The Lodore Falls Hotel in Borrowdale valley played host to past members of staff during a weekend reunion in Keswick. Over 60 ex staff and several current employees got together to renew friendships and memories.

The reunion attracted past employees from all over the world including Peter Dixon and his wife who travelled especially from Australia for the occasion and stayed on to see friends in the Lake District. Also present was Kurt Hartmann and his wife who travelled from Germany. Kurt was Head Chef at the Lodore Falls Hotel for 27 years and it was he who taught current Head Chef Mike Ward.

The reunion began with afternoon tea at Lake District Hotels ltd Lodore Falls Hotel, followed by an evening trip into Keswick for drinks and a friendly pub catch up.

On Sunday everyone gathered again at the Lodore Falls for Sunday lunch and a group picture before departing home or on holiday.

Organised by Head Chef Mike Ward, Sales Manager Tanya Sentance, and past employee Vikki Brier, they all agreed the effort of finding everyone was worth it. Finding staff was made easier by using social media sites like Facebook and friends reunited. Mike said “Social media has made an impact on being able to keep in close touch with friends across the world. It made finding everyone and keeping them informed so much easier. It was a monumental occasion and great to meet people who worked here years ago.

Mike really enjoyed catching up with his Head Chef mentor and it was especially important that lunch was perfect. Having over 60 people at the event shows how much people fondly remember their time working here at one of the most famous Keswick hotels. It was also nice for our current team to catch up with old friends.”

A quiet little hotel nestled in the village of Far Sawrey near Ambleside and only a short walk to the famous National Trust home of Beatrix Potter – Hill Top Farm. This Lake District Inn offers good, clean and basic accommodation with hearty bar food served in its cosy Claife Crier bar. It is popular with walkers, cyclists and the weekend traveler alike, you will find a warm welcome at the Sawrey Hotel.  Families and those wishing to bring their pet away to the Lake District are all welcome.

When it comes to Lake District Inns the Cuckoo Brow should be your first choice.

After a competition to find a new name for the George Hotel’s refurbished bar, the name is revealed this week as DAPPERS BAR.

The name DAPPERS BAR was chosen from over 270 entries ranging from the very traditional to the very modern and quirky. John Fisk from Shap entered the winning name. He thought the many sided 400 year old history of the hotel could tie in to the new look and feel of the new bar.

The hotel was a buzz during the 1700’s, Bonnie Prince Charlie came to stay and King George II was on the throne. Noted for being smart and well dressed in his fine clothing, King George II was nick named Dapper King George. Now the bar is modern and distinctive, it too feels like a dapper place to be.

Justin Wales, General Manager at the George Hotel part of the Lake District Hotels Ltd Group said “Finding a name has been very difficult because there were so many to choose from and everyone has a different idea what it should be. John was really pleased when we told him that we had decided on Dapper’s Bar because of the link to King George II. He reigned during an important part of the hotel’s history and it was his forebears that the George Hotel was named after.”

John and his wife Sue called in to the bar this week to collect their £60 dinner vouchers and were impressed with the welcoming ambiance, comfy sofas and the fine detail like the gold leaf light fittings. They also shared some of their research on the dapper king and his life with Justin who has already commissioned a special plaque to commemorate the new name.  It is being crafted to sit at the entrance of the bar and will recount the famous words that Queen Caroline allegedly uttered about King George II: “You may strut, dapper George, but ’twill all be in vain, We all know ’tis Queen Caroline, not you, that reign.”

As well as refurbishing the bar, the Lake District Hotels Ltd Group have also made improvements to the rear entrance with the entrance dressed in a new coat of paint and a new barrier entrance to control the car park. It means guests will have much easier access to car park and a pleasant entrance to the rear of this hotel in Penrith.

Now open daily from 11am, the Dapper’s Bar is enjoying increased popularity, attracting new diners at lunchtime and early evening guests looking to try the cocktails and sample the new tapas menu. Visit http://www.lakedistricthotels.net/georgehotel/index.php for more information.

Oldfield House is a former Victorian Gentleman’s residence that now offers high quality Windermere B&B acommodation. The house is set in a quiet residential area away from the busy main road, yet is still within easy walking distance of Lake Windermere. This Windermere Guest House is the ideal location for your short break in the English Lake District, whether you are walking in the Mountains, exploring the world of Beatrix Potter or taking in all the other events and attractions the area has to offer.

The location allows a for very quiet night’s sleep, so if its relaxation you are after, then Oldfield House is place for you.

All rooms are appointed with many creature comforts with high quality linen, luxury Egyptian cotton towels, LCD Tv’s, beverage tray and bathroom ammenties. And for those worried about car parking, they have ample spaces available for guests.

For more details please visit www.oldfieldhouse.co.uk

Riverside Lodge is a property of immense charm and character comprising three adjoining Ambleside cottages in Ambleside. Illustrated in the pictures above, they are delightfully situated in a unique and idyllic riverside setting on the bank of the River Rothay just 500 yards from the centre of Ambleside and Lake Windermere. At the heart of the Lake District in Cumbria.

The three Ambleside cottages are furnished and equipped to 4 star requirement providing quality Self Catering Accommodation. “The Lodge” has two en-suite bedrooms to sleep 4 persons. “Middlebeck” and “Overbeck”, each have one spacious en-suite bedroom to sleep 2 persons only. They are all maintained to a standard which will appeal to the discerning. Ample parking is available in our private car-park. We are unable to accept children under 10 or pets.

Ambleside town centre is just a short walk upriver and a similar walk downriver leads to Lake Windermere. All cottages enjoy views over the river towards Loughrigg Fell and, are completely independent affording total privacy. A perfect location for exploring the Lake District National Park and the wider reaches of Cumbria or for pursuing Hill and Fell Walking, Cycling, Fishing, Bird Watching etc. Ideal accommodation for a romantic honeymoon.

Keswick, with some of the most spectacular scenery in England and located in the largest national park in England, the Lake District National Park. Whilst fell walking is probably the most popular reason for visitors to Lakeland, there are other activities based around Keswick that are available for those who enjoy the Great Outdoors. Golf, Canoeing, Cricket, Bowls, Mini Golf and sailing are all provided nearby. There are Golf Courses at Keswick (at Threkeld, with great views of the surrounding hills on a course with only one bunker), at Cockermouth, Maryport, Workington and at St Bees, the westernmost point of the famous Coast to Coast walk. There are also courses at Kendal and Windermere, Penrith and Appleby, as well as many along the coast. Outdoor bowling, tennis and putting are found at Fitz Park, whilst Hope Park caters for miniature golf enthusiasts. Derwentwater provides facilities for sailing, canoeing and rowing.

Fell walking
Fell walking close to Keswick on Skiddaw or Blencathera provides the more adventurous with a challenge, whereas the Borrowdale and Newlands Valleys provide for more leisurely and reflective walking. A walk through wooded upland brings you to a small hill called Castlehead. From the top the views are exceptional, revealing the entire three-mile length of Derwentwater and a vista of Borrowdale that allows you to look into its distant jaws. Apart from devising your own walks, the Tourist Information Office have leaflets and information showing walks which afford good exercise and splendid views. When walking on the hills, planning and great care must be employed. Whilst objects of great beauty, the weather can make the hills dangerous places. A leaflet is available throughout the National Park, entitled ‘Enjoy the Hills in Safety’. Telephone 08700 550575 to use the National Park Authority’s 24-hour ‘Weather Service’.

Cycling
Keswick is well known for its great cycling terrain. Hiring a bike and travelling the lanes, bridleways and forest tracks provide great exercise and a swift, quiet way to see the countryside. For example, going up into the quiet Newlands Valley using minor roads, is a great experience. The road winds its way to the top of the valley, passing a spectacular waterfall on the way. The route can be steep but is rewarding and the ride back exhilarating to your Keswick hotel. The best mountain bike route in the Lake District is considered to be around the bridleways of Skiddaw. For the less ambitious there is a ten-mile circuit of Derwentwater all on minor roads, providing an easy passage for all ages. Other facilities that are provided in the area and which cater for outdoor activities include equestrian centres, and rock climbing tuition is available at Keswick’s indoor climbing wall. Within easy reach of the town there are many other outdoor centres, details of which are available from the TIC at The Moot Hall in the Market Place.

Keswick is geared up for activities and makes an excellent destination for families. Keswick hotels can be found with family friendly rooms and with excellent leisure facilities on site. These facilities include heated swimming pools, gyms, tennis courts, putting greens and some even have games rooms with both board games and computer games such as Wii consoles installed. As there is no way of guaranteeing dry weather in the Lakes, on site facilities in Keswick hotels to keep children (and adults!) entertained is a real bonus.

It is becoming more and more of a requirement for businesses to provide a niche service or offer something that is just that little bit more specialised than its competitors. This is especially apparent in the highly competitive hotel and leisure industry.

Taking an environmentally conscious approach is one such way. This approach most obviously benefits the environment but is an excellent marketing tool to help a business grow and attract new customers. Many businesses are looking at ways in which to be more environmentally aware green. One such way is by applying for the ISO14001 accreditation. The ISO14001 proves a company’s environmental credentials which enhances a corporate image. This accreditation actually saves the company or organisation money by reducing energy consumption whilst at the same time helping the environment.

The hotel and leisure industry is notorious for its energy consumption. There is the lighting, the washing and laundry, all the electrical goods within the rooms, the heating, kitchens and then Jacuzzis and swimming pools. All contribute to a huge carbon footprint but also high energy costs. The cost of electricity and gas has increased by 20 % in the last year which is creating a huge impact on the profits of a hotel or bed and breakfast. With the economy being in such a bad way at present and customer confidence in spending is decreasing, this industry can’t afford to put up its prices. After all, it is a highly competitive industry to start with.

Hotels have for some time now put notices in the bathrooms relating to the towels situation, in the bath if you would like them changing, on the rail or elsewhere if they are ok to be used again. This of course makes a difference if you think of how many hotels there are in the world but there is so much more that can be done.

The English Lake District is a haven for walkers and people relocating to live and work to provide a better standard and healthier living than in a city. It is understandable that the Lake District has a high number of environmentally conscious Lake District hotels. There are various levels of implementations that can be put into practice within hotels and accommodation providers from recycling and reusing of materials, to sourcing materials, services and supplies locally. There is then a next step that can be taken for example in the form of creating a renewable energy source for the hotel. One of the hotels in the Lake District that has installed a biomass energy production system which has been enabled by its location amongst a 70 acre managed woodland area. Such a system requires expert input but with the correct guidance, an economically feasible and attractive alternative to the use of LPG can be achieved. After a report had initially been produced, it was summarised that a biomass system would be far more efficient than a new high efficiency LPG boiler, an anaerobic digestion system or solar power system. To put this biomass system into context, the saving made should be at least £35,000 per year for this hotel and leisure complex when comparing it to its previous gas boiler system.  With such a saving, it is extremely evident the amount of unsustainable energy that will be saved.

Otterburn is situated in the North East of England in the county of Northumberland.

Otterburn is a small, idyllic village around 30 miles north of Newcastle in the Northumberland National Park and within the Cheviot Hills. In fact, it is located just 16 miles from the Scottish borders which makes it a fantastic place to stop off when visiting Scotland with Edinburgh only 75 miles away. For walkers staying in Otterburn, the Cheviots are a must to visit with nearly 40 peaks over 500 metres in height.

The major sites to see around the area are Hadrian’s Wall and Alnwick Castle of recent ‘Harry Potter’ fame, although there are a host of other attractions like  Beamish, Bamburgh Castle, Cragside House, Wallington House, St Aidan’s Winery, Barter Books, Northumbria Craft Centre, Otterburn Mill, Kielder Forest and the Northumberland National Park to name just a few in the area.  If you fancy a day in the city Newcastle is under an hour’s drive away with its famous Metro Centre and its many, many, many shops providing excellent retail therapy!

The charm of Northumberland is its rolling countryside, diverse wildlife and heritage which come in abundance. Driving on roads such as the A696 is a pleasure running from Otterburn right down to Newcastle through some lovely villages. You will also drive past some of the most stunning castles in the whole of England. Having been part of the Roman Empire, Northumberland has more castles than any other county in England. Bamburgh being the most famous and imposing of all the castles sitting on the Bamburgh coast. It is also the largest inhabited castle in England. Alnwick Castle is a mere 27 miles from Otterburn. Alnwick Castle celebrated its seven hundred years anniversary last year so it’s a great time to embrace the history, art and breathtaking scenery. You can take a stroll down the Alnwick Gardens or simply explore. A great venue to take the whole family.

Northumberland has one of the lowest population densities in the United Kingdom and it really does make for a complete getaway when visiting this area. There is space, room, endless unspoilt countryside but at the same time, some of the friendliest and accommodating people you’ll meet on your weekend away or holiday.

There are only a handful of North East hotels in the Northumberland National Park which again accentuates the feeling of space and complete lack of overcrowding. You feel as if you are a world away from the pressures of modern life and yet Newcastle and its airport are under an hour away and Morpeth, Hexham and Jedburgh even closer.

When staying in one of the Northumbria hotels, you will be spoilt for choice of local produce. Northumberland is a paradise for game due to its landscape but the Cheviot lamb absolutely has to be sampled as well as the seafood which is often described as some of the best outside of Scotland.

The Peak District spans an area of over 500 square miles lying mainly in Derbyshire but also stretching into the counties of Cheshire, Staffordshire, South and West Yorkshire and Greater Manchester. The Peak District was Britain’s first national park, designated in 1951 and is the fourth largest National Park in the UK.
It is a hugely popular national park due to its location with an estimated 20 million people living within a one hour drive. Being on the doorstep of Greater Manchester and Sheffield, this isn’t a huge surprise.

The region is divided into sections known as The Dark Peak, The White Peak, The Staffordshire Moorlands and the Derbyshire Dales. The highest point in the Peak District is Crowden Head on Kinder Scout at a height of 2070 feet above sea level. Kinder Scout is located in The Dark Peak area and can be accessed from Edale which is also the start of the Pennine Way. Most of the region is over 1000 metres above sea level but unlike the craggy Lake District and Snowdonia hills, the Peak District hills are more undulating being soft and rounded.

The appeal of a self catering holiday is growing. A self catering holiday can give a greater freedom and more space for families and allow multiple couples or friends to go away together, splitting costs and
creating a good value holiday. Cottages in the Peak District can be found in many villages as well as off the beaten track should a totally “get away from it all” holiday be required. Peak District cottages can be found in an abundance of styles from unique character properties to spacious, luxury holiday cottages fitted with all the latest gadgets and conveniences.

Walking is the main activity here, both in the Dark Peak and in the hills to the north. The Pennine Way starting from Edale, winds its way up the Pennine chain. The White Peak covers the limestone dales towards the market town of Bakewell. In addition to walking, climbing ‘nursery slopes’ surround the Hope Valley can also be experienced. All the equipment and tuition required can be found Cycle Hire, Horse riding & Treking can be arranged locally, as can Day Fishing in Ladybower Reservoir (seasonal).

When staying in a Peak District cottage, there is never a shortage of activities. Of course going for a walk up one of the many peaks and experiencing the views is a must but there are hundreds of other attractions. Chatsworth, home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, set in 1,000 acres of parkland: a magnificent house and gardens, model farmyard, adventure playground, shops & restaurant. Haddon Hall, a romantic fortified medieval manor, home of the Rutland family, with delightful terraced gardens and restaurant. Eyam Hall preserves the domestic scene of the 17th century, where the Wright family have come and gone for 300 years. Hardwick Hall was created by one of the great characters of the Elizabethan era, Bess of Hardwick. The original tapestries & needlework are displayed. The National Trust now administer Hardwick Hall and many others in this area Calke Abbey, Kedlestone, Sudbury, Gawsworth and the moorland estates of Longshaw & The High Peak.

Cartmel is a medieval village situated on the edge of the southern Lake District. The 12th century Cartmel Priory typifies this village both in architecture and history. It is still used for worship today as it has been for over 800 years and attracts thousands of visitors each year.

The other main attraction for visitors to Cartmel is the racecourse. With the first recorded race said to have taken place on the mid 1800’s, Cartmel races continues to grow in stature and popularity year on year. The creation of a new grandstand, with the back drop of the beautiful southern Lake District coupled with catering to rival any top race event has really put Cartmel on the map.

Cartmel is very much becoming a gastronomic destination. Cartmel and its surrounding villages have some of the best examples of Lake District gastronomy in the whole of Cumbria and the Lake District. Even though many of the restaurants and public houses are located within historic buildings, the food served is right in the 21st century using the finest locally sourced produce that is found in an abundance in the south Lakeland area.

Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding is one of the most famous exports from Cartmel. The pudding is now sold all over the United Kingdom and even world with high class restaurants in London serving this still handmade in Cartmel pudding.

With its top quality food, beautiful historical buildings, race course and spectacular scenery, it’s not hard to believe that Cartmel attracts a cosmopolitan visitor. Luckily, Cartmel offers some stunning luxury Lake District self catering properties. When it comes to Cartmel self catering, what better place to stay in than a beautiful Grade II listed manor house or a beautiful double-fronted period property in Cartmel.

Nearby attractions also include Holker Hall (a stately home with lovely gardens and grounds and a cafe, Cark-in-Cartmel), the Lakeland Motor Museum (In addition to vintage and classic motors, the museum now features of faithfully recreated period shop fronts and also has a themed gift shop. It is now located at its new site in Backbarrow, on the main A590) and Brantwood (an historic house & gardens which used to be the home of John Ruskin with a shop, café and terrace on the east side of Coniston Water).

Buy a bottle of vintage Krug at the super chic Brooklands Bar this Summer and stay the night in a super suite with our compliments.

Why not treat yourself to a bottle of Krug Vintage Champagne from the bar at the new Brooklands Hotel on any Friday, Saturday or Sunday between the 18th of June and the end of August and enjoy a complimentary luxurious stay in one of the critically acclaimed super suites. With an iconic, art deco inspired interior, the world’s most historic motor racing track running through the reception, hot tub overlooking the Mercedes track, critically acclaimed spa facilities and vast super suites, the new Brooklands Hotel in Weybridge, Surrey has to be seen to be believed. And with this unique offer, there is no longer any excuse not to.

The Super suites at the Brooklands Hotel consists of one or two bedrooms and a huge living and dining area.  The average size of this combination is vast, 100 square metres, and as an extra special touch, some of these suites also benefit from their own decked terrace areas overlooking the track. You can enjoy your Krug Vintage Champagne at the bar in Brooklands or we can have it delivered, chilled to your super suite and private terrace upon your arrival. Use of the spa and its unique meditation room, outdoor hot tub, steam and sauna facilities, the next day is also with our compliments.

Located next door to Mercedes Benz World and within the legendary Brooklands motor racing circuit, Brooklands Hotel Surrey is just minutes from the A3, the M3 and the M25, 17 miles from Heathrow and 33 miles from Gatwick. Aiming to be one of the finest luxury Surrey Hotels, Brooklands prides themselves on their personality, individuality, and an unparalleled level of service.

A bottle of Krug Vintage Champagne at Brooklands Weybridge hotel costs £385.00 per bottle.  To book your Krug ‘Champagne and Super Suite Summer Special’ please contact Reservations on reservations@brooklandshotelsurrey.com or visit http://www.brooklandshotelsurrey.com.

South Lakes Cottages offer a choice of two self catering cottages, which are both a relic of the bygone era of iron ore mining in South Lakeland, locally referred to as the “Treacle Mines”. Built of the same local sandstone as many imposing buildings in the area, these Barrow cottages have been tastefully converted, whilst retaining many of the original features.

The properties are situated on the owners small, working farm – conveniently located “off the tourist trail” in a pleasant hamlet between Morecambe Bay and the Duddon Estuary near to Ulverston. It is the ideal location for those seeking a peaceful retreat, with many places of interest including wildlife and nature reserves, yet still within easy reach of the traditional Lake District.

A welcome tray with homemade cakes is provided on arrival.

The towns of Bowness and Windermere are arguably the most vibrant and popular places in whole of the Lake District. They are busy for most of the year with people coming to enjoy the facilities offered by Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake. These include lake cruises to Waterhead in Ambleside and Lakeside at Newby Bridge, sailing, canoeing, fishing and the Windermere car ferry, which runs between Ferry Nab at Bowness and Far Sawrey.

Windermere is a great base for exploring the Lake District thanks to its excellent transport links. Windermere Railway station offers rail connections to Kendal and Oxenholme and it also has direct trains to and from Manchester Airport. Buses also run regularly from Windermere station including southbound journeys to Kendal and northbound journeys to Ambleside, Grasmere, and Keswick.

There is plenty for the whole family to do in and around Windermere including looking round some of the superb shops and visitor attractions such as The World of Beatrix Potter where all 23 Peter Rabbit tales are brought to life in 3D. Other local places of interest include …

Blackwell Arts & Crafts:
House in Bowness which is a superb example of the Arts & Crafts movement;

Hilltop – Near Sawrey:
Take the ferry and visit the writer’s 17th century cottage at the other side of Lake Windermere and see it exactly as she left it complete with her furniture and china.

Lakes Aquarium:
The Lakes Aquarium is located on the Southern shore of Windermere and can be accessed by taking a lake steamer from Bowness to Lakeside at Newby Bridge. Here visitors have the chance to see many exotic and local fish.

William Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage:
Here visitors can visit the home of England’s famous romantic poet at Grasmere. The adjacent Wordsworth Museum displays national treasures of the poet. There is an onsite tea room and gift shop.

The Lake District National Park Visitor Centre:
At Brockhole, situated on the shores of Lake Windermere, ideal family entertainment with interactive exhibitions and adventure playground. Whatever the weather.

For more active visitors there are plenty of walking routes available around Windermere including walks to spectacular viewpoints at Orrest Head and Biskey Howe where you will find breathtaking views of Lake Windermere and as far out as Morecambe Bay on a clear day. Windermere Golf Club is a very picturesque course and here you can relax after your round in the golf club restaurant with great views of surrounding mountains.

To take full advantage of Windermere visitors should look to stay in a luxury Bowness-on-Windermere B&B where you will find the highest quality Lake District bed and breakfast  accommodation.

The picturesque village of Ambleside is located at the very heart of the Lake District National Park at the head of Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake. For a small village of just 2000 residents there is plenty for visitors to the area to see and do. There is a plethora of specialist shop including independent outdoor stores, art galleries and craft shops. There is also an excellent choice of places to eat and drink including traditional pubs and restaurants that cater for just about all tastes including Thai, Italian, English, Continental, Indian and Chinese cuisine.

When it comes to Historic Houses and Gardens visitors will find a wealth of properties available within a short distance of Ambleside. These include …

Brockhole Visitor Centre:
Located near Windermere with beautiful grounds, lakeshore access, children’s adventure playground, café gift shop full disability access and plenty of parking. Various events throughout the year.

Rydal Mount:
William Wordsworth’s home for 37 years until his death in 1850. He moved here in 1813 with his wife, 3 children (two had died the previous year), sister Dorothy and sister-in-law Sara Hutchinson and adapted the home to suit his lifestyle – adding another storey to accommodate his library. Some of his personal effects are on view including letters relating to his appointment as Poet Laureate. Outside, the four-acre fellside garden, landscaped by Wordsworth, was designed to blend in with the surrounding land and is virtually unchanged today.

Armitt Museum & Library:
Combined museum, library and art gallery that explores the history of Ambleside and its surroundings from Roman times to the present day, with emphasis on literary and artistic connections. There are Roman and later artefacts, exquisite watercolours of fungi by Beatrix Potter, historic photographs of old Ambleside, paintings and collages by Kurt Schwitters (influential pioneer of Merz assemblage art), and an archive of over 10,000 local resource books. Regularly changing exhibitions of artwork. Hands-on activities include interactive computer screens, a children’s ‘archaeological dig’ and block printing.

Townend, Troutbeck:
This yeoman’s farmhouse, a fine example of Lake District vernacular architecture was the home of many generations of the Browne family from the early 17th Century until 1943. As the same family lived here for so many years, the house is very well preserved. Inside the oak pannelling and most of the ornately carved furniture and equipment were originally owned by the family. 

Bridge House:
This much photographed tiny house on a bridge over Stock Beck was built as an apple store in 1723. It is one of the few buildings in Cumbria to have retained its original wrestler slates on the roof ridge. In 1926, local subscribers bought Bridge House and handed it to the National Trust, who own the property today.

Galava Roman Fort:
The Romans built a fort here in AD 120, on a raised platform to avoid flooding from the rivers Rothay and Brathay. Before being abandoned by the Romans shortly before AD400. On site there are interpretation panels provide information on how the fort would have looked and operated.

Brantwood Coniston:
The former home of John Ruskin, explore Brentwood’s estate and gardens or experience contempory art at the Sevren Studio. To take full advantage of Ambleside visitors should look to stay in one of the area’s fine hotels, guest houses, self catering holiday homes, or perhaps a luxury Ambleside Bed & Breakfast. A guide to holiday accommodation in the area is available on www.staylakedistrict.co.uk.

A beloved pet is a large part of family life, so why should it be put in a kennel when the family go on holiday?

Sending a pet to a kennel whilst you are on holiday can be inconvenient should there not be a kennel local to where you live, expensive and many owners hate the thought of having to leave their dog or pet when they go away. Taking a dog abroad has its problems with quarantining etc but if the holiday is in the UK, so why not take your pet? It is now far easier to take your pet away with you without compromising on the choice of holiday. In fact, there are now pet friendly hotels which a few years ago, was almost unheard of.

Self catering holidays are an ideal type of holiday when taking a pet away. A self catering property has the space for the dog as many are like home from homes and it enables the ease when feeding and the storing of pet and dog food for example. The Lake District is heaven for dogs with endless walking routes and for the owners, the spectacular scenery coupled with an excellent range of Lake District cottage properties to stay in. Not all Lake District self catering cottages allow dogs, so asking prior to booking is advisable but properties that do allow pets are becoming increasingly more available. Some even let pets go free which makes taking a pet with you far cheaper than kennelling. After all, it is reported that there are around 27 million pets in the UK with 43% of UK households having at least one pet.

France is renowned for allowing dogs almost everywhere which in turn, means a huge number of UK holiday makers venture over there with their dogs. That means the UK tourism industry is missing out on that market to some extent. With the Euro being so poor against the pound at present, it is the perfect opportunity for Lake District cottage owners and other self catering properties in the UK.

Directories are available that list pet friendly cottage and dog friendly tourism businesses which is very helpful. Self catering management and marketing companies always report high number of enquiries for dog friendly cottages and actively advise their clients to allow dogs and pets. As long as there is a separate pet policy document that is sent out and signed by the owners then any damage or other problems are the responsibility of the owner.

It is not always appropriate or right to take a pet on holiday should the destination, type of accommodation or the activities on the holiday not be suitable for a pet. The Lake District on the other hand is one destination with a great choice of Lake District cottages and other self catering properties to stay in that both family and Fido with enjoy equally. This kind of holiday is a real get away and brings even more enjoyment for families.

Within the Lake District there are a number of different terrains so a self catering property can be found to suit any age of both dog or owner from the flatter east side to the rugged western Lake District.

Who would have thought it? Windermere is not on Lake Windermere! In fact, it’s about 2 miles away, with ‘Bowness on Windermere’ being the small town which is on Lake Windermere.

Strangely, Windermere [town] used to be called Winandermere and before that there were actually three small hamlets [Applethwaite, Birththwaite and Heathwaite] which were combined in the 1800’s when there was a greater attempt to encourage people to visit the area.

The railway arrived in 1857, making the area much more accessible to visitors and with this demand grew a wealth of Lake District Hotels. The railway still exists today and brings people from all over the world to this special area of the Lake District National Park. As well as being a sustainable way to travel, most of the Windermere hotels are only a short walk from the station, or at worst a five minute taxi ride.

Lake Windermere is well known as England’s largest Lake at over 10 miles long and is also the deepest at 65 metres. There are numerous outstanding viewing points within easy reach either by car, or by short walk. Gummer’s Howe is probably the most famous being situated at the south end of Lake Windermere. You can drive most of the way, leaving only a 30 minute walk to marvel at the panoramic views over Lake Windermere and across to Morecambe Bay. To see the Lakes from a different perspective, Arnside Knott rewards those who take this gentle climb with stunning views of the Kent Estuary and Morecambe Bay; simply head for the viewpoint. For a more challenging, but still enjoyable walk for most, take the 2 hour round trip to Brantfell and Post Knott. Take the camera, as there are wonderful views of Windermere, the stunning Langdales and maybe even the Lake District Hotel you’ve chosen. Hope for a clear day and always check the weather forecasts before heading out. Suitable footwear is always important, even on these more leisurely walks.

Around Lake Windermere you’ll find an array of villages and hamlets to enjoy. While the drive will be slow around the twisting back roads, you’ll discover Fell Foot Park [National Trust] where you can enjoy an ice cream and hire a boat; Aquarium of the Lakes and the Lakeside and Haverthwaite railway at Lakeside, both being attractions you can enjoy on a sunny or rainy day; at Graythwaite you can enjoy Graythwaite Hall Gardens, which are particularly impressive in the Spring; head up towards Sawrey and visit ‘Hill Top’, a 17th century farmhouse where Beatrix Potter weaved her lyrical magic. At the north end of Lake Windermere, Ambleside is a Mecca for walking enthusiasts and you can take a lake cruise back to your hotel in Bowness-on-Windermere.

You may have found your loved one recently or decades ago, but one sure fire way to keeps those fires a burning is a visit to the majestic Lake District. Everything one associates with romance is here in great excess. Fantastic Lake District Hotels with plumped pillows and crisp linen; Michelin quality candlelit dining; Hand-holding walks offering splendid panoramas; Spa treatments and massages; Evening cruises down the lake; Cocktails on terraces with fell views; Luxury Picnics with champagne and strawberries.

If the Lake District becomes your world for a short break, then coming over the hill and down into Windermere is the start of an incredible romantic adventure. Book a luxury Windermere hotel, unpack and if the weather is fine take the 3 mile stroll to Orrest Head, starting opposite the TIC. The reward for your hand holding efforts will be as breathtaking as that first kiss. Remember to compare the beauty of the views with that of your partner and you can be sure of another breathtaking kiss, or maybe just a sly smile.

To compensate your partner for the effort, treat them to a hot cappuccino or cocktail back at your hotel in Windermere, then change for the evening’s entertainment. A candlelit dinner on a lake cruise is a wonderful way to charm your companion, while enjoying the many sights around Lake Windermere. Marvel at the lakeside houses and envy those with moorings and motor yachts, but enjoy the smooth jazz of the onboard live band and the amaretto that’s helping the shared indulgent chocolate dessert go down.

Cumbria has one of the highest concentrations of quality restaurants outside London.

Whether you are staying in the area or just visiting for the day you will discover a fantastic local cuisine from Michelin starred Lake District restaurants through to excellent traditional public houses, all using locally sourced produce.

Cumbria – the Lake District is well known for its outstanding natural beauty, but the region has so much more to offer including a great selection of high quality Lake District accommodation, first class visitor attractions and activity providers, plus some of the finest food available in the country.

Meat constitutes a significant part of Cumbrian produce, which is no surprise because the climate and geography of the region lends itself better to breeding animals than it does to growing crops. The most famous of the meat products is the traditional Cumbrian sausage, which is easy to recognise because, unlike other British sausages, it is not linked, but long and coiled, and sold by length or weight. It is always made from rough-cut pork and contains 85% meat. Other ingredients include a blend of herbs, spices and seasonings and most butchers have their own secret recipe, some dating back over a hundred years.

Cumbria provides a superb range of local produce including fellbred lamb, beef and pork, plus poultry and game from local farms and estates. Cumbrian rose veal is highly thought on in the restaurant trade with menus as far away as London ordering this sought after Cumbrian product. You will also find a range of jams and chutneys made from Cumbrian hedgerow fruits, plus pickles and preserves, puddings and pies, all with that special taste that comes from being made by people who care about the good food they make.

Water is an obvious natural resource associated with the Lake District, which should not come as a surprise given the seventeen lakes that can be found in the region. Only Bassenthwaite uses the word Lake in its title, each of the others use either the word mere, i.e. Windermere, or water, i.e. Coniston Water. The water in the Lake District is very soft, and makes for wonderful drinking water. For anyone wanting to take some of that experience with them, there are three companies which bottle and sell spring water.

With the popularity of places such as Windermere, it ‘s not hard to believe how it has become a food centre for the Lake District. Surrounding the town and all the way down to the lake are a plethora of Windermere hotels and Lake District accommodation venues. The choice really is endless. Windermere has an excellent choice of Lake District restaurants and they really are spoilt with the amount of fantastic local produce. Cumberland sausage, herdwick lamb and fantastic cheeses are in abundance along with artisan bakers and chutney producers. The real ale in Cumbria – the Lake District is second to none and what better drink to go with Cumberland sausage and mash! There are micro breweries in the back of public houses through to breweries where they offer’s tours.

With packages tailor-made for both ‘him and her’, the Brooklands Hotel in Surrey is the perfect remedy for mind, body and soul.

If fast cars and fabulous spas are your passion, then why not check in to the Brooklands Hotel in Surrey. Situated on the site of the legendary racetrack and airfield, the hotel features a selection of simply stunning packages bound to satiate the most demanding spa divas and the most passionate petrol heads – perfect with the British Grand Prix fast approaching in early July.

If thoughts of indulgence and utter relaxation make you and your partner purr with pleasure, then the Fast and Fabulous Spa Experience is the package for you. You will be treated to two sumptuous spa treatments each, choosing from the signature Jane Scrivner High Velocity Massage, to the Body Brushing treatment or even the Butter LONDON 30 minute Manicure, you can be sure you’ll both be left quintessentially pampered!

Alternatively if your partner’s more of a thrill-seeker than a pleasure-seeker, and would prefer to race round one of the UK’s most famous tracks, rather than succumb to spa treatments, then the His and Hers Spa & Car Experience is bound to keep you both happy. As you enjoy a relaxing Full Body Massage in the hotel’s destination spa, your partner will be having the time of his life negotiating hair-pin bends and high-speed manoeuvres with an exhilarating 30 minute driving experience at Mercedes-Benz World.

The unique, design-led Brooklands Hotel opened its doors this March on the site of the iconic Brooklands race track.  Brooklands Hotel brings a sensational property to the market. The much anticipated opening offers the ultimate combination of contemporary design with a vibrant history.  Predominantly glass, this super style-statement of a property has been designed for luxury, while embracing the rich legacy of the Brooklands race circuit.  Complete with a destination spa, cocktail bar, restaurant, and state-of-the-art conferencing facilities, the 120 luxury rooms and suites offer unrivalled luxury within this area of Surrey.  Priding itself on personality, individuality, and an unparalleled level of uniqueness – where else will you find a spa on a race track, with luxurious suites only thirty minutes away from central London?

The ‘Fast and Fabulous Package’ rate is based on two people sharing a standard room (single occupancy in a double bedded room is £179.00 per room, per night). Spa treatments times are subject to availability and should be booked at your earliest opportunity prior to your stay to avoid disappointment. For more information on the newest of the spa hotels in Surrey visit http://www.brooklandshotelsurrey.com.

The House dates back to the 1900’s and was once the village shop. The atmosphere is one of charm and style usually associated with a luxurious Grasmere Bed & Breakfast.

The garden is a picture at all times of the year and with the dramatic backdrop of the Easedale Fells and the famed ‘Lion and the Lamb’ it is without doubt a special and memorable view.

An abundance of fresh flowers, picture lined walls, a real fire on cold days, fine Wedgwood Countryware china and stylish sympathetic décor are just some of the ingredients of this delightful Guest House.

Proprietors, Karen and John, are true ‘Lake Lovers’ and their desire for guests to enjoy their stay at Raise View House is obvious.

The House is furnished to the highest standards and Karen’s flair for interior design is apparent. Farrow & Ball, The Little Greene Paint Company, Designers Guild, Laura Ashley, Jane Churchill, Nina Campbell, The White Company & Colefax & Fowler are just some of the designer companies used in Raise View House to create this feeling of luxury but in relaxed surroundings.

You are encouraged to relax in the exquisitely furnished guest lounge where English Heritage colours and Designers Guild fabrics from the Royal Collection blend together to give a rich warm glow and possibly enjoy your favourite ‘tipple’ from our well stocked honesty bar.

A lesser known part of Cumbria and on the fringe of the Lake District National Park, Cartmel and the Peninsulas are true hidden gems. Wherever you choose to take your Lake District cottages holiday, nowhere is far away. The Lake District National Park is quite a compact area, but with lots of variation crammed in. From gentle valleys, ancient woodland, our huge lakes which reflect the sky and landscape and of course the soaring mountains and craggy fells are all easy to explore, this along with a host of welcoming towns and villages.

The Cartmel Peninsular – The Morecambe Bay – Arnside
Whilst staying in a Lake District Cottage you will know doubt wish to explore the many lakes, mountains, forests and areas of natural beauty. Lakeland has three peninsulas, each jutting out into the Morecambe Bay. Furthest west is Millom, occupied mainly by Black Coombe, a huge outcrop of Skiddaw Slate facing the Irish Sea. Next, separated from Millom by the River Duddon, is the Furness Peninsular, the largest of the three and with its own little island of Walney. Here you will find the ship building town of Barrow, along with the quaint town of Ulverston. Lastly comes the Cartmel Peninsular, pushing its mass of rolling fells and lush meadows out into the sheltered head of the bay. For me this is a perfect location for a Lake District holiday and is becoming ever more popular, with visitors choosing its peace and tranquility, along with the fine villages; this over the more crowded towns and villages such as Ambleside and Bowness Starting roughly from the foot of Windermere, the Cartmel Peninsular is a rural landscape, a patchwork of meadows, criss crossed with quiet country lanes perfect for cycling. As you head towards the coast, you will come to a clutch of little villages. Cartmel is picture perfect, offering lots to entertain, especially noted for its excellent pubs, wine bar and restaurants. Little Cark in Cartmel is the home of Holker Hall, a fine country house which, along with its gardens, is open to the public. Grange Over Sands overlooks the bay with a fine, mile long, Edwardian promenade. West from Grange and you have Leven and Levens Hall. Famed for the topary gardens this is well worth a visit.

Walks – Cycling – The Bay
The bay is magnificent, a view to rival any of those offered by the lakes from Lake District cottages in this area. On a summers day, when the tide is in, it can flat and blue, when out its sands shimmer like a silver mirror. The sun rise is dramatic and come autumn, the harder light picks out the channels and rivers that snake there way out to the sea. One spectacular sight is when the bay fills with early morning mist. The view is a gossamer sea of white, with the dark fells of Arnside rising up in stark contrast – biblical. Now it must be said that nobody should venture out too far onto the sands. They are dangerous, with fast tides and quick sands. However, there are routes across, where from Grange to Arnside there are regular guided crossings lead by Queens Guide, Cedric Robinson. A lifetime fisherman, Cedric knows the ever changing sands and safe paths. The crossing takes up to some four hours, where you will discover the flat expanse is not quite so, where at points you will have to wade across channels, sometimes near chest high deep.

The Coastal Way & The Arnside Bay Shore
West of Grange from your Lake District holiday cottage and you can pick up parts of the coastal way which is well marked on OS maps. However, for me, one of the best walks in the Lake District is to drive – or catch the little train from Grange – around the head of the bay to the Village of Arnside. Like the villages of Cartmel and Grange, this is a little known gem. A fishing and cockling community, it has some good pubs and little shops along with a fine art gallery. From Arnside you simply follow, and keep to the shore line, walking out along the south side of the bay. You can go for miles and miles, sometimes on shimmering sand or pebbles, sometimes up on the cliff paths, with gorse and windswept woodland. With the changing tide and huge vista, this will rival any lake walk. Back at Arnside is a path – indeed you can drive – to the summit of Arnside Knott. A respectable fell, it is a glorious walk on heather and gorse covered limestone rock, with little woods to punctuate the scenery and magnificent views across the bay, with a perfect backdrop of the mountains of central lakes.

Carlisle is a unique city and boasts a renowned history with so much to see and do from its 11th century castle to its beautiful sandstone cathedral.

Many Carlisle hotels and b&b’s are conveniently located not just for exploring historic Carlisle but also the beautiful English Lake District, Eden Valley, the Scottish Borders and Hadrian’s Wall. Whether you are visiting friends or family, business or pleasure Carlisle has something to offer everyone.

Along the City of Carlisle’s northern extent is the Solway Firth, which forms the western section of the Anglo-Scottish border, and thus divides the city from Dumfries and Galloway, one of the council areas of Scotland. To the east is the English county of Northumberland; to the south is the district of Eden and to the west and south-west the borough of Allerdale, both in the county of Cumbria.

There are plenty of things to do when staying in Carlisle hotels and bed and breakfasts. Information for a selection  can be found below:

Arts, Music, Theatre
High Head Sculpture Valley – Magnificent life-size sculptures imaginatively displayed in a natural woodland valley
The Sands Centre – Cumbria’s premier sports and live arts venue
Stanwix Theatre    Situated on the main campus of Cumbria Institute of the Arts, this 216 seat theatre was completely refurbished in 2000.
Tullie House Museum – Discover Carlisle’s Millennium Gallery with its spectacular mix of traditional and cutting edge works.

Attractions
Gretna green Story and Blacksmith’s Shop – World Famous – become part of Gretna’s romantic history
Linton Tweeds – History of weaving and see the 100 year old looms in use

Cycle Routes
Carlisle and Eden Valley Circular Cycle Route – 112 mile route with shorter loops taking in the beautiful Eden Valley. More information and a Route Guide (£1.50) can be obtained from Carlisle Tourist Information Centre.
The Reivers Cyle Route – This 175 mile route from Tynemourth to Whitehaven, passes through Carlisle before travelling north to the Scottish Borders.
The Hadrians Cycle Way – This is a new 174 mile long distance cycle route from Ravensglass to Southshields.
Most of the route is now open with the remaining sections open from 2007.

Forts and Museums
Birdoswald Roman Fort and Visitor Centre – Extremely picturesque setting along the wall, overlooking river Irthing gorge
Guildhall Museum – The Guildhall Museum situated in the heart of the city of Carlisle, has been the home to Carlisle’s historic Trade Guilds for over 500 years
Tullie House Museum – Discover Carlisle’s Millennium Gallery with its spectacular mix of traditional and cutting edge works.

Golf
Aglionby Golf Club, Carlisle    Tel: 01228 513029
Brampton Golf Club        Tel: 01697 72255
Eden Golf Course        Tel: 01228 573003
Stoney Holme Golf Club        Tel: 01228 625511
Silloth Golf Club        Tel: 016973 31304

Historic Sites
Border & Kings Regiment Museum    Two floors of displays tell the story of Cumbria’s County Infantry Regiment from 1702 to date, with uniforms, weapons, silver, paintings and medals.
Carlisle Castle    Formidable medieval fortress reveals the past of this historic city
Carlisle Cathedral – Founded in 1122, Carlisle Cathedral is an impressive building, dominating the skyline from across the city.
Lanercost Priory – Founded in 1166, sited in peaceful valley of the River Irthing
Ravenglass Roman Bath House – Remains of a bath house established in AD130 are among the most complete in Britain.

Natural History
The Cumberland Bird Of Prey Centre – Provides courses and activities as well as displays and corporate events.
Kingmoor Nature Reserve (north and South) – Explore historic woodland and a variety of natural history in these two nature reserves
Talkin Tarn Country Park – 65 acre lake amid 120 acres of farmland and woodland, making it the ideal place for active recreation or a quite stroll.

Shops and Markets
Carlisle Cathedral Shop    A range of gifts and cathedral souvenirs
Cranstons – Traditional butchers with a large range of products made by this family firm.
Cumbrian Cottage Farm Shop – Home-made ice-creams are sold in their farm shop alongside cheeses, fresh vegetables, cakes, jams and pickles
Harrison and Hetherington Farmers Market – Borderway Mart, Carlisle. Second Friday of the month
The Lanes Shopping Centre, Carlisle – Great shopping with some of the best high street names
The Victorian Market Hall, Carlisle – One of the few covered Victorian Markets remaining in the Country, selling everything from fresh meat and vegetables, haberdashery, clothes, florists, stationery and much more.

Sport
Carlisle Racecourse – Carlisle Racecourse is situated at Blackwell on the outskirts of Carlisle and is set in beautiful open countryside
The Sands Centre – Cumbria’s premier sports and live arts venue
Sheepmount stadium – The Sheepmount Stadium is home to Carlisle’s six lane, synthetic, athletics facility as well as numerous cricket, hockey, football and rugby pitches.

Walking
Hadrians Wall Path National Trail – Walking the 84 mile (135km), provides a continuous long distance path from Wallsend on the River Tyne to Bowness-on-Solway in Cumbria and passes through picturesque scenery on both sides of the Border. Many Carlisle hotels are only a short distance from the line of the National Trail, perfect for a short stay en-route for the final leg of your journey
Cumbrian Way – The Cumbrian Way is a 68 mile walk providing an excellent introduction to the English Lake District, England’s most mountainous area.

When it comes to places to stay, visitors will find Carlisle offers a wide range of quality accommodation, from friendly budget priced Carlisle bed and breakfast right the way through to luxury Carlisle hotels. Whether you want a peaceful country retreat or a convenient city centre stop over you are sure to find the ideal place to stay.

The magnificent Yorkshire Dales National Park offers dramatic scenery and spectacular walks – literally from many North Yorkshire hotel doorsteps! Many hotels are perfectly positioned for the Three Peaks of Whernside, Pen-Y-Ghent and Ingleborough.

Also in the immediate locality to some North Yorkshire hotels is some of the most dramatic limestone scenery in Europe, including the Ingleborough Cave, with its dazzling stalactites and stalagmites. Gaping Gill, the most dramatic of North Yorkshire’s pot holes, where water hurtles down in a single jet over 365ft to the floor.

Nearby is Malham Cove, once a waterfall and now an impressive cliff topped by an extensive area of limestone pavement.

A short drive away is the picturesque market town of Kirkby Lonsdale with walks along the Lune Valley to the famous Ruskin’s View, with magnificent views of the hills beyond, and just a short walk from the town centre is the dramatic Devil’s Bridge.

The renowned Settle to Carlisle Railway – passing through some of the most spectacular Dales & Lakeland landscapes including the Ribblehead Viaduct – is a popular day out with Settle being just 5 miles away.

In recognition that we all have to do our bit to protect and enhance our Lake District National Park, tourism business in the area are leading the way in conservation. With tourism being the main industry within the Lake District National Park, it is up to the inhabitants and businesses to become more environmentally aware and no more so than the highly popular Windermere. This can be in the form of recycling all glass, paper, cardboard and hard plastics for example. Networks such as the Cumbria Business Environment Network can help a tourism business become more environmentally aware through advice, audits and the ability to work towards bronze, silver and gold awards for improving their environmental performance.

Apart from recycling and energy conservation, hotels in Windermere and the Lake District can play a large part in conservation of wildlife and the beautiful landscape. The Tourism and Conservation Partnership is another organisation. They support tourism businesses who wish to invest in the landscape and environment. With a membership of over 200 tourism businesses in Cumbria, The Tourism and Conservation Partnership are working together to ensure a sustainable further for Cumbria – The Lake District.

A project supported by the Tourism and Conservation Partnership in Cumbria is the Red Squirrel Conservation project in conjunction with Save Our Squirrels. Since the 19th Century, the red squirrel has been slowly edged out by the larger and more outgoing grey squirrel. In the Lake District, the native red has seen the same decline as in many other parts of the United Kingdom, since the introduction of its grey cousin from overseas. There are however, exceptions, such as Whinlatter Forest, where the red squirrels are fairly strong in numbers.

As a region, Cumbria-The Lake District has been at the forefront of trying to counteract this trend and various organisations have been proactive in taking this forward. The Forestry Commission and Save Our Squirrels, for example, will help these Lake District squirrels, through the opening of a site near Keswick which will allow us to view them in their natural habitat and therefore understand them better.

In Windermere there are various projects, funded by local organisations which will help favour the red squirrel. This is increasingly important as there are only around 21,000 remaining in the whole of the UK. Grey squirrels were only introduced into the UK around one hundred years ago.

While the grey squirrel does not directly attack the red, they tend to be less affected by breeding pressures, can more easily digest acorns and pass on a virus which is more likely to kill the red squirrel; all attributes which have assisted their population growth to the detriment of the native Red. As the grey squirrels are in larger numbers, they tend to get to the food before the red squirrel so it is harder for the red to find the food. There are certain places in the Lake District where it is more likely that a red squirrel will be viewed but as with many rare birds and animals, when one goes to specifically see an animal, it is almost guaranteed they won’t make an appearance!

A variety of tourism businesses, including Lake District and Windermere hotels, raised almost £20,000 last year alone through donation boxes and fund raising events in the area.

Windermere the lake is 10.5 miles long and ranges from a quarter of a mile to one mile wide. The northern end is Waterhead, a mile from Ambleside town centre, the middle being Bowness-On-Windermere and the southerly end bringing you to Newby Bridge.

The start of Windermere’s popularity began in 1847 when the Kendal to Windermere railway line was constructed. This enabled visitors to travel to the heart of the Lake District with ease. The train network has now grown to the direct line from Windermere to Manchester Airport and also the thriving West Coast Mainline that can be joined from Oxenholme The Lake District station. This has brought many visitors from outside the UK to the area and has put Windermere on the map internationally.

The town of Windermere is located on the east bank of the lake and is in actual fact one and a quarter miles from the lake. With a population of approximately 2,295, Windermere is one of the larger towns in the South Lakes. Many businesses have offices and shops in the town due to its location to the many smaller villages in the area. It has a supermarket, many local independent shops and the flagship Lakeland Limited store right next to the train station.

Surrounding the town and all the way down to the lake are a plethora of Windermere hotels and Lake District hotels. The choice really is endless. Boutique and niche hotels have begun to pop up making Windermere a quality destination suitable for young and old.

With such spectacular scenery, Lake Windermere attracts thousands of tourists each yeaar from anglers, to canoeists to yachtsmen and dingy owners. The cruises on Lake Windermere are truely worth a go as the magnificent scenery can be taken in fully. Starting from the south of the lake and Newby Bridge is where you will be.

Continuing up the lake and you pass Cartmel Fell, Far Sawrey, Bowness-on-Windermere, High Wray and the lake comes to an end at Waterhead, only a short walk into the centre of the bustling Ambleside. The views are of course sights to be hold all the way down but the most spectacular are towards the north of the lake where the Fairfield Horseshoe, Great and Little Langdale and Coniston Old Man are in view. The Windermere Marina continues to thrive with around 400 boats having mooring there, the largest inland marina in the North of England.

Of course, if being on the water is not for you, the walking along the shore taking in the scenery and landscapes is equally as enthralling. The town of Bowness-On-Windermere sits right by the lake too. Again, a very busy town but a greater focus on tourism. Many excellent restaurants and bars along with clothing boutiques and gift shops are on offer there. It is also where the Beatrix Potter visitor centre of located. This has become especially popular since the release of the Miss Potter film starring Renee Zellweger and Ewan McGregor.

North, East and West, Yorkshire has something for everyone.

Steeped in history Yorkshire, incorporating the North, East and West, is a region that has a plethora of attractions and activities to keep even the most active children entertained all day long.

Below is a selection of attractions and days out in Yorkshire from across the county and combined will not fail to keep the whole family happy.

Black Sheep Brewery
Situated at the gateway to Wensleydale, Masham is the home of the Black Sheep Brewery. On this site you can learn how the Black Sheep Brewery was established in the early 90’s, find out about our range of traditional ales, discover how they are brewed and where to drink them. You can also see what our Visitor Centre and famous Bistro have to offer, and can buy on line from the Brewery shop.

Bolton Abbey
Bolton Abbey is in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales on the banks of the River Wharfe. With just under 30,000 acres of beautiful countryside, over 80 miles of footpaths and ample space to run around and enjoy the fresh air, there is something for all ages. Explore the ruins of the Priory and discover a landscape full of history and legend, wander along the riverside, woodland and moorland paths, enjoy local produce in the excellent restaurants, tea rooms and cafes, treat yourself in the quality gift shops and food shop or simply relax beside the river with a picnic whilst the children play.

Bondville Miniature Village
Bondville Miniature Village is a masterpiece, surely the finest model village in the country, renowned for its incredible attention to detail. There are over 1000 handmade and painted character figures, over 200 individual and unique buildings, and carefully crafted scenes of everyday life, all set in a beautifully landscaped 1 acre site. Take a leisurely stroll around Bondville, and see its little inhabitants going about their daily lives. Watch the steam train pull its carriages round the track, crossing the river and passing the harbour, where fishing boats and cruisers and moored.

Castle Howard
The Gardens
In keeping with the grandeur of the house, Castle Howard’s grounds are designed on an heroic scale. The 1,000 acres are dotted with statues, lakes and fountains, with memorable sights such as the Temple of the Four Winds and the Mausoleum. The charming 18th-century Walled Garden, with its collections of roses and delphiniums, is filled with fragrance and colour for much of the summer; while the ornamental vegetable garden provides a delicious harvest into the autumn. Ray Wood, their enchanting woodland, is home to unique collections of trees and shrubs. Beautiful displays of rhododendrons, magnolias and azaleas can be enjoyed in season.

Flamingo Land
Flamingo Land Theme Park and Zoo is one of the UK’s top 20 attractions receiving over 1.1 million visitors per year. Flamingo Land offers 375 acres of fun-filled activities. This is one of the largest and most popular fun parks in the UK with more than 100 white-knuckle rides and slides, spectacular shows and wildlife from all over the world. It claims to hold Europe’s largest zoo and houses exotic birds, mammals, fish and reptiles with camels, lions, tigers, and polar bears. Top thrill rides include the Cliff Hanger, Corkscrew, Flip Flop, Kumali, Sky Flyer and Velocity. The Zoo is home for over 1.000 animals, including: flamingos, lions and, zebras, sea lions, reptiles and the penguins. Many of the animals are endangered species and would be threatened in the wild.

So, for the whole family, these attractions can’t be beaten for Yorkshire days out.

Spas date back to Roman times where relaxation, rejuvenation and healing were sought through hot mineral spring water.

Still today, spas offer many of the same services offered at spas in Roman times and they still stand for the same, relaxation, rejuvenation and healing.

Combining a spa treatment with a holiday or weekend away is becoming more and more popular and thankfully now, you do not have to go abroad and spend a fortune in order to do so. With the stresses of work and family life, the ability for total relaxation and making the most out of a much deserved weekend break is a must and places such as Surrey have seen high quality spas hotels opening recently.

Spa’s located within hotels are the most convenient and give the most relaxation as the guest can simply come down from their room and within a matter of seconds be in having a spa treatment, no need to get in a car or walk for miles.

Spa treatments can be anything from a variety of massages to facials, tanning, waxing, manicures, pedicures, anti-ageing, eye treatments, facials and bridal treatments. With the popularity of having a civil ceremony in a hotel, a Surrey spa hotel offers ultimate pampering for the bride and her friends and family.

No destination hotel would be complete without a destination spa. A life spa environment within a hotel can reflect the perfect balance between cutting edge design and classical therapies, such as wet and dry treatment rooms, his & her steam rooms and saunas, outdoor hot tubs, a meditation room with gentle warming water beds and super-chic relaxation areas.

Even the treatments within spas are becoming more luxurious and being tailored to a guest’s specific needs and requirements. A number of highly quality hotels and spas now have exclusive signature treatment menus.

Some of the beauty industry’s most enchanting brands are now creating ranges and therapies for spas. Some of which can only be found of the cream of the world’s beauty salons, for example:

Facials by Lubatti – created by the celebrated and legendary facialist Tracey Malone, sister of Jo Malone and daughter of 1970s’ London society skincare expert Eileen Malone.

Massages and body treatments created by Jane Scrivner – a contemporary treatment designer with more than 20 years experience, and the originator of hot and cold stone massages in this country.

Manicures and pedicures by Butter LONDON – the new face of the nail industry. With a colour range covering catwalk inspired shades, the sexy, the classic and everything in between, manicures and pedicures have never been so on-trend.

A spa really does cater for every pampering and rejuvenation requirement. For the more active spa guest, personal trainers in state of the art gyms can be arranged for those who require detailed instruction and motivation. Equally a spa can be for complete relaxation in the form of beauty treatments, also mind and body treatments such as hot stone treatments and meditation. Men are also now seeing the benefits of visiting a Surrey hotels with spas with specialized male spa treatments and remedial procedures perfect for sportsmen for example.

It was reported that around 24% of the British adult population went away for the 2009 August Bank Holiday weekend.

The August Bank Holiday weekend has always been one of the busiest and most popular Bank Holidays to go away. It is in a prime summer month and also the last Bank Holiday before Christmas. The weekend is one of the last before children return to school and the timing of it is ideal for both tourists taking their first break of the summer or as a short get away for those who have taken a holiday earlier in the summer.

Getting away for August Bank Holiday in the UK is a great idea especially in 2010. The Sterling to Euro exchange rate is still fairly poor and with holidays and prices abroad rising, staying in the UK has been a popular choice this summer. A long weekend is an excellent choice if money is tight and a holiday for a whole week is unaffordable. Another reason could be or if the time off work cannot be had.

Cumbria – The Lake District is a great place to visit for a Bank Holiday weekend as it is easily accessible, has a wide range of locations, activities and places to stay and visit and offers something different from a city break or holiday abroad. Keeping children entertained is easy in the Lake District with such a broad range of Cumbria activities. Listed below are a selection from across the region.

A World in Miniature, Houghton Hall, Carlisle
This truly amazing museum contains of one the world’s top three collections of quality miniatures, from remarkable 1/12 scale copies of antique furniture, paintings and china in beautiful room settings, to everyday items at sizes you just won’t believe! Made with breathtaking skill and craftsmanship and displayed with care and attention to detail, our museum is sure to thrill and delight collectors and the curious alike. We even have the world’s smallest teddy bear!
Read the rest of this entry »

Why is Cumbria such a good destination for spending half term at?

Cumbria is an excellent half term destination. February half term is still out of season and some great bargains can be had. Once in the Lake District all activities are taken care of and children never get borde. Walking, climbing, cycling, sailing…..the list is endless.

Cumbria is home to the Lake District, also known as the Lakes or Lakeland is world renowned for the beautiful lakes and mountains (or fells). The Lake District is home to the highest mountain in England: Scafell Pike measuring 978m (3210 ft).

The National Park was founded in 1951 to offer protection to the well known beauty spots and landscape that has provided inspiration to generations of artists’ writers and musicians.

From a stroll around Buttermere to a climb to the highest peak a holiday in the English lakes provides exercise for the body and relaxation for the mind.

Market towns such as Keswick and Cockermouth give the opportunity to sample the delights of Cumbrian fare many establishments now source their ingredients from local producers.

Whilst areas like Bowness on Windermere and Ambleside are extremely popular other less commercial locations like the Solway Coast and Allonby give you space and quiet with the vast open shingle beaches the majestic beauty of the Solway.

Cottages in the lake district booked through Stay Lakeland assures you of quality and value we have a unique selection of accommodations from simple Holiday home caravans to stunning timber lodges plus a range of cottages in the Lake District in and around this beautiful part of the country.

The picturesque market town of Keswick, nestled on the shores of Derwentwater, has a wide array of shops, restaurants and galleries. Explore the five major lakes, beautiful valleys and unspoilt villages.

For visitors to Keswick and North Lakes there is a range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets, whether you prefer a Keswick Guest House, hotels, caravan sites or Keswick cottages, the choice is yours.

The Lake District is renowned for being a haven for walkers, fresh air and the feel of well being.

The English Lake District is one of fifty places worldwide that National Geographic states is a must to visit, and there is no better way than to combine it with a Lake District spa treatment.

Combining a spa treatment with a holiday or weekend away is becoming more and more popular. With the stresses of work and family life, the ability for total relaxation and making the most out of a much deserved weekend break is a must.

Spa’s located within Lake District hotels are the most convenient and give the most relaxation as the guest can simply come down from their room and within a matter of seconds be in having a spa treatment, no need to get in a car or walk for miles.
Read the rest of this entry »

Jamaica is situated in the centre of the Caribbean, between 17.5 degrees and 18.5 degrees north latitude and 76.5 degrees and 78.5 degrees west longitude. Cuba is 90 miles north.
Jamaica is the third largest of the Caribbean Islands. Cuba is the largest with the second place taken by Hispaniola which contains the countries of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Jamaica is the largest English-speaking Island in the Caribbean, measured at one hundred and forty six miles long and fifty one miles wide and occupying an area of 4,400 square miles.

The population of Jamaica is just over two and a half million with high concentrations in the cities and surroundings, especially Kingston, the capital. Most visitors fly into Montego Bay as the North Coast is home to most of the beautiful beaches and other famous visitor attractions, like Dunn’s River Falls.

It is said that Columbus described Jamaica as “a land of hills and valleys” and crumpled a piece of paper to demonstrate its topography. Almost half of Jamaica is over a thousand feet above sea level and about forty square miles are above five thousand feet. 

The mountainous character of Jamaica creates a wide range of micro-climates. The northeast winds blow regularly throughout the year. During the day, the sea breeze blows onshore and at night, the land breeze blows off- shore. During the American winter season, cold fronts may affect Jamaica, producing very strong cold winds, rain, and a change in wind direction from the North.

There is little seasonal change in average daily temperatures in the lower regions of Jamaica where the majority of the population resides. Readings at St. George’s College Station, Kingston:

• July Average Low at 75.1 degrees Fahrenheit, Average High at 90.7 degrees Fahrenheit
• January Average Low at 69.1 degree Fahrenheit, Average High at 86.7 degrees Fahrenheit

Temperatures are ten to twenty degrees Fahrenheit cooler in the highlands, but the summits of the Blue Mountains have seen light frosts on winter nights.

Higher than average rainfall occurs during September to October and May to June. The major dry period is from January to March. The average annual rainfall of 77.1 inches is strongly influenced by the terrain. The northeast of the island receives the most rain. Areas of the Western end also receive high rainfall.

Daily winds develop along the coasts with great regularity and have greater climatic influence than seasonal variations. Typically, the sea breeze commences in the morning, reaches its maximum velocity of about 20 knots at midday, and then gradually subsides in the afternoon, when they often produce afternoon showers in the interior.

Visitors will not be disappointed by the variety on this luscious island, from sun-kissed white sand beaches to rivers and waterfalls, to mountains and valleys in the interior. There are lots of different types of accommodation to choose from including hotels, Jamaica Villas, and Jamaica apartments. There is so much to see and do in Jamaica including visiting the Island’s best beaches at Silver Sands where you will find fantastic places to stay including Silver Sands Villas and cottages. Silver Sands is located on Jamaica’s famous North Coast, midway between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios.