The latest CTA  zoom session took members on an extensive virtual tour of Wales, packed with ideas about attractions and destinations that are keen to welcome coach groups back as the Covid restrictions begin to be lifted. Taking place just a few days before 17 May, which signals a significant moment for operators in England and Wales, the session was organised by CTA with Partner member Visit Wales along with colleagues from Cadw, National Museum Wales, and National Trust Wales.

Clare Dwight, Senior Tourism Marketing Manager, Visit Wales, told members that everyone will be delighted to see the tourism and hospitality sectors opening up, with coach groups once again enjoying everything that Wales has to offer. She referred to the guidance for coach operators and the reintroduction of the Rule of 6, and provided key references for keeping up with the latest information, all of which are detailed in the full presentation.

Visit Wales has also prepared this Re-opening Grid detailing the times and procedures for attractions across Wales.

Cadw is the government body that looks after heritage sites and landscapes in Wales, including two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Shuna Williams from Cadw updated members on a Tour Operator Scheme that was launched last year, just ahead of the pandemic. The CTOS system offers priority to trade bookings and is accompanied by an increase in the normal 10 per cent group discount to 20 per cent until March 2022. Operators need to pre-book three weeks ahead at all sites, and Cadw is providing a number of new itinerary ideas and virtual visits to help with forward planning.

Jenny Walford from National Museum Wales told CTA members that coach groups have priority booking at their museums which all offer free entrance and discounts for coach passengers in the shops. National Museum Wales has seven stunning museums covering a wide range of historical periods, art, craft and industry, including St Fagan’s National Museum of History in Cardiff and National Museum Wales which houses a leading collection of impressionist paintings. Like Cadw, National Museum Wales is able to provide sample itineraries which highlight key attractions that are close to their sites to help operators plan a great day out for their groups.

National Trust Wales is planning a phased reopening of its indoor properties from 17 May and coach operators need to contact individual properties to pre-book their visits. National Trust Wales’ Luke Potter advised that space for coaches is not a problem at their properties and the pre-booking system helps ensure that site staff are on hand to help coaches with access and parking. Laura Smart who works with National Trust in England echoed Luke’s comments about welcoming coaches back to their sites and reported that more than 120 houses will be starting to reopen from 17 May. Laura is very keen to make contact with the coach sector to support group visits to National Trust sites.

The final presentation was given by Judith Newton, marketing manager, Visit Wales, who updated on a number of new attractions and facilities available in Wales. The exciting new Zip World Tower at the former Tower Colliery in South wales will be a must for those looking for an adrenaline rush and it also provides great views across the Rhigos mountain range. For a quieter retreat, the redevelopment of the visitor centre and cafe at Llys y Fran Country Park & Reservoir in Pembrokeshire offers a perfect location for gentle strolls while enjoying fresh air, wildlife and great views. And on 18 May, the 106-bedroom Hilton Garden Inn opens its doors in Adventure Parc, Snowdonia. Other new attractions include Hensol Distillery at Hensol Castle, near Cardiff, where guests can learn about the production of gin and even create their own bespoke blend to take away with them.

Full contact details for the presenters and further details see the full presentation.

And a recording of the zoom session is here.

And here are two videos to further whet your appetite, one from Visit Wales and one from National Trust Wales.

A film showcasing Wales for its Year of Outdoors 2021:

The beautiful colours of Bodnant Garden, National Trust Wales: