Brochure

Day Excursions 2016
Upton Coaches is a family run, professional business with 20+ years of
experience in providing coaches for hire.
With our fleet of Mercedes coaches we offer a very professional service
at extremely competitive rates.
We pride ourselves in the quality and cleanliness of all our vehicles,
which are maintained to a high standard.
This reliable and professional approach often results in our customers
using us again and recommending us to others.
Our friendly, experienced staff are happy to help with all your
requirements.
We provide coaches with drivers for all occasions and are situated in
West Somerset, on the edge of Exmoor, within easy reach of the M5.
Airport Transfers, business or corporate hire, private celebrations,
weddings, clubs and functions are a speciality.
Collection points are Bampton, Tiverton Bus Station, Sampford Peverell,
Junction 27 M5 & Longforth Rd, Wellington. Other collections
can be arranged on booking.
March
Swindon Shopper
Thursday 10th March
£14.50pp
The Swindon Designer Outlet Centre is one of the largest covered designer
outlets in Europe. Set in the beautifully renovated Grade II listed building of the
Great Western Railway Works in Swindon, the outlet offers discounted prices
on over 90 high street and designer brands. Featured brands include Hugo
Boss, L.K.Bennett, Jaeger, Hobbs, Musto, Crew Clothing, Kurt Geiger, Ted
Baker, Tommy Hilfiger and John Lewis Home Outlet.
Ideal Home show Olympia London
Saturday 26th March
£29.50pp
Including Admission
With seven dedicated show areas catering to every need and taste, this is the
only place to visit when making your home ideal. From interior to home-ware
and decoration, home improvements to food, fashion & beauty to gardens,
it’s all here under one roof. Shopping the enhanced sections gives you more
choice and bigger brands. Join the famous faces, chefs and experts as they
share their knowledge and skills through demonstrations and workshops. And
for even more inspiration, don’t miss spectacular features including fully built
show homes and gardens and inspirational room sets.
April
Clarks Village
Tuesday 12th April
£12.00pp
Clarks Village is a designer outlet shopping centre in Street in the English
county of Somerset. The centre includes more than 90 high street and
designer shops, mostly selling goods at discounted prices. Enjoy shops like
Joules, Barbour, Oasis, Gap, Levis, Musto, Timberland and lots more. There
are also numerous coffee shops and restaurants.
Cardiff
Thursday 21st April
Rich in history, top class entertainment and quality shopping, Wales’ capital
city offers a startling range of attractions. You will find a lively entertainment
scene in Cardiff. Across the city there are a range of galleries and museums, a
superb Capitol Shopping Centre, the Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Castle
and Cardiff Bay. You will be spoilt for choice!
£15.00pp
Max Gate National Trust and Dorchester
Thursday 28th April Members £14.00pp
Non-Members £19.00pp
Max Gate, located on the outskirts of Dorchester, is a sophisticated town
house and was the home of Dorset’s most famous author and poet
Thomas Hardy. Hardy who designed the house in 1885, wanted to show that
he was part of the wealthy middle classes of the area, to reflect his position as
a successful writer. He wrote some of his most famous novels here,
including Tess of the d’Urbervilles and Jude the Obscure, as well as much
of his poetry. You will find the garden much as it was originally planned, with
high walls and large trees encircling the property to preserve Hardy’s privacy.
Dorchester it is the county town of Dorset.
May
RHS Malvern Spring Show
Saturday 7th May
£32.50pp
Including Admission
The three counties show ground opens its doors to the RHS Malvern Spring
Festival. Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with the glorious
Malvern Hills as a backdrop, the shows spring fever will delight visitors and
create a fabulous family day out to remember. There is every kind of horticultural excellence at the show to inspire your gardening season and give you a
taster of what can be done in your own garden. Some of the highlights include,
fabulous show gardens, outstanding plant exhibits by one-of-a-kind
specialist nurseries, plants to take home from your family day out, advice, talks
and demonstrations, and a host of children’s activities.
Winchester
Tuesday 10th May
£18.00pp
An unspoilt cathedral city on the edge of the rolling South Downs, Winchester
is England’s ancient capital and former seat of King Alfred the Great. Home of
good food and the country’s largest farmers’ market, birthplace of the modern
game of cricket, resting place of author Jane Austen and inspiration to the
many craft-makers and artists who live here, Winchester is truly a destination
for all seasons. Explore more than 1000 years of history in Europe’s
longest Gothic Cathedral. Discover the beautiful illuminated Winchester Bible,
12th-century wall paintings, medieval carvings, contemporary art and the awe
and wonder of this magnificent building.
Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum and Village – National Trust
Thursday 12th May
Lacock village is famous for its picturesque streets, historic buildings and more
recently as a TV and film location for Harry Potter and Downton Abbey. Visitors
can experience the atmosphere of the medieval rooms and cloister court,
giving a sense of the Abbey’s monastic past. On your visit you can discover the
history of the Abbey and newly opened rooms, take a walk in the grounds and
enjoy spring bulbs, summer borders and the greenhouse. This country house
set in rural Wiltshire was once home to William Henry Fox Talbot. Wander
through the historic village with many great shops and places to have a meal,
and don’t miss the wonderful changing exhibitions in the upper gallery of the
Fox Talbot Museum.
Members £16.00pp
Non Members £25.00pp
Hereford Market and Hay-On-Wye
Thursday 19th May
£16.00pp coach only
At Hereford’s produce and craft market you’ll find great local produce and
lovely crafts. Hay-On-Wye is located on the Welsh / English border and is
world famous for being named ‘the town of books’ for all its second hand
bookshops. There is also a market here on a Thursday. Many antique shops
and the remains of two Norman Castles.
Athelhampton House and Gardens
Tuesday 24th May
£23.00pp
Including Admission
Athelhampton House and Gardens, a spectacular 15th century
manor house and grounds 5 miles east of the Dorset town of Dorchester.
With its linenfold panelling, heraldic stained glass, large fireplace and
historic furnishings, the Great Hall is a fine example of Tudor Architecture. The
Great Court, with its striking Pyramid shaped yew trees is our most famous of
gardens. Originally planted to punctuate the corners of planted rose beds, the
trees now dominate. Athelhampton provides an excellent historical experience,
and with an on-site shop and restaurants, an excellent day out for all ages.
Trelissick Gardens - National Trust
Tuesday 31st May
Members £15.00pp
Non Members £23.00pp
On its own peninsula with ever-changing views of the estuary of the
River Fal, Trelissick has one of the most amazing natural settings in the
country. There are more than 12 hectares of elevated garden to explore, with
twisting paths that lead you through significant collections of hydrangeas,
rhododendrons, camellias, ginger lilies and year-round exciting woodland
plants. As well as the garden, 300-acre estate, with its countryside, woodlands
and coast, makes for breath taking walks. As well as the garden and
countryside, Trelissick has its own renowned art gallery with a wide range of
work from local Cornish artists. There is also a café which offers a delicious
range of light refreshments, hot luncheons and afternoon cream teas using
seasonal and local produce.
June
Sherborne Castle and Town
Friday 3rd June
£22.50pp
Including admission to Castle and Gardens
Sherborne Castle – Built by Sir Walter Raleigh, this fabulous Grade 1 listed
house reflects a glorious variety of decorative styles of over 400 years of
English history. 2016 celebrates the Capability Brown’s tercentenary and a
new exhibition charts his impact and legacy on our gardens. Paths and trails
lead you through 30 acres of Gardens and Pleasure Grounds commanding
spectacular views of more than 1,000 acres of lake and parkland. The Garden
is a must see for all arborists, horticulturists and anyone who appreciates a
lake landscape.
Tredegar House National Trust and Dewstow Gardens
Tuesday 7th June
£20.50pp NT Members
£26.50pp Non NT Members
Tredegar House is one of the architectural wonders of Wales and one of the
most significant late 17th-century houses in the whole of the British Isles.
Situated within 90 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland, this delightful red
brick house provides an ideal setting for a fantastic day out. At Dewstow
Gardens you can discover a lost garden with tunnels and underground grottoes buried under thousands of tonnes of soil for over 50 years. Built around
1895 the gardens were buried just after World War Two and rediscovered in
2000.
Sudeley Castle
Thursday 9th June
Adults £28.50pp
Concession £27.50pp
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Cotswolds, in an Area of
Outstanding Natural Beauty with royal connections that stretch back over 1000
years. Today it is a much loved family home and popular visitor attraction.
Inside, the castle contains many fascinating treasures from ancient Roman
times to the present day. Outside, the castle is surrounded by
award-winning gardens and a breath taking 1,200-acre estate – all in the heart
of the Cotswolds. Sudeley Castle & Gardens is also the only private castle in
England to have a queen buried within its grounds – Catherine Parr, the sixth
wife of Henry VIII. Visitors can explore the beautiful 15th Century church where
she lies entombed.
Royal Cornwall Show
Saturday 11th June
£15.00pp coach only
The Royal Cornwall Show is the premier and award winning annual event of
the Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association. Now in its third century the
dedicated show ground at Wadebridge is transformed into a living town,
bustling with life, energy, agriculture, entertainment and trade. The main ring
offers entertainment featuring different headline acts, show jumping and a fast
and furious inter-hunt relay. There is lots of entertainment and demonstrations
in the countryside area. You’ll find busy marquees dedicated to goats and rare
breeds, poultry and bees. There’s a major dog show, a traditional steam fair,
the Cornwall Festival of Dance, forestry and if that’s not enough then there’s
the motor fair, agricultural machinery, crafts, health and beauty... in fact, the
show has something to offer everyone for a fantastic day out!
Wimborne Minster
Wednesday 15th June Wimborne Minster is a thriving market town in East Dorset. This pretty and
historical town has many treasures - the Wimborne Minster Church, Priests
House Museum and Gardens, Walford Mill Craft Centre and its famous Model
Town, to name but a few. There is a wonderful variety of independent shops
that offer great service and a relaxed, friendly shopping experience. And you
can find a lovely dining experience in one of the many restaurants, coffee
houses and amazing local pubs.
£15.00pp coach only
Portsmouth Historic Docks
Saturday 18th June
Adult £41.00pp
Concession £39.50pp
A visit to the Dockyard takes you on a journey through time, allowing you to
step on board historic ships and understand the Royal Navy, past, present and
future. Discover why the ships built and harboured at Portsmouth
Historic Dockyard led the way in terms of technology and innovation and how
they changed the world. Explore some of the attractions, some to mention are
The Royal Navy Submarine Museum, National Museum of the Royal Navy,
The Mary Rose, Harbour Tours and much more.
Chepstow Castle and Caerphilly Castle
Wednesday 22nd June
£26.00pp including admission
Chepstow is a Norman castle perched high above the banks of the river Wye
in southeast Wales. Chepstow’s Great Hall begun in 1067 and is the oldest
surviving stone castle in Britain. Caerphilly Castle is one of the great medieval
castles of western Europe. It’s the largest in Britain after Windsor, its
large-scale use of water for defence and the fact that it is the first truly
concentric castle in Britain.
Abbotsbury Sub-tropical Gardens and Swannery
Thursday 30th June
Adult £28.00pp
Child £24.00pp
Located on the dramatic Dorset Coast, the garden is a mixture of formal and
informal flowers, world famous for its Camellia groves and Magnolias. Noted
in Dorset for its Rhododendron and Hydrangea collections and the charming
Victorian Garden. Abbotsbury Swannery is the world’s only managed colony
of nesting mute swans. Established by Benedictine Monks. Facilities include
the Colonial Restaurant, a quality gift shop and a fantastic plant centre where
many of the flowers grown in the Garden can be purchased.
July
Yeovilton Air Day
Saturday 2nd July
Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton, also known as HMS Heron is one of the
Navy’s two principal air stations and one of the busiest military airfields in the
UK. The Air Day, one of the South-west’s largest one day events, will offer an
action-packed day out for all the family with thrilling flying displays and
plenty to see and do on the ground. Whether you’re a wide-eyed first timer or a
seasoned air show veteran, be prepared for an amazing experience! Over five
hours of spectacular flying displays will include fast jets, historic warbirds,
helicopters, formation display teams, aerobatics and will culminate with the
world renowned Commando Assault Finale featuring troops, aircraft and
pyrotechnics galore!
Adult £32.00pp
Child £19.50pp (5-15yrs)
Trerice & Padstow – National Trust
Wednesday 6th July
£15.00pp NT members
£22.00pp Non-members
An intimate Elizabethan manor and a Cornish gem with fine interiors and
delightful gardens, just on the outskirts of Newquay. Trerice remains little
changed by the advances in building fashions over the centuries, thanks to
long periods under absentee owners.
Today the renowned stillness and tranquillity of Trerice is much prized by
visitors. The house with its surrounding garden has been owned by the National Trust since 1953.
£49.00pp Including Admission
(Under 16’s go free when accompanied by an
adult admission ticket holder)
The Royal International Air Tattoo, Fairford
Saturday 9th July
The Royal International Air Tattoo is a very large Air show containing hundreds
of modern military aircraft in the static line-up. The theme for 2016 is The Next
Generation: Inspiring Innovation. You can expect to see cutting edge aircraft
technology on display both in the air and on the ground featuring fast jets,
transporters, helicopters as well as the world’s greatest international aerobatic
display teams. Few events will rival the intensity and spectacle of what RAF
Fairford has to offer.
Stratford Upon Avon – Shakespeare
Wednesday 13th July
£33.50pp Including Admission
to Shakespeare’s birthplace, Shakespeare’s New Place and Halls
Croft. Or Coach only £18.00pp for Stratford Upon Avon.
Visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare, where he lived here until he was
old enough to marry and spend the first five years of family life here with his
new wife, Anne Hathaway. Shakespeare’s Birthplace is a fascinating house
that offers a tantalising glimpse into Shakespeare’s early world. Set in the
beautiful town of Stratford Upon Avon – small in size but huge in history,
character and charm. The town is filled with many wonderful shops and
restaurants.
Royal Welsh Show
Tuesday 19th July
£18.00pp coach only
The role of the modern Royal Welsh Show is a rounded one. As well as its
principal function of showcasing the cream of Welsh livestock and the high
quality food and drink produced in Wales, it encompasses the wider spectrum
of farming and rural life and successfully bridges the gap between town and
country. It provides something to interest everyone through its kaleidoscopic
range of activities including forestry, horticulture, crafts, countryside sports and
a programme of exciting entertainment that continues throughout the day.
Sir Harold Hiller Gardens & Mottisfont National Trust
Thursday 28th July
The award winning Sir Harold Hillier Gardens in the county of
Hampshire. An inspired mixture of arboretum and perennial flowers set
in 180 acres. Holding one of the world’s most important plant collections.
Some 25 species of butterfly have been recorded within Hillier Gardens.
We will also visit the National Trust property of Mottisfont. From humble
beginnings as a 13th Century priory to a grand country retreat for London’s
artistic elite, Mottisfont has a rich and varied past. The house and gallery is set
in beautiful riverside gardens. Ancient trees and rolling lawns frame this lovely
old house.
£23.70pp National Trust Members
£33.70pp Non Members
Windsor and the Magna Carta (National Trust) with River Cruise
Thursday 21st July
£30.00pp with Cruise
£36.50 with Cruise and Cream Tea
It’s home to Windsor Castle, a residence of the British Royal Family. There is a
wealth of good shopping opportunities, whether you’re after original handmade
items, vintage gems or quality high-street goods. There are plenty of cafes to
choose from that suits all tastes. Seen by many as the birthplace of modern
democracy, this picturesque open landscape beside the Thames was witness
to King John’s historic sealing of the Magna Carta 800 years ago on 15 June
1215. Today Runnymede is an ideal place to relax outdoors, or to pause and
reflect on the history of the struggle for freedom. As well as a monument to the
democratic legacy of the Magna Carta, you’ll find further memorials to John F.
Kennedy and the Commonwealth Air Forces. The boat leaves Runnymeade
Boathouse for a 2 hour cruise through Old Windsor Lock, passing the village of
Datchet and through the beautiful grounds of Windsor Castle. The boat turns
at Romney Lock for the journey back to Runnymeade, passing the Magna
Carta sights while you listen to an informative commentary before arriving back
to the Boathouse to collect the coach.
Weymouth
Tuesday 26th July
£14.00pp coach only
There is much to see and do in the popular seaside town of Weymouth such
as the beach, a variety of shops, lovely cafés, enjoy a walk to take in the
stunning scenery of the Dorset coast or maybe visit Weymouth’s Sea Life
Adventure Park and Tower. Beyond the harbour you will find Northe Forte, one
of Weymouth’s more unusual attractions and one that is steeped in history.
August
Stow on the World and the Lavender Fields
Tuesday 2nd August £15.00pp coach only
With its grand manors and gardens, quaint cottages and quiet backwaters,
ancient woodlands and rolling hills, Stow is the quintessential Cotswold town.
Set in the Heart of the beautiful Cotswold Hills overlooking Broadway and the
Vale of Evesham is the wonderful Cotswold Lavender. Here they grow, distil
and sell unrivalled quality English Lavender Essential Oil. Enjoy a stroll in the
wide open lavender fields and see the wide range of exclusive lavender
products in the gift shop.
Longleat Safari and House
Thursday 4th August
Explore all of Longleat’s attractions. Home to over 500 animals and the first
ever drive-through safari park outside of Africa. We will take you on a tour
through the Safari park and also you get to enjoy the Adventure Park, Longleat
House, maze, take a boat trip or train ride and much more. Truly a spectacular
day out for all the family.
Adults £36.50pp
Senior £31.50pp
Child £30.50pp Including Admission.
Lyndhurst and New Forest Tour
Tuesday 9th August
£15.00pp coach only
Visitors can expect a right royal welcome to the delightful village of Lyndhurst.
Lyndhurst offers a wide range of shops, cosy tea rooms and old world pubs to
discover. It’s known as the capital of the New Forest since William the
Conqueror established it as a royal hunting ground in 1079. The centrally
located New Forest Museum will give a unique guide into the forest’s history
and heritage.
Bournemouth
Thursday 11th August
£15.00pp coach only
The seaside resort of Bournemouth, known for its 7 miles of beaches, Victorian
architecture, Bournemouth Pier and Bournemouth Gardens. Also enjoy some
lovely walks, fabulous selection of shops with independent boutiques, designer
brands and your high street favourites. There are plenty of restaurants and
cafés serving fresh, local produce.
Oxford
Saturday 13th August
£16.00pp coach only
Spend the day in Oxfordshire, one of the most beautiful English counties.
Enjoy its 1,500 listed buildings from every major period of British architectural
history from the 11th century onwards. Oxford is a firm favourite of film makers
from all over the world, and has inspired countless famous writers over the
centuries. There is much for you to see and do here. Seek out your favourite
TV and film locations, visit a museum, take a cruise and also enjoy the shops,
restaurants and cafés.
National Firework Championships - Plymouth
Wednesday 17th August
£13.00pp coach only
The world famous British Firework Championships is set to return to Plymouth
for its 20th showdown. It’s an annual competition held on Plymouth Hoe which
provides a wonderful, natural amphitheatre for the large pyrotechnics. Other
entertainment such as the fun fair is provided on the Hoe. It’s a breath-taking
show and is definitely worth seeing.
Coleton Fishacre National Trust & Brixham
Tuesday 23rd August
A 1920s country retreat complete with luxuriant garden by the sea. This most
magnificent country home, built in the Arts & Crafts style, is imbued with 1920s’
elegance. You can lose yourself in the RHS accredited garden nestled in the
coastal valley. The mild South Cornwall climates allow exotic plants from the
Mediterranean, South Africa and New Zealand to thrive. Viewpoints give
enticing glimpses out to sea as you stroll the pathways, woodlands and
terraces. We will then visit the fishing town of Brixham for the afternoon. With
its very busy harbour, bustling high street and heritage museum there is
something here for everyone.
Members £14.00pp
Non-members £23.60pp
Lulworth Castle and Grounds
Thursday 25th August
£19.50pp including admission.
Lulworth Castle, built in the early 17th Century as a hunting lodge, became a
country house at the heart of a large estate. Today visitors can enjoy exploring
the Castle and follow the fascinating story and the historic past of its dedicated
owners. Climb the Tower and discover breath-taking views over the Dorset
countryside, visit the C18th Roman Catholic Chapel of St Mary and the C15th
Church of St Andrew. There are woodland walks and a children’s playground.
Dartmouth Royal Regatta
Saturday 27th August
£14.00pp coach only
The Regatta is based around a programme of rowing and sailing events and
is the second largest Regatta after Cowes week. The event also incorporates
a busy programme of activities including air displays, a large fair, and many
other smaller events that happen in and around the town centre. The Shopping
Village provides around 100 retail and food stand spaces for a great variety of
high quality, traditional products.
September
Southampton
Tuesday 13th September
£18.00pp coach only
The city of Southampton guarantees an enjoyable experience for everyone,
of all ages and interests. Known as the cruise capital of Europe, Southampton
plays host to over four million visitors a year and boasts an impressive
cultural offering, from museums, music venues and art galleries, to award
winning parks and the general hustle and bustle of a diverse city with fantastic
shopping facilities.
Brownsea Island National Trust
Saturday 17th September
NT Members £24.00pp
Non Members £29.50pp (Including boat ride and admission)
We’ll take you to Poole Quay where you can take a boat trip to Brownsea
Island. Famous for its red squirrels, wildlife and Scouting. Brownsea Island is
dramatically located in Poole Harbour, with spectacular views across to the
Purbeck Hills. Thriving natural habitats - including woodland, heathland and a
lagoon - create a unique haven for a wide variety of birds and other interesting
wildlife. The perfect day’s adventure.
Lytes Cary National Trust and Glastonbury
Wednesday 21st September
Lytes Cary Manor near Somerton is an intimate medieval manor house with a
beautiful Arts and Crafts garden where you can imagine living. Originally the
family home of Henry Lyte. Lytes Cary was then lovingly restored in the 20th
century by Sir Walter Jenner. The garden rooms contain a magical collection
of topiary and herbaceous borders, while tranquil walks on the estate take you
along the River Cary.
Members £14.00pp
Non-members £20.80pp
RHS Malvern Autumn Show
Saturday 24th September
£32.50pp
Including Admission
The Malvern Autumn Festival has plenty of treats for garden fans, as well as
lots of ideas on how to make the most of the autumn harvest. Is a great day
out for everyone to enjoy. Enjoy a celebration of the best seasonal food and
gardening, plants for sale, vintage village, crafts, animals and much more.
Sister Act Musical Bristol Hippodrome
Saturday 24th September
£51.50pp
Including Admission
7.30pm Performance
Alexandra Burke will star as ‘Deloris Van Cartier’ in the national tour of Curve’s
all new production of the hit musical comedy Sister Act. Based on the smash
hit movie starring Whoopi Goldberg and Maggie Smith, SISTER ACT tells the
hilarious story of Deloris Van Cartier, a disco diva whose life takes a surprising
turn when she witnesses a murder. Under protective custody she is hidden in
the one place she won’t be found – a Convent! Disguised as a nun and under
the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris helps her fellow sisters find
their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own. Directed by Craig Revel
Horwood.
October
Tavistock Goose Fair
Wednesday 12th October
£14.00pp coach only
The annual Goose Fair in Tavistock dates back to the early 12th Century.
Market traders come from all over the country to sell their wares and provide
entertainment. Stalls and side shows are set up in the centre of the Town
providing a very enjoyable atmosphere.
Westonbirt Arboretum
Saturday 15th October
Adult £22.00pp
Children £17.00pp
Including Admission
Spend the day here enjoying an autumn walk as the leaves turn and all their
lovely colours. It’s based in Gloucestershire and located three miles from the
traditional Cotswolds market town of Tetbury. The historic, Victorian
picturesque landscape and internationally important tree and shrub collection
is managed by the Forestry Commission and supported by the Friends of
Westonbirt Arboretum. The 15,000 labelled trees come from Britain, China,
North America, Japan, Chile and other temperate climates. The restaurant
offers tasty, freshly prepared hot and cold refreshments with a seasonal menu
of hearty meals and the Cafe serves teas, coffees and a range of hot and cold
snacks.
Truro
Tuesday 25th October
Truro, Cornwall’s county town and only city. A city steeped in history and
awe-inspiring architecture, there is plenty to see and do. Whether you are keen
to shop, dine, visit the gardens, Truro Cathedral, the Royal Cornwall Museum
or simply meander through the Georgian streets, we are sure you will enjoy
your visit to Truro.
£15.00pp coach only
November
Bridgwater Carnival
Saturday 5th November
£10.00pp coach only
Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival. One of the world’s largest illuminated winter
carnival processions, and over two hours long. This is the only carnival to be
followed by the old tradition of ‘Squibbing’. With over 40 large floats, covering
2.5 miles, with up to 22,000 light bulbs being used, Bridgwater Carnival is a
spectacular sight which raises thousands of pounds for local charities.
Worcester Victorian Christmas fair
November – Date to be confirmed
Worcester Christmas markets are NOT to be missed. The friendly and
welcoming atmosphere is so enjoyable. So many beautiful stalls and
merchandise on offer. Lots of street entertainment for adults and children alike.
Set in this magnificent, historic city, it truly is an amazing event at Christmas.
Billy Elliot Musical Bristol Hippodrome
Saturday 19th November
£64.50pp
Including Admission
7.30pm Performance
Experience Billy’s thrilling, inspiring story…. In the most exiting musical of the
decade! Brought to life by the award-winning team behind the movie. Billy
Elliot is an extraordinary theatrical experience that has captivated audiences
around the world. Set in a northern mining town, against the background of
the 1984/’85 miners’ strike, Billy Elliot is the inspirational story of a young boy’s
struggle against the odds to make his dream come true. Follow Billy’s journey
as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class where he
discovers a passion for dance that inspires his family and whole community
and changes his life forever.
Frankfurt Christmas Market, Birmingham
Date to be confirmed December £18.00pp
The Christmas Craft Fair extends into Chamberlain Square where
Birmingham’s own traders offer their own selection of beautifully hand-crafted
items, created locally. This brings a fabulous atmosphere to the city! Enjoy
things like Eating a German Bratwurst & Brezel, have a hot Glühwein (mulled
wine), listen to traditional Carols & Christmas songs & take a ride on the
Carousel.
Birmingham International Tattoo
Saturday 26th November
Britain’s biggest indoor international tattoo, brings together marching bands
and exciting displays. Sharing the arena with the musicians during the
three-hour family event will be a range of spectacular displays including Royal
Air Force Cosford Queen’s Colour, the RNRMC Field Gun Competition, the
United Kingdom Disco Display Team and the Parade of Massed Standards.
This year’s Birmingham International Tattoo will culminate in a Spectacular
Grand Finale featuring the Massed Bands and a special guest appearance by
vocal soloists including singing sensation Rebecca Robinson. The event would
not be complete without the popular Closing Ceremony which will feature the
Royal Air Force Cosford Queen’s Colour and Escort, the traditional Land of
Hope and Glory, the Evening Hymn and the Lone Piper.
6.00pm Adult £42.50pp
Senior £40.25pp
Child (2-15yrs) £38.00pp
December
Bath Christmas Market
Thursday 1st December
£14.00pp coach only
Looking for a truly fantastic festive shopping experience? Look no further than
the award winning, beautiful Bath Christmas Market. Each year the centre of
Bath is transformed into a magical Christmas shopper’s paradise, as over 170
chalets packed full of gorgeous Christmas gifts line the streets surrounding the
Roman Baths and Bath Abbey. Soak up the sights, smells and sounds as you
wander around the market, we guarantee the aroma of warming mulled wine
and freshly baked mince pies, enjoyed with a generous sprinkling of cheering
carols will get even the biggest of humbugs into the Christmas spirit! With
Santa’s Grotto and the ice rink nearby, there’s plenty to keep the little ones (or
the young at heart!) happy too.
Dunster by Candlelight
Saturday 3rd December
£13.50pp Including Park & Ride
Dunster by Candlelight takes place every year. The medieval village provides
a truly glowing, traditional and exciting atmosphere as the streets are lit with
candles and lanterns. There are a variety of street entertainers who include
Carol Singers, Morris Dancers, Hand Bell Ringers, numerous stalls, activities
and shows in the Tithe Barn and Choirs in the Parish Church. A wonderful way
to start the Christmas season ahead.
Cardiff Christmas Market
Wednesday 7th December
£15.00pp coach only
Cardiff Christmas Market is set in the heart of the pedestrian area of Cardiff
City Centre. When shopping at the Cardiff Christmas Market you are viewing
the products from a wide selection of local, predominantly Welsh, small
businesses. The vast majority of amazing shops, quaint Edwardian and
Victorian arcades, restaurants and attractions are within a 5-minute walk of
the Cardiff Christmas Market. You can take in the beauty of Bute Park, Cardiff
Castle and many other sights all just a stroll away from the market and besides
the Christmas Market, you can expect to see the Winter Wonderland with its
own outdoor ice rink and Santa’s Grotto in the spectacular setting of the castle.
Bristol Christmas Market and Cabot Circus
Saturday 10th December
The German Christmas Market in Broadmead part of Bristol Shopping
Quarter has 38 traditional chalets decorated with festive greenery and colourful
lights, the Christmas nativity Pyramid, giant advent calendar and beer gardens
combine to create a festive atmosphere in the heart of the city centre shopping
area. You can find great gifts, including wooden toys, baskets, soaps, lamps
and amber jewellery. Cabot Circus is a great shopping experience, you’ll find
shops like Crew Clothing, Fat Face French Connection, H.Samuel, Hollister,
House of Fraser, The North Face, Miss Selfridge and plenty more.
£12.00pp coach only
Winter Wonderland Cribbs Causeway
Tuesday 20th December
£11.00pp coach only
Experience the magic of Christmas at The Mall Cribbs Causeway’s Winter
Wonderland this year. It boasts the largest outdoor ice rink in the South West!
There is also a small rink for smaller skaters and novices! Also enjoy Santa’s
Enchanted Ice Castle, a magical Christmas train ride inside The Mall and a
selection of festive foodie treats to enjoy.
There are a great range of shops – John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, Joules,
Karen Millan, Oasis, Pandora, Wallis, Swarovski, Office, Jack Wills, Dune and
plenty more.
Winchester Christmas Market
Date to be confirmed in November
£16.00pp coach only
Winchester Christmas Market is recognised as one of the best in Europe,
renowned for its unique location, high quality exhibitors and bustling
atmosphere. Wonderful Christmas gifts, decorations and festive foods can be
found in abundance. The Christmas Market is inspired by traditional German
Christmas markets and attracts thousands of visitors each year. The pretty
wooden chalets are situated in the Cathedral’s historic Close surrounding an
open-air real ice rink. If you’re looking for that special something make sure
you visit the jewellers, painters, glass makers and textile artists selling unique
gifts and decorations. You’ll find chalets selling festive favourites such as,
mulled wine, bratwurst and mince pies.
February 2017
Painswick Rococo Garden
Date to be confirmed – Snow drop display
Adult £21.00pp
Senior £20.00pp
Painswick Rococo Garden is set on the edge of the Cotswolds. The term
‘Rococo Garden’ is associated with garden design from 1720 to 1760.
Its restoration began in 1984 and much of it is now set out in its original form.
A rarely seen ‘Exedera’ or seating area or place to pass the time of day is set
out at the end of the unusually placed vegetable area.
There is a fascinating combination of woodland walks, vistas, a large kitchen
garden which has been restored and some more formal borders which are still
developing. It is famous for its snowdrop displays in winter, coming into their
best around late January and likely to last several weeks. The Rococo Garden
has one of the largest naturalistic plantings of snowdrops in the country and is
in many ways the spiritual home of Galanthus Atkinsii.
Slimbridge Wetland Centre
Date to be confirmed
From birdwatchers to families there is plenty to discover all year round. Enjoy
amazing wildlife up-close. With experiences to suit all ages offering access to
a huge variety of wildlife, it is no surprise they are an award-winning day out!
The big-windowed modern café comes with gorgeous views of our Caribbean
flamingos. Freshly prepared hot and cold food to tickle all taste buds. Grab a
coffee and cake or sit-down with a meal, open all day long.
Adult £24.50pp
Senior (65+) £22.00pp
For more details on our Day Excursions and Holidays,
or for Private Hire, please see our website:
www.uptoncoaches.co.uk
Call us on:
01398 371271
Email us at:
[email protected]
Upton Coaches Ltd, Upton Garage, Upton,
Taunton, Somerset TA4 2HX