England

Group at the National Memorial Arboretum

D-Day 80: where to go to commemorate the anniversary with your group

A round-up of special exhibitions, events, coach trips and holidays to mark the 80th anniversary of the D-Day Normandy landings in 2024. 

A fountain and historic building Madrid, Spain

Where group organisers are looking forward to visiting in 2024

GTOs have been telling us about the holiday and day trip destinations they’re visiting with their group throughout the year - we’re very jealous! 

Members of GTO Richard Preston's group waiting to board a pleasure boat on the Norfolk Broads

Great group holidays from chance GLT Show encounter

GTO Richard Preston, The Valentine Club, tells us about a string of sell-out group holidays following a chance meeting at the Group Leisure & Travel Show in Milton Keynes. 

A group celebrate a Christmas drink at Warner Leisure Hotel's Thoresby Hall

Christmas short breaks and holidays for groups in 2023 and 2024

We pick out some fantastic festive short breaks, holidays and cruise ideas for future Christmas trips with your group.  

Openings across the UK

New 2023 openings: exhibitions, museums and historical sites

We take a look at some of the biggest new openings for groups to consider…

Book shelves in a library

5 UK cities which are ideal for book lovers

Treat the bookworms in your group with a visit full of literary inspiration and excellence at these top UK cities.

Stonehenge, Wiltshire

10 iconic attractions in England to visit with your group

Here are ten amazing group-friendly visit ideas in England, ranging from historic venues to beautiful gardens.

ZSL Whipsnade Zoo

Good to be back: photos from some of the attractions that have reopened to visitors

We pick some of the best photos from some of the attractions across the UK that welcomed back visitors this week. 

Red squirrel spotting

Wildlife escapes to the countryside and coast of England

World Wildlife Day is a good excuse to remind ourselves what can be found throughout the countryside and along the coast of England. They are home to some of the world’s most amazing animals and you don’t always need to go far or put on virtual reality goggles to have a close encounter.

Doune Castle, Scotland

8 quirky places to visit in the UK made famous by films and TV shows

Research has revealed some of the UK’s more unusual and quirky locations groups can visit that have been made popular by their appearances in film and TV, including Harry Potter, Outlander and Downton Abbey.

Blenheim Rose Garden

10 fantastic family days out

Spending time with family is important, so what can you do to make it memorable? With some fantastic offers and new activities, here are ten attractions for family groups of all ages. 

Rabbie's Tours

Rabbie’s releases ‘off the beaten track experiences’ for 2021

Tour operator Rabbie’s is inviting small groups to avoid the crowds and travel to hidden gems through a selection of new staycation experiences including Scottish tours, the beautiful Isle of Wight and the ancient Roman Baths.

The Test Valley in Hampshire

Fantastic walking routes for small groups this winter

Travel may be restricted at the moment but there is still the option of staying local and heading out for some glorious walks, adhering to the rule of six. Here are some top picks to blow off the seasonal cobwebs: 

Chatsworth House

8 of the most beautiful places in… Derbyshire

From a church with a twist to the natural rivers and dales that weave throughout this rural county, here are eight picturesque places in Derbyshire for groups to visit. 

Coventry Transport Museum

6 of the best museums for families

From finding out about the toilet habits of astronauts to a journey through Britain’s fascinating car heritage, there’s a museum to suit family groups, whatever your age range and interests. 

Bristol

The UK destinations that can help to recreate a European holiday

While your holidays to Europe may have been cancelled or rearranged, we look at some staycation ideas for places in the UK that may be able to replicate overseas destinations.

Stonehenge

8 of the most beautiful places in… Wiltshire

In this instalment, we shine a spotlight on Wiltshire, where green landscapes, atmospheric ruins and even a former Prime Minister’s house awaits…

Monsal Trail, Derbyshire

8 green spaces for outstanding views in England

Here are eight places across the country which offer visitors large outdoor spaces to explore with spectacular views.

Arley Hall & Garden's Herbaceous Border

GLT’s top picks: outdoor attractions in Cheshire

A look back at some of the GLT editor’s highlights on a visit to the county earlier this year. 

Bombay Sapphire Gin and Tonic Cocktail

Get a taste of England’s best breweries, distilleries and vineyards

With a host of virtual celebrations and online tours, everyone can get a taste of the action, while also thinking about where you might go on a group visit in the future.

Olivia Goodfellow with friends at Whitstable

Group organisers share some of their best days out

We asked a number of GTOs to share some of their best days out so you can think about where you might go in the future.

Durham Cathedral

5 experiences to enjoy with your group… from home

We may not be able to enjoy the real deal right now but there are still ways to bring your members together, whether it’s mastering new skills or a spot of armchair travel. 

Norfolk

8 of the most beautiful places in… Norfolk

Remarkable architecture, lush garden estates, vast beach fronts and bird-filled marshes: how about thinking of a future group trip to Norfolk? It’s got it all for the snap-happy individuals in your group.

Jane Austen's House Museum in Chawton, Hampshire

What’s new for groups in…Hampshire

A look at some of the latest openings, events and exhibitions for groups across ‘Jane Austen’ county in the latest installment of this special series. 

Emma at the Eden Project

Some of the places the GLT team have visited in 2019

The Group Leisure & Travel team have been here, there and everywhere in 2019. We’ve picked out a handful of our favourite visits to help inspire your next group trip. 

Coronation Street set tour

Special anniversaries and new openings for groups in 2020

We’ve rounded up some of the big new openings, special anniversaries and more taking place throughout next year, in one handy feature for group travel organisers to start planning their next outings. 

Brighton Pier

In pictures: 10 alternative city breaks to discover

Want to go where the locals are, rather than the tourists? Here’s a list of list of quirky destinations that are a bit more unfamiliar and undiscovered.

1. The Jacobite, Scotland

In pictures: The UK’s top 6 steam railway journeys

It’s full steam ahead as vintage trains from Scotland, England and Wales all make the list, perfect for a group day out on the tracks.

Lovell Telescope at Jodrell Bank Observatory, Cheshire

8 of the most stunning new UNESCO World Heritage sites for 2019

A total of 29 new UNESCO World Heritage sites have been added to the official list for this year, including one for the UK. Here are 8 of our favourites. 

Another Place sculpture, Crosby Beach, Merseyside

The magic & mystery of Liverpool & Merseyside

GLT heads to Liverpool & Merseyside to find out what’s new & improved for groups. 

Devon

Top UK destinations to visit this summer

All finalists of the 2018 Group Leisure & Travel Awards, there’s no better time to visit these UK destinations.

Portsmouth

5 seaside spots for groups dreaming of sunny days

We look at five seaside locations to wash away the winter blues and have you dreaming of summer.

Tintagel

5 Sun-sational English Heritage locations to add to the summer list

We round up five English Heritage properties that groups will want to have on their radars this summer.

RHS 2019 calendar of events

The 2019 RHS Flower Shows & Festivals you’ll want in your diaries

Here are nine events that are sure to add a burst of colour to your group calendar in 2019.

Interior shot of Worcester cathedral

5 free things to do in... Worcester

Don’t worry if you’ve left your wallets behind on the coach, because we’ve come up with some top things to do for free in Britain’s towns and cities. This week we visit Worcester.

Swindon STEAM Museum

6 highlights for groups visiting Swindon

It may be well-known for its magic roundabout but Swindon in Wiltshire has plenty more to offer group visitors.

Whitby Abbey in Yorkshire

New group offerings at English Heritage attractions

Inspiration for group travel organisers planning 2019 trips to English Heritage properties including exclusive offers.

HF Holidays has launched a number of themed holidays for 2019

2019 walking holidays in England with a difference

A selection of walks linked to literature, wine tasting or pub visits have been launched by HF Holidays.

Whale Bones Arch Whitby

5 free things to do in… Whitby

The traditional maritime town of Whitby, with its old cobbled streets, picturesque houses and sandy Blue Flag beach is proof that sometimes the best things in life are free. Here are five of them.

Exterior of Chatsworth House

12 film and TV locations in the Peak District

Groups can step into the shoes of their favourite movie stars in some of the many Peak District screen locations, which form the backdrop for Hollywood blockbusters and memorable TV moments.

Callanish

Top 10 prehistoric sites in the UK for group visits

Stonehenge and other ancient stone circles have gripped the imagination of the public for centuries.

Yorkshire Sculpture Park

5 free things to do in Yorkshire

Yorkshire has seen the biggest rise in visitor interest, according to an annual report by VisitEngland, so we round up five of the best free attractions that groups will love.

Keeley at Chatsworth

5 group trip recommendations from the GLT team

Find out where the Group Leisure & Travel team have been recently and why they’d recommend to groups.

Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle recreates history with new Dragon Slayer show

Dragon Slayer features thrilling combat, great acting and an evening of fun, says Laura Sexton, after attending the premiere.

Lake District

Exploring the UK’s National Parks with a group

We round up a selection of ideas for trips to one of the UK’s National Parks this year or next.

Norwich Cathedral

5 free things to do in... Norwich

Norwich - a medieval city that boasts a buzzing, cosmopolitan atmosphere - but what can you do for free? We take a look as a part of our regular series.

The Moon Seat at Anne Hathaway's Cottage. Credit%3A Shakespeare's Birthplace Trust.

13 reasons why Stratford-upon-Avon is such great Shakes

It’s the home of the Bard and attracts huge numbers of visitors each year. We round up some of the delights the town has to offer groups

Thomas Land

Review: Celebrating Thomas Land’s 10th anniversary

Gavin Seljamae-Waite from Yandell Media, which publishes Group Leisure & Travel, reports back from a family day out at Drayton Manor Park’s Thomas Land as it celebrates a special milestone.

Etihad Stadium tour

World Cup fever: Football trips for groups

In light of the World Cup, we round up a selection of top experiences linked to the sport for groups.

Bristol Old Vic

Five of England’s oldest group friendly theatres

We take a look at some of England’s oldest theatres, which also happen to be great for groups.

The outdoors campaign runs from 15th to 24th June and aims to promote areas of natural beauty and encourage us to enjoy some great food against beautiful landscapes. Here are some ideas for group travel organisers to choose from:

GLT’s top picks: 5 places to enjoy National Picnic Week

Here’s a look at some superb spots to lay down a blanket and crack open the ham sandwiches with friends.

Hever Castle

8 highlights for groups visiting Hever Castle

Some sights at Hever Castle groups should simply not miss.

Mersey Ferries

Reasons to visit Liverpool this summer

Liverpool is celebrating its culture this year, so we round up some great events and festivals being held in the city that your group won’t want to miss.

The British Museum

5 free things to do in London

To celebrate London History Day, we round up five itinerary fillers for a day out in London that are dedicated to the capital’s past, and won’t cost you a penny to enjoy.

Gromit Unleashed 2

Treasure trails and city routes for keen explorers

A number of new trails, themed from sculptures to clowns, have been revealed across Britain’s towns and cities.

Dartmoor

5 free things to do in Devon

Heading to Devon in the near future? Fill your group trip with plenty of ideas, from museums to walking trails – and remember you don’t need to splurge to have a great time.

Salisbury Cathedral

Group-friendly ideas in the Medieval city of Salisbury

It’s business as usual in Salisbury and the surrounding Wiltshire area where a warm welcome await groups.

York Minster

6 things you won't want to miss in York

GLT heads to the glorious walled city of York to find out what’s on offer for groups in 2018 and beyond.

Durham Cathedral

New for group trips to County Durham

An augmented reality experience, a castle undergoing a transformation, plus much more; what’s not to be excited about in County Durham?

A street in the Cotswolds

5 free things to do in... The Cotswolds

One of the most famous regions of Britain and boasting some of the most quintessentially English landscapes, it’s always good to remember that The Cotswolds has a number of great free attractions and activities for groups to enjoy.

Exeter Cathedral

Seven free things to do in Exeter

Ways to explore Exeter that won’t cost your group a penny, from wandering through the magnificent cathedral to taking a walk along its historic woollen trail.

Alton Towers

Exciting attractions opening in the UK this year

A survival-themed adventure show and new rides at the world’s only Peppa Pig World are just some of the attractions due to open in the UK this year.

Castle Park in Colchester

5 free things to do in… Colchester

Britain’s oldest recorded town, Colchester boasts a mix of contemporary culture and heritage attractions. Here are five gratis trip ideas for groups to choose from.

Weymouth

Photo gallery: Favourite British seaside resorts revealed

What’s your favourite seaside destination for a long weekend away? Blackpool, Scarborough and Bournemouth are amongst the most popular in the UK, according to a recent survey.

Shingle beach in the Hasting Stade fishing area

5 free things to do in... Hastings

With its maritime heritage, floral history, and renowned programme of festivals and special events, there’s plenty to enjoy for free in 1066 Country for those looking for group travel ideas.

The English Bridge on the River Severn in Shrewsbury

5 free things to do in... Shrewsbury

With its higgledy-piggledy streets and quirky buildings, there are surprises at every corner in the county town of Shrewsbury, Shropshire. Here’s five suggestions for free activities your group can enjoy on their visit.

Trowbridge Town Hall

Ever thought of…Trowbridge?

We take a look at what there is to do for groups in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, from inspiring places to shop, to suitable places for groups to stay.

The Giants are set to return to the city in 2018 as part of the celebrations.

Q&A: Why Liverpool is the 'most transformed city'

Director of Culture Liverpool Claire McColgan tells GLT about the transformation of the city.

The Yorkshire Dales

6 reasons to visit Yorkshire

Today marks Yorkshire Day, so we suggest a selection of quintessential ideas to enjoy the county to the max not only today but all year round.

little Ship Sundowner

Five places to discover the ‘Dunkirk spirit’ in Thanet

In light of the July release of war film, Dunkirk, we shine a spotlight on Thanet’s ties to World War Two.

Padstow

Reasons to visit Cornwall this summer

With Britain expecting one of the hottest summers yet, what better reason to visit some of its beautiful coastline.

Benedict Cumberbatch In The Hollow Crown

5 epic drama film locations in Kent

Get on the trail of Benedict Cumberbatch and Scarlett Johansson on your next group trip to Kent.

Group Accommodation In Yorkshire %7C Group Travel Inspiration %7C The Thornton Lodge%2C Wensleydale

Group accommodation in Yorkshire

Where to stay in Yorkshire for groups who love the dales.

Oak Room In the sunshine at Mitcheldean

Group accommodation in the Cotswolds

Great places for groups to lay their heads in the Cotswolds.

Outside The Beatles Story

Liverpool: six ways to celebrate the City of Music

Six itinerary fillers to celebrate Liverpool’s newly achieved City of Music status.

Blackpool promenade offers a colourful view

Eight fun things to do in Blackpool

With award-winning beaches, lots of entertainment and an exciting history to delve into, Blackpool is a must-visit for all groups.

5 free things to do on the... Isle of Wight

The next destination on our ‘5 Free Things’ hit list is the Isle of Wight. Here’s a host of attractions and events you can enjoy for free when planning a group holiday to the island.