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Category Archive: City guides

  1. Getting to preston via minibus

    It’s tempting when writing about things to do around the UK to take the easy option and focus on the biggies like London or Edinburgh, where internationally recognised events are happening all the time, and overlook the smaller regional cities such as Preston.

    The North West’s newest city, Preston’s best known event is probably the Preston Guild, which unfortunately only takes place every twenty years, leaving the question of what do Prestonians do whilst waiting for the next Guild to come along?

    Quite a lot actually, if our Preston minibus hire activities are an indication!

    Nights out in Preston range from the relaxing to the manic, with everything from on the menu from dining out at some of the UK’s finest restaurants to enjoying a vibrant pub scene – reckoned to be Lancashire’s finest – and more night clubs in Preston than you might imagine, venues like Evoque, Squires & NYNY and Cameo which cater happily for the all-night set.

    There’s also a good amount of live entertainment available in Preston at the Guild Hall and 53 Degrees with a good mix of live entertainment from music and shows to comedy and events.

    And with its major museums, haunted historic halls, nature reserves and location as the gateway to Lancashire’s Ribble Valley and beyond, you won’t be stuck for things to do in Preston whether for a day out or a weekend break in the city.

    If you’re still looking for more, Preston is less than an hour from the bright lights and big stores of Manchester or those fantastic Liverpool events – and ‘kiss-me-quick’ Blackpool of course!

    It may be one of the smaller cities, but Preston and its surroundings are high on our list of minibus hire destinations, so we think it’s well worth a look, even in between the Guilds!

  2. Whats the easiest way to get to Edinburgh?

    When you run a minibus hire company you not only find your way around an area, but you get to know what goes on in places; where to eat, where the entertainment venues are, what’s happening around town, and of course, the best clubs and pubs to party!

    Take Edinburgh for example. It is host to some big internationally recognised events like the Edinburgh Festival, The Tattoo and one of the biggest New Year’s Eve celebrations around. But what is there to do in Edinburgh on a normal day out or weekend?

    Edinburgh is a serious tourist magnet providing visitors with a wealth of places to see and things to do. You can lose yourself in history with a visit to Edinburgh Castle, take a tour on the dark side on one of Edinburgh’s famous ghost tours or spend time at any of the many family attractions around the city. It’s a great place for a day out!

    Outside of The Festival, Edinburgh’s theatres are up there with the best and a look through any programme of upcoming shows will reveal a wide selection from panto to Shakespeare, comedy to drama.

    And what about Edinburgh’s nightlife? With pubs and clubs galore, there’s no shortage of venues for a good night out whatever your taste; everything from a gig at Sneaky Pete’s to dinner at The Witchery or a wee dram at Bennet’s Bar. Something for every occasion from special anniversary celebration to hen party!

    Throw in Princes Street, the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Zoo, the Royal Yacht and much more, and it’s clear you’ll never be stuck for things to do in Edinburgh!

    Which is where we come in! If you’re heading for Edinburgh for The Festival, a night out, hen or stag party or a day trip to explore the city, we can give you and your group not only the best deals for minibus hire in Edinburgh, but the benefit of our knowledge of what this great city has to offer. And that is what really does set us apart from the rest!

  3. How to get to Birmingham Airport by Minibus

    Birmingham Airport situated in the west midlands offers both internal and international flights to Europe, North America and Asia. Making Birmingham Airport one of the busiest airports in the country. ActuaTransport offers transport both too and from the Airport at a great value. Whether it is for 4, to 54 passengers, ActuaTransport caters for any minibus or coach journeys for Birmingham Airport.

     

    Why drive to Birmingham Airport, when you can get our punctual professional chauffer to pick you up and take you to the airport, in one of our modern and presentable vehicles. Avoid Birmingham Airports parking charges by taking a minibus or coach instead. With over 9 million passengers travelling through it last year, Birmingham Airport is one of the UKs busiest airports. Avoid the rush by booking a simple and organised trip with ActuaTransport minibus and coach hire.

     

    ActuaTransport also offers a meet and great service for customers in Birmingham Airport arrivals. Our uniformed drivers can meet you and assist you with your luggage, to make the sometimes stressful commute, a lot easier. All our journeys are pre booked, to avoid stress or confusion. Simple book with ActuaTransport minibus and coach hire and your travel needs will be taken care of.

     

    ActuaTransport offers transport to and from Birmingham Airport, we can cater from 4 to 54 passengers in one vehicle.  All prices agreed with the booking office are the final price, there is no extra charges applied. ActuaTransport also offers tours and events across the UK, if you are visiting the UK for the first time and need ideas, feel free to ask your booking agent.

  4. Why Visit Liverpool and how to get there by minibus

    Are you new to Liverpool and this is your first visit? Need inspiration or ideas for a visit, with years of experience in providing transport and tours, ActuaTransport are experts in this area. Whether it is for 6-56, ActuaTransport can provide coach and minibus transport in Liverpool and organise an activity filled stay in Liverpool. Making sure you don’t miss out on any of the beautiful scenery and activities the city of Liverpool has to offer.

     

    Stadium Tours

    Liverpool is a city that hosts two of the most successful clubs in British football. Liverpool and Everton FC have two of the oldest and most historically rich stadiums not only in Liverpool, but in the world. Goodison Park and Anfield are less than 1 mile away from each other, which makes them some of the closest football stadia in Britain. For Minibus or Coach tours of the stadiums, feel free to enquire for costings. We can offer packages as part of a tour of Liverpool or we can offer the trip on its own.

     

    Beatles Tour

    No trip to Liverpool would be complete without viewing the legacy left behind by the Beatles. ActuaTransport can offer a full day tour visiting the significant places of the Beatles. Enquire with one of our staff, if you want to customise your Beatles tour. We offer minibus and coaches to and from all the Beatles locations in Liverpool. Whether you want to visit the home of a young John Lennon at Mendips. Perhaps you want to see the thrills of the world famous Cavern Club, the club labelled ‘the cradle of British pop’. There is also penny lane, situated in the south of the city a great location to get an iconic photograph to remember your stay in the great city of Liverpool. Call us on 0845 200 3005 or email us on info@actuatransport.co.uk for details and ideas on how you would like to spend your time in the city.

     

    Albert Dock

    The Liverpool docks were once the lifeblood of the city and the city owes much of its history to its docks. The docks were the gateway to the world during the 19th and early 20th century. Much of its wealth came through the trade from the ships docking here. Visiting the docks is a must for anyone that wants to see Liverpool. ActuaTransport offers coach and minibus hire with driver to and from the docks. The docks offer much for all types of groups, there are museums for the family, restaurants and cafes and the ‘Pumphouse’ pub. You can visit the Merseyside Maritime Museum and there is an International slavery Museum, ideal places to go to learn about Liverpool’s role in the empire. For your cultural needs the Albert dock also hosts the famous Tate Liverpool art gallery, which is free admission.

     

    Liverpool Cathedrals

    Liverpool has two beautiful cathedrals to offer, which dominate the cities sky line. Two vastly different styles in architecture make visiting both of them a must. The Liverpool Anglican cathedral ranks as the fifth biggest cathedral in the world. With a height of 101 metres, the Liverpool Anglican cathedral is one of the biggest non spired churches in the world. The Liverpool Metropolitan cathedral is a much more unique structure, due to its round spires some locals have dubbed it as the ‘Mersey Funnel’. The completion began in 1962 and was complete in 1967

    The churches are open all year round, so do make sure that in your trip to Liverpool, you include a trip to these two impressive structures.

  5. How to get to Manchester Christmas Markets

    Manchester Christmas Markets

     

    It is getting to that time of year. The Christmas feeling is in the air, spirits are high. Why not take the family and friends to visit Manchester’s world famous Christmas markets. ActuaTransport offer minibus and coach hire to and from the Manchester Christmas Markets. So grab your coat and scalf and come and visit the Manchester Christmas Markets today.

     

    Based in the heart of the city. Manchester’s Christmas Markets return again this year to offer revellers that special Christmas feel. Whether it’s mulled wine or a stein of Erdinger, you can let us do the driving, whilst you sit back and enjoy the entire Manchester Christmas market experience. Hungry? There is plenty of hot food on the go, and a trip to the market wouldn’t be the same without a traditional Bratwurst hotdog.

     

    The Manchester Christmas Markets offer a wide selection of continental beers and alcoholic beverages, so make sure you make time to try them all! There are several bars and stalls scattered throughout the markets, with plenty of variety for every need. The markets have a friendly atmosphere and is a great place to take the kids.

     

    If you are stuck for ideas for Christmas gifts, the Manchester Christmas Market offers a wide range of small gifts and hand crafted trinkets, ideal for that alternative gift. Everything from Handcrafted leather bags, unique amber jewellery, to organic Dutch cheeses and Bavarian German Sausage.  The markets cater to all different wants and needs and should be enjoyed by everybody.

     

    Call us on 0845 200 3005 or send an email enquiry, we offer all transport for any size group. We can offer the transport to and from the markets from all over the UK. We can also offer you the Manchester Christmas Markets on its own, or as a package tour of Manchester. To enquire about tours of Manchester, ask on of the ActuaTransport staff either over the phone or via email. Visit Manchester today!

  6. Things to do in Liverpool

    What is there to do in Liverpool? Where do we start!

    Liverpool is a city with something for everyone, whether your interest is sightseeing, history, shopping, sport or simply having a good time.

    A day out on the Liverpool Waterfront offers the Albert Dock with its Slavery and Maritime Museums telling the story of Liverpool’s heritage and the Pier Head where past meets present with the stunning architecture of the Three Graces contrasting with the modern Museum of Liverpool.

    Not forgetting of course the tribute exhibitions to The Beatles!

    Find out more about Liverpool nightlife and transportation here

  7. Great Christmas Party Ideas in Liverpool

    We’re now well into November – time to crank up the heating and get ready for a bit of winter chill and Christmas shopping! And if you haven’t already booked your Christmas Party, you really do need to be getting that sorted now.

    Liverpool is a great place for a Christmas party. We know; we take party groups into and around the city every Christmas and there’s a real variety of places to go to enjoy whatever type of Christmas entertainment you’re looking for. So here’s a selection to get you started.

    Wherever your football loyalties lie, Everton and Liverpool FC both put on festive party nights with all the trimmings you’d expect for a Christmas ‘do’, with live entertainment and themed music nights just part of what’s on offer.

    For a more relaxed Christmas party experience, head down to the Albert Dock where you’ll find several great venues from the stylish Gusto’s to the easy going What’s Cooking or the traditional Pump House. Something for everyone!

    Liverpool’s hotels get into the season’s spirit with both exclusive and shared Christmas party nights and a wide choice of party styles. You could start by seeing what the Titanic, the Village Urban Resort, the Hard Day’s Night or the Atlantic Tower have to offer.

    Christmas parties in Liverpool are found right across the City with some great and unusual venues and themes. Try the Venue at the Royal Liver Building for something a bit prestigious or a Speakeasy Ball at Aintree for a touch of the 1920’s. Perhaps a tailored package at Revolution?

    Whatever you want from your Christmas party, you’ll find it in Liverpool.

    And when you do decide where you’re going for your Christmas bash, don’t forget to play it safe by arranging for transport for your group. A minibus and driver hire from Actua is the only way to do it – no hassle, no worries about driving licences! Just sit back and let us get you there and back.

    Give us a call for the best minibus hire deals in Liverpool!

  8. Our top picks for fabulous nights out in London

    Whether you’re looking to visit the major superclubs, high-end bars or smaller, more intimate venues, London is definitely the place to be for a top night out. If you’re planning to experience the London nightlife with a large group, minibus hire is essential. But as for which venues you choose, it can be difficult to know where to start – after all, with so many destinations on offer, you’re really spoilt for choice.

    To help you out, we’ve put together some of the best London nightlife venues below:

    Cargo

    Known for being incredibly diverse, Cargo is one of our top choices. The venue’s cool factor is definitely helped by the fact that it’s situated directly underneath some railway arches, with delicious global street food making this a must-visit bar. Even better, you’ll get free entry if you arrive before 10pm on Friday nights.

    Showtime Cabaret at Cafe de Paris

    Cabaret is so popular at the moment, and where better to get an eyeful than at Cafe de Paris? It has a reputation for naughtiness and opulence, so sit back, relax and enjoy a vibrant parade of adult entertainment and wonder.

    Egg London

    Nights out in London wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Egg – especially if you’re a fan of the Ibiza scene. Its stylish surroundings are spread over three floors, with an intimate outdoor courtyard where you can just chill out and gaze at the stars if you need a break from a hardcore dancing session. There’s even breakfast provided if you stay long enough!

    The Cat and Mutton

    The Cat and Mutton is a vibrant, lively pub. Well known for its atmosphere of buzzy-yet-relaxed fun, which can quickly switch to frivolous frolics and lively entertainment, this could be just the place to have a fantastic night out. Even better – if you manage to beat the barman by rolling the dice, you’ll get your entire round for free! Score.

    Fabric

    If hardcore is more your style, a visit to Fabric is essential. After dancing the night away, you can relax and have a chat on the massive leather chill-out beds the venue provides – you may even make some new friends! This venue is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays – plenty of time to get your freak on.

    See the sights

    Looking for minibus hire to the London Eye, or the Shard? These are just two of the best places to get a bird’s eye view of the city in all its spectacular glory. If you’re after a great night out in London and want to see all there is to see, a minibus can get your group to all your planned destinations without having to arrange buses or multiple taxis.

  9. 3 Awesome Museums for a Great Day Out

    Visiting a museum is a great way to spend a day and we our minibus with drivers are often employed taking parties all over the country to visit a variety of museums. If you are looking for ideas for a great day out then we thought we would share with you some of our favourite museums.

    1. British Museum
    Location: London
    This is a huge museum, with over three million artefacts, and you will be unlikely to see everything inside it in a single day. Even the entrance to the building is on a large scale. The imposing columns tower over you as you enter the building and you know that you are in for a real treat.

    The museum contains an array of delights that are too numerous to mention but one must see item is Hoa Hakananai’a, a statue from Easter Island. If you are alone in the room with him (and yes I realise I referred to a statue as “him”) you can feel a presence as he gazes down at you.

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    Other highlights that can currently be seen include Ancient Lives (Ends April19 2015), eight mummies and their stories and The Meroe Head of Augustus.

    2. National Museum of Flight
    Location: East Fortune, Scotland
    The National Museum of Flight is located at East Fortune airport in buildings that date back to the Second World War when they were built for the RAF. The hangars are now used to display many of the aircraft that the museum houses.

    The aircraft on display include Percy Pitcher’s Hawk glider that dates back to 1897. There are also models of The Wright Brother’s Model A aircraft. There are also many iconic British aircraft including a Spitfire, Lightning and Harrier fighters.
    concorde-in-hangar-4_490x732
    Perhaps the most interesting exhibit is The Concorde Experience. To this date Concorde is still the only commercial aircraft to have flown at twice the speed of sound. In addition to be able to board the aircraft there is a fascinating exhibition about the history of supersonic flight.

    3. St Fagans National History Museum
    Location: St Fagans, Wales
    This open air museum is close to Cardiff and is set in the grounds of St Fagans castle (the “castle” is actually an Elizabethan manor house). The museum is made up of over 40 buildings that have been rebuilt in situ but are from various parts of Wales and are fine examples of various types of Welsh architecture. Inside each building you get a glimpse into the past as each is fully furnished in a style appropriate to the period.
    Among the buildings are a variety of houses, a school, a farm, a chapel and a number of workshops. The craftsmen and artisans in the workshops, such as the blacksmith and potter, give regular demonstrations of their skills.

    As well as the living museum you also have access to the Elizabethan manor house and its extensive gardens.
    We hope that wherever you visit that you have a fabulous time and remember if you do need to hire a minibus and driver then do call 0845 200 3005 for a free quote on your minibus hire requirements.

  10. 5 Christmas Party Ideas in Manchester

    If you are trying to decide where to go for your Christmas party then take a look at these five great Christmas party ideas in Manchester. Over the years we have taken parties to pretty much everywhere that you can think of and it is always interesting to hear our client’s stories about their experience on the way home. With that in mind here are our recommendations for Christmas party ideas in Manchester.

    smoak-josper

     

    • Smoak

    Located in the Malmaison hotel on Piccadilly Smoak is renowned for the fine food and wine that it serves to its customers. We hear nothing but good reviews about Smoak and the way the chefs are able to take a traditional dish and give it a very modern twist. The dishes are mainly European and If you are a lover of either steak or fish then you will be in heaven. The menu offers plenty of choice without being overbearing.

     

    Smoak is open 7 days a week from 12pm to 11pm.

     

    sandinista bar

     

     

    • Sandinista

    Sadinista is located just off St Anne’s Square and is a bright, vibrant restaurant and bar. With a name like Sadinista the feel is very latin and the food is tapas style. Youa are guaranteed a warm welcome and the friendliness of the staff is something that our minibus hire customers have commented on. In addition to the normal Christmas Menu they are also offering a Cocktail Masterclass! If you are looking for a late night then the bar is open until 3am every night.

     

    Sandinista restaurant is open 7 days a week from 12pm to 10pm. The bar is open until 3am every evening.

     

    tempus bar

     

     

    • Tempus

    This beautiful bar and restaurant is located within the iconic Palace Hotel and has a very sophisticated feel judging by the comments our minibus drivers hear. It has a sumptuous interior befitting of a Grade 2 Listed Building and the surroundings alone will make it a nice to remember. Couple with this a fabulous menu and the fact that over Christmas you can experience a Rocking Rudolf’s Party Night and we think you and your party will have a great time!

     

    Tempus is open Monday to Saturday 5pm to 9:30pm.

     

    tiger tiger

     

    1. Tiger Tiger
      One of the liveliest party venues in Manchester, Tiger Tiger in The Printworks, offers a scintillating blend of food and music. With an excellent menu that combines the best of Eastern and Western cuisine your only problem will be deciding which of the flavoursome dishes to choose. Parties at Tiger Tiger are always fun with great music and plenty of new friends to make.

     

    Tiger Tiger is open seven days a week 12pm-3am.

    artisan lounge

    1. Artisan
      Artisan, can be found on Bridge Street and has a very unusual setting. Don’t be put off by the restaurant being described as semi industrial, Artisan has very carefully planned the interior with art installations and murals. The menu is predominantly casual dining classics, perfect for parties. We are also told by the parties that have hired our minibuses that Artisan makes fabulous cocktails.

     

    Artisan opens at midday every day and closes at midnight on Wed 1am on Thursday, 2am on Friday and Saturday and 11pm on Sunday.

    We hope that you have found our guide to Christmas party venues in Manchester useful. Remember if you are booking a Christmas party anywhere in the UK and you need to hire a minibus and driver then do call 0845 200 3005 for a free quote on your minibus hire requirements.

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