Top ten coach destinations named during National Coach Week

To celebrate National Coach Week, the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) is shining a spotlight on its top ten coach destinations across the UK.

These destinations offer not only great days out for travellers but also outstanding facilities and warm welcomes for coach operators and drivers. From historic estates to bustling markets and scenic towns, these destinations are fuelling the resurgence of group travel and celebrating the essential role coaches play in UK tourism.

Phil Smith, Coaching Manager at the Confederation of Passenger Transport, said: “National Coach Week is the perfect time to celebrate the destinations going the extra mile for coach groups and drivers. These top 10 spots are helping to boost group travel by offering outstanding facilities, warm welcomes and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re exploring rural gardens or bustling seaside towns, there’s a coach-ready destination waiting to be discovered.”

The CPT’s top ten coach destinations are:

Beamish Museum, Durham

A firm favourite for tour groups since the 1970s, Beamish is one of the UK’s most cherished open-air museums, offering visitors the chance to step back in time and experience life as it was in the 1820s, early 1900s, 1940s and 1950s. Last year, Beamish welcomed over 700 group coaches, drawn by its fast-tracked group entry, welcoming hospitality, and immersive experiences, including historic trams, working shops and period eateries.

Blackpool, Lancashire

As one of Britain’s best-loved seaside towns, Blackpool remains a powerhouse in coach tourism. With iconic attractions like the Blackpool Tower, Pleasure Beach, and the dazzling Illuminations, it continues to offer nostalgic charm and new experiences for groups of all ages.

Bury Market, Greater Manchester

A favourite among coach groups, Bury Market in Greater Manchester combines traditional northern character with modern convenience. With over 500 retailers on one level, free coach parking, and a rest area with driver meal vouchers, it’s no surprise the market hosted 1,200 coach visits last year—a 7.15% increase—and has been shortlisted for Britain’s Favourite Market 2025.

RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Essex

This 365-acre estate gifted to the RHS in 1993 is a horticultural haven, home to over 400 species of plants and an onsite bird hide overlooking a tranquil reservoir. Coach groups benefit from easy drop-off just steps from the main building, along with free entry and refreshments for drivers, making it a serene and well-equipped location for a group day out.

Inverness, Highlands

Known as the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, Inverness welcomed almost 4,000 coaches last year, affirming its growing popularity with group travellers. With its scenic beauty, rich history, and access to iconic locations like Loch Ness, it remains a key destination for tours exploring Scotland’s wild and romantic landscapes.

The Cotswolds, Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire

With its honey-stone villages, rolling hills, and charming market towns, the Cotswolds is a timeless destination for coach tours. Whether enjoying afternoon tea, antique shopping, or exploring gardens and historic houses, the region offers unforgettable experiences with excellent accessibility for group travel.

Dunfermline, Fife

Since being awarded city status in 2022, Scotland’s ancient capital, Dunfermline, has established itself as a leading destination for visitors. After visiting Dunfermline Abbey, the final resting place of Robert the Bruce, groups can then also spend time in Pittencrieff Park. The park is home to Dunfermline’s famous peacocks, who can be seen roaming both the park and the city centre and were given Freedom of the City last year.

Llandudno, North Wales

Llandudno is on track for a bumper year in coach tourism, with predicted summer 2025 visitor numbers rising by up to 70% compared to 2024. With ample coach facilities and popular attractions like the Great Orme and Victorian pier, it’s an increasingly popular spot for seaside escapes.

Matlock Bath, Derbyshire

This picturesque Peak District town offers a perfect mix of heritage and fun, from the Heights of Abraham cable cars to the quirky amusements and classic fish and chips on the riverside promenade. Group favourites also include the Peak District Mining Museum and the unmissable Matlock Bath Illuminations each autumn.

The Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh

Once the floating home of Queen Elizabeth II, The Royal Yacht Britannia is now a five-star visitor attraction berthed in Leith. Welcoming around 350,000 visitors annually – almost a tenth of whom are groups – it offers a royal experience complete with accessible decks, multilingual audio tours, and even a treasure hunt for cuddly corgis.

• For even more top coach trip destination ideas, take a look at B&CB’s sister title, Coach Tours UK