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June 24th, 2009 admin
Thereare many things that symbolise the UK in modern culture and you only need to look around and it becomes clear that trends can impact many elements of culture. Take for example Chelsea. This is a stunning part of the country that can easily be identified with the Chelsea flower show.
The Chelsea Flower Show is an event that boasts the best of British horticulture and is an event that is graced by television personalities and celebrities alike. The show which is held each year in May is situated in the grounds of the Royal Hospital in Chelsea. It runs for 5 days and is perhaps consider the most famous garden event in the world. The first Royal Horticultural Society Great Spring Show was held in 1862 and was held in the RHS garden in Kensington. The show is attended by 157,000 visitors each year; this is limited to a maximum capacity. The show is extensively covered by the BBC each year and provides highlights and further information on the BBC website.
Chelsea of course is also famous for its substantially successful football club. The club has had its ups and downs over the years, much like any other club, but they have most of their time in the top tier of professional football. They have won the Premier League, The League Cup and also the Champions League. The team can traditionally be seen sporting the Royal Blue football strip as this reflects their clubs colours. To see Chelsea play at the home venue a trip to Stamford Bridge will be required. The ground was officially opened in 1877 and for the first 28 years was primarily used by the London Athletics club as a venue for meetings. The club has also released a song called ‘Blue is the Colour’ and was released in 1972 in the build up to the start of the League Cup Final which featured all of Chelsea’s first team squad singing. The single peaked at number 5 in the UK singles chart.
This highlights just two things that the area of Chelsea is recognised for. If you want to see what else is on offer in the area or want to explore further then why not rent property in Chelsea and experience first hand what this cultural part of Britain has to offer?
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June 24th, 2009 admin
Previously known as North Hamm Tun back in 914, Historians believe this was to distinguish itself from Southampton.
Northampton was known as a place of trade and where craftsman worked and where goods were brought and sold at a market. Northampton was captured and burned by the Danes in 1010, however it recovered and continues to this day to grow, its current population stands at around 189,477 this makes Northampton the 21st largest Settlement in England.
Northampton begun a regeneration programme to try and increase population and encourage settlement especially Londoners to try and boost business investment and to secure and establish the future of Northampton. The building and regeneration has been ongoing for many years with new districts and Industrial estates to attract new industries to Northampton. Today the main industries comprise of financial services, soft drinks, cosmetics and brewing.
Northampton has a rapidly growing population due to resources and investments the city continues to make in the younger generation and local business. With many now opting for further education youngsters have a range of options open to them from the University of Northampton to Full & Part time courses available from the College in Northampton. Partnerships have also been established with the Council for Ethnic Minority Communities, the Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce and other bodies to provide targeted initiatives for local needs.
With Investments in the younger generation and the business industry The Regeneration of Northampton is an ongoing development with a mission to develop the town so that it’s a place where people will choose to live and future business will want to invest.
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June 24th, 2009 admin
With the economic downturn showing no signs of letting up more and more holiday makers are choosing to holiday in the UK. The UK has now become the preferred option when taking a short break or a week away with the kids. More holiday makers are choosing to holiday in Wales and Cornwall and with Attractions and accommodation to suit all who can blame them
So what does Britain have to offer?
Wales
There are many places to visit in Wales, whether you are looking for that self catering Cottage or hotel accommodation Wales has something for everyone. There is a wide variety of activities to enjoy in Wales why not try Climbing in Mount Snowdon and take in the breath taking views, this is always a popular choice for walkers. If walking is not for you and you want something a little more relaxing then why not take a break on the coast line of Barafundle bay in Pembrokeshire it’s been rated one of Britain’s best beaches. Relax and enjoy all the benefits of being on the beach abroad, only no flight delays or queues at the airport.
If you like the more traditional sight seeing holidays and taking in the history and culture then Wales will not disappoint they are many castles and cathedrals and little towns jammed packed full of history. With activities for all ages Wales makes an ideal destination.
Cornwall
Cornwall has been a popular holiday destination for many many years with tourists returning year after year. With stunning views and great beaches its perfect for all ages. With something to suit all budgets whether it camping or hotels or even self catering cottages Wadebridge based or even a holiday park in Perranporth, Cornwall has it all, and there is something to keep even the moodiest of teenagers amused.
With a range of beaches and quaint towns you will not be disappointed. Why not enjoy the attractions Cornwall has to offer including gardens, theme parks historic houses and more with Cornwall beaches keeping tourists returning with beach towns and resorts such as Perranporth and Newquay who needs 40 degrees sunshine of spain?
Lake District
If you’re looking for adventure or something a bit cozy or romantic then the Lake District has it all, set in beautiful surroundings and a range of self Catering accommodation you will be spoilt for choice.
From Cumbria to Windermere the Lake District has over 3500 kilometers on natural beauty to roam and 16 lakes you will be surrounded by stunning views you will want to explore. If roaming is not for you then the Lake District offers you a wide range of activities from Boat trips, fell walks, historic house to activity days and fishing.
With all these activities you will be spoilt for choice, so why not visit the Lake District and start enjoying you holiday.
Scotland
Scotland is beautiful at anytime of the year, whether you are after a weekend break of a weeks retreat Scotland has something for everyone.
With a range of accommodation from hostels to self catering cottages there is something to suit any type budget. So why experience Scotland?
Scotland boasts a wide range of attractions from Zoo’s and castles museums and art galleries. If that’s not for you then why not enjoy a stroll or coastal walk trekking along Scotland’s finest moors and mountains take in the stunning scenery and breath taking views and blow out those cobwebs.
With tour options available why not take in the sights if neighboring Edinburgh and Glasgow and really make the most of you time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
So with attractions like these is it any wonder we are opting to stay in England for our holidays??
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June 21st, 2009 admin
Northumberland Holidays would not be complete without a trip to Northumberland National Park. Here we will give you a little taste of what you could enjoy on a trip to this unspoilt landscape.
Most of us are not lucky enough to be able to experience the National Park from the door of our Northumbria Cottages, although some holiday lets are available. For most of us we will be arriving by car and our first priority should be to get out that tin box and into the great outdoors. Northumberland National Park has many open access areas and walkers and cyclists can enjoy the sense of space and freedom that only Northumberland can supply. Cyclists in particular will be able to take advantage of the Pennine Cycleway and Reivers Cycle Route. These excellent trails provide a suitable challenge to all levels of cycling experience.
Whilst out on foot, hoof or pedal there is plenty of wildlife to see as the park is home to deer and is also one of the last bastions of the reclusive red squirrel. There is also a great variety of birdlife and amble opportunity for bird-watchers to get that spot of the year!
History buffs should make sure to visit Breamish Valley the site of some ancient Northumberland Accommodation. It’s here that you will find the remains of Neolithic and Bronze Age Hill Forts.
For the more adventurous there is Simonside Crags, home to arguably the best rock climbing in the country. There are several companies offering tuition in the area for those that fancy a challenge. A calmer challenge can be found on the River Tyne where salmon fishing let’s you pit your wits against one of the most wily of aquatic creatures.
2009 is the 60th Anniversary of the National Parks organisation. Why not celebrate this by finding out for yourself just how special the National Park protected countryside really is.
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June 20th, 2009 admin
The story of Northumbria’s turbulent past is best told by a visit to one of the many Castles that dominate the landscape in these parts. If you are enjoying a Northumberland Holiday why not take the time to learn how Norman life has shaped the county that lies before you now. Today we pick our three favourite castles and give you a taste of the history that awaits you.
Bamburgh Castle is perhaps the most famous castle along the Northumberland coastline and you are sure to see it featured on postcards in the area. The site, a volcanic outcrop, was first used to site a Castle in the 6th Century when it was the capital of the kingdom of Bernicia. The Norman castle was subject to a protracted siege by William II who eventually forced a surrender when Robert de Mowbray was captured and William threatened to tear out Robert’s eyes.
The castle was in a state of disrepair following the War of the Roses where it was breached by gunfire. The castle was then restored in the 19th Century.
Today’s visitor are greeted by one of the finest examples of a Norman Gatehouse in the country.
Alnwick Castle may be a little grander than your Northumberland Accommodation but it’s function is the same. Since 1309 it has been the family home of the Percy Family, Dukes of Northumberland, who developed the Castle over hundreds of years making it one of the most fortified in the Country. The Percy family were engaged in a long battle against the Scots and so were forced to expand it’s defences to the point that we see today, as it looms over the market town of Alnwick.
More recently in the 18th & 19th Century the castle was renovated into the Italian Renaissance style we see today.
Belsay Castle is very different in character to the previous two but explores another interesting facet of the story of Britain in the Middle Ages. Consisting of only a 14th Century Tower House. It features 9 foot think walls and French style angle turrets. Belsay Castle was built solely to protect it’s owner from the warfare taking part in the region and was not a base for a fighting force. Here we really do see the truth to the phrase ‘An Englishman’s home is his castle’. In the 17th Century a house was attached to the castle to form a mansion. Although the house is dwarfed by the Castle so that it appears to be a mere Northumbria Cottage in comparison!
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June 19th, 2009 admin
The Isle of Wight is often nicknamed as ‘The Garden Isle’ and today I’d like to share with you a few of the places that have helped the Island to earn it’s name. If you’re coming to the Island on holiday now is your chance to get acquainted with a few of the quiet places where you can enjoy a little bit of the tranquillity for which the Island is famed.
Isle of Wight Holidays are all about relaxation and getting away from it all. And there is no place an Englishman likes to do that more than in a well tended garden. This country has a long history of horticulture and owns much of it’s modern style and diversity to the Victorian pioneers, both plant collectors and designers alike.
If you have only the time for short breaks to the Isle of Wight then the must see garden is the Ventnor Botanic Garden. Located on the site of the Royal National Hospital for Diseases of the Chest, it first used the original layout of the hospital grounds as it’s cue for future development. The Botanic Gardens take full advantage of the mild climate it is afforded by the Ventnor under cliff to grow a range of tender species originating from the Mediterranean, New Zealand, Australia & South Africa, not often seen in the UK.
In contrast to the relaxed style of the Botanic Gardens the grounds of Osbourne House are a classic example of formal Italianate terrace gardens. No Isle of Wight holiday is complete without a trip to the former residence of Queen Victoria. Of particular interest are the statues dotted around the terraces that depict the different seasons. Other highlights include the mature trees of the pleasure grounds and the walled garden that would have provided produce for the house.
A final treat are the gardens at Morton Manor. They are recognised as one of the finest gardens in southern England and have won many awards over the past decade. Morton Manor Garden is famed for having year round colour through the use of exceptionally well planned planting. The gardens are not open all year round and visitors are advised to check in advance before setting out.
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June 18th, 2009 admin
If you’re looking for a cheap family holiday in the current economic climate then look no further than a stay at a caravan holiday. Not only is the price of accommodation cheaper but you will also save on travel costs too. Plus there will be no need to hire a car or pay for public transport at your destination because you will have your transport with you.
As it is self catering accommodation you can also save on food costs too, although you should still treat yourself to a meal out or fish & chips on the prom at least once during your stay!
Also modern holiday parks have a great range of facilities that cater for all the family. Take your pick of entertainment from swimming pools, arcades, crazy golf, ten pin bowling, indoor & outdoor play areas and for the adults pubs with live entertainment.
Staying on a holiday park also gives you total freedom, without being tied to your accommodation at certain times to go to breakfast or dinner sittings. You are able to come and go as you please and take full advantage of the surrounding area. Many holiday parks are located close to the seaside so that you can even walk to the beach and not worry about having to find and pay for parking.
It’s worth considering what you want from your caravan holiday before booking a particular site. Those looking for a quiet time away from it all should look for a smaller site. Whilst they may lack all the facilities of a large park centre they will also not have the crowds that can spoil a holiday. Conversely if you are looking for that holiday atmosphere and would like on-site entertainment for all the family then a larger park may be more suitable.
Whatever your requirements a trip to a holiday park is the best way to enjoy a cheap family holiday that doesn’t leave you bankrupt and more stressed than when you went away!
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June 18th, 2009 admin
Mid Wales and Brecon Beacons
One of the most famous towns in Mid Wales is Hay-On-Wye known as the second hand book capital of the world with an impressive 18 book shops, that four and half times as many as there are pubs. Each year the towns Hay Festival attracts the world’s literati elite. Mid Wales is also home to the beautiful Brecon Beacons National Park which is well worth a visit.
Carmarthenshire
Carmarthenshire is often referred to as the Garden of Wales and it’s easy to see why with the National Botanic Gardens, thick forests, fertile farmland and lush valleys. The area is also dotted with ancients castles such as Castell Carreg Cennen.
Swansea Bay, Mumbles, Gower, Afan & the Vale of Neath
The water front city of Swansea lays on a 5 miles sweep of the pretty Swansea Bay. Most of the cities top attractions and shops are less than a 10 minute walk from the sea front.
At the western end of the bay is the pretty village of Mumbles with its impressive medieval castle.
Furthert along the coast you will find the UK’s very first AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) the Gower Peninsular which is home to 50 bays, beaches and coves.
The Vale of Neath can boast the most spectacular waterfalls in all of Wales while the Afan Forest is home to some of the worlds finest mountain bike trails.
Glamorgan Heritage Coast
Go dinosaur hunting on the Glamorgan coast. These ancient cliffs and beaches contains more than just rock and sand, they also contain dinosaurs so watch out!
South Wales Valleys
One of the most famous features of south Wales Valleys is Caerphilly Castle which is the largest castle in Wales and the second largest in Britain after Windsor Castle. Another famous Caerphilly is the Caerphilly Cheese which is a must to try when in the area.
Cardiff
If on your short break Wales you should tire of mile after mile of beautiful country side and miss the hustle and bustle of lots of people then its time you headed to Cardiff. The capital of Wales is also its biggest city with the best night life, best shops and a whole host of other attractions that will keep coming back again and again.
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June 17th, 2009 admin
For some people the thought of staying in a caravan brings back unhappy childhood memories of rainy summer holidays trapped in a leaky caravan unable to escape the smell of the chemical toilet or the monotony of the 1000 piece jigsaw of Spaghetti Junction. Thankfully things have moved on considerably since then and those scarred by the 1970s should now seriously consider the benefits of a caravan holiday.
First we need to choose a destination, and where better to enjoy a caravan holiday than the English Riviera in Devon. There are several things to consider when choosing a Devon Holiday Park. Are you looking for a small quiet park or a bigger one with all the facilities? Are you looking for entertainment, such as a kids club or evening entertainment in the bar? Does the park have Tourist Board Rose awards?
Perhaps the biggest benefit of a caravan holiday is that they are very reasonably priced when compared to other self catering accommodation, such as holiday cottages or lodges. A caravan holiday can be even more economical if you share your accommodation with friends. Modern caravans are surprisingly spacious so there’s no danger of getting in each others way but there are plenty of opportunities to have a laugh together.
One of the big benefits of a caravan holiday is that it is self catering so you are free to come and go as you please. Modern caravans are equipped with all the creature comforts so it really will feel like a home away from home. The only limit to what you take away with you is the size of your car. But don’t worry if you’ve forgotten something because most parks have an on-site shop.
Once at the Devon Caravan Park it’s time to check out the facilities. There aren’t many holidays where all your needs are catered for right on your doorstep. It is common for holiday parks to have an extensive range of facilities including swimming pools, indoor play areas, arcades, crazy golf, pubs and restaurants. It’s always good to know that on wet days or after a day out there is something to keep the whole family entertained.
Why not make 2009 the year that you find out for yourself just how much fun you can have on a caravan holiday in Devon.
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June 13th, 2009 admin
If you’ve been working hard and fighting against the tide of a struggling economy, you probably need a holiday. There are so many options for holidays, too, but staying close to home can be a great idea, especially if you don’t have a lot of money. You probably don’t want to go alone, either, but if you’re single and/or your friends and family members can’t go along with you, what should you do? One answer is to take your dog! It might sound a bit strange, but taking your dog on a walking holiday can be something that your pet can really enjoy, and you will, too. It isn’t the same as having human companionship, but dogs aren’t called ‘man’s best friend’ for nothing. They are great companions, and people get very attached to them. It doesn’t matter if your dog is man’s best friend or woman’s best friend - it can still be fun and rewarding to take him along with you on holiday. Walking holidays are the best, because dogs love to walk along with their masters and see the sights. The great news is that there are so many places in the UK to walk - and most of them are dog-friendly, so you won’t have to live him at home.
There are also a lot of dog-friendly accommodations, so don’t feel like you have to camp out in the wilderness or take only a day trip if you bring your pet. There are cottages and hotels that will be happy to let you stay there with your dog. The pet deposit isn’t too much and the rules aren’t too harsh, so you have the option of staying in some really nice places all throughout the UK and walking with your dog through areas that have an amazing amount of natural beauty. It’s a great thing to behold and it can bring you a lot of peace and contentment, too. While you’re enjoying yourself, don’t forget the benefits that your dog is getting, too. He’s getting exercise and time with you, as well as a chance to explore new places. What more could he want?
If you are looking for dog friendly hotels Isle of Wight located then try www.luccombemanor.co.uk
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