Category Archives: fun

Cyclists ride through Bath in force

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This July will see thousands of cyclists descend on the World Heritage City of Bath in a mass five-mile cycle ride. The event has been organised by British Cycling and Sky and is one of 12 taking place across the country on 25th July 2010.

It is hoped this fantastic event will increase the number of visitors for short break in Bath, allowing them to take part in the bike ride and then be able to enjoy all the attractions the city has to offer. The council, who are helping to organise the event, are hoping that this cycle ride will put the city on the map and will attract many more cyclist to the city. They also hope it will have a knock on affect to the people of Bath and encourage them to cycle more as not only does it help the environment but it is also great for your health. Cycling has been identified as one of the very best methods that people can use to incorporate physical activity into their every day lives.

It’s not just the locals and cycling enthusiasts that can take part, it is also hoped that people on holiday in Bath will also take up the opportunity to get involved. The ride is certainly family friendly as it is non competitive and is open to people of all ages. The cycle ride would be a fantastic family activity that not only helps keep you fit but is also a great way to see the city and will provide plenty of fantastic memories for years to come.

Things to do on the Isle of Wight in July

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If you are like many in Britain, you’ll be taking your holiday on the Isle of Wight this year, and why not? Beautiful countryside, spectacular coasts and great little towns and villages to stroll around, the Isle of Wight keeps even the most restless busy on their Isle of Wight Short Breaks. If, however you are twiddling your thumbs at any point in July then here are just a few things that are taking place on the island that could keep you amused.

  1. Ryde Arts Parade. From the 2nd – 11th July. This flamboyant parade is a must see. Colourful and full of panache this parade kicks starts the Arts festival that takes place in various places in Ryde. The festival and parade also coincides with the Ryde Regatta which is an annual three day event packed full of fun and festivities for all the family.
  1. Rhythm Tree Festival from 16th to 18th July. This festival is firmly rooted on the Isle of Wight and this year it promises to be even bigger and better, showcasing the best of world music from Zimbabwean reggae to French fiddlers and African drummers. Specialising in offering the best didgeridoo playing in the UK from top performers as well as up and coming talent, the festival really is a must see.
  1. Day out with Thomas from 23rd July to 27th July. A great opportunity for all the family, a ‘Day out with Thomas’ at the IW steam railway promises kids a fun filled day, meeting Thomas and his friends, getting an opportunity to ride on a steam train as well as going on a bouncy castle, watching Punch and Judy and even going for a ride on a very bumpy bus.

Here are just three events out of a whole host of activities to choose from whilst you are on your Isle of Wight breaks in July. Whilst on the island there really is no excuse to get bored. Check out some other ideas here.

What’s on in Bath July 2010

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In a city like Bath there is always something on. From music to literature and entertainment to art events, Bath is a city that has a wealth of culture and activity for all those people that enjoy a Bath Weekend Break. In July there’s a unique experience to see Romans Bath by torch light, get to walk on 2000 year old pavements and experience the magical feeling that the Roman Bath buildings offer at night. Steaming waters, ancient buildings all seen by the soft light cannot be beaten. Take advantage of this experience as it runs from the 1st July right up until the end of August.

A new event is hitting Bath on the 3rd and 4th of July. The Bath Food and Drink Festival has a line up of the most tantalising food and beverages from top producers around the country. 130 local and regional producers will be there showing off their culinary delights offering tasters and sharing their knowledge of this growing industry.

For the fourth consecutive year, the Womad festival is being held on the beautiful grounds of Charlton Park on the 23rd July for two days. The Womad Festival, which stands for World of Music and Dance, celebrates music from around the world and different cultures. A typical festival will have a varied mix of live music performances, workshops, stalls and other events that are inclusive for children and adults alike.

If you are on a Bed and Breakfast Holiday in Bath this July make sure you put these top events in your itinerary.

Painting the IOW

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As the sun continues to shine and the skies get bluer, the flowers glow brighter and the birds sing louder what could be better than going on a painting holiday in the Isle of Wight?

With so many Hotels in Isle of Wight to choose to stay in and the Island being so easy to get to from England and in and around whilst there, having a painting holiday where you can truly sit back and relax whilst observing some of the most picturesque sights in the UK really would be hard to beat.

Choose from rugged scenery, spectacular coastline, quaint villages and townscapes to paint. Watercolour some favourite and historic landmarks on the Isle of Wight such as the iconic Needles, a row of three distinctive chalk formations coming out of the sea close to Alum Bay.

The old village of Shanklin offers fantastic painting opportunities with a host of thatched cottages, picturesque lanes and scenic backdrops. Paint a bit of history by capturing the Bembridge Lifeboat Pier. Carisbrooke Castle offers another landmark on the Isle of Wight. With Charles 1 being imprisoned here up until his trial this motte and bailey castle was the strongest on the Isle of Wight and is still an historic part of the island. Then there’s Tennyson Down, forming part of the chalk ridge of the Isle of Wight, this hill was named after Lord Tennyson who resided at Farringdon House nearby, it offers spectacular scenery along with the Tennyson monument.

Of course, you don’t just have to do painting on your Weekend Break Isle of Wight but I would find it hard to think of anything better to do.

Nights Out In Woolacombe with Mariscos

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Night out in Woolacombe

Holidays are about relaxation, site seeing, shopping, food, and resting. However, for many people they are also about spending an amazing night on the town. Fortunately if you are planning to visit Woolacombe in North Devon, an amazing night on the town is completely obtainable. All you have to do is hit up the local club in the area. Mariscos is a popular club that many of the local people and tourists love visiting. Night after night, this club attracts a good audience. And chances are you will be a fan of Mariscos from the moment you step in the door.

About The Club

Mariscos was established in 1967. Today it is one of the oldest existing nightclubs throughout all of England. And old does not make it any less relevant or entertaining. In fact, old only makes it better. The fact that it is established and has been around is a sign that this club knows what they are doing. They would have to in order to stay in business for so long. Over the years they have updated the club and adapted to the changing trends and environment, however they have always stood strong as the premier nightclub to visit throughout all of Devon.

Success

All of us have been to a successful club. And, at the same time, we have all been to a club that is not very successful. It is easy to tell the difference. If you are on holiday in Woolacombe, the last thing you want is to waste your time on a club that is unsuccessful and one that will not measure up with your expectations. Fortunately, Mariscos has been successful throughout the years. Its locations in the beach town of Woolacombe help attract many guests. In addition, all are welcome at this club. Therefore, you don’t have to worry that you are walking into an unfamiliar atmosphere when you get there. Instead, people who are happy to see you visit greet you. In addition, Mariscos makes an effort to play a variety of music. In particular they try to avoid the typical pop music that many people are sued to hearing all of the time.

Plan Your Trip Today

If you don’t live in the area, consider a trip to Woolacombe. It is a great beach town with lots of activities. And there is a variety of affordable holiday accommodation Woolacombe. It may be the perfect mix of fun, nightlife, and a relaxing day for your holiday!

Woolacombe BoardRiders’ Tony Renyard Memorial Competition

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surfer

Repeat visitors to the Holiday Parks in Woolacombe are bound to have seen some of the awesome surfing skills the locals display on Woolacombe Beach and there is a good chance that most of these surfers belong to the Woolacombe Boardriders Club. Formed in 1987 by local surfers, the club has been a haven for local board riders ever since. Regularly organising competitions to test the members, along with social events to create a community and a surfing league to keep everyone busy, the BoardRiders are bringing some order to the North Devon Waves.

One of the longest running competitions the club organises is the Tony Renyard Memorial which was recently held over Easter. The memorial is held in honour of Tony who was a popular member of the Woolacombe surf scene during the 80s. The competition was first held during the first year of the BoardRiders existence in 1987.

The Tony Renyard memorial is usually held on Easter Sunday, but due to a last minute change it was held on the Saturday this year. Competitors were greeted to large 4 to 5ft waves at the start of the competition and an impressive crowd gathered during the day to watch the competition. The crowd is always made up of the regular locals as well as visitors staying in Woolacombe Accommodation.

A surprising upset occurred this year as the reigning champion, Charley Charlesworth, was eliminated in the first round, opening up the rest of the competition and making it even more exciting. After some hard fought early round battles, the final comprised of four Woolacombe locals and it was Stuart Campbell, having honed his skills in Indonesia, who was announced the victor.

Events and competitions like the Tony Renyard Memorial are held throughout the year and are not only great for the members but they also make exciting viewing for anyone staying in Woolacombe on holiday. No doubt many are inspired by the impressive skills of the riders and are spurred on to try out some board riding of their own, which makes Woolacombe an appealing place for visitors keen to learn surfing stay year after year.

National Sandcastle Competition

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Sandcastle

Every year in North Devon a national sandcastle competition is held.  It is one of the area’s top festivities and locals and tourists love the event for several reasons.  Many visit the area during the time and stay in the fine Woolacombe accommodation during the competition.  It is a fun holiday and activity that provides participants and viewers of the competition with many things to do.

About The Competition

The competition is quite overwhelming.  It creates a carnival like atmosphere that literally takes over the Woolacombe beach.  The event brings 8000 people to the area, an entertaining samba band, and the local radio station.  All of these people take the stage while the best sand castle builders in all of England battle it out for the title.  This year marks the 15th anniversary of the competition.  It will be held in June.  Plan your holiday now to attend this fun event.

Ranked Number One for Weekend Activities

Interestingly, this competition was ranked number one for weekend activities in Britain.  Those that considered all of the things to do on the weekend felt that the elaborate sandcastle competition was unique, inspiring, and fun.  It is great for viewers and participants.  And if you are interested in digging, you can enter the competition.  Anyone can enter, so if you want to be one of the many building along the 2 miles on Woolacombe beach sign up today.

Entry Fees for a Good Cause

The money raised from the competition is for a great cause – the North Devon Hospice.  All of the entry frees go towards the hospice in North Devon.  And often these kinds of organizations do not get the funding they need to operate, so you can be sure your money is going towards a good cause.

Shopping In Devon

In addition, while you are in Devon you can enjoy fun shops and tourist activities.  It will be a fun get away weekend.  The Londis Woolacombe shop was recently voted one of the best neighbourhood shops in the UK.  Therefore, you will be in good hands when you walk into their friendly store.  And, one of the great things about this store is they do home delivery for elderly people.  Maybe you could send a delivery to one of the people that North Devon Hospice cares for.  It would be a small way to give back during this fun holiday of sunshine, beaches, and sandcastles.

Horse riding on Your Woolacombe Holiday

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Horse Riding in Woolacombe

Have you ever been horse riding?  It is a must do activity when you visit Devon.  Many people that take holidays to Woolacombe love horse riding and say that it was one of the top highlights of their trip.  Fortunately, there are many campsites in Devon where you can experience the thrill of horse riding.  Whether you have an equestrian side that is dying to come out or you simply want to try something new, horse riding in Woolacombe will be a great activity for you and your entire family.

Great for Novices

If you have never been horse riding before, do not worry.  The experience is great for novices.  First time horse riders are welcome.  You can take a lesson to learn how and even learn new skills that will help you be more accomplished as you ride.  The classes offered are very beneficial to those that take them.  They help many people easily ride the beautiful areas of Woolacombe and have an enjoyable time.

Great for the Advanced

Also, if you are more advanced at horse riding, feel free to skip the lesson.  Go straight to the enjoyable part.  Pick a horse that you think you will enjoy riding and go for it!  If you need to brush up on your skills, you can always take a quick refresher course.  If not, then head out to your area of choice and star riding.

Riding Options

Fortunately, Woolacombe has several different areas for tourists to ride.  You can pick the option that you like and spend a couple of hours in the area.  Each option will allow you to enjoy the wonderful atmosphere of Devon.

  • Ride Out – The ride out is a countryside horse riding experience in Woolacombe. It offers a walk, trot and canter. An escort rides with you during the ride out to make sure everything runs smoothly. And riders usually love the scenery and open fields that rise above the sea level of the area. It is a great option.
  • Sand Dune Rides – Riding the sand dunes is a great option for experienced riders. These riders can walk, trot and canter through the amazing sand dunes of Woolacombe. The scenery is beautiful and the dunes are fun to ride.
  • Beach Rides – Lastly, if you want to enjoy the beauty of Woolacombe, try a beach ride. You will love it. It is a favorite among those that visit the area.

Take a Trip Back to Childhood in Hartfield & Ashdown Forest

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As people grow older, they frequently leave behind their childhood friends, and their faces, voices, and all the things that they used to do together are forgotten. The same is true of the stories and books that we enjoy as children. As we grow older they are left behind for another generation to enjoy.

Hartfield, in East Sussex, gives you the opportunity to recapture all the magic and delight of childhood once more, by allowing you to wander through a place that’s brought a sense of wonder and adventure into children’s lives for decades and decades. The stories of that are set in the nearby Ashdown Forest are those of Winnie-the-Pooh, and the forest is better known to fans of those stories as Hundred Acre Wood (although, actually, Hundred Acre Wood was just a section of the forests that Winnie-the-Pooh and his friends inhabited. The forest itself can be more accurately referred to as ‘Pooh’s Wood’).

Hartfield can be reached from any East Sussex hotel, and from there a twenty minute walk can take you into the forest. Once you’re between the trees, setting out to find the famous locations from the Winnie-the-Pooh stories is perfectly possible. The areas that Christopher Robin and his possibly-make-believe friends visited were all based on the areas that the A.A. Milne’s (ie. The author’s) son (ie. The real Christopher Robin, who was also called Christopher Robin) went to explore. This means that visitors to the forest can play Pooh-sticks on Pooh-sticks Bridge, visit Galleon’s Lap (in reality called Gill’s lap, and a spot from which an excellent Pooh walk starts, which takes people around most of what they wish to see), the Heffalump Trap, Roo’s Sandy Pit and, of course, Eeyore’s Sad and Gloomy Place.

It might be worth starting from one of the forest car parks rather than Hartfield itself, and these are easily accessed from anywhere in East Sussex, including cottages or a Rye hotel.

East Sussex – Home to the Handlebar Club

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People might go on holiday to Sussex and stay in a Rye hotel for a large number of reasons. The area is beautiful and great to cycle through, so there are those who’ll bring their bikes and be looking for advice on routes to take on their East Sussex holiday. Some, whilst looking for information on cycle routes, repair shops and places to stay, may run across the handlebar club, and assume that these people will be able to give them what they want.

They would be mistaken, however, as the Handlebar club in East Sussex is nothing to do with bicycles, and everything to do with Handlebar moustaches.

Founded in 1947 by comedian Jimmy Edwards, the Handlebar club have been proudly sporting their Handlebar moustaches for over sixty years, and they show no signs of stopping. Regularly organising charity events to raise money for good causes, some members would rather lose an arm or a leg than their beloved moustache.

There are many different styles of handlebar displayed at club meetings, which can take place in a whole variety of places, they will, for example, sometimes take place in a pub and other times in an East Sussex hotel.

Their charity nights are always a friendly affair, as people chat about anything, not just moustaches, over drinks and snacks. Visitors to East Sussex would do well to plan attending one into their trip, as it’s a great way to see one of the more eccentric sides of British culture.