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March 27th, 2009 admin
Here is our second post on things to do in Devon to make your family holiday an amazing experience.
7. Visit Barnstaple’s Pannier Market
If you would like to purchase some local produce or local arts and crafts then why not pay the pannier market in Barnstaple a visit. The Market is open six days a week and throughout most of the year. It has even been voted one of the top ten food markets in the UK. So if you are looking for an extra special gift to take home from your holiday in Devon, why not take a look at the market.
http://www.barnstaplepanniermarket.co.uk/
8. Go surfing in Croyde
Another of Devon’s great beaches is situated in Croyde and it is especially good for budding surfers. Pay a visit to the local surf school and you can take part in one of there many individual lessons they hold in the summer. The centre is always trying to expand and offer more and more to its customers. So all the budding Kelly Slaters out there will be able to boast that they learnt how to surf on their Devonshire holiday and the great Croyde Bay surfing school.
http://www.surfingcroydebay.co.uk
9. Fish and Chips in Squires
Everyone has had fish and chips when staying in a seaside resort, but you will be hard pushed to find a better one than from Squires Fish Restaurant in Braunton. Just outside of Barnstaple, the restaurant was opened in 1969 and offers both eating in and take away facilities. It’s not just my opinion of their quality, Squires have been awarded the South West Fish and Chip shop of the year in both 1989 and 1992, and also have been included in Stein’s Seafood lovers guide.
Insider Tip: As good as the fish and chips are, I highly recommend the whole chicken breast burgers topped with cheese and mushrooms. They are out of this world.
10. Stay in a John Fowlers Holiday Park
Like most areas in the UK, there is plenty of accommodation options for visitors to the area. But if you are staying with your family then I can think of no better places to stay than one of John Fowler’s Holiday Parks. The company has parks throughout Devon, Cornwall and Somerset and provide great entertainment and value for staying in the area. The parks are usually placed in great locations that will allow you to visit all the local attractions. For example the Holiday Park in Ilfracombe, is within a short travelling distance from Woolacombe, Barnstaple, Braunton and Combe Martin.
http://www.johnfowlerholidays.com/
11. Lynton and Lynmouth
These two villages are extremely picturesque and need to be seen to be believed. Lynton sits on stop of a cliff that over looks Lynmouth and you can travel between the two by an amazing cliff railway, which for a small fee not only is a great transport option but also gives you great views as you are taken up.
Both villages are home to accommodation, shops restaurants and there are even tennis courts and bowling greens if you fancy a go.
12. Clovelly
Continuing the theme of beautiful villages is Clovelly. Set into a steep hill, this famous village is privately owned and has been kept in the same family since 1978. Great care is taken in preserving the look and feel off the village so a small entry fee is required and this helps the up keep.
Traffic is banned from the small cobbled high street and you will be transported back into time while taking a casual stroll.
http://www.clovelly.co.uk/
13. Have a Chinese meal in Fullams Restaurant
This recently refurbished restaurant is one of the best culinary establishments in the area. Everyone I know loves the amazing food they serve and the place even boasts some celebrity fans including the Jackons who visited during their brief stay in the area.
http://www.fullamrestaurant.com/
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March 26th, 2009 admin
The Peak District
The Peak District is the big daddy of all National Parks. The Peaks were the very first area in England to be give National Park status in 1951. Since then the park has gone on to be the most popular National Park in Britain with 22 million visitors each year. The Peak District is not only the most popular park in Britain, its massive visitor numbers makes it the second most visited park in the world, second only to Mount Fuji National Park in Japan.
Lake District
The picturesque Lake District is well known for its peaceful and tranquil lakes and high climbable peaks. The park is not surprisingly hugely popular with tourist with an estimated 14 million visitors each year. While the majority of these visitors are from Britain the park is popular with the Japanese who flock to the area to see the home of Beatrix Potter.
Snowdonia
The third of the National park to be created in 1951 Snowdonia is also the third most visited park with 6 million people visiting each year. The start attraction is of course Mount Snowdon itself, the highest mountain in England and Wales. There is however much more to Snowdonia than just its mountain.
Dartmoor
The ancient and sometimes spooky Dartmoor is well known for its high stone tors and wild moor land. The park is hugely popular with visitors as it can offer beautiful scenery, ancient landmarks and plenty of myths and legends.
Pembrokeshire
Pembrokeshire National Park is unique among the parks in England and Wales as it’s the only coastal park. Though there is plenty of inland countryside within the National Park boundaries, Pembrokeshire is predominantly coastal. Its stretch of coastline is often regarded as some of the most beautiful in the country, so it’s hardly surprising that so many people come here when they are taking a short break Wales.
North York Moors
The North York Moors lies in the hugely popular area of North Yorkshire. The North York Moors has a huge expanse of beautiful heather strewn moorland which really makes for some beautiful sights.
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March 25th, 2009 admin
The county of Cornwall has a rich historical reputation, with over 5,000 years worth of culture and heritage to soak in at every turn. A casual stroll along a beach, coastal path or the moors will show the awesome array of historical monuments from different periods of time. To come across features from the Bronze age, Iron age and Victorian times in the same day isn’t as unlikely as you’d think! This is something that we will go through in a latter article, below we will go through some of the finest gardens to visit on your North Cornwall Holiday.
Glendurgan Gardens
The picturesque setting of the Glendurgan Gardens is based around a sheltered wooden valley, next to the gorgeous Helford estuary and really has to be seen to be believed! Well known for being one of the finest subtropical grounds in the South West of England, Glendurgan is home to some fantastic exotic trees, plants and flowers. Opened in 1820 by Alfred Fox the gardens were private until the national trust took on the project in the 1960’s.
Trebah Gardens
Yet another awesome sub-tropical garden based within the Cornish borders! Based over a massive 25 acre plot the gardens feature specialist water gardens and water falls. Some of the more popular points are the 18ft rhubarb, ancient trees and a 2 acre dale of Hydrangeas that lead down to a privately owned beach. A play area is provided for the young ones with a coffee shop and plant shop available for people who want to sit down.
Trengwainton Gardens
Looking for a warm place to go whilst away on your Cornish holiday? The Trengwainton gardens are protected by cold winters thanks to the warming influences of the Gulf Stream next to Lands End. This part of the country is fortunate with the climate meaning that even if you are visiting in the colder months you should still be fairly warm. Thanks to this the gardens can create an environment able to grow a large variety of plants and trees that can’t be seen anywhere else in England!
Trelissick Gardens
The Trelissick estate is one of tranquil splendour with truly mind blowing views. Famous in Cornwall for its exotic flowers and shrubs, the gardens encompass an amazing 500 acres of woods and parkland meaning that you can easily visit a few times and see something new. The house on the Trelissick estate is closed but art fans will be pleased to learn that a gallery is available as well as a shop, restaurant and Georgian stable block.
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March 25th, 2009 admin
One of the best places to visit when on a Northumbrian Short Break is the stunning coastline the county offers.
The majority of Northumberland’s coastline has been designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The County’s picturesque coast is well known for its long stretches of clean and sandy beaches that are home to hidden coves and secluded bays. The stunning coastline stretches for forty miles from Amble to Berwick and has many small coastal villages dotted along that include Embleton, Boulmer and Beadnell.
Venturing off the coastline and into the sea are the Farne Islands, that lie between the villages of Seahouses and Bamburgh. Nature and Wildlife lovers will enjoy seeing the wide variety of seabirds and the grey seals that habitat the islands and the surrounding sea. Access to the islands is provided by boat that makes trips all year round, but you may find that it is better to visit between May and July which is when you will be able to see breeding sea birds in large numbers.
Another island that maybe of interest is Holy Island which is sometimes know as Lindisfarne which is its Celtic name. This Island is famous for being a seat of 7th Century Christian Learning. Holy Island is only accessible by a three mile causeway at low tide and gets cut off twice a day by the tide. Visitors to the island will be treated to a busy harbour, inns and shops that are maintained by a thriving local community. Attractions on the island include a Heritage Centre, Winery, Tudor Castle and a priory. Holy Island is also another great destination for bird lovers as it is a hot spot for bird watchers.
Northumberland Coast is perfect for anyone interested in history as it has been the setting of a turbulent past and home to many spectacular castles that look over the North Sea. One of the best is Bamburgh Castle that has been called the finest castle in England today.
So next time you are staying in one of the many Northumbria Cottages in the region then you should make sure you visit the Northumberland Coast and it’s picturesque islands for a great day out.
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March 24th, 2009 admin
The Scottish Borders covers about eighteen hundred square miles and stretches from the moor lands and hills in the west to the eastern agricultural fields then on to Berwickshire rocky coastline with its quaint fishing villages and intriguing coves. The borders are one of the 32 local government council areas that make up Scotland. The area borders, Dumfries and Galloway, Lanarkshire, Lothian, Edinburgh and Midlothian in Scotland and Northumberland and Cumbria in England.
The residents of the Scottish Borders are extremely proud of the history and heritage and refer to themselves as Borderers.
Staying in a Scottish Borders Cottage is something you can enjoy whatever the season. The spring months offer fresh growth in the forest and valleys of the area. The summer offers longer warmer and brighter days where you can relax in your picturesque accommodation. Autumn turns the shades of the border mellow and adds tints of purple and mauve to the moor land. Staying in the region during the winter will expose you to the early morning mists and the majestic snow capped hills. Which ever season you chose to pay the Scottish borders a visit will bring a unique take on the untouched natural beauty of the area.
The Scottish borders have a romantic history that means there are castles, abbeys, mansions and ruins to explore, dotted throughout the countryside. Whatever you like to do on your UK based holidays, the Scottish borders will have something to offer. There are plenty of gardens and parks to visit. Stately homes, castles and gardens take care of any botanical lovers needs.
The stunning gardens and parks in the region offer individual distinctive charms and some of them have even won national floral awards such as “Beautiful Scotland in Bloom” and “Beautiful Britain in Bloom”.
So whatever time of year you decide to stay in a cottage in the Scottish borders you will be taken back by the stunning beauty that the region has to offer.
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March 24th, 2009 admin
Once you have found your Isle of Wight Hotel and are ready to begin your holiday you just need to decide what you are going to do. An Isle of Wight holiday has so much to offer every one of all ages. Depending on what time of year you visit will really change you perception and experience of the Isle of Wight. The Island provides a great place to holiday no matter what time of the year you are looking to visit. Whit many attractions and sights to see there will be nothing to stop you enjoying yourself, not even your age. The Island caters for all ages from the very young to the more elderly; this is why the Island is so popular with families.
The Isle of Wight offers a full range of attractions and with such a broad range it is a good idea to do some research before you go, so you don’t spend your holiday deciding on what attractions to visit. This article will highlight a few of the popular attractions on the island and give you a little bit more information about what to expect.
1.The Isle of Wight Zoo
This is a popular choice with people of all ages. With a wide range of animals on offer like, tigers, monkeys and reptiles you are bound to learn something new. The zoo also offers the opportunity to adopt some of the creature, if you find there is anything that you find particularly adorable. The zoo also offers presentation times scheduled through out the day so you can learn about the animals that live at the zoo.
2. Isle of Wight Natural History Centre
Located in Godshill the Natural History Centre is a beautiful 17th century Squires cottage. Opened in 1965 by the BBC, the entrance is home to a pond of Koi carp and features wonderful display fountains. The centre also offers shells and fossils found both locally and further a field. With lots of information about the various shells on display as well stuffed animals and an aquarium the centre offers something for everyone no matted of age.
3. Ideal Walking Destination
Many things attract people to the Isle of Wight each year and one of which is not a man made attraction. Thousands of people flock to the island each year to explore the footpaths that stretch across the island. With more than half of the island recognized as areas of outstanding beauty people flock to the island and embrace what’s on offer. The entire island is generously covered with designated footpaths allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the outstanding natural elements that make up the island.
4. Fakenham Farm
Situated in St Helens Fakenham farm is a popular choice no matter what the weather is doing. The farm plays home to a whole host of animals including: Cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, chickens, ponies, turkeys and emus as well as an onsite café and disabled access available for all of those who might need it.
With a whole host of things to see and do on the Isle of Wight for all ages and abilities you are more than likely to find something that will suit you down to the ground.
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March 23rd, 2009 admin
Yorkshire is a fantastic place for your next holiday; in fact it recently came top of a poll by the guardian to find the UK’s favourite holiday destination. Despite this some people still do not realise how much the area has to offer. With the economy and the value of the pound down, foreign holidays are becoming more and more expensive. That’s why this year people are looking a bit closer to home for a coast affective yet special holiday.
North Yorkshire’s most popular attraction is perhaps the North York moors the Yorkshire Dales. These two National Parks are without any question stunning areas that are well worth a visit, especially for lovers of the country side. The popular seaside towns of Whitby and Scarborough can also be found in North Yorkshire. If you are planning on staying in a Whitby or Scarborough Hotel, then you will have plenty of greater accommodation to choose from.
West Yorkshire is the most populated and urbanized area of Yorkshire. Both of Yorkshires two largest cities, Leeds and Bradford are found in West Yorkshire. The city of Leeds is a must visit for anyone during there Yorkshire holidays. Leeds is quickly establishing itself as one of the top cities to visit in the UK. There are many great things to see and do, not to mention great restaurants, fantastic shops (Leeds has been dubbed the ‘Knightsbridge of the North’) and some top hotels.
South Yorkshire is Yorkshire’s gateway to the Peak District and boarders the Pennines. Sheffield is the biggest city in the area and the greenest city in Britain has so much to offer visitors. There are a number of attractions such as the Winter Gardens and Millennium Galleries. The city has a variety off different holiday accommodation on offer and has something to cater for any budget.
The eastern area of Yorkshire is dominated by the ancient city of York. Taking a trip round the city really brings the past to life, especially with the many museums and exhibitions chronicling the cities life from Roman times to the Vikings and beyond. York Minster is a must see for anyone in the area and with many other great attractions you will be kept busy on your holiday. There are many great hotels to be found in York and many more in the beautiful countryside which surrounds it.
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March 23rd, 2009 admin
The city of Truro is Cornwall’s most popular area and is a must for anyone going on a Cornish holiday for the first time. Truro is ideal for people looking to visit the finest high street shops with a gorgeous Cornish backdrop. Of course the city isn’t just full of modern conveniences with many quaint specialist shops, restaurants and stores keeping the heritage and history of the area alive. For holiday makers visiting Little Castle Street, Kenwyn Street and River Street is a must.
Interested in Truro’s history and architecture? Visit the famour High Cross Cathedral and Royal Cornwall Museum for more information on the county of Cornwall’s energetic past.A nice and relaxing place to find in the hustle and bustle of a city can sometimes be hard to find but if you are looking for a place to get a little time out then perhaps visit some of the local parks? Victoria Gardens was designed to commemorate the diamond jubilee for Queen Victoria. Featuring a bandstand, fountain and amazing flower displays this park is an ideal place to collect your thoughts.
The city of Truro has an exciting reputation for a large variety of art, music and theatre events going on all year round. Staying at some local Cornwall accommodation? Buy some local produce from the Truro farmers market, the products available are of an amazing quality whether you are purchasing food, jewellery, flowers or other gifts. All in all if you are looking for a Great British holiday, Tresco ticks all the boxes so book your holiday today!
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March 23rd, 2009 admin
Interested in extreme sports, music and looking for an excuse to get away on a Cornish holiday this year? The Relentless Boardmasters Festival could be for you! Europe’s largest extreme sports and music festival will be looking to improve on an excellent 2008 where Groove Armada, Chris Moyles and The Pigeon Detectives headlined in the gorgeous Cornwall backdrop.
The music festival kicks off on the 7th of August with popular garage/pop act The Streets set to headline, with over 12,000 people expected! Unfortunately at the moment we don’t know who else will be playing (although approximately 60 bands are expected) I’m sure closer to the time you will be able to find out more at http://www.relentlessboardmasters.com
More interested in the skating side of the festival? The 6th of August see’s the kick off for this part of the festival. Based at the Fiscal Beach the Vert ramp and Street skating competitions will provide great excitement and enjoyment for both skaters and viewers. Some of Britain’s finest skaters take part in these competitions so be sure to check it out!
Looking for something a bit more chilled? The beach bar has helped a large variety of musical acts in allsorts of genres to explode into their respective scenes. Acts like Seth Lakeman, Seasick Steve, Newton Faulkner, Pigeon Detectives, Enter Shikari and many more have played here and gone on to massive careers. The marquee is an ideal place to check out the next great band and with a capacity of approximately 1,000 expect a fairly intimate set.
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March 23rd, 2009 admin
Liverpool
While the city may have lost its title as European Capital of Culture there is still so much going on in the Merseyside city. Long gone are the days when Liverpool were famous for shell suites and having your wheels stolen. The city has undergone a multi million pond makeover and now the city has a thoroughly modern and cosmopolitan feel. The city has plenty of accommodation for visitors, from traditional B&B’s to modern Boutique hotels.
Manchester
Manchester is another city that has left a less than favourable image behind it. The city has spent billions of regeneration over many years to make itself the so called capital of the north. Its new status as a world class city was sealed when it hosted the hugely popular Commonwealth Games in 2002. Manchester has a growing number of first class hotels that will suite any taste and budget.
Bath
England’s only World Heritage City, Bath has a wealth of historical architecture that would be the envy of many cities in the world. The star attraction of the city is its famous Roman baths, where many of the remains can still be seen today. You can even bathe and drink from the very same thermal spring which still flows through the city. There is plenty of great Bath accommodation on offer in the city and the pretty surrounding countryside.
Cardiff
The Capital of Wales, Cardiff, is quickly establishing itself as a top city break destination. The new bay area has been playing a pivotal role in TV shows such as Doctor Who and Torch Wood which have only added to the popularity of the city. Cardiff is lucky enough to enjoy great access to the rest of Wales, allowing you to be surrounded by the beautiful Welsh countryside within a couple of hours. The city has great transport links and a variety of accommodation.
London
For along time London has been one of the top City breaks in the world and it’s easy to see why. London is a city unlike any other in Britain, or even the world. The place just has a unique feel to it, made up of its history, diversity, style, culture and life. The Capital offers you so many things to see and do that you could keep coming back again and again and still experience only a small part of what London has to offer. The city has some of the finest hotels and accommodation anywhere in the world. Don’t worry though not all the hotels are 5 start a-list accommodation, there is plenty of great cheaper hotels on offer.
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