Roadmark Travel RSS - Excursions Feed

Kingston or Hampton Court

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Today's excursion provides a choice of destination. You can choose to visit KINGSTON-UPON-THAMES which has an excellent shopping centre and stores such as JOHN LEWIS, BENTALLS and MARKS & SPENCER. Alternatively we will take you to nearby HAMPTON COURT where the magnificent Palace which was built in 1514 by Cardinal Wolsey became the favourite country home of King Henry VIII. Admission to Hampton Court is not included.

Fleet Air Arm Museum

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

It is many years since Roadmark visited Yeovilton. The Museum has the largest collection of naval aircraft anywhere in Europe. There is a minimum of 45 aircraft on display at any one time in four large, themed halls, including the first British built Concorde. Each hall has ground floor and upper levels telling the stories of naval aviation from the first manned kites towed behind naval vessels, to helium filled airships, seaplanes, bi-planes and the carrier borne aircraft of WW2 and modern Sea Harriers and helicopters. There are refreshment facilities at the Museum and we will allow about 4 hours for your visit.

Watts Gallery

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

After a coffee stop at Guildford Cathedral we will take you into the town to have time to explore and have lunch. There is undercover shopping in the Friary Centre and a good number of cafes and restaurants. In the afternoon we make our way to Watts Gallery in the village of Compton. This star of BBC Restoration Village, has recently re-opened after an £11 million restoration. The Gallery houses a collection of works by the eminent Victorian artist, GF Watts and is one of the most beautiful small galleries in Europe. You can also visit the stunning Art Nouveau Chapel designed by Mary Watts. There will be a short introductory talk and we have included afternoon tea and biscuits to enjoy before we head home.

'Dickens and London'

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This is the first major exhibition on Charles Dickens in the UK for more than 40 years. The exhibition examines the central relationship between the author and London - the city that inspired much of his work and which he described as his 'magic lantern'. Evoking the atmosphere of the streets of London and the River Thames, the Dickens exhibition leads visitors in his footsteps to go on a haunting journey, discovering the places and subjects that sparked his imagination. The Museum of London is itself a fascinating place to visit and we will allow plenty of time to enjoy everything it has to offer. There are several places for refreshments at the Museum.

Imperial War Museum

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Imperial War Museum in South London tells the story of conflict involving Britain and the Commonwealth since 1914. At this award-winning museum you will see thousands of imaginatively displayed exhibits, from art to aircraft, utility clothes to U-boats. There is a permanent free exhibition on the Holocaust and also The 'Terrible Trenches' (small extra charge applies) This new exhibition vividly portrays life in the trenches during the First World War. An audio-guided tour is available for a small charge. There is an excellent café at the Museum.

A Day out to Windsor

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Windsor is a largely Victorian Town which owes everything to its great Royal Castle. The Castle, founded by William the Conqueror, first became a Royal Residence in the reign of Henry 1st, and incorporates additions dating from that time to the reign of Queen Victoria. You will have plenty of time in which to visit the Castle (admission not included) and the town itself, which has a Guildhall built by Sir Christopher Wren in 1689. Across the River is Eton, with its famous College and quaint old High Street.

Milestones - The Town where it never rains!

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Today's excursion takes us to Hampshire's award-winning living history museum, MILESTONES. You can explore the authentic shops and streets filled with familiar objects from the past. The museum comes to life through the lively commentary - we include a free audio guide, and there are costumed characters who perform daily. The entire Museum is under cover. We have included a jacket potato and salad lunch for you today with a variety of fillings available for you to choose from.

'Cirque du Soleil' - 'Totem'

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This excursion was so popular when we went in January this year that we have decided to repeat it in 2012. Cirque du Soleil was established in Quebec in 1984 by a troupe of street performers. Since then, it has grown to employ over 5,000 people (a quarter of them performers) presenting 20 shows to nearly 100 million people in more than 200 cities on five continents, including residencies in Las Vegas and Walt Disney World, Florida. Their show - 'Totem' comes again to London's Albert Hall and is inspired by many founding myths. 'Totem' illustrates, through Cirque's trademark visual and acrobatic language, the evolutionary progress of species. Somewhere between science and legend the show explores the ties that bind man to other species, his dreams and his infinite potential. We are sure this is, once again, going to be a very popular excursion so please book early to avoid disappointment. There will be time to find lunch before the afternoon performance.

Mark's Big Quiz

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Regulars will know that Mark’s Quiz Tours are always a lot of fun, informative and light hearted. There is a brand new theme for the 2012 quiz, which is based on Television and Radio comedy programmes from the 1960s, 70s and 80s. Who can forget shows like The Goons, The Two Ronnies, Round the Horne and the incredibly popular Morecambe & Wise? There will be stops for coffee and lunch (cost of refreshments not included). Please come armed with a pen/pencil.

Houses of Parliament

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

On arrival in London there will be time to find lunch around Westminster and the South Bank. For your tour of the Palace of Westminster you will be accompanied by a specially qualified BLUE BADGE GUIDE. You enter through the instantly recognisable Central Lobby and into The House of Commons. You then pass through the Members' Lobby and go through the heavy wooden doors famously shut in the face of Black Rod every year. Among the benches of either the Government or the Opposition you will be given examples of some of the most important decisions in British history. The tour then proceeds through St.Stephen's Hall to end in Westminster Hall, the oldest part of the original Palace still remaining. This inspiring place has the largest single span roof in Northern Europe. The tour lasts just over an hour and provides an opportunity to walk through the corridors of power and sense the atmosphere within this unique building.

Simply Oxford

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The ancient and world-famous University City of Oxford stands on three main waterways - the River Cherwell, the Thames, and the Oxford Canal. There will be plenty of time in which to explore the City, perhaps visiting one or more of the beautiful old colleges that make up the University, founded in the 12th century. Oxford offers a wealth of shopping, cafes, pubs and restaurants.

'Soaring Salisbury'

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Beneath the tallest church spire in Britain, enjoy a guided stroll around the ancient Cathedral Close in this lovely town. Strange tales of mummified hands, desperate Kings and a sulking Prime Minister…..plus a full guided tour of the glorious Cathedral itself. (small entrance fee applies). Also time to visit the renowned market, dating back centuries, to shop for fresh produce and bargains galore. This tour will be accompanied by Paul Fisher, a Sussex based Blue Badge Guide.

Oxfordshire Winter Wanderer

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We travel through leafy Berkshire and cross the River Thames at Henley. Continuing past Wallingford and through the Thames Valley, we arrive at Abingdon. We shall stop for you to enjoy lunch (not included) and shopping at MILLETTS FARM CENTRE. Here there is an excellent FARM SHOP that stocks a wide range of locally-sourced fruit and vegetables, bread and cakes, wines etc. There is also a restaurant and a large Garden Centre.

Cambridge or Duxford Air Museum

Sat, 25 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The first scholars arrived in Cambridge in 1209 and Peterhouse, the first college, was founded 75 years later. Today Cambridge is a vibrant university town with fine buildings, museums and churches. If you prefer, you can visit DUXFORD, Europe’s premier aviation museum. This famous heritage site began as an airfield in the First World War and was an important fighter station in the Second World War. As well as housing the American Air Museum there is a large selection of British military and civil aircraft, a Naval Collection and Battle of Britain Exhibition.

Monday Mystery Drive

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A later start today for those who don't like the dark mornings! Your Roadmark driver is skilled at taking the coach down smaller roads and through pretty villages, and will have one or two surprises for you during the day. Simply sit back and enjoy the scenery from your seat high in the coach. As with all our mystery drives there will be stops for refreshment (not included) along the way.

Olympic London with City and Village Tours

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As the 2012 Olympic Games gets closer, there is huge public interest in how London is getting ready for them. City and Village tours have an award-winning guiding team who are among the most experienced in showing and explaining what is going on in East London. On arrival in Woolwich a roast chicken lunch (vegetarian option available) will be served, and after tea or coffee we set off to enjoy a really entertaining and eye opening afternoon that will show you the lie of the land in terms of the 2012 games. The vast Olympic Stadium is finished, the Velodrome is ready and nearby the Athletes Village and the Aquatic centre and Basketball Arena complete the landscape! For security reasons no one is allowed inside the park but you will get a really good look at the tremendous scale of developments that are turning a neglected area into a series of world class venues that will be seen by 4 billion viewers.

Simply Canterbury

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

CANTERBURY is an interesting place to visit. The City was the cradle of Christianity in Saxon England, and stands on a site that had already been occupied for 350 years when the Romans arrived there in AD43. The long cathedral that dominates the city is the Mother Church of Anglicans throughout the world. It dates from Norman times and in the Middle Ages was the destination of countless pilgrims. Its stained glass is among the finest in the country, and it has the largest Norman crypt in Britain. There will be plenty of time to explore the Cathedral, the narrow streets and modern shopping area.

'Olde Tyme Players' -'The Morecambe and Wise Years'

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

'Bring me Sunshine'!! Banish the winter blues and come with us to Bashley Holiday Centre in the New Forest where the good folk of The Olde Tyme Players will provide an afternoon of entertainment. The cost of the excursion includes a light lunch on arrival and tea during the interval. The fun-packed new 2 hour show based on the Morecambe and Wise years is sure to raise spirits and make us laugh! Enjoy music and comedy, with plenty of opportunities to join in and sing along to old favourites you will be sure to recognise.

Bletchley Park - Station X

Sat, 03 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Bletchley Park, also known as Station X, was the location of this Country’s main code-breaking establishment during World War II. It is now a fascinating museum, with enough different activities and exhibitions to occupy visitors for a whole day, from wartime toys to working computers. Probably the most famous exhibit is the ENIGMA machine, which was developed at Bletchley Park and credited with shortening the War by several months by breaking German secret codes. Prepare to be amazed by COLOSSUS, (included in your admission price) an authentic rebuild of the world’s first computer, slightly larger than today’s laptops! There is a wartime mini cinema, and an outstanding collection of Churchill memorabilia. You can visit the ornate Victorian Mansion that was headquarters to intelligence staff during the War. An audio guide is included in the price enabling you to explore the site at your own pace. A range of hot and cold food is available.

London Go-as-you-please

Sun, 04 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Let Roadmark take the strain of driving to and from London and spend the day as you choose. Our coach will set down and pick-up at SOUTH KENSINGTON (close to the Museums), HARRODS in Knightsbridge, and MARBLE ARCH for shopping in Oxford Street

Monday Mystery Drive with lunch

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Another of our popular mystery tours on which we endeavour to take you off the beaten track and keep you guessing throughout the day. Today we include a two course lunch with tea or coffee at ???????.

Villages of Kent and East Sussex

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Once everyone is aboard we shall drive to WESTERHAM in Kent, where we break for coffee (not included). Statues of General Wolfe and Sir Winston Churchill occupy the attractive Village Green. From here our route continues through Four Elms, Chiddingstone, Penshurst, Groombridge and Hartfield, passing through the Ashdown Forest, to BARNSGATE MANOR VINEYARD. After lunch you will have time to visit the Vineyard Shop and make friends with the Llamas before we head for home. Please let us know your chosen main course when booking.

Hendon RAF Museum

Sat, 10 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The official Museum of The Royal Air is located at Hendon and is well worth a visit. It is especially suitable for this time of year, as all the exhibits are undercover, and there is a restaurant serving snacks and hot lunches. The collection consists of well over two hundred aircraft, housed in five mammoth buildings, and includes the legendary Spitfire and the Lancaster Bomber. Alongside the planes are aviation memorabilia, fine art and photographs covering the history of aviation from early balloon flights to the latest jet fighters. See the Chinook Exhibition, based around the frame of a real Chinook helicopter and in the Battle of Britain Hall you can enjoy a sound and light show depicting “Our Finest Hour”.

Mill at Sonning

Sat, 10 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Meet three married couples. The Fosters, Frank and Fiona. The Phillips, Bob and Teresa. And the Featherstones, William and Mary… Frank employs Bob and William. Fiona is having an affair with Bob. Teresa is suspicious of Bob, who covers up his own adultery by shoving the blame onto his colleague William. William suspects Mary is having an affair. Fiona, to ward off Frank’s questioning, tells him that she has been comforting Mary, who also suspects William is having an affair… Got that? But of course, William and Mary are the innocent parties tangled in Fiona and Bob’s web of deceit. So when the Fosters and the Phillips are to entertain the Featherstones on successive nights, you can only imagine what complications, revelations and big laughs will ensue… And what’s more, in a delicious twist, the action is carried out in the separate homes, simultaneously, on the same set, even to the extent of different dinner parties on the same table! Alan Ayckbourn is one of Britain’s most celebrated playwrights, and this is one of his most clever, funny, and entertaining plays. A hilarious afternoon!

The Wetland Centre, Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust

Sun, 11 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The award winning London Wetland Centre is the first project of its kind in the world - more than 40 hectares of created wetlands in the heart of a capital city. In February of 2002 the centre was designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), supporting nationally important numbers of Gadwall and Shoveler duck. Opened in May 2000, the London Wetland Centre offers hundreds of thousands of visitors the chance to see rare and beautiful wetland wildlife just a stone's throw from central London. There will be about 4 1/2 hours for your visit. There is a cafe serving hot and cold food.

Garden Centre Drive

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Many of our passengers enjoy a visit to a Garden Centre, so on this excursion we will take you to one of the excellent Haskins Centres where there will be time for lunch and an opportunity to browse the many different departments. There will be a coffee stop on the way and we should be back in Horsham by about 6pm

'Midsomer Murders'

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Join us on a visit to the fictional county of Midsomer in Buckinghamshire. We will see the lovely villages and country settings used in the famous TV detective series (rumoured to be the Queen's favourite). Mythical murders abound, and we have some TV related surprises as well..... The tour will be accompanied by Paul Fisher our local Blue Badge Guide. We look forward to welcoming you on this entertaining day out.

The 'Edible Garden Show'

Sat, 17 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Edible Garden Show has been voted Most Popular Garden Event of the Year ahead of established fixtures such as The RHS Chelsea Flower Show and Gardeners World Live. The show brings together key experts and innovative exhibitors from the worlds of gardening, home produce and food in a one-stop shop for those wanting a slice of the ‘Good Life’. There will be advice in spades from celebrity gardeners, chefs, growers and livestock experts. From bees, chickens, goats and pigs to seeds, sheds, wellies and wormeries – there is something for everyone. Taking place at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire – Britain’s most famous horticultural venue – this spectacular national show will bring together experts and exhibitors from across the world of Grow Your Own.

Thriplow Daffodil Weekend

Sat, 17 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Thriplow is a quiet village situated 8 miles south of Cambridge. Each year it celebrates 'Daffodil Weekend'. The tradition started in 1969 in an attempt to raise money for repairing the Church, and the village has been opened every year since. Many of the houses in the Village open their gardens, and there are Arts and Craft stalls and demonstrations. There is music, Morris dancing and bell ringing to enjoy. Among the displays and entertainment are Heavy Horses, Sheep Dogs, Birds of Prey and a Steam Traction Engine. There is no shortage of things to eat, either in the Green Man pub or from one of the stalls selling a range of hot and cold food. Everyone in Thriplow turns out to support the event and to show off their delightful village and its thousands of golden daffodils.

Classical Spectactular at the Albert Hall

Sun, 18 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Classical Spectacular is back at the Royal Albert Hall in March 2012. Always popular with our clients, so book early to avoid disappointment. This years programme will include: NESSUN DORMA ** RULE BRITANNIA! ** LAND OF HOPE AND GLORY ** 1812 OVERTURE with THUNDERING CANNONS and indoor FIREWORKS ** CAN CAN DANCERS ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA ** English Concert Chorus ** Kate Valentine soprano ** Jesús León tenor ** Craig Ogden guitar ** John Rigby conductor ** Band of the Welsh Guards ** Muskets and Cannons of the Moscow Militia ** Can Can Dancers

'Singing in the Rain'

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We are delighted to be able to offer tickets to this 'must-see' show! Don Lockwood is a silent movies star with everything he could want - fame, adulation and even a well-publicised 'romance' with his co-star Lina Lamont. But Hollywood is about to change forever. There is rumour in the studio of a new kind of film, where the actors actually talk, sing and dance. ‘Singin' in the Rain’ is the story of that first Hollywood musical, the moment when the silver screen found its voice and never looked back. With all the sparkle and spectacle including Make 'em Laugh, Good Morning, Moses Supposes and, of course, Singin' in the Rain. Shining with vitality, wit and romance, this is a musical to lift your heart and set you singing and dancing. There will be time to find lunch prior to the 3.00 pm performance.

Wisley Gardens

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Wisley is undoubtedly one of the great gardens of the world. Its huge plant collection is also diverse, with a comprehensive fruit-growing collection, alpines, vegetables, bulbs as well as herbaceous and woody plants. Discover a tranquil paradise where exotic butterflies take flight among tropical plants in the warmth of the stunning Glasshouse at Wisley. Whatever the weather, you are sure to have a lovely day out.

Ideal Home Exhibition

Sat, 24 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Join Roadmark for a visit to the IDEAL HOME EXHIBITION at London's Earls Court. This is the leading exhibition of its kind in the UK with over 800 exhibitors offering products and services in................................... HOME IMPROVEMENTS * HOUSEWARE * DIY & GARDENING * FURNITURE * ART LEISURE & ENTERTAINMENT * BODYCARE & FASHION * COMMUNICATIONS * FOOD & DRINK You will be inspired by the room sets, product innovations and exciting new ideas for the home & garden.

The London Philharmonic Orchestra

Sun, 25 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Enjoy Sunday afternoon with one of Britain’s top orchestras at the Congress Theatre in Eastbourne. The programme comprises: Weber Overture - Oberon** Mendelssohn Violin Concerto** Vaughan Williams - The Lark Ascending**Sibelius Symphony No. 5 There will be time to find lunch before the afternoon performance.

Eastbourne

Sun, 25 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Eastbourne is consistently one of Roadmark's most popular destinations for a day out. There is still an air of elegance about Eastbourne - its gracious buildings, avenues and hotels owe their creation to the 7th Duke of Devonshire who designed the resort in 1834. The long esplanade overloooks colourful gardens and there are plenty of places to sit and relax. Stroll on the pier, take a bus up to Beachy Head, or visit the town centre shops - the choice is yours.

New Customers Drive

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We appreciate that those who are new to Roadmark Travel may wish to try a short day trip before making further bookings. For this reason we arrange excursions for anyone who has never travelled with us before. Join us on this trip that includes a visit to the Spa town of TUNBRIDGE WELLS, where there will be time to find lunch. In the afternoon we take a scenic drive through the Ashdown Forest to Heaven Farm. Here you will enjoy refreshments (included) in the Old Stable Tearooms before we head for home. You will also receive a £5 voucher towards the cost of another Roadmark excursion, making this exceptional value for money. The trip also provides an opportunity to meet David, the managing director of Roadmark, and to find out more about our tours and excursions.

Cambridge or Ely

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

CAMBRIDGE is one of our most attractive and enjoyable cities. The university began to develop in the 13th century and the oldest of the colleges, Peterhouse. was founded in 1284. The colleges, with their courtyards and chapels, their libraries and gardens, are spread throughout the city and give it its special flavour. One of Cambridge's great attractions is the river, the Cam or Granta, with the college lawns running down to it and a succession of charming bridges leading across to college gardens known as 'the Backs'. If you prefer you may visit ELY which lies on the edge of the Fens and is dominated by its Cathedral. There is an excellent local history museum and Oliver Cromwell's House gives an insight into the life of this great statesman.

A Day out to Dunkirk

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Join Roadmark for this early season French day trip at a very special price! After an early start we join the DFDS Ferry for the two-hour sailing to the port of Dunkirk. A short drive takes us to the centre of town where there will be about 3½ hours to explore and enjoy a leisurely lunch. Well known throughout the world as the scene for Operation Dynamo in 1940, Dunkirk is one of the few places in Europe that seamlessly combines a wealth of history with fabulous boutique shops, hypermarkets, and delightful restaurants Why not discover Dunkirk’s maritime history at the Port Museum and on board the Duchesse Anne, a stunning schooner dating from 1901. (Entrance not included) Our return time in Horsham should be about 9pm

Olympic London with City and Village Tours

Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

See May 14th for full details of this excursion and alternative pick up points.

'Top Hat'

Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Seventy-seven years after Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers lit up Hollywood’s silver screen with one of the greatest dance musicals of all time, RKO Pictures’ TOP HAT is coming to the West End! Tom Chambers (Holby City heartthrob and Strictly Come Dancing winner) plays the irrepressible Broadway sensation Jerry Travers who dances his way across Europe to win the heart of society model Dale Tremont, played by triple Olivier Award nominee Summer Strallen (Love Never Dies, The Sound of Music, The Drowsy Chaperone). Packed full of Irving Berlin’s greatest hits, such as Let’s Face the Music and Dance, Cheek to Cheek and Top Hat, White Tie and Tails, stunning tap, romantic ballroom and a little bit of Busby Berkeley thrown in for good measure, TOP HAT is a giddy, glorious celebration of 1930s song and dance, featuring magnificent sets, over 200 costumes and a love story that will set the pulses racing!