Railtrail A5 New Year Brochure 2022-23

NEW YEAR UPDATE

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Q U A L I T Y E S C O R T E D H O L I D A Y S B Y T R A I N

Tour i ng t he UK & Ove r s ea s by Ra i l BOOK NOW – DOUBLE LOYALTY POINTS on all tours until end of January

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43 YEARS

A warm welcome, and best wishes for 2023, from all the team at Railtrail Tours. In this NewYear update we have taken heed of the lyrics of 1970’s pop band Bread that ‘A picture paints a thousand words’ by using a single full page image to por tray the ambience of each tour along with a fur ther page of tour highlights, departure dates and ‘From’ fares. Detailed tour itineraries are available in the 2023 annual brochure published and mailed last October. That brochure can be viewed on our website at www.railtrail.co.uk .We have included in this mini brochure a scannable QR code on each of the main images that will take you straight to the full tour itinerary as displayed on our website. Whilst we are discussing ‘images’ may I suggest you take a new look at the small collection of shor t Railtrail tour films that were produced some years ago that can still be viewed on our website. I am par ticularly proud of these films which were shot ‘live’ on tour with par ticipants giving their unsolicited opinions as their tour progressed. No actors or planted comments just real people, giving real opinions, in real weather! Our depar ture calendar has grown to 4 pages with new, or extended tours, clearly shown.We are looking to fur ther enhance the value of travelling with Railtrail Tours by re-focusing on rewarding you every time you travel with us via our unique Loyalty Rewards scheme.

A Tree For Life We are proud to announce that for the duration of 2023 we will be operating a new scheme whereby should you choose the rail inclusive option when booking onto a Railtrail Tour we will be arranging for a tree sapling to be planted in your honour, thereby offsetting your carbon footprint whilst travelling with Railtrail Tours. We are very aware that with the escalating ‘cost of living’ value for money when taking an escorted rail holiday is of paramount impor tance.That is why we are working harder than ever to give you a quality experience when travelling with Railtrail Tours along with adding value wherever possible to fur ther enhance the pleasure of travelling with us. As an award-winning, family owned, rail holiday company it gives me very great pleasure to say that we enter our 43rd year with great confidence for the future and trust that we will have the pleasure of your company this year.

Dave Felstead Managing Director, Railtrail Tours Ltd

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Extra Benefits Rewarding your Loyalty The vast majority of our customers are either repeat bookings or recommendations. Recognising this, Railtrail is the only rail holiday company with a Loyalty Rewards Scheme. For every pound spent you will receive Loyalty Rewards Points on return from your holiday, which can then be used as a discount on future bookings. Loyalty Points remain valid for 3 years after your return from your holiday. Fur thermore, should you recommend Railtrail to someone not already on our database, then when they travel on their first tour your Railtrail Rewards Loyalty account will also be credited with the value of £25 per person booked if it was a UK tour, £50 per person booked if a European / Grand tour, or £100 per person if they travelled on aWorldwide tour. NEW – Railtrail Frequent Traveller Club We are delighted to announce the re-launch of the Railtrail FrequentTraveller Club rewarding the loyalty of our most frequent travellers. Once you have travelled with us a minimum of 5 times you automatically become a member of a select club that receives special fare offers and free tour upgrades and gifts including a quality pin badge to wear with pride. The more you travel the higher your reward for bronze, silver and gold members.

Your Tour Fare UK Tours – We offer packages including First Class (where available) or Standard Class rail travel from every mainland UK station for each UK tour. However, due to space within this small brochure we can’t print all fares for each tour. The ‘from’ price in our UK section is for those travelling independently of our rail package and joining at theTour Base, which is usually the hotel (or hotels, for multi-centre holidays). Full details of all fares are available at www.railtrail.co.uk or in our main brochure. European Tours – Join theTour Manager at Searcy’s Champagne Bar London St Pancras or travel independently and join at the tour hotel and take advantage of the Tour Base fare. Worldwide Tours – Choose to either travel with the Tour Manager on our designated flights from London Heathrow or book the Ground Only fare to travel independently and join at the tour hotel. TOUR I ND EX Pages Tour departures in date order 4 - 7 Grand Tours by Rail UK 8 - 17 Grand Tours by Rail Europe 18 - 19 Classic European Tours 20 - 39 Classic UKTours 40 - 117 Worldwide Tours 118 - 119 SteamTours 120 - 123

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Start Date

Title

Duration Page

Start Date

Title

Duration

Page

04/02/2023 White Pass Swiss Winter Snow Train Adventure

8

36-37

17/04/2023 Isle of Man Explorer

5

62-63

12/02/2023 Harz Mountains Winter Wonderland

7

26-27

18/04/2023 Steam & Sail in the Elegant English Riviera

5

44-45

14/02/2023 Scottish Highlands More Inclusive

5

90-91

20/04/2023 Springtime Gardens of Cornwall

5

42-43

7/03/2023

Springtime Highlander

5

96-97

22/04/2023 Great German Rail Ale Trail

9

24-25

11/03/2023 White Pass Swiss Winter Snow Train Adventure

8

36-37

24/04/2023 Lake District & Cumbrian Mountains Explorer

6

68-69

12/03/2023 Harz Mountains Winter Wonderland

7

26-27

24/04/2023 Highland Adventure

4

92-93

25/04/2023 Royal Deeside Explorer *

14/03/2023 Scottish Highlands More Inclusive

5

90-91

8

84-85

21/03/2023 Springtime Highlander

5

96-97

26/04/2023 Amsterdam, Tulips, Cheese & Steam

6

22-23

29/03/2023 The Orkney & Shetland Explorer

7

78-79

28/04/2023 Grand Tour - Coastal Nostalgia in the Sunny South

10

8-9

30/04/2023 Yorkshire Gold - Steam, Coast & Country *

31/03/2023 Queen of Scots

8

86-87

8

66-67

02/05/2023 Stirling Cities of Scotland by Rail *

10/04/2023 Australia - Steam on Five Gauges (Ground Only)

15

118-119

5

76-77

02/05/2023 Welsh Whisky, Mines, Mint & Steam *

11/04/2023 Dresden Steam Festival & Much More

8

120-121

5

108-109

12/04/2023 Amsterdam, Tulips, Cheese & Steam

6

22-23

02/05/2023 Northern France Narrow Gauge Steam

8

122-123

03/05/2023 Scotland’s Far North, Shetland & Orkney *

13/04/2023 Springtime Gardens of Cornwall

5

42-43

6

82-83

13/04/2023 Scottish Steam, Malt & Ale Trail

5

88-89

04/05/2023 Hebridean Odyssey

8

80-81

* DENOTES NEW TOUR

4 4

Start Date

Title

Duration

Page

Start Date

Title

Duration

Page

04/05/2023 Heart of Wales Steam & the Brecon Beacons

5

104-105

06/06/2023 Steam & Sail in the Elegant English Riviera

5

44-45

07/05/2023 Canals, Steam & Historic Chester

5

60-61

07/06/2023 Swiss Glacier Express and the Bernina Extended Tour 9

32-33

08/05/2023 Jersey, Guernsey, Herm & Sark

9

46-47

09/06/2023 Queen of Scots

8

86-87

08/05/2023 Roses Battle By Steam - Settle & Carlisle Line

8

64-65

10/06/2023 Six Wonders of the Waterways

10

16-17

11/05/2023 The Cream of Cornish Coasts & Country

5

40-41

10/06/2023 Harz Mountains Steam - the jewel of Germany

7

28-29

11/05/2023 Nostalgic Lakeland Railways & Cumbria

5

70-71

10/06/2023 Jersey, Guernsey, Herm & Sark

9

46-47

11/05/2023 North Norfolk Coast, the Broads & Steam

5

54-55

12/06/2023 Dorset Coast & Isle of Wight Steam

5

48-49

11/05/2023 Scottish Steam, Malt & Ale Trail

5

88-89

15/06/2023 Nostalgic Lakeland Railways & Cumbria

5

70-71

15/05/2023 Forest of Dean Steam & the Wye Valley

5

52-53

15/06/2023 Heart of Wales Steam & the Brecon Beacons

5

104-105

15/05/2023 Wonderful Wales

6

106-107

17/06/2023 The Big Five versus the Stoosbahn

8

30-31

17/05/2023 Scotland’s Far North, Shetland & Orkney *

6

82-83

19/06/2023 Roses Battle By Steam - Settle & Carlisle Line

8

64-65

18/05/2023 Shipshape & Bristol Fashion!

5

50-51

20/06/2023 Summer Highlander

5

98-99

22/05/2023 Isle of Man Explorer

5

62-63

22/06/2023 The Cream of Cornish Coasts & Country

5

40-41

22/05/2023 Highland Adventure

4

92-93

22/06/2023 Scottish Steam, Malt & Ale Trail

5

88-89

27/05/2023 Grand Tour - The Transpyrenean

14

18-19

26/06/2023 Highland Adventure

4

92-93

28/05/2023 Step Back in Tyne - Discover the North East

5

72-73

27/06/2023 Romantic Highlander

5

94-95

28/06/2023 From Coast to Capital - A Scenic Seine Cruise *

28/05/2023 Lake District & Cumbrian Mountains Explorer

6

68-69

7

20-21

04/06/2023 Floral Cheshire & Beyond

5

58-59

29/06/2023 Treasures of the Peak District

5

56-57

* DENOTES NEW TOUR

5

Start Date

Title

Duration

Page

Start Date

Title

Duration

Page

01/07/2023 Switzerland’s Steam-Powered Six

8

34-35

21/08/2023 Swiss Mountain Steam Extended Tour

9

38-38

29/08/2023 Welsh Whisky, Mines, Mint & Steam *

03/07/2023 Wonderful Wales

6

106-107

5

108-109

04/07/2023 Royal Deeside Explorer *

8

84-85

01/09/2023 Queen of Scots

8

86-87

05/07/2023 Swiss Glacier Express and the Bernina Extended Tour

9

32-33

02/09/2023 Switzerland’s Steam-Powered Six

8

34-35

09/07/2023 Canals, Steam & Historic Chester

5

60-61

02/09/2023 Harz Mountains Steam - The Jewel of Germany

7

28-29

11/07/2023 Jersey, Guernsey, Herm & Sark

9

46-47

03/09/2023 Canals, Steam & Historic Chester

5

60-61

13/07/2023 North Norfolk Coast, The Broads & Steam

5

54-55

04/09/2023 Wonderful Wales

6

106-107

05/09/2023 Stirling Cities of Scotland by Rail *

18/07/2023 Steam & Sail in the Elegant English Riviera

5

44-45

5

76-77

20/07/2023 Scottish Steam, Malt & Ale Trail

5

88-89

07/09/2023 Grand Tour - Land’s End to John O’Groats

12

14-15

21/07/2023 Queen of Scots

8

86-87

07/09/2023 Treasures of the Peak District

5

56-57

22/07/2023 Harz Mountains Steam - The Jewel of Germany

7

28-29

07/09/2023 Shipshape & Bristol Fashion!

5

50-51

10/09/2023 Yorkshire Gold - Steam, Coast & Country *

23/07/2023 Step Back in Tyne - Discover the North East

5

72-73

8

66-67

24/07/2020 Swiss Mountain Steam Extended Tour

9

38-39

11/09/2023 Forest of Dean Steam & The Wye Valley

5

52-53

02/08/2023 The Orkney & Shetland Explorer

7

78-79

11/09/2023 Roses Battle By Steam - Settle & Carlisle Line

8

64-65

06/08/2023 Floral Cheshire & Beyond

5

58-59

14/09/2023 North Norfolk Coast, the Broads & Steam

5

54-55

12/08/2023 The Big Five versus The Stoosbahn

8

30-31

14/09/2023 Hebridean Odyssey

8

80-81

16/08/2023 Hebridean Islands Discovery

8

74-75

14/09/2023 Heart of Wales Steam & the Brecon Beacons

5

104-105

17/08/2023 Heart of Wales Steam & The Brecon Beacons

5

104-105

16/09/2023 Grand Tour - Six Wonders of the Waterways

10

16-17

* DENOTES NEW TOUR

6 6

Start Date

Title

Duration

Page

Start Date

Title

Duration

Page

16/09/2023 Grand Tour - The Transpyrenean

14

18-19

07/10/2023 Great German Rail Ale Trail

9

24-25

10/10/2023 Picturesque Pitlochry & The Enchanted Forest *

18/09/2023 Swiss Mountain Steam Extended Tour

9

38-39

5

102-103

18/09/2023 Dorset Coast & Isle of Wight Steam

5

48-49

17/10/2023 Golden Highlander

5

100-101

20/09/2023 Swiss Glacier Express and the Bernina Extended Tour

9

32-33

19/10/2023 The Cream of Cornish Coasts & Country

5

40-41

21/09/2023 Grand Tour - Derry To Kerry

12

10-11

20/10/2023 Isle of Man Explorer

5

62-63

21/09/2023 From Coast to Capital - A Scenic Seine Cruise *

7

20-21

05/12/2023 Festive Highlands More Inclusive

5

110-111

21/09/2023 The Cream of Cornish Coasts & Country

5

40-41

21/12/2023 Swiss Christmas Snow Train Adventure

8

112-113

21/09/2023 Scottish Steam, Malt & Ale Trail

5

88-89

23/12/2023 Harrogate Christmas Celebration

5

114-115

22/09/2023 Grand Tour - Coastal Nostalgia in the Sunny South

10

8-9

27/12/2023 Twixmas in Festive Fort William

4

116-117

24/09/2023 Step Back in Tyne - Discover the North East

5

72-73

25/09/2023 Highland Adventure

4

92-93

25/09/2023 Hebridean Islands Discovery

8

74-75

IMPORTANT NOTE Many of our tours feature the nostalgia of steam trains. Whilst we will endeavor to ensure the journey will be made by steam train we must reserve the right to either travel by heritage diesel train, or visit an alternative attraction, should the steam train not be timetabled or unavailable for whatever reason at the time of our visit.

26/09/2023 Steam & Sail in the Elegant English Riviera

5

44-45

26/09/2023 Romantic Highlander

5

94-95

28/09/2023 Grand Tour - Wales Coast to Coast

12

12-13

28/09/2023 Nostalgic Lakeland Railways & Cumbria

5

70-71

28/09/2023 Isle of Man Explorer

5

62-63

03/10/2023 Golden Highlander

5

100-101

* DENOTES NEW TOUR

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G rand T our by R ail – C oastal N ostalgia in the S unny S outh

10 DAYS From £1869

A unique Grand Tour by Rail brimming with seaside charm, heritage steam railways and stunning coastal vistas. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane and journey along the stunning south coast staying in Kent, Dorset and Devon visiting many of our favourite nostalgic attractions.

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DEPARTS Friday 28 April & 22 September 2023

★ Journey on the nostalgic Swanage Railway ★ Experience the famous Seaton Tramway ★ Relax on a scenic Dar tmouth River cruise ★ Steam along the English Riviera coastline on the South Devon Steam Railway

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Discover the beautiful and contrasting coastlines of Kent, Dorset, and Devon ★ Ride the Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Heritage Railway ★ Uncover the secret War time Tunnels at Dover Castle ★ Take a tour, tasting and dinner at Britain’s oldest brewery ★ Climb aboard historic warships

★ Explore the ancient streets of Canterbury and England’s oldest Cathedral ★ Steam on the Kent & East Sussex Railway ★ Enjoy a scenic tour by vintage bus on the Isle of Wight ★ Travel back in time on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway ★ Hop on board the Purbeck Breezer and admire the coastal vistas

HOTELS • Ashford International Hotel, Ashford • Best Western Carlton Hotel, Bournemouth • The Livermead House Hotel, Torquay For fur ther details of our Coastal Nostalgia in the Sunny South hotels, please visit our website www.railtrail.co.uk

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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G rand T our by R ail – D erry to K erry

12 DAYS From £2199

Here is our recreation of Palin’s second ‘Great Railway Journey’ from ‘Derry to Kerry’! Experience the fabulous line from Coleraine to Londonderry and the scenic East Coast Line from Dublin to Wexford, enjoy the contrasts of Belfast, Dublin, Waterford and Tralee, and wonder at the natural beauty of the Causeway Coast and the Ring of Kerry, all rounded off with a final shindig in Dublin. Cead Mile Failte!

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DEPARTS Thursday 21 September 2023

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Marvel at the Giant’s Causeway, a unique natural phenomenon ★ Arrive at the Causeway aboard the Bushmills Railway ★ Discover picturesque Dunluce Castle ★ Experience Nor thern Ireland’s great scenic rail journey ★ Tour the walls of Derry-Londonderry ★ Visit the Titanic Experience in Belfast ★ Sightsee in Dublin’s fair city

★ Take in the Irish Republic’s most scenic railway along the East Coast ★ Learn about Ireland’s emigrant history at Dunbrody Emigrant Ship Museum ★ ExploreWaterford and visit the famous Waterford Crystal ★ Trundle through the Suir Valley on the heritage Suir Valley Railway ★ Enjoy the fabulous views of the Ring of Kerry ★ Let your hair down with a final night’s dinner and Irish Show in Dublin

HOTELS • North West Castle, Stranraer • Londonderry Arms, Carnlough • Academy Plaza Hotel, Dublin • Treacy’s Hotel, Waterford • Benners Hotel, Tralee For fur ther details of our Derry to Kerry hotels, please visit our website www.railtrail.co.uk

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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G rand T our by R ail – W ales C oast to C oast

12 DAYS From £1979

Another unique Grand Tour by Rail, visiting some of our best loved hotels, crossing Wales from coast to coast. From our bases in Carmarthen, Llandrindod, and Llandudno we tick off more steam and heritage railways than you could imagine, plus we bask in the wonderful scenery of the valleys, mountains, and coasts.

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DEPARTS Thursday 28 September 2023

★ Conwy Valley Line scenic train journey ★ Great Orme Mountain tram ride ★ Stay in some of our most popular hotels

★ Steam on the Vale of Rheidol Railway – one of the Great Little Trains of Wales ★ Marvel at reservoirs and mountains on the Brecon Mountain Railway ★ Visit the Bala Lake Railway ★ Enjoy the fabulous Llangollen Railway ★ Explore Snowdonia on theWelsh Highland Railway, world famous Ffestiniog Railway and picturesque Llanberis Lake Railway ★ Spectacular Snowdon Mountain Railway

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Explore the Pembrokeshire Coast & St David’s ★ Enjoy a day in beautiful Tenby ★ Visit the Teifi Railway ★ Discover the National Botanic Gardens of Wales ★ Travel along the picturesque Heart of Wales Line & Cambrian Line ★ Experience the Talyllyn Railway, the mother of all preserved lines

HOTELS • The Ivy Bush Royal Hotel, Carmarthen • The Metropole Hotel, Llandrindod Wells • The Empire Hotel, Llandudno For fur ther details of our Wales Coast to Coast tour hotels, please visit our website www.railtrail.co.uk

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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G rand T our by R ail – L and ’ s E nd to J ohn O’G roats

12 DAYS From £2589

Travel coast to coast from Land’s End to John O’Groats, including many of Britain’s great scenic rail journeys along the way. Explore England, Scotland & Wales on a one off, once in a lifetime, grand rail tour of mainland Britain!

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DEPARTS Thursday 7 September 2023

★ Steam across Glenfinnan Viaduct on the Jacobite SteamTrain ★ Take in the lovely scenery through the Great Glen alongside Loch Ness ★ Stay at the original Railtrail Tours hotel, the Palace in Inverness ★ Enjoy Sir Michael Palin’s original ‘Great Railway Journey’ on the Kyle Line ★ Touch the top of the country at John O’Groats

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

HOTELS • Royal Duchy Hotel, Falmouth • Queen Hotel, Chester • Bridge of Orchy Hotel, Bridge of Orchy • Palace Hotel & Spa, Inverness For fur ther details of our Land’s End to John O’Groats tour hotels, please visit our website www.railtrail.co.uk

★ Relax in Falmouth, Cornwall ★ Visit Land’s End & Cape Cornwall ★ Marvel at theWelsh Highland Railway & the Ffestiniog Railway ★ Enjoy the Llangollen Steam Railway & a Canal Cruise ★ Unwind in the hear t of the Scottish Highlands at Bridge of Orchy

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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G rand T our by R ail – S ix W onders of the W aterways

10 DAYS From £1475

There are said to be ‘Seven Wonders of the Waterways’ and on this great railway holiday we visit six! Our Railtrail grand tour begins at the very heart of the industrial revolution at a hotel within the Ironbridge World Heritage site, then explores the masterpieces of Victorian engineering with boat trips and steam trains galore.

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DEPARTS Saturday 10 June & 16 September 2023

★ Steam on the Keighley &Wor th Valley Railway ★ Visit Saltaire, another UNESCOWorld Heritage site ★ Walk the canal lock staircase at Bingley Five Rise Locks

★ Masterpiece of the canals, breathtaking Pontcysyllte Aqueduct ★ Journey on the nostalgic Llangollen Railway ★ Cruise along the Bridgewater Canal, viewing Barton Swing Aqueduct ★ Steam excursion on the East Lancashire Railway ★ Visit BurnleyWeavers’Triangle and walk part of Burnley Embankment ★ Discover Queen Street Mill, the last surviving 19th century steam powered weaving mill ★ Boat trip into Standedge Tunnel, the longest, deepest, and highest canal tunnel in Britain

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ Begin our tour at a hotel within the Ironbridge Gorge UNESCOWorld Heritage site ★ Visit Blists Hill Victorian Village and tour Ironbridge ★ Steam on the Severn Valley Railway ★ Get to know Chester on a River Dee cruise ★ Ander ton Boat Lift, marvel of Victorian engineering ★ Discover the country’s last remaining open-pan salt works, now preserved as a museum

HOTELS • Best Western Valley Hotel, Ironbridge • Queen Hotel, Chester • Best Western Oaks Hotel, Burnley • Midland Hotel, Bradford For fur ther details of our SixWonders of theWaterways hotels, please visit our website www.railtrail.co.uk

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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G rand T our by R ail – T he T ranspyrenean

14 DAYS From £2895

The Red Train, the Yellow Train and the Blue Train can be found in many itineraries, but only Railtrail takes you through the heart of the Pyrenees, staying in local hotels and getting to know the region with visits into Spain and France. Our grand tour stays in the foothills and valley stations, primed for spectacular excursions. Add in the Tren del Ciment, a stay on the Catalan coast and the ‘Truffle Train’ through the Dordogne for a fortnight’s adventure not found anywhere else.

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DEPARTS Saturday 27 May & 16 September 2023

★ Visit the perfect medieval walled city of Carcassonne ★ Experience a cross border rail adventure to Spanish Catalonia ★ Soar up from the valley on the Vall de Nuria rack railway (Blue Train) ★ Visit exciting Barcelona, the proud capital of Catalonia ★ Explore the whole of the ‘Petit Train Jaune’ line ★ Relax in the Mediterranean resor t of Argeles-sur-Mer ★ Visit enchanting Collioure

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Steam through the Dordogne on the ‘Truffadou’Truffle Train ★ Visit Foix and Ax-les-Thermes, charming towns in the foothills ★ Explore the delightful medieval core of Mirepoix ★ Taste Blanquette de Limoux sparkling wine ★ Trundle past mysterious Cathare Castles on the ‘Train Rouge’

HOTELS • Grand Hotel Terminus, Brive • Cartier Hotel, Quillan • Hotel Catalunya Park, Ribes de Freser • L’Oustalet, Font Romeu • Hotel du Lido, Argelès-sur-Mer For fur ther details of our The Transpyrenean hotels, please visit our website www.railtrail.co.uk

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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F rom C oast to C apital – A S cenic S eine C ruise

7 DAYS From £2099

N E W TO U R

Set sail on the Seine River and relax on a full board cruise to discover impressive architecture and rich cultural heritage on this wonderful itinerary from Honfleur to Paris. Discover Honfleur’s picturesque port, explore Monet’s charming home, visit the famous monuments of France’s vibrant capital, immerse yourself in history in Rouen and admire the magnificent Château de Fontainebleau.

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DEPARTS Wednesday 28 June & Thursday 21 September 2023

★ Visit the charming home of Claude Monet ★ See the famous Parisian sights on a panoramic tour ★ Explore the palatial Château de Fontainebleau ★ Cruise the lights of Paris by night

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Enjoy a relaxing, full board Seine River cruise ★ Take a stroll around the picturesque por t of Honfleur ★ Discover the historic city of Rouen

HOTELS - SHIPS

MS Seine Princess (June) The MS Seine Princess can accommodate 138 passengers, with 67 cabins spread over two decks.The tastefully decorated cabins are equipped with freeWi-Fi,TV, safe, air conditioning and en-suite facilities.There is a bright lounge bar with a dance floor on the upper deck, as well as an elegant restaurant where guests can enjoy French cuisine whilst taking in the lovely views cour tesy of the large bay windows. The sun deck offers the ideal place to relax and admire the panoramic views, with chairs, sun loungers and a large, shaded area. MS Botticelli (September) Completely renovated in 2016, the MS can accommodate 149 passengers in 75 cabins over two decks.The tastefully decorated cabins are equipped with freeW-Fi, TV, safe, air conditioning and en-suite facilities. Located on the upper deck, the restaurant, where all meals are served during the cruise, offers excellent cuisine in a refined setting, where large windows allow guests to fully enjoy the panorama. Also situated on the upper deck is the lounge / bar with a dance floor. Comfor table sun loungers are provided on the sun deck with a large, shaded area, the ideal place to relax and admire the surrounding landscapes.

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

21

6 DAYS From £1259

A msterdam , T ulips , C heese & S team

Railtrail’s popular Holland tour features the incomparable bulbs in bloom at Keukenhof Gardens, plus the historic steam train from Hoorn to Medemblik. Not forgetting a day in Amsterdam with canal trip and we also stay in Alkmaar to coincide with their cheese market! We then sneak in some extra steam at Goes-Borsele, whilst staying at the oldest hotel in the Netherlands.

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DEPARTS Wednesday 12 April & 26 April 2023

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ World famous Keukenhof Gardens at its finest with tulips in bloom ★ Enjoy a round trip in Nor th Holland on the Hoorn to Medemblik Steam train and by boat on the Ijsselmeer ★ Take a relaxing cruise amidst Amsterdam’s canals ★ Experience Alkmaar’s traditional cheese market day ★ Visit picturesque Delft ★ Enjoy more steam at Goes-Borsele ★ Stay in two traditional and historic hotels

HOTELS Grand Hotel Alkmaar

This 4-star hotel couldn’t be in a better position in Alkmaar. Set in the city’s former 19th century Post Office building, we are just a few minutes’ walk from the Grote Kerk medieval church, the market square and cheese museum. Hotel De Draak, Bergen Op Zoom The 4-star Grand Hotel de Draak is the oldest hotel in the Netherlands.With over 600 years’ experience of hospitality, you will find modern comfor ts within a medieval building in the very centre of Bergen op Zoom on the Grote Markt square.

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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9 DAYS From £1999

T he G reat G erman R ail A le T rail

Back by popular demand our tour of German beers, from Düsseldorf’s Altbier to Cologne’s rival Kölsch plus Bockbier and even smoked ale. Discover a country with colourful regional differences of taste, language, culture and lifestyle. Prost!

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DEPARTS Saturday 22 April & 7 October 2023

★ Tour, tasting and dinner at Nuremberg’s labyrinthine Alstadthof brewery ★ Tour the beautiful UNESCOWorld Heritage city of Bamberg ★ Experience Schlenkerla smoked beer with lunch at the brewery restaurant ★ Uncover Munich’s brewing heritage at the Oktoberfest Museum ★ Enjoy lunch at the world-famous Hofbräuhaus ★ Farewell Kölsch tasting beer tour and dinner a Cologne Brewery Tavern

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Welcome evening guided Altbier tour of Düsseldorf with beer tasting ★ Ride on the Schwebebahn ‘dingle dangle’ railway ★ Steam to the top of the Brocken Mountain ★ Guided walking tour of picturesque Wernigerode ★ Visit the home of Bock beer in Einbeck ★ Guided sightseeing tour of historic Nuremberg

HOTELS • Fleming’s Express Hotel, Wuppertal • HKK Hotel, Wernigerode

• InterCity Hotel Nuremberg (April) , NH Collection Nuremberg (October) • Maritim Hotel, Cologne For fur ther details of our Great German Rail Ale Trail hotels please visit our website www.railtrail.co.uk

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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H arz M ountains W inter W onderland

7 DAYS From £1099

Germany’s timeless Harz Mountains are arguably even more spectacular in winter with the towns half-timbered houses and snow dusted forests resembling a picturesque Christmas card scene. Our popular Winter Wonderland tour now includes a day to relax and explore beautiful Wernigerode.

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DEPARTS Sunday 12 February & 12 March 2023

HOTELS Fleming’s Express Hotel, Wuppertal

This modern 4-star hotel puts you right in the centre of Wupper tal, close to the main station and just a short walk from the Schwebebahn ‘dingle-dangle railway’. Among other things, the rooms are equipped with free high-speedWi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, and a flat-screen TV. The hotel has a bar, restaurant, and fitness centre. HKK Hotel Wernigerode This stylish 4 star hotel is ideally positioned close to the historic old town centre and theWernigerode narrow gauge railway station.The hotel offers well equipped comfor table bedrooms with TV and hairdryer. Enjoy local culinary delights in the buffet restaurant and relax in the Berliner Ziller bar. Leisure facilities at the hotel include a sauna, gym and jacuzzi.

★ Indulge in ‘Kaffee und Kuchen’ at the restaurant at the summit of the Brocken ★ Travel to the beautiful half-timbered town of Quedlinburg, a former imperial capital ★ Steam on the narrow-gauge Selketalbahn Railway

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Your choice of First or Standard Class rail travel from London to Germany and return ★ Enjoy a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage half-timbered Goslar ★ Experience an action-packed steam hauled journey up the Brocken Mountain

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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H arz M ountains S team – T he J ewel of G ermany

7 DAYS From £1379

A great Railtrail holiday to discover picturesque medieval towns and villages surrounded by a panoramic range of stunning mountains, romantic valleys and fairytale woods - full of folklore, fascinating history, and superb steam trains.

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DEPARTS Saturday 10 June, 22 July & 2 September 2023

★ Discover Wernigerode’s ‘fairytale’ castle ★ Stay in quality hotels inWupper tal & Wernigerode

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ Enjoy the famous Harz Mountains steam railway, travel freely with our included 3-day Freedom of Harz Pass ★ Visit picturesque timber-framed ‘Hansel & Gretel’ towns ★ View pastoral landscapes and forests ★ Ride on the Schwebebahn ‘dingle dangle’ railway ★ Explore the medieval town of Quedlinburg HOTELS Fleming’s Express Hotel, Wuppertal

This modern 4-star hotel puts you right in the centre of Wupper tal, close to the main station and just a short walk from the Schwebebahn ‘dingle-dangle railway’. Among other things, the rooms are equipped with free high-speedWi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, and a flat-screen TV. The hotel has a bar, restaurant, and fitness centre. HKK Hotel Wernigerode This stylish 4-star hotel is ideally positioned close to the historic old town centre and theWernigerode narrow gauge railway station.The hotel offers well equipped comfor table bedrooms with TV and hairdryer. Enjoy local culinary delights in the buffet restaurant and relax in the Berliner Ziller bar. Leisure facilities at the hotel include a sauna, gym and jacuzzi.

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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8 DAYS From £1949

T he B ig F ive versus T he S toosbahn

One of our most popular Swiss rail holidays features five completely unique mountain railroad excursions – the Pilatus Railway, the Rigi Railway, the Stanserhorn, the Titlis cable car and the Hammetschwand Lift…plus the world’s steepest funicular railway the Stoosbahn! Experience six of the best Swiss rail journeys from our base overlooking stunning Lake Lucerne!

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DEPARTS Saturday 17 June & 12 August 2023

★ Enjoy incredible views at the Hammetschwand Lift, the world’s highest outdoor rock lift ★ Visit to the new Stoosbahn, the world’s steepest funicular railway

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ Your choice of First or Standard Class rail travel to Switzerland and return ★ 4-star hotel beside Lake Lucerne with leisure facilities and fabulous views ★ Excursion on the Rigi Railway, Europe’s first mountain railway ★ Breathtaking ride on the Titlis Rotair Cable Car, the world’s first revolving gondola ★ Discover the Pilatus Railway, Europe’s steepest cog railway ★ Experience traditional and modern technology at the Stanserhorn

HOTEL Seehotel Pilatus, Hergiswil

This 4-star hotel stands directly at the lakeshore on lovely Lake Lucerne in the village of Hergiswil, just a shor t train journey from Lucerne itself, surrounded by majestic mountain views.The hotel was bought as a humble guest house in 1911 by ancestors of the Fuchs family, who still own and run the Seehotel.There have been many changes since 1911 and whilst providing a relaxing base in a great location for all our excursions, the hotel also features a host of leisure facilities including a large indoor pool, jacuzzi, saunas, sun deck and lakeside terrace.

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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S wiss G lacier E xpress & T he B ernina

9 DAYS From £2399

EXTENDEDTOUR

Two of the world’s greatest railway journeys on one tour! Enjoy the classic Glacier Express journey across the Swiss Alps, followed by the Bernina Express in its full glory. Not forgetting Lausanne, Montreux, and St Moritz, plus stays on Lake Geneva and in the Engadin Valley. Plus, for 2023 we have enhanced the tour by adding an outbound overnight in the beautiful city of Basel for a more leisurely travel experience.

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DEPARTS Wednesday 7 June, 5 July & 20 September 2023

★ Take in great views of the Upper Engadin Valley from the Muottas Muragl funicular ★ Visit stylish St Moritz ★ Witness two of the world’s great railway journeys on one tour

★ Stroll along the picturesque lakeside in Montreux ★ Enjoy time to explore destinations independently with a free transpor t card ★ Admire the scenery from the world famous Swiss Glacier Express with lunch provided ★ Stay in Pontresina in the beautiful Upper Engadin Valley close to the Bernina Pass ★ Marvel at the equally spectacular Bernina Express train journey

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ Explore the historic city of Basel ★ Take a paddle steamer cruise Lake Neuchatel ★ Discover the ‘Olympic City’ of Lausanne ★ Stay just a shor t stroll from the stunning lakeside promenade of Lake Geneva ★ Cruise across Lake Geneva to visit Château Chillon

HOTELS • GAIA Hotel, Basel • Best Western Plus Hotel Mirabeau, Lausanne • Hotel Schweizerhof, Pontresina For fur ther details of our Swiss Glacier Express & the Bernina hotels please visit our website www.railtrail.co.uk

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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8 DAYS From £2299

S witzerland ’ s S team - powered S ix

See stunning Switzerland in style on our great steam powered railway holiday, based on the lakeshore of lovely Lake Lucerne. Cruise across three Swiss lakes the nostalgic way by paddle-steamer and experience three exhilarating steam train excursions in the Swiss mountains, plus take a trip on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway!

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DEPARTS Saturday 1 July & 2 September 2023

★ Steam up the famous Brienzer Rothornbahn ★ Enjoy a steam excursion on the Furka Steam Railway ★ Cruise gently around Lake Lucerne by paddle-steamer

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ Your choice of First or Standard Class rail travel to Switzerland and return ★ 4-star hotel beside Lake Lucerne with leisure facilities and fabulous views ★ Excursion on the Rigi Railway on one of its rare days of steam ★ Steamboat ride across Lake Zurich from Rapperswil to Zurich with free time in Zurich ★ Discover the Pilatus Railway, Europe’s steepest cog railway ★ Travel across the stunning Brünig Pass by train to Brienz

HOTEL Seehotel Pilatus, Hergiswil

This 4-star hotel stands directly at the lakeshore on lovely Lake Lucerne in the village of Hergiswil, just a shor t train journey from Lucerne itself, surrounded by majestic mountain views.The hotel was bought as a humble guest house in 1911 by ancestors of the Fuchs family, who still own and run the Seehotel.There have been many changes since 1911 and whilst providing a relaxing base in a great location for all our excursions, the hotel also features a host of leisure facilities including a large indoor pool, jacuzzi, saunas, sun deck and lakeside terrace.

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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W hite P ass – S wiss W inter S now T rain A dventure

8 DAYS From £1659

Our White Pass Winter Snow Train Adventure is a Swiss lakes and mountains tour with a difference. Featuring a great selection of excursions not found anywhere else, you can marvel at the wintry scenery on the Goldenpass Line, the route of the Glacier Express and the Rigi Mountain Railway, travel up Mount Titlis, and relax on the shore of the beautiful Lake Lucerne.

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DEPARTS Saturday 4 February & 11 March 2023

★ Spend a day on the route of the Glacier Express ★ Relax on Lake Lucerne’s steamers ★ Make the most of your Local Transpor t Pass to help you explore Lucerne on your free day

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ Your choice of First or Standard Class rail travel to Switzerland and return ★ 4 star hotel beside Lake Lucerne with leisure facilities and fabulous views ★ Experience the Rigi Railway, Europe’s first mountain railway ★ Enjoy a breathtaking ride on the Titlis Rotair Cable Car, the world’s first revolving gondola ★ Take the Voralpen Express to the pilgrimage site of Einsiedeln ★ Discover the wonderfully scenic Goldenpass Line rail journey to Interlaken and Grindelwald HOTEL Seehotel Pilatus, Hergiswil

This 4-star hotel stands directly at the lakeshore on lovely Lake Lucerne in the village of Hergiswil, just a shor t train journey from Lucerne itself, surrounded by majestic mountain views.The hotel was bought as a humble guest house in 1911 by ancestors of the Fuchs family, who still own and run the Seehotel.There have been many changes since 1911 and whilst providing a relaxing base in a great location for all our excursions, the hotel also features a host of leisure facilities including a large indoor pool, jacuzzi, saunas, sun deck and lakeside terrace.

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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9 DAYS From £2699

S wiss M ountain S team

EXTENDEDTOUR

Switzerland and steam trains – a delightful combination as Railtrail Tours take you to the heart of this beautiful country to experience some amazing mountain rail journeys and glorious lake steamer cruises. Plus, for 2023 we have enhanced the tour by adding an outbound overnight in the beautiful city of Basel for a more leisurely travel experience.

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DEPARTS Monday 24 July, 21 August & 18 September 2023

★ Coffee & cake at the Panorama Restaurant at Harder Kulm ★ Stay in beautiful car-free alpine spa town of Wengen ★ Bernese Oberland Pass – offering freedom of the region on your free day

★ Return rail journey up the spectacular Schynige Platte ★ Steam along the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz on the Brünig Steam Railway ★ Visit the Schilthorn summit – James Bond 007 mountain ★ Discover impressive glacier waterfalls at Trummelbach Falls ★ Lake Thun cruise & funicular up Harder Kulm

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ Explore the historic city of Basel ★ Shimmering blue lakes, past alpine meadows, up to heavenly skies, by steam train ★ Ride the extended Furka Steam Railway – original route of the Glacier Express ★ The amazing Brienz Rothorn steam mountain railway

HOTELS • GAIA Hotel, Basel • Sunstar Hotel, Wengen For fur ther details of our Swiss Mountain Steam tour hotels, please visit our website www.railtrail.co.uk

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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T he C ream of C ornish C oasts & C ountry

5 DAYS From £735

Experience a delightful Cornish rail holiday as we meander along scenic branch lines, capturing the cream of the coastal and countryside views, to visit charming ports and seaside resorts, an award-winning vineyard and the world renowned Eden Project.

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DEPARTS Thursday 11 May, 22 June, 21 September & 19 October 2023

★ Taste the wines at the award winning Trevibban Vineyard ★ Steam nostalgia on the Bodmin & Wenford line ★ Sample a traditional Cornish Cream Tea ★ Discover delightful Looe, Penzance & St Ives ★ Stay at the impressive Lanhydrock Hotel with golf course

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Journey along the famous English Riviera coastal route ★ Experience spectacular scenic branch lines ★ Visit the fabulous Eden Project ★ Explore beautiful Padstow, famous for its seafood

HOTEL The Lanhydrock Hotel, Bodmin

Located in the countryside just outside of Bodmin, close to Lanhydrock House & Gardens, the Lanhydrock Hotel overlooks one of Cornwall’s finest golf courses amidst an area of parkland.The contemporary bedrooms are well-equipped with TV, complimentaryWi-Fi, hairdryer, and tea/coffee making facilities.The stylish restaurant has beautiful views of the countryside and golf course.There is a spacious bar and outside terrace with seating.

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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5 DAYS From £735

S pringtime G ardens of C ornwall

A joyful Cornish holiday that takes advantage of the mild spring climate to visit some of the most enchanting gardens in Cornwall. From great grandeur and scale to secret gardens of romantic planting, we explore at a gentle pace with an included steam train journey.

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DEPARTS Thursday 13 April & 20 April 2023

★ Discover the Springtime tranquility of Pinetum Gardens ★ Explore the Lost Gardens of Heligan, one of the most loved gardens in the UK ★ See the National Magnolia Collection at Caerhays Castle Gardens

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Steam nostalgia on the Bodmin & Wenford line ★ Visit the Lanhydrock House and Gardens, close to our chosen hotel ★ Visit the fabulous Eden Project

HOTEL The Lanhydrock Hotel, Bodmin

Located in the countryside just outside of Bodmin, close to Lanhydrock House & Gardens, the Lanhydrock Hotel overlooks one of Cornwall’s finest golf courses amidst an area of parkland.The contemporary bedrooms are well-equipped with TV, complimentaryWi-Fi, hairdryer, and tea/coffee making facilities.The stylish restaurant has beautiful views of the countryside and golf course.There is a spacious bar and outside terrace with seating.

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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S team & S ail in the E legant E nglish R iviera

5 DAYS From £559

A beautiful rail holiday along one of Britain’s most iconic routes to the English Riviera, with opportunity to explore the beauty and charm of Devon’s magnificent coastline by boat as well as travelling on two of Devon’s finest steam railways.

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DEPARTS Tuesday 18 April, 6 June, 18 July & 26 September 2023

★ Travel by steam train along the beautiful English Riviera coastline ★ Glorious sightseeing around Torquay ★ Visit Dar tmouth, historic naval town ★ Take in a circular cruise viewing sights from the majestic River Dar t ★ Hotel on the stunning seafront

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ Arrive in Torquay along one of Britain’s truly great coastal rail journeys ★ Enjoy the South Devon Steam Railway to Buckfastleigh

HOTEL The Livermead House Hotel, Torquay

The elegant 3-star Livermead House Hotel was built in 1820 and has a picturesque seafront location. It is ideally situated just a short walk from the train station and a level walk along the promenade toTorquay town centre.The Livermead House offers a traditional flavour, outstanding sea views and high standards of cuisine. There is freeWi-Fi in all public areas.The hotel has lovely gardens with seating and an outdoor swimming pool plus, snooker room, squash cour t, gym, indoor bowls, and sauna.

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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J ersey , G uernsey , H erm & S ark

9 DAYS From £1599

A unique and comprehensive tour of the Channel Islands, from Jersey’s beautiful bays and traditional towns to Guernsey’s lovely beaches, not forgetting Herm and Sark, where there are no cars. Explore, relax, and unwind in the mild climates of the charming Channel Islands.

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DEPARTS Monday 8 May, Saturday 10 June & Tuesday 11 July 2023

★ Relax and experience the island life and mild climate ★ Guided coach tour of Guernsey’s most picturesque scenes, rich heritage, and hor ticulture ★ Horse & carriage tour of idyllic Isle of Sark ★ Visit the island of Herm, where there is a ‘no cars’ policy ★ Relax in beautiful St Peter Por t ★ Spend your first and final nights in Bournemouth, returning home at leisure

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

★ Travel by train and stay overnight in Bournemouth ★ Take the ferry to and from the Channel Islands ★ Enjoy a ‘round island’ tour of Jersey ★ Spot Jersey cows grazing in peaceful fields ★ Stay at one of the Guernsey’s most popular hotels, with stunning sea views and beach walks

HOTELS • Bournemouth Hotels • Merton Hotel, Jersey • Peninsula Hotel, Guernsey • The Beausite Hotel, Jersey (May) For fur ther details of our Jersey, Guernsey, Herm & Sark hotels please visit our website www.railtrail.co.uk

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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