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You are here: real days out
By Alan, on February 22nd, 2012
 The Lake District is a place that has a vast amount of nature; to such an extent you will rarely see more anywhere else in the UK. There are numerous wild animals such as red squirrels, deer, and ponies but also many from farms.
One of the main reasons that nature lovers come to the Lake District is because of the relatively high number of red squirrels.
Unfortunately, this is an animal that has become extinct in most parts of the country but it can still be found in Cumbria. They generally reside in wooded areas and there are special parks reserved for them in this part of the country. These are known as registered red squirrel parks and include Greystoke Forest, Whinfell Forest, Whinlatter Forest and Mallerstang.
Not only are these forests a fantastic place to potentially spot a red squirrel but they also offer a wonderful place for a walk and an opportunity to enjoy a picnic. If you are coming to stay in the Lake District then there are numerous accommodation options which are generally in the form of quaint holiday cottages.
Another rare animal that can be seen in the Lake District is the Osprey, which actually went through a period of apparent extinction between the mid 19th and mid-20th centuries. A pair of the animals was housed near Bassenthwaite Lake over a decade ago and today they are still alive and well in the area.
If you are hiking in the area near Dodd Wood then it’s entirely possible you will see them flying above you. It is also possible to see an exhibition about these animals at the visitor centre in Whinlatter Forest.
If you are interested in birds of prey such as Ospreys then it would be a good idea to visit the Bird of Prey Centre which is located near Penrith. Here you will find a great collection of eagles, hawks, owls and falcons, there are many flying demonstrations throughout the day and there are few better opportunities to see these majestic animals up close. There is also a tearoom at the centre where you can enjoy some refreshments.
Right in the centre of the Lake District, near Windermere, you will find the Predator Experience. This will provide even more information about birds of prey and you will be able to see hawks existing in their natural habitat. It’s not just birds that you will see at this experience you will even be able to see tarantulas and certain types of deadly snake.
For those who are particularly interested in owls then a visit to the World Owl Trust which is located near Muncaster Castle would be wise. Here you will find over 40 different types of owl species from the tiny to the enormous. There is also an educational tour held every afternoon between March and October.
One of the most prolific animals in the Lake District is the sheep and so it is no surprise that there is a Sheep and Wool Centre close to Cockermouth. Here you will find everything you can imagine to do with sheep, including demonstrations of sheepdogs and the shearing of sheep.
The Lake Aquarium which is located right in the foot of Windermere has a wonderful selection of fish from around the world, but only those that inhabit lakes. There is also a good restaurant if you are looking for a place to have lunch.
Cumbria is a stunning part of the country and the amount of animals here is truly astounding. Visitors should be aware that many of these locations have variable opening hours so check these out before you go.
By Alan, on February 18th, 2012
 A new exhibition has arrived at the Museum of London which is entitled Dickens and London. The famous writer was inextricably tied to London and he had a way of describing the joy as well as the despair of the capital city in a way that no other writer has achieved. Many people still regard him as one of the greatest novelists in history.
The exhibition doesn’t take an autobiographical approach and instead focuses on arranging things by scene. At the entrance to the show there is a portrait of Charles Dickens which was painted by William Powell Frith. The artist once commented about painting the picture, “Mr Dickens has reached a level in his profession that very few have and he is very aware of his position at the top of the ladder.”
The feeling of how London would have been in the time of Charles Dickens is well captured in the exhibition. A combination of projectors and lighting give visitors a great impression of the world he would have seen while creating his novels.
The walls inside the exhibition are coloured so they appear as dirty as they would have been in Victorian times. There are also numerous drawings and paintings of what London looked like in the past and there are also several items to aid a visitor’s imagination.
There are numerous quotes from his books around the place and one of the most notable is the description from the first page of Bleak House. From this description it gives a great idea of how Dickens viewed London. There are also numerous manuscripts in the exhibition including David Copperfield, Dombey and Son and Great Expectations.
There are numerous sections based on themes in the exhibition and one of them is about his love of theatre. Dickens said that as a young man he was thrilled by the excitement of theatre and saw it as a great way to escape the misery so often associated with urban city life during the Victorian era.
The exhibition also looks at how people in Victorian times saw the home as something of a sacred location and how Dickens wanted this for himself. Despite his situation, his novels often depicted less favourable lives, telling the story of many people who were unhappy, dysfunctional and often embittered.
The final section of the exhibition focuses on his eventual death as well as his childhood. It was not until after he died that many people knew how traumatic his childhood was. He was taken out of school at a young age and sent to work in a blacking factory and he says this was a time of great humiliation and grief for him. It is thought that this is one of the reasons why his novels often revolve around children who are involved in tragedy.
On the final wall of the exhibition you will see the famous painting by Luke Fildes, Applicants For Admission to a Casual Ward. This painting portrays several people queueing up to enter a workhouse. It is a haunting portrayal of life in Dickensian times and alongside this painting are several words written by the author which described the appalling conditions that were often present in these institutions.
Amazingly, Dickens remains an author who has maintained his relevance today and he still challenges readers with his immaculate use of words to create images.
By admin, on February 12th, 2012
In an England holiday, theme parks are among the best places that should be included in one’s travel plans. And because there are so many theme parks in England, it is good to have the names of the top theme parks in England to start with.
Chessington World of Adventures and Zoo is indeed a place of awesome adventure. The place is not only about rides but is also a haven for fun and excitement for those who are into getting a good stroll in the zoo. So if one seeks to visit the zoo and get on rides, the tip is to walk about the zoo first while one is not yet soaked from riding Forbidden Kingdom’s Ramses Revenge or while one is not yet walking wobbly after a dizzying spin on the Land of the Dragon’s Dragon Fury.
Alton Towers is one for those who are into thrill in its finest. Why not? Even the names of its rides will send one’s heart to skip a beat each time. Well, choose from any of these: Ripsaw, The Blade, Nemesis, Submission and Th13teen.
Drayton Manor Park is a theme park that takes its visitors for one end of the extreme to the other. Of course, while it has facilities such as a zoo and a whole theme park to stroll about on and walk the whole day to for a great time with the whole family, it is also home to the Shockwave which is hailed as the best standup rollercoaster in the entire world! Yes- you’d be on your feet for this one.
Thorpe Park’s most famous ride that defies one’s knowledge of speed is available the whole year to give everyone their share of shrieking thrill. Stealth which takes riders to a breathtaking 80mph ride is the one we are talking about here.
BeWilderwood’s Thorny Crocklebogs and Boggles are for families who want the thrill of the marshwalks and treetops without worrying about getting muddy all over. Make sure to be set and ready for the adventure that awaits in the 50-acre adventure space of Bewilderwood.
Lightwater Valley. Are you ready for the longest rollercoaster in Europe? If the answer is yes then, head to the coaster’s home– Lightwater Valley. The long ride will take you to exhilarating climbs and even more exhilarating drops that should make one keep in mind that the ride is definitely not for everyone. The good thing is, the theme park also has rides for those who are not into extreme thrill. The little kids, most especially, will find joy in magic shows, in dainty spinning teacup rides and in the Mini Ferris Wheel.
Diggerland is where everyone in the family, not only the daddies, can ride and maneuver digger trucks. Throughout the year, except on winter months, the whole theme park is open with all its diggers to serve for the fun of everyone in the family to get into their own diggers and even race on it.
Everyone needs a little shriek and scream from time to time. Everyone needs adventure and fun to let out inhibitions and stress away. For these, theme parks are a classic to go to. But of course, they are not only for kids and for the adventurous. They are also for the young at heart and for those who are into daring themselves by going beyond the usual amount of thrill they seek.
Keep in mind the names of these 7 exciting theme parks in England and be sure to have them in the travel plan to grace the whole trip with shrieks, screams and excitement to the fullest.
Written by The British Travel Guide
By Alan, on February 11th, 2012
 Yorkshire encompasses a large part of northern England, and its long and fascinating history includes a short term as capital of the Roman Empire; in the city of Eboracum, now called York. It is Britain’s largest county, and the greenest, due to the vast expanse of moorlands. Yorkshire has also been referred to as ‘God’s own country’ and its inhabitants will happily support that appellation.
To visitors, the challenge is choosing which of Yorkshire’s delightful attractions should be on the itinerary, since there are so many, but one long-term resident has made a few suggestions that might be helpful, especially for families with children.
The city of York offers a wealth of enticements, and the best way to get an overview is from the city’s walls, first built by the Romans and added to by succeeding generations of residents. The walls encircle the city with only a few breaks, with some spectacular views and a great many interesting detours, so a walk of about four-and-a-half miles may end up considerably longer.
If time allows, don’t miss the York Castle Museum and the Railway Museum and of course York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe. By all means try to add the Ghost Walk to your agenda. It is supposedly the first of its kind in the world, starting at the infamous King’s Arms Pub on the river Ouse; you can also take a Ghost Cruise on that same river.
Returning to the present, another of Yorkshire’s grand attractions is Xscape, the huge entertainment centre in Castleford. This is the place to spend a bad-weather (or any other) day with more things to see and do than you’ll ever get to do in a day, so just take your time. From the new Flow House where you can surf on real waves to the huge variety of pubs and restaurants, plus fantastic shopping, cinemas and all sorts of indoor sports, Xscape is definitely a family treat.
Maybe a bit of ‘culture’ is something you’re after, and if so the National Media Museum in Bradford, West Yorkshire is just the ticket. It’s part of the National Museum of Science and Industry, with emphasis on photography, film and film-making. Entry is free, with the exception of a few special exhibitions and the cinema screens. This museum is home to the UK’s first IMAX cinema, now developed for 3D viewing, but there is an incredible array of attractions to inform and entertain.
If you visit Yorkshire in the summertime, you can hit the beach in one of its seaside towns like Scarborough, where sun bathing competes with lively nightlife for a visitor’s attention. For exploration the options range from an historic castle to the Sealife Centre and a narrow-gauge miniature railway for a ride along the scenic shoreline. In between you can visit museums, art galleries, gardens and more. Don’t forget that the vast and magnificent moors of Yorkshire are Scarborough’s back yard.
By Alan, on February 6th, 2012
 This February half-term get up close with the creatures of the Oceanarium Close Encounters Week is going to be held at the Oceanarium during half term and it is a week full of opportunities for children as well as adults to enjoy interactive fun with some incredible creatures.
The week is running from the 11th to 19 February and children who come to the Oceanarium in this time of going to be able to touch a huge number of creatures from the sea. These include starfish, shrimp and the remarkable friendly bearded dragon.
With so much on offer it makes the 2012 discounted family tickets even better value, with family of three to family of six tickets offered at a great reduced rate. For more information call 01202 311993 or visit www.oceanarium.co.uk
Opening Times:
Open daily from 10am and closing time is 6pm during the half term break, with last admission an hour before.
By Alan, on February 5th, 2012
 Located in the Lake District, Grasmere is one of the smaller lakes in the area and can be found just south of the village of the same name. It is perhaps most famous for being the home of William Wordsworth, the famous poet, who described this part of England as one of the most beautiful places in the world. This part of the Lake District is a wonderful place for enjoying the scenery and taking a boat out onto Lake Grasmere is one of the best ways to enjoy this.
The second largest body of water in the Lake District is Ullswater which stretches for 7 miles. Many people regard this lake is the most beautiful of all the lakes in the National Park and this is probably because of the stunning mountains that surround it. The lake is very popular with walkers as it provides fantastic views and it is also enjoyed by people who like to sail. Cruises are available on the lake so people can enjoy all that it has to offer.
At 10 miles long, Lake Windermere is the largest in all of the Lake District. It is a popular destination for locals as well as tourists and there are steamboats which enable visitors to enjoy some beautiful countryside without the noise associated with a diesel engine. Rowing boats are also often seen on the lake and it is possible to rent one if you want to power your exploration yourself.
There are so many lakes in the Lake District that you might struggle to choose one that you want to visit. Whichever lake you go to you will find a destination with beautiful scenery and a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. As well as tourists, many photographers head to the area to capture its stunning beauty.
By Alan, on February 2nd, 2012
 Sneak previews of Hoveton Hall Gardens are available on the 12th and 19th of February, when visitors will be led on guided woodland walks by Harry Buxton. These walks have been called Winter Woodland Walks and the ticket price also includes refreshments. Harry Buxton’s family own Hoveton Hall, and he has said that the gardens are home to some on the UK’s rarest and lesser known plants, alongside a vast range of familiar and much loved varieties.
He went onto say that the back end of winter was a special time in the gardens as they had masses of wild snowdrops in the woods, and a collection of very unusual species on the spider garden that visitors may not be very familiar with. Mr Buxton added that visitors would also enjoy a lot of wildlife, and in particular, woodland birds including tree creepers, buzzards, jays, sparrow hawks and nuthatchers.
The Woodland Walks are also a sneak preview for visitors, since the Gardens don’t officially open until April 1st. On both days the Estate is open from 10.30am until 3pm (last entry at 2pm). Visitors will be able to ramble and explore the extensive gardens for themselves, perhaps taking in a visit to Hoveton’s recently restored 18th century ice well.
There are also guided tours, which take place at 12pm and 1pm. These are led by Harry Buxton, who will show visitors some of the estate’s more secret byways, looking out for rare plants and wildlife. He likes to pepper his talks with snippets of Buxton family history – so expect insights and indiscretions to help keep you warm!
Admission prices are £8 for adults and £4 for children aged 5 to 16. Family tickets are available. The price includes the guided tour (optional) and refreshments: hot soup, a sausage roll and a choice of mulled wine, tea, coffee or fruit juice. Dogs on leads are welcome and waterproof boots are strongly recommended.
Hoveton Hall Gardens is one of Norfolk’s best kept secrets. It offers a rare mixture of experiences for gardeners, walkers and families – on the one hand there are the woodlands, the water garden, with its natural tunnels, bridges, nooks and crannies, and the park. On the other are the walled garden, with its unique spider gate, the kitchen garden and the early 19th century Glass House – one of only three in the country.
For more information visit http://hovetonhallgarden.co.uk
By Alan, on January 31st, 2012
Fri 3rd February
Witley Court
Winter Interest Walk – Wildlife and Habitats
Learn about the various ways we manage the grounds at Witley Court to benefit the wildlife.
Tickets: £20.00
CS – 0870 333 1181
For more information, please visit: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/witley
11th – 19th February
Goodrich Castle
Half Term Family Fun Trail
Calling all junior investigators! Can you help us crack clues and solve a mystery to earn your prize?
Tickets: £6.00
No booking required
For more information, please visit: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/goodrich
11th – 19th February
Kenilworth Castle
Half Term Family Fun Trail
Calling all junior investigators! Can you help us crack clues and solve a mystery to earn your prize?
Tickets: £8.00
No booking required
For more information, please visit: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenilworth
11th – 19th February
Stokesay Castle
Half Term Family Fun Trail
Calling all junior investigators! Can you help us crack clues and solve a mystery to earn your prize?
Tickets: £6.00
No booking required
For more information, please visit: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/stokesaycastle
11th – 19th February
Wenlock Priory
Half Term Family Fun Trail
Calling all junior investigators! Can you help us crack clues and solve a mystery to earn your prize?
Tickets: £4.00
No booking required
For more information, please visit: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/wenlockpriory
Fri 17th February
Kenilworth Castle
Valentines Ghost Tour
Join us for a special Valentines eerie evening tour around the castle and gatehouse. Kenilworth Castle is one of England’s most romantic ruined castles, but not all lovers who lived here had a happy existence. Learn about their lives and deaths. (Over 16s only). 8.00pm.
Tickets: £20.00
CS – 0870 333 1181
For more information, please visit: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenilworth
Fri 24th February
Witley Court
Photowalk at Witley
For those who are serious about photography, explore the glorious grounds of Witley Court and have fun with your SLR or bridge camera, capturing some of the beauty of the grounds and the stunning architecture. Guiding you round will be Architect and Landscape Photographer, Nick Meers, who will be on hand to help you to gain the best from your camera and improve your pictures. Review your pictures with the opportunity to ask any questions you may have as well as pick up useful hints and tips about using your camera along the way! Includes lunch.
Tickets: £70.00
CS – 0870 333 1181
For more information, please visit: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/witley
Tue 28th February
Wroxeter RC
Author Debates – The Eagle of the XIIth
English Heritage has teamed up with the Historical Writers Association this winter to offer our visitors a unique opportunity to ‘meet the author’ in a series of special events hosted at a range of our properties across the country. Whether you are interested in a particular subject, period of history or author there is an event for everyone, and for those of you who fancy yourselves as a budding historical writer we will also be running a variety of practical workshops that are sure to inspire. Please check the website for further details.
Tickets: £30.00
CS – 0870 333 1181
For more information, please visit: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/wroxeter
By Alan, on January 27th, 2012
 Some of the most beautiful coastline and countryside in Britain can be found in Essex. You will also find relaxing, as well as exciting, activities for the whole family in this part of the country and you are sure to enjoy a day out that won’t be dull.
Rambling is a very popular activity in Essex and some of the easiest UK rambling routes are here. You can simply enjoy the local surroundings or take a camera to snap some excellent photographs. If you are looking for a way to get fresh air and just relax in the countryside and this is a great place to come walking.
The coastline in Essex has many inlets and there is a great deal of marshland which is very characteristic of the region. One of the most famous walks along the coast is the Essex Way which is over 80 miles long. The path is very well pointed out and there are arrows all along it guiding people from the start to the endpoint.
Walking is not the only popular activity in Essex and there are plenty of opportunities for people who enjoy biking. Exploring on two wheels can be a great experience in this part of the country and Epping Forest is a particularly well-suited biking area for people of all abilities.
There are many cycle routes through beautiful villages with quiet roads. If you are more interested in mountain biking then there are plenty of off-road cycle tracks which are well maintained and mapped by the National Cycle Network.
If you are thinking about taking a road trip then Essex can be a great place to drive around. There are many historical sites to explore as well as educational experiences that can be great for children. Essex can be a great place to find entertainment for your children during the long summer holidays.
By Alan, on January 27th, 2012
 North Yorkshire is known as a great place for families, and the following list is just a brief overview of the many attractions.
Located in Malton, Flamingoland is one of the top theme parks in the UK featuring over a hundred different attractions and rides as well as the largest private zoo in the country. In fact, the theme park is so popular that it can boast well over one million visitors per year. Plus, you can easily stay both on the park or nearby since there are plenty of holiday homes available to hire.
Another local attraction that can be a lot of fun to explore in in Knaresborough; Mother Shipton’s Cave and Petrifying Well. The wall itself dates back to 1630 and is the oldest visitor’s attraction in the UK. Here you will find a wide array of items petrified including shoes, hats, and teddies.
You can also see the Wishing Well and the famous Mother Shipton cave. Those who want to explore the area a bit more will also stumble across woodland walks, boat hire and an adventure playground.
Over in Bridlington you will find the John Bull World of Rock where you can find John Bull Rock being produced straight off the factory lines as well as plenty of other sweet confectionery goods. If you want you can even get your own hands a bit sticky and create a lollipop or rock candy. Of course, for those who love the treat more than the experience you can also buy all kinds of sweets straight from the factory gift shop.
Those that love the water will want to consider a holiday trip to Whitby which is a lovely seaside resort that offers fun for families and couples alike. The resort area offers jet boat tours, boat trip tours through the bay, the opportunity to visit the Whitby Museum, and of course the chance to try out what some people consider the best fish and chips on earth.
For more maritime fun head over to the Scarborough Sea Life and Marine Sanctuary where you will find plenty of marine life and the chance to see dolphins, fish, and more up close and personal. Plus, nearby is Scarborough Castle which is a treat in itself.
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