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You are here: real days out
By Alan, on April 7th, 2012
In Lancashire is the wonderful small town of Clitheroe which is located on the river Ribble. The town is located very close to Pendle Hill, the history of this part of the UK is particularly interesting. Pendle Hill is one of the locations where witches were burned in the past and is a fascinating insight into a darker point in British history.
The town is very ancient and was initially established as a market town. Still today some of these traditions are maintained and every Wednesday there is a market where livestock are traded in the town centre.
The town also has a fascinating castle which was built to honour the stewards who were responsible for administrating the royalties of the kingdom. They were also responsible for some of the administrative duties within the borough.
Today boroughs don’t really have any relevance, but in the past they were important as more people were involved with the manufacture of cotton, as well as its processing. The stewards would be responsible for making sure that all of the machinery involved in this production process was maintained.
Another great attraction to visit in Clitheroe is the Parker family’s ancestral home. This is a grand building called Browsholme Hall and it was constructed in the early 16th century. If you are interested in this building then you should check the opening times before you go as it is only open some days of the week, and these can vary throughout the year.
If you are interested in seeing a wild boar then you should head to Chipping, where you will find Boland Wild Boar Park. As well as wild boar, there are plenty of other animals here including the rare red squirrel, llamas as well as wallabies. There is also some spectacular countryside to just enjoy on foot around this area.
By Alan, on April 6th, 2012
Many people find that even when the weekend arrives, they are still troubled by the many problems they have at home. Sometimes the weekend doesn’t feel as if it is a break from stress at all and isn’t the opportunity to recharge your batteries that it should be.
A great way to make sure that you escape the stresses of everyday life is to take a short break and one of the best places to do this in the UK is Cumbria. This place is known for its scenic beauty and many people regarded as one of the most stunning locations in England. To the west is the Irish Sea and to the north is Scotland. If you’re coming here for a short break there are plenty of accommodation options to suit any requirement.
One of the reasons the area is so beautiful is because much of it has been declared a national park, one of the U.K.’s most famous, the Lake District. The Lake District as a destination for adventurous people who enjoy hiking, climbing, biking, kayaking and abseiling.
Cumbria is a very diverse area with countryside that is sure to soothe the soul. Staying in a cottage in the area is going to be one of your best bets as it will provide an affordable option with all of the conveniences you would expect.
If you ask looking to spend a bit more money there are also luxury cottages available which include such facilities as tennis courts and swimming pools. It is very easy to find a cottage in the Lake District that will suit your budget and requirements by going online. There are many sites dedicated to the tourist industry in the Lake District and they will be able to guide you further in booking your perfect short break accommodation.
By Alan, on April 3rd, 2012
 A great Easter beckons in Staffordshire If you are in Staffordshire this Easter then you are in for a real treat, whether you love making bonnets, going on Easter eggs hunts or simply spending quality time with friends and family. There is something for everyone in this lovely county this Easter, full details of everything on offer can be found at www.enjoystaffordshire.com.
Parents who are looking for great adventures with their children during the Easter holidays can head to the Audley Climbing Centre in Stoke-on-Trent, or to Tittesworth Water near Leak where 5 action packed activity days can be had for price of 4 thanks to Peak Pursuits.
You will have the choice of climbing, canoeing, kayaking, scrambling, raft building and archery. The activities have been running since the 1st April and cost £25 a day, and are suitable for children aged 7-14.
For the perfect place to stay overnight and make the most of the Easter weekend, Alton Towers Resort is
offering egg-citing short breaks, including two tickets for the price of one to enter both the waterpark and theme park! Test your nerves on the terrifying new ride Nemesis Sub-Terra, watch Ice Age the 4D Experience at the new 4D cinema, or try out the wonderfully wacky waterpark.
Fancy getting back to basics over Easter? Head to Drayton Manor Theme Park’s brand new 90-pitch campsite, and take the chance to explore the surrounding Staffordshire cities, towns and countryside, as well as being next door to the theme park’s top attractions and rides!
Families can go ‘Mad as a Hatter’ at Trentham Monkey Forest near Stoke-on- Trent and enjoy lively weekend performances from Alice in Wonderland, listen to story telling and sing and dance with the Wonderland characters. Family activities run from 31 March to 15 April.
Kids and the young at heart will love the Easter Egg Hunt around Trentham Gardens – follow the clues to find your prize from 6 to 9 April, then take a boat ride, jump on the miniature train or enjoy beautiful scenery on the lakeside walk.
It’s all about the animals at the National Forest Adventure Farm, near Burton Upon Trent this Easter. From 31 March to 15 April children can track down the animals hiding on the Easter trail, feed the lambs, help collect eggs from the newly rescued ex-battery farm chickens and see the famous racing pigs!
There will be daily Easter craft activities and an Easter Egg Challenge throughout the holidays at Conkers, which lies at the heart of the National Forest. Children will also be able to hear the Gruffalo Story read aloud in the atmospheric Story Teller Hut, see an animal road show and have a go at plate spinning, stilt walking and juggling with the Flip and Dippy Clown Show!
Traditional Easter Egg Trails will take place at the National Trust’s Moseley Old Hall near Wolverhampton from 7 to 9 April and the Apedale Valley Light Railway, Chesterton, Newcastle-under-Lyme, which is holding its first ever Easter Egg Hunt from 7 to the 9 April. If you’re in the Lichfield area then visit the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum where there will be Easter trails and activities from 31 March to 15 April. To meet the Easter bunny, visit the Guildhall Shopping Centre in Stafford and join the free Easter workshops on 7 April.
There’s no better place to celebrate the return of spring and warmer weather than the peaceful RSPB Middleton Lakes nature reserve near Tamworth. Its Easter treasure hunt will take you exploring though a real wildlife haven or you can simply let the children play in their giant wild play meadow. The Easter treasure hunt, along with face painting and craft activities, will be available from 6 to 9 April.
For adult Easter fun-seekers, an Easter Beer and Food Festival will bring delicious treats to the National Brewery Centre from 7 to 9 April. Organised in association with the Society of Independent Brewers, visitors will be able to sample a range of bottled beers, food and chocolate specialities from regional suppliers.
For an Easter weekend bonanza, head to Stafford! On Saturday 7 April families can have fun with traditional Easter activities at the Ancient High House and hunt the Easter chicks at Stafford Castle on Sunday 8 April.
The Claymills Victorian Pumping Station in Burton Upon Trent will be going full steam ahead on 8 and 9 April as two of the huge pumping beam engines work together with the Victorian steam driven workshop and the oldest electrical generator in Britain. Children will be able to start a real steam engine and follow the rat trail.
Staffordshire’s Thrill Hopper ticket offers a great way to save in Staffordshire this Easter. You can visit four of the county’s major attractions – Alton Towers Resort, Drayton Manor Theme Park, Waterworld and the SnowDome for just £47.50 per person or £142.50 for a family of four (two adults and two children under 12). The Staffordshire Enjoy Card also offers discounts, deals and exclusive benefits in and around the county, and for more Easter money saving tips visit the Enjoy Staffordshire blog www.enjoystaffordshire.wordpress.com.
For more information about Easter events in and around Staffordshire visit www.enjoystaffordshire.com, join the Enjoy Staffs Facebook Fanpage or follow them on Twitter @EnjoyStaffs.
By Alan, on April 2nd, 2012
 The steam train will take the strain this Easter in Yorkshire Although we may have just passed this years April Fools Day, the joke is on us as far as the queues at the petrol stations are concerned, and this is the main reason why the NYMR, or North Yorkshire Moors Railway, are encouraging those who are thinking of heading to the Yorkshire coast this weekend to use their steam trains as a park ‘n’ ride with a difference.
Danielle Bradley is the marketing manager of NYMR, and she says that whenever the sun appears, the roads get incredibly busy with people heading to the coast, but this could be a problem this year with not only the price of petrol but also the shortage of it. To get around this all motorists need to do if they are heading to Whitby from Leeds or York is to park their car at Pickering Station and then take a scenic ride in a traditional train to the coast.
The steam-powered Park ‘n’ Ride recreates the holidays of many older people, when trains to resorts such as Whitby and Scarborough were packed with holidaymakers at a time before a car became a household essential.
“For most youngsters, the holiday started as soon as they boarded the train and they knew where they were heading, and a ride on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway can do much the same thing – no hunting around for a car parking space when you arrive on the coast, and the journey by train is more picturesque and relaxing than travelling by car,” adds Danielle. “You even get to see the station used for filming Hogsmeade in the first Harry Potter film, and travel through the best parts of Heartbeat country on the way!”
This weekend marks the start of daily services between Pickering and Whitby, with the first train departing from Pickering at 9.00am, and the last leaving Whitby for the return journey at 5.00pm, enabling visitors to spend a full day on the coast. Whitby’s station is at the heart of the town, just a few yards away from its famous harbour.
Similarly, anyone holidaying in Whitby who is hoping to explore the beautiful North York Moors national park can get on a train and head into the heart of the countryside, ideal for Easter walks. Dogs are welcome on the train, too, for anyone taking advantage of Whitby’s canine-friendly accommodation.
If the fuel strike does go ahead, NYMR is ready and prepared, with full stocks of coal and diesel to keep its heritage engines running. Fares are £22.50 for adults, £19.50 for seniors and £11.50 for children for a day rover ticket allowing unlimited travel between Pickering and Whitby with a chance to stop off at Levisham, Goathland and Grosmont Station along the way. A family ticket (two adults and up to four children) is available for just £45.00. Children under five ride free.
For more information on visits to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, please call 01751 472508, visit www.nymr.co.uk or follow us on Twitter @NYMR or Facebook @North Yorkshire Moors Railway
By Alan, on April 1st, 2012
 Easter wonderland at Brodsworth Hall nr Doncaster If you are looking for Wonderland this Easter there is no need to fall down a rabbit hole in order to find it; all you have to do is follow the brown signs that will take you to Brodsworth Hall and Gardens near Doncaster. They are hosting 2 fun packed weeks of Alice in Wonderland themed trails around the stunning restored gardens.
From now until Sunday the 15th April the 19th century gardens which were designed to give a surprise around each corner, will have an additional 6 unusual features.
These are mirrors that will both squash and stretch visitors reflections to recreate the shrinking and growing experience that Alice encountered on her trip to Wonderland in the world famous book by Lewis Carroll.
“This is a great way for people of all ages to enjoy Easter, and unlike Alice in the original stories, we have not one looking glass but six, all hidden around the gardens, just waiting to be discovered by curious and curiouser visitors!” says English Heritage’s regional events manager, Jon Hogan. “We’re just hoping that we don’t get any white rabbits in the gardens – they play havoc with the lawns and eat some of the beautiful plants that our gardening team has put in to add colour in the summer months!”
The gardens at Brodsworth Hall have often been compared to Alice’s Wonderland, with bridges, and tunnels connecting paths within different parts of the garden to make exploring the restored Victorian gardens a real pleasure. There’s even a croquet lawn, although users generally use traditional mallets and balls rather than flamingos and hedgehogs!
The enchanting trail runs each day during the Easter holidays (31 March to 15 April) within the gardens of Brodsworth Hall. Admission prices are £5.70 for adults, £5.10 for concessions and £3.10 for children, which includes entry to the gardens and the Servant’s Wing. Entry to the Hall is available for an additional fee. English Heritage members get in free.
The Magic Mirror Garden & Alice in Wonderland Trail is the first of Brodsworth Hall’s exciting programme of events for 2012, which will include a chance to wander around the house by candlelight on 18 & 19 May, a Right Royal Weekend for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee (3-5 June), afternoon band concerts every Sunday throughout the summer, and the return of the autumn son-et-lumiere spectacular, The Enchanted Garden, from 26 October to 4 November.
For more information, please visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/brodsworthhall
By Alan, on April 1st, 2012
The Blackpool Illuminations have been in place for over 100 years and they are something that draw people from all over the country. Thousands of people come to Blackpool to view the illuminations every year and as time has gone by they have shown no indication of being less popular than they were when they first opened. In fact, the Blackpool illuminations are so popular that people often come to Blackpool just to see them.
The entire set of illuminations is made up of over 1 million bulbs and although many people believe that they are left on all the time, they are actually only turned on in the early evening, and they are turned off at around midnight. The time at which the illuminations are turned on each day changes as they are always turned on when dark is approaching, and this varies throughout the year.
It is not just the Blackpool Illuminations that draw people to the city however, and there are plenty of activities that will keep visitors to Blackpool entertained even when the illuminations are turned off.
Another very famous location in Blackpool is the Blackpool Pleasure Beach where visitors will find numerous attractions and rides that are sure to keep them entertained. Interestingly, the tower at Blackpool Pleasure Beach was actually constructed two years before the Pleasure Beach itself. While the tower is the same structure as when it was first constructed most of the rides have been replaced as people have demanded updates.
One of the most notable rollercoaster is that the Pleasure Beach is the Pepsi Max Big One. This is an adrenaline pumping rollercoaster ride that can be seen from miles away, even from the motorway approach to Blackpool. There are some traditional rollercoasters at the Pleasure Beach however and there is even one made out of wood.
Blackpool has been a popular location for stag parties for a very long time and there are a large number of clubs and bars in the town that cater to this demand. This does mean that older people visiting Blackpool might find it a bit too rowdy.
Furthermore, if you are visiting with your family then you should make sure that your hotel does not allow this sort of party, otherwise you will probably find your stay being disturbed. However, whether you are looking for quiet accommodation, or stag party accommodation, you are sure to find something to suit your needs.
By Alan, on March 24th, 2012
 Museum taken over by rabbits and toads this Easter For two weeks between 31st March-15th April there are to be free daily Easter egg hunts at Henley On Thames’ River and Rowing museum. Fun and educational, you will discover a wealth of river and rowing history around the museum while you are hunting for the clues to win a prize.
For parents there is the award winning cafe to relax in, as well as viewing the special temporary exhibitions. Two special family days are being held on the 5th and 12th April, giving everyone the chance to get close to the adorable animals and learn more about wildlife conservation.
There will also be secret daily visits of the Easter Bunny to the River and Rowing Museum that’s open daily from 10am-5pm, and will be setting a challenge for all the young visitors. Children can explore the galleries of the museum while hunting for clues that will help them solve the puzzle to win one of the delicious prizes.
In addition, two special events are scheduled around Easter: The Toads on the Thames workshop on Thursday 5 April and Wildlife Rocks! on Thursday 12 April. Learn how to care for local wildlife and get up close to some of the animals cared for by Harper Asprey Wildlife Rescue. Full details below.
While children are hunting for clues in the easter egg hunt or learning about the surrounding river life, parents can view the temporary exhibitions or enjoy the award winning café. One extraordinary exhibition features more than 30 works of art by one of Britain’s most influential modern artists – John Piper, the other charts the history of British Olympic Rowing success through a fascinating collection of medals, artefacts and stories. More details: http://bit.ly/RRMreleases
Easter Highlights:
Egg Hunts
Daily 31 March – 15 April
10:00 – 17:00
Explore the museum galleries and look for clues to help solve the puzzle and win Easter Egg prizes
Toads on the Thames
Thursday 5 April
10.30 – 16:00
Mr Toad is very excited about this event! Join him and Froglife, a national wildlife charity committed to the conservation of amphibians and reptiles, to learn loads about frogs and toads and discover how you can help them. Plus lots of fun activities and froggy arts and crafts.
Froglife will also run 3 pond dipping sessions (11.30am, 1pm & 2.30pm); to sign up for one, call 01491 415605 as places are limited.
FREE with admission
No need to book
Wildlife Rocks!
Thursday 12 April
10.30 – 16:00
Harper Asprey Wildlife Rescue are back with some of the adorable creatures in their care. Your chance to get up close and stroke the animals. They will also do 2 light-hearted presentations about our amazing wildlife at 11am and 1.30pm. Plus lots of fun things to make.
FREE with admission
No need to book
By Alan, on March 23rd, 2012
The city of Brighton has something to offer everyone, with comedy and cabaret featured nightly over at the Komedia or arts and entertainment in the downtown district occurring from daybreak to daybreak.
Some of the top bands stop by the Brighton Centre and some of the top world performers including ballet and operas stop regularly by the Brighton Dome. With all of this activity it is easy to see how captivating Brighton can be, and this is only the tip of the iceberg in regards to what the city has to offer.
Those that are not as worried about where they are going to party their nights away will want to haed towards the Brighton Pier and stroll down the promenade as it’s an exhilarating experience that will help you clear your head and see the waterfront at the same time.
Those who would rather sit should jump on the oldest railway in England, Volk’s Electric Railway, and check out the Regency terraces of Madeira Drive and all the way up to the marina. The pier itself is well worth the journey whichever way you arrive as the area comes alive with activity and offers some of the best seafood in the southeast.
After hours, the nightlife in Brighton is usually split into three different districts by their geographical location. The seafront is largely formed of clubs that are tucked away into the old arches, Kemp Town which is considered to be bohemian and fringe orientated, and of course the Lanes and North Laine areas which is the most traditional nightlife scene where bars and clubs appeal to the normal party animal.
Some of the best clubs in Brighton include Ocean Rooms where you will find three floors of nightclub festivities, Concorde where you will find music and dance that lasts all night, and the sophisticated Audio where gigs are held on a regular basis in a very intimate environment that makes you feel as if you are at sound check instead of a concert.
These are just a few of the many clubs in Brighton, but there is sure to be one that fits your taste as there literally is a club designed to meet every personality.
Live music is also very popular in Brighton with plenty of venues spread out across the three major nightlife districts as well. At times, the Concorde turns into a rock venue which can make for a lively and entertaining concert with some great lighting effects.
Those who enjoy folk music and a lighter feel may want to head towards The Old Market located in Hove. Brighton Dome and Komedia on the other hand are great musical venues that are hosts to all types of genres and musical groups.
Before you can head out on the town however you will need to fill up your stomach which is easy to do since Brighton is considered by some to be pure gastro pub heaven. There are great choices for all budgets and tastes including some of the best veggie treats and some of the best seafood in the country.
After all, there is a reason that Brighton restaurants are always taking home awards at the Observer Food Awards, because in this south east city the chefs really know how to add some flavour to any meal.
By Alan, on March 16th, 2012
 Singing lions and dancing bears are all in a days work at Gulliver's World Working in a theme park sound the ideal job, and should be fun and games all day long, but is it? James Day, a 29 year old entertainments co-ordinator at Gullivers World, has let us all into his world for a day to show us exactly what the job really entails.
James started his career at Gulliver’s 5 years ago at the company’s site Milton Keynes site. He is now an adopted Warringtonian following his 2009 move to Cheshire.
The starts with JD, as he is known to his colleagues, grabbing a coffee at 8am before he heads off into the Star Studios recording school, a facility that offers birthday party packages for those budding popstars in our midst.
He said: “Life at Gulliver’s is so varied – it’s a huge part of what I love about the job. Today has been a funny day in the studio, we’ve been getting all the scripts ready for our new entertainers.
“Leonard the Lion – one of our park mascots – has been recording his new show for 2012 and we’ve just taken a booking for a Rock Diva birthday party. They are always great fun to do because you’re creating a really unique experience the birthday boy or girl will always remember.”
The morning has already flown by in a whirlwind of scripts, costumes and customer phone calls, and the afternoon is already looking just as hectic for JD, who is also responsible for designing, writing, choreographing – and starring in – the park’s popular shows.
He said: “Our dance school is having a busy day preparing to take part in a big show in a few weeks with other local dance schools, so I pop in to check how the routines are coming along just after lunch.”
“It’s then straight into a big Halloween meeting, planning costumes, sets, shows and fireworks. We run Halloween for the whole October half term week as it’s a really fun, safe way for children to get their Halloween fix without going out trick or treating, so we’re aware that a lot of parents rely on us to pull out all the stops.”
It’s now 3pm, and JD has barely stopped for breath – but it’s now time to turn his attention to technology in preparation for a new show.
He said: “We’re launching a new animatronics bear show for Easter, so we’ve just had a computer repaired ready to be re-programmed for this. It’s an interactive show which encourages children to get up, have a sing and dance and join in the fun – when we see kids falling asleep as soon as they get into the car to go home we know we’ve done a good job!”
Gulliver’s opens from Saturday 24 March for the Easter holidays, while its SplashZone indoor water play attractions are open all year round with free entry for mums this Sunday to celebrate Mothers’ Day.
For more information, visit www.gulliversfun.co.uk/
By Alan, on March 13th, 2012
 If you are coming on holiday to Devon, one of the most popular accommodation options would be a holiday cottage.
There are many of these located throughout this part of England and a visitor will be spoilt for choice.
One of the greatest attractions in this part of the country are the magnificent medieval castles. For those with an interest in history they will be fascinated by these vast structures, and even those with less of an interest will still be fascinated by their past.
Dartmouth Castle is probably one of the most famous and it was the first Castle to ever be constructed in the country which was designed for use with artillery. It was initially established a guard the entry to the Dart Estuary.
The castle was constructed at the turn of the 15th century and took 15 years to complete. Today, however, the castle is not in such a good state, from the original building there is only one tower remaining. There is also a section of wall standing and the motes can still be seen.
You can get to the castle by taking numerous paths to it that are made out of stone. There are also dozens of steps to climb in order to reach the castle and once inside you can use the installed spiral staircases to reach higher floors. While here, you should visit the delightful riverside garden which can be found in the grounds.
Exeter Castle is another very important historical landmark and it is in a much better condition than Dartmouth Castle. It is also a location where a lot of cultural activities take place and is often a place where music is played.
The towers of the castle remain in place and go up over 150 metres. If you are very keen on exploring the castle, then it is even possible to book a private tour. As well as the cultural activities that occur at the Castle it has a very rich history which will fascinate any visitor. The nature surrounding this Castle is particularly enjoyable to explore.
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