrons offering breathtaking colour
of Salisbury Plain. and beauty.
www.solsticefest.co.uk www.bowood.org
groups@visitwiltshire.co.uk 7
VISITWILTSHIRE
> Great Chalfield Manor
BOOK A
Wiltshire TOUR
HISTORY & HORTICULTURE TOUR
This tour can be tailor-made for your group visit to include some
of Wiltshire’s beautiful stately homes and gardens. Possibilities
include Longleat, Bowood, Stourhead, Great Chalfield Manor,
Arundells, and Iford Manor Gardens. Minimum one-night packages
available for 20+ people. To discuss your requirements and to
book, contact Norman Allen Group Travel Ltd at normanallen@
group-travel.com quoting reference ‘VWGardens’.
> Old Wardour Castle
WILTSHIRE’S SECRETS TOUR
This tour can be tailor-made for your group visit to Wiltshire,
taking in some of the ‘lesser known’ places the county has to
offer. Tours could include visits to Bradford on Avon, Avebury, Lacock,
Wadworth Brewery, Great Chalfield Manor, Old Wardour Castle,
The Merchant’s House, Arundells and many more. Minimum
one-night packages available for 20+ people. To discuss your
requirements and to book, contact Norman Allen Group Travel Ltd at
normanallen@group-travel.com quoting reference ‘VWSecrets’.
8 visitwiltshire.co.uk/groups
TRAVEL TRADE GUIDE
> Stonehenge
THE SALISBURY, STONEHENGE AND AVEBURY TOUR
Visiting Salisbury? Then this tour is a must! Your guide will take you through the history of beautiful Salisbury
Cathedral, ‘mysterious’ Stonehenge and ‘magical’ Avebury stone circle. With stops at Alton Barnes White
Horse, West Kennet Long Barrow and Silbury Hill, you will visit some of Wiltshire’s ‘historical treasures’.
Collection can be arranged from airports, hotels and even London – for details call Salisbury, Stonehenge
& Sarum Tours on 01722 333333. Find out more and book at visitwiltshire.co.uk/shop
> Bombay Sapphire
Distillery
Mammoth Screen
> Boscombe Down
> Filming Poldark in Corsham Aviation Collection
FILM & TV A TASTE OF ARMED FORCES
LOCATIONS OF WILTSHIRE TOUR AND THE STORY OF
WILTSHIRE TOUR TRANSPORT TOUR
This tour can be tailor-made
This tour takes in the best of for your group visit to Wiltshire.
This tour can be tailor-made
Wiltshire’s film and TV locations, Possibilities include Wadworth
for your group visit to Wiltshire
including Poldark (Corsham), Brewery, Ramsbury Brewery
to include Boscombe>Down Gre??????
Wolf Hall (Great Chalfield & Distillery, Cookery Schools,
Aviation Collection, STEAM
Manor and Lacock Abbey), Bombay Sapphire Distillery,
Museum, REME Museum and
Harry Potter (Lacock), The Bridge Tea Rooms, Britford
even a journey on the Kennet
War Horse and Dr Dolittle Farm Shop and the Bluestone
& Avon Canal. Minimum one-
(Castle Combe) and many more. Vineyards at Cholderton Farm.
night packages available for
Minimum one-night packages Minimum one-night packages
20+ people. To discuss your
available for 20+ people. available for 20+ people.
requirements and to book,
To discuss your requirements To discuss your requirements
contact Norman Allen Group
and to book, contact Norman and to book, contact Norman
Travel Ltd at normanallen@
Allen Group Travel Ltd at Allen Group Travel Ltd at
group-travel.com quoting
normanallen@group-travel.com normanallen@group-travel.com
reference ‘VWTransport’.
quoting reference ‘VWFilm’. quoting reference ‘VWTaste’.
groups@visitwiltshire.co.uk 9
VISITWILTSHIRE
SPECIAL
Interest TOURS
LONGLEAT
Discover Longleat House and Grounds with
a number of fascinating tours, exclusively
for groups. Choose from the Longleat House
Exclusive Tour; the Mystery Tour; or the
Scandalous History Tour. Book via groups@
longleat.co.uk or telephone 01985 844328.
www.longleat.co.uk/groups
SALISBURY CATHEDRAL
If you have a head for heights book a tour to the BOWOOD
base of Britain’s tallest spire and enjoy spectacular
views of the largest close in the country and its Groups can enjoy an exclusive guided tour of Lord
surrounding water-meadows. Or join an expert and Lady Lansdowne’s Private Walled Garden, set
guide on a visit to the Cathedral’s 15th century within the beautifully landscaped ‘Capability’ Brown
library with its fascinating collection of ancient parkland. Explore the Georgian family home with a
books, a graffiti tour showcasing medieval carpentry House Tour, which includes the story of Dr Priestley’s
markings, a tour of the stained glass inside, or a discovery of oxygen. From mid-April through to
visit to the works yard where stonemasons carve June, make the most of the Woodland Gardens,
or explore the Cathedral Close. Pre-booked groups with 30 acres of bluebells, azaleas, magnolias and
only – email groups@salcath.co.uk or telephone rhododendrons. For more information please call
01722 512190. www.salisburycathedral.org.uk 01249 812102 or visit www.bowood.org
10 visitwiltshire.co.uk/groupsTRAVEL TRADE GUIDE
AVEBURY
Stone circle tour: Find out all about the largest
stone circle in the world on this volunteer-led WYVERN THEATRE
guided tour. West Kennet Avenue tour: Walk the
length of this spectacular megalithic stone row See behind the curtain and explore the backstage
for roughly 800m. Our volunteer guide will explain secrets of show business on a Tea and Tour
all about this enigmatic structure. Archaeologist- package. Tread the boards and view the
led tour: A bespoke tour of the Avebury World auditorium from the stars’ point of view. Then
Heritage Site with a National Trust archaeologist. relax over a delicious afternoon tea. Email
Contact: avebury@nationaltrust.org.uk for details. sarah@wyverntheatre.org.uk to book, or telephone
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/avebury 01793 524481. www.swindontheatres.co.uk
REME MUSEUM
Throughout the year, specifically for groups, we will be offering
two new options that can be combined with a visit to the main
Museum: a tour of the Reserve Collections (80 British and foreign
military armoured and wheeled vehicles, including some prototypes
that never came into service) at a separate hanger, 5-minutes’
drive away; and a behind-the-scenes talk with the Archives team,
to see and hear about their chosen 20 most interesting items.
www.rememuseum.org.uk
IFORD MANOR BLUESTONE
GARDENS VINEYARDS
Enjoy this beautiful, family- Guided vineyard walks
run, Grade I listed garden and and wine tastings
its tranquil surrounds on an for individuals and
exclusive visit. Once home to groups from £15pp.
Harold Peto, tours are available Tailored wine tour
on its history, development, packages, extended
restoration, architecture and/ wine tastings and
or planting. Visits to the family’s indulgent afternoon
private walled garden also teas available, and we also
possible. Please contact us host weddings. For more
for details and prices: information and to book visit
www.ifordmanor.co.uk www.bluestonevineyards.co.uk
groups@visitwiltshire.co.uk 11VISITWILTSHIRE
Great
West Way ®
We invite you to explore the Stay in one place for a while, or Visitors can enjoy Newbury’s
Great West Way. An exciting new move on every day – if you add in canalside pubs and restaurants.
touring route combining the all the tempting trails and off-the- Discover Reading’s Museum and
world-renowned with the yet-to-be- beaten-track detours there are Abbey Quarter. Trawl Hungerford’s
discovered. At one end is London 500 miles or more to explore. antique shops and fairs then sample
with its royal sights and rich cultural seasonal produce at Cobbs Farm
heritage; at the other, elegant Bath Along the Great West Way are Shop & Kitchen. Take a pleasure
and vibrant Bristol. Between lie three Areas of Outstanding cruise along the Royal River Thames.
lush green landscapes, characterful Natural Beauty: the Chilterns, the Admire sumptuous Georgian gowns
villages, and relaxing riverside towns. Cotswolds and the North Wessex at the Fashion Museum. Follow
Downs, and the UNESCO World in the footsteps of prehistoric man
There are many ways for your visitors
Heritage Sites of Stonehenge at Cheddar Gorge and Caves. Or
to experience the Great West Way.
unearth amazing archaeology at the
They can travel by road, rail or water. and Avebury, Kew Gardens,
Roman Baths. Stand on the site
On two feet or two wheels. Blenheim Palace and Bath.
of the sealing of Magna Carta at
Runnymede. Step aboard the last
Concorde ever made at Aerospace
Bristol. Enjoy a wine tour and tasting
at Alder Ridge Vineyard. Or soak
in the UK’s only natural hot springs
at Thermae Bath Spa. Watch the
Changing of the Guard at Windsor
Castle. Sample award-winning real
ale at West Berkshire Brewery. Stroll
through 15,000 extraordinary trees at
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum.
Lose themselves in the hedge maze
> The Jane Austen Festival at Hampton Court Palace. Or tour a
delightful National Trust property.
12 visitwiltshire.co.uk/groupsTRAVEL TRADE GUIDE
Great West Way
Discoverer pass
> Changing of the Guard For an easy, hassle-free journey The Domestic pass is available as
along the Great West Way, 1-day and 7-day options; the
book a Great West Way International pass as 3-day and
The Great West Way offers an
Discoverer pass – with a choice 7-day options. Prices start from
extraordinary variety of English
of East, West and Global options, just £24 per person.
experiences. As visitors follow its
there’s one that’s right for you.
twists and turns, they’ll encounter You can buy online at at GWR.com,
the very essence of England. To What’s included: from VisitBritainShop.com or from
make the most of all that the Great your local station. If you are travelling
West Way has to offer, visitors will Unlimited Off-Peak train travel
from overseas, international passes
want to stay for a while and immerse from London Paddington along the
(similar to a BritRail pass) can be
themselves in local life. The Royal route to Bristol Temple Meads via
purchased online at ACPRail.com
Crescent Hotel & Spa in Bath is Reading, with options to branch
or via your travel agent.
a Georgian gem and we also have off towards Oxford, and Salisbury
quirky glamping sites, pretty country via Westbury (or London Waterloo So book a Great West Way Discoverer
B&Bs, cool city hotels… even stately to Salisbury with South Western pass today and make the most of your
homes and castles. Railway). It also includes unlimited Great West Way adventure. For further
bus travel on selected services details see GreatWestWay.co.uk
For international and domestic along the route. or go to GWR.com
visitors alike, the Great West Way
is easy to join and easy to follow.
It passes by both Heathrow and London. It will take them to places For suggested itineraries
Bristol airports. It’s accessible for they’ve always dreamed of seeing, and bookable product go to
visitors travelling from the Channel and secret spots that even some GreatWestWay.co.uk/traveltrade
ports and those already based in locals have yet to discover.
groups@visitwiltshire.co.uk 13VISITWILTSHIRE
WILTSHIRE
on the
Great West Way ®
> McArthurGlen
Designer Outlet Swindon
Around a quarter of the Great Malmesbury, England’s oldest
West Way runs through Wiltshire. borough. Or stroll through the
Past white horse carvings that have handsome former staging post of
watched over the Vale of Pewsey for Marlborough. Swindon is renowned
generations. Across rolling hillsides for its entertainment and leisure
in the North Wessex Downs. opportunities; Trowbridge for its
Along routes that brought druids to unique industrial architecture.
Stonehenge, drovers to market,
Much of the Great West Way’s
pilgrims to Salisbury Cathedral.
appeal lies in its extraordinary
Many of Wiltshire’s timeless towns variety. The Stonehenge and
and villages are within easy reach Avebury World Heritage Site may > Stonehenge
of the Great West Way. As well as well feature on your itinerary. But
being fascinating places to visit in allow time to discover Wiltshire’s at Lydiard Park; see a show at
their own right, they make excellent lesser known attractions too: relax Wyvern Theatre & Arts Centre.
stopping off points for lunch along aboard a narrowboat on the Within easy reach of the Great West
your journey. Marvel at Bradford Kennet & Avon Canal; ‘drive’ a Way is the medieval city of Salisbury
on Avon’s 14th century tithe train simulator at STEAM - Museum which has so much to offer. Take a
barn. Visit the ‘discovery’ town of the Great Western Railway; tower tour at Salisbury Cathedral
of Calne. Seek out the wealth of shop till you drop at McArthurGlen and wander around the beautiful
historic buildings in Chippenham. Designer Outlet Swindon; stroll Cathedral Close.
Follow in the footsteps of Poldark in around ‘Capability’ Brown parkland
Corsham. Discover the rich heritage at Bowood House and Gardens; Afternoon tea is an English
of Georgian houses in Devizes. take up a new hobby on a course institution, and where better to
Wander around the National Trust at Marlborough College Summer sample a sumptuous spread than
village of Lacock. Explore hilltop School; tour the Palladian House The Red Lion and Legacy Rose
14 visitwiltshire.co.uk/groupsTRAVEL TRADE GUIDE
> Kennet & Avon Canal
> Lacock
& Crown hotels in Salisbury, Rail connections are excellent,
The Old Bell Hotel in Malmesbury, linking Wiltshire with London’s
or The Bridge Tea Rooms in Paddington and Waterloo stations
Bradford on Avon. An authentic at one end, Bristol and Bath at the
English pub experience is equally other. Within 90 minutes, or less,
hard to beat. So allow time for your of leaving the capital your visitors
visitors to settle down at one of can be here, enjoying authentic
Wiltshire’s many traditional inns. English experiences and creating
lasting memories.
If their Great West Way adventure
includes an overnight stay, they’ll Discover an essential strand
find B&B, self-catering, farm stay, of England’s story at > Bradford on Avon
glamping and hotel options aplenty. GreatWestWay.co.uk
groups@visitwiltshire.co.uk 15VISITWILTSHIRE
INSPIRATIONAL
Itineraries
4
A ROYAL JOURNEY
ALONG THE
Great West Way ® > St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle
Following a road commissioned Or Castle Hotel Windsor MGallery Day 3: Malmesbury and
by King Charles I, nowhere is by Sofitel – having begun life Berkeley Castle
as quintessentially English or in 1528 as The Mermaid, in the
Explore Malmesbury, England’s
thoroughly royal as the Great 1700s it was awarded the first of oldest borough, including the
West Way. Here’s how to enjoy its eight Royal Warrants. 12th century Abbey where you
a royal journey along the route:
Day 2: Windsor will find the tomb of Athelstan,
Day 1: Hampton Court Palace first king of all England. Then
Start the day with a Tours2Order move on to Berkeley Castle –
Home to King Henry VIII and all walking tour, before visiting given to the family in 1153 by
six of his wives, Hampton Court Windsor Castle, the oldest and Henry II, it has received royal
Palace was a royal residence largest inhabited castle in the world. guests ever since and is open
until 1737. Visit the sumptuous Queen Victoria spent most of her to visitors from April to October.
Baroque apartments, then stroll time there and it is Queen Elizabeth
through 60 acres of beautiful Overnight: There are plenty
II’s favourite weekend home.
riverside gardens. From here, of hotels to choose from in
St George’s Chapel within the
head to Runnymede to visit Bristol – see visitbristol.co.uk/
grounds of the Castle was the
the Magna Carta Memorial and accommodation/hotels
setting for the wedding of the
Kennedy Memorial. Then take Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Day 4: Bristol
a 2½ hour French Brothers Tour the State Apartments and
Visit Brunel’s SS Great Britain,
boat trip along the Royal River Chapel, then drive to Malmesbury
launched by Prince Albert in
Thames, admiring Windsor for an overnight stay.
1843 and visited by Queen
Castle from on board. Overnight: Stay in Malmesbury at Victoria when it was docked in
Overnight: Stay in Windsor at either The Old Bell Hotel – family- London in 1845. Then enjoy a
either Sir Christopher Wren owned, it is reputed to be England’s drink at Prince Street Social,
Hotel – located right on the River oldest. Or Whatley Manor Hotel a welcoming modern-style
Thames, within walking distance & Spa – a beautiful English manor restaurant and bar, before
of all Windsor’s attractions. house in a picture perfect setting. heading home.
> French Brothers Cruise
> The Long Walk, Windsor > Hampton Court Palace
16 visitwiltshire.co.uk/groupsTRAVEL TRADE GUIDE
• STEAM Museum 2
EXPECT THE • McArthurGlen Designer Outlet
• Swindon & Cricklade Railway
UNEXPECTED • Lydiard Park
Swindon •
•
Studley Grange Garden & Leisure Park
REME Museum • Wyvern Theatre
> Studley Grange
Day 1
Overnight: Swindon Area and Leisure Park. Meet otters,
AM: Spend the morning at (eg Cricklade House Hotel or goats, meerkats and more in
STEAM – Museum of the Great Doubletree by Hilton Hotel). the outdoor Animal Paddock.
Western Railway, housed in Then pick up a souvenir at the
the Grade II listed buildings of Day 2 craft village. Time permitting,
Brunel’s former railway works. AM: First stop today is historic take a detour to REME Museum
Lunch: Various options at Lydiard Park. Stroll around the in Lyneham to discover the
McArthurGlen Designer Outlet. 18th century walled garden and history of the Royal Electrical
formal parkland, then tour elegant and Mechanical Engineers.
PM: Avid shoppers can hunt
staterooms in the magnificent Evening: With a varied
for bargains at McArthurGlen
Palladian house. programme including concerts,
Designer Outlet, on the same site
as STEAM, where over 100 stores Lunch: Swindon area. comedy, drama and dance,
sell a range of designer and high a performance at Swindon’s
PM: Be transported to the tropics
street labels at discounts of up to Wyvern Theatre & Arts Centre
as you take a magical walk
60%. While train buffs can continue makes a great way to round off
through hundreds of the world’s
the steam theme at Swindon & your visit.
most beautiful butterflies at
Cricklade Railway, nearby. Studley Grange Garden Overnight: Swindon area.
1+
Salisbury •
•
•
Salisbury Cathedral
The Salisbury Museum
Mompesson House
AGELESS BEAUTY, • The Rifles Berkshire & Wiltshire Museum
CAPTIVATING • St Thomas’s Church
HISTORY • Old Sarum • Fisherton Mill
> Market Place
Day 1
AM: Begin your day with a visit to museum, part historic house Salisbury’s enchanting Christmas
Salisbury Cathedral in its 800th and part riverside garden. Fayre will be in full swing.
anniversary year. Highlights include Lunch: Salisbury Area Evening: Choose from a wide range
Britain’s tallest spire and the finest of entertainment options at Salisbury
PM: Discover another of the Close Arts Centre, Salisbury Playhouse and
original 1215 Magna Carta.
attractions, visit St Thomas’s Church City Hall Salisbury.
Pre-book a tower tour for wide-
to see the UK’s largest surviving
ranging views across the city. Overnight: If you have time,
Doom Painting, or explore the Iron extend your visit with an overnight
After elevenses at one of several Age hillfort of Old Sarum. Within
cafés in the Close, visit any of the stay (eg Red Lion Hotel or
the city centre you will also find a Rose & Crown Hotel) to take in
other attractions there to uncover range of unique, independent shops, Boscombe Down Aviation Collection,
layer upon layer of history: including Fisherton Mill with its River Bourne Community Farm,
The Salisbury Museum, with its gallery, café and artist studios. On Salisbury Racecourse or
world-class archaeology collections. Tuesdays and Saturdays (except the Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm
The National Trust’s Mompesson third Tuesday in October) you can and Bluestone Vineyards.
House, a glorious Queen Anne experience the hustle and bustle of Guided tours are available from several
townhouse. The Rifles Berkshire the popular Charter Market, and if you companies, including Salisbury,
& Wiltshire Museum: part military visit towards the end of the year, Stonehenge and Sarum Tours.
groups@visitwiltshire.co.uk 17VISITWILTSHIRE
WILTSHIRE’S 2
Timeless • Stonehenge • The Salisbury Museum
Wonders • White Horses • Avebury • Silbury Hill
• West Kennet Long Barrow • Wiltshire Museum
> Silbury Hill
Day 1 collections of finds from Stonehenge, village. While you are here, be
AM: Along with Avebury and as well as the Monkton Deverill sure to visit the Alexander Keiller
Gold Torc and the grave of the Museum and Avebury Manor &
other associated monuments,
Amesbury Archer – to discover more Garden. Other unique sites in the
iconic Stonehenge forms part of
of the World Heritage Site’s story. area include mysterious Silbury
Wiltshire’s World Heritage Site and
is a great place to begin your day. Overnight: Salisbury or Hill, the largest man-made mound
Be sure to take in Stonehenge Amesbury areas (eg Holiday Inn in Europe, and West Kennet Long
visitor centre for outstanding Salisbury-Stonehenge). Barrow, one of Britain’s largest
exhibitions setting the monument Stone Age burial sites.
Day 2
in its historic context. Or pre-book Lunch: Calne or Devizes areas.
a tour with one of our local guides AM: Keep an eye out for Wiltshire’s
famous White Horses, carved PM: Spend the afternoon at
(see page 20).
into the rolling chalk hillsides, as Wiltshire Museum in Devizes,
Lunch: Amesbury or Salisbury you travel north. At the heart of a where you’ll find outstanding
areas (eg The Stonehenge prehistoric complex in the North galleries spanning Neolithic,
Inn & Carvery). Wessex Downs, today’s first stop is Bronze Age, Iron Age, Roman,
PM: Head to The Salisbury at Avebury. Explore the stone circle Saxon and Medieval times,
Museum – COURTESY
> PHOTOGRAPH home to OF
one itself, the largest in the world, then
SALSIBURY JOURNAL including Gold from the Time
of Europe’s most extensive take a stroll around the charming of Stonehenge.
BREATHTAKING 3+
Homes & • Abbey House Gardens • Great Chalfield Manor
Gardens • Bowood • Iford Manor Gardens • Stourhead
• Longleat • Larmer Tree • Wilton House
> Stourhead
Day 1 Day 2 Day 3
AM: Your day begins in medieval AM: On to delightful Iford Manor AM: Cross Cranborne Chase to visit
Malmesbury, at the 5-acre Gardens, where romantic grounds the extraordinary Victorian gardens
Abbey House Gardens. evoke an Edwardian version of Tuscany. at Larmer Tree, recognised as a
Lunch: Malmesbury area. Lunch/Afternoon Tea: Garden of National Importance.
Bradford on Avon area Lunch/Afternoon Tea: Wilton
PM: Choose between the
(eg The Bridge Tea Rooms). or Salisbury areas (eg Legacy
charming Arts & Crafts garden
PM: Choose between the famous Rose & Crown Hotel).
at Great Chalfield Manor near
Melksham. Or the magnificent 18th century gardens at Stourhead, PM: Explore the 22 acres of
pastoral landscape at Bowood with their lake and classical temples. parkland and gardens at Wilton
House and Gardens, created Or Longleat, where the impressive House, also believed to be
by master landscaper Elizabethan house is surrounded by influenced by ‘Capability’ Brown.
‘Capability’ Brown. 900 acres of stunning ‘Capability’ For those with more time, Chavenage
Brown landscape. House and Westonbirt, the National
Overnight: Calne or Melksham
areas (eg Bowood Hotel Overnight: Warminster or Salisbury Arboretum are just across the
& Spa). areas (eg Stonehenge Campsite and county border in the Cotswolds.
Glamping Pods or Red Lion Hotel).
18 visitwiltshire.co.uk/groupsTRAVEL TRADE GUIDE
WILTSHIRE
•
•
Mompesson House
Wilton House • Fonthill Lake 3+
• Old Wardour Castle • Stourhead
Picture •
•
Great Chalfield Manor
Lacock • Corsham
Perfect •
•
Castle Combe
Chavenage House
> Pride & Prejudice, Wilton House
Day 1 Day 2 of Lacock, where scenes from
AM: Begin with a visit to the The White Princess, Downton
AM: Your day starts with a visit
breathtaking gardens at Stourhead, Abbey, Cranford and some of
to two locations from Sense &
which film buffs will recognise as the Harry Potter films were shot.
Sensibility: Mompesson House
in Salisbury, and magnificent another setting from Pride & Prejudice. Lunch: Lacock or Corsham.
Wilton House which also featured Lunch: Enjoy lunch here, then travel PM: While away the afternoon
in The Crown, The Young Victoria north, passing the Westbury White in Corsham, where the High
and Pride & Prejudice. Horse on your way. Street represented 18th century
PM: Spend the afternoon at Great Truro in the first series of
Lunch: Wilton or Tisbury areas. Poldark. Then, if you are able
Chalfield Manor near Melksham,
PM: Travel on to Old Wardour a location from both Poldark and to stay an extra night, travel
Castle, as seen in Robin Hood Wolf Hall. via the quintessentially English
Prince of Thieves, pausing village of Castle Combe – as
Overnight: Chippenham area (eg seen in Dr Thorne, War Horse,
briefly to view Fonthill Lake Best Western Plus Angel Hotel). The Wolf Man, Stardust and
where scenes from Chocolat
Dr Dolittle – to end your tour
were filmed. Day 3 just across the county border
Overnight: Warminster Area. AM: This morning’s destination is at Chavenage House, which
the stunning National Trust village starred as Trenwith in Poldark.
MAGNIFICENT • Trowbridge • Trowbridge Museum 3
• Bradford on Avon • Corsham
Industrial •
•
Malmesbury • STEAM Museum
Kennet & Avon Canal
Heritage •
•
Crofton Beam Engines
Wilton Windmill • The Merchant’s House
> Wilton Windmill
Day 1 river, while former weavers’ cottages Day 3
cling to the hillside above.
AM: Your tour begins in AM: Take to the Kennet & Avon
Wiltshire’s county town of Overnight: Bradford on Avon or Canal for a relaxing narrowboat
Trowbridge, where 1,000 years Melksham areas. trip, or stroll along the towpath
of the woollen cloth industry Day 2 beside the impressive flight of
left a rich architectural legacy. locks at Caen Hill.
Trowbridge Museum (reopening AM: Owing its former prosperity to the
wool trade, honey-coloured Corsham Lunch: Devizes or Marlborough
August 2020 after extensive areas.
renovation and expansion) has makes a great stopping off point on
a nationally important collection your journey to Malmesbury, where PM: Head to Crofton Beam
relating to West Country wool. you can uncover the history of fine Engines near Marlborough to
lace making at the Athelstan Museum. discover magnificent 200-year-
Lunch: Trowbridge or Bradford old working steam engines.
on Avon areas. Lunch: Malmesbury or Swindon.
On Sundays and Bank Holiday
PM: In its textile production PM: On arrival in Swindon, step Mondays you can also visit Wilton
heyday, Bradford on Avon was back in time at STEAM – Museum Windmill nearby. Time permitting,
home to more than 30 cloth of the Great Western Railway. a visit to The Merchant’s House
factories. Today the impressive Overnight: Swindon or in Marlborough makes a fascinating
walls of Abbey Mill still flank the Devizes areas. addition to your itinerary.
groups@visitwiltshire.co.uk 19VISITWILTSHIRE
Local Guides TOUR OPERATORS
GUIDES ONLY
AMESBURY HERITAGE
AND TRANSPORT
TOURS & HISTORY TALKS
07793 366429
info@amesburymuseum.co.uk ROMAN BATH PRIVATE HIRE SALISBURY, STONEHENGE
01225 484346 & SARUM TOURS
SALISBURY CITY GUIDES info@romanbathprivatehire.co.uk 01722 421777
07873 212941 www.romanbathprivatehire.co.uk info@salisburystonehengetours.co.uk
info@salisburycityguides.co.uk www.salisburystonehengetours.co.uk
www.salisburycityguides.co.uk SALISBURY’S CHEQUERED
HISTORY GUIDES
TOURS 2 ORDER 01722 320928 TRANSPORT ONLY
07827 715353 salcheqbb@gmail.com FOR GROUPS
graham@tours2order.com www.salisburyhistorytours.co.uk (eg car, taxi, minibus, coach, train)
www.tours2order.com
SOUTH WEST HERITAGE TOURS EXECUTIVE CONNECTION
07739 667543 01722 333333
DRIVER GUIDE WITH tim@salisbury-valuecars.co.uk
southwestguide@gmail.com
CAR TRANSPORT www.southwestdriverguide.co.uk www.executiveconnection.co.uk
GUIDED WALKS IN WILTSHIRE VALUE CARS GROUP
STONEHENGE & AVEBURY
07502 294715 01722 505050
WITH OLDBURY TOURS
info@guidedwalksinwiltshire.co.uk enquiry@salisbury-valuecars.co.uk
07947 488665
www.guidedwalksinwiltshire.co.uk www.salisbury-valuecars.co.uk
info@oldburytours.co.uk
HERITAGE HOLIDAYS www.oldburytours.co.uk SALISBURY REDS
01722 782893 01202 338420
STONEHENGE & SALISBURY
david@heritage-holidays.org.uk talk2us@salisburyreds.co.uk
GUIDED TOURS
www.heritage-holidays.org.uk www.salisburyreds.co.uk
0845 519 8248
LIBERTY CAR TOURS tours@stonehengetravel.co.uk SOUTH WEST MINIBUSES
07989 387660 www.StonehengeTravel.co.uk 0117 965 0000
mike@libertycartours.co.uk info@southwestminibuses.com
THE STONEHENGE TOUR
www.libertycartours.co.uk www.southwestminibuses.com
01202 338420
enquiries@thestonehengetour.info GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY
DRIVER GUIDE WITH www.thestonehengetour.info 0345 700 0125
GROUP TRANSPORT Please use online contact form
(large car, minibus, coach)
CAR HIRE on our website: www.gwr.com
AROUND & ABOUT BATH
PRACTICAL CAR & SOUTH WESTERN RAILWAY
08000 747949
MOTORHOME RENTAL 0345 6000 650
hello@aroundandaboutbath.com
01249 750500 Please use online contact
www.aroundandaboutbath.com
chippenham@practical.co.uk form on our website:
BATH TOURIST TOURS www.practical.co.uk www.southwesternrailway.com
01225 683058
VINTAGE CLASSICS
russellsofbath@gmail.com
01225 703377 WALKING HOLIDAYS
www.russellsofbath.com
info@vintage-classics.co.uk ALISON HOWELL’S
LION TOURS www.vintage-classics.co.uk FOOT TRAILS
07769 668668 01747 820626
paul@liontours.co.uk GROUND HANDLERS enquire@foottrails.co.uk
www.liontours.co.uk www.foottrails.co.uk
NORMAN ALLEN GROUP
MAD MAX MINIBUS TOURS TRAVEL LTD FOOTPATH HOLIDAYS
07990 505970 01432 277666 01985 840049
maddy@madmaxtours.co.uk normanallen@group-travel.com enquiries@footpath-holidays.co.uk
www.madmaxtours.co.uk www.group-travel.com www.footpath-holidays.com
20 visitwiltshire.co.uk/groupsTRAVEL TRADE GUIDE
A Starring
Role
Wiltshire locations can be spotted
> Poldark, Corsham > War Horse, Castle Combe
in many big screen movies and
TV costume dramas. A few are
listed here – to find out more Lacock Abbey and Great Other productions featuring
go to visitwiltshire.co.uk/film Chalfield Manor featured in Wiltshire locations include Tomb
the BBC’s Wolf Hall (2015). Raider (2018), The Crown (2017),
Stunning Iford Manor Gardens Transformers: The Last Knight
can be seen in a re-make of Scenes from Harry Potter & (2017), The White Princess (2017),
The Secret Garden (April 2020). The Half Blood Prince (2009) Dr Thorne (2016), Thor: The Dark
and Harry Potter & The Chamber World (2013), War Horse (2011),
Filming for the final TV series of of Secrets (2002) were filmed at
Downton Abbey (2015) took The Wolf Man (2010), Creation
Lacock Abbey. (2009), The Young Victoria (2009),
place in Lacock, which co-starred,
with Bradford on Avon, in the big Both Wilton House and Stourhead Lark Rise to Candleford (2008-
screen version (2019). can be seen in the cinema version 2011), The Other Boleyn Girl (2008),
of Pride & Prejudice (2005). Cranford (2007), Stardust (2007)
Corsham stood in for 18th century Chocolat (2000), Robin Hood,
Truro in series one of Poldark (2015), While Mompesson House Prince of Thieves (1991), Far From
while Great Chalfield Manor and Wilton House starred in the Madding Crowd (1967) and
appeared in series two (2016). Sense & Sensibility (1995). Dr Dolittle (1966).
groups@visitwiltshire.co.uk 21VISITWILTSHIRE
> Bowood House & Gardens
Outstanding
Attractions
Park and Stourhead. Longleat, archaeology at The Salisbury
with its Elizabethan house, safari Museum and Wiltshire Museum.
park and more. Charming mansions Or watch conservation in action
such as Mompesson House. at The Merchant’s House
Old Sarum, which evolved from in Marlborough.
a Neolithic community into the
original site of Salisbury. Impressive
Old Wardour Castle.
> REME Museum You can combine super-friendly
animals with wine appreciation at
Whether you’re here for a day, Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm
a weekend or longer, no visit Park and Bluestone Vineyards.
to Wiltshire would be complete Take a walk on the wild side at
without experiencing our timeless Studley Grange Garden and > Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm Park
wonders. Join Salisbury Cathedral Leisure Park. Hunt for bargains at
in 2020 as it celebrates the 800th McArthurGlen Designer Outlet
You’ll also find a range of fascinating
anniversary of the laying of its Swindon. Learn about army history
museums specialising in everything
foundations. Home to the tallest at REME Museum. Discover
from textiles, aircraft and motor
spire in Britain it also houses the Wiltshire’s industrial heritage at
vehicles to the history of brushware.
finest of four original 1215 Magna STEAM – Museum of the Great
Carta manuscripts. Shrouded in Western Railway. See outstanding There are plenty of fascinating
mystery with a magnetism that has places to visit on the Wiltshire
drawn people to them for thousands borders, too. At Cheddar Gorge
of years, Stonehenge and Avebury and Caves you can follow in the
are equally breathtaking – two footsteps of early man, walk along
monolithic stone circles within one Britain’s highest inland limestone
outstanding World Heritage Site. cliffs, and admire stunning
stalactites and stalagmites in
Other unmissable attractions include
the caverns below.
stately homes and gardens such as
Bowood, Great Chalfield Manor, For further ideas and inspiration go
> Westonbirt Arboretum > Lydiard House
Iford Manor Gardens, Lydiard to: visitwiltshire.co.uk/groups
22 visitwiltshire.co.uk/groupsTRAVEL TRADE GUIDE groups@visitwiltshire.co.uk 23
VISITWILTSHIRE
Abbey House Gardens
Malmesbury Arundells
Historic house, art collection and beautiful
two-acre garden leading down to the river.
A spectacular 5-acre garden beside the 12th century Just a few minutes walk from Salisbury Cathedral
Abbey Church in the centre of medieval Malmesbury. and coach drop-off points. Former home of
Sir Edward Heath: Prime Minister, statesman,
Open April to October. Groups welcome, please sailor and musician. Groups welcome for self-guided
contact us for further information and to book. visits or tours with our experienced guides. Free entry
for driver/leader and discounts for large groups.
07795 418197
01666 827650 Please ring to discuss your requirements.
info@abbeyhousegardens.co.uk 01722 326546 | info@arundells.org
www.abbeyhousegardens.co.uk www.arundells.org
The Merchant’s
Iford Manor Gardens House
The Cartwright-Hignett family at Iford Manor, near Bath, welcome Set on the wide high street of the vibrant market
visitors to their internationally renowned Grade 1 Listed gardens, town of Marlborough, which is bursting with history
as featured in the upcoming cinematic remake of ‘The Secret and character, is the house of Thomas Bayly, a
Garden’. Formerly home to Harold Peto from 1899-1933. prosperous silk merchant. It was rebuilt following the
Open April to September
great fire of Marlborough in 1653. A fine timber and
Out of hour visits and tours available brick building was constructed, its interior panelled,
Coaches & groups by appointment with nationally acclaimed, unique wall paintings
Please e-mail us for details and a commanding oak staircase. Continuing
WINNER—Little Treasure of Britain conservation makes this a special visitor attraction.
2017 Group Travel Awards
132 High Street, Marlborough, SN8 1HN
www.IfordManor.co.uk | info@ifordmanor.co.uk | +44 (0)1225 863146 01672 511491 | www.themerchantshouse.co.uk
24 visitwiltshire.co.uk/groupsTRAVEL TRADE GUIDE
N SP
A3 r Sto 0E
ea 4
03 ne W
/3 hen
38 g
e
GROUP TOURS
A WONDERFUL PL ACE TO STOP & STRETCH,
IN BEAUTIFUL WILTSHIRE COUNTRYSIDE
GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE
Your tour guests will be well looked after and can make use of
the café, bar, education centre and events barn (bookable).
PRE-BOOKING & PARKING
Pre-bookable for coaches or smaller groups only, with meals,
snacks and bespoke tours available, pricing on request. There
is plenty of room for parking coaches and drivers are warmly
welcomed with a hot drink and meal voucher.
FOOD & GIFTS
The café serves delicious home-cooked food, barista coffee,
cream & afternoon teas and the farm gift shop is stocked with
local souvenirs and giftware.
TAILORED GUEST EVENTS
Team building and tailored guest events can be made
by arrangement.
ACCOMMODATION
Our comfortable and friendly youth hostel also provides
ideal large and small group accommodation. For school and
student groups, leader rooms are available.
CALL SUE, TOURS & EVENTS MANAGER: 01980 629438
Café & Food Tours & Groups Rare Breeds Farm Accommodation Weddings & Events
For Bookings & Enquiries
01980 629438 | events@choldertoncharliesfarm.com
Visit: www.choldertoncharliesfarm.com
groups@visitwiltshire.co.uk 25VISITWILTSHIRE
McArthurGlen
Designer Outlet
Swindon
Located within the listed buildings of the old Great Western
Railway Works, McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Swindon is
a unique destination for those looking for an immersive
shopping experience. Browse luxury, well-loved brands
including Levi’s, Ted Baker, Nike, Reiss and more
for up to 60% less before you relax and unwind at one
of our many cafés and restaurants such as Wagamama,
Pizza Express, Carluccio’s and Starbucks.
Within 50 miles of Bath and Bristol, less than an hour
from London by train and on the edge of the Cotswolds,
Swindon Designer Outlet is a great place to meet and
spend time with friends and family. Along with fantastic
savings all year round, discover seasonal events such as
Black Friday, Late Night Shopping and a magical Christmas
period. Keep the kids entertained too on the Hooter
Express train, and in our interactive play area! There’s
something for everyone at Swindon Designer Outlet…
© National Trust 2019 . Registered charity, No. 205846. © National Trust Images \James Dobson.
Connections with history
made in Wiltshire
Visit Lacock, Stourhead and Avebury for days
out full of new discoveries and explore
unspoilt Wiltshire countryside.
These are the places that make us.
nationaltrust.org.uk/wiltshire
26 visitwiltshire.co.uk/groupsTRAVEL TRADE GUIDE
Cause to
Celebrate!
In 2020 Salisbury Cathedral and the city commemorate one of the
most remarkable moves in medieval history: the relocation of the
Cathedral and its community from Old Sarum to its present site.
A year of celebrations is planned to mark the spirit and endeavour
required to pull off this incredible feat. From the craftsmen who
constructed the medieval masterpiece with its 123m high spire to the
citizens who built a thriving commercial centre around it, in 2020 the
city recognises the vision that transformed what was a modest hamlet
into one of the most influential cities in Britain by the early 1300s.
Highlight events include an immersive light and sound show
Sarum Lights from 18-22 February, a major art exhibition
Spirit and Endeavour with works by 20 contemporary artists
including Henry Moore and Grayson Perry from 1 April-25 October
and Confluence: a Festival of Flowers from 15-20 September.
An exciting range of special interest tours is available to pre-
booked groups at the Cathedral including behind the scenes
tours of their works yard, where visitors can watch talented
stonemasons using the same traditional craft skills as those used
to build the Cathedral 800 years ago.
Situated at the gateway to the south west and with Stonehenge
only 8 miles away, there has never been a better time to visit
this jewel in the Wiltshire countryside!
For more information email groups@salcath.co.uk
or call 01722 512190. www.salisburycathedral.org.uk
groups@visitwiltshire.co.uk 27VISITWILTSHIRE
EXPLORE A LOST CITY
Stand in the footprint of the original Salisbury Cathedral.
Nr Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 3SD
The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.
6114 Old Sarum 130x94mm LAND Ad.indd 1 03/09/2019 14:48
YOUR STORY STARTS HERE
Travel back 5,000 years to discover the world of your ancestors.
Nr Amesbury, Wiltshire SP4 7DE
Pre-booking essential call 0370 333 0604 or email bookstonehenge@english-heritage.org.uk
The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.
28 visitwiltshire.co.uk/groupsTRAVEL TRADE GUIDE
REME Museum
A very modern and interactive museum with
seven fascinating galleries to explore, plus two
STEAM
Museum of the Great Western Railway
temporary exhibitions each year. Large exhibits
include a scout helicopter and the 62T Challenger
Armoured Repair and Recovery Vehicle. A First Class Day Out
Exclusive group options include a visit to the STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway
reserve collections hanger and a session with Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon SN2 2EY
the Museum Archivist. Tel: 01793 466646
Large free car park. Excellent Crowns Café for www.steam-museum.org.uk
hot and cold refreshments. www.facebook.com/steammuseum
Open Tue-Sun, 10am-4:30pm. @steam_museum
www.rememuseum.org.uk | 01249 894869
enquiries@rememuseum.org.uk
Studley Grange Thomas Hardy
HIS STORY RETOLD
Four chapters… four museums
Take a fresh look at the life and literature of the
Victorian novelist and poet who found his inspiration
in the Wessex landscapes. His story will be retold in
exciting new ways by our
Situated just outside Swindon, close to the M4, museum collections, from
Studley Grange is ideal for ‘comfort breaks’, as period costumes to personal
an enjoyable addition to your journey, or even letters, art to archaeology.
part of your holiday. Find beautiful gifts, plants
and horticultural items in our Garden Centre. The four exhibitions open
Discover the natural beauty of tropical butterflies, in summer 2021 at
whilst walking amongst them, see a range of The Salisbury Museum,
exotic animals and reptiles in the zoo and learn Wiltshire Museum, Poole
where your food comes from out on the farm. Museum and Dorset Museum.
Visit the craft village for an individual shopping
experience and Butterfly Café for delicious freshly For group tickets, tours,
prepared food. Studley Grange is the perfect day itineraries, email
out for all the family; for more information visit wessexmuseums@
www.studleygrange.co.uk bcpcouncil.gov.uk
groups@visitwiltshire.co.uk 29VISITWILTSHIRE
10 top reasons
> Salisbury Cathedral Tower Tour
TO VISIT WILTSHIRE
Whether you’re planning your • Wiltshire has characterful market
first visit to Wiltshire or your towns aplenty. Bradford on Avon, a
twenty-first, we’ve come up honey-coloured gem. Calne, where
with some suggestions for the English technique of producing
making the most of your time ham and bacon was invented.
here. You’ll find new stories > Stonehenge Visitor Centre Corsham, whose historic high street
around every corner: starred as Truro in BBC’s Poldark.
• Steeped in history and Stylish, cosmopolitan Marlborough,
• With award-winning attractions, mystery, no visit to Wiltshire a handsome former staging post.
great food and drink, excellent would be complete without Swindon with its excellent range of
shopping and top-notch arts taking in Stonehenge and leisure opportunities.
venues, Salisbury is the perfect Avebury: two inimitable stone
fusion of ancient and modern. circles; one outstanding • Creativity is at the heart of the
Salisbury Cathedral boasts World Heritage Site. Wiltshire experience. Here you’ll find
Britain’s tallest spire and best inspirational festivals, events and
preserved original 1215 Magna entertainment, all year round.
Carta. Take a Tower Tour for • With miles of ancient drove roads
fabulous views and look out for and uncrowded country lanes, almost • The Kennet & Avon Canal
celebrations throughout 2020 half of Wiltshire’s breathtaking stretches across the centre of the
marking the 800th anniversary landscape falls within an Area of county, offering a range of ways
of the laying of its foundations. Outstanding Natural Beauty to appreciate Wiltshire’s timeless
– rural England at its very best. scenery. Walk or cycle along the
towpath, take to the water in a
canoe, or relax on a soothing
narrowboat cruise.
• Wiltshire offers a great all-
round shopping experience,
with designer brands and high
> Lacock Abbey
street names, independent
outlets and shopping malls,
> Westbury White Horse
farm shops and markets.
• Among Wiltshire’s many
• Among Wiltshire’s most iconic timeless villages, the stars of • To make the most of all that
views are the White Horses the show are the film-makers Wiltshire has to offer, it’s well
carved into its chalk hillsides. favourites of Lacock and Castle worth staying a night or two – you’ll
Keep an eye out for them as Combe; the perfect places to find a great range of group-friendly
you travel around. journey back in time. accommodation to choose from.
30 visitwiltshire.co.uk/groupsTRAVEL TRADE GUIDE
> Festival of Light,
Longleat
Christmas
IN Wiltshire
Christmas in Wiltshire is a very
special time, as our historic towns
and villages receive an extra
sprinkling of festive magic. Here are
a few highlights of particular interest
to groups – for more details of these
and many other seasonal events go
to visitwiltshire.co.uk/whats-on
Longleat’s winter wouldn’t be
complete without the renowned
Festival of Light, which is opportunities at the National garden. See website for details.
confirmed to return for its 7th Trust shop. (*Manor closed www.nationaltrust.org.uk/stourhead
year on selected dates from Wednesdays; whole property except
7 Nov 2020 to 3 Jan 2021. Witness Salisbury Cathedral’s
stone circle closed 24-26 Dec.)
The illuminating lantern spectacle spectacular Darkness to Light
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/avebury
will see hundreds of silk-strewn Advent Procession, as 1,300
scenes and digital installations Christmas events at Lacock will run candles light up the Cathedral –
embellishing the ornate Longleat throughout Dec 2020 (closed 25 daily from Fri 27-Sun 29 Nov 2020.
Estate, bringing the spirit of the and 26 Dec). As well as traditional Join one of Salisbury Cathedral’s
festive season to lustrous light. decorations and a crackling log fire atmospheric services or book a
As part of the Festival of Light, on in the Abbey’s Great Hall, visitors behind the scenes tour and view
New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day can enjoy the Christmas tree festival their giant Christmas tree from
there will be spectacular firework in the Cloister, hear traditional above! Private tours available to
displays lighting up the evening sky. Victorian carols and follow a family pre-booked groups only - email
www.longleat.co.uk/groups trail through the village and grounds. groups@salcath.co.uk or telephone
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock 01722 512190 for details.
At McArthurGlen Designer www.salisburycathedral.org.uk
Outlet Swindon you can tuck into From Wed 25 Nov-Sun 20 Dec
delicious street food as you do 2020 (Wed-Sun only) Mompesson During Nov and Dec (dates tbc)
your Christmas shopping, enjoy the House in Salisbury will be Salisbury Christmas Fayre will
beautiful decorations and magical decorating the ground floor rooms feature colourful stalls swathed in
Christmas activities. Pre-book your for Christmas, with a festive trail twinkling lights, offering everything
group to receive a group pack for children, plus mince pies from traditional festive foods to
including a 10% discount card and mulled wine in the garden hand-crafted gifts. Browse the
and £5 gift card lunch voucher for tea-room. www.nationaltrust.org. traditional wooden chalets, listen
coach drivers. For more details and uk/mompesson-house to live music, and enjoy seasonal
many other seasonal events go to treats in the food and drink quarter.
The garden at Stourhead is open www.christmasinsalisbury.co.uk
www.swindondesigneroutlet.com
all year, but from 21 Nov-23
National Trust properties join Dec 2020 a selection of ornately From the beginning of Dec
in the festive celebrations too. decorated rooms at Stourhead Wyvern Theatre’s ever-popular
From Sat 21 Nov 2020 to Sun House show how the Hoare family annual pantomime takes to the
3 Jan 2021* Christmas warmth and celebrated Christmas. Three course stage for a four-week run. Special
cheer at Avebury include beautiful lunches can be pre-booked for group rates are available and the
decorations at Avebury Manor, groups. In the evening throughout Wyvern also hosts a selection
warming dishes and festive aromas December, a magical after-dark of festive hospitality events.
in the café, and Christmas gift illuminated trail awaits you in the www.swindontheatres.co.uk
groups@visitwiltshire.co.uk 31You can also read
