An attraction in central Manchester is opening its doors to groups: Elizabeth Gaskell’s House, at 84 Plymouth Grove.
It’s the impressive home of famous author Elizabeth Gaskell, the famous Victorian novelist, whose work includes Cranford, North and South, and Wives and Daughters, as well as a biography of Charlotte Bronte. Her publisher was Charles Dickens, who encouraged her to contribute to his magazines after reading her anonymous first novel, Mary Barton.
On 26 February 2018, coach and tour operators and group travel organisers are invited to attend a special group launch, to see for themselves what inspired one of the world’s greatest female writers – and how well 84 Plymouth Grove suits their itineraries.
Organised by Steve Reed Tourism, the event will see some delegates hosted at the Village Hotel Bury on Sunday 25 February, with the chance to see some of Manchester’s other group attractions.
Fresh from a complete refurbishment through Heritage Lottery funding, the House offers private and bespoke group tours on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays. These must be booked in advance.
Prices start from £10pp, which includes a guided tour, a drink and slice of cake in the tea room. Group tours and visits last between one and two hours, and groups of 10-60 people can be accommodated at once.
Bespoke tours include the Gaskell’s home life, Victorian Manchester and Elizabeth Gaskell’s literary career. Coaches can drop off directly outside the house.
Sally Jastrzebski-Lloyd, House Manager of Elizabeth Gaskell’s House, says: “The House is an ideal new attraction for groups of all types – not only those interested in literature.
“We are centrally located, close to lots of other attractions, easy to find and have some great facilities for groups including easy drop off/pick up and nearby free coach parking. We also have a lovely tea room and a beautiful garden.”
Steve Reed says: “We’ve worked all over the UK and have taken groups to some stunning attractions with literary themes, including the Bodleian Library in Oxford; Jane Austen’s House Museum in Hampshire; and the Bronte Parsonage in Yorkshire.
“They’re all a magnet for groups.”
- Contact steve@stevereedtourism.co.uk
