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April 24th, 2009 admin
When a lot of people think about going on their holidays they probably look to book a hotel without even seriously considering their options, such as staying in a b&b. What these people don’t realise however is that they could well be missing out by not staying in bed and Breakfast in Bath.
One of the great advantages of staying in a b&b is the personal touch. Often when you check into the b&b the person you are greeted by is the same person who will be making your breakfasts, attending to any questions and checking you out again at the end of your holiday. Its is rare to have this experience in a hotel as there are so many different members of staff it becomes hard to have a personable relationship with the place you are staying in. Seeing the same person day in and out gives a much more friendly atmosphere and a home away from home feel.
If your are good at planning a head of time then you may well already know which sights and sounds of Bath you are going to visit, if however you tend to just go with the flow and decide when you get there then your b&b may just be able to help you. Quite often the b&b owners and staff are very knowledgeable about not only the local area but they know a great deal about all the very best attractions for tourists, and maybe even one or two well kept secrets. Even if you do have your days planned it may well be worth chatting to your hosts and see if they have any more suggestions or any hints and tips about the attractions your are wanting to see.
There are so many fine restaurants and eateries in Bath that it would be a great shame not to visits them during your holiday in Bath. Staying in a b&b gives you great freedom of what and where you eat as only your breakfast is provided for. This is also a great for people who have specific dietary requirements as they don’t have to pay for food them might not even be able to eat.
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April 22nd, 2009 admin
There are many events that draw many people to Cornwall over the year other than Cottage Holidays and Cornish pasties. The month of May welcomes the start of a few of these popular events. This article highlights three main events that should not be missed when visiting on a Cornwall Holiday Cottage in May.
May the 2nd and 3rd sees the event known as ‘Giant Bolster Weekend’. Bolster was a giant that used to reside in the Parish of St. Agnes. Like most Cornish giants, he was a bad tempered, self centered man who was considered the bane of the villager’s life. So each year to celebrate the rise (but more so the fall) of the Giant Bolster a procession starting with a lantern and a torch march through the village to the top of the top of St. Agnes Beacon and then a large bonfire and barbeque take place in celebration of his demise.
The Run to the Sun Festival is a popular choice for thousands of tourists each year. Happening between the 22nd and the 25th of May this Newquay attraction is one that is not to be missed. Offering a variety of entertainment, from world class DJ’s, live bands as well as a range of comedians the variation of events offers something for everyone. Steeped with great places to stay and the option to camp near by the events there is an option for people on all levels of budgets. Each year is usually better than the last which is normally a tough thing to achieve, but somehow it is managed.
29th and 30th May welcomes the return of the St Ives Beer Festival. Orqinised by the Cornwall CAMRA (campaign for more real ale) the festival brings many breweries to the area and allows the locals to try various real ale brands. Offering around 170 different real ales as well as 40 ciders or more and a whole host of ginger ales and wines, the event is usually a massive success. This is a great way to try a different variety of ales that aren’t usually available in small and large chain pubs. This year the festival is held in the St Ives Guildhall open from 11am to 11pm and entrance is £3.50 which includes a festival glass and a program.
Only three great reasons to visit Cornwall in the month of May but there are many more on offer. If you are looking for something a little quieter then just head down for a scenic walk and admire the wonderful scenery that is associated with the Cornish countryside.
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April 21st, 2009 admin
Cheddar Gorge
The striking Cheddar Gorge is the largest gorge in the whole of the UK and has the tallest non-costal limestone cliff in England. The oldest complete human skeleton in Britain was found in the gorge and is believed to be 9,000 years old. There are a number of attractions in cheddar designed to appeal to people of all ages, these included open top bus tours, exhibitions, museums, walks, caves and quests.
The Jane Austen centre
The Jane Austen center may not be everyone’s cup of tea but for any fans of one of literatures greatest ever writers this is a must see. The exhibition examines her life in Bath and how the city has influenced her and her writing. Her love of the city is reflected in her novels with both Northanger Abbey and Persuasion largely set in the city.
Glastonbury Abbey
Glastonbury Abbey is one of the oldest and most powerful of the ancient abbeys in England. The site (as has the whole of Glastonbury) has long been seen as a special place and has played an important role for centuries. One of the most famous stories of the abbey is that it is supposedly the burial site of King Arthur and Queen Guinevere’s, when in 1191 a grave was discovered carrying the description ‘Hic jacet sepultus inclitus rex Arthurus in insula Avalonia’ which translated means “Here lies interred the famous King Arthur on the Isle of Avalon”.
The Wildlife Park at Cricket St Thomas
Cricket St Thomas and its wildlife park is one of the top wildlife parks in the South West. Set in the beautiful grounds of the large Country Manor the Wildlife Park aims to help protect the world’s natural heritage while educating members of the public more about the fascinating animals that call the park home. The habitats are designed to be as natural to the animals as possible.
If you are one of the many thousands who will be heading for Short Breaks in Bath this summer then with these and so many more activities on offer will make sure you a truly memorable holiday.
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April 20th, 2009 admin
The Cotswolds is a glorious area of England that draws people from across the country and the world. The Cotswold’s is so highly regarded that it is designated an AONB (area of outstanding natural beauty) for its green and rolling hills and pretty towns and villages. The area is very much in the style of old England with fantastic grand houses and churches (often built from the uniquely coloured Cotswold stone) and old cottages that wouldn’t look out of place in a period drama. This certainly adds to the charm and character of the area which so endears people who visit.
There are a number of cities, towns and villages in the Cotswolds, each with there own distinctive charm. The largest of the cities is Bath which is often regarded as one of the finest cities in Britain, its no wonder then that so many people choose to holiday in Bath. The city has so much to offer; from the stunning architecture to the historic Roman Baths, there is plenty to fill your holiday with. There are also plenty more great things to see and do in the surrounding countryside.
The city has a number of great restaurants to enjoy a romantic night out or a good family meal. In the Cotswolds you will find even more great restaurants, many of which will be using the very best of fresh local produce. There are also many great places to stay. There is plenty of fantastic Bath accommodation, many of which are found in some of great building the city has to offer. Many of these hotels are not only great for exploring the city but are ideal bases to explore the wider Cotswolds area too.
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April 17th, 2009 admin
Bath is a hugely popular city, attracting visitors from across the county as well as the wider world. There is so much to the city, from its historical sites to its music festivals, that there is more than enough to keep visitors entertained during their Short Breaks in Bath. If you are planning on staying in a fine Bath hotel or one of the many other great forms of accommodation in the Bath then here are 10 facts your might wish to know about this beautiful city.
- Bath is England’s only World Heritage city
- Bath is home to a natural thermal spring which transformed Bath into the city it is today
- Bath lies in the mouth of what was once a volcano
- The city has attracted a number of great writer including Jane Austen and John Oliver who both lived in the city
- Each Christmas Bath holds a Christmas market outside of the beautiful Bath Abbey
- The Roman baths have been voted as Britain’s favourite Roman remains
- An International Music Festival take place in the city every May
- Hollywood films such as Vanity Fair have been shot in the city
- Every June the city hold the Bath Fringe Festival
- The Cities Victoria Park was named after the young Princess, who would one day be one of the greatest British Monarch’s, to celebrate her visit to the city.
There is of course much more to this city than these 10 facts. One of the best ways to find out more is to simply explore the city for your self. Just a short walk around the city and you will be finding beautiful gardens, grand architecture, top class restaurants, great bars and so much more besides.
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April 17th, 2009 admin
Woolacombe
Woolacombe can offer almost 3 miles of golden sandy beach, making it one of the most popular in Devon. The beach is hugely popular with families and has one numerous awards. The North Devon village of Woolacombe has a number of places to eat and drink and plenty of shops to by all the essentials you will need for the beach. They also provide a whole range of accommodation. The beach is great for surfing and the local surfing school will teach you all the basics so that you can be riding the waves in no time.
Dawlish Warren
On the south Devon coast Dawlish Warren is another firm family favourite. Just outside of Teignbridge and a short drive from Exeter Dawlish Warren is well connected to the rest of south and east Devon. Dawlish has won an amazing 9 blue flags and has an internationally recognized nature reserve as well as some unique sand dunes.
Broadsands
Broadsands is located in a pretty rural idyll and has a large stretch of red sand. The beach is very popular with families, especially with those who want to keep well away from the amusement arcades. The surrounding area also provides some great and scenic costal walks. The beach is close to Paignton which offers a number of attractions, hotels, b&b’s and Paignton Caravans.
Bigbury-on-Sea
Bigbury-on-sea lies in the popular South Hams area of Devon. The large expanse of sand connects Bigbury to Burgh Island which lays just 200 yards from the shore. The Island and its hotel has played host to a number of famous faces over the years including Agatha Christie, Edward and Mrs. Simpson, the Beatles, Noel Coward and Winston Churchill and President Eisenhower.
Oddicombe
Oddicombe beach is found at the bottom of beautiful red sandstone cliffs. This little sheltered haven is great for those who are looking for a nice relaxing day with a deck chair and a good book. If though during the day you find yourself too relaxed there are some water sports available from the beach. At the top of the cliffs you can enjoy the stunning views of the bay and for a relaxing way to enjoy them you can take the cliff railway from the beach to the cliff tops. The beach is close to Torquay town centre, numerous attractions and Torquay holiday parks and hotels.
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April 15th, 2009 admin
So you are planning to treat your partner to a romantic weekend away, you have already booked a Northumbria Cottage which will provide the setting for your break, what else can you add to the mix. Well there is a company based in Northumbria called “Pride of Northumbria” that specialise in creating luxury hampers from produce and ingredients sourced from Northumbria. Why not order one of these indulgent hampers to provide some treats for your weekend stay.
At the entry range, the company has a £25 hamper that includes locally sourced and made shortbread biscuits, chocolates, porcelain mug, fruit cake, fudge, preserves and chilli sauce. The other end of the scale is the company’s top of the range hamper at £460. This hamper includes such treats as rum, mead, wine, brandy, beers, gherkins, nuts, coffee, marmalade, relish, honey, cake, salmon, kippers, muesli, oatmeal, cheese, soup, meatballs, sausages, mushrooms and much more. This may seem slightly extravagant for a weekend break, but it shows the large range of products the company can include in your hamper.
As well as food hampers, the company also sells spa hampers. Pride of Northumbria now sells a line of bespoke Aromatherapy spa hampers that have been created with the help of a qualified and professional beautician and aromatherpist. Just like the food hampers, these spa hampers have been made with the finest ingredients and can be tailor made to suit health and skin requirements. The selections include products such as body scrubs, soaps and luxury candles. Top of the range hampers will also come with a robe and slippers to make your experience even more special. Once you have made your choice, your selection will be hand wrapped and sent to your Northumberland cottage by courier.
These luxury hampers can either be ordered, by calling the company, ordering through their website or visiting their shop.
For more information on the luxury hampers click here
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April 14th, 2009 admin
Bryher
Bryher is the smallest of the inhabited islands of Scilly. Despite its small size the island manages to capture wild rugged beauty will offering a tranquil relaxing environment.
While on the island you should head to Hell Bay where the Atlantic sends jets of sea spray up into the air. For a more gentle shore head down to Rushy Bay where the sea laps at white sand. If you want to venture on to the seas yourself Green Bay is the place for you as the surrounding seas barely see a ripple, which is great for rowing boats and kayaks. The giant stacks are another natural marvel which shouldn’t be missed on the island.
St. Agnes
St. Agnes is one of the most southwesterly inhabited places in the whole of the UK. To the westerside of this small island rock crags jut out into the Atlantic Ocean while to the east you can view one of the finest sunset anywhere in Britain. The villages in the centre of the island can easily be described as chocolate box, which is appropriate as they produce there own chocolate as well as home made ice-cream.
St. Martins
St. Martins proudly boast so of the best white sandy beaches and crystal clear blue waters anywhere in the UK or northern Europe for that matter. Despite being just 2 miles wide the islands manages to offer diverse landscapes. In the north rugged sea cliffs great the Atlantic toped with purple heather. To the south expansive sand and rock pools await visitors when the tide goes out. Across the island can be found numerous beaches, often with almost Caribbean-esque white sand, quite coves and scenic costal paths. The island will off you plenty of great things to see and do while on your Scilly Island holiday. There are also a number of great restaurants on the island, many of which offer fresh local produce and fresh fish caught just a short distance from the restaurant itself.
St. Mary’s
Often regarded as the hub of the islands St. Mary’s offer links to the main land allowing you to sail or fly to the Isles of Scilly. Though the capital of the island, Hugh Town, is little more than a village in size, it has a number of facilities found in any town across the land such as banks, post offices, health center and a whole range of shops. The towns harbour experiences the Scilly islands equivalent of rush hour as people gather each morning to catch the ferries linking to the other Scilly islands.
The island has a wealth of stunning countryside ranging from woodland, marshland, heath land and sand dunes covered in African wild flowers. To full experience the scenery you can take a walk along 30 miles of paths that you will find along the coast and criss crossing the island. While traveling acroos the island you may come across some of its ancient monuments, such as burial mounds, megalthic village and civill war fortifications.
Tresco
Tresco is alive with colour thanks to the abundance of flowers grown at the Abbey Garden, often described as ‘Kew with the roof off’. Thanks to the island location many species of plant that grow and flourish here can not be grown anywhere else in Britain, making the island feel very exotic. There are numerous other attraction to the island with castles, bronze age tombs, museums and much , much more.
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April 14th, 2009 admin
One of the best activities for people staying in Northumbria Cottages is to explore one of the UK’s best natural wonders, the Northumberland National Park.
The National Park in Northumberland is one of the most tranquil places in England. When you visit, you will be greeted by spectacular hills and magnificent valleys that cross the county from the Scottish border to Hadrian’s wall.
April is a great month to visit the Northumberland National park as there are some treats to look out for while you explore the natural beauty.
In the Cottage Valley, Simonside and Coquetdale you may see a black grouse, which is a treat for both bird watchers and nature lovers.
Other birds you should look out for are willow warblers, whinchats and tree pipits in around the Otterburn area. April is a good time to spot birds of prey such as buzzars and peregrine falcons.
To see the Curlewred squirrel and roe deer fawns, you should head to the National Parks Conifer forests that feature in Simonside, Harwood and Wark.
No matter what area of the park you are visiting, you should be able to spot dippers and otters in the lakes and rivers that are spread through the park.
To make the most of the National Park and to make sure you spot all the best wildlife, why not talk to one of the Park’s rangers and ask about one of their suggested walks. Talking to the rangers is a great way to gauge whether a certain walk will be suitable for beginners or for more experienced walkers. There are plenty of self guided walks you can take that will give you information and things to look out for while traversing the routes.
So if you are on Holiday in Northumbria and staying in Northumberland Accommodation, why not pay the Northumberland National Park a visit. Whether you are a nature lover and want to spot some birds of prey or just want to stretch your legs and see Hadrian’s wall there is something for everyone.
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April 12th, 2009 admin
Devon has become a very popular area for tourism as well as those looking for a second home. Yet among all the people that visit such areas as Barnstable and Woolacombe very few of them are aware of the history and legends that surround the area. With North Devon being an area steeped in history, myths and legends there are many tales to tell. You don’t have to be in a Hotel in North Devon to find out more about it, but it would be a great idea if you wanted to explore the area. There are many popular tales about the area that have stood the test of time and this article will address just a small selection of them.
One such tale is that of the vanishing castle, which is said to have been located on the ‘Valley of Rocks’ in Lynton. The Legend claims that there once stood a castle on the rocks overlooking the sea. Once owned by Earl Sigvald the castle was passed on to his daughter upon his death. His daughter began a relationship with a man known only as the ‘Blank Monk’ the monk then began living with the Lady. It became clear to people of the area that they had both chose to live a life without religion. One day a monk arrived at the door preaching to them the word of god, and in an outrage they chose to hear no more. The black monk threw off his disguise and pushed the visiting monk off of the cliff. The black monk who was now clearly recognizable as the Devil clutched the lady and took off to the skies. The ground then opened up and swallowed the castle leaving nothing behind.
The Hairy Hands of Dartmoor is perhaps a more famous story. The tale indicates that ‘Hairy Hands’ have been seen to grasp the steering wheel and handle bars of bikes forcing motorists off the road and making them crash. The first reported incident occurred in the 1920s when it was reported a motorcyclist whom worked as a prison guard was on his way home with his children in the sidecar, when the hands appeared on the handle bars. The man wrestled with the hands but to no avail and they drove him off the road. The driver was killed but his children survived and they reported seeing the hands and hearing their father scream ‘GET THEM OFF!’ A similar fate awaited another motorcyclist a few years later. If visiting the area of Postbridge or Princetown is might be worth while taking care.
Another famous tale is that of ‘Wronged Lady’, it is claimed that each night upon the entrance of Fitzford House the doors open and out emerges a black dog with fierce red eyes leading a chilling sight. A horse-drawn carriage follows and is said to be made of bones, that is driven by a headless coachman. In the back sits a ghostly white lady and they begin their trip to Okehampton Castle. Once reaching the castle the hound picks just one blade of grass and makes the journey home. It is said that the lady may only rest once the grass mound from which the grass is taken is free of grass. The hardship comes as she is said to be wronged due to her father’s behavior and how the townsfolk came to despise her because of this. Among her father’s behavior and four failed marriages, the untimely death of her young son, and her own death a month later she seemed fated to be surrounded in rumors. With a mix of tales, stories and perhaps an element of fabrication this could be one ghost story with good grounds and an amount of imagination.
There are many more stories that surround the Devon area and many locations that are home to these tales. If looking for North Devon Accommodation to explore what Devon has to offer then try a Woolacombe Hotel and do some ghost hunting of your own.
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