Museums & Galleries

6 of the most unusual group days out in the UK

Our pick of some of the most unique places to take your members for a group trip with a difference.

Bringing the 1950s to life with opening of new ‘welfare hall’ at Beamish

The first building in a new 1950s Town being created at Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, has opened to the public.

RAF museums to host Summer of Spitfire season

The RAF museums, located in London and Cosford, have revealed their programme of events which will pay homage to the iconic World War Two plane.

London’s Science museum opens new futuristic exhibition

The Science Museum has opened a new exhibition named Driverless: Who is in control?, exploring ‘how close we are to living in a world driven by thinking machines.’

UK premiere for Van Gogh immersive experience

Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience will make its UK debut this summer in York city centre, allowing visitors to literally step inside his paintings.

British Motor Museum's new exhibition explores the future of the car

The display, which opens this July and runs into 2020, will look at the latest car technology allowing visitors to design their own ‘car of the future’.

Body mapping service added to BODY WORLDS London attractions

As well as learning about the human body through Dr Gunther von Hagens’ amazing plastination process, you can now get a free body-mapping service as part of a visit to BODY WORLDS London in a new interactive area of the museum.

Once in a lifetime Leonardo da Vinci exhibition opens at Buckingham Palace

The largest display of the artist’s work, in more than 65 years, is now open to the public at The Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace.

Shepherdess Alison O'Neill exhibition to open in Yorkshire

The shepherdess Alison O’Neill will have an exhibition about her life and work on display at the Dales Countryside Museum in Yorkshire from 22nd May.

Rare self-portrait on display at Tate Britain's new William Blake exhibition

A self-portrait of William Blake will be on display for the first time in the UK as part of a new exhibition showcasing more than 300 original artworks.

Naze Tower to host bumper 2019 season as it reopens its doors

The Naze Tower in Essex has opened to the public for its 15th year, and will remain accessible for visitors until 3rd November, with a range of exhibitions, events and activities lined up.

Follow in the footsteps of…Queen Victoria

With 2019 marking the 200th anniversary Queen Victoria’s birth, here are some of the places you can go to learn more about the second-longest reigning monarch, this year and next.

Coldharbour Mill launches new group travel offer

Coldharbour Mill Museum in Devon has revealed details of its latest group package, encouraging more people to visit the working Victorian factory and museum.

The Queen unveils upcoming secret service exhibition at Science Museum

Her Majesty The Queen has revealed London Science Museum’s newest exhibition which celebrates the 100th anniversary of Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ), the UK’s Intelligence, Security and Cyber agency.

Tate Modern takes the top spot for UK visitors

The Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA) has revealed its latest 2018 visitor numbers with the Tate Modern taking the top spot as the most popular choice.

York Castle Museum's latest display explores broken relationships

The exhibition, known around the world as one of the most innovative and daring, will feature a variety of quirky items and stories.

RAF Museum launches new Dambusters VR experience

The Royal Air Force Museum in London has unveiled its latest experience - a virtual reality attraction transporting visitors to a pivotal moment in history.

Biggest ever Tutankhamun exhibition is coming to London

A exhibition focusing on the young pharoah Tutankhamun and his tomb artefacts will go on display in London later this year.

The future of driving explored in new Science Museum exhibition

The Science Museum in London will be opening a new exhibition this June which focuses on the future of driving technology.

Glorious gowns at the V&A

Jeannine Williamson went to the new Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams exhibition, now on at London’s V&A.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition to return to Beverley Art Gallery

The Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, developed and produced by the Natural History Museum, will return to the Beverley Art Gallery this summer.

Abbot Hall Art Gallery to host major show on Turner and Ruskin

Lakeland Arts has revealed that it will be exhibiting more than 450 years of art history as part of its 2019 programme of exhibitions, which will include a huge summer show on artists Ruskin and Turner.

Shakespeare's Globe and The View from The Shard: In the eye of the beholder

Laura Sexton reports back from an exciting Reader Club Trip to Shakespeare’s Globe and The View from the Shard.

Windermere Jetty Museum to open in spring

The Lake District’s new Windermere Jetty Museum of Boats, Steam and Stories will open its doors on 23rd March this year.

Cool and quirky museums to visit with your group

A study carried out by Art Fund has found that 63% of UK adults visit a museum or gallery to destress, but with so many to pick from in the UK we’ve rounded up some of the more unusual ones.

National Portrait Gallery to stage exhibition on the women of Pre-Raphaelite art

This autumn the National Portrait Gallery in London will host a new exhibition focused on the untold story of the women of Pre-Raphaelite art.

Biggin Hill Memorial Museum to open its doors for the first time

The new museum is set to open to the public for the first time on the 2nd February 2019.

Jane Austen’s House Museum to celebrate 70th anniversary

Jane Austen’s House Museum is gearing up to celebrate its 70th anniversary with a programme of displays and events this year.

Russell-Cotes Museum receives major funding for reinterpretation project

The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum in Bournemouth has received funding to improve three rooms in the historic house.

Tim Peake’s spacesuit to go on display in Leicester

Following its UK tour, Tim Peake’s spacesuit will go on display at the National Space Centre in Leicester this summer.

British Museum announces 2019 exhibition calendar

The British Museum in London has released details on its forthcoming exhibitions for 2019.

New exhibitions arrive at National Army Museum

Two new exhibitions focusing on equine artist Sir Alfred Munnings and the British hussars have opened at the National Army Museum.

New exhibition and lots of events at British Motor Museum in 2019

The British Motor Museum, in Warwickshire, has announced a schedule of more than 16 motoring shows for 2019, as well as a new exhibition.

The exhibitions your group won’t want to miss

From exploring the body, to the arts, here are some of the exhibitions your group can enjoy during 2019.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang exhibition arrives at Beaulieu

The exhibition celebrates the 50th anniversary of the much-loved musical film and features cars, costumes and original film concept art.

Major new gallery to open in Milton Keynes

The new MK Gallery in Milton Keynes will open on 16th March 2019 and will feature five galleries showcasing the town’s development.

New and rarely seen works of art arrive at Somerset House

The first major solo art exhibition featuring work from internationally renowned South African artist Athi-Patra Ruga will run until January 2019 at the London venue.

7 places to visit and commemorate the Great War

We look at the museums, exhibitions and attractions with links to the First World War you can visit with your group.

The National Stud receives Coach Friendly Status

The National Stud in Newmarket has been awarded with Coach Friendly Status by the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK.

Touring Roald Dahl exhibition opens in York

A touring exhibition from House of Illustration, curated by Quentin Blake, has now opened at York Art Gallery featuring imagery from The BFG.

Galleries at St Fagans museum look at generations of human life

St Fagans National Museum of History in Wales has undergone a £30 million restoration.

Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum announces new autumn exhibition

The new exhibition, opening at the Bournemouth based museum on 2nd November will feature photographs of China in the 1860/70s.

New BODY WORLDS museum brings death to life

GLT attended the opening of the incredible new museum experience in London, BODY WORLDS.

London’s newest museum experience about the human body

The new flagship exhibition, BODY WORLDS will provide an interactive and fun insight into the human body.

Game of Thrones’ Northern Ireland locations to open to public

Fans of the HBO show will soon be able to explore the iconic filming locations as they open to the public.

New women’s art exhibition to be held at Mining Art Gallery

The display, at the Mining Art Gallery in Bishop Auckland, will present artwork depicting women from the 19th century mining communities.

Further details of 2019 Yorkshire Sculpture International announced

Additional information on first Yorkshire Sculpture International event has been released.

Group visits to Woburn Abbey & Gardens’ Garden Show

The Garden Show at Woburn Abbey & Gardens in Bedfordshire will welcome more groups when it returns next June.

Relive the Royal Wedding in public display at Royal Collection attractions

The wedding outfits worn by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will be on display..

Festive afternoon teas for groups at Raby Castle

Christmas celebrations at County Durham’s Raby Castle will include afternoon teas, real reindeer and a festive market.

Haunting Crimea images by ‘father’ of war photography on display at Buckingham Palace

A new exhibition of pictures by the man dubbed the ‘father or war photography’ will go on display at Buckingham Palace.

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.

Most visited attractions revealed amid historic properties boom

England’s ‘world class’ historic properties are enjoying a purple patch as enthusiasts flock to them in their droves.

Free tours at Hever Castle & Gardens

A dazzling display of daffodils is just one of the horticultural treats on offer at Historic Hever Castle & Gardens in Kent next year.

More illuminations for Dunham Massey festive light trail

Christmas at Dunham Massey will return to the historic National Trust property in Cheshire from 30th November until 30th December, featuring more illuminations and festive displays.

Horrors of Spanish Flu on display at Florence Nightingale Museum

The horrors of the Spanish Flu 100 years ago is brought to life in an exhibition at the Florence Nightingale Museum.

Emmerdale Studio Experience introduces new feature to tour

The Emmerdale Studio Experience in Leeds has opened a brand-new set; an exact replica of the soap’s Café Main Street.

Remaking Beamish project opens first new attraction

The ‘Remaking Beamish’ project has seen the opening of its first attraction as Joe the Quilter’s cottage is added to the reasons to visit at Beamish, The Living Museum of the North in County Durham.

Blenheim to host Cinderella-themed experience this Christmas

This Christmas, Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire will be transformed, both inside and out, to showcase what is expected to be its biggest Christmas yet, with a new indoor experience.

New Museum of London display celebrates 500-year history of Christ’s Hospital

A new exhibition celebrating the impact of London’s first orphanage and school over the past 500 years has opened.

Undress the Tudors and Stuarts at Royal Museums Greenwich

Groups visiting the Queen’s House at Royal Museums Greenwich will soon be able to get a unique insight into the clothes worn by the Tudors and Stuarts with a new costume demonstration.

V&A announces UK’s largest Dior exhibition

A new exhibition for the Victoria & Albert Museum in London will open in February 2019, showcasing the life and works of Christian Dior.

New World Gallery now open at Horniman Museum

Over 3,000 objects from around the world have gone on display as the Horniman Museum’s World Gallery is now open.

New wildlife centre set to open in Wales

The plans for a new wildlife centre in Wales have been accepted in Montgomeryshire, with the hopes of attracting up to 60,000 visitors a year.

Bowes Museum to host summer exhibition on fashion photography

The countdown is on to the Bowes Museum’s catwalking summer exhibition which opens on 7th July.

Bletchley Park to open new D-Day visitor experience in 2019

Buckinghamshire-based Bletchley Park has announced it will open a major new exhibition featuring film and displays in spring 2019 to mark the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings.

New visitor centre to explore Kent’s mining heritage

The Kent Mining Heritage Foundation has received funding towards the development and support of the Betteshanger Project, which aims to expand the heritage offering in the area.

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.

Light and sound displays announced for Christmas at Kew

Kew Gardens, in London, will be transformed by a host of newly commissioned artworks of light and sound this festive season.

RHS to present Floral Fantasia alongside plant experts

The Royal Horticultural Society has teamed up with seed and plant experts Thompson & Morgan to create an inspirational garden experience for visitors this summer.

Improved access at Manchester Museum with new gallery spaces

Manchester Museum has received a confirmed grant for a major project which will see new spaces created for exhibitions.

The Bishop’s Palace reveals new sculpture trail

The Bishop’s Palace in Wells will be hosting a new sculpture trail from this September within its gardens and Medieval buildings.

Science Museum to host major exhibition about the sun

London’s Science Museum will host The Sun: Living With Our Star, an exhibition exploring the earth’s relationship with the sun.

Exhibitions, libraries and retail at new Japan House London

An Art Deco building on Kensington High Street will become Japan House London: a visitor experience and creative crossroads for Japan and the UK.

New Coronation Street packages as attraction opens to public

Groups can enjoy an exclusive look behind the scenes of British soap opera, Coronation Street, with some new tour packages.

National Marine Aquarium celebrates 20 years with events programme

The National Marine Aquarium (NMA) in Plymouth will be celebrating its 20th birthday this year with a programme of events to commemorate its work and inspire new audiences about oceans and their importance for a healthy planet.

Dine with Dippy packages available alongside tour

The Natural History Museum’s famous diplodocus skeleton is currently on a tour of the UK and is heading to Birmingham where groups can arrange dining packages at the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery.

Pigeon displays and sound installations at festival in Greenwich

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival (GDIF), London’s festival of outdoor theatre and performing arts, will run from 21st June to 7th July in locations across Royal Greenwich, Royal Docks and Tower Hamlets.

London Nights exhibition to reveal hidden side of the capital

There are only a few days to go until a new major photography exhibition opens at the Museum of London.

Sculptures, artworks and zoetrope go on display at Castle Howard

Castle Howard, in Yorkshire, has just opened a new Mat Collishaw art exhibition.

Museum of Memories to open at Weston-super-Mare pier

Due to open on 26th May at the Grand Pier, the new museum experience will take visitors down memory lane through nostalgic artefacts.

GLT’s top picks: 5 museums groups will love

To celebrate Museums Week (23rd to 29th April), we take a look at a selection of great and quirky museums in Britain that groups will love.

World Rugby Museum to host RAF centenary exhibition

This year’s Royal Air Force centenary is to be marked by the opening of a new exhibition at the World Rugby Museum at Twickenham Stadium.

Iron Bridge walkway provides unique view of preservation project

English Heritage has opened a temporary walkway beside the Iron Bridge, which is currently being restored.

British Library to celebrate James Cook anniversary

James Cook: The Voyages, running at the British Library, will tell the story of Cook’s three great voyages.

Frida Kahlo exhibition to open at V&A

This summer, the V&A will explore how Frida Kahlo, one of the most recognised artists of the 20th century, fashioned her identity.

New Dragon Slayer shows at Warwick Castle

Groups can discover England’s greatest forgotten legend in a new night-time spectacular at the iconic Warwick Castle this August.

Bishop Auckland welcomes ‘Bevin Boys’ art exhibition

The Mining Art Gallery in Bishop Auckland has opened a new temporary exhibition dedicated to the World War Two ‘Bevin Boys’.

Walker Art Gallery reveals 2018/19 exhibition programme

The Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool has announced its upcoming exhibition programme for the next 12 months including Mackintosh works and drawings by Leonardo da Vinci.

Being Brunel museum opens to the public

Bristol has welcomed the opening of Being Brunel, a new museum dedicated to the life and legacy of one of engineering’s greatest minds – Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

Five great attractions to visit in Frankfurt

We look at a selection of tourist attractions that groups shouldn’t miss on a visit to Frankfurt in Germany, from the culinary to the cultural.

Women and Confectionery exhibition now open at York's Chocolate Story

A new exhibition will focus on the roles that women have played in the confectionery industry.

Celebrating St Patrick’s Day with five ways to explore Ireland’s Ancient East

We look at five great ways to enjoy St Patrick’s Day this year or next.

St Fagans National Museum of History celebrates 70 years

This year is significant for the Welsh heritage attraction, with plenty of events and activities for visitors in the coming months.

Coalbrookdale Gallery to open art school exhibition

The gallery, part of the Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron and Ironbridge Gorge Museums in Shropshire, will be open Schooling Good Taste later this month.

World’s first virtual photography display opens in Bradford

Two complementary exhibitions have opened at the National Science and Media Museum, one of which is a virtual reality experience.

Herstmonceux Castle to host 26th Medieval festival

The castle in Sussex will host the England’s Medieval Festival this August and will display reproduced Medieval sights, sounds and spectacles.

Adventures inspired by great authors

To celebrate World Book Day today, here is a round-up of locations linked to inspiring authors for a truly great literature-linked trip.

Great Exhibition of the North to include entertainment trails

The 80-day exhibition, which takes place between 22nd June and 9th September across NewcastleGateshead will celebrate art, culture, design and innovation.

Visit Dartmoor launches themed group itineraries

The official tourism organisation for Dartmoor National Park, Visit Dartmoor, has launched a range of itineraries aimed at group travel.

The Story Museum to open Alice in Wonderland exhibition

The Story Museum in Oxford has announced it will be opening It’s Always Tea Time, an exhibition of artworks from across the globe, depicting one of the most famous tea parties of all time.

New features for RHS Flower Show Tatton Park’s 20th year

Taking place this July, the flower show will feature floral gardens, speciality talks and plenty of inspiration for horticultural groups, plus a new poisonous garden display.

Five travel ideas linked to famous love stories

To celebrate Valentine’s Day, we round-up a selection of destinations with ties to famous love stories, which are also great for group visitors.

Blenheim to host festive shopping experience this Christmas

The Oxfordshire UNESCO World Heritage Site of Blenheim Palace has added an all-new themed shopping experience to its Christmas programme this year.

Groups invited to celebrate royalty in open-top bus tour

The Original Tour has launched open-top bus experiences in Windsor suitable for groups, to mark the royal milestones taking place this year.

UK-wide exhibition programme announced for da Vinci drawings

Next year will mark the 500th anniversary of the death of Leonardo da Vinci, and to celebrate his work, nearly 150 of the Renaissance master’s drawings will go on display in 12 exhibitions across the UK.

Winchester Cathedral set for major transformation

Winchester Cathedral has announced a number of developments for the year ahead, set to restore and transform the historic building.

Exhibition celebrates life of Coronation Street creator

A free exhibition looking at the early life of Tony Warren, creator of Coronation Street, is now running at Salford Museum and Art Gallery.

Five places with links to the life of Charles Dickens

Today marks the birthday of author Charles Dickens. To celebrate, here are five places you and your group can visit year round to learn all about the famous writer.

Eagerly awaited exhibitions that are soon to open

Exhibitions we’re looking forward to this year, ranging in topic from paintings of iconic people to photography of the British seaside.

Terracotta Warriors exhibition is “once in a lifetime” opportunity

The wait is almost over as Liverpool prepares for the Terracotta Warriors landmark exhibition to open its doors to the public.

Animatronic predators to go on display at Longleat

Longleat in Wiltshire will host a summer long display of animatronic predators, including sharks, crocodiles and bears.

Anne Boleyn shows among new events at Historic Royal Palaces

Historic Royal Palaces has revealed its spring line-up of events, which is set to include historic cookery, Easter egg hunting, pub quizzes, and live performances about the imprisonment of Anne Boleyn.

New superhero displays for Madame Tussauds Blackpool

Madame Tussauds Blackpool has announced the upcoming launch of its new Marvel Super Heroes area which will feature four superhero-themed zones.

Woodland library and VR experiences confirmed for Timber Festival

The festival has started to reveal its programme of artists, performers and areas ahead of its opening in July.

Man City FC stadium reports rise in group interest since revamp

Manchester City Football Club has launched a series of new experiences as part of its revamped Stadium & Club tour and in response has reported a 20% increase in group visits.

Scone Palace to host first UK Medieval combat championship

Visitors to Scone Palace in Perth, Scotland, this May will be able to attend the first full-contact Medieval combat championships in the UK, a sport rising in popularity around the globe.

Features to be added to two Merlin attractions

Merlin Entertainments has revealed details of two new features to launch at Sea Life Manchester and Legoland Discovery Centre Manchester, this year.

Top attractions to inspire birdwatching for groups

With the Big Garden Birdwatch, run by the RSPB, taking place this weekend, we look at attractions to get your group interested in birdwatching.

Sir David Attenborough to open dinosaur exhibition in York

The York Museum’s Trust has announced that Sir David Attenborough will be opening its new exhibition, Jurassic World.

British Museum could host Bayeux Tapestry

The historic Bayeux Tapestry looks set to be loaned to the UK in what will be the first time in 950 years it has left its home in France.

New fleet of buses launches at Stonehenge

A new fleet of ‘cleaner, greener’ buses has launched at Stonehenge in Wiltshire, offering groups a more accessible mode of transport around the English Heritage site.

British Museum to host collection of Rodin sculptures

An exhibition titled Rodin and the Art of Ancient Greece will run this year, featuring sculptures by Auguste Rodin.

Damien Hirst exhibition to be displayed at Houghton Hall

A series of new paintings by Damien Hirst, entitled Colour Space, will be installed in the State Rooms at Houghton Hall, in Norfolk this March.

Successful Field of Light Uluru Shines on Into 2020

Internationally acclaimed artist Bruce Munro's immersive installation, Field of Light Uluru, in Australia, has been extended for a further period and will now remain in place until 31st December 2020.

Katarina Line offers culinary and nature-themed trips

Highlights of the Land Tours will be culinary and nature-based activities and will involve visits to the Dalmatian Coast, Venice, Zagreb and Slovenia.

7 Things to look out for in 2018

With the promises of yet another great year in terms of group travel, Visit England picks out seven things to be excited for in 2018.

Wartime hut to open at Bletchley Park

A newly restored wartime hut will be open to the public for the first time as part of a packed calendar of exhibitions.

York Museums Trust announces 2018 events and exhibitions

Included in the programme next year will be a dinosaur exhibition, a collection of Vivienne Westwood shoes and a gallery of illustrations.

Blackpool named City of Circus 2018

Blackpool has been named as one of the UK’s six Cities of Circus and, to celebrate, it will be featuring a year-round programme of events next year.

Arundel Castle: lots for groups in 2018

Arundel Castle in West Sussex has announced a full calendar of events in time for its reopening on 30th March 2018.

New feature at the Tower of London expected for summer

A new Imprisonment at the Tower exhibition is due to open in the summer of 2018 at the Tower of London and will explore the history of the prison.

Burma veterans exhibition open at National Memorial Arboretum

A new photographic exhibition, Burma Veterans: Unforgettable, is open at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.

Museum of London reveals details of London Nights exhibition

London Nights is a major exhibition planned for the Museum of London next year which will unveil the capital at night through means of photography.

V&A to welcome Winnie-the-Pooh exhibition

From 9th December, the V&A in London will host new exhibition, Winnie-the-Pooh: Exploring a Classic.

Just Go! launches UK-wide trips to see Terracotta Army in Liverpool in 2018

Group tour operator, Just Go!, is launching UK-wide departures to see the Terracotta Army exhibition in Liverpool next year.

Victorian inspired exhibition to be held at Blenheim Palace

A new exhibition showcasing what is described as some of the finest examples of Victorian art will go on display at Blenheim Palace.

Further designs revealed for the Bolton Museum’s Egyptology gallery

As work on the new Egyptology gallery at Manchester’s Bolton Museum progresses, new designs for the £3.8 million project have been released.

Groups Direct reveals 2018 dates for Matinee Shows

Group experience company, Groups Direct, has launched its latest brochure full of group benefits, including details of its popular Matinee Shows running in 2018.

Royal Collection Trust reveals new exhibitions and art displays

The Royal Collection Trust has announced its programme of exhibitions, displays and group visits at the official royal residences and The Queen’s Galleries for this winter and going into 2018.

New festival celebrating forests to launch next year

A brand new festival called Timber will debut in the National Forest next July, and will explore the impact of forests.

Science Museum’s new exhibit celebrates space travel

The Science Museum is marking 60 years to the day since British scientists launched the Skylark rocket programme.

Twickenham Stadium to open new rugby museum

The World Rugby Museum, at Twickenham Stadium in London, is set to re-open in February 2018 in a new location within the stadium as a new attraction.

Group tickets announced for Terracotta Warriors exhibition

Discounted group tickets for the China's First Emperor and the Terracotta Warriors exhibition in Liverpool will soon go on sale.

My Name is Prince exhibition now open

The official exhibition about the late superstar and performer Prince has opened at The O2 in London.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens to host new Christmas trail

A new festive trail at The Birmingham Botanical Gardens will be transforming the gardens into an illuminated wonderland this winter.

Work begins on Beamish expansion project

Beamish, The Living Museum of the North has begun work on a big expansion, reportedly the largest in its history.

Brightwater Holidays expands programme for 2018

Holiday company, Brightwater Holidays has announced that it will be offering more for hobbyists in 2018 with a new range or trips including garden tours and historic houses.

Hodsock Priory adds woodland theatre to snowdrop attraction

Hodsock Priory has announced that it will welcome a woodland theatre to its snowdrops attraction in February 2018.

7 openings planned for 2018 that GTOs should have on their radar

We round up a selection of new attractions, hotels and exhibitions planned for 2018.

National Portrait Gallery announces Michael Jackson exhibition

The National Portrait Gallery in London has revealed a new exhibition, Michael Jackson: On The Wall, set to open next summer.

Nomadic warrior exhibition rides into British Museum

Scythians, Warriors of Ancient Siberia, is a new exhibition recently opened at the British Museum in London.

New trail: Discover York’s chocolate heritage

The city of York is inviting groups to explore its rather delicious history following the launch of a dedicated chocolate trail.

8 beautiful places in Scotland

In light of Scotland recently being voted the most beautiful country in the world by a Rough Guides survey, we select some of the most scenic and interesting locations of the North.

Behind-the-scenes tours to return to Burghley

Burghley House, a 16th century country house in Lincolnshire, will welcome the return of behind-the-scenes torchlit tours this October to unearth hidden history secrets.

Winter at Waddesdon: animal-themed light displays confirmed

Waddesdon Manor in Aylesbury has revealed details of its festivities for this winter, which include an animal-themed light display.

Hever Castle unveils festive season events

Hever Castle has revealed details for this year’s Christmas celebrations, including illuminated gardens, vintage fairground stalls and the history behind Christmas carols.

Warner Bros Studios to host Halloween event

This Halloween, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London will be hosting a Halloween event allowing visitors to explore the secrets behind the Harry Potter stories and films.

Festive events to take place in Shakespeare’s England

Visitors to Shakespeare’s England this winter season will get to enjoy a range of seasonal activities.

Northern Lights themed event planned at Dynamic Earth

Edinburgh’s five-star attraction Dynamic Earth will be bringing the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, to life.

Science Museum to celebrate culture of India

The Science Museum, located in London, will be hosting a season of exhibitions and events which focus on India and its culture later this year.

Ocean liners to be featured in V&A exhibition

The Victorian and Albert Museum (V&A) has co-organised with the Peabody Essex Museum the first ever exhibition exploring the ocean liner.

The British Magic Museum opens in Norfolk

A new museum is now open in Norfolk which looks at the history and art of magic and the illusion of performing tricks on stage.

Ghostly Gaslight Halloween event set to scare at Blists Hill

Groups who enjoy an immersive spooky experience can take advantage of a Halloween event at Blists Hill Victorian Town.

A Q&A with Sally Goodsir, Royal Gifts exhibition curator

Sally Goodsir, Assistant Curator of Decorative Arts at the Royal Collection Trust, talks to GLT's Keeley Rodgers.

Inflatable art on display at Borders Sculpture Park

An inflatable outdoor sculpture installation has officially opened at Borders Sculpture Park, a new venue for open-air sculpture in Scotland.

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.

Hampton Court Palace reveals details of historical winter season

Hampton Court in London has unveiled its winter season which combines, food, music and history themed festivities.

Exploring the Osborne estate this summer and further

We take a closer look at Osborne on the Isle of Wight, focusing on its link with the film, Victoria & Abdul.

Tate Modern to open Picasso exhibition in spring 2018

A new exhibition will be launched at London's Tate Modern next spring which will focus on a pivotal year in the artist Picasso's life.

Eden Project opens new summer space exhibition

Cornwall’s Eden Project has launched a brand new space themed exhibition which will allow visitors to explore the solar system.

Funding secured for new Yorkshire Sculpture arts project

The art galleries that form the Yorkshire Sculpture Triangle have secured funding for a new project called the Yorkshire Sculpture International.

UK City of Culture: Visit the places bidding for the title

We take a look at the shortlist for the 2021 UK City of Culture to see what each has to offer.

British Ceramics Biennial returns to Stoke-on-Trent

More than 100 artists will be taking part in the fifth edition of the British Ceramics Biennial (BCB) this September.

Scotland’s Yuletide Past Returns to The Real Mary King’s Close

Visitors to Edinburgh can uncover a darker side to Christmas with Scotland’s Yuletide Past tours at The Real Mary King’s Close.

Countdown on to The Great Exhibition of the North

The 2018 event will celebrate all things Newcastle, Gateshead and further afield.

Kensington Palace opens princess themed exhibition

A new exhibition called Enlightened Princesses is now open at Kensington Palace in London.

Tickets go on sale for Colours of Cluny

Organisers of light display, Colours of Cluny, have announced that tickets for the public will go on sale from Friday 23rd June.

Tower of London to host BBC Good Food Festival

Feast, a new BBC Good Food Festival, run by River Street Events will be held in the moat at the Tower of London from 22nd to 24th September.

Museum exhibition celebrates Agatha Christie’s life

National Museum Cardiff is to illustrate the life behind the works of Agatha Christie.

Festive group lunch packages at Blists Hill Victorian Town

Ironbridge Gorge Museums, in Shropshire, celebrates its 50th anniversary and will be introducing two new festive packages for groups.

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.

NEC gears up for launch of Dinosaurs in the Wild

Birmingham’s NEC is getting ready for the opening of its latest live action show Dinosaurs in the Wild.

Eight good reasons to visit Bath before year’s end

Georgian architecture, museums, Roman history, natural thermal spas and boutique shops: there’s something for everyone in Bath.

London’s new Postal Museum to open in July

This July will see the opening of the new Postal Museum, which will showcase the history of Britain’s mail system.

Experience space at The Eden Project this summer

The Eden Project in Cornwall will allow visitors to explore the wonders of space between 27th July and 3rd September.

Manchester sightseeing bus tour launched

Visitors to Manchester can now take daily, year-round, hop on - hop off city bus tours.

Hampton Court Palace to celebrate the Tudors

Visitors to Hampton Court Palace during the summer months will encounter what life was like during the Tudor reign.

Details for Kew Science Festival 2017 announced

This year’s Kew Science Festival will take place between 4th and 6th August.

King Arthur's Britain: the legends behind the locations

Group Leisure has picked out some of the most fascinating UK locations linked to the legend of the King Arthur.

Chocolate exhibition opens at York Castle Museum

An exhibition has recently opened at York Castle Museum that looks into the history of chocolate and sweets.

Six perfectly English places for groups to visit

With St George’s Day having just passed, we’ve come up with six trip ideas to extend the celebrations for this patron saint day.

History and religion tours new for Guildford Cathedral

After a major refurbishment, Guildford Cathedral in Surrey will now be offering new guided tours for groups.

New Viking exhibition set to tour UK museums

A major new exhibition that focuses on Vikings will be opening this May at a number of museums across the UK.

New coach park: phase one of Stonehenge improvements completed

A newly-designed permanent coach park is now open at Stonehenge, Wiltshire.

East Baths at the Roman Baths to reopen with new displays

The East Baths in Bath are set to reopen this April following a renovation, and will feature new displays.

Full line-up for Kew the Music 2017 revealed

The musical line-up for this year’s Kew the Music, taking place at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, includes Passenger and Razorlight.

Jacobean museum in Hereford reopens

Hereford’s Black and White House Museum has reopened to the public this month following a refurbishment.

Leporiphobia: London Tombs’ scary Easter experience

An immersive scary Easter experience called Leporiphobia will be showing at The London Bridge Experience & Tombs.

illuminating York festival to go biennial

York’s annual four day festival, illuminating York, is set to go biennial from next year.

Shakespearean medicine exhibition opens at Hall’s Croft

A new exhibition has opened at Hall’s Croft that explores Shakespearean medicine.

Durham Cathedral to display Treasures of St Cuthbert

Durham Cathedral has announced the launch of a permanent Treasures of St Cuthbert display this summer.

National Media Museum announces name change

The National Media Museum will become the National Science and Media Museum when it undergoes a name change on 23rd March.

Sea Life Brighton to open new crustacean exhibition

A new exhibition called Claws will open on 1st April at Sea Life Brighton.

DC superhero exhibition now open on South Bank

A new DC superhero exhibition opened in London this month, and group rates are available when booking with Groups Direct.

Museum of Iron to re-open this Easter

The Museum of Iron in Coalbrookdale, Shropshire is set to re-open this Easter, to mark the 50th anniversary of Iron Gorge Museums.

Blists Hill Festive Weekends; group rates available

Blists Hill Victorian Town, near Ironbridge, Shropshire, has revealed details of the group rates available for this year’s Festive Weekends.

National Heritage Centre for Horseracing and Sporting Art: a review

Laura Sexton spent a day in Newmarket, discovering the history of horseracing.

Free admission for groups at Stockwood Discovery Centre

Stockwood Discovery Centre in Luton has launched a new group package for parties of 12 or more people.

Brighton Museum to welcome new Royal Pavilion display

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery will showcase rarely seen views of the Royal Pavilion estate in a new display running from 14th March to 13th September.

New 60s themed bus tours with Music Heritage London

Music Heritage London has launched a new bus tour, suitable for groups, which is 60s music themed.

Shepherd Neame introduces brewery tour and theatre show package

Shepherd Neame Visitor Centre in Faversham in Kent has this year introduced a new package combining a tour of its Faversham Brewery with an old time music hall show in the nearby Criterion Blue Town.

Brickworks Museum opens to coach parties

The Brickworks Museum, in Bursledon in Hampshire, has been opened to coach parties for the first time.

The National Army Museum to re-open in March

Following a three-year redevelopment project, it has been announced that the National Army Museum in London will reopen on 30th March.

Groups Direct introduces brand new tour of Highgate Cemetery

Group experience company, Groups Direct, has just announced the launch of its brand new tour, The Mourning Tour.

Museum of London to move to new Smithfield location

The Museum of London is set to move to a new location in West Smithfield, with a proposed opening date of 2022.

New portrait exhibition at Ightham Mote

A new exhibition centring on the famous Young Lady in White portrait will open on 4th March at Ightham Mote.

Opening date change for new British Music Experience

The British Music Experience (BME) has announced that it will now open on the delayed date of 9th March.

Bolton Museum; new Egyptology gallery scheduled to open in 2018

Bolton Museum has announced that its new Egyptology gallery should be open to the public in 2018.

5 group visits inspired by 125 years of Sherlock Holmes

Celebrate the 125th anniversary of one of the world’s most famous detectives with our round-up of Sherlock-linked sites.

Details of Arundel Castle’s 2017 calendar released

This year, Arundel Castle, in West Sussex, will celebrate the 950th anniversary with a year’s worth of events.

Watts 200; bicentenary celebrations planned at Watts Gallery

The Watts Gallery Artists’ Village is heading into its bicentenary year in 2017, and will mark the milestone with Watts 200.

Reopening date confirmed for French War & Peace Museum

The War & Peace Museum in the French Ardennes will reopen its doors to the public in September 2017.

Spring opening for Kent Mining Museum

A new museum, which will share and celebrate the history of mining in Kent, will open in late spring 2017.

New mathematics gallery opens at Science Museum

A new mathematics gallery designed by Zaha Hadid Architects has opened at the Science Museum in London.

January group discounts available at Museum of Brands

The Museum of Brands in Notting Hill in London is offering a 20 per cent discount on introductory talks for groups visiting in January.

Ashmolean releases 2017 exhibition details

The Ashmolean Museum, located in the University of Oxford, has revealed its programme of exhibitions for 2017.

New boating heritage museum to open in Cumbria

Windermere Jetty: Museum of Boats, Steam and Stories is an attraction due to open in Cumbria in 2017.

JORVIK Viking Centre to reopen in April

The JORVIK Viking Centre in York is set to reopen on 8th April 2017 after being redeveloped.

Florimania: Ladies with Flowers theme planned for 2017

Hampton Court Palace’s Florimania will be inspired by the concept of Ladies with Flowers next year.

Chatsworth announces new fashion exhibition for 2017

Next spring, Chatsworth will present what is said to be its largest exhibition to date.

Wollaton Hall to welcome dinosaur exhibition

Wollaton Hall in Nottinghamshire will host what’s been described as a ‘world-exclusive’ exhibition next year, called Dinosaurs of China.

Kew Orchid Festival reveals Indian theme for 2017

Next year's Orchid Festival at Kew Gardens will be inspired by the colours and culture of India.

New visitor centre at Clifford’s Tower planned

Plans for a new visitor centre at Clifford’s Tower in York have been given approval by York City Council.

Russell-Cotes to open new rare art exhibition

The Russell-Cotes’ Museum and Gallery will be opening a new exhibition that will feature rare 20th century art.

New fossil museum now open in Kimmeridge

A new museum has opened in Kimmeridge, Dorset, showcasing a collection of fossils up to 150 million years old.

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