Lakeland Cottage Company announces an early bird discount on booking made by 29th Feb 2012.

Reserve your Lake District cottage property by 29th Feb 2012 and benefit from the Lakeland Cottage Company Early Bird Discount on many properties.

All you have to do to find the great savings is to tap in your dates, duration and property size in the availability search box on the Lakeland Cottage Company website, where a list will be displayed of both availability and the cost.

The months of January and February are ideal times to book a holiday or short break. Booking early in the year gives time to organised annual leave if necessary and importantly, gives you something to look forward to later in the year. For families, it enables parents to select holidays and short breaks in school holidays.

Along with the Early Bird Booking discount, Lakeland Cottage Company will automatically enter you into a super iPad 2 raffle when you make a reservation for any holiday in 2012 and placed by 29th February 2012, when shortly after the draw will take place using their super random name selector – the office bin.

Now in their 20th year, Lakeland Cottage Company have the choice of some 90 of the best examples of Lake District self catering properties. With an emphasis on quality not quantity combined with extensive knowledge of each property and the area they are located in means their customers always find the perfect cottage in the Lake District.

Full terms and conditions on the Lake District cottages Early Bird Discount and ipad raffle can be found at http://www.lakeland-cottage-company.co.uk/  along with all the information you will need in order to select you perfect cottage in the Lake District.

Once Christmas is over it’s time to think about and look forward to planning a Valentines get away.

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, it’s time to start thinking about what destination to choose should be high on the agenda.

A destination sure to appeal to both parties is the Lake District. The peacefulness and tranquillity of the lakes and hills provide a romantic setting to rival any. With a choice of romantic places to stay as well, you are sure to find the ultimate romantic break. Year after year magazine polls rate the Lake District as the top romantic destination for a Valentine’s break and it’s no hard to understand why. And that’s not to mention the Lake District being listed in National Geographic’s 50 Places to a Lifetime list.

Many hotels in the Lake District offer special Valentine’s breaks which can be anything from a romantic meal in their restaurant to 2 or 3 night Valentine’s breaks including dinner, champagne, flowers and even optional extras such as private use of a hot tub or pre-theatre tickets to add just that something else special.

For walkers, what better activity on Valentine’s Day then the two of you going up one of the many fells. Once at the top, it’s just the tow of you and miles of spectacular Lakeland landscapes. When back at the hotel, which is sure to have a roaring open fire, you can cosy up and await a truly romantic dinner for two. The cuisine in Lake District hotels never fails to disappoint.

Even though all the lakes in the Lake District are beautiful, Ullswater and Derwentwater are two that truly enchant. Not only are they surrounded by some of the highest fells in the Lake District but you can even experience and take in the view from the water. Ullswater Steamers and the Keswick Launch operate boat trips up and down the lakes which never fail to create that romantic mood.

To further illustrate and confirm the status of the Lake District as a romantic destination, no one need look any further that the pros of Wordsworth. Artists and writers take their inspiration from their surrounding and none more so than when Wordsworth wrote “ I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud”. Just reading the first verse and you are transported straight to the Lake District;

I wandered lonely as a cloud
That floats on high o’er vales and hills,
When all at once I saw a crowd,
A host, of golden daffodils;
Beside the lake, beneath the trees,
Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.

Those with a head for adventure couldn’t choose a better location either. If leisurely strolls and boat rides aren’t your thing, then the Lake District is the number one destination for thrill seekers and outward bound enthusiasts. Whether you’re in to climbing, abseiling or mountain biking, the Lake District will still create alternative Valentines breaks when coupled with a stay in one of the Lake District hotels.

For a destination that is sure to offer everything and more expected from a Valentine’s break, choose the Lake District.

Enjoy a relaxing break at The White House, which is set in a superb location in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere. The perfect base to discover the Lake District.

A visit to The White House provides the opportunity to encounter the Lake District’s most popular destination whilst being wined and dined in a tranquil oasis, merely a minute’s walk from Lake Windermere.

The property is located in “Old Bowness” – a warren of quaint lanes, nooks and crannies dating from the Middle Ages – yet only a few yards from the bustling heart of the town with its huge variety of shops and attractions.  You can watch the world go by with a coffee or meal on our attractive terrace or eat inside in our extensive yet intimate dining room.

In addition to dining, this Bowness on Windermere Hotel offers twelve bedrooms with ensuite facilities at competitive rates.

The White House, now owned by snooker legend Tony Knowles has a new, enthusiastic and ambitious management team eager to provide a memorable and enjoyable experience.

The Hillthwaite House Hotel is proud to announce the dates for their ‘The Art of Cooking’ series.

‘The Art of Cooking’ is a series of themed culinary demonstrations by their talented Chef, Dale Blacow, including live cookery demonstration, detailed recipes and an insight into the professional ‘know how’ of cooking with fresh local ingredients.

With Cumbria having such high quality local ingredients, Dale is always keen to promote them and knows chefs up and down the country would long to cook with such fine local produce.

The first three dates announced are November 2nd 2011 ‘A Taste of Cumbria’, December 7th 2011 ‘A Christmas Feast’ and January 25th 2012 ‘A wee dram for Burn’s night’.

The  ‘Demo’ and dinner is a snip at £30.00 per person which includes a special three course dinner and a glass of house wine. Should you wish to make a night of it then a special offer of the ‘Demo’ dinner and stay at the Hilthwaite House Hotel in Windermere is from £55.00 per person. This offer includes special three course dinner, a glass of house wine, accommodation in a house double/twin room with full English breakfast, subject to availability.
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The Brooklands Hotel in Weybridge are pleased to announce their Christmas and New Year Packages

Looking for work Christmas Party ideas? Or something different to do over the festive season with family and friends? Look no further than our Brooklands Surrey Spa Hotel, where your magical Christmas moments can really happen.

Whether you get into the Christmas spirit at our Party Nights, go for our all out indulgence with our Christmas Day lunch, treat yourself to an overnight stay or see in the New Year with style; Their friendly and experienced Events team will set the scene, providing fantastic food, faultless service and the right atmosphere for the ultimate seasonal party, meal or break.

With prices starting from just £19 per person, let The Brooklands Hotel spoil you, your friends and family, colleagues or clients with an unforgettable and affordable magical Christmas party or break in Weybridge experience at this luxury hotel.

For more information on all of the Weybridge Christmas parties and breaks which include Christmas Party Weybridge Nights, Christmas Day Lunch, Corporate Christmas Lunch, Twixmas Breaks and New Years Eve Parties call The Brooklands Hotel Events team on 01932 335 720 or view our 2011 Christmas Brochure at http://www.brooklandshotelsurrey.com/christmas/index.htm.

York is easily reached by road, rail or air. All major towns and cities are well served by the rail network with Kings Cross, London less than 2 hours away and Edinburgh just 2 hours. The outer ring road, only 2 miles from the city, gives quick access to the motorway network and for visitors travelling by air there are two international airports, either Leeds/Bradford (25 miles) or Manchester (95 miles).
The Grange Hotel Limousine Service

Attractions in York

No visit could be complete without seeing York Minster, Europe’s largest gothic cathedral, just a 10 minute walk from The Grange. Or you could walk the 3 miles of medieval city walls, stroll by the river or amble through The Shambles, one of  Britian’s most picturesque streets.
Shopping in York

Historic York has one of the largest pedestrian zones in Europe and nestled alongside ancient streets and monuments spanning 2000 years of history visitors can enjoy a fantastic collection of elegant boutiques, individual craftshops, as well as top class antique shops and art dealers. Shopping in York is a thoroughly civilised and pleasant experience!
Golf

Over 100 years of mowing and tending greens and fairways has made the York Golf Club course one of the best, if not the best, in the area for golfers of all handicaps.secretary@yorkgolfclub.co.uk with your enquiry.

Created in 1904 by Open Champion JH Taylor, the original heath land character of this course on Strensall Common is still the special component. More recent developments are the excellent new pro shop, extensive practice facilities and clubhouse balcony overlooking the 1st tee and 18th green.

Visitors are most welcome and we have arranged special rates for Green Fees starting from £30 for Grange Hotel guests. Please email
Football

York City Football Club, North Yorkshire’s only full time professional club is located in Bootham Crescent – just a couple of minutes walk of the hotel. It is a professional football club at the heart of the community.

York City has suffered mixed fortunes in the conference after being relegated from the football league at the end of the 2003/04 season. The highlights so far being a play-off place in the 2006/07 season, losing to eventual winners Morecambe, as well as a semi-final appearance in the FA Trophy during the 2007/08 season losing to Torquay.

The club is very much a family orientated club and works hard at promoting sport, particularly football, in the local community. It has a dedicated team developing links with local schools and community groups.
Walking

An excellent way to see the city when staying at York hotels is on foot.  This 3 mile walk, starts quite close to The Grange, in Marygate and takes you through the streets and alleys of the historic walled city.

The Cotswolds, often called the “Heart of England” and lying mainly within the counties of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire.

There isn’t a better way in which to explore the Cotswolds than on foot. For walkers or amblers, the Cotswolds has some of the most beautiful scenery in England. The rolling hills, historical buildings including castles, manors and abbeys are interspersed with quintessentially English villages and hamlets. Having been given the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty status way back in 1966, this area has been a haven for lovers of the outdoors for decades.

Its location makes an ideal getaway destination with excellent transport links due to its position north of Bath and west of Oxford. Popular with visitors from London but equally those further north, the Cotswolds are such a world away in terms of pace of life and character. Even though it is the slower pace of life visitors are after when staying in the Cotswolds, they want to be able to get there as quickly as possible!

It is a typically English so overseas visitors flock to experience a slice of this culture. This area has such a high concentration of quaint villages and architecture which is unique to the Cotswolds, even the British feel like it is a step back in time. For food lovers, the fertile landscape makes for fantastic produce such as cider, cheese, meat and honey. The Cotswolds really is at teh forefront of British regional cuisine.

With staycations on the rise and people lives overloaded, a complete getaway for a holiday or even just a short break is now more important than ever. For the ultimate in getting away from it then holiday lets in the Cotswolds are hard to beat. From thatched cottages to grade ll listed Georgian houses, the choice of high quality luxury Cotswold cottages is now better than ever. Many of these holiday cottages have a wealth of character such as wooden beams, flagstone floors, exposed walls and fireplaces but combined with all the modern conveniences expected and required by guests.

For everyone, a holiday is an extremely happy and special occasion but Cotswolds holiday cottages offer that bit more. The experience of staying in a property that many could only dream of owning and located amongst the rolling hills of the Wolds.

It’s getting to the time in the year when people are starting to think about Christmas. Where to spend it, what to do?

So, think Winter, think cosy fireside snugs, think Lake District Christmas breaks. Whether it’s for a works party for the night or to an organised Christmas hotel break, the Lake District is the destination of choice for the festive period.

With such a choice of high quality Lake District hotels offering Christmas hotel breaks, it isn’t hard to understand why so many people choose to spend their Christmas in the Lake District. What could be better than being able to walk off that Christmas dinner with a walk up one of the many Lake District fells. For those who aren’t quite as energetic, purely taking in the spectacular views is an activity in itself.
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Right, so now you have your accommodation sorted in a great hostel in Dublin or Cork city centre, what else would you like to do?

This is where Celtic Budget Accommodation Hostels really excel over their competitors with a trip planning service that gives you lots of options on things to do in Dublin or Cork.

We’ll take care of everything so that you can get on with your break without any of the hassle of organising things to do in Dublin or in Cork. And, because they have fantastic city centre locations, you’ll never be too far from everything.

Celtic Group hostels planning and booking service is completely FREE OF CHARGE for groups staying with them and they have years of experience in making memorable stays for groups just like yours.

They will help to arrange:

• Coaching Services – Airport Transfers / Day Trips / Event transfers sports/music etc
• Meal Booking Services -  Upgraded breakfasts/dinners / packed lunches / Irish Music & dinner shows
• Visitor Attraction Services – Guaranteed entry to all of Dublin and Cork’s top attractions
• Guiding Services – Airport meet & greet/walking tours/coach trips / specialists guiding for study visits
• Irish Experiences – From Irish dancing lessons to learning to play our national sport of hurling.
• Specialised Programmes – English Language tuition / Study programmes on Irish History & Culture.

Make your group trip the most enjoyable ever!

Need Ideas?
Not sure what you want to do yet? Then take a look at Celtic Group Hostels things to do section for tried and tested group favourites. These are the attractions and activities in Dublin and Cork that previous groups have said they liked the most. You will also find some useful planning tips here.

Decoy country cottages who offer 5 star self catering Ireland are delighted to announce the opening of a new day spa Revive. Together with their therapist Barabra, they hope to bring visitors the ultimate in treatment experience whether it is a luxury facial or body treatment or one of their routine grooming treatments. Revive use Dermalogica products for all their treatments as they believe their approach to product development is both revolutionary and visionary.

Revive is now offering Botox and Collagen treatments – why not leave Decoy Country Cottages looking totally relaxed. Phone Paula on 086 8040614 to enquire about this service.

To view the current brochure please visit http://www.decoycountrycottages.ie/uploads/file/Revive%20Day%20Spa%20Brochure.pdf

If you are staying with Decoy country please be sure book your treatment early to avoid disappointment.

To book an appointment, please call 046 9026960.

The Glenburn hotel in Windermere is a highly acclaimed hotel that offers Bed & Breakfast or half board accommodation with four poster beds, spa baths, a relaxing bar and superb restaurant.

In addition to the hotel, Glenburn also offers a choice of two Windermere self catering holiday cottages, both within a short walking distance of Windermere, Bowness and Lake Windermere.

River Cottage and Gamekeeper’s cottage both comfortably sleep up to six people. They are beautifully furnished to a high standard and have car parking facilities.

River Cottage nestles within the hotel grounds next to a bubbling stream. It’s just five minutes’ walk from the centre of Windermere village, with its selection of bars, restaurants and shops

The 18th-century Gamekeeper’s Cottage is situated in the centre of Windermere village. It is an ideal base from which to explore the English Lake District and Lake Windermere.

Please visit www.glenburn.uk.com for details.

Expect the unexpected – prepare to be amazed by rolling scenery and charmed by the antics of the myriads of wildlife on an Arctic cruise or holiday.

An Arctic holiday promises to be a unique experience in many ways, whether it is enjoying the company of new friends and sharing a ‘once in a lifetime experience’ or savouring the gentle unfolding of each day’s activities as they offer you a wealth of choice!

The Arctic
At the very top of the world, the Arctic regions include Northern Norway and Svalbard, Greenland, Northern Canada and Alaska. Although Russia has the largest land mass in the area and the Franz Joseph Land archipelago, they are not readily accessible as tourist areas.

The Arctic, the land of the midnight sun, of snow and ice, offers some of the finest scenery and wildlife experiences in the world. Visitors to the region can witness enormous colonies of seabirds thronging the cliffs and shores, and enjoy the thrilling antics of whales at sea, and seals and walruses hauled out on rocks and ice-floes. The proximity of the pack-ice offers spectacular cruising between ice-floes. The lucky may even encounter the very symbol of the Arctic – the Polar Bear.
The High Arctic is best explored from June to September, as the pack ice recedes. From the decks of huge ice breakers to Luxury Cruise Ships to 50 passenger converted research ships, there’s a lot to explore.

The Arctic is a region of wild beauty and frozen landscapes inhabited not only by unique wildlife, but also, in Greenland, by hardy native peoples, who maintain traditional cultures at the same time as embracing modern enhancements in lifestyle and communication.

The region’s main areas are:
Spitsbergen
The most accessible part of the region and the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago, a world of dazzling glaciers, ice-plateaux and snow-capped peaks. With its deep fjords, sweeping tundra and summer alpine meadows of wildflowers, the archipelago has a population of just 3,500 people in five settlements. Cruise amongst the islands and discover huge Arctic seabird colonies – little auks and Brunnich’s guillemot along with more familiar species such as puffins. Long -tailed and other skuas patrol the tundra and fjords looking for chicks and lemmings whilst the pure white Ivory Gull nests in small colonies. Animal life abounds too – reindeer, Arctic fox, walrus, seals, whales and polar bear and delicate flowers carpet the land in spring.

Greenland
Greenland is the largest island in the world. It stretches from 60º to 83º north latitude and Kap Farvel, its southern tip, is located at almost the same latitude as the Shetland Islands. The extreme north of Greenland is the northernmost point of land on Earth. Greenland is also dominated by the second largest ice-sheet in the world, covering more than 80% of its surface area. Although huge in size, it is inhabited by less than 60,000 people.

The coastline of Greenland is varied and spectacular. Heavily indented with numerous fjords, it consists of high mountains, 2000 metre (6500 feet) high cliffs and innumerable glaciers. The large glaciers produce the huge, cathedral-like icebergs that are abundant in Greenlandic waters. The largest fjord is Scoresby Sund at more than 300 kilometres (185 miles) long.

The Inuit are the indigenous people of Greenland and are traditionally subsistence hunters, living primarily from whales, walruses, Caribou, Musk Oxen, Arctic Foxes, Polar Bears and seals.

Canadian Arctic
The realm of the polar bear, the ultimate Arctic predator. Gyr falcons and snowy owls hunt whilst the seas contain the Arctic whales – narwhals, belugas, and the endangered northern right whale (bowheads). Geese and ducks nest across these chilly lands; reindeer graze on the sparse vegetation and the other Arctic gulls, the exquisite Sabine’s and the diminutive Ross’s, can also be seen.

Quick Facts
•    The Arctic contains all of the area of Earth located above latitude 66º 33 North.
•    The Arctic is primarily a thick flow of ice over the Arctic Ocean.
•    The Arctic includes Greenland, which is largely covered by a 1 mile thick slab of ice.
•    Greenland received its name from the Vikings who were trying to attract settlers. Most of the Viking settlers died.
•    More fish live along the edges of the Arctic Ocean than anywhere else on Earth.
•    The average winter temperature is minus 34ºC.
•    During summer, the temperature can climb to over 20ºC.
•    The Arctic is the only place polar bears live.
•    Unlike Antarctica, people live in the Arctic Circle.

Choose your Expedition
From the UK, most Arctic holidays expeditions are to and around Svalbard. Earlier in the season, trips are limited to specific areas of the coast due to the density of the ice pack. However, by mid season, it is usually possible to circumnavigate Spitsbergen on longer itineraries. Greenland is the next most popular destination and here the emphasis is on native culture, as well as scenery and wildlife.

There are other options available for Arctic cruises and holidays, including voyages through the ice to the North Pole or an 18 day transit of the fabled Northwest Passage.

Choosing a hotel that excels with its cuisine is getting more and more popular. The combination of high quality accommodation and food is the perfect recipe.

Windermere in the English Lake District is a destination for many foodies. The rich landscape and plethora of artisan produces and suppliers makes for the perfect combination for those wishing to combine a scenic holiday with fine dining.

The beautiful scenery doesn’t just entice guests but also high quality chefs. With chefs working in Windermere hotels that have worked under some of the best chefs in the United Kingdom and in some of most high profile restaurants, it isn’t hard to imagine how good some of the food is in the Lake District.

Many hotels in Windermere with restaurants are combining the latest culinary techniques with locally sourced produce to create show stopping dishes that guests from all over the world are impressed by. For guests from further afield, the ability to experience local produce to the Lake District area, whether that be cheese, air dried ham to rival any prosciutto or Cumberland sausage is a real treat.

In terms of meat production, the Lake District has some of the best quality beef and lamb found anywhere in the UK. For chefs in Windermere hotels it is heaven and why some of the best restaurants in the Good Food Guide and have been for many years.

For many visitors, having the luxury of being able to get ready for dinner and know that downstairs, high quality dining is on offer is highly exciting. No need to hunt around for a restaurant to go to. Do they have a table? What will it be like? Do we need a taxi? Leisure, luxury and first class service is always on offer in the finest Windermere hotel restaurants.

To add to the already long list of Windermere’s attributes and lures comes luxury. Windermere has some of the most stunning buildings with many of the larger residences being luxury hotels. In recent years, some of the luxury hotels have taken their attention to detail to another level. They have refurbished, redesigned, added on, decorated and paid even more attention to detail than before. Windermere now has some of the best hotels in the country and more than rival some of the famous hotels in the south of England.

So you really can have it all when staying in Windermere hotels. The scenery, walking, relaxation and for foodies, some of the best cuisine in the United Kingdom.

Antarctica is the last great wilderness on earth, a place where spectacular icebergs seem to reflect every hue of blue imaginable.

Come face to face with whales, sometimes close enough to smell their fishy breath, and be awestruck by ancient glaciers covered with a carpet of penguins as far as the eye can see in Antarctica.

The Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are less than two days’ sailing from mainland South America and Ushuaia, the southernmost town in Argentina. The Peninsula has relatively mild weather conditions with temperatures as high as 15 degrees Celsius. This mild climate leads to a proliferation of wildlife and, in ‘summer’, endless twilight.

When and Where Do Trips Take Place:

Antarctic visits are mainly concentrated at ice-free coastal zones over the Antarctic summer, the five-month period from November to March, in high summer there will be 20+ hours of daylight.

The formation and movement of sea-ice outside of these times means that from March to November, Antarctica is left to the over-wintering scientific bases and their crews. Apart from the odd ice-breaker trip that may leave in October, tourist ships just don’t risk it outside of these months.

Winter pack ice extends over 620 miles around the continent, it is almost permanently dark and temperatures can drop to as low as -90°c (-130°f)

Temperature Range: December – February -6°c to +10°c (20°f to 50°f)

November & Early December (Late Spring / Early Summer)
• Winter pack ice is starting to melt and break up.
• The scenery is white, clean and pristine with pack ice and giant icebergs
• Courting season for penguins and seabirds – see spectacular courtship rituals
• Seals visible on fast ice
• Spring wildflowers in the Falklands and South Georgia
• Elephant and fur seals establish their breeding territories

Mid- December and January (Mid Summer)
• Normally Antarctica’s warmest months
• Longer days create great light conditions and fabulous photo opportunities at midnight
• Antarctic chicks hatch
• South Georgia and the Falklands – first penguin chicks emerge and fur seals are breeding
• Seal Pups visible on South Georgia and the Falklands
• Receding ice allows for more exploration

February and March (Late Summer)
• Whale sightings are at their best
• Penguin chicks start to fledge
• Receding pack ice allows ships to explore further south
• More fur seals in the Antarctic Peninsula

What Do I Need To Take?

“When your feet are cold, cover your head.”
- Inuit saying.

Clothing
As your trip will be in the Antarctic summer, you won’t need to take any real extreme cold weather gear. Temperatures on many or most days will hover around freezing point, maybe dropping to an extreme of -10°c (20°f). Obviously people adapt to the cold in different ways and I’ve seen some tourists in the Antarctic in lightweight clothing while others are wrapped up like the Michelin man in the same conditions. Layering is the key, and then you can be flexible according to conditions.

Camera
Be sure to take a good quality camera with you, this can be digital or 35mm. Surplus spare batteries/rechargeable types as well as film or memory cards are absolutely essential.

Quality sunglasses
Boy it gets bright! Especially when the sun reflects off the sea and ice or snow.

High factor sun-cream
If you’ve never been burnt under your nose from reflections from snow now’s your chance. The ozone hole is real, don’t let it prove it to you the hard way. Lightweight waterproof rucksack to carry your stuff ashore while leaving arms free to clamber in and out of zodiacs.

Binoculars
Take a good pair of binoculars if you’re an avid wildlife watcher.

Swiss army penknife
I wouldn’t leave home without one.

Photography: What to Use?
Digital Photographic technology has advanced incredibly over the last 5 years, with a good quality camera coming in at a very reasonable price. Generally a digital camera makes the ideal choice for Antarctic cruises and Antarctic holidays; pictures can be viewed immediately, shared easily and edited simply. However some still argue a traditional 35mm SLR film camera cannot be beaten for quality of image even by the very best digital cameras. It really boils down to your own expertise, the convenience you want and your budget.

The Castle Inn Hotel Bassenthwaite are pleased to announce the hosting of a special murder mystery evening.

Saturday 8th October 2011 will see murder at The Castle Inn in the form of a murder mystery evening. Picture the setting, its 1928 and you have been cordially invited to attend the wedding reception of Georgina-Willoughby-Mott to Binky Brinkley in the grand Best Western Castle Inn Hotel. But alas this special occasion takes a turn for the worst when traces of death linger in the air. Can you solve the Murder at the Castle?

Come and join the team at The Castle Inn Hotel Keswick for an evening of love, laughter and mysterious goings on. The evening includes a delicious three course wedding breakfast, a complimentary glass of bucks fizz and canapés and entertainment supplied by Murder Most Horrid and all for only £34.00 per person.

Should attendees wish to make a night of it and stay over at The Castle Inn Hotel Lake District then a special rate of only £50.00 per person per bed and breakfast is being offered.

Set overlooking some of England’s highest fells and Bassenthwaite Lake, the Castle Inn Hotel Lake District is in a beautiful location, just 8 miles from Keswick. Ideally situated for those wishing to explore Bassenthwaite, Keswick and the Lake District, the Best Western Castle Inn Hotel is one of the finest Lake District Hotels offering a warm welcome and the ideal location for relaxing after a busy day discovering the beauties of the Lake District.

Booking is essential for murder mystery evening so please call the Castle Inn events team on 017687 76401 or visit http://www.castleinncumbria.co.uk. Be very careful who you trust!

Close to the city centre and within easy reach of the road-rail network, Hedley House Hotel is one of the best York Hotels, with modern comfortable surroundings, great food and outstanding personal service.

Built in 1845 in the heart of the Victorian city, many of our rooms still include the original fireplace features. Combined with en-suite facilities, hospitality trays and digital widescreen TVs, our rooms are a subtle blend of contemporary modern and historic.

Their intimate award-winning licensed restaurant is a great place to spend an evening or start the night. The restaurant serves a range of home cooked healthy meals, snacks and light bites, all freshly cooked using only award-winning ingredients.

Knowle House is a large Victorian terrace house situated off Bootham on the North side  of the city of York.  York Minster is within a six to eight minute walk.  It is also next door to and under the same ownership as Hedley House Hotel. These York self catering apartments are self-contained, fully furnished and contain all necessary linen, crockery and cutlery.  All have central heating, colour television, electric cooker and fridge.  Wireless internet is available. All but one of the apartments have direct dial telephone.

In a city where car parking space is limited, Hedley House Hotel and Apartments have 19 allotted parking spaces. When these spaces are full there is room for 8 more vehicles in the middle of the car park, the keys to these must be left at reception in case of emergency. The car park operates on a “first come first served” basis.  If this is unacceptable there is a large public car park (chargeable) 2 minutes walk from the hotel.

The Lake District National Park offers a multitude of sights and activities to cater for all tastes. Many of these are available from the doorstep of our luxury Bowness on Windermere B&B accommodation.

Walking:
There are usually numerous books of walks in reception of Windermere guest houses to lend to guests. These range from 2 – 6 miles. The picturesque Biskey Howe can be reached within 15 minutes from many Windermere b&b’s or Orrest Head about 35 minutes. Both offer breathtaking views of Lake Windermere, on a clear day you an even see the Pennines and Morecambe Bay.

Tours:
Various organised tours are offered by local operators. They will collect you from the front door and transport you to many of the Lake District’s spectacular spots.

Golf:
Windermere Golf Club is approximately 1 mile from Bowness. A Windermere guest house should be more than happy to book tee times. Relax afterwards in the golf club restaurant with great views of the surrounding mountains.

Boats & Steamers:
Various boat trips leave the piers in nearby Bowness. Take a trip to Waterhead in Ambleside to the North, or Lakeside at Newby Bridge to the South. At Lakeside you can view the indoor Aquarium of the Lakes – a chance to see many exotic and local fish. Take the train from Lakeside to Haverthwaite. Whichever trip you choose you will enjoy spectacular views o f the mountains and lakeside forests. In the Summer, there are sunset and Jazz night cruises. What an atmosphere!
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The Westmorland Hotel is a very special Lake District wedding venue, surrounded by stunning Cumbrian fell views. 

In 2009 the hotel beat off tough competition to be named a finalist for Cumbria Tourism’s Small Hotel of the Year.  The AA 3 star hotel has been awarded  an AA Rosette for the quality of food for over 10 years and by using our menu selector you can choose your very own menu at a price to suit your budget.  Our 50 contemporary bedrooms, including four Junior Suites are perfect for your guests to fall into after a day full of excitement.

From a small civil ceremony to exclusive use of the whole hotel, we welcome the opportunity to make this wonderful day truly memorable for you, your family and invited guests.

A romantic wedding day at The Westmorland Hotel includes:

• A dedicated wedding co-ordinator and team of staff working together to turn your wedding day dreams into reality.
• A red carpet welcome
• Complimentary welcome drink for the Bride & Groom
• Table decorations and personalised menu cards
• Crisp white table linen and napkins
• Master of ceremonies
• A traditional or contemporary cake stand
• Complimentary accommodation for the Bride & Groom on the night of your wedding to include a delicious Cumbrian breakfast the following morning
• Special accommodation rates for your guests *dependent on the time of year

To request a brochure, or for more information please contact our wedding co-ordinator Becky Bell by email or telephone 015396 24351.

Nestling in the Buttermere, Loweswater, Crummock Water and Lorton Valley in the English Lake District, Scale Hill Cottages has provided accommodation for over two centuries. Situated in its own grounds with an attractive garden overlooking the valley and the River Cocker we now provide Loweswater cottages from February to December inclusively.

Just eight miles from Keswick and Cockermouth Scale Hill, once a famous coaching inn and now a family home, offers a dramatic location for a peaceful escape or a family adventure. Watch the red squirrels in the garden, wander through the woods to Crummock Water, conquer local Wainwrights, take a rowing boat out on the lake, explore the Cumbrian coast – enjoy life in a natural area of beauty.

The Buttermere, Loweswater and Lorton Valley lies in the North West corner of English Lakeland, with its western end opening out towards the coastal plain and thus gathering milder weather than most of the Lake District.

The three lakes carpet the Valley floor interspersed with the green fields of the sheep farms and the broad-leaved woods, and all are surrounded by the fells, ranging from Low Fell in the west beside Loweswater Lake and Grasmoor and Mellbreak guarding Crummock Water, to Red Pike and Haystacks over Buttermere, whilst Great Gable watches over all from the South East.

May Cottage is location close to the centre of Bowness-on-Windermere making it the perfect base to explore all the Southern Lakes. Just one road from the edge of Lake Windermere, an easy stroll to the boat rides, quaint shops and a variety of Bistros, Restaurants and Wine & Tapas Bars. The climatic end to the famous Dalesway Walk – Wonderful, never ending, breathtaking scenic walks and drives. Leisure facilities offer relaxing sauna, steam, jacuzzi, swim & gym areas, with snooker, café & bar with Sky T.V. lounge section.

Here is just a small sample of the excellent reviews May Cottage B&B in Bowness-on-Windermere have received on TripAdvisor:

“Great B&B accomodation close to the centre of Bowness”
5 of 5 stars
Date of review: 4 Apr 2011

Most pleasant welcome received from Sue – the accomodation was ideal for our three night stay – with a very comfortable bed room and fine ensuite. The excellent full English breakfast ,accompanied by Sue’s little talk on the locality and its history, set us up for the day’s walking . The B&B is just a few minutes walk to the centre of Bowness and the pubs and restaurants.
For Rugby League fans, a must is a chat with Len Casey , Sue’s husband and breakfast chef, who can relate anecdotes about his playing career for Great Britain ( some as captain) and England and both Hull clubs.

Our first trip to the lakes and first visit to a B&B. We recently married and decided to stay away for a couple of nights.

Sue and Len are great value, warm and welcoming. Place is a gem, you ll be lucky to get availability as the repeat business is a sign of how popular this place is.

Would love to stay again!

“SIMPLY THE BEST”
5 of 5 stars
1 more review of May Cottage by Sallyberisford:

Date of review: 23 Mar 2011

The Hadrian’s Wall National Trail at 84 miles long passes through some of the most beautiful parts of England.

The Hadrian’s Wall trail provides access to some of the best sections of the Wall whilst using a rich variety of public paths. For further information regarding walking on Hadrian’s Wall, visit the National Trail website.

Cyclists may want a long distance tour or a short ride cycle along Sustrans Hadrian’s Cycleway with well surfaced gravel cycle paths and quiet minor roads.

If you are looking for someone to help you to organise your entire walking holidays along Hadrian’s Wall, including walker-friendly bed and breakfast accommodation, walking routes, food and any transport then using a tour company might be the best option for you. There are a number of companies which offer guided walking tours along Hadrian’s Wall, through the most beautiful sections of Cumbria and Northumberland and you can find out about some of them on our guided walking tours page.

There are so many things to do in the beautiful county of Cumbria, in the North West of England, not least visiting Hadrian’s Wall, which was built as a symbol of Roman power and spans the width of the country. There are a number of stunning walks in Cumbria, including the Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail, which is 84 miles in total. Tantallon House offers the perfect place to stop over, offering 4 star comfortable bed and breakfast rooms for you to relax in.

You can also cycle along the Sustrans Hadrian’s Cycleway National Route 72 when staying in a holiday cottage Hadrian’s Wall, which goes from Ravenglass to Southshields, following Hadrian’s Wall, through the town of Haltwhistle. The total route is 174 miles, and incorporates stunning scenery including coastal view, Roman Ruins, sweeping countryside and occasionally some local wildlife!

Archangelos Guest House offers a choice of quality Bolton bed and breakfast and Bolton self catering accommodation with unparalleled quality and value. Just a few minutes from the motorway, and within easy reach of the Reebok Stadium, Middlebrook Retail and Leisure complex and the Trafford Centre in Manchester, there is no better place to stay.
Whether visiting on business or pleasure, a quiet comfortable night is assured, with private bathrooms and kitchens in either the studio apartment or full 3 bedroom house. Both properties include:

• Wi-Fi Internet Access
• Complimentary Welcome Pack
• Breathtaking Views
• BBQ & Garden Furniture
• Pet Friendly Bicycle Wash & Storage Facilities
• Off Road Parking
• English & German Languages Spoken
• 2 Minute Walk to West Pennine Moors

Please visit www.archangelos.co.uk for more details.

Switzerland is a landlocked alpine country in Western Europe with roughly seven and a half million people and an area of just over forty thousand kilometres square. The country is made up of twenty six states called cantons and it contains three global cities, Geneva, Basel and Zürich. Switzerland is one of the richest countries in the world by per capita gross domestic product, plus Zürich and Geneva have respectively been ranked as having the first and second highest quality of life in the world.

It is bordered by Germany to the north, France to the west, Italy to the south and Austria and Liechtenstein to the east. Switzerland has a long history of neutrality and it has not been at war since 1815. The country hosts many international organizations, including the Red Cross, the World Trade Organization and one of the U.N.s two European offices. However, it is not a member of the European Union. Switzerland is multilingual and has four national languages – German, French, Italian and Romansh.

When it comes to places to stay, there is a great choice of Switzerland accommodation available including serviced accommodation such as hotels and bed and breakfasts, plus Switzerland ski chalets and apartments.

Unlike many holiday destinations, Switzerland makes an ideal holiday destination during all four seasons of the year. During winter months, Switzerland offers world class conditions for both skiers and free riders alike and during summer months, the spectacular mountain scenery provides awesome paragliding, alpine mountaineering, mountain biking, rock climbing and beautiful walking trails for all levels. With plenty of shops, bars, restaurants and other year-round attractions available, Switzerland really is ideal for a holiday throughout the year.

Getting to Switzerland can be fairly inexpensive as a number of the budget airline operators including Easyjet, Bmibaby and Jet2 all fly into Geneva airport. Other major airlines including Swiss Air, British Airways, Lufthansa and KLM also offer competitive fairs from the UK. Flights to Sion airport are available every week during the winter season from London Heathrow airport. Basel, Zurich and Bern also accommodate flights from the UK.

Eden Ostrich World is pleased to announce their festive themed programme of events to occupy even the most excited child this Christmas.

When visiting Eden Ostrich World over the festive period families will be able to experience Christmas themed areas and activities including a craft table where visitors can make a Christmas mask or perhaps colour in a picture and they can even make a Christmas decoration to be displayed on the Eden Ostrich World tree.

The Christmas themed program of events will take place on the 4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, 18th, 19th, 22nd and 23rd of December and is the perfect way to start the Christmas holidays, both young and old!
Eden Ostrich World is a family run business hosting a working farm and visitors centre, which opened to the public in 1998. Diversification came about due to the dramatic changes within the agricultural industry: as it became more difficult to survive whilst farming new ideas started to emerge and after several years planning we created and opened our doors to the public as Eden Ostrich World.
Situated in the middle of the Eden Valley, we couldn’t ask for a more magnificent setting, with the River Eden running straight through our site, it allows customers to take in the views and have a wander down by the river! It is classed as a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to the different varieties of birds and wildlife.

Their aim is to offer bags of fun and Lake District things to do as well as an educational day, not only learning about the ostrich, from incubation and hatching through to being fully grown, but to give people an insight into modern day farming. They also host playgrounds, a tea room and a very reasonable gift shop, as well as the Hayloft Gallery which is packed full of unusual gifts – a Cumbria attraction for the whole family.

For more information on the festive events and for further information on things to do in the Lake District, visit http://www.ostrich-world.com.

Week off work…check, beautiful vistas required, the English Lake District…check, want to see as much as possible, camper van…che1

With such vast, varied and breathtaking scenery as in the Lake District, it is far too difficult a task choosing one destination for a holiday or short break. Great driving roads+breathtaking scenery=the perfect recipe for camper vans.

Camper vans give you:

• The opportunity to visit and experience numerous locations in one trip.
• Give you the freedom to stop off when and where you like and for what duration.
• No need to worry about there not being a hotel or guest house available in the area.
• You are protected from the elements unlike camping.

You’ll never tire of driving on the roads in the Lake District and Cumbria which has some of the most scenic roads in England. In particular, Hartside Pass which The AA and Top Gear list in their top 10 driving roads in England. Other great driving roads include the Kirkstone Pass, the A591 which passes through Ambleside, Grasmere and onto Keswick and not for the faint hearted Hardnott and Wrynose passes.

VW camper vans are particularly suited to the roads in the Lake District. They are compact and allow you to drive on the stunning, narrow roads which other, larger camper van and mobile homes would not be able to.

Camper vans have seen a renaissance in recent years both in terms of new camper vans and mobile homes but especially the popularity of the classic VW camper van. Their iconic status continues to grow and excite young and old. Driving around in the VW camper van is guaranteed to turn heads and makes a holiday even more special.

A mobile holiday is the ultimate in economical holidaying. The cost of parking up on a camping or caravanning site is nominal and sometimes areas can be found that are free. You can self cater as much of the meals as you wish although the Lake District has some fantastic eating houses that really should be visited.

Many people simply can’t justify purchasing a VW camper van for themselves due to lack of annual leave and other commitments. A camper van has to be used regularly both for economy and for the wellbeing of the van. The perfect solution is in the form of hiring. VW campervan hire can is now available in the Lake District and enables those who want to experience a camper van holiday but that do not want to purchase one. Volkswagen camper van hire is also great for those thinking of purchasing a van to gain knowledge of driving one. Camper van hire in the UK, sorted.

For the first time ever, the Lodore Falls Hotel in the Borrowdale Valley will have a very unique theme for Christmas.

The Lodore Falls Hotel on the edge of Derwentwater will be filled with decorations depicting the Nutcracker Ballet -– complete with tutu’s and pink ballet shoes hanging from the ceiling. What’s more the Lodore will also be creating Russian inspired dishes for the menu and a gala afternoon tea with a performance of the Nutcracker Ballet.

The idea to create a real first in Cumbria came from Kit Graves, Director of the Lake District Hotels Ltd group, who saw a stunning Nutcracker display in one of Denmark’s most famous stores last Christmas. Work started on the 2010 Christmas Nutcracker story very early in January and hotel florist Tricia Irving has been sourcing inspirational ways to decorate the hotel ever since.

Decorating the hotel will start in early November and will be completed by 14th November, ready for launch of the Lodore Falls Christmas menu on the 15th November and the afternoon tea with an edited performance of the Nutcracker Ballet on Sunday 21st November.

The hotel contacted Karen Starkey who runs the Karen Starkey Dance School in Whitehaven early this spring. Karen enthusiastically agreed to some of her pupils performing a short version of the Nutcracker during the festive period and was especially thrilled because one of her pupils – Lewis Charlton, is performing in the Nutcracker at the Royal Ballet School.

Earlier this week Tricia and Karen got together to look at costumes and consider how to blend floral and ballet accessories with Christmas décor. The ballet pupils have now been selected and the 20 + team of performers are now rehearsing for the event. The performers range from age 9 to 24 with several of the ballerinas performing point work.

Tickets for the Nutcracker Ballet and afternoon tea cost £15 adult, £7.50 child (family ticket 2 adult 2 children £40). Other Nutcracker themes include Russian inspired dishes on the bar menu, a special Cumbria Life luncheon on 2nd December and music on selected Sundays during lunch.

To find out more about Christmas events at the Lodore Falls Hotel, part of the Lake District Hotels Ltd group, visit http://www.lakedistricthotels.net/lodorefalls/index.php

The AA star classification for hotels began way back in 1912.

The AA first began by recommending hotels and eating establishments to its members in 1908 but it wasn’t until 1912 that they decided to give classifications or stars.

As taken from The AA accommodation star ratings guide, 4 star hotels must have the following:

“Professional, uniformed staff respond to your needs or requests, and there usually are well-appointed public areas. The restaurant or dining room is open to residents and non-residents, and lunch is available in a designated eating area.”

There are many other criteria The AA look for including cleanliness, decor and services such as room service, room size and laundry/dry cleaning for example.
Many consumers know a minimum standard of accommodation they wish to stay in so the star classification for hotels is a good starting point when searching. It may also give added confidence should a hotel be selected if the consumer then finds out the hotel has a high star rating.

Take the Lake District for example. Until recently there were very few 4 star hotels which was extremely hard to believe as anyone that has visited the Lake District knows there are some fantastic hotels. Competition is fierce in areas such as the Lake District so it is not a surprise that a large number of hotels have been carrying out major refurbishments and renovations. In fact, some of the refurbishments seen in Lake District hotels rival any in the country for the quality of their interior design and fittings in bedrooms to overhauls of menus and staff uniforms. Hotel rooms with individual styling and design offering space, luxurious toiletries, Egyptian cotton sheets and his and hers baths. With some of the best scenery in the country and some of the best hotel architecture, it is long overdue that the Lake District has more 4 star hotel classifications.
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ottage retreats just for two. Their Lakeland Guide provides essential information on the towns and villages the cottages are located with recommendations on places to eat and drink in each area.

For more information on the Lakeland Cottage Company special offers and all of their Lake District self catering cottages, visit http://www.lakeland-cottage-company.co.uk

Norfolk is a beautiful and historic county situated on the east coast of England and bordering Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire and Suffolk. Being a largely rural country with a low population density, Norfolk is a great place to experience a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of busy Britain. Around every corner you will find pretty villages, historic churches, miles of unspoilt beaches, countryside and rivers teeming with wildlife.

The historic city of Norwich is Norfolk’s county town and visitors will find so much on offer in the vibrant regional capital. In particular shopping in Norwich is a delight. It is listed in the top five shopping destinations in Britain and visitors can be sure of finding just what they are after. There is a mix of high street brands, two shopping centres, four large department stores and a large number of independent shops, in addition to a permanent six-day market.

Some of the smaller towns in Norfolk, such as Holt, Diss, Swaffham, Burnham Market and Dalegate Market offer a more sedate shopping experience. Here you will find independent retailers and local suppliers and don’t forget the Norfolk farmers’ markets, the craft outlets, the art galleries, the local delis and those little gift shops with the perfect souvenir for you to take back home.

For anyone planning to visit Norfolk during the festive period, Thursford is an absolute must. This is the home of the most popular and spectacular Christmas show in Britain today. As if the dazzling Christmas Spectacular isn’t enough, you and your family can also become part of the ultimate Santa’s Magical Journey into Christmas, where children can visit Father Christmas in his very special house. However, Thursford is not only magnificent at Christmas. You can visit the amazing sights and sounds of the beautiful Thursford Collection, the world largest collection of steam engines and organs throughout the year.

North Norfolk is a holiday destination set apart in its location and it s character, a perfect destination for holidays and weekend breaks. Here you will find a wealth of superb places to stay including North Norfolk bed and breakfast accommodation, hotels, self catering cottages and caravan and camping parks.

The Norfolk Broads is one of the most popular inland waterways in Europe and provides the perfect setting for a holiday, short break or a day trip. The Norfolk Broads is also Britain’s largest protected wetland with status equivalent to a National Park. The beautiful, wild expanse of 125 miles of lock-free navigable rivers, shallow lakes, woodland, fens and grazing marshes, is home to some of the rarest plants and wildlife in the UK to the Swallowtail butterfly to the reclusive bittern.

There truly is no shortage of things to see and do in Norfolk from visitor centres, sightseeing tours, theatre productions, animal attractions and a wide range of outdoor activities including cycling and watersports.