From inspiration for your next day out and a much-needed weekend escape to handy ways to help you get there, here are some not-to-be-missed ideas to help you make the most of your free time this spring.
Embark on a journey through 1,400 years of history
With an exciting array of new visitor activities, events and a Kids go Free offer, now is the perfect time to explore Canterbury Cathedral.
Whether seeking out stone dragons and gargoyles, admiring the medieval stained-glass windows — including the oldest examples in Britain — marvelling at carved tombs or exploring the Cathedral’s stunning Cloisters and green spaces, there’s lots to enjoy at this beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You can even get close to the unique artefacts in the Cathedral’s Crypt exhibition, including the armour of the fearsome medieval warrior, the Black Prince.
Take advantage of the Kids go Free offer (offer ends 30 September 2024). Automatically applied at checkout. T&Cs apply.
Explore a city on your own terms
Whether you love exploring a city on your own or with a guide, Around is the perfect solution. Flexible, budget-friendly, and curated by local experts, Around audio tours offer you a personalised and enriching sightseeing experience, on your own terms.
Enjoy historical and cultural insights where you want, when you want. Prices vary depending on your needs, beginning at £8.99. With over 100 cities already available and more added monthly, your dream tour is only a few taps away. Ready to discover your destination?
Get a 20% discount on your first purchase with code EXPLORE20 (offer ends 31 May 2024).
Experience an unforgettable staycation in Durham
Looking for a worthwhile getaway in the UK this spring? Durham should be next on your list. Travel back in time at Beamish Museum to experience the sights, sounds and tastes of times gone by, experience a 1950s cinema or live out your Jane Austen fantasy at the Georgian-themed self-catering accommodation opening later this year.
Discover Raby Castle – one of England’s most impressive intact medieval castles – with a powerful exterior, superb collections and unique history, surrounded by acres of picturesque parklands where wild red and fallow deer roam. With the addition of the New Hall in May, See the largest collection of historic rail vehicles, under cover and on display in Europe at Locomotion.
Auckland Castle, once home to some of the most powerful men in England, sits at the heart of The Auckland Project’s unique collection of attractions, including the Faith Museum, Spanish Gallery and Mining Art Gallery. And the attractions don’t stop there – explore the iconic Durham Cathedral, discover inspiring collections at The Bowes Museum and stroll through the glorious grounds at Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens.
From historic homes and incredible museums to enchanting gardens and walks, Durham is a remarkable UK gem you don’t want to miss out on.
Discover the ultimate weekend escape
Whether you’re attending an event, on a family retreat or are simply craving a well-deserved break, Village Hotels have a package for every holiday. With 33 picturesque locations across the UK, each location is perfectly placed next to a host of exciting local attractions and activities.
Stay in stylish guest rooms equipped with plush beds, large TVs and invigorating power showers. Savour the best of British cuisine while you watch live sport screenings at the pub and grill or rejuvenate at the health and wellness club, which boasts a pool, steam room, sauna and cutting-edge gym.
For business travellers, the hotel’s VWorks co-working space provides delicious coffees and snacks, as well as an on-site Starbucks.
Don’t miss Village Hotels’ late-availability deals starting from just £59, with new locations updated weekly and unlock exclusive perks including free parking, wi-fi and VWorks hot desk access.
Usher in the warmer season at an elegant French-inspired hotel
If you’re looking for a sophisticated weekend away at a stylish hotel, Hotel du Vin is your next destination. Each of the 19 picturesque locations across the UK has its own unique character, shaped by the architecture, history and considered upkeep and refurbishment of the building.
At the heart of each hotel, Bistro du Vin serves classic French cuisine with a modern twist. And, thanks to the hotel group’s close relationships with vineyards and winemakers, its cosy, low-lit bars offer many of the world’s finest and best-kept secret wines — from traditional quality bordeaux and burgundy to exciting wines from the New World.
Whether seeking a romantic getaway, family vacation or solo retreat, let Hotel du Vin be your sanctuary of serenity as you celebrate the changing of the seasons.
Get 25% off overnight stays including dinner, breakfast and late checkout.
Elevate your picnic game with a luxury hotel experience
With the elegant picnics offered by DUKES London, you can enjoy a classic summertime experience in one or two of London’s eight Royal Parks. Ideal for a special family outing in the heart of the city, picnic hampers are carefully curated by the hotel’s Great British Restaurant to showcase a delectable blend of culinary delights and seasonal sweets.
Choose from vegan and vegetarian experiences to dog picnics or afternoon tea — or take your picnic to the next level with the luxurious Perrier Jouët collaboration. DUKES London supplies everything you need, with butler service available also. Simply collect your picnic and get ready to indulge in either Green Park or St James’s Park for an experience you’ll never forget.
Don’t miss the ultimate Elvis experience
Direct From Graceland: Elvis, is a kaleidoscopic retrospective of the global sensation that was Elvis Presley.
More than 450 largely unreleased artefacts chart the King’s humble beginnings to his meteoric rise to fame in this exclusive release from Graceland. For fans who can’t make it to the real Graceland, Arches London Bridge brings Graceland to you.
Book a reliable and trustworthy coach service
Panda Coaches is a private UK coach hire service offering a wide range of options for every occasion. The company’s school coaches travel swiftly through the streets on their daily runs, transporting pupils smoothly and efficiently.
Feel confident as you watch your pupils climb up the steps of the safe, tracked vehicles that are fitted with CCTV and driven by DBS-checked drivers. Treat multiple classes to trips with efficient and economical 70-seater coaches. Whether for daily school runs or day trips, travel with Panda for reliable and secure school transportation.
Solve a mystery at an unforgettable immersive experience
The Lost Estate is founded on giving the greatest stories ever told a new lease on life and is renowned for staging sell-out immersive experiences based around five-star dining, craft cocktails and world-class live performances.
They are known for staging sell-out immersive experiences, such as critically acclaimed shows The Great Christmas Feast and The Greatest Night of the Jazz Age. The Lost Estate is currently showing The Great Murder Mystery, an ingenious retelling of Sherlock Holmes’ most infamous case, The Hound of the Baskervilles.
Bringing together London’s top chefs, mixologists, actors and musicians, The Great Murder Mystery is a one-of-a-kind experience that blends unparalleled performance, exceptional fine dining and five-star service in remarkable surroundings.
This year, the hospitality offering has been elevated to new heights with roving martini trolleys, curated wine pairings to accompany each course and an in-house sommelier on hand with personalised recommendations.
Receive a complimentary glass of Piper-Heidsieck champagne on arrival using code BAKERST at (offer ends 31 July 2024).
Indulge in an authentic Italian culinary delight
Led by two generations of the Distefano family, the San Carlo group of Italian restaurants has grown into a £100m restaurant empire, boasting 24 restaurants across the UK with a further nine international locations.
This success stems from innovation combined with Italian tradition, skilled chefs and a focus on quality ingredients, service and style. San Carlo’s exclusive summer menu showcases Italian delicacies at their finest, from mouthwatering taglioni with hand-picked crab and Italian sturgeon caviar to succulent lamb cutlets with sweet and sour peppers.
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