With the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and the Queen’s Jubilee, it’s little wonder VisitBritain has launched a multimillion-pound campaign seeking to tempt holidaymakers to UK and Irish cities. Here are three new experiences
For TV Lovers
Fans of Call the Midwife will have the chance to go behind the scenes and see where the BBC show is filmed on a new coach break from National Holidays.
At the 400-year-old Historic Dockyard Chatham, the itinerary will show how the location was transformed into the East London of the 1950s and 60s. The walking tour will take guests along the cobbled streets to see where the real drama happened, all guided by a costumed midwife. There is also a chance to visit London for sightseeing and shopping.
Claire Dutton, trade sales manager at National Holidays, says: “This tour is a must for Call The Midwife fans. Our breaks that offer the chance to visit filming locations are hugely popular.”
BOOK IT
The two-day Call the Midwife Locations Tour departs from Aug-Oct. Price from £124pp, based on two sharing. Includes one night’s B&B and return coach travel from various pick-up points. • nationalholidays.com/agents
For culture vultures
Clients seeking to combine the hustle and bustle of the city with fresh coastal air can enjoy both in the Scottish city of Inverness. After delving into the art, history and culture of the Highlands at the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery, or perhaps admiring the work of celebrated Scots architect Alexander Ross at Inverness Cathedral, visitors can drive around an hour to the newly refurbished Royal Marine Hotel, Brora, which is located along the popular North Coast 500.
A member of the newly-formed Scottish group Highland Coast Hotels, the property has undergone a multimillion-pound restoration of its 21 rooms and suites and has a rebranded restaurant.
General manager Gail Sutherland says: “Guests are guaranteed a true Highland escape with beautiful beaches, historic castles, local distilleries and much more.”
BOOK IT
Prices for Royal Marine Hotel, Brora are £224 per double room, per night. • royalmarinebrora.com
For art enthusiasts
Bristol is welcoming the new Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, after the attraction garnered success in the US. Debuting in former factory Propyard,a centre for art, music and food, the Immersive Experience is a light and sound spectacular where, thanks to two-storey projections, guests can enjoy Van Gogh’s brilliant works in 360 degrees.
In addition to a spacious central area, the experience includes separate galleries that chronicle the artist’s life, technique and influence through interactive displays.
Hamza El Azhar, the co-founder of Exhibition Hub, says: “This is a truly immersive experience that provides its audience with a new, intimate understanding of the post-impressionist genius and his work.”
BOOK IT
Tickets for Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience start from £21.90 for adults and £14 for children. •vangoghexpo.com/bristol