The British Tourism & Travel Show is back at the NEC, Birmingham on 20-21 March 2024. Before then, our exhibitors have lots planned for your groups to enjoy.
Summer is barely upon us, but forward planning is a must when arranging the best tours and excursions for your groups.
Autumn and winter offer a treasure trove of attractions and events perfect for those seeking unforgettable adventures. From hair-raising heights and festive delights to Halloween scares and family-fun affairs, there’s something for everyone.
In the first part of our two-part blog series, we look at what some British Tourism & Travel Show exhibitors have in store for groups to inspire your autumn and winter trips.
1. Go up the UK’s only mountain gondola
Thrill-seeking groups can enjoy a ride up Aonach Mòr with Nevis Range Mountain Experience. The Nevis Range Mountain Gondola transports visitors to 650m on the mountain, where they can take in the spectacular views and fresh mountain air.
The Gondola operates all year (except Christmas Day) but is weather dependent.
Perfect for group adventure days, a gondola ride can be paired with a scenic walk or mountain biking (there are 25 miles of forest trails around Nevis Range to explore!).
2. Visit a ‘legendary’ attraction – new for 2023
The brand new Loch Ness Centre is set to reopen its doors any day now, ready for your groups to explore this autumn, winter and beyond.
Inverness’s latest attraction will give visitors 500 million years of Loch Ness history, allowing groups to delve deeper into the real places, people, stories, and scientific research that have turned Nessie into an iconic Scottish legend.
3. Get muddy at Betteshanger Park
From 30 September to 1 October, Boonies in Deal is bringing back its obstacle course race – Survival. Dubbed Kent’s “best obstacle course race”, the organisers say it will return better and muddier than ever. With no competition or timing, it offers groups an event working together to conquer the course. You can choose from 3km (1 lap), 6km (2 laps) and 9km (3 laps) distances, with up to a hundred obstacles along the way – we’re exhausted just thinking about it.
All participants receive a Finisher t-shirt and Survival medal (worth it!).
4. Enjoy a cruise along the Firth of Forth and the Three Bridges
For a more tranquil experience, Forth Boat Tours offers just the ticket. And, as November to March is their off-peak season, it’s a much quieter time for groups to visit.
Based in Queensferry, a short distance from Scotland’s bustling capital Edinburgh, it operates three distinctive cruises: The Three Bridges, Inchcolm Island and Blackness Castle.
Each cruise has its unique charm, offering a relaxing experience around Edinburgh and the chance to enjoy its many wonderful sights.
All Forth Boat Tours cruises include:
- Complimentary travel for group organisers and couriers
- Bar, refreshments and toilets
- Free coach parking at Hawes Pier and Port Edgar Marina
- Easy wheelchair access on the Forth Belle only
- Discounted rates for groups of 15+
- On-board commentary.
5. Experience the dizzying heights of the Spinnaker Tower
At 170m high, Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth offers a unique activity for groups. They’ll embark on a captivating journey through Portsmouth’s vibrant history as they delve into some of the tales of the people and places that have shaped its heritage.
Begin with the Sail of the Solent animated pre-show, where intriguing stories come to life. Then, ascend to the view decks, offering a panoramic view of the very sites where significant events unfolded.
There are also plenty of group benefits, including discounted rates, ‘fast track’ admission and a meet and greet service for pre-booked groups.
6. Experience fast-track action at Lydden Hill
For motorheads, Lord of Lydden & Sidecar Burn Up offers a weekend of motorcycle racing at Lydden Hill on 21-22 October.
“On-track solo riders and F1/F2 and Classic Sidecars compete in wheel-to-wheel action to decide this year’s Lord and Sidecar Champion,” say organisers.
“FAB Racing juniors will be on track battling it out to find the 2023 Junior Lord and the Stock & Super Scooters will participate in the championship final.”
Off-track, food outlets will be serving street food, and there will also be a marquee bar open during the day.