Echo Travel Guide

TRAVEL BLOG IS ON THE MOVE!!!

2010-04-12T15:13:00.004+01:00

GOOD news - my travel blog has become so successful that it is now off on its own travels!

Due to its popularity, my blog has now been given a new home - and a new name On Your Travels - thanks to Trinity Mirror, on the Loughborough Echo website.

The new blog - http://blogs.loughboroughecho.net/onyourtravels/ - will continue to deliver all the latest travel news, deals, last minute breaks and suggestions for a relaxing holiday.

So don't delay - add it to your favourites, join the RSS feed and keep on reading - and thanks for all your support!

Last-minute breaks with Haven

2010-04-12T10:15:00.002+01:00

HAVEN have come up with a cracking late half-term offer for families wanting to make the most of the lovely spring sunshine.

They’re offering a three-night weekend break from Friday April 16th from just £149 for a family of up to six in Standard self-catering accommodation. The offer is available at a number of Haven parks including their flagship resort Devon Cliffs near Exmouth.

For bookings and to check out similar deals click on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900

More grandparents taking grandchildren on holiday

2010-04-11T16:31:00.000+01:00

WITH families facing ever more pressure on their time, Haven Holidays has noticed a big increase in Grand Travel – grandparents taking their grandchildren away on holidays.

Haven says almost one in five spring breaks at its 35 caravan parks are grandparents giving their grandchildren a treat.

Haven’s holiday parks offer family-friendly breaks with masses to do for all ages from Annabel’s Creative Kitchen for tots to get messy making with cookie and cake decorating to archery, fencing and golf for older siblings and grown-ups.

There are also kids’ clubs in three age ranges from little ones to teenagers and a full programme of entertainment from children’s shows to live bands and cabaret acts.

The parks are also an ideal self-contained environment for youngsters to learn greater independence. Away from traffic and with security teams on duty round the clock, many families feel they offer a great deal of peace of mind.

One family who have found Haven appeals to all generations is the Shaws who live near Durham. They have been going on Haven holidays for 11 years, but as the breaks have become more popular they have had to increase the number of caravan holiday homes they book from two to four!

This year the family, including grandparents Kevin and Joanne, their sons Liam and Tom and seven youngsters, are all going away together to Haven’s Primrose Valley Holiday Park on the Yorkshire coast near Filey.

Joanne said: “It’s become something of a family tradition and it’s great the grandchildren still want to come away, but they really enjoy the holiday parks. Quite often we go out for the day, but we always like to be back by the evening for the entertainment.”

For families with younger grandchildren, Spring breaks are especially popular.

‘It’s a lovely treat for pre-school children before the parks get busy during the school holidays. And there are lots of activities especially designed for under-5’s which makes it easy to keep little ones entertained,’ say Haven. ‘Feedback from grandparents has suggested that they appreciate having so much to do without the need for any additional travelling. And the price is attractive too, with mid week breaks in April on selected parks and dates starting at just £99 for up to six people in ‘Superior’ accommodation.

For more information visit www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900.

Magical fun at a Sheffield hotel

2010-04-11T09:19:00.000+01:00

A LEADING Sheffield hotel has sprinkled a touch of magic to its evenings by hiring a resident magician.

Steve Faulkner, the 2009 British Street Performing Champion, will be up to his usual tricks at The Copthorne Hotel Sheffield to entertain guests and enhance their stay.

Steve, 36, from Sheffield, has been a magician and street performer for 14 years performing his captivating illusions at corporate events around the world and warming up audiences for music acts including The Rolling Stones.

As well as holding the current national accolade for street performance, Steve was also the winner of the 2005 award.

Steve joins The Copthorne Hotel as the City’s only resident hotel magician.

Steve said: “The wonderful thing about Copthorne is that it gets me in contact with the people of Sheffield. The hotel attracts lovely people of all ages and it’s a great place for me to work.

“I live and breathe what I do. As well as the hours I do performing, I practice for four or five hours a day.

“Some of the tricks have taken nine years to develop and I will never get rid of them but I like to try new things. Magic is a bit like golf – you can always improve! People remember it for long time and that’s what I like about it.”

Orla Watt, General Manager at The Copthorne Hotel Sheffield, said: “We are thrilled Steve has joined our team. He’s great at connecting with our guests and making them laugh.

“It is really important for us to further enhance our guests’ visit to the hotel and Steve provides an entertaining and fun experience for all ages. We’re the only hotel that has its own resident magician so you could say we’ve pulled a rabbit out of the hat!”

Steve will be working his magic at The Copthorne Hotel Sheffield once a week in the hotel’s bar.

Prague is the place for a cheap break

2010-04-10T09:15:00.000+01:00

PRAGUE has pulled ahead of its Eastern European rivals to emerge as the cheapest city for UK holidaymakers to take a bargain break this spring, according to Post Office Travel Money’s City Costs Barometer (www.postoffice.co.uk/cityreport2010).

However the survey by the UK’s largest provider of foreign exchange also revealed price falls in some eurozone cities, with Lisbon and Dublin rating as best buys.

Despite the weak pound, which now buys 7.4 per cent less Czech koruna than a year ago, Prague was by far the cheapest of 15 city break destinations surveyed by Post Office Travel Money – with prices well down on 2009 levels (-38 per cent, comparing seven of the items also surveyed in 2009, including meals and drinks).

At £106.17, the 11 typical city break items -including drinks, meals, accommodation, sightseeing and transport - cost almost two-thirds less in Prague than in New York, the most expensive city surveyed (£307.96). Elsewhere in Eastern Europe, Budapest and Warsaw emerge as cities where thrifty tourists will get more for their money, even though sterling has slipped significantly year-on-year against their currencies.

Low prices in Lisbon, second-placed in the City Costs Barometer, prove that the eurozone can also be good value for a city break. However the Post Office found wide variations in prices between the eight eurozone cities surveyed. For example, barometer items that totalled £122.53 in Lisbon cost over twice as much in Paris and Rome, the most expensive eurozone cities.

Sarah Munro, Post Office Head of Travel Money, said: “UK holidaymakers planning a city break this spring should do their homework very carefully. We found big price differences between cities and in cash-strapped times tourists can make their pounds stretch further by picking one of Europe’s cheaper capitals, like Prague or Lisbon.

“The exchange rate is another factor to consider before booking a break. Although sterling remains weak against the euro, it is stronger than 12 months ago so UK tourists picking a eurozone city where prices have fallen could actually be quids in.”

One of the cities where the Post Office did find lower costs was Dublin, second cheapest in the eurozone (£174.86). Criticised in the past for high accommodation, meal and drinks prices, Dublin looks to be 2010’s dark horse and a definite contender for a bargain break – especially for culture vultures. The Irish capital was cheapest for cultural attractions – with free entry to the top museum and gallery surveyed.

Accommodation prices in Dublin have also dropped by 11 per cent, one of the biggest price falls recorded by Hotels.com, who contributed room costs for the Post Office City Costs Barometer.

Alison Couper, Communications Director at Hotels.com said: “Now is a great time to visit the Irish capital as hotels there haven’t been so affordable for years. Dublin hoteliers have been offering great rates and promotions to attract customers during the credit-crunch.”

Istanbul, one of three European Capitals of Culture for 2010 – with a range of special cultural events scheduled, is another good value choice for a city break. At fourth place in the Post Office barometer, prices were low for all the items surveyed and sterling remains relatively stable against the Turkish lira. Although accommodation prices were up 15 per cent year-on-year, three-star hotels rooms were among the cheapest in the cities surveyed for the City Costs Barometer.

Currencies featured in the City Costs Barometer are available on demand at 1,600 Post Office branches (except the Hungarian forint, which can be pre-ordered). 2,600 additional branches offer US dollars on demand, while a total of over 8,500 branches stock euros. Alternatively over 70 currencies can be pre-ordered at 11,500 Post Office branches or online at postoffice.co.uk for next day branch or home delivery.

Bulldog goes for Breakfast....

2010-04-09T07:29:00.000+01:00

SAVVY travellers have known The Bulldog Club for over 20 years and now, with expansion plans in place, the time has come for the company to change its name and refresh its image.

So, after many years loyal service, the bulldog retires to make way for The Bed and Breakfast Club.

In spite of its new name, it’s very much business as usual. The Bed and Breakfast Club has a respected brand, and high quality homes in its portfolio. Its principle remains the same: to offer upmarket bed and breakfast accommodation in exceptional private homes in London and the UK via a first-class booking service.

It has also made a few other changes, which include expanding its team, improving its website and enhancing its marketing efforts.

Its properties are popular with tourists and business travellers alike. Homes are in central locations at affordable prices.

For business travellers and cost-conscious companies, The Bed and Breakfast Club provides accommodation that is a home away from home for those who prefer intimate charm to an impersonal hotel. All properties are personally inspected to ensure the highest level of accommodation.

Emma Crane-Robinson, Managing Director, said: “Our hand-picked, privately owned homes each have a character of their own and promise sumptuous surroundings. We believe that bed and breakfasts reflect the culture of the city, provide a personal touch and make a refreshing change from the uniformity of hotels.”

Carol Ann Nicholls, Communications Director, added: “From our client base it’s obvious that there has been a sea change in attitude towards bed and breakfasts. Tourists and business people alike are choosing to stay in elegant private homes at enviable addresses instead of the run of the mill hotel chain.”

Escape from the pressures of everyday life

2010-04-08T07:27:00.000+01:00

WANT some time away for just the two of you to escape the pressures of everyday life?

Coastal Cottages of Pembrokeshire has the perfect break for you to do just that in a stunning part of Pembrokeshire, where you can discover yourselves again and enjoy that tranquil sense of well being.

Yr Hen Efail was once the old smithy and is perfect for a romantic retreat; it has been beautifully converted into 1 of 4 stone cottages set around the owner’s farmhouse. Surrounded by shared gardens it has its own patio where you can enjoy a relaxing alfresco meal in the beautiful surroundings of this magical property. Furnished to reflect the character of the cottage the open plan living space with exposed beams and stone walls are a real feature in this unique property. Enjoy an evening walk up The Crug to enjoy the panoramic views over Fishguard and out to sea to watch the sunset is a must.

This cottage is perfectly located to explore the beautiful north Pembrokeshire cost path and shares the same location as Periwinkle and Jemimas.

A week’s stay in Yr Hen Efail starting on May 21st 2010 is only £315 for 2 people for a really relaxing break to recharge the batteries.

01437 772760, www.coastalcottages.co.uk

Supper at the Dormy House Hotel

2010-04-07T07:26:00.000+01:00

FRESHLY cut asparagus (grass) will feature in all three courses of a special supper to mark the height of the season at the Dormy House Hotel in the Cotswolds on June 3.

In addition to traditional poaching, asparagus will also feature as a broth, brulee and sorbet in an extravagant menu using some of the finest asparagus available locally.

Not only will local asparagus be featured, the hotel will also use a special purple variety famous in Italy for its sweetness. Dormy’s Sales and Marketing Manager Orazio Pollaci, who has sourced English supplies of the purple crop from a producer in Herefordshire says: “Purple asparagus is grown in the mountains of Albenga, east of San Remo. In Italy some chefs prefer the purple strain because it is sweeter than its green cousin, softer and more delicate, making it easier to cook with. It is perfect in the summer to accompany light dishes like fish and white meat and ideal for risotto’s or just steamed”.

Chef Andrew Troughton has put the menu together for customers to experience the versatility of this crop which is only available for just a few months each summer. Purple asparagus will feature as a garnish in the starter.

The official British asparagus season runs from St George’s Day on April 23 to Midsummer’s Day on June 21. Dormy House celebrates the start of the season and all things English with a traditional St George’s Day supper. Over the ensuing 8 weeks, guests at the Dormy House will be able to sample a variety of asparagus dishes from its menus in its rustic Barn Owl Bar or more formal Dining Room.

The asparagus supper which follows the infamous Bretforton asparagus auction, held literally on its doorstep just a few miles down the road, will cost £35 per head.

ASPARAGUS EVENING MENU

Poached Herefordshire Purple Asparagus
Quail Eggs, Pink Grapefruit, Crispy Bacon
Hollandaise

* * * * * *

Fillet of Organic Salmon
Pomme Puree, Evesham Asparagus Broth
Crispy Chicken Wings

* * * * * *

Lemon & Asparagus Crème Brûlée, Biscotti
Asparagus Sorbet

£35.00 per person

Hair theatre breaks are a cut above

2010-04-06T17:23:00.002+01:00

WELCOME to the curly, shaggy, gleaming, steaming wonderful world of Hair.

Having wowed audiences and critics alike on Broadway, Hair the Musical transfers to London’s Geilgud theatre for two weeks of previews, with its official opening on 14th April. Originally a huge hit back in the late 60’s and early 70’s, this new version opened in Broadway in March 2009 and won a Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical. 41 years after its journey began, Hair will also make history when it arrives in London as it will feature the first entire original cast to transfer to the West End. Short break specialist Superbreak (www.superbreak.com) has a range of packages available that include overnight accommodation and tickets to the show.

Hair tells the story about a group of young New Yorkers in the 60's struggling to balance their lives and loves, rejecting the lifestyles of their conservative parents and rebelling against the looming draft. As the plot develops, each tribe member tells their story although two become increasingly compelling: Berger the tribe’s ring leader and Claude its conscience Claude is enrapt by his new life, in awe of Berger and in love with university student Sheila. But he's faced with an unbearable decision - resist the draft as his friends have done, or compromise his pacifist principles and step up for his country...

THREE STAR PACKAGE – from £88.50 per person – staying at the three star President Hotel located on Russell Square and including a Grand Circle ticket to the show. Based on two sharing and valid week round in May and June.

FOUR STAR PACKAGE – from £162.50 per person - staying at the four star Radisson Edwardian Kenilworth Hotel occupying a prime location in Bloomsbury and including a top priced ticket to the show. Based on two sharing and valid at weekends in May and June.
For more information or to book call Superbreak on 0871 222 3055
or log onto www.superbreak.com

Planning a seaside break in June?

2010-04-04T09:38:00.000+01:00

JUNE is a great month for families with pre-school children planning a seaside holiday to Pembrokeshire.

Not only are prices much cheaper than in July and August but there’s plenty of ‘bucket and spade room’ on the beaches and far less queues at local attractions such as Folly Farm and Oakwood Theme Park.
Coastal Cottages of Pembrokeshire has a special website for families with young children – www.toddlepembrokeshire.com – which features more than 60 properties equipped with cot, highchair, baby listener and stair gate and a pre-booking service for buggies, back carriers and baby hampers.

As an example of prices, a week’s stay at Bluebell Cottage (sleeps four) in Broad Haven – just a two-minute walk from the child-friendly sandy beach – in mid June is £498.
ends

01437 772760, www.toddlepembrokeshire.com

Pet-friendly discounts at self-catering properties

2010-04-03T14:19:00.000+01:00

TO CELEBRATE National Pet Month, Blue Chip Vacations is offering 25% off all seven night stays at any of its 170 pet-friendly self-catering properties through to April 17.
Guests can stay in a host of coastal and rural properties including a range of dog-friendly holiday homes close to beaches that are perfect for four legged friends. These include:
Mincarlo, Torquay – Save £230 – Available from 10 April
Mincarlo is a spacious, newly renovated 4 bedroom house in the highly desirable St. Marychurch area of Torquay.
The property comfortably sleeps eight people in four bedrooms whilst the sun room, with direct patio access, can two additional guests. The spacious pet-friendly garden area wraps around the property offering an ample exercise area for pets as well as the opportunity to dine alfresco on the patio.
Its location is an ideal base to relax in and enjoy the tranquillity of the natural setting. It’s also close to great facilities and popular family attractions. And the year-round dog-friendly beaches of Livermead, St Mary’s Bay, Churston Cove, Elberry Cove, Maidencombe, Watcombe and Babbacombe are all within a short drive.
Mincarlo sleeps ten and can be booked for seven nights from 10 April for £709 (£71pp) saving £230 (including 25% discount).
http://www.bluechipvacations.com/holiday-cottages/torquay/mincarlo.html
The Manor House, near Newton Abbot - Save £412 – Available from 10 April
Manor House is an outstanding country house situated in the leafy hamlet of Coffinswell on the outskirts of the traditional market town of Newton Abbot.
Mentioned in the Doomsday book as the ‘Manor at Willie’, the property was home to Lord Hugo Coffin in the 12th Century, who played a prominent role in the local area. Situated in substantial grounds, which have been landscaped and designed by an internationally renowned garden designer, Manor House enjoys immaculately presented lawns and flower beds that perfectly complement the far-reaching rural views. Local walks are perfect for pets.
Internally, the property is gracefully presented with original features such as beamed ceilings in the kitchen and dining room. Beneath its period charm, the house has been fully equipped for modern living with special features such as its Sonnos multi-room music system, which channels music throughout the ground floor of the house. There are five spacious bedrooms, with spectacular views over the rolling Devon countryside. There’s even a sunroom from which views of the garden can be enjoyed, and a conservatory that houses a Moorish hot tub.
Manor House sleeps ten and can be booked for seven nights from 10 April for £1,257 (£126pp) saving £412 including 25% discount.
http://www.bluechipvacations.com/holiday-cottages/torquay/manor-house.html
Bookings can be made by calling Blue Chip Vacations on 0844 5612001 or by visiting www.bluechipvacations.com
Sweet Rose, near Torquay – save £72 – Available from 10 April
History meets modern day luxuries in this beautifully restored barn at Old Manor Farm, which has recently been awarded the prestigious ‘4 star gold’ rating by Visit Britain.
Sweet Rose is a cosy romantic retreat for two. Part of The Old Manor Farmhouse, a 16th Century Devon longhouse, Sweet Rose enjoys original character features such as stunning oak beams, cob and stone walls and high, beamed, vaulted ceilings.
Modern luxuries have been introduced such as a king-size bed, a roll top bath and Freeview TV/DVDs; you can even arrange pampering on-site including massages, manicures, pedicures and facials.
It’s also perfect for pets as it has a large communal garden enclosed with stone walls and apple trees from the old orchard.
Sweet Rose sleeps two and can be booked for seven nights from 10 April for £237 (£118pp) saving £72 including the 25% discount.
http://www.bluechipvacations.com/holiday-cottages/torquay/sweet-rose-old-manor-farm.html
For self-catering bookings please call Blue Chip Vacations on 0844 5612001 or log on to www.bluechipvacations.com

Luxury break on the beachfront on the Isle of Wight

2010-04-03T07:57:00.000+01:00

WHO wants to be a millionaire – or at least live like one for a week! Well now you have the chance to enjoy the life of luxury by taking a break at The Beach House in Seaview on the Isle of Wight.

This stunning property is located on the beachfront overlooking Seagrove Bay. It is set over four floors and can sleep up to 12 people in great comfort, and has its own garden leading down to the beach.

On the ground floor there is a large wet room with two showers and changing area.

The master bedroom has a king size bed complete with dressing room, ensuite bathroom with bath, walk in shower and study area.

In the kitchen there is a range hob and oven, three refrigerators and a wine chiller. There is a flat screen TV in the living room and master bedroom, plus a projector television in the cinema room and broadband connection.

There is a spacious balcony with dining for up to eight people.

Prices for a week’s stay start at £1495, for full details please contact Wight Locations on 01983 811418 or visit www.wightlocations.co.uk

UK still proving a popular choice for holdiaymakers

2010-04-02T11:53:00.000+01:00

WITH the Euro still giving you less than a pound’s worth of spending power and airport strikes disrupting overseas travel it’s hardly surprising that more people are opting for UK holidays.

And with some exceptional Spring deals around at the moment, staying closer to home is even more attractive!

‘It’s all about value for money and choosing a stress-free family holiday,’ say Haven Holidays who have thirty-five family holiday parks around the UK.

Haven are offering half board breaks from less than £13.50 per person per night for a family of up to six people INCLUDING dinner, bed and breakfast.

Half board packages are available at Hafan y Mor in North Wales and Craig Tara in Scotland. Accommodation is in comfortable heated apartments complete with bed linen and towels and includes a ‘help- yourself-to-as-much-as-you-like’ breakfast and a choice of three course dinner menus.

The £13.50 deal is based on a family of six people sharing a ‘Comfort’ apartment for four nights from April 19th at Hafan y Mor on the Llyn peninsula. The park also boasts a boating lake, go-karts, an indoor sports drome, RopeWorks climbing activity centre, bikes for hire and a choice of entertainment venues. ‘Plenty of people park up when they arrive and don’t move the car again until they go home,’ say Haven, ‘so it’s easy to keep petrol costs to the minimum too!’

Want to go cheaper? Self-catering breaks start at just £99 for a four night break for a family of up to six at selected Haven Holiday parks during April and early May. The special ‘mid-week’ price is available at a choice of Haven parks in the Great Yarmouth area, including Caister and Hopton Holiday Village; Riviere Sands in Cornwall; Thorpe Park and Golden Sands in Lincolnshire.

And even cheaper? Take your own caravan to Haven’s Blue Dolphin holiday park on the North Yorkshire coast for a mid-week Spring break and a family of four can stay for just £3 per night! The price is based on a ’basic’ pitch – benefit from electric hook up as well for an additional £2 per night.

Your money goes even further with lots of family activities included in the holiday cost. Enjoy heated indoor leisure pools, sports and organised activities, FREE football coaching for 5-16 year olds, FREE Learn2Swim lessons, kids’ clubs for all ages and a full programme of daytime and evening entertainment.

For immediate bookings click on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900. For camping and caravanning call 0871 230 1933 or click on www.caravancamping.co.uk

More Strictly Come Dancing stars appearing

2010-04-02T09:35:00.000+01:00

DANCE fans are in for a double treat after Warner Leisure Hotels have added some extra names to their Strictly Come Dancing Experience Breaks – giving fans even more chance to see their favourite Strictly stars up close and personal.

A number of additional dancers have been added to a schedule of dates that is already proving irresistible for many Strictly fans - who are putting on their sequins and enjoying all the glitz and glamour of the unique Strictly Come Dancing Experience three and four night breaks.

Darren Bennett and Lilia Kopylova will be at the magnificent Grade-I listed Thoresby Hall Hotel near Sherwood Forest for the evening of Friday May 21st – an extra treat for fans booking a three night weekend break that features Strictly stars Camilla Dallerup and Mark Foster.

Karen Hardy and Craig Revel Horwood will be at beautiful Littlecote House Hotel, Berkshire, for a four-night midweek break beginning April 26th – and will be joined by Vincent and Flavia during the evening of April 26th.

And Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag will appear on June 14th at Nidd Hall, near Harrogate – providing an added bonus for Strictly fans booking the four night midweek break starring Camilla and Mark.

‘We’re thrilled,’ say Warner, ‘Our guests are loving the Strictly Come Dancing Breaks but the extra appearances will make these three dates even more special.’

The holidays offer a unique opportunity to see the Strictly dancers perform some of their own impressive dance routines at the hotel. The Strictly stars also take part in photo sessions with guests and reveal some of their secrets from the show in a ‘question and answer’ session.

Dresses and costumes from the hit BBC One TV programme are also on display and are available to try on, hire or even buy. The breaks include a range of dance classes with top international dancers and the chance to enter a dance competition judged by the audience and the Strictly stars.

Prices for the three or four night breaks, which take place at five historic Warner Leisure Hotels over the next four months, start at £339 and include the full ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ experience as well as dinner, bed and breakfast and a range of leisure opportunities.

The Strictly Come Dancing themed short breaks were launched recently by Warner Leisure Hotels in an exclusive collaboration with BBC Worldwide. The partnership with Warner’s is the first of its kind for the Strictly Come Dancing brand.

For more information visit www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk/strictly-come-dancing or call 0800 048 2879.

Spa breaks with The Bird In Hand Hotel

2010-04-01T08:14:00.000+01:00

THE Bird In Hand Hotel near Maidenhead in Royal Berkshire is now able to offer guests weekend spa breaks, following its recent collaboration with the nearby Castle Royle Golf & Health Club.

Guests of the Bird In Hand who stay on the one and two-night spa breaks will receive a one-day guest pass giving them access to many of the facilities at Castle Royle. These include several fitness studios offering a range of aerobic workouts, as well as yoga, tai chi and pilates classes (to be booked in advance).

In addition, the modern gymnasium boasts industry leading Technogym equipment, plus a free weight area and stretching zone, and there’s a 20-metre indoor swimming pool, complete with sauna, steam room and spa pool.

Castle Royle also has an Aura Health & Beauty salon offering a range of treatments for both men and women, which is open to non-members (treatments to be booked in advance)

After working up an appetite, guests may return to the Bird In Hand safe in the knowledge that its popular restaurant will provide an appetising menu based on fresh ingredients in season.

Options include scallops wrapped in pancetta with lemon grass and ginger dressing, fresh smoked salmon and roasted pepper fish cake with crème fraiche, traditional cod and chips, and braised lamb shank with mashed potato and roasted vegetables.

The new spa breaks at the 14th century Bird In Hand are available Friday to Sunday and cost £60 per person for a one-night stay, based on two sharing, and include a guest pass to Castle Royal, plus dinner, bed and breakfast. A two-night stay costs £110 per person.

For further information or to make a reservation, telephone: 01628 826622 or visit www.birdinhand.co.uk

Easter break in Pembrokeshire

2010-03-31T07:50:00.000+01:00

ENJOY seven nights self catering accommodation in Pembrokeshire with all the family and celebrate Easter in style!

Easter is a great time for all the family and this package in Pembrokeshire is perfect for all ages. Your self-catering property stands in a quiet position within the greatly popular Ivy Tower Village with onsite leisure facilities of indoor heated pool, sauna, gym and tennis courts for all to enjoy.

An Easter egg for each will be awaiting your arrival at your property as will an array of Pembrokeshire breakfast treats ready for you to cook a hearty dish the following morning. Embrace this opportunity to catch the surf at the beach and get into action on the waves, the first to stand wins! If the surf wasn't enough sea air for the family then go on to catch yourself a memory with Sea Fishing along the Pembrokeshire Coastline. A family feast of frolics.

The cost for seven nights self catering accommodation, Easter eggs, Surfing and Sea Fishing for all the family of four from only: £219 per person.

Self-guided cycling tour around Cornwall

2010-03-30T06:47:00.000+01:00

FOOD and drink lovers can experience the taste of Cornwall without worrying about their waistline thanks to a specialist holiday operator.

Cornish Cycle Tours offer an eight day self-guided cycling tour of Cornwall, taking in many of the county’s best known eateries, from the best pasty shops to Rick Stein’s restaurants and classic Cornish pubs.

Foodies can enjoy the critically-acclaimed culinary delights guilt-free: according to Government statistics four hours of cycling will burn nearly 1,500 calories, equivalent to four medium-sized Cornish pasties.

With so much excellent food to devour, an eight-day, 177 mile ride has been devised to combine the stunning beauty of the Cornish coastline with indulgent restaurants.

The route follows country lanes and dedicated cycle trails as much as possible, making sure guests see a side of the county that most visitors miss. As each night’s accommodation is pre-booked and luggage transfers taken care of, cyclists can stop wherever their taste buds take them.

Lanyon Rowe of Cornish Cycle Tours provides a brief slice of each day of the eight-day Cornish Tour and the treats on offer:

Days 1 & 2 - Wadebridge to Charlestown
“After settling in to your accommodation on day one, day two sees you hop in the saddle. There’s no better way to start your tour than with a glass of wine at the award winning Camel Valley Vineyard. If food becomes more a necessity as a result, there’s the Crown Inn, in Lanlivery, a 12th century longhouse and an ideal place to stop for a spot of lunch.”

Day 3 - Charlestown to Falmouth
“After finishing the 26 mile route from Charlestown to Falmouth, you’ll deserve a treat. Fortunately, Rick Stein has recently launched his first restaurant outside of Padstow with the opening of Rick Steins Fish & Chips on Discovery Quay, near the Maritime Museum, offering both dining in and takeaway options, and an oyster bar.”

Day 4 - Falmouth to Porthleven
“Half-way through your holiday and the recently renovated Amélies at The Smokehouse provides the perfect opportunity to reflect as the boats go to and fro and the sun sets in the background. In addition, this restaurant has green credentials and a focus on the freshest ingredients, cooked on a purpose built wood-fire.”

Day 5 - Porthleven to Porthcurno
“Day five sees the tour enter Marazion, grab a Philps Butchers pasty as a snack, (you deserve it). Then an easy, level ride around Mount’s Bay to Penzance and neighbouring Newlyn; both are famous for their fish.It’s also an ideal place for lunch, ending the day at Porthcurno; the Beach Café provides a brilliant place to stop for a tasty cream tea.”

Day 6 - Porthcurno to St Ives
“Day six is one of the shortest days on the tour which affords plenty of time to stop for a drink at The Beach Cafe, Sennen and enjoy the surfers in the sea. Whilst in the area, Gurnards Place Hotel is one of my favourite places to stop for hearty, wholesome food and local beers. Nearby, Moomaid Of Zennor sell lovely ice-creams. Finish the day with a plate of the freshest fish at the famous Porthminster Beach Café, St. Ives.”

Day 7 - St Ives to Perranporth
“First stop of the day is Hayle, which is known for its three miles of golden sands. Philps the bakers in Hayle produce a top drawer pasty. By now you’ll have pedalled over 100 miles - to celebrate, as you roll in to St Agnes head to The Meadery, a fantastic family restaurant serving locally-made mead and fruit wines. Not too much though, you’ve still got to make it to Perranporth.”

Day 8 - Perranporth to Wadebridge
“The final day of the tour should find you both fuller and fitter than ever as you arrive at Padstow. Whilst the picturesque port is famous as the home of Rick Stein, those in the know nip next door from his café to Paul Ainsworth at Number 6 where lunches start at £5.”

The 8 day/7 night Cornish Tour costs £590 per person, including accommodation and luggage transfers. For more details on this and other tours visit www.cornishcycletours.co.uk or call 01637 880710.

Strictly Come Dancing hotel break

2010-03-29T17:45:00.000+01:00

GET up close and personal with the glitz and glamour from BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing with a special break from Warner this Easter!

Warner Leisure Hotels still have availability for their spectacular Strictly Come Dancing Experience Break from April 5th at the beautiful Grade-II listed mansion, Cricket St Thomas – featuring Strictly stars James and current champion Ola.

The break offers guests the chance to immerse themselves in the world of Strictly with tuition from professional dancers, a chance to see some of the costumes used on the shows (you can even hire them!) question and answer sessions with the Strictly Stars and also a chance to see some breath-taking dance routines performed by James & Ola.

The final night of your stay is your chance to compete, judge or simply sit back, relax and enjoy being part of the ‘live’ audience for the Strictly Come Dancing Comes to Warner Competition.

Prices start at £364 per person for a four night break at Cricket St Thomas on 5th April, inclusive of accommodation, delicious 3-course dinners, hearty breakfasts, optional leisure activities and entertainment and the Strictly Come Dancing experience.

For more information visit the website www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk/strictly-come-dancing or call 0800 048 2879.

Ideal base for campers and tourers

2010-03-29T11:40:00.000+01:00

THE five star Vauxhall Holiday Park has all that campers, or those with touring caravans or motorhomes might want – and more!

Situated in Great Yarmouth with its 15 miles of golden sandy beaches and other attractions it has been designed to appeal to a wide variety of discerning holidaymakers. It is also only a short drive from the historic city of Norwich.

It has great facilities for touring caravans, campers and motorhomes with over 200 pitches, all have electricity & free awnings. There are baby changing facilities, heated shower/toilet block; gas cylinder refills are available on-site.

If you want even more luxury there are ‘Super Pitches’ which have mains water; grey waste water collection, electricity hook-up and TV including certain Freeview channels.

Once at Vauxhall Holiday Park there is plenty to do, new attractions for 2010 are the Adventure Climbing Wall and Laser Skirmish.

There is also the fabulous Indoor Tropical Water World, darts, pool, snooker, short mat bowls, gymnasium, football, tennis, kwik cricket and electric go karts.

Special facilities for children include Louie the Lion’s Kidz Club, while there are ‘Arty Kidz’ classes each afternoon and the Tiny Tots Club for the under fives.

When you are feeling hungry the The Reedcutters Restaurant & Coffee Shop is open from 9.00am – 9.00pm seven days a week.

In addition takeaway outlets offer burgers, fried chicken, kebabs, pizzas, jacket potatoes, fish & chips and fresh shellfish.

There is five star entertainment, at no extra cost, every night in the Regency Room while the all new V-Lounge is for the over 18’s and has live music, discos and karaoke.

Prices for a standard pitch are from £16 per night and £18 for a super pitch.

For more information please telephone: 01493 857231or visit www.vauxhall-holiday-park.co.uk where a copy of the brochure can be downloaded.

Kitesurfing event in Cornwall

2010-03-27T09:27:00.000Z

BRITAIN’S best kitesurfers will kick off the 2010 championships with a new course racing event in Cornwall next month.

Athletes including the current ladies world champion will be at Watergate Bay to compete in the British Kite Surfing Association (BKSA) National Course Racing and Wave Jam. The event, hosted by the Extreme Academy, will be held from Friday 16th to Sunday 18th April.

Friday 16th will also see the official announcement that the BKSA has succeeded in attaining recognition for kitesurfing as a sport from Sport England, which will enable clubs and individuals to apply for development grants and Government funding.

BKSA Chairman Richard Gowers said: “2010 is set to be a great year for kitesurfing: we’ve been campaigning for five years to get the sport recognised by Sport England, and this comes at a time where kitesurfing is attracting more new participants than ever.

“Watergate Bay has been involved in the sport from the start - the kitesurf school there was one of the first in the country - so it’s great to be able to have Lisa O’Keefe (Director of Sport at Sport England) with us at Watergate Bay to celebrate this news at our first event of the year.”

With up to 30 competitors taking part in each heat, kitesurf course racing is highly entertaining to watch. Technical ability is key to success, with racers required to sail up, down and across the wind to navigate a triangular course marked by buoys.

Competition will take place in four divisions, split into professional and amateur categories for both men and women.

Westcountry kitesurfers will be well-represented at the event: Cornishman Denzil Williams, from Par near St Austell, is the current British course racing champion and no stranger to kitesurfing at Watergate Bay.

For Denzil, the start of the race is one of the most exciting elements for both competitors and spectators. He said: “It’s a bit like Formula 1 racing where you’ve got the whole field trying to get to the front as the starting hooter blows. You can have up to 30 people in a race, and everyone is trying to time their run so they hit the start line at the same time. It can be chaos and occasionally people’s kites get tangled.

“The discipline is really technical and the standard of competitors is so high that just one mistake can make the difference between winning and losing the race. So much can go wrong in a race, like picking the wrong tack or mis-timing your turn around a buoy. To win races requires fitness, strong legs, the right equipment and more often than not a good bit of luck as well.”

Exmouth’s Steph Bridge will be a strong favourite in the women’s event. As the reigning world course racing champion she knows more than most about the sport.

Off the water the kitesurfers will be celebrating their sport’s new official status at the event party on Saturday 17th April. Starting at 8pm, the £10 tickets include entry to The Beach Hut, a buffet and music from a DJ. Tickets are available from Alison Payne on alison@watergatebay.co.uk

Full details of all events at Watergate Bay can be found at www.watergatebay.co.uk

Free stays for event bookers

2010-03-26T12:29:00.001Z

TODAY (March 26) Park Plaza Sherlock Holmes is launching an exciting promotion to reward event bookers and PAs.

All residential bookings worth over £3,000 booked before 30 September 2010, will equate to a one-night free stay at the hotel for the booker plus £40 high street shopping vouchers.

Michelle Wells, General Manager for Park Plaza Sherlock Holmes, comments:
“PAs and meeting bookers are key influencers in business travel. We wanted to acknowledge their hard work with this reward package, plus give them a chance to enjoy first-hand experience of the hotel and see what we have to offer.”

Park Plaza Sherlock Holmes’ meeting facilities includes seven flexible meeting rooms, with a maximum capacity of 80 theatre-style and 30 boardroom-style. A wide range of state-of-the-art audio-visual computer and technical equipment is also available on request.

Please quote ‘Treat me’ when booking the residential meetings and bookings promotion. The offer applies to all bookings over £3,000 made before 30 September 2010 and is subject to availability. The one-night free stay must be taken within six months of booking and is subject to availability and terms and conditions.

Park Plaza Sherlock Holmes is located on 108 Baker Street, London, W1U 6LJ. Rooms are from £99 per night excluding VAT (www.parkplazasherlockholmes.com; tel: 020 7958 5186. For further information on Park Plaza Hotels, visit www.parkplaza.com Park Plaza Sherlock Holmes is home to the Aurora Spa. For further information, please visit: www.aurora-wellbeing.com

Win a private hotel suite for a year

2010-03-26T09:23:00.001Z

DOLCE Hotels and Resorts is running a competition where one lucky son of a gun will win their very own private suite for a year… and for the weekends they are busy, they can share the privilege with ten of their bestest friends and family.

It’s a simple online application, open to anyone, and I thought you might want to share this opportunity with your readers and avid followers (and maybe enter yourself!!). All you and they need to do is log onto www.dolceprivatesuite.com, choose which European City they want their hotel suite in and enter a few basic details. As with everything… terms and conditions do apply. Competition closes on April 29, 2010.

P.S If you Twitter… here is one ready and waiting to go! “Great travel competition! Dolce Hotels & Resorts is giving away a luxury hotel suite for a year! Log onto www.dolceprivatesuite.com to enter”

P.P.S In case you weren’t sure… Dolce Hotels and Resorts is a collection of four star hotels located in breathtaking regions including Barcelona, Munich, Paris, Brussels, Provence and Frankfurt. www.dolce.com

Dog-friendly coastal properties

2010-03-25T07:48:00.000Z

IN CELEBRATION of National Pet Month, April 3 – May 3, South Devon self-catering specialist, Coast & Country Cottages, are showcasing their dog-friendly properties, perfect for a fun-filled family holiday where four-legged friends can also enjoy some canine capers.

Coast & Country Cottages offer a choice of 90 dog-friendly holiday properties across the South Hams, including Dartmouth and Salcombe and throughout the beautiful coast and countryside in between. With miles of fantastic coastline to walk on and many beaches and pubs that welcome dogs, the South Hams is the perfect destination for a short break or longer holiday that the whole family – and the dog – can enjoy.

Examples of Coast & Country Cottages’ dog-friendly accommodation include:

Well Cottage – a two-bedroom barn conversion benefiting from a quiet location, just a mile from the pretty market town of Kingsbridge and with the sandy beaches at Bantham and Bigbury and the sailing town of Salcombe just a short drive away. The property boasts a two-tiered garden and a large Canadian canoe for tenants to use to explore the nearby estuary. Small dogs are permitted. Sleeping five, prices in 2010 start from £425 per week or £85 per person.

Guillemot – Awarded five-stars by VisitBritain, this luxury four-bedroom terraced cottage is located within a few yards of Hallsands beach on the stunning Start Bay coastline. Dogs are welcome on the beach throughout the year and there are miles of South West Coast Path literally on the doorstep, perfect for exploring with four-legged friends. Boasting stunning sea views, the property also has a garden overlooking the beach. Up to two well-behaved dogs permitted. Sleeping eight, prices in 2010 start from £570 per week or under £72 per person.

Amberwood - a beautiful four-bedroom 17th century cob and thatch cottage located in the pretty village of Galmpton and only a mile from the picturesque fishing village of Hope Cove with its beautiful beaches and cliff top walks. Dogs will love curling up in front of the large Inglenook fireplace. One well-behaved dog permitted. Sleeping eight, prices in 2010 start from £620 per week or under £78 per person.

A charge of £20 per week is made for each dog staying in the property. For more information on dog-friendly properties, or to book, contact Coast & Country Cottages (www.coastandcountry.co.uk / 01548 843773). Alternatively, follow Coast & Country Cottages on Twitter (twitter.com/CandCC) or Facebook.

Break a world record on holiday with Butlins

2010-03-24T16:31:00.000Z

THE global authority on record-breaking achievement, Guinness World Records, and the UK’s leading holiday company, Butlins, are bringing “instant record-breaking” to millions this spring and summer.

Following a very successful trial during half-term, the Guinness World Records Live! Challenge Fair will officially open at Butlins on 2 April, in time for Easter and remain open every weekend until November. Visitors to the three beachside Resorts, Bognor Regis, Minehead and Skegness, will be able to undertake a series of challenges and be adjudicated “on the spot” to possibly earn them a place in the famous book.

Director of Production at Guinness World Records, Paul O’Neill, said: "GWR Live! is about bringing the adrenalin rush of record-breaking to the public - in Butlins we have the perfect partner to deliver instant record breaking entertainment to a live audience."

Mike Godolphin, Head of Entertainment at Butlins said: "We are really excited to be welcoming Guinness World Records to Resort and know our guests will rise to the challenge and thoroughly enjoy smashing records during their breaks."

Record challenges will include Tallest Lego Tower, Fastest Time to Dress ‘Barbie’, Longest Domino Line, a variety of tongue twisters, coin tossing and the Fastest Time to Make up a Bunk Bed – complete with duvets and four pillows. The Guinness World Records Live! Challenge Fair will also offer basketball challenges and a series of physical dexterity tests that will push the co-ordination power of every hopeful record-breaker to the limit.

Hundreds of record holders of all ages are expected to be crowned at Butlins this season, and it is the only place in the UK where holiday-makers can walk in off the street as ordinary people and leave certified Guinness World Records holders.

With Butlins currently reporting an increase of 10% on occupancy for Easter breaks due to the pull of quality entertainment and activities availability is fast selling out. Last minute breaks are still on offer with prices starting from £91pp per break, 2nd – 5th April at Skegness and £84pp per break, 16th – 19th April at Bognor Regis. Both prices based on four people sharing a Silver self-catering apartment. To book a Butlins break call 0845 070 4730 or visit www.butlins.com (The maximum call charge is 2p per minute from a BT landline. Calls from other networks may vary).

Fun for the under fives

2010-03-24T07:40:00.000Z

THIS year Haven Holidays has even more fun for under-fives on their 35 family holiday parks – all included in the price!

Little ones will love to shake, rattle and roll with ‘Tiny Mites’ sessions that use puppets and percussion instruments to encourage them to enjoy music, movement and drama. Suitable for babies from six months there’s lots of actions songs, rhymes and rhythm.

Tiny Mites Music is just one of lots of fun activities for toddlers on offer in Haven kids clubs.

Annabel’s Creative Kitchen takes place on all Haven parks throughout the year and is great way to introduce your little ones to cookie and cake decorating – whilst letting someone else deal with the mess! This exclusive activity, that includes healthy food fun as well, has been created by top children’s chef Annabel Karmel.

Wake and Shake gets the day started with early morning exercise, using lots of lively games and brightly coloured equipment that will tempt kids to join in and burn off their energy. And this year Learn2Swim lessons on Haven parks are free of charge too, with special sessions for parents and babies.

Little kids will love all the games, music, dancing and creative play available every day at Little Cubs club.

‘We welcome families with younger children,’ say Haven. ‘We make sure all our parks have baby-changing areas, buggy friendly access, high-chairs and baby menus readily available in restaurants and baby equipment available to hire to keep packing to a minimum. But most importantly kids are genuinely welcome in all our venues so families can enjoy time together.’

Haven Holidays was the runner up in Tommy’s Parent Friendly Awards in the Best UK Holiday Provider Category announced on Friday 19th March 2010. Haven say, ‘We’re thrilled that parents appreciate all the parent friendly facilities and activities we offer for families staying on our Parks.’

Haven’s prices are family friendly too. Four night breaks at selected parks in April are available from as little as £89 for a family of four in standard accommodation. Prices based on April 19th at a number of parks including Golden Sands near Mablethorpe, Caister near Great Yarmouth and Riviere Sands in Cornwall.

Call 0871 230 1900 or click on www.haven.com

Blasts from the past with Vauxhall Holiday Park

2010-03-23T07:01:00.001Z

GET away for a mid summer break and enjoy some of the biggest hits from the 60s & 70s featuring all live acts at the five-star Vauxhall Holiday Park.

In June it is holding the first ever Summer Festival featuring nine original bands including: Suzi Quatro, The Manfreds, Barron Knights, Vanity Fare, Eddie & The Hotrods and The Rubettes - plus tribute acts playing the music & songs of Madness, The Crickets, Tina Turner, David Essex and Neil Diamond.

Vauxhall Holiday Park is situated in Great Yarmouth, with its 15 miles of golden sandy beaches, and prides itself on catering for the needs of the modern, discerning holiday maker.

When not listening to top bands there is plenty of other things to do, new attractions for 2010 are the Adventure Climbing Wall and Laser Skirmish. There is also the fabulous Indoor Tropical Water World, darts, pool, snooker, short mat bowls, gymnasium, football, tennis, kwik cricket and electric go karts.

When you are feeling hungry the The Reedcutters Restaurant & Coffee Shop is open from 9.00am – 9.00pm seven days a week. In addition takeaway outlets offer burgers, fried chicken, kebabs, pizzas, jacket potatoes, fish & chips and fresh shellfish.

For the Summer Festival you can choose from a variety of luxury holiday homes accommodating up to eight people. New for 2010 is the ‘Falcon’, the ultimate in style and comfort for four people and designed to have a spacious and contemporary feel. It has two flat screen TVs with Freeview, large dining area, ensuite master bedroom plus a further bathroom and fully equipped kitchen.

Prices start at £100 per person per week, or £80 for a short break.

For more information about the Summer Festival which is for over 18’s only and runs between 12-19 June please telephone: 01493 857231 or visit www.vauxhall-holiday-park.co.uk

Unusual sighting at Loch Ness

2010-03-22T08:38:00.003Z

LOCALS and visitors alike have reported an unusual sighting on Loch Ness.

A large spherical object has now been seen on several occasions and has caused a stir throughout the region.

The spherical object which resembles an oversized transparent ball, has been frequently been sighted on Loch Ness, just outside The Inch Hotel and has created much excitement in the surrounding area. Whilst the scientific community often regards sightings of the Loch Ness Monster as a mix of hoaxes and wishful thinking, there is no doubt that these most recent sightings are anything other than “WoW” balls!

WoW balls are the newest contribution to the mysterious waters of Loch Ness. The adrenaline-fuelled WoW ball session involves thrill-seekers climbing inside a giant inflatable sphere and once sealed up and secure, will - in theory - Walk on Water.

Offered as part of an activity package at the Inch Hotel on Loch Ness, the WoW ball experience is one of many outdoor activity experiences available to visitors.

Aiming to attract visitors keen to push the boundaries on the usual hotel break away, The Inch Hotel on Loch Ness has launched a variety of outdoor activity packages, designed to cater to the needs of couples and families that are looking for an action packed holiday.

Working in partnership with outdoor adventure activity company Boots N Paddles, 2010 sees The Inch Hotel launch a series of action packed outdoor activity experiences ranging from an overnight stay to a 3 day break, suitable for groups, families and couples of any age.

In addition to the afore-mentioned walking on water experience, other package options include an Ascent & Descent Adventure Day including climbing and abseiling; a guided canoe trip on Loch Ness; the chance to explore Glen Affric on foot and a demanding mountain biking experience on the Great Glen Way.

The Inch Hotel, which is located on the outskirts of Fort Augustus at the South end of Loch Ness, recently changed to new ownership and is keen to establish itself as an experience-led hotel. Nick Sharp, the General Manager, comments, “We are noticing increased popularity in our hotel packages and as a result have decided to create a series of new experiences which both capitalizes on our unique position on Loch Ness and offers guests something a little bit different than the usual weekend away to a hotel.”

Originally a Victorian Hunting lodge, The Inch Hotel is a family run venue which always feels like the perfect place to come home to at the end of an action-packed day.

The hotel prides itself on its warm and welcoming atmosphere, where guests can truly relax and unwind. Small and intimate, The Inch Hotel is home to 14 individual ensuite bedrooms – some of which have views overlooking Loch Ness, a comfortable living room with roaring log fires, a first class restaurant serving locally sourced, freshly prepared food and an intimate bar with a variety of perfectly aged malts.

Prices start from £120 per person based on 2 adults sharing - includes dinner, bed & breakfast and activity.

For further details and to book call 01456 450900 or visit www.inchhotel.com

iPhone app gives savings on tourist attractions

2010-03-21T09:31:00.000Z

A BRAND new iPhone app taking the UK by storm is helping families make their money go further this Easter holiday.

vouchercloud, the mobile discount voucher application, has signed up hundreds of the country’s leading tourist attractions with major money-savings offers for the family over the holidays and weekends.

The offers include 2-4-1 admissions at top attractions including Chessington World of Adventure, The Eden Project and Bowlplex Bowling as well as great family deals at the best regional family venues around the country.

There are also exclusive discounts in the UK’s favourite restaurants and casual dining outlets – all leaving more money in the budget for those all important chocolate eggs!

Escape to County Cork

2010-03-20T10:39:00.000Z

ENJOY an Irish Easter escape at the five-star Castlemartyr Resort in County Cork for just £117 per person per night for a two-night break including a full Irish breakfast each morning, a gourmet dinner and an optional Easter Monday brunch.

Set amidst 220 acres of breathtaking countryside, this stunning contemporary resort offers the perfect spring getaway with plenty of onsite activities including golf on the inland links course, target archery, laser-clay shooting and walking the estate dogs.

Guests can also indulge in a spot of pampering at The Spa at Castlemartyr, with a wide range of luxury treatments such as the signature Gaelic Escape massage, or enjoy some exercise to burn off those Easter eggs in the impressive wellness centre with its ozone-treated pool, fully equipped gym, and yoga and Pilates studio.

The Easter Break offer is available from 2nd to 6th April** on a bed and breakfast basis in a classic bedroom with a gourmet dinner in The Bell Tower restaurant included, along with full use of the spa facilities.

With more new flight routes operating from the UK to Cork with Aer Lingus and Aer Arran, there are direct flights from a host of regional airports across the UK, as well as a new ferry route direct to Cork from Swansea with Fastnet Line.

For bookings call 00 353 241 219000 or visit www.castlemartyrresort.ie

*Minimum stay two nights

**Easter Monday brunch will cost an additional £50 per person

For best flight deals and regional departures visit www.aerlingus.com

For sailings from Swansea to Cork visit www.fastnetline.com

Egg-cellent hotel offer in Cornwall

2010-03-19T10:36:00.000Z

WITH Easter being the longest bank holiday of the year, Barclay House, two AA rosette awarded restaurant and hotel in Looe Cornwall, is offering a unique gastronomic package including an ‘egg-cellent’ Easter hunt in its extensive gardens.

The 11 bedroom Victorian house hotel asks guests taking advantage of the Easter weekend special to arrive on Good Friday and enjoy dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings at Barclay House, with locally inspired spring menus designed by Head Chef Benjamin Palmer. On the Sunday night dinner is included at newly acquired, award winning Trawlers on the Quay - quite simply, one of the best seafood restaurants in Cornwall.

On the morning of Easter Sunday, the gardens of Barclay house will become a land of adventure and mystery, as guests can take part in a traditional Easter celebration with a twist. An Easter egg and Champagne hunt will take place in the grounds, which will encourage children and adults alike to take part and follow the clues to find prizes including traditional chocolate eggs, Camel Valley sparkling wine and Cornish lust. The hunt will then be followed by celebratory teas, coffees and hot cross buns in the hotel bar.

The multi award winning restaurant at Barclay House prides itself on promoting the very best Cornwall has to offer by serving inspiring local dishes coupled with excellent customer service. The daily changing menus are all freshly prepared using the finest local ingredients including fresh “day boat” fish from the trawlers of Looe - creating a range of local, seasonally inspired dishes. Guests can also relax over the weekend by sampling the hotel’s facilities including an outdoor heated swimming pool, sauna and gym and onsite hair stylist.

Prices start form £499 per couple and the offer includes; participation in the egg hunt, accommodation on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights accompanied by a full Cornish breakfast as well as dinner at Barclay House on Friday and Saturday nights and dinner at Trawlers on the Quay on Sunday evening. For those who cannot stay over, both Barclay House restaurant and Trawlers are open for an Easter Sunday lunch priced at £25 for three courses, or £15 for younger guests.

Looe is easily reached by road, rail and air with flights from London, Glasgow Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle, Dublin and Cork directly to Plymouth, just 19 miles away. Once at the hotel, the local town, harbour and beach are all just a 10 minute walk away. The hotel offers ample car parking free of charge to guests.

Resident proprietor of Barclay House Graham Brooks comments; “We have very recently purchased Trawlers in Looe and thought it would be great to encourage hotel guests of Barclay House to experience both of our restaurants, especially as Trawlers is only a ten minute walk from Barclay House. With this in mind we created this special Easter package, as well as this we wanted to include something traditionally associated with Easter, however we didn’t see why the adults should be left out of the fun, hence the twist of the champagne and egg hunt.”

Family time in Ireland

2010-03-18T17:45:00.001Z

BOOK a fun filled, family break at The Heritage Golf & Spa Resort, Killenard, Ireland this Easter.

From 3rd to 8th April, 2010, The Heritage Golf & Spa Resort, Killenard, located 1 hour South-West of Dublin, has an exciting itinerary of complimentary activities for all the family to enjoy including Arts & Crafts, Giant Games, Easter Egg Hunt, Family Movies and much more.

The luxury resort has a unique and memorable show for resort guests on Monday April 5th when Wildlife Expert ‘Jungle Dave’, as seen on ‘The Late Late Show, Ireland’ and the children’s Saturday Morning TV programme, ‘Am Satitude’, will bring some of the worlds’ most exotic creatures including a giant 12ft Snake, an 18ft Anaconda, Scorpions, a Crocodile, Tarantulas, Iguana, Insects, Lizards and Polly the Cockatoo. One hour shows of ‘Dave’s Jungle’ will take place at the Heritage on Easter Monday at both 2pm & 3.10 pm.

This full interactive experience is safe and child friendly, educational and character building. A chance to meet, interact and learn about these wonderful animals.

Whilst the Children soak up the excitement, Mum’s can relax and indulge in a truly world class spa experience with a choice of over 70 treatments by Pevonia Botanica in the award winning Spa and travel through the unrivalled heat and cooling journey of The Heritage Spa Experience.

Dad’s can unwind on the 18 hole championship golf course, designed by Seve Ballesteros and Jeff Howes. Baby sitting services are also available for parents needing a break from the kids.

This 98 bedroom luxury hotel also offers 24 self catering apartments ideal for families.

For further information visit www.theheritage.com

Golf, golf lessons, junior golf camps, babysitting services & Spa treatments are subject to availability and it is recommended to pre-book these services.

Ironbridge Gorge is a beautiful tourist destination

2010-03-18T06:52:00.000Z

THE Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site and its neighbouring town of Telford are peacefully set in the heart of beautiful Shropshire surrounded by glorious countryside, quiet villages, stately homes and leisure attractions.

At the centre is the iconic Iron Bridge, which spans the River Severn and remains an enduring symbol of the Industrial Revolution that took place here around three hundred years ago.

Heavy industry has long disappeared from the valley, the mines are closed and the ironworks silent but many of the historic buildings remain as a testimony to the area’s industrial past. Today the Gorge is a place of beauty with the restored buildings set either side of the River Severn’s wooded valley.

More about the region’s fascinating past can be discovered at the new landmark Visitor Centre in Blists Hill Victorian Town, one of the ten Ironbridge Gorge Museums. The Severn Valley Railway will also be celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, while a new Bar & Grill will open in the spring at Weston Park sizzling up lunch and dinner all year round, and senior citizens will be able to join Silver Safaris being introduced at Hawkstone Historic Park and Follies from Easter.

The World Heritage Sites’ only brewery has just opened its first pub, the Old Fighting Cocks at Oakengates, which they have recently restored to its Victorian splendour. Also open to visitors, the Ironbridge Brewery visitor centre is offering mini tours and has a shop and bar serving real ales brewed on the premises.

Gateway to Blists Hill
Part of a massive redevelopment at Blists Hill, the Visitor Centre now acts as a dramatic gateway to the open air Victorian town and World Heritage Site. The main exhibition hall greets visitors with a stunning cacophony of sight and sound as massive images are projected on nine metre high walls telling the harsh reality of life during the evolution of mining and hot metal industries.

Also new is Canal Street, a wonderful parade of shops authentically copied from the period originals where local townsfolk go about their daily lives and an artisans’ corner with the work of plumbers, tinsmiths and decorative plasterers on display. Other developments at Blists Hill include an Incline Lift, which is reminiscent of the historic lifts that once hauled goods up and down the sides of the Severn Gorge, and the narrow gauge Clay Mine Railway. This takes visitors on a short journey into a blacked out ‘clay-mine’, where a fantastic audio-visual show depicts the ‘explosive’ story of a father and son team of clay miners.

Severn Valley Railway’s first public passenger train steamed out of Bridgnorth on 23rd May 1970 on the short four-mile run to Hampton Loade. In four decades the SVR has grown from its original concept of a handful of enthusiastic amateurs organising Sunday steam-ups in the overgrown, abandoned BR sidings at Bridgnorth, to become one of the UK’s most polished ‘heritage’ tourist attractions, hosting more than a quarter of a million visitors each year, and with a turnover in excess of £6 million.

Steam locomotives now pull vintage trains taking visitors on a sentimental journey through 16 miles of glorious countryside from Bridgnorth to Kidderminster and return. The Engine House Visitor Centre at Highley tells the history of the railway and includes a replica of the pub where the first planning meeting for the formation of the railway society took place.

May 22nd and 23rd will see a special 40th Birthday Party while a ‘reunion’ theme is expected to be a feature of the SVR’s big ‘Autumn Steam Gala’ in September, when several ex-resident locomotives, which came to the Severn Valley line in its early days, will make celebrity appearances on the Kidderminster-Bridgnorth line.

The Ironbridge Gorge Museums and Severn Valley Railway along with Weston Park, the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford and Hawkstone Historic Park and Follies are known as Shropshire’s star attractions.

Weston Park, the 17th century ancestral home of the Earls of Bradford with around 1,000 acres of gardens and parklands, restored its former Granary last year, which opened as an art gallery and farm shop selling locally sourced produce. From spring 2010 a new 60-seater restaurant, the Granary Bar & Grill, will also be opening in the old malting house with an open plan kitchen and split-level seating area with views over Church Pool and the estate cottages.

The menu will feature freshly prepared dishes using the region's finest produce with emphasis on 'easy eating' in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Combining history with adventure in a unique setting Hawkstone Historic Park and Follies is an 18th century ‘theme park’ with a fantasy landscape of rugged rocks, caves and grottos plus wonderful views and walks. Every Thursday Hawkstone will be providing a complimentary Land Rover ‘Silver Safari’ service to key high points in the park allowing access for anyone unable to walk up the steep climbs.

Ironbridge and Telford has a wide choice of accommodation for visitors ranging from four star hotels with dining awards to traditional country inns, farmhouses and comfy B&Bs; there are also quality camping and caravan sites and cosy cottages for those who prefer to self-cater. For further information, or to obtain a copy of the Ironbridge and Telford visitor and accommodation guide, Tel: 01952 567562 or log onto www.visitironbridge.co.uk.

Join Gordon Banks for dinner

2010-03-17T06:51:00.000Z

BY EARLY July, we’ll be approaching the height of World Cup fever and hopefully cheering on Wayne Rooney and co in the quarter finals.

What better way to soak up the full atmosphere of the world’s biggest football competition than in the company of one of England’s greatest heroes of the game Gordon Banks OBE.

The legendary goalkeeper will be hosting a private dinner at Warner Leisure Hotels’ magnificent Littlecote House Hotel, Berkshire, when guests will have the chance to ask him about his illustrious career and especially England’s greatest moment of sporting glory, the 1966 World Cup.

During the evening there will be plenty of opportunity to ask questions and take photographs.

The VIP dinner is just one of many outstanding breaks at Grade 1 listed Littlecote House Hotel this year including hot air balloon flights, horse racing trips, and a Psychic School featuring Jayne Wallace, one of Britain’s top mediums. That’s in addition to a full programme of live entertainment that ranges from Acker Bilk and His Paramount Jazz Band to an evening with popular comedian Tom O’Connor.

The three-night weekend break from Friday July 2nd costs from £309 for an Ambassador Room with a £60 per person supplement for the private dinner with Gordon Banks OBE. The dinner with Gordon Banks takes place in the evening on Sunday 4th July.

For more information visit www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk or call 0800 1388 399.

Last-minute family breaks for Easter

2010-03-16T17:24:00.000Z

YES, the sun is shining, the daffodils are blooming and Easter is only a couple of weeks away.

If you haven’t booked an Easter break there’s still time to treat the kids to a couple of days away with Haven Holidays – and the good news is that it won’t cost the earth!

Haven are offering Bank Holiday breaks on selected parks from less than £200 for a family of up to six people. Three days arriving on Good Friday, in a ‘Standard’ two bedroom holiday home costs from just £199 and includes a fun-packed package of Easter activities, free Learn2Swim lessons, free football coaching, kid’s clubs and a whole programme of daytime and evening entertainment.

All Haven parks have tip top facilities with heated leisure pools, multi-sports courts and a range of fun extras including Adventure golf, climbing walls, pitch ‘n putt, golf courses – even horse-riding, fishing and boating lakes.

The special Easter deal is available at Riviere Sands in Cornwall, Doniford Bay in Somerset, Reighton Sands in Yorkshire and Presthaven Sands in North Wales. Check the website on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900 for immediate bookings and details of other special offers.

Relax this Easter with a cottage holiday

2010-03-16T06:33:00.000Z

GET away with the whole family this Easter holiday and experience the magic of Pembrokeshire! Coastal Cottages have some fantastic properties to suit you and your family’s needs, with great locations so there is something for everyone!

For a get together with family or friends Coed Cadw and Coed Cadw Farmhouse are adjoining cottages in a lovely peaceful setting, yet only a short walk away from the local village pub with its recommended restaurant. A short drive away is the town of Newport with its beach, golf club and many pubs and restaurants that need sampling!

Coed Cadw farmhouse is a semi detached, traditional stone farmhouse situated in the Pretty Nevern valley. The farmhouse has been renovated throughout but keeps many of the original features with exposed beams and slate floors running throughout, the wood burning stove set in an inglenook makes the lounge a cosy retreat. The Pretty country kitchen opens up onto an enclosed and lawned garden where you can sit and enjoy a drink in the evening when the children are all tucked up.

Adjoining the Farmhouse and enjoying the tranquil setting is Coed Cadw Cottage. This charming cottage is full of character, attractive furnishings throughout blend well together. The large open plan living room has patio doors which open out onto the enclosed lawn, bringing the outside in.

The two cottages can be booked together, for a relaxing break, sleeping 10 in this wonderful part of Pembrokeshire.

A weeks stay in Coed Cadw Farmhouse and Coed Cadw starting on the 27th March on a special offer price would be just £774 (saving £87) sleeping 10 people.

01437 772760, www.coastalcottages.co.uk

Combine a short break with a theme park visit

2010-03-15T17:41:00.000Z

AS ALL the major theme parks open their doors for the 2010 season and with the Easter and half-term holidays fast approaching, what better way to enjoy a short break than combining it with a trip to a theme park to try out the latest new attractions.
This year sees a new th13teen rollercoaster at Alton Towers, a whole new pirate themed land at Legoland Windsor and the new SAW Alive horror maze at Thorpe Park to name but a few. Short break specialist Superbreak combines overnight accommodation with tickets to the parks for the ultimate thrill packed break.

What’s new for 2010
Alton Towers – New Ride TH13TEEN
The ultimate rollercoaster, Th13teen, launches on 20th March 2010. Th13teen will be based on the discovery of an unearthed burial site in an area of unexplored woodland known as the Dark Forest. Built on the site of the old Corkscrew rollercoaster, visitors will be invited to take a petrifying ride on Th13teen, venturing into the seemingly living and breathing Dark Forest. There they will face an unknown horror that has been unleashed from the ancient crypt The Ride has been developed with the world’s leading coaster and thrill consultants who have collaborated to combine the ultimate elements of physical and psychological fear – to create what experts are dubbing a ‘PSYCHOASTER’

A package costs from £173 per family of four (two adults and two children sharing a room) staying one night at a supersaver mystery hotel in Stoke on Trent on a b/b basis with two consecutive day entrance ticket to the park. Children aged 4-11years. Valid from 20 March onwards.

Legoland Windsor – New land for 2010 – Pirates Landing
Enjoy a whole new land where visitor can try out their swashbuckling, seafaring skills at the Pirate Training Camp, an interactive adventure play area with so much to explore. Or climb aboard for a breathtaking ride on the new swinging LEGO galleon, the Jolly Rocker – the first ever pirate ship in any LEGOLAND park, swinging to an incredible 18 metres high! Then set sail for a soaking and follow the pirates on a hunt for treasure on the “explosively” enhanced Pirate Falls Dynamite Drench. With new interactive water cannons, it’s one adventure that’s bound to go with a splash! There is also a new pirate-themed live action show for 2010, ‘the Pirates of Skeleton Bay’, the first in the park’s history, featuring death-defying acrobatics and swashbuckling.

A package costs from £201 per family of four (two adults and two children sharing a room) staying one night at the three star Premier Inn London Heathrow on a room only basis with a two consecutive day entrance ticket to the park. Children aged 4-11years. Valid from 2 April – end of May at weekends.

Thorpe Park - New for Spring 2010 - Saw Alive
Set to be the world’s most extreme horror attraction, SAW Alive will test visitors to Face their Fears in a new, year round live horror maze featuring 6 iconic scenes from the terrifying 'SAW' films! This theme park is aimed at adults and thrill seekers and many rides are not recommended for young children. And don’t forget – there is also the ‘SAW – The Ride’ which opened in 2009 and is the world’s first ever horror movie-themed rollercoaster with a ‘beyond vertical’ drop of 100º from a terrifying height of 100ft.

A package costs from £155 per person staying one night at the three star Premier Inn London Heathrow on a room only basis with a two day entrance ticket to the park. Valid from 2 April – end of May at weekends.

For more information and bookings call Superbreak 0871 221 4444
or visit www.superbreak.com/agents

Haven's £40m investment unveiled

2010-03-10T16:36:00.000Z

HAVEN Holiday parks all around the UK are preparing to start the new season on March 19th by unveiling the results of a £40million winter investment programme.

Holidaymakers booking an early season break will be amongst the first to try out the new facilities at Haven’s 35 parks. New attractions range from Adventure Golf courses, new sports and play areas, improvements to venues and ShowBars, upgraded accommodation and, best of all, two fabulous Space Bowls giving guests the ultimate ‘Wow’ factor at Combe Haven near Hastings and Marton Mere at Blackpool!

Swimmers using the Space Bowls can expect a high speed ride down the flumes before spinning around the bowl and dropping into the pool. Great fun but not for the faint-hearted!

Haven say, ‘We’ve invested £40 million in our parks to ensure that families can enjoy even better facilities and some spectacular new innovations. But we’ve made sure our prices have remained affordable to provide the best possible value for money.’

Spring breaks start from as little as £99 for a family of up to six in ‘Superior’ holiday homes on three night breaks from March 19th or four night breaks from March 22nd. The special deal is available at a wide choice of parks including The Orchards near Clacton in Essex, Golden Sands near Mablethorpe, Hafan y Mor in North Wales and Haven’s flagship park, Devon Cliffs near Exmouth.

If you can’t get away until the Easter holidays Combe Haven is offering breaks from April 9th at £179 for a family of six and Marton Mere is offering Bank Holiday Breaks, arriving 2nd April from £299 – both prices based on ‘Superior’ bedroom holiday homes.

For bookings and more info call 0871 230 1900 or click on www.haven.com

Antiques break with TV expert Eric Knowles

2010-03-10T06:23:00.000Z

DO YOU have an heirloom in your attic, or a treasure in the shed?

If you think there’s a chance your car boot bargain might turn out to be a valuable antique, find out on a special holiday break featuring Antiques Roadshow expert, Eric Knowles.

The special ‘Antiques with Eric Knowles’ Experience Break is happening at Warner Leisure Hotels’ magnificent Thoresby Hall Hotel & Spa, on the edge of the Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire, on April 5th.

The TV presenter and author will join the four-night midweek holiday for two days when he will be available to give you a valuation on your treasures, answer your questions and present a talk about the fascinating world of antiques.

The break coincides with the Newark Antiques Fair, Europe’s biggest antiques and collectibles event where you can browse around as many as 4,000 stalls offering a huge variety of furniture, architectural pieces, porcelain, pottery, silver, jewellery, paintings, books, maps, prints, and toys. Transport to the Antiques Fair and the entrance cost are included in the price of the Experience Break.

Grade I listed Thoresby Hall is the perfect setting to be inspired by historic art and culture. Dating back to 1875, the beautiful stately house was designed by Anthony Salvin with gardens by Sir Humphrey Repton and parklands landscaped by Capability Brown. The extraordinary Great Hall which rises through three storeys is steeped in history, and legend has it that Robin Hood exchanged vows with Maid Marion in the nearby church of St Mary. During your stay the full story of the mansion will be brought to life by the Thoresby Players.

While the hotel may be historic, the quality of its four-star accommodation and level of service with superb facilities on site is of the highest contemporary standards. There are three outstanding restaurants to choose from and a wide range of leisure facilities including a leisure centre with swimming pool, sauna, steamroom, bubble pool and fitness room, plus a state-of-the-art spa and a full programme of evening entertainment.

Prices for an Ambassador Room start at £314 per person including three-course dinner, bed and hearty breakfast. There’s an £85pp supplement for the Antiques Experience with Eric Knowles. For more information visit www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk or ring 0800 1 388 399.

Big weekends with Butlins

2010-03-09T19:23:00.000Z

BUTLINS Big Weekends are just one big unforgettable party!

Butlins adults-only Big Weekends pack all the fun of a fortnight into just three days with a party atmosphere, big name headline acts and top tribute bands all included in the price of the break.

* We Love the 70s, 26th – 29th March, Butlins Minehead @ £75 pp per break (including accommodation, most facilities and all live entertainment)
The Real Thing, Brotherhood of Man, Alvin Stardust, Richard Street’s Temptations and Les McKeown’s Legendary Bay City Rollers appear live on stage to bring the true feel of the 70s to life. They are supported by tributes to ABBA, Tom Jones and T-Rex. To book a Butlins break call 0845 070 4730 or visit www.bigweekends.com

* 80’s Madness, 16th – 19th April, Butlins Skegness @ £57pp per break (including accommodation, most facilities and all live entertainment)
The Teenies are the new 80s so get a taste of the mega-stars of the original decade at this break when Bananarama, Toyah Willcox, Bad Manners and Musical Youth all appear live on stage. To book a Butlins break call 0845 070 4730 or visit www.bigweekends.com

(All guests must be aged 18+ years)

Is home exchange the new stay-cation?

2010-03-09T17:52:00.000Z

If the ‘stay-cation’ was the holiday phenomenon of 2009, could 2010 be the year of the home exchange?

Millions of Britons chose to spend their holidays at home last year as the economic recession took hold, and with confidence still not fully restored, would-be travellers are continuing to look for ways to keep their holiday costs down.

One creative option is a home exchange: ‘swapping’ your property with that of another homeowner elsewhere in the world - cutting the cost of accommodation almost to zero in the process.

“Last year seemed to be all about saving money by staying at home, while this year there’s a greater consumer willingness to travel but still an emphasis on affordability,” commented Dianne Stewart of global home exchange site Homes-Club International (www.homes-club.com).

“A home exchange is the perfect solution - providing travellers with potential access to a range of accommodation across the world while helping them to save money too.”

A glance at a leading online travel website shows just how significant these savings could be, regardless of destination. A week-long stay from 24 July in a centrally-located three-star hotel would cost a family of four £973 in Bath and £1,035 in Geneva.

Further afield, the same seven nights would cost £830 in Perth (Australia), £607 in Cape Town and £1,030 in Manhattan, New York.

“Home exchange can also provide a more comfortable experience for families - a private house or apartment is generally more spacious and will have more home comforts than a hotel room or suite,” added Ms Stewart.

The home exchange concept started in the 1950s, largely in the USA at first, then spreading across the world as demand for international travel increased and levels of home ownership grew. Although still a relatively small part of the overall travel market, it is growing quickly, partly in response to the global economic downturn.

Home exchange typically works on a membership scheme basis, with annual membership of Homes-Club International currently priced at just £25. After joining, members are free to browse the site to identify properties in their chosen destination and make direct contact with the owners to negotiate a property swap. If second homes are involved members can use each others’ properties at different times and negotiate over length of stay.

To ensure privacy and security, full property details can be viewed only within the password-protected members’ area of the site. Homes-Club International membership is open to anyone with a connection with independent schools anywhere in the world - past and present parents, former pupils, staff and governors.

A free guide to what to do on holiday

2010-03-09T06:31:00.000Z

WEST Country cottage specialist, Helpful Holidays, produces a free annual guide for its holidaymakers to help them make the best of their time away.

Entitled What shall we do today? it contains discount vouchers and deals for 80 major attractions throughout the South West and is sent to guests before their holidays so they can plan their outings in advance, saving valuable research time and money while on holiday.

This year the booklet features a wonderful variety of places to visit throughout Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset including gardens, historic houses, castles and family adventure parks, as well as wildlife and activity centres. New this year is Extreme West, which is offering a 10% discount on their South West activity gift vouchers – experiences range from Tiger Moth flying to quad biking, sailing and falconry.

Attractions don’t pay for inclusion, but are selected on their willingness to offer a financial incentive to visitors; deals range from discounted entry for one free child with every full-paying adult, or group rates for individual entry.

Helpful Holidays has also included its own top ten suggestions for walks, beaches, places to eat, houses and gardens to visit, children’s attractions and West Country wonders such as the Eden Project, Minack Theatre and Lundy Island.

Other useful pages list farmers’ markets, walking and cycling trails, eateries and a selection of the most interesting events, as well as award-winning beaches for each of the four counties.

For information about Helpful Holidays’ portfolio of over 600 places to stay in the West Country, visit www.helpfulholidays.com or call 01647 434063 for a brochure.

Converted hayloft is ideal base for coast visitors

2010-03-08T17:45:00.000Z

A FORMER hayloft and stables in Bamburgh have been sympathetically converted to provide an exceptional base for visitors to the North East’s Heritage Coast!

Wynding Down is just 200 metres from the sandy beach and Bamburgh Golf Club.

It is a well appointed, three bedroom property, tastefully furnished and equipped to a very high standard providing excellent accommodation in this sought after part of the village.

The sitting room has an open fire, with views of Bamburgh Castle on one side and the sea on the other.

Prices for a week’s stay start at £295.

For full details please contact Northumbria Coast & Country Cottages on 01665 830783 or visit: www.northumbria-cottages.co.uk.

Powerboat racing in Cornwall

2010-03-07T10:15:00.000Z

THE opening races of the Zapcat powerboat season will take place in Cornwall this year, when the Blue Chip Newquay Zapcat Grand Prix race weekend kicks off the season at Fistral Beach on the weekend of 24 and 25 April.

Blue Chip Newquay, which has over 170 high-end self-catering properties in Newquay, has played a key role in securing the race for the town as the season’s curtain opener, working closely with Tourism Newquay, Bare Feet Promotions and the Zapcat Grand Prix race organisers, ZCR Ltd.

The Blue Chip Newquay Grand Prix weekend is the first major event for Newquay, which has become known as the UK’s experience capital, and will play a significant role in attracting early season tourists, generating valuable income for the town. Early estimates suggest that as much as £750,000+ could be brought into the local economy as a direct result of the race weekend.

On the evening of St George’s Day (Friday 23rd), a grand Zapcats Parade will take place through the town featuring competitors and boats, raising awareness of the Grand Prix, and attracting visitors to come to the event over the weekend.

Viewing will be free and a range of entertainment and freshly prepared food and drink will be available for spectators. Opportunities to meet the race teams and see the powerboats up close will also be laid on to encourage a growing following for the championship, which already has international status.

Practice sessions will take place on the Friday, followed by spectacular races on the Saturday and Sunday at the north end of the beach featuring around 40 teams; the southern end of Fistral Beach will remain open for public use. Up to 16 heats of racing will take place culminating in two divisional finals each day. Each daily round will earn the competitors vital points towards the prestigious National Championships, the Services, Rookie, and Team, Mixed, Home Nations and Surf titles, all of which will come to their tense finales in October.

Teams, including local Royal Marines from RAF St Mawgan, will cut through the surf, performing daring and spectacular aerial leaps as they propel themselves through the sea at speeds of up to 50 mph. The Course will take the Zapcats out to the Fistral Headland before turning south and then returning parallel to the beach giving spectators an excellent view from every vantage point.

Commenting on the race, Alan Taylor, Managing Director of Blue Chip Vacations and Blue Chip Newquay, said: “2010 is the tenth anniversary for both Blue Chip Vacations and Zapcat racing in the UK. As soon as we realised that there was a possibility of bringing this awesome event to Newquay, we jumped at the opportunity. We realise just how important it is to support events that grab the attention of visitors and inspire them to stay during weeks that they might not normally consider.

“Over the last three years, late April has been a belter for warm weather and we’re confident that, combined with low off-season rates available through www.bluechipnewquay.com the Blue Chip Newquay Zapcats Grand Prix weekend will be a draw for many thousands of visitors and spectators from across the South West and the UK.”

Blue Chip Newquay has properties in some of Newquay’s most iconic buildings, many of which are set overlooking the sea, the town or the golf-course. Properties that are particularly close to Fistral Beach, which will host the Zapcats event, include Zinc, Bredon Court, Ocean 1, Pentire Mews, The Vista, Pearl, Trehellan Heights and Headland Point.

Other properties within a 15 minute walk include Rocklands, Glendorgal, Golden Bay, Harbour View, Seapoint and The Old Edwardian.

Martin Jupp, Managing Director of ZCR and Race coordinator for the Zapcat Championship added: “This is the first time a Zapcat Racing event has been held at Fistral Beach and we are expecting a fantastic turnout of race teams, supporters and spectators alike. Zapcats in the surf is always great entertainment with plenty of thrills and spills!”

Richard Wilcox, Business Development Manager for Tourism Newquay said: “The Grand Prix is a fantastic spectacle and will help kick-start what we hope will be a great season for Newquay. This event is the perfect platform to show off all that is exciting, innovative and fun about Newquay, appealing to people of all ages from across the globe. And importantly, by engaging with Newquay businesses and organisations, we can ensure that the Zapcats weekend works for them and has a positive economic impact that is felt across the town."

Guy Thomas, Cornwall Council Newquay Town Centre Manager, says: "The Zap Cat event is a great addition to Newquay's events calendar and offers an exciting spectacle for everyone to go and see. The boats are great fun to watch and an event of this calibre helps to showcase the town as a venue for top quality sporting events of all natures. I hope this will become a regular event in Newquay and it is a very positive step for the town".

Walking festival is just Scilly

2010-03-06T09:11:00.001Z

IF YOU want to have the opportunity to take part in the UK’s most westerly walking festival - WalkScilly2010 – then you need to get your skates on as well as your walking boots, with booking levels for the festival well ahead of schedule and places going fast.

Driven largely by a new range of walks, and also coinciding with the Isles of Scilly Folk festival, there are more reasons than ever before to explore the wonder of the Isles of Scilly and enjoy the talents of local musicians.

Some of the themed walks at what is the fourth Walk Scilly Festival include ‘Tresco Coastal and Inland Wild Food Walk’, ‘Sing Peninnis’, Across the Sands to Samson’ and ‘Higher Moors Children Walk’.

To ensure that WalkScilly remains, by its very nature, a small and friendly festival, all of the walks are capped at 20 participants and graded by difficulty with something for everyone from seasoned walkers to absolute beginners.

And with the Festival coinciding with the Folk Festival, on many evenings there will be music to be heard from local bands including Six Wet Fish, who will feature at the opening night at event sponsor St Mary’s Hall Hotel.

“We are delighted with booking levels for this year’s festival, which keeps gets bigger and better every year. Our advice to anyone who was thinking about coming to the festival is to book now to avoid the risk of disappointment,” said Walk Scilly organiser Euan Rodger of Event Scilly.

As part of the festival, travel operators and accommodation owners have organised a range of special offers. For more information on the event, and a list of special offers visit www.walkscilly.co.uk

Cracking good offer for Easter

2010-03-05T09:02:00.000Z

FAMILY friendly hotel group, Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, has launched a cracking good offer for Easter.
Perfect for families looking to enjoy an Easter holidays break in the UK, Macdonald Hotels is offering up to 50% off rates for stays between 31 March and 25 April 2010.
Available at each of Macdonald Hotels’ 40 four and five star properties in the UK, families can not only take advantage of the fantastic discounts, but will also receive a £10 voucher per room, per night, which can be redeemed against a choice of golf, spa or dinner at their chosen hotel.
Included in the offer, two children up to the age of 12 will stay for free and go free at breakfast.
And if that wasn’t enough, the offer coincides with Macdonald Hotels’ partnership with Thorntons, the nation’s favourite chocolate company, who together are offering Thorntons Metropolitan Easter eggs and boxes of Metropolitan chocolates – the newest range of must-have chocolates - at selected hotels.

Available at selected hotels including, Aviemore Highland Resort, Forest Hills Hotel & Resort, Craxton Wood, Elmers Court Hotel & Resort, Berystede Hotel & Spa and Linden Hall Golf & Country Club, each property will be giving away three sets, comprising of a Metropolitan Easter egg and box of Metropolitan chocolates.

The up to 50% off plus a £10 voucher per room, per night is available at all Macdonald Hotels on bookings placed between 25 February and 25 April 2010 for stays between 31 March and 25 April.

To book this offer please call Central Reservations on 0844 879 9200 or visit www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/egg, quoting promotional code EAM. Terms and conditions apply.
To check out some of the other delicious chocolates in the Thorntons Easter range, or to find your nearest store, visit www.thorntons.co.uk

Chocolate Fact Box:
• The first Thorntons chocolate shop was opened in Sheffield by Joseph William Thornton
• Thorntons have been making chocolates for over 100 years and are now the UK’s largest independent confectioner
• Chocolates should be kept at room temperature (between 18-20ºc) and not in the fridge!
• If you’re tasting lots of chocolate varieties, sip a little water or lime juice between pieces as this will cleanse your palate
• Depending on the type of cocoa bean used, you should be able to pick up sweet, spicy, fruity, flowery, grassy, nutty or even woody aromas from your chocolate

Pet-friendly coastal cottages

2010-03-04T18:01:00.000Z

ON A unique, special website - www.thewoofguide.co.uk - Coastal Cottages of Pembrokeshire highlights lots of pet-friendly properties and also has sections highlighting dog-friendly pubs, restaurants and activities.

All featured cottages have been specially reviewed – with a ‘paw rating’ - for their suitability for five categories of pet – everything from pups to pensioners.

For example, a week’s stay at Rose Cottage (sleeps four) in the tiny hamlet of Lochvane near Newport is £427 in mid April. The cottage is set in two acres of gardens and is minutes from sandy beaches and the coastal path.

Tel: 01437 772760, www.coastalcottages.co.uk or visit www.thewoofguide.co.uk

Create an Easter egg on holiday

2010-03-02T16:40:00.001Z

LAKESIDE Coastal Village, one of 13 Warner Leisure Hotels, is offering the option to create your own Belgian chocolate egg.

If previous Easter eggs have had too much box and not enough chocolate, this is your chance to make something that meets your eggspectations!

Lakeside, situated on Hayling Island offers ‘adult only’ leisure breaks in a range of Lodges and Chalets set amongst landscaped gardens overlooking the Solent – so you can avoid sharing your hand-made egg with any chocolatey-fingered children.

The ‘coastal village’ has a wide range of indoor and outdoor leisure options including tennis, pitch ‘n putt, swimming, indoor and outdoor bowling and a games room with full size snooker and darts.

Easter breaks, arriving on April 2nd, start at £194 per person for three nights including dinner and breakfast based on two people sharing a Standard chalet. The ‘Le Salon du Chocolat’ Experience is available at a supplement of £50. Click on www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk or call 0800 1 388 399.

Warner Leisure Hotels have all sorts of Experiences available over Easter including Golf Clinics, Art for Pleasure and a cruise on the Norfolk Broads.

Thoresby Hall, near Sherwood Forest has the advantage of a fabulous spa with a range of state of the art warming and cooling experiences including Rhassoul mud-bathing and an ice cave. There’s a choice of restaurants, sport and leisure options and a regular entertainment package that includes music, live bands and a Late Lounge with dancing until the small hours.

Easter breaks, arriving on April 2nd, start at £284 per person for three nights including dinner and breakfast based on two people sharing an Ambassador Room. A Spa and Lunch package is £45. Click on www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk or call 0800 1 388 399.

Book an Easter break at Cricket St Thomas,near Chard in Somerset and take a walk through the glorious Somerset countryside - with a llama!

Grade II listed, Cricket St Thomas is a Regency mansion built in the 1820’s – Easter breaks are adult only and offer sports and leisure options as well as nightly entertainment.

Three nights from April 2nd cost £275 per person including dinner and breakfast based on two people sharing an Ambassador Room. Llama walking is an additional £50 per person. Click on www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk or call 0800 1 388 399.

Family holidays are good for you - official!

2010-03-02T06:16:00.000Z

A FAMILY holiday is good for you – and that’s official.

Research carried out by the Family Holiday Association has shown that tourism can bring remarkable benefits to family life. Holidays give families the chance to spend quality time together away from the stress and worries of every day life and also provide a great way of increase social networks and making new friends.

And the more activities available to distract you from your every day worries, the greater the chance to focus on your family and forget about work. It’s hard to click on your Blackberry when you’re playing football and you won’t hear it ring when you’re in the swimming pool!

‘We try and include a whole range of activities to appeal to all ages,’ say Haven Holidays, who have 35 family holiday parks around the UK. ‘We offer fencing lessons, football coaching, archery, golf, horse-riding, climbing walls and a whole range of activities in our swimming pools from swimming lessons to Aqua Gliders and Water Walkerz. And kids clubs are a great way for youngsters to get to know each other and a good ice-breaker for Mums and Dads too!’

Haven also offer a full programme of daytime and evening entertainment with pantos, circus performances and wrestling as well as music, stage-shows and cabaret. Kid’s clubs range from Little Cubs for 1-4 year olds, club R & B for 5-11’s and T-Co Zone for 12-16’s along with a packed programme of talent contests, family quizzes, competitions and activities for all ages.

Fantastic value for money, many Haven activities and the full programme of entertainment are included in the price. An Easter weekend break for a family of six at Haven Holidays’ Thorpe Park near Cleethorpes, arriving 2nd April starts at £279 – a saving of £136 on the brochure price.

For more information and details of other special offers click on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900.

Top 10 'Best of British' homes for rent

2010-03-01T21:36:00.000Z

WITH varied landscape, magnificent scenery and rich cultural heritage, a holiday at home in Britain offers so much more than just a ‘bucket and spade’ and holds plenty of surprises for those who have never tried it before.

As well as vibrant cities, arresting coastlines and sandy beaches, the British countryside boasts outstanding natural beauty with its rolling valleys, mountains and hills. HomeAway Holiday-Rentals, the UK’s largest holiday rentals website, offers travellers a rare opportunity to rent some of the best of British homes.

There are currently over 6,000 private holiday homes in the UK listed on www.HomeAway.co.uk, from the Scottish Highlands to the Cornish Coast, providing accommodation for every type of holiday and budget.

The Top 10 ‘Best of British’ homes on HomeAway.co.uk

1. Baronial Loch side house set on the banks of the Loch, Scottish Highlands
7 Bedrooms, Sleeps 14. From £1,650 per week
This is a Scottish Baronial self catering house. www.homeaway.co.uk/p86614

2. Stunning 19th century country house in Northumberland
2 Bedrooms, Sleeps 24. From £4,100 per week
Guyzance Hall is a beautiful gentleman's residence. www.homeaway.co.uk/p417412

3. 17th century manor house with spa, Oxfordshire Cotswolds
12 Bedrooms, Sleeps 32. From £6,000 per week
The 70 acre Cotswold country estate features an organic parkland, pasture and woodland and a gorgeous 17th century, Grade II listed manor house. www.homeaway.co.uk/p405572

4. Magnificent Grade II listed Medieval House, Suffolk
12 Bedrooms, Sleeps 24. £4,950 per week
A magnificent 15th century Grade II listed, Medieval House for your own personal use, The Old Neptune.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p9479

5. Jacobean mansion overlooking the beautiful Gipping Valley, Suffolk
9 Bedrooms, Sleeps 21. From £2,097 per week. www.homeaway.co.uk/p424509

6. English country estate with home cinema, Berkshire
5 Bedrooms, Sleeps 11. £2,600 per week
This is an English country house with plenty of indoor space for entertaining family and friends, set in 20 acres of estate land and glorious gardens with mature plants and trees. www.homeaway.co.uk/p418796

7. 11th century moated manor house in Surrey
7 Bedrooms, Sleeps 16. From £4,805 per week
This 11th Century moated manor house nestles on the edge of the Surrey Hills. www.homeaway.co.uk/p77651

8. Luxury modern barn in Cheddar & Bridgwater area
6 Bedrooms, Sleeps 12. From £1,695 per week
This recently renovated house sits in five acres in the Quantock Hills. www.homeaway.co.uk/p422533

9. Stunning stone built house set in superb gardens, Bude
5 Bedrooms, Sleeps 12. From £800 per week
A wonderful house, set in large and secluded gardens, in the quiet hamlet of Upton. www.homeaway.co.uk/p428923

10. Large village house in Canterbury, with pool
8 Bedrooms, Sleeps 16. From £2,250 per week
'Maryland House' is a substantial 1930s residence situated on the edge of a small village. www.homeaway.co.uk/p407086

2010-03-01T18:45:00.000Z

AIRPORT Parking and Hotels (APH), the long stay airport parking and travel extras specialist, has turned the spotlight on its own industry by highlighting the extra charges imposed by airport parking booking companies.

The research compares the extra charges imposed by the top, airport parking booking agencies offering services at all major UK airports, including credit card charges, debit card charges, cancellation fees and refunds. The table is available in the ‘Know Before You Go’ section of the website at www.aph.com/charges.

Cancellation and amendment fees were found to be the highest charge added to the booking with all the companies charging cancellation fees if a booking is cancelled close to the travel date, however some charge hefty fees even if customers cancel well in advance. Airparks, BCP and Holiday Extras (all part of the same company group) charge £9.50 for each cancellation if not done within 24 hours of making the booking, whereas Airport Parking and Hotels (APH) and Purple Parking have no charges for cancelling at least a day in advance of the departure date.

Nick Caunter, managing director of Airport Parking and Hotels (APH) says: “The good news is that compared to the no frills airlines where the extra charges often occur, the airport parking industry has many fewer “extras”. However, customers really need to be savvy about who they book with because there are significant differences between companies.”

Airport Parking and Hotels Ltd is one of the UK’s leading booking agencies and this year celebrates its 30th year as a retailer and operator of pre-booked airport parking and travel extras. APH offers parking at all major UK airports, ports and Eurotunnel terminals plus airport hotels packaged with parking, airport lounges, travel insurance, car hire and holiday taxis. APH is also a carbon balanced company and has, through the World Land Trust, helped purchase more than 1,000 acres of Belize rainforest.

For further information visit www.aph.com or call 01342 859515.

Cottage break for Mother's Day

2010-03-01T15:34:00.001Z

IF YOU are looking for the ideal location to take mum away for a Mother’s Day treat then Poachers Cottage in Alnwick fits the bill.

It is a beautiful Grade II listed stone building dating from 1750 and recently renovated to a very high standard.

It is also situated in the heart of Alnwick, close to an excellent selection of pubs and restaurants serving up delicious Mother’s Day lunches offering the best of Northumbrian produce.

Poachers Cottage has its own wood burning stove so you are guaranteed a cosy stay. There are two bedrooms, with a further sofa bed in the living room and your favourite dog is welcome too.

Cost of a week’s stay over Mother’s Day, March 14, is £245.

For full details please contact Northumbria Coast & Country Cottages on 01665 830783 or visit: www.northumbria-cottages.co.uk.

Special breaks in the forest

2010-02-26T10:39:00.001Z

FOREST Holidays are well known for their beautiful camping and caravan sites all based on Forestry Commission maintained land.

As well as getting close to nature, holidaymakers can enjoy everything from hiking to Ranger activities, bike hire and canoeing.

Now for the first time, Forest Holidays are offering fantastic Special Breaks packages at different times throughout the year at their campsites. These special breaks have been carefully devised in response to the huge popularity of the current Ranger Activity programme. Forest Holidays Marketing Manager Carron Smith said: “The Forest Ranger activities are very popular with guests and we wanted to offer even more choice to our customers to enable them to experience all that the forest has to offer first hand.”

Forest Holidays Caravan and Camping sites are located in some of the UK's most spectacular forests, with a range of flora and fauna to explore. The new Special Breaks allow guests to be guided by Forest Rangers and their special guest experts through the forest, whether on bike, by foot or by getting creative.

Carron Smith continues: “The range of Special Breaks that we are able to offer means that there is something for everyone, whether it’s an extreme weekend of challenging cycling or a more relaxing creative arts weekend using natural materials from the forest.”

For those who are pumping with adrenaline, why not try Bike Packing in the New Forest where guests will cycle 50 miles in 3 days! Or cycle, canoe, abseil and climb as part of the Ardgartan Tree-athlon! If you are more interested in animals then breaking a sweat then a Wildlife Weekend in North Yorkshire or Scotland will suit you; discovering birds, insects and larger animals in the depths of the forest. And for the creative types, a weekend of using the natural environment to inspire your masterpiece!

Don't forget year-round at most Forest Holidays campsites and at their 5 cabin sites, there are plenty of Ranger Activities to choose from. And at those campsites where activities are not offered there is also the forest on your doorstep to explore on your own by foot or by bike.

For more information on the Special Breaks see the Fact Box overleaf. To book visit www.forestholidays.co.uk

Notes to Editors
Who is Forest Holidays?
Forest Holidays offers naturally inspired short breaks and holidays based in beautiful forests across the UK. All the sites operate entirely and exclusively within The Forestry Commission Estate.
What is a Forest Holiday?
A camping and caravanning holiday in the middle of scenic woodland at affordable prices with extraordinary activities to keep the family entertained.
Locations
Four sites in Scotland, two in the Forest of Dean, ten in the New Forest, Wales, Yorkshire, Norfolk and Wiltshire.
Prices
A standard pitch in low season starts from £7 for 2 adults per night, additional adults cost from £2.75 per night, children from £1.75 per night. A supplement of between £1-3.50 is applicable for Friday and Saturday nights. Non- Camping and Caravanning Club or Forest Holidays Card holders will incur a charge of £3.50

Contact us
Reservations and bookings: www.forestholidays.co.uk Enquiries- 0845 130 8224

Celebrating St David's Day with Haven

2010-02-24T07:30:00.002Z

IN CASE you didn’t know it’s St David’s Day (good name!) on March 1st .

Celebrate the patron saint of Wales with daffodils, leeks and the promise of a treat at one of Haven’s six Welsh holiday parks. There’s plenty to choose from and it won’t cost a fortune either.

Haven’s Presthaven Sands – which is where Rio Ferdinand booked a family break – has loads to offer this spring including a new Adventure Golf course, extra fun in the pool and the go-kart track where Rio was spotted driving his children round the bend. Book a break during the Easter holidays and see 16 year old Welsh X Factor finalist Lloyd Daniels (on April 8th) live on stage ...or inspire your tinies with a Fun & Fitness break on June 28th featuring Olympic hopeful gymnasts Frankie Jones and Keziah Gore.

Quay West is top of the pops for dolphin spotting, overlooking Cardigan Bay, home to one of the UK’s largest pods of bottlenose dolphins. There’s a heated indoor pool where you can have a bash at Aqua Jet Extreme, Aqua Gliders, Water Walkerz and Haven’s free Learn2Swim lessons.

Fancy a walk? Kiln Park and Lydstep Beach are both within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Kiln Park is just a stroll from Tenby’s stunning South Beach; nearby Lydstep Beach is a haven for watersports with sea kayaking, jet ski hire, power boat trips and Coasteering available from the park.

Hafan y Mor on the Llyn peninsula has more on offer than you can fit into a short break. A huge indoor heated leisure pool, Adventure Golf, the RopeWorks climbing activity centre, bike hire, go-karts, a boating lake, indoor and outdoor sports and a choice of three venues with non-stop family entertainment. And it’s within easy reach of Snowdonia National Park and lots of castles if it’s Welsh heritage you’re after. Encourage your kids to start cooking by booking an Annabel Karmel Creative Cooking break at Hafan y Mor on April 26th - and meet Annabel in person!

Or book a break at Greenacres which has direct access to the miles of Black Rock sands in North Wales. Great for beach sports, family golf (pitch ‘n putt and Adventure Golf) and the charming Italianate village of Portmeirion.
Prices start at just £299 based on 2 bedroom accommodation at Presthaven Sands for a four night break from April 5th. Seven nights from April 2nd costs £449 and Spring breaks in March start at less than £100 based on March 22nd for four nights at Presthaven Sands. All prices based on a family of up to six people in Superior accommodation.

For bookings, more info and additional savings available if you book before the end of February click on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900.

A special treat for Mother's Day

2010-02-23T07:49:00.001Z

DOES your mum deserve a special treat this Mother’s day, Coastal Cottages of Pembrokeshire have the perfect Mothers day package to help make that a reality.

Ty Bet is a quaint mid terrace cottage situated in the small village of Llandeloy only 3 miles from Newgale. Newgale has an amazing stretch of sandy beach, where you can enjoylong walks on the beach or join the coastal path and experience some of the amazing scenery Pembrokeshire has to offer.

The cottage enjoys a wonderful rural location, renovated throughout and comfortably furnished in a modern contemporary style, ideal for that special mother/ daughter get away on March 14th.

To make that break one to remember, have a Mother’s day surprise package waiting for you on arrival at the property including a bouquet of flowers, a bottle of wine and a box of luxury chocolates.

A weekend away in Ty Bet on a special “spring offer” commencing Friday 12th March for 4 nights based on 2 people sharing is from just £205.

01437 772760, www.coastalcottages.co.uk

Cycling heaven on the Isle of Wight

2010-02-22T12:08:00.004Z

RECENTLY recognised by the Lonely Planet as one of the top cycling destinations in the world in its 'Best in Travel 2010' guide, the Isle of Wight is a long time favourite with outdoor enthusiasts.

On or off-road, cyclists are spoilt for choice, with the Island’s variety of landscapes ranging from quiet country lanes to sweeping valleys, chalk cliffs, downs and ancient woodland. Another good reason for leisure cyclists and intrepid Lance Armstrong-wannabees to plan a day trip or short break to the Isle of Wight is that bikes go free with Wightlink (0871 376 1000 www.wightlink.co.uk). Alternatively, cyclists can hire a bike on the Island and have it delivered to the ferry terminal on arrival.

Some routes, like the 62-mile ‘Round the Island’ ride, are decidedly challenging, but for those who want to take the Island cycle routes at their own pace, Wightlink has produced an Easy Peasy Pedalling guide, featuring six easy rides, designed with leisure cyclists in mind. Ranging from five to eight miles in length, the rides make full use of the Island’s extensive bike trails and are routed through nature reserves, past river estuaries and around Parkhurst Forest, home to the rare red squirrel. Visit www.wightlink.co.uk/cycling for details of the guide as well as hire and repair cycle shops on the Island.

Stay in the Island’s rural heartland using a self-catering cottage as a base from which to explore. Located on the Isle of Wight’s famous Garlic Farm in Newchurch, Barn Cottage at Mersley Farm offers two bedrooms, living area and kitchen. The surrounding rural lanes are ideal cycling territory and cross-country experts can punish themselves by climbing the downs on the cottage’s doorstep.

ADULTS... Departing on 23rd March, a three-night Wightlink Green Getaways self-catering break in Barn Cottage, Mersley Farm costs from £94 per person (based on two sharing) including return foot passenger ferry crossings. Alternatively, a car-ferry-inclusive package costs from £112 per person.

TAKE THE KIDS... A one-week Wightlink Green Getaway during the school Easter break costs from £128 per person (based on a family of four sharing), departing 9th April with car ferry crossings.

Alternatively, stay in deepest countryside in a sheltered hollow at the foot of St Catherine’s Down at Gotten Manor. Ideal for nature lovers, there are footpaths in all directions and a woodland copse with bats, badgers and buzzards within the grounds. Traditionally decorated, its rooms have individual touches – fresh flowers, candles, and flowing muslin drapes around huge claw foot iron baths.

ADULTS... Departing on 29th March, a two-night Wightlink Green Getaways B&B break at Gotten Manor costs from £91 per person (based on two sharing) including return foot passenger ferry crossings (from £116pp car-ferry-inclusive).

TAKE THE KIDS... Departing on 9th April, a one-week Wightlink Green Getaways Easter holiday in the self-catering Cart House at Gotten Manor costs from £143 per person (based on four sharing) including return car ferry crossings from Portsmouth or Lymington.

Cyclists travelling as foot passengers on all three Wightlink ferry routes between Portsmouth-Fishbourne, Lymington-Yarmouth and Portsmouth Harbour-Ryde Pier Head can take their own bikes free. Visit www.wightlink.co.uk/specialoffers for details of Wightlink’s ‘2 for 1’ foot passenger offer.

Holiday rentals with swimming pools

2010-02-17T17:13:00.003Z

IF WEST Wales’ renowned Blue Flag beaches are not enough for ‘water-babies’, Coastal Cottages of Pembrokeshire has added more properties with swimming pools for 2010.

For example, Rumours is a detached house set on a hill above Saundersfoot harbour and five minutes walk from the beach. However, if that stroll is too much of an effort the house also boasts a terrace with heated outdoor pool overlooking the sea.

The main property sleeps eight-rental price from £1051 for a week - and also has an adjoining apartment sleeping two - from £358 - so can accommodate parties of 10.

In addition Hermons Hill House is set in two acres of landscaped gardens in the county town of Haverfordwest. Sleeping 13, this Grade II listed house also boasts a heated outdoor swimming pool and summerhouse and is a few minutes drive from the coast. A week’s rental ranges between £893 and £2322.
For smaller properties with swimming pool access the company offers the Ivy Tower Holiday Village near Tenby. Here there are 19 privately-owned cottages sleeping between two and 12, plus a shared heated indoor swimming pool, sauna, gym and outdoor children’s play areas and a tennis court.
A week’s rental of, for example, Groom’s Cottage (sleeps five) leads in at £376 in low season, rising to £943 in peak summer weeks.

Reservations: 01437 772760, www.coastalcottages.co.uk

Staycations are still proving popular

2010-02-16T07:55:00.002Z

‘THE staycation is here to stay’ say Haven Holidays, who have seen a marked increase in families booking longer holidays this year.

And it’s not just about saving money – it’s also about saving carbon emissions and shunning air travel in favour of a holiday closer to home.

More than 65% of people booking a Haven Holiday choose a park less than 2 hours drive from their own home. Which means they are on holiday and enjoying themselves in less time than it takes to get to the airport and check in for an international flight.

Haven say, ‘Our UK holidays offers excellent value for money with great savings for families. During the Easter holidays kids go free, with lots of included activities and entertainment. We believe it’s the best way to enjoy a fantastic family break whilst still keeping your carbon footprint to a minimum.’

Haven offer a varied programme of activities and entertainment on the parks – as well as a wide choice of take-away and restaurant meal options, well-stocked shops for easy self-catering and beaches, resorts and attractions within walking distance. Many customers don’t feel the need to use their cars at all during their holidays.

‘We try and encourage kids to be more green-aware during their holidays,’ added Haven. ‘All our 35 UK holiday parks hold conservation awards, with many achieving the coveted ‘Green Tourism’ award as well. We have strong policies with regard to recycling and energy-saving. This year we will be introducing even more fun green activities for kids with wildlife sessions, rock pool rambles and even glow-worm hunting and bat walks on some parks!

Prices during the Easter holidays start at £85 per adult based on two grown-ups sharing – with no charge for the kids. The price is based on a three night weekend break from April 9th at Wild Duck or Caister in Norfolk or Berwick in Northumberland. Check the website for other similar deals, including Spring breaks from £99 at Haven’s 35 family holiday parks around the UK. Call 0871 230 1900 or click on www.haven.com

'Price more important than brand when choosing a hotel'

2010-02-15T16:33:00.001Z

AS CONSUMERS continue to seek good value, Superbreak reports that demand for its extensive range of ‘Supersaver Mystery Hotels’ across the UK, Europe and further afield is up 33% in the last 10 months from May 09 – January 10.

With customers booking an unnamed hotel, the figures clearly show that currently, price is just as important as the brand. Currently over 250 offers are on sale in 100 destinations with prices from just £17.50pppn.

Supersaver Mystery Hotels offer great savings on the regular cost of the hotel and simply mean that customers choose a destination and hotel star rating and will be told the name of the hotel on the booking confirmation. A brief idea of the location is given but not the name of the hotel. Deals are available in a wide range of UK destinations including London, on airport hotels around the UK and in many key cities across the world.

Ray Jones, marketing director at Superbreak comments; “In the last eight months we have booked over 36,000 bed nights into our mystery hotels. For many, great value is the key factor when booking and they are not buying on a brand proposition alone. They know which destination they want to visit but are less interested in the hotel itself. We have ensured that customers can choose the star rating of their choice and then leave the rest a mystery until after they have booked.”

Sample deals include:
• Four star Leeds – from £55pppn b/b
• Four star Manchester Airport – from £42.50pppn room only
• Five star London – from £78pppn b/b
• Five star Prague – from £57.50pppn b/b

Based on two sharing and valid until the end of April 2010.

For more information or to book call Superbreak on 0871 222 3055 www.superbreak.com

Billy Ocean appearing live at Butlins

2010-02-15T16:02:00.001Z

CARIBBEAN King, Billy Ocean, will be appearing live at Butlins on the 80’s Madness Big Weekend, 14th–17th May, at the beachside Resort in Bognor Regis and it’s selling out fast!

Billy said: “I’ve not played at Butlins before but I heard about it so much as a boy, it was the place to go. My parents could never take us though so at 59 I’m excited that I’m finally going to Butlins”

During the one hour live show, on Saturday 15th May, Billy will be performing his chart-topping hits such as When The Going Gets Tough (The Tough Get Going), Suddenly and Caribbean Queen as well as tracks from his new album. He will be backed by his own group which includes his daughter, Cherie Charles.

He released his first album for 16 years, Because I Love You, on 2nd February and is embarking on a transatlantic tour. The album is a culmination of his unique pop style and Caribbean background with an eclectic mix of ballads, reggae tunes and soca beats. The tracks are a fusion of the old and new sound of Billy Ocean.

The entire break focuses on 80’s music so also include live performances by Bucks Fizz, Jaki Graham and Nathan Moore of Brother Beyond

For more information call 0845 070 4730 or visit www.bigweekends.com

Celebrate St David's Day in style

2010-02-12T07:55:00.002Z

SPRING is on it’s way here in Pembrokeshire, the nights are already starting to draw out making it the perfect time to come away with Coastal Cottages of Pembrokeshire and take advantage of Pembrokeshire and all it has to offer over this St David’s Day.

The First Signs of spring are showing in the Botanic Garden of Wales and the first of the snowdrops are showing their colours, this is the perfect time to bring your pet along with you to experience many of the rural area’s Pembrokeshire has to offer.

Forest View Cottages are set on the outskirts of the breathtaking Brechfa forest in the rolling country side of Carmarthenshire. This group of 3 cottages are surrounded by 35 acres of ground, which you are free to explore. A perfect spot for a picnic is along side the horseshoe shaped lake which is a haven for the wildlife and swans that vacate it. Each cottage is individually designed retaining many of the original features, but enjoying the styles of modern fitted kitchen’s and open plan living space. Outside there is your own paved patio and landscaped communal area where you are free to enjoy an evening barbecue.

Couples and families will relax from the moment they go down the drive to this lovely holiday cottage. A week’s stay for 4 People and a dog at Ty Coedwig starting on the 27th February will cost £377, why not take a visit to the Botanic Gardens of Wales on St David’s day and enjoy all the entertainment available on this Patriotic day!

01437 772760, www.coastalcottages.co.uk

Butlins celebrates a busy half term

2010-02-08T12:50:00.000Z

BUTLINS attributes its great start to 2010 - 15% increase in year on year sales for February half term - to its continuous investment and delivery of excellent service.

The company believes that its constant and ongoing investment, equating to £300,000pw since 2003 giving a total of around £110m, is having a huge positive effect on British holiday-makers’ perceptions of Butlins. Indeed availability for the forthcoming half term breaks across the three beachside Resorts is disappearing fast with Bognor Regis virtually sold out, Minehead 88% and Skegness 90% sold out.

The Butlins’ Board recognises that capital investment alone is not enough and invests just as heavily into its people development and hence the delivery of a fantastic holiday experience for its guests. This investment continues to reap rewards with Butlins being awarded the Customer Service Employer of the Year Award, ahead of mega-corporations including American Express, British Gas, Kwik Fit Financial Services and Sky. The award was introduced to the National Customer Service Awards scheme in 2009, making Butlins the first ever company to take home the coveted prize. This follows Butlins success when, in 2008, it won Customer Service Training Team of the Year.

Richard Bates, Managing Director of Butlins commented; “We are committed to an ongoing capital investment programme and our guest feedback directs us to the areas this investment is focused on. But investment on its own will not do the job and so we will continue to put time and money into developing our team and supporting them in making our guests’ holidays as memorable as possible.”

In 2010 Butlins is investing a further £10m, on top of £100m already spent, into the continuous refurbishment and improvement of accommodationand facilitiesacross all three Resorts, Bognor Regis, Minehead and Skegness. The huge capital expenditure has already resulted in two ultra-modern hotels, one with a £2m Spa, being built at Bognor Regis, a Spa at Skegness and BlueSkies Vacation Club at Minehead.

At Butlins Minehead twelve new specially designed gold apartments with four bedrooms have been introduced. Perfect for extended families and larger groups of holidaymakers who want to stay together, the apartments are set within a three storey apartment block. Comfortably sleeping eight they consist of two double bedrooms – one of which has its own large ensuite – and two twins. There are a further two fully refurbished shower rooms to cater for the apartment. All apartments feature new lighting and furniture and combined kitchen and dining areas containing a refurbished modern kitchen with large fridge freezer, new large dining table and chairs catering for eight and new leatherette sofas, tub chairs and bean bags in the living area along with 32” colour TV with DVD for entertainment.

New Coast Self Service Dining Rooms are being introduced into both the Minehead and Skegness Resorts. The new premium dining restaurants – already in situ in Bognor Regis – are colourful and modern and feature an interactive and fun children’s area designed to keep little ones amused. The improved Food Court dining rooms are being refurbished to position them in line with the existing Yacht Club dining experience available at each Resort.

Following the success of the sports and leisure area that was launched in Bognor Regis in 2009, two further ActivityGardens are being created in the Minehead and Skegness Resorts. The areas will feature a wide range of activities to keep the whole family entertained and active including high ropes, beach courts, sport arenas and go karts and junior driving tracks – a true hive of activity and excitement and a place for everyone to try their hand at something new and discover new skills.

Skegness’ entertainment venue, Centre Stage, is receiving a cash injection and its refurbishment will increase its existing capacity of 1700 by 220 meaning nearly 2,000 guests will be able to comfortably enjoy the first class entertainment on offer at the Resort each night.

Breaks for 2010 are priced from *£199 for a family of four sharing a Silver self-catering apartment and includes half price discount on breaks booked before 28th February 2010. Call 0845 070 4730 or visit www.butlins.com to make a reservation.

Still time to book a romantic cottage break

2010-02-04T16:37:00.002Z

NORTHUMBRIA Coast & Country Cottages has a number of properties still available for those wanting to get away for a last minute romantic Valentine’s break!

In the picturesque seaside village of Alnmouth is Spence Lodge, a recently converted former coach house with two bedrooms and the property retains many of the original features which have been tastefully complemented with modern fixtures and fittings.

There is an open plan living area with wooden floors, widescreen TV, CD/Radio and iPod docking station and there is also Wi-Fi with a week’s stay costing £485.

Also in Alnmouth is Smuggler’s Cottage which is an 18th century stone built property with stunning sea views. It has two bedrooms and has been refurbished with great respect for the original features and has a fully equipped kitchen. A small dog is also welcome. The price for a week’s stay is £500.

The Garden Apartment in Warkworth is a beautiful one bedroom, open studio layout apartment resplendent with top of the range fixtures and fittings and you can also bring your dog. It is situated close to the River Coquet which you can follow to the ruins of Warkworth Castle and is £350 for a weeks stay.

For full details please contact Northumbria Coast & Country Cottages on 01665 830783 or visit: www.northumbria-cottages.co.uk.

A Valentine's treat for the whole family

2010-02-04T15:09:00.001Z

STUCKfor a Valentine’s gift? Looking for something that lasts longer than roses or chocolates? Haven Holidays’ February Sale ends on Valentine’s Day so this year make it a treat that includes the whole family!

What does your family love doing best?

Haven are confident that whatever UK activity your family loves doing best you can do it on one of their parks! They say ‘ we love our guests and want them to enjoy themselves – which doesn’t just mean fabulous locations, it also means providing lots of activities and good value for money.’

Whether it’s football, fencing or archery; basketball, roller-blading, tennis, fishing, golf or even horse-riding - you’ll find it on one of Haven’s 35 UK family holiday parks.

If swimming is your families’ favourite thing they’ll love the heated indoor and outdoor leisure pools with lots of extra splashtastic activities - including Aqua Jet Extreme (James Bond style submersibles), Turbo Paddlers, Water Walkerz and Fun Inflatable sessions.

And if the kids can’t swim Haven are offering to help them learn in their widely acclaimed Learn2Swim programme – which is free of charge to holidaymakers and holiday home owners on their parks.

A full programme of daytime and evening entertainment with stageshows, pantos, wrestling, professional cabaret, music and dancing, character shows and kid’s clubs is included in the price.

If you love saving money Haven Holidays are excellent value.

Take advantage of the current February sale with breaks from as little as £149 for three or four nights for a family of four. Prices based on four nights from June 7th at Doniford Bay in Somerset; Presthaven Sands in North Wales, Golden Sands in Lincolnshire or The Orchards in Essex.

A break at Kiln Park, near Tenby will cost around £199 on the same date.

The sales ends on Valentine’s Day and also includes some excellent 50% discounts on dates in early July. Call 0871 230 1900 or click on www.haven.com

Escape to the forest....

2010-02-02T08:14:00.001Z

BRITAIN’S forests are among our most ancient natural resources and were historically a place to escape to when times got tough.

Once again they have become a popular haven of quiet and Forest Holidays, the UK market leader in cabin holidays, which operates entirely and exclusively within The Forestry Commission Estate, reports 2009 was a bumper year with sales up more than 15% on 2008. It expects growth to be even greater in 2010, when it will open more new sites due to consumer demand.

Antonio Betes, Forest Holidays’ marketing director, puts the surge in interest down to a variety of things:

‘Firstly the excellence of our accommodation would delight anyone,’ he says, ‘but most importantly people of all ages, and especially families, simply love the freedom to explore our beautiful natural environment. It’s a great holiday with a little bit of education thrown in for good measure by our dedicated Forest ranger team, and very green and eco-friendly into the bargain.’

For 2010 Forest Holidays will be further expanding the programme of activities, introducing geology sessions in Cornwall, fishing in Scotland, and wildlife watches across its sites. It will also be celebrating special diary dates such as National Bird Nesting Week, World Forest Day, National BBQ week, Easter, Halloween and St. Andrew’s day. New activities will include painting in the wild, canoeing, laser combat, rock climbing and forest survival.

Forest Holidays has continued to upgrade its cabin accommodation. Already both the Silver Birch and Golden Oak cabins offer high levels of luxury including a hot tub on the balcony. The operator has listened to its customers’ accommodation suggestions and new this year are one and four bedroom cabins to accommodate romantic couples, bigger families and groups of friends. This year’s most exciting accommodation innovation is the Golden Oak Plus – a sumptuous and wonderfully appointed cabin designed, built and equipped to luxury standards complete with slippers and bathrobes in the master bedroom.

Forest Holidays is always aware of the vagaries of the British climate and most cabins are equipped with large flat screen TVs and other diversions. Superior cabins add even more value by offering Wii consoles and other technological creature comforts, whilst for those who like to take their favourite creatures with them on holiday dog-friendly cabins are also available.

As Antonio Betes suggests it’s no wonder bringing our ancient woodlands up to date has proved a year-round success:

‘The combination of hi-tech luxury and elegant design sitting side-by-side with our fantastic forest legacy has proved to be a win-win vision for the UK holiday industry,’ he said. ‘Best of all as our autumn and winter bookings have proved a Forest Holiday truly is a holiday for all seasons, 365 days a year.’

Other Forest Holidays news to look out for:
· Forest of Dean opening in September 2010, the largest Forest Holidays site to date
· The Forest Holidays Membership Club, with its offer to holiday at half-price, goes from strength to strength

Eco Friendly and brilliant value for money
In the current economic climate Forest Holidays are ideal for people who wish to spend less on their holidays, not travel too far, look after the environment, and yet still experience a touch of luxury. Prices start from £215 for a 4 night mid week stay at one of the luxury 3 bedroom ‘Golden Oak’ cabins or £219 for a 3 nights weekend stay. The more simple 2 bedroom ‘Copper Beech’ cabins start from £133 and £135 respectively.
For details visit www.forestholidays.co.uk or call 0845 130 8223.

Monarch airline's busy start to 2010

2010-02-01T16:55:00.000Z

LOW fares airline Monarch has seen strong demand for scheduled
flights in January 2010, with average load factors across the network reaching
77% - a 1% increase on the same period last year.

The Canary Islands of Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Tenerife once
again proved to be the most popular destinations with almost 70,000
holidaymakers flying to these popular winter sun islands last month - a 26%
increase compared to January 09.

Commenting on the January traffic figures, managing director of Monarch Flights
and Holidays, Tim Jeans said, "We continue to see strong demand for our flights
to the Canary Islands, once again proving they are a firm favourite with
customers. The onboard service offered on Monarch's scheduled flights, which
includes extra legroom seating, a great range of tasty hot and cold food, and
selected inflight entertainment is over and above the levels provided by most
low fares airlines, and is perfectly suited for longer flight sectors such as
the Canary Islands.

"While there was a deliberate overall reduction in capacity offered during the
month of January we are pleased to have delivered a load factor of 77%,
indicating that despite the ongoing difficult economic climate our passengers,
many of whom are loyal repeat customers, continue to choose to fly with
Monarch."

Monarch operates scheduled flights to Spain, Gibraltar, Portugal, Cyprus and
Turkey from Birmingham, London Gatwick, London Luton and Manchester airports. In
addition to year-round low fares, Monarch also offers a unique range of onboard
meals and snacks with prices from £3.00. To avoid a last minute free-for-all
when boarding, seats can be pre-booked from £7.50 per one-way flight, or from
only £15, extra-legroom seats are available, which offer up to six inches of
extra space.

Passengers travelling on scheduled flights can also avoid the queues at the
airport and take advantage of online check-in which is available between seven
days and 4.5 hours prior to departure.

In addition to flights, Monarch also now offers a huge range of great value
holidays, accommodation options, car hire and travel insurance.

For further information or to book Monarch flights, Monarch Holidays or Monarch
Hotels, please visit www.monarch.co.uk.

Half term fun in Pembrokeshire

2010-01-29T08:46:00.002Z

LOOKING to take the Children away this February half term, Coastal Cottages of Pembrokeshire have the perfect break for you.

With plenty of activities to keep the children occupied, from horse riding to quad biking, Pembrokeshire has everything you need for a fun half term break whatever the weather!

Ivy Tower village is set in the delightful, historic village of St Florence situated just a short drive out of Tenby with its award winning beaches and restaurants. This private cluster of 19 properties are all individually owned, and have been transformed to a high standard. The complex offers accommodation sleeping between 2 and 12 guests making this holiday perfect for families and also couple’s alike.

There is a wide range of activities to be explored by you and your little ones at the Ivy Tower Village. The site offers free use of a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna, fully equipped gym, children’s play area, crazy golf course and a tennis court. After a day exploring all the Ivy Tower has to offer put the children to bed, so you can relax in your conservatory looking out at the stars with a glass of wine.

A week stay in Poachers cottage sleeping 6 starts at £350 on a special offer arriving Saturday 13th February.

A weeks stay in The Cornstore sleeping 6 is on a special offer of £378 for 7 nights starting 13th February.

01437 772760, www.coastalcottages.co.uk

Top performers heading to Butlins for half-term

2010-01-26T10:47:00.003Z

MISS Frank, Rachel Adedeji, Faces of Disco and Stavros Flately will make this February a half-term to remember at Butlins.

With prices from £47pp per break (Based on a family of four sharing a Silver self-catering apartment), this February half term is brimming with top quality live entertainment including Brainiac Live, the hugely popular Sky One show is coming live to Butlins, bringing the weird and wonderful world of science to kids and adults alike and Guinness World Records when guests can set a new world record and get their names into the Guinness World Records book. The stars from X-Factor, Miss Frank and Rachel Adedeji,and Britain's Got Talent, Faces of Disco and Stavros Flately, will also be appearing live on stage.

Shoreline Hotel at Butlins Bognor Regis is geared up for families with younger children as it’s close to all the Resort’s facilities. Prices start from just £77pp per break

Call 0845 070 4730 or visit www.butlins.com to make a reservation.

Go green and avoid the stress of planes

2010-01-25T17:00:00.002Z

IF YOU need any further incentive to go green and holiday close to home the spectre of airport delays, potential strikes and the length of time it takes to check in and clear security will help you make your mind up!

We British sometimes forget that Britain truly is great and has some fantastic places to visit - from historical sites to breath-taking beaches just waiting to be explored. And by staying within the UK this summer you’ll be helping to minimise your carbon footprint and reduce the amount of damaging CO2 emissions released into the atmosphere.

By the time you’ve finally started to taxi down the runway you could already be unpacked and enjoying one of Haven Holidays’ 35 family holiday parks around Great Britain

Haven are committed to stringent eco-friendly policies and has 17 Green Tourism Scheme Awards under its belt for 2010. All the parks hold David Bellamy Conservation Awards – with 33 achieving the coveted Gold standard. Fifteen Haven parks take direct responsibility for protected conservation areas and all play a vital role in protecting and conserving British wildlife - so you can sleep easy knowing you have booked a holiday that is friendly to the environment.

Haven parks are situated all around the British coastline and Devon Cliffs Holiday Park is the first landmark on the stunning Jurassic Coastline – England’s first natural World Heritage Site. This spectacular natural setting is a great place to enjoy a walk or for budding archaeologists a chance to go fossil hunting. Perran Sands sits directly on the South West Coast Path with 630 miles of signposted walking for you to enjoy whilst Kiln Park is within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Britain’s only coastal national park.

Check out carbon–neutral ways to travel around the park and surrounding areas that won’t burden your conscience. A family bike ride means you can take in the scenery while also burning off some calories from lunch - or look for parks that offer horse-riding.

And with a great entertainment package and lots of facilities, kid’s clubs and organised activities provided in the cost of the holiday from football coaching to late-night discos – your car will be surplus to requirements and you can relax and enjoy a fun-filled holiday knowing you have helped reduce your carbon footprint this summer.

Early booking deals will be reduced on January 31 so it’s worth booking soon to take advantage of the best price offers. At the moment you can book a break from as little as £129 for a three or four nights in superior accommodation for a family of four (available at a wide choice of dates and parks).

For immediate booking and details of the best special offers visit www.haven.com or phone 0871 2301930.

Luxury romantic break in Henley on Thames

2010-01-25T08:18:00.004Z

CELEBRATE in luxury at The Red Lion Hotel, Henley on Thames and The Manor, Windsor from £189 per couple.

What could be more romantic than staying at a luxury hotel in a beautiful village or market town, just an hour’s drive from London? Idyllic breaks for Valentine’s Day are available at The Manor at Datchet, near Windsor, and The Red Lion Hotel at Henley on Thames, both old buildings with wonderful décor and ambience.

Couples can enjoy togetherness on a special Valentine’s Day package at The Red Lion in Henley on Thames for only £255 per room per night, including a five course dinner in the Regatta Restaurant. Dishes are designed to encourage sharing and passion: delicious native oysters, champagne sorbet, a choice of main courses, desserts reminiscent of tropical holidays, such as coconut parfait. The package includes half a bottle of champagne to accompany dinner and a red rose. Retiring after dinner to a spacious en-suite bedroom decorated with antiques, guests will dream the night away on a rose-petal strewn bed. The next morning, there’s still time to enjoy a full English breakfast and go on a leisurely riverside walk or explore the town’s boutiques and antique shops. For a more relaxing morning, guests can also book a massage in one of the hotel’s three therapy rooms.

At The Manor, a 4-star boutique hotel overlooking the village green in Datchet, Windsor, Valentine’s Day can be celebrated in style for just £189 per couple. The package price includes accommodation in a luxurious individually-designed bedroom, which will be decorated with rose petals. Couples can enjoy talking and relaxing over dinner in the new Brasserie and Bar: choose to sit at one of the tables, or cosy up together on a leather sofa in front of the fire and eat casually from a coffee table. The delicious Valentine’s menu includes sharing dishes such as oysters and specialties such as red snapper with truffle-scented gnocchi or slow-cooked pork with bok choi and ginger. After full English breakfast the following morning, guests can take a romantic walk along the Thames (maps provided by the hotel) or go into Windsor to enjoy the boutique shops or visit Windsor Castle.

For further information, please visit: www.redlionhenley.co.uk or www.themanorwindsor.com

Search for new Haven FunStars

2010-01-20T17:03:00.002Z

HAVEN'S nationwide search for new FunStars to entertain guests at their 35 family holiday parks ends this week at Bristol City Football Stadium.

Britain’s favourite family holiday company has been auditioning at football stadiums around the country for hundreds of new FunStars to help their existing Team deliver a fantastic new programme of entertainment this year.

FunStars make Haven Holidays extra special, organising a whole range of fun daytime activities and live performances after dark with interactive games and competitions, singing, dancing and glittering stage-shows.

Families can get up and moving with early morning Wake and Shake sessions; Kid’s Clubs offer a whole range of FREE activities including arts and crafts, music and dancing , games and competitions; there’s cake decorating for kids in Annabel’s Creative Kitchen and plenty of opportunities to join the FunStars on stage with games and competitions as well as the popular ‘Haven’s Got Talent’ contest .
Daytime entertainment includes character shows featuring cuddly favourites Rory the Tiger and friends, all season pantos and wrestling.

And when the sun goes down expect lively evenings with stage-shows, circus performances, variety nights and some of the UK’s top cabaret acts. Many Haven Holiday parks have more than one evening venue, with different shows taking place at the same time.

Best of all in these budget-conscious times, entertainment comes as part of the package.

With prices from as little as £129 for a three or four night Spring break for a family of four in Superior 2 bedroom accommodation it’s cheaper than treating the kids to a night out at a West End show!

The special early booking deal is available at a wide choice of Haven parks including Cala Gran, Golden Sands, Berwick and Wild Duck. Click on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900 for immediate bookings and more information.

If you are interested in a becoming a Haven FunStar visit www.funstarsonline.co.uk

Fun for youngsters at Vauxhall Holiday Park

2010-01-20T16:38:00.003Z

MAKING sure there are lots of things for the kids to do is always a headache for parents when planning their next holiday.

With that in mind the 5 star Vauxhall Holiday Park in Great Yarmouth has made sure there is plenty to keep kids, of all ages, having fun throughout every day of their stay.

They can join Louie the Lion in his den for his Kidz Club, which includes activities such as face painting, treasure hunts, story time etc. Each afternoon there is Arty Kidz where children can get their hands dirty making mobiles, enjoy a colouring competition or playing with hand puppets.

For the under 5’s there is the Tiny Tot Club with a whole host of activities specifically designed for pre-school children.

All children’s organised activities are included in the price of the holiday.

Prices for a week’s holiday start at £252, staying in the ‘Kingfisher’ which sleeps three, while a three night short break is available from £138.

For more information please telephone: 01493 857231or visit www.vauxhall-holiday-park.co.uk where a copy of the brochure can be downloaded

TV stars to perform at Butlins

2010-01-19T09:25:00.001Z

BUTLINS have announced that for the first time at a UK holiday centre, and exclusive to them, stars of both X-Factor and Britain’s Got Talent will be appearing in the same live shows at the three beachside Resorts, Bognor Regis, Minehead and Skegness, in 2010.

Many of the stars are from the most recent shows - from X-Factor there will be Olly, Stacey, Danyl, Lloyd, Jamie, Lucie, Rachel and Miss Frank with Stavros Flatley, George Sampson and Faces of Disco from Britain’s Got Talent (stars from the 2010 show appearing from July). Both brands will be represented on weekend and mid-week breaks.

Prices for Butlins breaks start from just £59pp per break based on four people sharing a Silver self-catering apartment. To book a Butlins break call 0845 070 4730 or visit www.butlins.com (The maximum call charge is 2p per minute from a BT landline. Calls from other networks may vary)

*To avoid disappointment check who is appearing on your chosen break at time of booking.

Family breaks to Legoland Windsor

2010-01-19T08:00:00.003Z

FOLLOWING the launch of a new three-night Legoland Windsor package from the 14th century Bird In Hand Hotel near Maidenhead, it’s now possible to combine a family break in a comfortable, historic hotel, with a fun couple of days at one of the country’s leading theme parks.

Located less than 12 miles from Legoland, the 600 year-old country inn offers everything to keep mum and dad happy. The 2007 and 2008 CAMRA Berkshire Pub of the Year, it serves an ever-changing selection of Real Ales, as well as more than 50 wines in its traditional, atmospheric bar, complete with oak panelling and inglenook fireplace.

The spacious restaurant offers an extensive menu, featuring family favourites such as home-cooked Steak & Kidney Pudding, Fish & Chips and Bangers & Mash, and the accommodation, including family rooms, has been renovated to a very high standard, combining comfort with modern amenities including a flat-screen television, free wi-fi and welcome tray.

So, after the children have had their fun on the rides and attractions, taken in a show, and maybe even visited Pirates Landing, new for 2010 at Legoland Windsor, mum and dad will also be able to enjoy themselves, and savour the hospitality served up by a traditional country inn.

The new three-night Bird In Hand Legoland Windsor package starts from £295 for a family of two adults and one child under 16 sharing a room, and from £350 for a family of two adults and two children. Prices include bed and breakfast accommodation, a two-day pass to Legoland and VAT. For further information tel: 01628 826622 or visit www.birdinhand.co.uk.

Cottage midweek breaks for just £99

2010-01-18T10:59:00.001Z

COASTAL Cottages of Pembrokeshire is highlighting a range of properties where couples can enjoy a four-night break for a total of £99 – just £12.50 per person, per night.

The offer – which can be taken between 3 January and 26 March (excluding February half term) - is available at more than 30 properties in coastal and countryside locations throughout the county.

In addition, at cottages that can accommodate more than two people, the cost for each additional person is £49 for four nights.

For two:

Farmhouse Cottage is a converted dairy in the quiet hamlet of Trevinert, less than a mile from the sea and the tiny, cathedral city of St David’s with its excellent shops, restaurants and galleries. A four-night break is a total of £99.

For more:

For a party of four, Eynons is an attractive, single-storey stone cottage at Roch, a mile and a half from Newgale beach and the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path. With full occupancy, a four-night break is a total of £197.

01437 772760, www.coastalcottages.co.uk

Big things at Butlins for 2010

2010-01-15T07:58:00.000Z

BUTLINS entertainment for 2010 looks set be even better than ever.

There are loads of new and exciting things for the 1.5m guests who visit the Bognor Regis, Minehead, and Skegness beachside Resorts, every year. With 2010 bookings already up 11% year on year British holiday makers give the seal of approval to a Butlins break.

A Butlins break is the perfect antidote to the Election Mania we all know will invade our lives from now until the General Election. Put political broadcasts, canvassing and babies being kissed out of your mind while you enjoy the modern, airy accommodation, top quality facilities and vast array of live entertainment that make up a Butlins break.

The host of fantastic new family entertainment for 2010 includes:

Ø Thomas and Friends – exclusive to Butlins with a spectacular live show, plenty of surprises and lots of new Thomas-themed activities
Ø Brainiac Live – the hugely popular Sky One show is coming live to Butlins, bringing the weird and wonderful world of science to kids and adults alike
Ø Guinness World Records – guests can set a new world record and get their names into the Guinness World Records book
Ø Baby Loves Disco – a fun filled dance party featuring real music spun and mixed by DJs guaranteed to get those little booties moving and grooving
Ø High Ropes and Climbing Wall – due to the popularity of the High Ropes and Climbing Wall at Bognor Regis and Minehead Butlins has built a brand new one at Skegness
Ø Live coverage of World Cup 2010 – don’t miss a moment with live coverage of World Cup 2010 at every Resort

Butlins ‘Summer of Discovery 2010’ will encourage kids to broaden their horizons and leave behind their comfort zones as they ‘Discover More’ this summer. From archery and circus skills to trampoline and basketball, the kids will have the time of their lives with over 50 activities at no extra costas part of a summer holiday at the popular holiday park (some activities incur a small charge. Activities and facilities vary depending on the Resort)

Parents will delight as their little ones enjoy breakfast with Bob the Builder, get fit with Pingu and pirouette with Angelina Ballerina. Meanwhile, bigger kids can branch out into activities such as fencing, archery and, for the most daring, the Climbing Wall, High Ropes and Zip Wire – all designed to heighten their sense of achievement and boost their self-confidence.

During peak season (July to November), parents will receive free Butlins Discovery Cards for their children, which will be stamped for every exciting new activity tried. Just five stamps on their card and the little discoverers will be presented with a souvenir Butlins Discoverer pin badge they’ll be proud to show off when they get home – plus parents will have the perfect picture opportunities for the family album.

For those who love a bit of pampering the Spas at Bognor Regis and Skegness offer adults the chance to chill out whilst the kids are kept busy. Both have saunas, steam rooms and hydrospa as well a choice of treatments. Skegness also has a 20m pool whilst Bognor Regis has one of only two SnowCaves in the UK as well as an outdoor hot tub offer a comforting soak whilst listening to the sea lapping on the shore.

Guests can be confident of top class service at Butlins as the company won the Customer Service Employer of the Year Award 2009 which is awarded to companies with outstanding customer service delivery and experience demonstrated via their team development. The Customer Service Employer of the Year is awarded as part of the National Customer Service Awards.

Breaks for 2010 are priced from £199 for a family of four sharing a Silver self-catering apartments and includes half price discount on breaks booked before 28th February 2010. Call 0845 070 4730 or visit www.butlins.com to make a reservation.

'Stay-cation is here to stay' - Haven

2010-01-11T17:14:00.003Z

‘THE Stay-cation is here to stay’ say Haven Holidays who have confirmed that early booking predictions indicate that even more people will be choosing the UK for their short breaks this year.

Value for money is the key issue for many people when it comes to choosing a holiday according to research by Britain’s leading family holiday park operator and Haven have responded to customer feedback by including even more activities in the cost of their holidays. .

This year Haven have included even more activities within the cost of the holiday making it much easier to budget.

The popular Learn2Swim sessions will be free of charge this year – giving all ages the chance to streamline their strokes and boost their confidence in the water. Even little ones can take part with special ‘Mother and Baby’ sessions.

Celebrating World Cup year, football coaching will be free giving Rooney-wannabees the chance to improve their technique. Other activities at no extra cost include ‘Wake and Shake’, Annabel’s Creative Kitchen, swimming sessions and use of the flumes and slides and the regular Kid’s clubs.

And entertainment is included with pantos, wrestling, circus performances, character shows and nightly music, dancing and cabaret.

Haven have some excellent early booking deals available with savings of up to 40% on the cost of Spring and early Summer breaks and up to 20% on school and Bank Holiday breaks.

Whilst it can be tempting to hang on for last minute bargains the chances are you won’t save much money – and you won’t get your first choice of destination and accommodation. Haven say, ‘With so many people booking in advance many popular dates are filling up fast. If you don’t have any flexibility with dates – or have set your heart on a particular destination you’ll need to book early.’

Prices currently start at as little as £129 for a four night Spring break for a family of four in ‘Superior’ accommodation at a choice of holiday parks including Caister, near Great Yarmouth, Devon Cliffs on the Jurassic coastline, Presthaven Sands, near Prestatyn and Craig Tara in Ayrshire. For bookings and details of other early booking offers click on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900.

Haven’s 20% school holidays discount ends on January 17th.

Escape the Triffids....

2010-01-11T08:08:00.000Z

AT THE end of John Wyndham’s 1950s classic sci-fi novel The Day of the Triffids, shown on BBC TV over the New Year, the hero and heroine make their escape from the UK mainland and its man-eating plants to the safety of a new world colony on the Isle of Wight.

Half a century after the publication of the post-apocalyptic novel, the Island remains a safe haven for endangered flora and fauna and a holiday playground for the eco-orientated. Wightlink’s free, downloadable Rare Plant Trail guide is one way to check out the safe locations for wildlife and its Green Getaways eco-holiday hideaways provide rural accommodation close to the wild (0871 376 0013 www.wightlink.co.uk).

WHAT TO SEE ON THE ISLE OF WIGHT:

ENDANGERED CREATURES: the red squirrel is undoubtedly the most famous of many rare fauna that have sheltered on the Isle of Wight, safe from mainland predators. Others include the retiring dormouse, the water vole, the vulnerable Glanville Fritillary, an orange and brown chequered butterfly that has virtually disappeared from the UK and 12 of 15 British bat species - including the nationally rare Bechstein’s Bat.

RARE FLORA: Extra-ordinary plants like the Early Gentian, Toothwort and Narrow-leaved Lungwort are hidden away on the Isle of Wight – and Wightlink’s Rare Plant Trail blows the whistle on where to find them. The guide traces a route around the Isle of Wight to spotlight 20 of the UK’s most noteworthy plants in garden collections, nature reserves and wild Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Some close to extinction on the UK mainland, the plants featured range from some of the country’s largest trees to its tiniest flowering species. Many were chosen because they encourage rare wildlife, like the endangered red squirrel and dormouse and a tremendous variety of rare birds, insects and butterflies.

TWITCHERS: should flock to the Isle of Wight to see rare birds like the Corn Bunting (indigenous at south coast Whale Chine), the Dartford warbler, Nightjar, Water Rail and a host of Little Egrets. The Island’s top bird sanctuary is, unquestionably, the national nature reserve of Newtown Estuary, a north coast paradise for migrating birds like the Golden Plover and Great Crested Grebe.

WHERE TO STAY:

GOTTEN MANOR: Couples can stay in deepest countryside at his romantic stone manor house, located in a sheltered hollow at the foot of St. Catherine’s Down in the south of the island with only cows for neighbours. There are footpaths in all directions, a woodland copse with bats, badgers and buzzards within the grounds and the beaches of south coast Wight are just a few miles distance.

Three-night Wightlink Green Getaway ferry-inclusive weekend packages are available in February priced at £160 per person (arriving 5th, 12th, 19th or 26th February) or in May at £165 per person (arriving 7th, 14th or 28th May). All dates include car ferry crossings from either Portsmouth or Lymington.

MERSLEY FARM: Families can stay on the Isle of Wight’s famous Garlic Farm in one of six cottages created from traditional outbuildings around Mersley Farm in the Island’s rural heartland. Kiln Cottage faces the Downs and offers two spacious bedrooms as well as kitchen, dining area and living room. The surrounding area is ideal cycling and walking territory, and guests benefit from free WiFi internet access, use of a tennis court, and easy access to beaches and famous resort towns, including Sandown and Shanklin. However, the highlight is the onsite Garlic Farm shop – a great place to find fresh local produce and sample a diverse range of garlic products including elephant garlic, smoked garlic, pickles, relish, and even garlic honey! It is also a haven for wildlife including tame red squirrels.

Departing on 19th February, a three-night Wightlink Green Getaways holiday in Kiln Cottage, Mersley Farm costs £260 for a family of four – or £65 per person including self-catering accommodation and return car ferry crossings from Portsmouth or Lymington. Alternatively a three-night break in May (starting 21st May) costs £400 for four people – or £100 per person.

Vauxhall Holiday Park's new brochure is out

2010-01-07T16:10:00.003Z

VAUXHALL Holiday Park has just launched its 2010 brochure for those wanting all that is best in a British seaside holiday!

The 5 Star holiday park is situated in Great Yarmouth with its 15 miles of golden sandy beaches and many other attractions. It prides itself on catering for the needs of the modern holidaymaker - whatever their taste or budget.

Visitors can choose from a variety of luxury holiday homes accommodating up to eight people. New for 2010 is the ‘Falcon’, the ultimate in style and comfort for four people and designed to have a spacious and contemporary feel. It has a flat screen TV with Freeview, large dining area, ensuite master bedroom plus a further bathroom and fully equipped kitchen.

Prices for a week’s holiday start at £252, staying in the ‘Kingfisher’ which sleeps three, while a three night short break is available from £138.

Once at Vauxhall Holiday Park there is plenty to do, new attractions for 2010 are the Adventure Climbing Wall and Laser Skirmish.

There is also the fabulous Indoor Tropical Water World, darts, pool, snooker, short mat bowls, gymnasium, football, tennis, kwik cricket and electric go karts.

There are special facilities for children with Louie the Lion’s Kidz Club, while there are ‘Arty Kidz’ classes each afternoon and the Tiny Tots Club for the under fives.

For those wanting a break from cooking The Reedcutters Restaurant & Coffee Shop is open from 9.00am – 9.00pm seven days a week.
In addition four takeaway outlets offer burgers, fried chicken, kebabs, pizzas, jacket potatoes, fish & chips and fresh shellfish.

There is five star entertainment, at no extra cost, every night in the Regency Room while the new V-Lounge is for the over 18’s and has live music, discos and karaoke.

Vauxhall Holiday Park also has facilities for touring caravans, motor homes and campers.

For more information please telephone: 01493 857231or visit www.vauxhall-holiday-park.co.uk where a copy of the brochure can be downloaded.

Cornwall winter hotel sale

2010-01-05T17:16:00.000Z

TREAT yourself to fantastic accommodation in Cornwall this winter - at incredibly reduced prices.
Wherever you choose to stay you’ll be sure of comfortable accommodation, top quality, freshly-cooked food, prepared with local ingredients, and a very warm Cornish welcome.

St Austell Brewery hotels and inns are located in some of Cornwall's most popular locations. With prices from as low as just £25 per night why not take this opportunity to spoil yourself and enjoy a short winter escape in Cornwall.

Some Participating Hotels include:
Harbour Inn, Porthleven - SALE price from just £30 room only (SAVING £45)
Hope and Anchor, Hope Cove - SALE price from just £35 room only (SAVING £30)
Old Success Inn, Sennen Cove - SALE price from just £25 room only (SAVING £35)
Port William, Trebarwith Strand - SALE price from just £35 room only (SAVING £15)
Rashleigh Arms, Charlestown - SALE price from just £35 (SAVING.£35)
Ship Inn, Mousehole - SALE price from just £25 room only (SAVING £40)

Visit www.staustellbrewery.co.uk/hotels/special-offers for details of all participating hotels. Go to www.staustellbrewery.co.uk/hotels for more details on each hotel.

Prices are per room per night, based on two people sharing a twin/double standard room, from 4 January to 28 February 2010.

Discount for early bookers extended

2010-01-05T08:03:00.000Z

THE 15 per cent discount available at Vauxhall Holiday Park to anyone booking a week’s stay this year has been extended until 10 January!

The 5 star holiday park has a great choice of accommodation and facilities to suit all tastes and budgets and is situated in Great Yarmouth with its 15 miles of golden sandy beaches and many other attractions.

The V-Lounge, Falcon Range of accommodation, Adventure Climbing Wall and Laser Skirmish are all new for 2010, while visitors to Vauxhall Holiday Park can also enjoy the Indoor Tropical Water World, fully equipped gymnasium as well as football, tennis, adventure golf, kwik cricket, electric go-karts and much more.

There are a wide variety of luxury holiday homes available with prices for a week’s stay starting at £216* in the ‘Sandpiper’ which is ideal for a family of four, it has one double and one twin bedroom, a shower room, lounge and fully equipped kitchen.

For more information please call 01493 857231 or visit www.vauxhall-holiday-park.co.uk.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2009-12-31T11:10:00.002Z

JUST a quick note to readers and contributors to say thanks for your support this past year - and here's to a busy and prosperous 2010!!

£40m of improvements at Haven parks this winter

2009-12-22T15:41:00.001Z

THIS winter Haven Holidays are spending a whopping £40m on new facilities and improvements to their 35 family holiday parks in the UK.

They say, ‘The stay-cation is definitely here to stay. We’re investing in new facilities, new accommodation and new ways to make our holidays even better for families. And we’re including more in the price to make sure our holidays are really good value for money.’

New Space Bowls
Several million pounds will make swimming even more fun. All Haven holiday parks have heated indoor swimming pools and they’re always popular whatever the weather. This summer the pools at Combe Haven, near Hastings and Marton Mere, near Blackpool will both have fabulous new Space Bowls where fun-seekers can reach speeds of up to 50 mph as they’re propelled down the flumes. And there will be new terraces for sun-bathing, better changing facilities and a unique new ‘SplashZone Grotto’ at Rockley Park.

Free swimming lessons
This year Haven are planning to encourage even more children to learn to swim by providing FREE swimming lessons with qualified instructors. ‘We helped more than 40,000 kids to improve their swimming in 2009,’ say Haven ‘and hope that even more children will benefit in 2010. It’s really important that everyone should be confident and happy in the water.’
It’s not just about swimming – splashtastic fun includes all sorts of extra activities to keep kids happy in the pools. Check out the Water Walkerz – where you climb inside a giant inflatable ball to roll and bounce over the surface of the pool; AquaJets (James Bond style powered submersibles); Aqua Gliders (mini inflatable jet skis) and wacky sessions with giant fun inflatables.

Even more sports
Other activities on offer at Haven parks include golf, fishing, surf lessons, climbing walls, tennis and horse-riding. In 2010 several more parks will have Adventure Golf - more challenging than crazy golf and more fun than pitch ‘n’ putt! Next year Adventure Golf is new at Marton Mere, Littlesea in Dorset and Hopton Holiday Village near Great Yarmouth.
And Coke FC Football coaching will be FREE in 2010 – so you can learn a range of attack and defence skills, dribbling, shooting and top hints and tips for ball control and goal scoring.

Better accommodation
If you’ve never stayed in a caravan before – give it a try! They’re surprisingly comfortable and spacious and Haven are spending £12million to provide even better quality and more choice for 2010. Treat your family to an Exclusive or Platinum holiday home and you can enjoy even more space and luxuries such as ensuite showers, flat screen TV’s and heating throughout. Exclusive holiday homes even have a verandah where you can relax and enjoy stunning sea and lakeside views.
But for sheer value for money you can’t beat the comfortable Standard and Superior holiday homes with everything you need for up to six people.

Great entertainment
Daytime and evening entertainment at all Haven parks will include some brand new stage-shows for 2010, character shows featuring kids favourite’s Rory the Tiger and friends, music, dancing , professional cabaret, pantos, wrestling and international circus stars. Kid’s clubs are free of charge and there are special breaks with lots for under-5’s as well.
You’ll find Haven parks at some stunning locations around the UK with direct access to some truly breath-taking beaches and close to some of Britain’s favourite resorts as well.
And if you book your holiday before January 17th you can take advantage of some excellent early booking deals with three or four night Spring Breaks are available from as little as £129 for a family of up to six on a wide choice of dates and parks.
Click on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900 for immediate bookings, more information and details of other special offers.

Discounted holidays - book before New Year

2009-12-22T07:51:00.000Z

There is a 15 per cent discount available at Vauxhall Holiday Park to anyone booking a week’s stay in 2010 if they book before 31 December.

The 5 star holiday park has a great choice of accommodation and facilities to suit all tastes and budgets and is situated in Great Yarmouth with its 15 miles of golden sandy beaches and many other attractions.

The V-Lounge, Falcon Range of accommodation, Adventure Climbing Wall and Laser Skirmish are all new for 2010, while visitors to Vauxhall Holiday Park can also enjoy the Indoor Tropical Water World, fully equipped gymnasium as well as football, tennis, adventure golf, kwik cricket, electric go-karts and much more.

There are a wide variety of luxury holiday homes available with prices for a week’s stay starting at £216* in the ‘Sandpiper’ which is ideal for a family of four, it has one double and one twin bedroom, a shower room, lounge and fully equipped kitchen.

For more information please call 01493 857231 or visit www.vauxhall-holiday-park.co.uk.

*including 15 per cent discount.

Show Haven you have the X-Factor!

2009-12-14T16:28:00.000Z

AS JOE McElderry celebrates his victory and his debut single looks set to be the Christmas number one you might be wondering where to start in order to emulate his success.
Haven Holidays say ‘Don’t wait for the X-Factor – we’re looking for the H-Factor in our talent contests every single week at our 35 family holiday Parks!’
‘Haven’s Got Talent’ takes place throughout the season – so whether you sing, dance, play a musical instrument or fancy yourself as a comedian – the stage can be yours. Everybody loves the talent show and it’s a great way to start performing in front of an audience.
The talent contest is just part of a sensational programme of entertainment on Haven Holidays parks next year. Glitzy new stage-shows, brand new character shows with Rory the Tiger and his friends, professional cabaret, tribute bands, circus performers and pantos are all on the agenda for 2010. And there are Kid’s Clubs, sports and activities and first class facilities for families as well - talented or not there’s loads to keep all ages amused!
With 35 award winning family holiday parks in fabulous locations around the UK there’s a talent contest within easy reach. And with prices from as little as £129 for a Spring break for a family of four you’ll enjoy a great value for money holiday as well!
Call 0871 230 1900 or click on www.haven.com for immediate bookings, more details and early booking deals.

kids keeping fit while on holiday

2009-12-10T12:19:00.000Z

WE ALL know that it’s good to encourage even little kids to exercise – but have you thought about booking a break that will help them to have fun keeping fit on holiday?

Haven Holidays are so keen to get under-5’s up and moving that they’ve set up the Haven Fun & Fitness Sports Equipment Giveaway for pre-schools – and they’ve introduced a series of new breaks that include lots of activities especially geared for under-5’s.

The Fun & Fitness campaign is a great idea of real benefit to pre-schools and nurseries – now in its second year the programme has been endorsed by the Pre-school Learning Alliance to provide sports equipment for even more children. Pre-schools simply register on www.havenfunfitness.com and encourage parents to pledge their support on the website. If 70% of their parents sign up the school receives a pack of sports equipment – and if all the parents sign up they receive a bonus item as well. Easy – you don’t even have to make a purchase or collect vouchers! Bearing in mind that the kit available could be worth more than £200, clicking on a website is MUCH easier than selling cakes or raffle tickets to raise money for much needed sports equipment.

Haven’s new Fun & Fitness breaks are specifically aimed at parents with toddlers – which makes for a pleasantly relaxing environment if you have small children. It’s a real treat to take a break where having a toddler is the norm – not something that attracts disapproving glances from fellow guests who’ve forgotten the unique joys of holidaying with a three year old! And of course – there’s no need to tell them to sit still and keep quiet – they’re SUPPOSED to be running around and having fun!

Haven have come up with all sorts of activities to get little ones up and moving and in keeping with the ethos of the Fun & Fitness campaign – and they’re all included in the cost of the break.

There are Wake and Shake sessions with lots of equipment (much of which is available through the Giveaway ), a Water Confidence session in the swimming pool with instructors trained by the Swimming Teachers Association; Mini-Fencing, Tri-golf and Mini Archery. Kid’s favourite Rory the Tiger will be championing Sporty Rory’s Sports Day (make sure you’ve trained up for the parents race!) and there’s a Letterland Treasure Hunt with a free gift from Letterland to encourage kids to learn their alphabet.

Regular tot-friendly entertainment on the agenda of all the fun & Fitness breaks includes Annabel’s Creative Kitchen, Little Cubs Kids’ club sessions and character shows on stage with Rory the Tiger and friends.

And, when the little ones have finally given up in exhaustion you can always let them drop off to sleep in their buggies whilst you enjoy the evening shows - you won’t be the only family with a sleeping toddler out past bedtime!

Accommodation is in comfortable self-catering holiday homes sleeping up to six people. If you haven’t tried caravanning before and have a vague notion about cramped conditions, windswept fields and visiting a toilet block in the middle of the night you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Expect spacious comfortable lounges, well-equipped kitchens, two or three bedrooms, separate shower and loo – and heating. Kid’s love them because they’re like ‘proper’ houses but scaled down to toddler friendly proportions.

Four night Fun & Fitness breaks take place at all 35 Haven parks in 2010 on Monday 19th April, Monday 28th June and Monday 27th September and Monday 11th October. Prices start from around £129 for a family of four in Superior accommodation including the early booking discount if you book before the end of December.

Click on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900. And if your local pre-school hasn’t registered for the Haven Fun & Fitness Giveaway make sure they click on www.havenfunfitness.com before the end of January to secure a place on the scheme.

Staycation is here to stay, say Haven

2009-12-07T17:30:00.002Z

EARLY predictions by Haven Holidays based on sales figures to date suggest that 2010 will be a busy year. They say, ‘The staycation is definitely here to stay!’

2009 was a record breaking year for Britain’s favourite family holiday company with more families than ever before choosing to take a UK break. Many of them enjoyed the experience so much they have already booked again for next year.

‘We have a choice of early booking deals available that include discounts for peak summer holiday as well as Spring breaks,’ said a spokesperson for the brand ‘but many of the more popular dates are already filling up. You can still make significant savings on the cost of your holiday at a choice of parks but unless you are flexible with dates and destinations it’s worth securing your holiday as soon as possible. Early birds really do get the best deals!’

Haven have a number of discounts available but due to the demand for UK holidays some of their special offers have already sold out.

Haven’s top money saving tips for 2010:

- April 23rd is showing good availability at most Haven parks and you should be able to save up to 50% on the cost of your holiday.

- Save even more by upgrading your holiday home if you can afford to. A 40% discount on a top of the range Seaview Platinum at Devon Cliffs for a family of four on May 7th will save you around £300!

- Take advantage of all that’s included in the price. Swimming lessons and football coaching are both free of charge at Haven next year – and so are kid’s clubs, daytime and evening entertainment and many of the activities for under-5’s.

- Save an extra 20% on ‘pay as you go activities’ – available at a number of popular Haven parks next year. It’s not just about saving money – you also get to pre-book the activities too!

- And ....finally, make sure you beat the VAT man! VAT increases to 17.5% at the end of December. Haven say, ‘You could be treating the kids to a fish and chip supper instead of forking out extra tax!

For immediate bookings, details of special offers and more information call 0871 230 1900 or click on www.haven.com

Chance to dance with the stars

2009-12-03T16:06:00.003Z

IF YOU are keen to be the new Darren Bennett and Lilia Kopylova - but still feel a bit like a John Sargeant or Lynda Bellingham - then this is your big chance!

Andrew Cuerden & Hanna Haarala, past stars of the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, are hosting a new exciting holiday at the Carlton Hotel at TLH Leisure Resort on the English Riviera. This is a wonderful opportunity for dancers to learn and develop their Ballroom and Latin dance expertise under the professional eye of these sensational dancers.. With teaching every morning to include Mambo, Salsa, Tango, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Waltz and supervised practise sessions every evening an enjoyable dancing holiday is assured – and you just never know, it may be you next in front of Len Goodman and Bruno Tornioli!!

And whilst you are here why not take some well earned relaxation in our luxury Aztec Spa where we offer a wide range of Elemis treaments to ease those aching muscles – or have a St Tropez spray tan so you really are set to Salsa!

4 nts from 1 Feb 2010at the 3 star Carlton Hotel dinner, bed and breakfast and tuition from only £215 per person

To book this holiday call 01803 400500 and mention Dancing with the Stars.

Swiss Chalet recreated at London hotel

2009-12-01T07:45:00.001Z

Swissôtel The Howard, London has built an authentic Swiss Chalet in its’ Garden Courtyard and launched it recently.

The chalet is a special venue for private parties and corporate events right in the heart of London. For the first quarter of 2010 Swissôtel The Howard, London offers a 10% rebate on the final bill for all events held in the Swiss Chalet within the month of January, February or March.

Traditional Swiss décors and handcrafted Swiss furniture has been brought to
central London from the Alps to create the charm, warm and cozy ambience of a traditional Swiss Alpine Chalet. Situated in a quiet oasis close to London’s Embankment, the Swiss Chalet at Swissôtel The Howard, London, has a size of 92 sq/m (990 sq/ft) and will be available for parties and corporate events for up to 250 persons when combined with the adjacent 12 Temple Place Restaurant.

To get a culinary experience of Switzerland, event packages include Swiss delicacies such as cheese fondue, Veal Schnitzel, petits–fours, Orange Brulée or Swiss wines. The Swiss Chalet can be booked as an event venue until 31st March 2010.

Every Tuesday until the end of March 2010 the chalet becomes a separate restaurant within the hotel. During the Swiss Nights traditional Swiss food is being served which includes cheese fondue, sliced cured meats, mixed leaf salad and dessert (apple strudel with custard or cherry cake with Chantilly cream). After dinner, in true après-ski style, guests can perch by the fire with a glass of mulled wine; a scene reminiscent of an evening in native Switzerland.

The chalet will be open for Swiss Nights from 6pm–10pm every Tuesday evening until 31st March 2010 and is £23 per person.

Gear up for Christmas with a Butlins break

2009-11-24T12:34:00.001Z

IF YOU'RE planning on staying at home for the festive holiday why not take advantage of the fabulous, fun-packed pre-Christmas breaks at Butlins?

At all three Butlins beachside Resorts, Bognor Regis, Minehead and Skegness, you will walk into a Christmas wonderland, starting with the giant Skyline Pavilion, the heart of each resort. The 30-metre dome will be transformed with a magical lantern-lit horse drawn parade, a traditional Christmas Market, Santa’s Grotto where every child receives a free present, lots of carols and plenty of Christmas cheer.

This year there’s even more to enjoy with a Winter Farmyard where you can get close to real live Reindeer, Bjorn the polar bear and his many friends invite you to his magical snowstorm, Billy Bear will be busy entertaining you with his Christmas Downloads, Jingle Band and discos. Christmas chaos is guaranteed with Skyline Gang and the evenings are packed with live shows for all the family such as Rock The Country, when rock meets the sounds of country, Altogether Now, a real good singalong, and Sound of the Underground. There are also shows for the kids whatever their age including Nick Jr’s Rainforest Adventure, Cartoon Network’s Game Show and Looney Tunes Live

All prices based on a family of four sharing a Silver self-catering apartment and include accommodation, the majority of activities and all live entertainment.

Bognor Regis
11th – 14th December @ £75pp per break
18th – 21st December @ £88pp per break

Minehead
18th – 21st December @ £84pp per break

Skegness
18th – 21st December @ *£63pp per break

Check out the great offers on Butlins breaks by calling 0845 070 4730 or visit www.butlins.com (The maximum call charge is 2p per minute from a BT landline. Calls from other networks may vary)

Lavish New Year celebrations

2009-11-24T08:24:00.001Z

BRING in 2010 in the luxurious surroundings of a magnificent house at Ickworth Hotel and apartments in Suffolk, and its rolling 1800 acres of National Trust Parkland.

Be entertained with a circus morning, chocolate fountains, laser clay pigeon shooting and giant slot car racing before a black tie gala dinner and dancing. Children are supervised with the qualified nannies whilst watching a movie until midnight when they can join the parents to celebrate the New Year. Then start 2010 either relaxing or energetically joining in with laser quest, before settling down to a well deserved dinner of fine cuisine in Fredrick’s Restaurant.

If you wish to invite the whole extended family then The Dower House Apartments at the Ickworth Hotel are ideal for larger gatherings. With 11 apartments and room for 26 adults and 14 children one really can have the ultimate get together. The four acres of private gardens are a great way to enjoy nature before heading back to your very own private apartments.

3 night all-inclusive package from 30th December-2nd January, subject to availability. Rates at the hotel and the apartments start from £990 (per person sharing) Children under 2 yrs free, 2-12 yrs £225 per child, 12-18 yrs 50% off adult price if sharing with parents or 10% off adult price if occupying their own room. Prices inclusive of VAT, full board, all wine and drink, and everything listed on the programme.
For further details and reservations, please call 01284 735350 or visit www.luxuryfamilyhotels.com

Christmas break with your dogs

2009-11-23T10:51:00.001Z

IT CAN be so hard for pet owners to find accommodation that welcomes pets, let alone 3 dogs! But this Christmas and New Year they can all join you at Byways near Padstow in Cornwall.

With a log burner to cosy up to and an embarrassment of beach and coast walks to choose from, this doggy heaven is even offering discounted accommodation for the owners. For a full list of dog friendly beaches and attractions in the area, download the Cornwall Visitor Guide for Dog Owners at www.cornwallenterprise.co.uk

Cornish Horizons (01841 533 331 www.cornishhorizons.co.uk) are offering up to 5 people (and 3 dogs!) seven nights commencing 21 or 28 December was £378, now £340 or 14 night commencing 21 December was £756, now £643.

New Year celebrations at a real castle

2009-11-20T07:52:00.001Z

CELEBRATE the New Year in style at Dromoland Castle, County Clare and experience a five-star fairytale at Ireland’s most distinguished and historic castle hotel.

Located near the delightful city of Limerick, Dromoland Castle is easily accessed from Shannon International Airport and with great flight deals available from eight UK airports*, there has never been a better time to explore this stunning part of Ireland.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat, a relaxing spa getaway or an action-packed family break there’s something for everyone at this elegant hotel, set amidst 410 acres of magnificent rolling scenery with meadows, immaculate lawns and a picturesque lake, providing a perfect backdrop to your special New Year celebrations.

For a New Year’s Eve to remember, dress up to the nines and enjoy an evening living it up in style at Dromoland Castle’s New Year’s Eve Gala Ball, which includes a black-tie gourmet dinner with fine wines from the castle’s extensive wine list. Guests can also enjoy the resort’s cocktail reception and fireworks over Dromoland Loch.

For the perfect ‘morning after’ remedy, enjoy a reviving stroll around the idyllic estate or choose from a variety of outdoor pursuits including golf on the Ron Kirby-designed course, horse riding, cycling, clay pigeon shooting, archery, falconry, fishing and boating on the nearby lake.

Or, if your idea of New Year’s Day nirvana is a day of sheer pampering, you’ll love The Spa at Dromoland, with its exclusive products from the 100% organic Irish Voya range and the chic Anne Sémonin collection, plus an extensive treatment menu including the Gaelic Escape signature treatment - a deep release full body massage incorporating a blissful hot stone back, neck and shoulder massage.

Enjoy a lazy afternoon relaxing in one of the castle’s elegant reception rooms, all of which feature period fireplaces, antique paintings and exquisite furnishings, and you can indulge in Mrs White’s afternoon tea – a long-standing tradition at Dromoland – which includes a tempting selection of freshly baked pastries, piping hot teas and coffee, all served by friendly and attentive staff.

The Dromoland Castle New Year’s Eve package costs £270** per person for one night including accommodation in a Queen Anne bedroom, cocktail reception and gourmet dinner at the New Year’s Eve Gala Ball with full Irish breakfast.***

For bookings call 0800 056 7434 visit www.dromoland.ie

* Eight UK airports include Glasgow, Edinburgh, Liverpool, Birmingham, Bristol and London Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted
**Based on two adults sharing a double or twin room
***Two and three night New Year packages also available.

Free swimming lessons with Haven Holidays

2009-11-17T08:47:00.002Z

HAVEN Holidays, the biggest provider of swimming lessons in the private sector, will be splashing out even more next season.

Britain's favourite family holiday company is making all swimming lessons in its highly-acclaimed Learn2Swim programme free!

And Haven is introducing free water-confidence sessions for babies for the first time so even the youngest holidaymakers can start splashing with mum or dad.

Every year Haven's fully qualified lifeguards give more than 40,000 swimming lessons in the heated indoor pools at the company's 35 family holiday parks.

The ages of those taking part ranges from tots having their first session in a pool to mums, dads and even grandparents who want to improve their technique.

Haven has more than 400 lifeguards and one in four of them have been trained by the Swimming Teachers' Association to teach the Learn2Swim programme.

Marcus van der Gaag Haven’s Sports and Leisure Director, said: “We are very proud of our association with the STA and are delighted so many children and holidaymakers take part in our Learn2Swim programme.

“Many of our guests say that being on holiday is an ideal time to have swimming lessons especially if they are on the holiday park for a week or more. Next year our Learn2Swim sessions will take place every day!

“Our lifeguards are all trained to the highest standard and there are five levels of achievement to aim for with certificates presented at each stage. They range from initial water confidence to swimming 50 metres.

The Learn2Swim sessions are in addition to the wide range of fun water activities on Haven’s parks such as messing around in mini paddle-boats or surging along underwater with powered submersibles.*

Haven are offering excellent value for money deals if you book early for 2010.

Take advantage of early booking discounts and avoid any possible increases in VAT by booking before the end of December. Prices start from as little as £99 for a four night Spring break for a family of four – including the half price early booking deal.

Call 0871 230 1900 or click on www.haven.com

Twixmas break overlooking the coast

2009-11-17T07:36:00.002Z

TITCHWELL Manor Hotel, near Brancaster, which overlooks North Norfolk’s unspoilt coast, is offering a three night dinner, B&B break between Christmas and New Year priced from £200pp.

The special Twixmas break is available between Sunday 27 and Tuesday 29 December inclusive.

Renowned for its two AA Rosette restaurant, Titchwell Manor is a smart retreat for those seeking fine dining in stylish surroundings. The former Victorian farmhouse now offers a delightful fusion of traditional values and contemporary furnishings.

There are 27 bedrooms, in either the main period hotel, a cottage or around a courtyard herb garden. Pets welcome in selected ground floor rooms.

For details call Titchwell Manor Hotel on 01485 210221 or visit www.titchwellmanor.com.

Show you have talent with Haven

2009-11-09T16:26:00.001Z

IF YOU are inspired by the debate about whether or not Jedward should still be in the running for the X Factor finals Haven are offering the chance for budding contenders for next year’s show to start practising at their UK holiday parks.
The Haven’s Got Talent contest takes place every week at all 35 parks and is a showcase for performers of all ages. Singers, dancers, musicians, comedians are encouraged to audition for a moment of fame on the Haven stage. The judging panel of Haven’s own FunStars promises to be more gentle on contestants than X-Factor’s Simon Cowell – and the family audiences are always keen to show their appreciation. And you never know – plenty of showbiz careers started with a holiday talent contest!
Haven’s Got Talent is just part of a lively package of entertainment planned by Haven for 2010 – which they describe as ‘probably the best ever’. Live entertainment takes place at all parks every single night of the season – and it’s all included in the cost of the holiday. Expect variety shows, professional cabaret and top tribute bands featuring the best of Queen, Abba and other favourites – as well as professionally written and choreographed stage-shows and performances from Haven’s FunStars. Top international circus acts, pantos and wrestling are also included as part of the package.
Entertainment is very much aimed at families with early evening character shows for younger audiences and children genuinely welcome in the ShowBars. And next year Tom & Jerry will be live on stage with an exclusive Warner Bros. Production on all Haven parks during the summer holidays – with the iconic characters there to meet and greet their fans.
Haven have just released their new 2010 brochure and offering discounts of up to 50% on 2010 holidays. Prices for a Spring break start at as little as £99 for a family of four in ‘Superior’ accommodation at a choice of parks if you take advantage of the early booking offer.
For immediate booking , more information and details of other special offers click on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900.

Dog-friendly weekend breaks

2009-11-09T14:12:00.000Z

DOG lovers have long been welcome to bring their pooches in to the bar of The Bird In Hand Hotel at Knowl Hill, near Maidenhead, but with the launch of dog-friendly weekend breaks at the 14th century country inn, man’s best friend will also be able to stay overnight.

Set in the heart of the Berkshire countryside, just a couple of miles from the Thames Footpath and close to woodland and rural trails, there are plenty of scenic walks nearby that may be enjoyed by dogs and owners alike.

Plus, with dog beds provided, along with complimentary treats, plenty of water bowls, an exercise field and a ‘poop bin’, dog lovers can rest assured that their favourite pets will feel right at home at The Bird In Hand.

Dogs are welcome to join their owners for dinner in the character-filled bar area, complete with oak panelling and inglenook fireplace – the perfect place to warm up after a winter walk.

Dog-Friendly Weekend Breaks at The Bird In Hand start from £80 per person in a single room and from £90 per person based on two sharing a double room, and include two nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast and VAT. Dogs stay for free.

For further information tel: 01628 826622 or visit www.birdinhand.co.uk.

Festive packages in cottages

2009-11-05T14:02:00.000Z

A VARIETY of festive packages for couples, families or larger groups are featured under ‘Celebration Breaks’ on the Coastal Cottages of Pembrokeshire website.

In addition to seven nights’ self-catering in a five-star cottage, these special packages also include ‘extras’ to give the holiday a really festive feel:

For couples, Christmas breaks include a traditional hamper full of local produce, a chilled bottle of bubbly and a festive flower bouquet. Prices from £269 per person.

For families with children, as well as a hamper and bottle of mulled wine, also included are pantomime tickets to see a performance of Pinocchio at a local theatre. Prices are from £289 per person.

Finally, for groups of friends – party sizes up to 14 – the package includes a traditional hamper and fine wine, with prices from £200 each.

Coastal Cottages of Pembrokeshire features a choice of more than 550 properties, all within easy reach of the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path and the county’s superb beaches…ideal for bracing winter walks.

01437 772760, www.coastalcottages.co.uk

Vote for Butlins' next generation of Redcoats

2009-11-03T10:02:00.001Z

FOR the first time ever, Butlins is launching an X-Factor-style search for the next generation of its famous Redcoats.

The nation can play Simon Cowell by looking at the would-be Redcoat’s audition videos online and voting for their favourites.

Current TV stars Stephen Mulhern and Naomi Wilkinson got their first break at Butlins and now hopeful Redcoats are being urged to upload their audition videos to YouTube with the best 300 applicants being put through to the next round of interviews.

What to do
1. To vote log on to www.youtube.com/user/wearebutlins and visit the ‘I Want To Be A Butlins Redcoat’ playlist to view the videos
2. To enter log on and upload a video before 15th November 2009
3. Keep up to date with all the latest news at twitter.com/redcoataudition or by joining the ‘I Want To Be A Butlins Redcoat’ group on Facebook.

Known for world class family entertainment, Butlins Redcoats are famed for their high energy, lively personalities and ability to entertain parents and children alike. The holiday company receives thousands of applications for the 20 new Redcoat positions created each year.

Butlins Head of Entertainment Mike Godolphin said: “It’s time for the Redcoats to go online! The Redcoat auditions are always an important time of year for us and we’ve now truly embraced the social media phenomenon and invited the nation to become part of the process. We’re even on Twitter! Hopeful Redcoats are about to become internet stars for the first time.”

Haven spending £40m on holiday parks

2009-11-02T16:51:00.001Z

WHILE many companies are tightening their belts Haven Holidays are investing a massive £40 million in new facilities and new developments on their UK Holiday Parks.
‘It’s all about the Wow factor,’ say Haven. ‘We want to provide the best possible family holiday experience. More and more people are choosing UK holidays and we want to make sure they love our Parks as much as we do! The £40 million investment will ensure that families can enjoy even better facilities and some spectacular new innovations on our parks.’
Top favourites will be a number of Space Bowls to make the swimming pool complexes even more fun for families. The Space Bowl at Haven’s Thorpe Park, near Cleethorpes has proved a huge success this summer- and next year similar flumes are planned for Marton Mere, near Blackpool and Combe Haven, near Hastings. Rockley Park, in Dorset will benefit from a spectacular indoor tower flume and a unique ‘SplashZone Grotto’. Several other parks will have pool makeovers that will mean more fun, even more indoor swimming, attractive terraces for sun bathing and improved changing villages.
But it’s not just about swimming. Haven Holidays are investing in Adventure Golf courses, tennis and sports areas and children’s play areas.
Self-catering will be even more relaxed with Papa John’s pizzas coming to more parks - including Burnham on Sea, Cala Gran, Devon Cliffs and Hafan y Mor. The Mash and Barrel cafe lounges, which have been exceptionally popular with guests on a number of Parks, will be rolled out to Reighton Sands and Church Farm for 2010.
And £12million will be spent on new accommodation. Haven offer a wide choice of holiday homes to suit all styles and budgets from the luxurious ‘Exclusive’ and ‘Platinum’ range to the comfortably appointed but more economic ‘Standard’ and ‘Superior’ caravans.
‘It’s all about exceeding guest expectations,’ say Haven. ‘Our parks are in stunning locations but that’s not enough. We need to provide a complete experience that includes first class facilities, comfortable and welcoming accommodation, a wide range of activities and excellent entertainment as well.’
They also offer excellent value for money. Take advantage of early booking discounts and avoid any possible increases in VAT by booking before the end of December. Prices start from as little as £99 for a four night Spring break for a family of four – including the half price early booking deal.
Call 0871 230 1900 or click on www.haven.com. The new 2010 Haven brochure – and the new 2010 website will be live from November 6th.

City and countryside breaks combined

2009-11-02T09:24:00.002Z

WHERE could you be caught up in the vibrancy of the city one minute and relaxing in the peace and quiet of rural tranquility the next?
Sheffield and the Peaks of course!
With the stunning scenery of The Peak District only 15 minutes from Sheffield, with many free attractions and activities and accommodation ranging from boutique to budget, you can enjoy the perfect combination for a day, weekend or week-long break for any budget.

Peak Perfect
Take time to ‘Take a Peak’ into a world of grandeur at the Palace of the Peaks - Chatsworth House. Well worth a visit at any time of the year, A Candlelit Christmas (01 November – 23 December), offers an extra special reason to visit, with traditional Christmas decorations and candlelight attracting visitors from far and wide. Just 15 minutes from Sheffield lies The Peak District National Park. Experience adventure on all levels, from climbing and bouldering, to picturesque strolls and scenic walking trails. Visit the delightful villages of Bakewell, Castleton and Hathersage, stay in the Peaks to walk in the footsteps of the Brontë’s, enjoy a delicious cream tea or some traditional pub grub in front of a roaring open fire. The renowned Old Bakewell Pudding Shop in Eyam Village is well worth a visit for a taste sensation and don’t forget to wrap up warm for Treak Cliff Cavern!

Sensational Sheffield
Fill the senses with a Sheffield winter events programme, full of sights and sounds for all ages. Towering almost 60 metres above the city, view it day or night from the warmth with The Wheel of Sheffield (until 10 January 2010). Escape the cold with a trip to Sheffield Winter Garden, this green oasis in the heart of the city houses the largest temperate glasshouse in any European city centre. Enjoy an illuminated, magical winter wonderland with a Real Magical Christmas at Sheffield Botanical Gardens (11-13 December). For your Christmas shopping needs visit Kelham Island Museum Victorian Christmas Markets (5 -6 December) or Meadowhall Shopping Centre, Europe’s largest undercover shopping centre.

Culturally Cool vs Family Fun
Sheffield’s music festival is available 365 days a year which may be music to your ears! From the impressive Don Valley Stadium, which has recently hosted U2, to superb live music venues such as The Plug and Leadmill. Art, culture and literature are celebrated by Museums Sheffield and the many cultural festivals unique to the city. Make a silver bowl or a copper spoon or take a Steel Walk with Galvanize Sheffield: Festival of Contemporary Metal Design ( 6th November – 6th December). If you missed out on the Magner’s Sheffield Grin Up North Comedy Festival (1-31 October), why not sample some Yorkshire humour The Last Laugh Comedy Club held every Friday at Sheffield City Hall?

Spooky fun isn’t just for Halloween, ghoulish entertainment continues throughout winter with the Steel City Ghost Tours. Wrap up warm and discover the darker side of Sheffield with haunting tales and gruesome stories told by tour guide, Mr Dreadful. No winter trip to the theatre would be complete with a family pantomime. Find out where the funniest panto of them all is, with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Lyceum Theatre (10 December - 10 January 2010). Witness the dazzling spectacle of glitz, sweat and sequins as the Strictly Come Dancing The Live Tour 2010 comes to Sheffield Arena (29-31 January 2010).

Feeling Peckish?
Sink your teeth into top notch, locally reared produce at Sheffield’s first true gastropub and winner of the local Restaurant of the Year award, The Milestone Restaurant & Bar near Kelham Island, take a trip to Hunter’s Bar and enjoy a traditional Italian treat at the illustrious Nonnas restaurant on Ecclesall Road or venture to Moran’s Winebar & Restaurant on Abbeydale Road for a critically acclaimed feast. For a tasty treat in the heart of the action, try Leopold Square, a secluded retreat of Grade II listed buildings, packed full of bars and restaurants with a varierty of world cuisine on offer. Sample small plates at Platillos or Kashmiri cuisine at Yorkshire’s famous Aagrah. Try modern Yorkshire cuisine at The Wig & Pen in the stunning Georgian Cathedral Quarter, while nearby Silversmiths, (housed in a former Silversmiths) celebrates Sheffield’s industrial past with unique displays of the city’s culinary trademarks and it’s choice of Sheffield cutlery.

Bars & Stars
The evening wouldn’t be complete without a tipple or two. On West Street, boogie in former fire station at Bungalows and Bears, enjoy glass of fizz in Sylvester’s Piano Bar, or star gaze at Crystal, with its stunning glass roof. For an alternative beat, try The Showroom Café Bar with it’s unmistakable art deco exterior or The Forum Cafe Bar in the trendy Devonshire Quarter, a bohemian microcosm, where you can shop, eat, drink and dance. Relax in The Lounge Bar and Restaurant on Glossop Road and be wined and dined by the brothers Szurko who have previously entertained the likes of Noel Gallagher and Mick Jagger.

The new ‘Take a Peak’ Sheffield and the Peaks short break packages are great value for money and offer fantastic flexibility for creating your own unique getaway. With prices starting from as little as £62.00 per night for a B&B stay for two, you can certainly beat the winter blues whatever the budget, occasion or activity. Take a Peak – you won’t regret it!

For further information about Yorkshire South visit www.yorkshiresouth.com or call 0871 700 2214