Keith Jordan had an excellent day with his Lincoln Retirees Group all because of who he met at the 2023 Group Leisure & Travel Show.

Members of Lincoln Retirees Group at Great Central Railway

Some of the group enjoyed a visit to Great Central Railway in Leicestershire while others headed to the King Richard III Visitor Centre. 

Having not considered Leicestershire before, GTO Keith met representatives from the tourist board and attractions at the Group Leisure & Travel Show in Milton Keynes, discovering there was plenty on offer that ticked the boxes for his group members.

Keith Jordan of Lincoln Retirees Group with wife Gillian

Keith and wife Gillian visit a variety of destinations with the group.

He said: “The trip was even better than what was described to me at the GLT Show. The majority visited Great Central Railway, while some of the others spent time at the King Richard III Visitor Centre. The day was excellent.”

Great Central Railway’s Simon Bracewell, who met Keith at the GLT Show, said: “They had a great day travelling up and down the line. The GLT Show was really friendly and there was lots of interest – I have already converted at least four visitors into group bookings and have ongoing enquiries from others – so it’s easy to see the return on the investment we made at the event.”

King Richard III Visitor Centre, Leicester

The exhibition spaces at King Richard III Visitor Centre were of great interest to members of the retirees group.

Most of the group enjoyed a one-day runabout ticket on the Great Central Railway, so they could visit all stations and the museum. Some members opted for a visit to the King Richard III Visitor Centre, where they immersed themselves in the exhibition spaces and enjoyed lunch at the White Boar Café.

“Those who visited the visitor centre also had a brilliant time and felt very welcome. It just shows that you never know what you might find by going along to the GLT Show.”

Keith Jordan, Lincoln Retirees Group

Keith continued: “Going along to the GLT Show gives you an insight into what’s on offer. You can ask questions, find out what the group rates are and find out when is best for the group to visit. It’s great just to walk around and pick up bits of information which in this case, turned into a fantastic trip.”

Two members of Lincoln Retirees Group at Great Central Railway

The group enjoyed spending time exploring the historic railway line in Leicestershire.

Sheena Dattani-Patinha, who looked after the group at the King Richard III visitor centre, said: “Keith’s group was incredibly friendly and particularly relished exploring the upstairs galleries, where the Dig Diary and wonders of the science involved unfold. Exhibiting at the GLT Show offers a personal preview of our experience.

“We are always eager to meet those who seek a unique experience, and we can craft a bespoke package tailored to their preferences.”

Keith added: “The train journey was sensational, and everyone was so friendly. The views were amazing, and I know we’ll be going back soon. Those who visited the visitor centre also had a brilliant time and felt very welcome. It just shows that you never know what you might find by going along to the GLT Show.”

The 2024 Group Leisure & Travel returns to the Marshall Arena at Stadium MK in Milton Keynes on Thursday 3rd October.

Group organisers and coach tour operators can register to visit at grouptravelshow.com/register

Those interested in exhibiting can contact Lisa Milton on 01908 623323 or via email at lisa.m@yandellmedia.com