To mark the commencement of National Coach Week on 12 May, the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) has named what it says are the 10 top destinations in the UK for coaches to visit.
In a further indication of unanimous support for National Coach Week from the three national trade bodies that represent the sector, CPT Coaching Manager Phil Smith says that the event “is the perfect time to celebrate the destinations going the extra mile for coach groups and drivers.”
He adds that the 10 locations and attractions “are helping to boost group travel by offering outstanding facilities, warm welcomes and unforgettable experiences.”
The 10 destinations are:
- Beamish Museum in County Durham
- Blackpool
- Bury Market
- RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Essex
- Inverness (pictured)
- The Cotswolds
- Dunfermline
- Llandudno
- Matlock Bath
- The Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh.
CPT says that they collectively capture a wide variety of interests and “are fuelling the resurgence of group travel and celebrating the essential role that coaches play in UK tourism.”
It highlights how each offers a warm welcome for travellers and coach drivers alike. Notable points from the selection include:
- Beamish Museum received over 700 coach groups in 2024, which CPT says were drawn by fast-track group entry, welcoming hospitality and immersive experiences – positives that were recognised in the renewal of Coach Friendly Status for Beamish last year
- Bury Market hosted 1,200 coach visits last year, a 7.15% increase in 2023, and offers free coach parking along with a rest area and meal voucher for drivers
- Inverness saw almost 4,000 coach visits in 2024
- Llandudno is predicting an up to 70% increase in visitor numbers in 2025 compared to 2023, which will translate to “a bumper year” for coach tourism thanks to ample facilities.
