Bournemouth is now officially coach friendly, after the seaside town received the special status status from the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK (CPT).
The status was awarded following the work undertaken in the town to provide coaches with greater ease of access to the resort’s key visitor attractions and facilities. The work also included actively promoting coach tourism across the town.
Mark Smith, director of tourism for Bournemouth, commented, “We are delighted to achieve the CPT ‘Coach Friendly’ status. It is very important that forward-thinking, modern destinations cater well for visitors arriving by coach since they represent a vital part of the tourism market. The ‘Coach Friendly’ status is a recognised standard that Bournemouth is extremely proud to have received.”
Jenni Wilkinson, sector representative on the Bournemouth Tourism Management Board added, “The award is testament to the strong partnership working in the town. The assessor was very impressed with the level of commitment shown across the sectors during the tour.”
Bournemouth for groups
Bournemouth offers seven miles of beaches, Victorian architecture and a lively nightlife that groups can enjoy.
The town’s east cliff lift is a popular choice for groups as it offers access to the beach and cliff tops. It was built in 1908 and includes a small heritage display in the top toll house.
Groups may also enjoy Durlston Castle and Country Park, which features waymarked trails, the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site and even the chance to watch dolphins or wildlife upon visiting.
There’s also The Fine Foundation Gallery at the castle which has an ongoing programme of exhibitions, and an outdoor theatre where groups can enjoy evenings of classical and folk music.
Bournemouth also offers Bournemouth Pier which offers views of the Isle of Wight on one side and the Purbeck hills on the other. Groups will find attractions, entertainment and retail outlets along the pier, also.
For more information visit www.bournemouth.co.uk.
Wales-based coach tour operator Leisuretime by Toureasy held its first customer reunion weekend and celebrated by inviting the world-famous Treorchy Male Choir to give their clients a special surprise concert.
Group Leisure & Travel was one of the 20 new members of the Coach Tourism Association to attend its annual conference weekend in Newcastle.
The popular annual conference and awards organised by Dunwood Travel took place at Warner’s Studley Castle in Warwickshire, between 3rd and 5th January with around 350 guests attending.
The award-winning musical by Jethro Compton and Darren Clark will transfer to the West End following a sold-out run at Southwark Playhouse.
