As the year moves toward winter, the group travel sector is already looking ahead to 2026.
Planning cycles continue to shorten, with organisers confirming itineraries earlier and seeking clarity, reliability, and well-structured products. This shift places a premium on attractions that understand group needs and can deliver consistency, value, and memorable experiences.
A major highlight is the refreshed Annual CTA Workshop, taking place in Derry Londonderry from 6 to 10 February 2026.
Sponsored by Tourism Ireland, the event places the Buyer Workshop at its core, bringing together coach operators, wholesalers, attractions, hotels, and destinations for focused business development meetings. The redesigned format ensures meaningful commercial conversations happen early in the year, supporting stronger planning and confident booking decisions.
Elsewhere in this issue, we explore Great British Heritage, spotlight Leeds Castle, preview what lies ahead for 2026, and showcase Devon’s top attractions. Together, these features reflect a sector that remains resilient, forward-looking, and firmly focused on delivering quality group travel experiences.
Happy Christmas.
The Trusted Directory for Coach Travel
Coach travel has always been about more than getting from A to B. It is organised, predictable, and designed around shared experiences that turn journeys into lasting memories.
As Coach Touring The Directory 2026 reaches its 25th edition, it reflects a quarter of a century helping operators find places that truly understand groups.
The year ahead points to continued strength in domestic coach tourism. Demand remains resilient, with organisers planning earlier, spending more per head, and favouring attractions that offer structure, efficiency, and reliability. Well-planned coach visits benefit destinations not just for a day, but across an entire season.
This Directory is organised by region because that is how operators plan. It brings together venues that understand parking, timings, drivers’ needs, group menus, toilets, gift shops, and smooth arrivals. These are places built for coaches, not adapted as an afterthought.
Use this Directory to discover new routes, test fresh ideas, and strengthen proven programmes. Group travel remains human, real, and shared and the coach is still at its heart.
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NEWS >
Jodrell Bank is a unique and awe-inspiring place. A world-leading radio observatory, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an award-winning visitor attraction.
