Flying into Cork airport was extremely easy, this small airport was stress free and we were very soon on our way discovering some hotels on the outskirts of the city of Cork. All hotels offered superior accommodation with exceptional hospitality which the Irish are renowned for.

A fantastic overnight stay was at the Blarney Woollen Mill hotel, superb! We had a pleasant early evening walk across the quaint village green to the entrance of Blarney Castle, pleasant local pubs were dotted around the green with local gift shops selling local crafts. We were so impressed with this property and its location we are building a tour to base here. Keep an eye on our website for details.

We then attended the annual ‘Meitheal’ workshop which provides Irish tourism business’s the opportunity to promote themselves. This was so interesting to speak to so many different establishments, offering new destinations and ideas.

The latter part of our trip took us to see all the hotels we use in Killarney, always a fantastic base to tour the stunning scenery of the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsular to name but a few scenic drives. We visited Bantry Bay, Kenmare and Tralee visiting our hotel friends in this Southern part of Ireland. All hotels offered a very high standard of accommodation, most of the Irish hotels heavily invest in their properties on an annual basis, along with great hospitality and cuisine we could not fault our visits. It was great to create new friendships and build on our existing ones in Ireland, everyone is so friendly and we encourage everyone to visit this fantastic country.

Click here to take a look at our Irish products for more details.

There is plenty to do along the Rhine Valley, from river cruises and vineyard tours with tastings to museum visits that delve into the quirkiness of the region. Despite all the wonderful activities available, the most breathtaking moments came from exploring the beautiful landscapes. The region’s unique character, with its half-timbered houses and narrow cobbled streets, gave the illusion of stepping into a fairy tale. With a backdrop of rolling green hills, and more often than not a mighty medieval fortress perched on a hillside, the scenery created a dramatic sense of life centuries ago. The castles, hills, and rolling vineyards combined to create a truly unique experience.

One of the highlights of the trip was exploring Rüdesheim’s Niederwald Monument, which stood tall overlooking the river and the towns below. Unfortunately, the cable car that takes visitors to the top of the hill was closed, as the season had not fully started. Nevertheless, the views still made for a lovely experience, and it was easy to imagine how stunning the journey by cable car must be in the main season. Standing high at the viewpoint gave a real sense of peace.

Another wonderful experience was the Anton Hammes winery which was tucked away in a quaint and beautiful town. As they wondered into the town, Rachael and Guy were quickly surrounded by dramatic vineyards that climbed the steep hillside. They were shown around the grounds and then down into the wine cellar, both traditional and mysterious in some ways but large enough for groups who want to explore the region’s wine. Hundreds of years old, it is stripped back to the bare brick with long wooden tables stretched all the way from one wall to the next, and large wine barrels echoing its medieval atmosphere.

This region has so much to offer with cities rich in culture, peaceful winding rivers and dramatic landscapes – it simply shouldn’t be missed. While summer is special, the Rhine Valley’s towns are transformed later in the year with Christmas markets, warm fires and festive cheer turning the area into a delightful winter wonderland.

Click here to view our tours to Cologne, and the Rhine Valley

It was lovely to meet with long-term partners that have featured in the Greatdays’ brochures for many years. It was also good to visit new hotels and attractions as part of developing our programme.

Amy travelled to the island on Red Funnel Ferries and found the experience very smooth and efficient. Lasting just short of an hour, the crossing went quickly with comfortable seating and the possibility of something to eat in the café, a drink in the bar or browse in the gift shop.

Once off the ferry, Amy drove to Ryde to have a look round. There was so much activity! Whilst walking on the pier, the Pier Head Train arrived, a Wightlink ferry docked at the end of the pier and a hovercraft landed onto the sandy beach followed by squawking seagulls. There were many cafés and independent shops to browse along the streets heading to the centre of Ryde. The streets are hilly – make sure you pack your comfortable shoes.

Shanklin and Sandown were next on Amy’s itinerary. Both coastal towns are very close to one another (it is only a 15-minute jog from one to the other!) They have different selling points. Shanklin is split in two by a cliff, with an upper and lower promenade linked by a lift that has a small fee in the main season. Most hotels are up high on the cliff giving the unspoilt views over the sea. On the lower promenade, there are many shops, cafés and bars to choose from in addition to the golden sandy beach to enjoy! The old town is a stroll from the upper promenade where you will find the thatched cottages and winding narrow streets that are often pictured in Isle of Wight publications.

Sandown has a different ‘feel’ to it – Amy found it was more of a typical English seaside resort. A long promenade – that Amy ran along each morning – plenty of shops and beachside cafés for people watching. The Sandown pier stretches into the sea at one end of the town providing a focal point for visitors.

The attractions were in different locations over the island. Amy had lots of driving in between the appointments in her little car. Even though the Isle of Wight is not a big island, the roads are windy and narrow so one really feels in the depths of the countryside at times. The Wight Military and Heritage Museum was a highlight. Amy met with one of the Trustees who kindly conducted a private tour of the Military memorabilia and information on the importance of the Isle of Wight’s role during World War II. There were tanks, uniforms, military vehicles and a real plane called the historic ‘B-N Islander’ to view. The gift shop, book shop and café at the end of the tour were well worth a visit to support this charity.

Amy made a stop off to the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary for a very pleasant visit to see the rescued donkeys. At 2.30pm they all started braying in chorus. Daphne, one of the many volunteers said that the donkeys were reminding the staff they were hungry! There is a café and many opportunities to talk with the guides to find out more. Whether rain or shine, the donkeys can be seen out in the field or in their barns.

No visit to the Isle of Wight is complete without visiting the ‘big three’…The Needles, Carisbrooke Castle and Osbourne House. Luckily, the weather improved during Amy’s time at each of these attractions. The Needles in all their splendour rose out of the sea. Not all the activities were open as it was low season but in the main season, the chair lifts are a must but not for the faint hearted! They take you to Alum Bay from where you can see the coloured sand close up. The sand shop is recommended to visit and create your very own layered sand gift. Amy had lunch here that was very reasonably priced. There is a gift shop in addition to a glass workshop where they give demonstrations of glass blowing.

The second of the ‘big three’ can be seen from far away. The Keep at Carisbrooke Castle rises high above the landscape. At close quarters, the castle walls are well preserved and visitors can walk along the ramparts – it is a bit uneven though! Amy timed her visit just right as Jigsaw, one of the Carisbrooke donkeys, was raring to go and demonstrated walking on the water wheel so that is turned 3 times. Jigsaw was well aware of the contract: no more than 3 revolutions per day! A Museum, Gatehouse, the Kitchen garden, shop and café are all within the castle walls including the Keep reached only by climbing approximately 30 steps. The view was well worth it though. All the staff were really helpful and knowledgeable that made Amy feel very welcome during her visit to this significant, historic site where Queen Victoria’s daughter, Princess Beatrice made her home.

Magnificent Osbourne House, former home to Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, was glowing yellow in the sun opposite Portsmouth and Southampton across the Solent. The island is close to the main land yet one feels very far away. Amy had some time to wander through the ground floor of the house, looking at the paintings hung on the walls under the hight decorated ceilings. There was also time to walk to the beach and Swiss Cottage within the grounds of Osbourne. A shuttle buggy ran at regular intervals to take visitors to the beach café should they have difficulty walking the mile distance. The café and shop were well attended – Amy managed to buy some ‘Wight Whisky’ for her husband before leaving for the ferry in East Cowes.

Click here to view our tours to Isle of Wight

What a lovely place to visit in the sun! The daffodils were out meaning spring was officially on its way.

After a quick train ride from Manchester and a short stroll along the river Ouse, Amy visited the York Castle Museum. This museum is so much more than its name. Split into two parts, the exhibition takes you through the ages with original memorabilia from different decades. There is commentary throughout the one-way system with sounds and conversations of the times. The first part ends with Kirkgate, a Victorian Street where volunteers are dressed in period costume and give regular talks and demonstrations. The school house, pharmacy and sweet shop were some of the highlights. In the second part of the visit, it is more focused on World War II with permanent and temporary exhibitions. The staff members were knowledgeable and invited any questions from visitors. There was a gift shop and small café to provide rest to tired feet. A recommended time for a visit is 2-3 hours.

Amy then met with City Cruises, located just a short walk from the York Castle Museum through public gardens, the cruisers operate over regular intervals throughout the day. They take you on a 45-minute cruise – an ideal length of time to see York centre from the water, giving you a different perspective of the city.

The hotels in York offer very different positives. Central hotels are close to the city walls, perfect for an evening stroll after dinner, visiting the Shambles or the market during a free day. Hotels on the outskirts have proximity to York Race course and complimentary coach parking which is advantageous for any busy itinerary.

On the way back to the station to catch the next train, Amy stopped to buy some Parkin, a traditional Yorkshire ginger cake and a Yorkie bars of course for her colleagues in the Greatdays office.

Click here to view our new tour to York

Staying in an array of hotels and visiting various and unusual attractions made this a great trip and very interesting. The overall experience was extremely enjoyable driving through this part of the country sadly missed by many tourists travelling further north. The gentle scenery of the lowlands with rolling hills and scenic coastal drives gave invaluable ideas for a fantastic tour without the high mileage to the North of Scotland.

Comfortable stays were enjoyed at the Holiday Inn Dumfries,  the North West Castle hotel in Stranraer and the Riverside Lodge hotel at Irvine. Great group hotels offering friendly service with excellent accommodation.

Two main highlights of this trip were visiting a fantastic family at Dalgarven Mill, home to the museum of country life and costume with a homely coffee shop offering homemade scones which were amazing! A visit was also made to Kitchen Coos and Ewes, what an experience!

Sarah met the ‘Super moodels’, and had a very posh trailer ride into the hills to have an interactive visit with these fascinating highland cows.  This was finished off with a sheep dog trial, before a cosy sit down in the bothy for coffee, tea and homemade shortbread.

Both forest and coastal scenery were stunning and has certainly given her a passion for more visits to this part of Scotland. And to make life more interesting some of the roads were narrow and single track, however perfectly accessible for coaches.

Look out for our new tour destinations coming shortly or click here to view our current Scotland tours.

Amy had spent many family holidays in the Lake District but wanted to find out more! Over 150 miles were covered visiting and exploring this wonderful county of Cumbria.

The weather set the scene nicely – clear blue skies and crisp Autumnal days.

Amy viewed several attractions that she would recommend for groups. Active groups with specific interests in art, history or gardening would enjoy tours of Levens Hall, National Trust Sizergh Castle, Holker Hall and Dalemain Mansion & Gardens. These attractions are able to tailor tours for their visitors with enthusiastic guides ready to pass on their extensive knowledge.

Amy loved the tour of Dalemain Mansion that had an impressive Medieval banqueting room – one of the tour members was so impressed, he stroked the medieval stones surrounding the doorway and put his foot on the bar under the table that had been moulded by hundreds of feet through the ages! Maybe your group would like to do the same?

Holker Hall, home to the Cavendish family, was full of art work including John Singer Sargent drawings that the guide was so pleased to talk about. The gardens at Holker Hall were very accessible with ramps for wheelchair users or mobility difficulties.

Levens Hall is a destination attraction for some of the best and oldest architectural topiary gardens. At the time of Amy’s visit, the staff were all busy modelling the trees to great effect. The Levens Kitchen has a great reputation serving seasonal inspired fresh local produce.

The fine weather was ideal for an early morning drive to watch a departure of Ullswater Steamers at Glenridding. The Ullswater Lake was like a mirror, perfect for a photograph!

There are many ways of enjoying the spectacular scenery – by coach, by rail or by boat. Amy watched as customers arrived at Lakeside on the steam train then boarded the awaiting cruiser with the team to welcome them on the quayside of Lake Windermere.  One of the people queuing to board the cruiser having arrived by rail said to her companion, ‘This is great, we don’t have to wait!’

Bowness-on-Windermere was teaming with visitors arriving and departing on the cruisers. Bowness is highly recommended for a few hours to explore the shops or watch the world go by in one of the cafés.

Amy certainly experienced the ‘Lake District welcome’ with open arms with treats around every corner from Grasmere Gingerbread, Penrith Toffee or Kendal Mint Cake.

The Lake District is a perfect destination for your group wanting to fill the camera with perfect images of stunning scenery and indulge in the history of the notable buildings in the area.

The group stayed at the Marriott Hotel Glasgow Argyle Street, which was a great base to explore the city of Glasgow. From the hotel, it was a leisurely walk into the city centre or and close to the hop-on hop-off bus stop. This was an excellent hotel with well-appointed rooms that you would expect from a hotel of this standard. The friendly staff were on hand serving the locally produce food in the restaurant. Some of the group took advantage of the leisure facilities including a swim in the indoor pool.

Visits were made to the Kelpies, Stirling, the Edinburgh Tattoo, Falkirk Wheel, a cruise on Loch Lomond and a scenic drive through the Trossachs National Park. The group members were impressed with the beautiful scenery in the Trossachs – it was a bonus that the weather was glorious! On the last evening, the group ate at the Buchanan Arms Hotel in Drymen.

One of the Performing Arts group summarised the Edinburgh Tattoo as “absolutely gorgeous” – it was, without doubt, the highlight of the tour.

Spectacular Scottish scenery with history around every corner twinned with city centre experiences, Greatdays highly recommend this tour to your group.

Tours to Scotland

The trip also included excursions that really brought the city’s history and culture to life. Rachael visited the famous TV Tower for panoramic views, explored Berlin’s underground bunkers on a guided tour, and learned more about the city’s role in the world wars. She also enjoyed a hop-on hop-off bus tour, which was a great way to get an overview of the city, and even tried a virtual reality experience that gave a modern twist to exploring Berlin’s past.

Overall, the familiarisation trip added valuable first-hand insight into Berlin as a destination. She came away with a better understanding of what the city can offer to our clients, from those interested in history and culture to those looking for unique modern experiences.

For tours to Germany, click here

From Roman battles to wartime Britain, the 90-minute outdoor spectacle brought 2,000 years of history to life with jaw-dropping choreography, live animals, stunning effects, and a cast of over 1,000 dedicated volunteers. It’s more than just a performance — Kynren is a celebration of community, heritage, and the power of storytelling on a truly grand scale.

If you’re anywhere near the North East this summer, go and see it. You won’t forget it!

www.greatdays.co.uk/tour/kynren-an-epic-tale-of-england/

Travelling by air to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, they stayed the first night at The Jangle Hotel, with its own shuttle bus from Terminal 2. They used this service back so they could take the train into Paris for the evening. Strolling from Notre-Dame de Paris to the Eiffel Tower to see the city light up and sparkle along the way.

The next day after meeting the group at the airport, they boarded two mini-vans and drove the scenic route to Dream Castle hotel, where the group would be staying for their vacation. Letting the group settle in, Halle and Claire were taken on show-arounds of the Fabulous Hotels starting at Dream Castle Hotel, then onto the Explorers Hotel ending at the Grand Magic Hotel, all near to each other and sharing the shuttle bus to Disneyland® Paris. Each hotel has something different to offer our groups, with each having their own swimming pools, ideal to cool down after a day at the Parks.

Enjoying dinner at Annette’s in Disney® Village, they also managed to squeeze in time to take a peek at the new shops in the village including Deco by Disney & Disney Style, before checking into Staycity Paris Marne La Vallée for two nights.

With an early start the next day, the group met their Disney Performing Arts coordinator’s going ‘backstage’ for their Disney Performing Arts Dance Workshop, what an experience it was for them all, watched by Halle and Claire. With free time before the next hotel visit, Halle and Claire went to see The Lion King: Rhythms of the Pride Lands at the Frontierland Theatre with a quick lunch at Casa del Coco. Although staying at Staycity, they had a show-around including the spacious villas, swimming pool and local village of Bailly-Romainvilliers with a local supermarket. Later they took the free hotel shuttle bus to the Parks to try a few rides, dinner at The Hollywood Gardens Restaurant in the newly refurbished World Premiere Plaza under the twinkling lights, before staying to watch the dazzling finale of fireworks and magical effects from Main Street U.S.A.

Performance Day arrives, after months of planning the group are ready to take to the stage. First they have to meet the DPA coordinator’s and go through the stage and blocking, before the final preparations for hair and make-up, then its curtain up for their 20-minute performance on the Videopolis Theatre. Their dance routines were stunning bringing a tear to both Halle and Claire, still on a high, the group had a photo with Donald Duck to end an amazing morning.

With a lunch stop at Casey’s Corner for their famous hotdogs, they managed to fit in the new Disney Music Hits Concert and Mickey’s PhilharMagic show before heading to the train station for the high-speed train back to the airport.

Take a look at what we can offer https://www.greatdays.co.uk/disneyland-paris-for-groups/

Megan attended business sessions during the trip where the latest Disneyland® Paris news and updates were shared, along with training on all aspects of selling the magic! The exciting construction at Walt Disney Studios Park® continues and we got glimpses of the new World of Frozen which we can’t wait to open in 2026.

There were also meetings and show-arounds at both onsite and offsite hotels, including the recently re-imagined Disneyland Hotel which offers the ultimate 5-star royal experience with an unbeatable location right at the entrance of the Disneyland® Park. It truly is beautiful but there are hotels to suit all budgets, including offsite options nearby like the self-catering studio apartments at Staycity Paris Marne La Vallée which we have found to be an excellent choice for our groups.

Megan had the opportunity to enjoy the Disney Music Festival which has taken over the Disneyland® Park for the summer, and also saw the new nighttime spectacular Disney Tales of Magic which is not to be missed. Character Breakfast at Plaza Gardens on the final morning was the perfect ending and is definitely something to recommend to all of our groups.

Based on previous feedback this was the first time Disney have hosted a three-night/four-day fam trip, giving more time to explore and savour the delights of the magical Disney® Parks and Hotels.

Megan might have visited Disneyland® Paris over 20 times, but there is always something new to see and learn!

Fabulous lake and mountain scenery combined with warm hospitality, glorious sunshine and many memorable highlights including river cruises and rail journeys, glass blowing and folk dancing, breathtaking cable car rides and the crystal magnificence of Swarovski – a sparkling visit in all senses and thoroughly recommended.

Celebrating our 40th Anniversary this year, Greatdays has established strong supplier relationships and provided many successful group tours to the Tyrol and across Austria with plenty more planned. Bring your tour alive with a Sound of Music theme, make Boats and Trains your preference or encompass the region’s scenic beauty with a Lakes & Mountains itinerary. So much to choose from, so why not let us help tailor-make your perfect Austrian experience.

https://www.greatdays.co.uk/tour/austria-gems/
https://www.greatdays.co.uk/tour/austria-trains-boats/
https://www.greatdays.co.uk/tour/austrian-lakes-salzkammergut/
https://www.greatdays.co.uk/tour/austrian-winter-wonderland/

Working between the Europa, Ramada and Hilton hotels and with the fantastic Giles Coaches, they helped members in the hotels, getting to and from the ICC for their AM and excursions to Titanic Belfast with a panoramic city tour, Troubles, Law and order, Royal Hillsborough and Lorne Estate.

The last day was airport transfers from the hotels to Belfast International airport, whilst some members continued onto Armagh and the Fermanagh Lakes for a four day tour.

With some free time, Claire also visited Belfast City Hall for a guided tour and Victoria Square to enjoy the Dome with 360° views of Belfast.

https://www.greatdays.co.uk/tour/belfast-causeway-coast-tour/
https://www.greatdays.co.uk/tour/hidden-gems-northern-ireland/
https://www.greatdays.co.uk/tour/christmas-markets/

After a short flight, we were met by the very efficient McComb’s coaches who provided coach hire throughout the tour.  Visits included the world-famous Giants Causeway, Titanic Experience, Museum of Free Derry and the Derry Guildhall along with a very informative walking tour of Derry.  We also had the opportunity of visiting both the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum which were very interesting.  There is so much history connected to this area of Northern Ireland.  And the friendly people tell the stories of times gone by with the bonus of pretty scenery around every corner.

We had a change one day and ventured into County Donegal to spend time at the Inishowen Maritime Museum, after a scenic tour following the shores of Lough Foyle.  This museum was so interesting and once again we had such a warm welcome from the staff.  We were fortunate enough to have a guided tour of Stormont and Hillsborough Castle which all added to a really interesting and informative tour covering this part of Northern Ireland.

If you are thinking of adding this destination to your programme or would like assistance in planning a tour to this area please contact our sales team at sales@greatdays.co.uk
or visit www.greatdays.co.uk/uk-group-travel/ireland-group-travel/

Just a short hop from the UK, year-round the Netherlands delivers a rewarding travel experience, this is especially so over the spring time when the world-renowned tulips are in bloom. The gardens are not home to only tulips, but hyacinths, daffodils, lilies, roses, carnations and irises to name a few. The colours, smells and atmosphere are a spectacle.

Keukenhof, often called the “Garden of Europe”, was a feast for the senses. With over 7 million bulbs in bloom, it’s a colourful display like no other, with a sweet smell in the air that pulls you around the gardens. There are vibrant tulip displays, peaceful water features, and artistic garden designs around every corner, not to mention the towering windmill that allows you to overlook the beautiful gardens at height. Whether it’s your first visit, or your tenth, Keukenhof always impresses.

Our trip also took us to Royal Delft. It was fascinating to watch the craftsmanship and patience behind the hand-painted pieces and learn about the rich history of this iconic Dutch tradition. A perfect contrast to the floral explosion of Keukenhof, Royal Delft offers a quiet and peaceful experience that leaves a lasting impression.

From the locals greeting you with a smile, to the stunning fields of tulips that paint a million pictures, and the picturesque towns that radiate history and charm, a short break over to The Netherlands has something for everyone.

If you’re interested in adding Keukenhof or Royal Delft to your tour package, or would like help planning your next group trip to the Netherlands, get in touch with our team at sales@greatdays.co.uk

Click here to see our tours to the Netherlands

Being so close to the UK it is a rewarding and affordable place to visit. Lots of inspiration and insight gained for new and exciting tour itineraries, so do contact us at sales@greatdays.co.uk if you are looking for a refreshing tour package to Belgium.

Click here to see our tours to Belgium

There was over 100 passengers in the group which attended to watch their friends and family perform onstage in the Disneyland® Park, showcasing their dance skills to an international audience.

Disneyland® Paris says:

“The Disney Performing Arts OnStage programme provides performance opportunities to amateur groups, with the aim of giving them a glimpse into Disney’s world of entertainment, by offering them the unique once in a lifetime experience of becoming a ‘Disney performer’ for the day.”