Planning Your Beach Holiday in Ireland - Where Is Best?

By Ian Bowland

What does a beach holiday mean to you? We took a straw poll around the office and it's interesting to find out just what the beach holiday favourites are. For those of us with a nostalgic streak a beach holiday is set in a UK seaside resort with a long sandy beach, brightly coloured wind breaks, a picnic lunch, bracing dips in the waves and hunting for sea-life in rock pools. For the sun-seekers it's a baking, busy Spanish beach with guaranteed sunshine, warm seas and siestas. For the romantics or wild at heart it's a stroll along a deserted beach alongside crashing waves and dramatic sea cliffs.

Many of the well-known seaside resorts and beaches in the UK have been family beach favourites for decades - Scarborough, Morecombe Bay, Bournemouth to name but a few. But how many of us would think of taking a beach holiday in Ireland? Ireland has over 3000 miles of stunning coastline and more than 80 beaches; from golden sands to pebbled coves. And many are a well-kept local secret so you won't be fighting for space for your towel!

So you're ready to go... here are some great Irish beaches for you to try.

Portrush is one of Northern Ireland's top seaside destinations. It has two beaches to choose from the West Strand Beach and the East Strand Beach. The West Strand is a long sandy beach that slopes gently into the sea - plenty of room for everyone. This sheltered seaside resort has great facilities for the traditional beach holiday and also boasts stunning scenery both on and offshore. The East Strand with its large sand dunes backs onto the Royal Portrush Golf Course and is a popular surf beach.

Wicklow is Ireland's sunshine county and it's here that you'll find Brittas Bay. The Bay shelters this long sandy beach and the whole area is dominated by the Brittas Bay dune which cover over 100 hectares. If you're looking for more than just sun and sand from your beach holiday you'll find some beautiful landscapes and wildlife in the Special Area of Conservation.

Moving south you'll find the beautiful blue flag beach of Ballyheigue in County Kerry. The sands run 2 miles south from the lively resort of Ballyheigue and there are stunning views out across Tralee Bay. This is a great beach for families as it is patrolled by lifeguards during the holiday season.

Mullaghroe, County Mayo, is on the west coast of Ireland. This blue flag beach is great for a more adventurous seaside holiday with swimming, sailing and surfing. It's more exposed location on the west coast makes it a perfect beach for coastal walks and bird watching.

And one final thought - make the most of your beach holiday with a beach front holiday cottage, that way the fun and sun of the beach will be just a short walk away.

If you want to stay in one of over 1500 Irish Cottages or even stay in a choice of over 700 Beach Holiday Cottages in Ireland Imagine Ireland offers the widest choice. Ian works alongside ImagineIreland.com in the UK - helping build sales for their internet site.

Great Yarmouth - Traditional Seaside Holiday Resort

By Gary Smithe

Great Yarmouth in the UK is a buzzing seaside resort on the splendid Norfolk coast and has all the perfect ingredients for an enjoyable seaside holiday.

The long stretches of golden beach, indoor and outdoor attractions for people of all ages and the various places to eat with the traditional seaside fish and chips with locally caught fish available too, making Great Yarmouth the ideal holiday destination for all.

The primary element of a holiday at the seaside must be the beach. The long stretch of sandy beach on Yarmouth seafront is about 15 miles, the beautiful coastline between Winterton-on-Sea to Hopton and the famous sand dunes make Great Yarmouth more attractive. You can build sand castles, have a swim in the coastline or just walk near the sea to experience some magical moments at the great British resort at the seaside.

The theme parks at the sea front by Yarmouths piers are sure to offer children an adventure that they would never forget. Great Yarmouth caters to the whole family with everything available you could want from a seaside resort. There are also mini golf courses and facilities to hire a rowing boat or a pedalo boat for a tour of the lake at Fritton Park situated nearby.

There are terrific indoor attractions too. Discover the creatures living in our oceans at Sea World or reptiles at Amazonia. Locally various swimming pools beckon visitors to take a dip and enjoy a swim. Also Great Yarmouth provides an opportunity to go back in time at its latest attraction Yesterdays World museum. Enjoy first class entertainment in a conventional theatre showing comedy acts on the pier at Yarmouth. For those preferring to stay active all the time, there is a bowling alley and ample amusement centres by the sea front. Enjoy some excitement and thrills at the local dog racing stadium or major horse racing events at Yarmouth Race Track.

Great Yarmouth is a holiday destination apt for all months of the year. When the sun sets, Great Yarmouth comes alive as the night time entertainment beckons with casinos, restaurants and nightclubs for you to enjoy a night out.

Be sure to include Greater Yarmouth in your holiday itinerary and get ready for a rekindling of memories of childhood holidays and for a rich experience of British tradition.

Visit Great Yarmouth in Norfolk, East Anglia to experience an amazing British holiday destination that offers many holiday activities. As well as the piers and seafront at Great Yarmouth the surrounding area of Norfolk offers boating opportunities on the famous Norfolk Broads as well as having some of the best coarse fishing in East Anglia. Along the coast from Yarmouth you will find Scratby Caravans Hemsby holiday parks and chalet hire centres all catering for visitors to the Norfolk area. The popular resort of California Cliffs offers close proximity to the sandy beach and many holiday camps including full daytime and nightime entertainment programs for visitors to stay and enjoy the various activities within the Yarmouth Norfolk area.

Ten Hot Tips to Help You Achieve a Happy and Safe Seaside Holiday Vacation

By Keith Pritchard

No matter how long you have been waiting for that long-awaited seaside break, and how much preparation is done beforehand, the success of your holiday lies not only in what you pack in your luggage. Here are ten important points to remember whilst you are away to help ensure a safe and successful, seaside holiday vacation.

Before we begin my 10 Hot Tips, let's remember what may be the most obvious safety precaution to take because so many people do need reminding! Avoid excess exposure to the sun as you will burn more quickly by the sea due to higher ultra violet light level. If you ignore this oft-repeated medical advice you may well very soon suffer with sore skin, which can be extremely uncomfortable. You may also soon dehydrate, leading to headache and nausea. Worse still, you will expose yourself to the risk of skin cancer.

OK, so here then is my main list of other things you might like to bear in mind to help things run smoothly, ensure you are made welcome at your holiday destination, and in some cases, even prevent disaster.

*Arrival: When you arrive at the coast, if the road is in any way busy, do always keep up with the main flow of traffic, concentrate on the road, and don't suddenly pull in without notice. By doing so you will avoid being 'cut up' or honked at by locals, who frustrated by congestion caused by a constant stream of 'Sunday Drivers' need to get on with their daily business.

*Excitement: Try to curtail excessive noise at your holiday cottage due to excited children, a dog in unfamiliar surroundings and so on. If you decide to have a barbecue, don't smoke out the neighbours. Have a word with them first if possible, just in case they any windows open or washing drying that you can't see. They'll be pleased to meet you and make you so much more welcome for taking the trouble.

*Shoes: Wear sensible shoes when crossing rocks, loose shingle or sand; broken and sprained ankles are one of the most common injuries to arise by the seaside.

*Flags: Beach safety flags should not be ignored: Red Flags means danger, don't enter the water, Chequered Flags indicates that the area between them has been designated for craft-use, such as wind surfing, kayaks and surfing. Avoid swimming there. Red and Yellow Flags indicate swimming zones where a lifeguard is present.

*Seagulls: It's always a temptation to feed the birds, especially by throwing the seagulls a few spare chips. Do refrain from doing this though as incoming gulls seeking titbits can be very frightening to small children and the disabled who can't always frighten them off. Partly tame seagulls can also become a nuisance by tearing open bin bags in the search for food, thereby creating a health hazard.

*Tides: Never try to guess the time of the tide. If you swim offshore, venture along rocks, or plan to walk any distance out onto open sands, always seek and heed advice about the wisdom of so doing before you set out. Locals will respect you for it as their relatives or friends, working on the lifeboat, or as coastguards won't be called out, possibly putting themselves in danger, unnecessarily.

*Fishing: Be careful not to discard fishing line on the beach. By so doing you'll prevent sea birds from becoming entangled and suffering tortuous death.

*Wildlife: Seals, that may often appear quite tame, are wild animals. When they hauled out ashore or swimming near the tide line they will sometimes lunge towards humans if provoked. Also do not pursue dolphins in a speedboat; your propeller could slash them causing both the animals and yourself great distress.

*Dogs: When walking your dog on a cliff top, always use a leash. It's commonplace for seagulls to mob unattended canines and for the dogs to chase after them. Say no more.

*Souvenirs: Be aware that if you take pebbles off many beaches to decorate your garden pond or garden, you may breaking local by-laws and face a heavy fine! This has come about since people began moving van loads of stones to garden centres for easy profit, to the potential detriment of natural coastal defence.

So, there's my list: the ultimate 'do and don't' guide to a successful seaside holiday!

I hope it's helpful.

Have fun!

This item is provided by, Keith Pritchard, Professional Photojournalist of 30 years standing.

Please visit: SEA SAFETY and SURVIVAL

Visit Hunstanton Cliffs to Experience the Norfolk Coastline at Its Best

The famous red and white striped cliffs at Hunstanton in Norfolk, UK, are an eye-catching attraction. And during a visit to the cliffs you can have fun discovering the history and nature of the area, either by scrambling at the base of the cliffs for fossils or taking a leisurely stroll to view the old buildings perched on the cliff top.

Why are the cliffs striped?
The stripes in the cliffs are caused by layers of different-coloured rock. The main layers are:

• Carrstone. This is the brown layer and consists of sandstone - sand cemented together by iron oxide (rust). In places where the cement is stronger, the rock is darker and less crumbly. There are no fossils in this layer apart from a little fossilised wood.
  
  
• Chalk. The red and white chalk is made of limestone. Limestone forms in warm tropical climates, which suggests that Hunstanton's climate was once warmer than it is today! The colour of the red chalk is due to iron staining.
  
  

Collecting Fossils
During the Cretaceous geological period, between 135 and 70 million years ago, the cliffs were under the sea, and are rich in fossils formed from the dead creatures which fell onto the seabed.
Fossils are found in the chalky layers of Hunstanton cliffs. The safest way to find them is by cracking open the rocks away from the base of the cliffs, where you are unlikely to be hit by a rockfall! All of the following types of fossils have been found at Hunstanton:

• Coccoliths: microscopic plants.
  
  
• Bivalves: similar to cockles and oysters.
  
  
• Belemnites: similar to cuttlefish.
  
  
• Ammonites: similar to nautilus.
  
  
• Brachiopods: similar to clams.
  
  
• Echinoids: sea urchins.
  
  
• Shark's teeth.
  
  

Caution: Rocks may fall out of the cliffs at any time, and hammering the cliffs could cause a major rockfall. So only look for fossils away from the base of the cliffs. Use a proper geological hammer and protect your eyes, as an ordinary hammer could splinter, or rock splinters could damage your eyes.

Other Attractions of the Cliffs
The cliffs are colonised by fulmars - birds which look like gulls but are in fact petrels. You will see pairs of these birds on their nests scattered along the entire length of the cliffs or circling in the air nearby. It is advisable to keep your distance from them as they may vomit a thick oily bile on to you if they feel threatened!
Also, look out for the historic buildings perched on the cliff tops. These include St Edmund's Chapel. This building, now in ruins, was erected in 1272 in memory of St Edmund who landed at Hunstanton in 855 to be crowned King of East Anglia. Edmund led an army against Viking invaders but was defeated, captured and martyred. The area around the chapel is now called St Edmund's Point to commemorate this event. Edmund later became the first patron saint of England.

You will also see the Coastguard Lookout Tower at St Edmund's Point. This box-like building with its viewing platform on the first floor was built in 1907. It was a Marconi listening post in both World Wars, used for gathering military intelligence from wireless signals, and is now a private residence.

Near the Lookout Tower is the imposing Hunstanton Lighthouse. A lighthouse has been here since 1665, but the present lighthouse was built in 1840, although it ceased operations in 1922 and became a private residence.

After looking at the historical remnants on the top of the cliffs, cast your gaze across the Wash to the Lincolnshire coast to see a sign of the future. Looking out to the mouth of the Wash you will be able to see the wind farm offshore from Skegness, generating electrical power for thousands of homes.

The cliffs stretch between the town of Hunstanton and the neighbouring village of Old Hunstanton, and are part of the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Put them on your itinerary to experience nature and history set against the stunning backdrop of the north Norfolk coastline.

For more about attractions in the Hunstanton area of Norfolk, see Hunstanton Directory and NorfolkCoast.net.

Guide to Seaside Breaks in Suffolk

By Sarah Quinlan

Everyone loves a day at the seaside, packed to the brim with fresh air, the sound of the waves lapping at the shore, sea-views as far as the eye can see and traditional, home-made food such as the classic fish 'n' chips - so why not opt for a Seaside Break in Suffolk where the whole family can enjoy these benefits every single day of the holiday?

Please read on to discover some hotels that are perfect for your Seaside Break in Suffolk.

The Brudenell Hotel, Aldeburgh is a lovely, sea-facing coastal hotel complete with views across the sea, of the River Alde and the surrounding marshlands. The hotel's decor consists of cool sea-blues and sunshine-yellows, and the restaurant serves fresh, local produce - sampling the seafood is a must!

For more excellent sea-views, The Ship, Dunwich is a great base for your coastal break. Once frequented by smugglers, this inn is just moments from the beach and has a large garden, comfortable and traditional furnishing complete with log fire, bedrooms for hire both at the inn and in the nearby barns, a friendly and welcoming atmosphere and - of course, a great selection home-made food and real ales.

Seaside Breaks in Suffolk

One great value-for-money option comes from the Best Western chain of hotels in the form of The White Lion Hotel, Aldeburgh. Overlooking Aldeburgh's famous shingle beach, there are 38 cosy bedrooms to choose from, a well-stocked bar and the choice of dining in the informal beach-facing bar or the traditional oak-panelled restaurant. The White Lion is cost-effective, ideally located and oozing with seaside charm, making it the perfect choice for group or family bookings.

For adults who perhaps want to reminisce about the family seaside holidays they took as children, or are looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of modern, city-living into complete peace and relaxation, Warner Corton Coastal Resort, Lowestoft offers half-board, chalet accommodation for adults only and provide a full programme of entertainment and leisure facilities in the lovely town of Lowestoft.

Two great hotels in the charming seaside town of Southwold - home of Southwold Pier - are The Swan Hotel, Southwold and the Crown Hotel, Southwold.

The Swan is peaceful retreat with a timeless style, yet comes complete with every luxury and facilities of the modern world, and the Crown has a lively yet informal atmosphere and was awarded 'Suffolk Dining Pub of the Year 2009' by The Good Food Guide.

For more Seaside Hotels in Suffolk please visit us at the Suffolk Hotels Guide - the best place to find hotels and accommodation in Suffolk.

Have a Brilliant Seaside Break in a Bude Holiday Cottage

By Dipika Patel

The seaside resort town of Bude is a brilliant place to spend a break by the water - and you're sure to have a fabulous time no matter when you choose to travel.

With a spectacular coastline, friendly locals and plenty of things to see and do, you'll find that Bude is the perfect place to take a relaxing UK break.

If you're looking for a great holiday on the water, Bude has plenty to offer visitors. There are two lovely beaches with wide stretches of sand located right in the town itself - Summerleaze and Crooklets - and you'll be able to explore the surrounding areas from your base in north Cornwall cottages.

The National Trust-run Sandymouth beach boasts a striking coastline with dramatic cliffs, while the nearby Widemouth Bay is home to a fine surfing school.

In fact, if you are planning to take to the water during your time in Bude, Widemouth Bay is a brilliant place to base yourself. When conditions are right, the west-facing seafront is an ideal spot to go surfing - and if you are looking for lessons, you'll find that the local leisure facilities specialise in beginner and intermediate tuition.

All the gear is provided - including full-length winter and summer wetsuits, warm boots, hats and gloves in the colder months and the latest state-of-the-art equipment from California - all you need to bring to your two-hour lesson is a sense of adventure!

Elsewhere on the coastline, you may wish to head out on a relaxing seaside stroll, go for a summer swim or build a sandcastle with the kids - there's nothing more enjoyable than spending a holiday relaxing by the water.

In the town of Bude itself, there are plenty of character-filled streets to explore, as well as numerous fine restaurants and welcoming pubs. Tourism is Bude's primary industry and you will find you are welcomed warmly everywhere you visit.

The town's rich history is evident everywhere - some of its buildings date back to the 16th and 17th centuries. You'll find the town is small enough to explore on foot and there are numerous local shops to discover.

While there are a handful of high street names in Bude, the best shops are the family-run establishments and you'll love getting to know the friendly locals as you make your way through the town.

No matter what time of year you choose to visit, you're sure to have a brilliant time by the seaside in Bude. Start planning your north Cornwall cottage stay today.

If you're looking for cottages to rent in Cornwall, Corncott can help you find the perfect accommodation. North Cornwall cottages are great places to stay year-round - whether you're looking for a romantic holiday cottages in Bude for two or a place for a large group to stay, Corncott is sure to find something to suit your needs.

Why a Holiday in the UK is Better Than Going Abroad

By Mike Del Maggio

Seaside holidays are becoming increasingly popular in the United Kingdom mainly because of the latest economic crisis to hit the world. Venturing abroad can be quite costly and involves a lot of hassle and planning whereas a trip to a local seaside town will save you a fortune and cut out the stress.

So why do people chose a British seaside holiday over a cruise or a few weeks abroad? This is quite simply because some areas of the British Isles have wonderfully kept beaches and luxury hotels with plenty of activities to keep you occupied, including days out to local attractions and quaint pubs that line the promenades.

If the weather is good these holidays can beat going abroad, soaking up the sun on a white sandy beach at the peak of summer is what it's all about and such places like Bognor Regis are said to have more sunshine than any other seaside resort in the UK. If sunbathing isn't for you take a dip in the clean fresh sea or walk along the promenade enjoying an ice-cream as you take in the sights and sounds of the area.

Accommodation at UK seaside holidays are also varied and you will find hotels and guest houses spread right across the sea front so the worry of not finding the perfect place or being able to get a booking isn't a problem, you will always find a place to stay and a friendly smile to greet you.

With any British holiday you can't beat fish and chips and at places like Bognor you will be in heaven because the nearby fishing harbour brings in some of the finest high quality fish in the country giving you the opportunity to really enjoy your meal.

Mike Del Maggio is a occasional writer who pens occasional pieces on Financial issues, whilst working on behalf of Butlins Bognor Holidays in the UK.

Days Out in Bristol - Top 10 Attractions

By Sarah Dawe

Bristol is an excellent destination for a day trip or weekend break. It is a very cosmopolitan city, yet one that is steeped in history. There are many landmarks and local attractions in Bristol. This article is a guide to ten of the best attractions that the city has to offer.

1. The Suspension Bridge
Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the Bristol Suspension Bridge is one of the most iconic attractions that the city has to offer. Rising high above the Avon Gorge, the Suspension Bridge connects Bristol and North Somerset. Take a walk over the bridge and enjoy the stunning views, or pay 50p and drive over into Leigh Woods. However you decide to cross it, this grade 1 listed building is a must-see.

2. Brunel's SS Great Britain
The SS Great Britain is another of Brunel's designs. Situated on the docks, this stunning and imposing ship is one of the best local attractions in Bristol. The ship has been preserved so that tourists can come and enjoy its splendour; it now even features a museum and on-site coffee-shop for those looking to enjoy the shop a little longer. The ship, which was brought back to Bristol in 1970, can even be hired as a wedding venue or events venue.

3. Bristol Zoo
Bristol Zoo is without a doubt one of the best Zoo's in the South West. There are many animal enclosures to enjoy including an artificial island for the zoo's resident Gorillas! Although admission is quite pricey, you definitely get your money's worth and can spend the entire day there. The zoo often puts on animal talks and feeding shows, designed to entertain and educate.

4. At-Bristol
At-Bristol is an interactive science exhibition for children. It allows children to learn about science in a way that is fun and enjoyable without boring them. This hands-on exhibition is open throughout the year and boasts many new installations and programmes for children to enjoy. Situated in Bristol's millennium square, At-Bristol is definitely one of the best days out in Bristol, especially if you have young children.

5. Cheddar Gorge
Named the second greatest attraction is Britain; Cheddar Gorge is a must-see when visiting Bristol. These lime-stone caves are a natural wonder and will excite and inspire both adults and children. Take a bus-tour around Cheddar Gorge and take some great panoramic pictures of the caves as you go. Open all year round whatever the weather.

6. The Lanes
The Lanes is a retro bowling venue right in the heart of Bristol city centre. Play a game or two and enjoy retro milkshakes and burgers at a fraction of the price. The Lanes also puts on regular movie nights and gigs; check out their website for more information.

7. Oasis swimming pool
Oasis is based in Swindon, so it is slightly outside of Bristol, but it's definitely worth travelling to. A large pool with wave machines, slides and chutes, Oasis swimming pool will put a smile on all faces. This swimming pool has large changing rooms, an on-site restaurant and free car-parking.

8. Cabot Circus
Opened in 2008, this large outdoor shopping district is now one of Bristol's top attractions. Shop until your heart's content, or grab a bite to eat in one of Cabot Circus' many bars and restaurants. With an on-site car park and a large Cinema De Lux, this outdoor shopping district is one not to miss. Visit the Cabot Circus website to see list of shops and department stores.

9. Ashton Court
Ashton Court is a large inner-city park, boasting 850 acres of green land. Home to the Ashton court Festival, The Bristol Balloon Festival and the Bristol International Kite Festival, this stunning public park is a haven for all nature-lovers. Golf course, tea-rooms and on-site parking all available.

10. Weston Super Mare
Weston Super Mare is just a short drive or bus-ride from Bristol and is an archetypal seaside resort. Eat fish and chips on the beach, play arcade games and take a donkey ride up and down the fine sand. The beach at Weston Super Mare has been the home to T4's Party on the beach for the past few years which is a large music event drawing huge crowds in summer.

Looking for somewhere to stay? Cadbury House Hotel in Bristol is the ideal place to stay during your weekend break in the city. Visit the Cadbury website for more information on room deals and weekend packages.

Camping Holidays in Cornwall

By Andrew T

In the days of very expensive international holidays, it is refreshing to note that families can still enjoy a great holiday in Cornwall at a reasonable cost. Cornwall is the most southerly county in England with beautiful countryside and variety camping parks to cater for all. The cost of a camping holiday is considerably much less than an all inclusive international holiday where you have to pay for flights as well as other additional items, and also much cheaper the a UK holiday in a hotel or holiday cottage.

Camping is a great way to bring the family together, from pitching the tent, or setting up the caravan to organizing days out, each family member can become involved. Cornwall is a quiet place, but during peak summer weeks can become busy, so it is advisable to book your camping holiday in advance, especially if you have a preferred campsite and camping pitch.

Most families who go camping for the first time, or are new to camping would be well advised to research on the internet, search for phrases like "holiday parks in Cornwall", "camping in Cornwall", "caravan holidays in Cornwall", when you find a campsite request brochures and call the campsite owners.

Depending on what you are after, tailor you search, some campsites have fishing lakes, so search for "fishing holidays in Cornwall", if you don't own a tent, some sites offer pre-erected tents which come with beds, cookers, tables etc. These are called "Eurotents", so a search for "eurotents in Cornwall" should help you find campsites that offer these.

Each campsite differs with their rules and regulations. If you don't have a pet, you may wish to opt for a "no pet park", likewise if you are after a quite friendly park you may wish to check the campsite does not take groups, as ones which do could lead to a less-relaxing holiday.

Cornwall is great for a camping holiday, the county benefits from sandy beaches, great coastline walks and views, historic places, old villages, country pubs, shopping and more. Visitors can go to stunning gardens that are situated all around Cornwall and tourist attractions that cannot be missed, including the Eden Garden project and Flambards. So don't be disappointed, search now a book your camping holiday in Cornwall.

Perran Springs: great family camping holidays in Cornwall.
http://www.perransprings.co.uk

Classic British Holidays Making a Comeback

By Phillip Adams-Wright

For the latest generation a summer holiday typically constitutes a flight to a warmer country, days spent at the beach and a day trip to the water park. What they may not be aware of though is that for their parents and grandparents their summer holidays used to be taken here in the UK. There used to be, and still are, many family holiday resorts here in the UK that still enjoy mass appeal with the UK holiday crowd.

This year and to some extent last year many UK tourists who have struggled during the credit crunch have taken holidays in the UK at a variety of destinations such as Blackpool, Skegness and Bognor Regis. These seaside towns have seen massive increases in UK tourists looking for a slice of the beach holidays but here in the UK.

The weather is the main concern for tourists as if they were to fly to a Mediterranean destination then they are guaranteed sun and clear skies but here in the UK it can be temperamental at best. Luckily in the past few years we have been enjoying uncharacteristically good weather during the summer months and even the months leading up to summer. It's not been uncommon to hear about "record breaking temperatures" in the papers which can often make UK tourists flock to the beaches.

Accommodation is never a problem in the UK, whether it's for summer holidays or weekend breaks there are hotels, bed and breakfasts, caravan parks and many holiday homes dotted all over the country. In the holiday towns mentioned previously it can be tough to choose any hotel in particular and unless you've heard something particularly bad about one hotel then you're pretty safe choosing the first one you come across.

Fortunately the number of activities and entertainment options at these family resorts is both large and varied, the main advantage that holidays in the UK have over those abroad is that when the weather turns sour we still have plenty of other activities that can be done even when the rain pours. In other countries when the weather takes a turn for the worse you will often be stuck inside the hotel waiting for the rain to cease.

Many of the popular family holiday specialists such as the holiday parks situated on the British coast have invested heavily into their facilities and accommodation in the run up to this summer and plans are already in place to get ready for 2010 and beyond. Renovations as well as entire new luxury family-focused hotels have been built quickly to cope with the increased demand.

This article has been written for a leading family holidays company, Butlins. Butlins has many popular family holiday parks in Bognor Regis, Skegness and Minehead.

Blackpool Illuminations - The Big Switch On

By Christopher Auriol

The Blackpool Illuminations have been wowing visitors young and old for well over a century and continue to do so in the autumn, every year in Blackpool, England.

Most of Britain's seaside resorts would be winding down and preparing for a quiet winter by the end of August. Not Blackpool! For an additional 66 nights the Blackpool Illuminations draw the crowds to this seaside town in North West England, attracting a total of 3.5 million visitors. So what's all the fuss about?!

What is the Blackpool Illuminations?
Stretching for 6 miles along the Blackpool Promenade 'The Lights', as they're fondly called, consist of spectacular displays using over one million light bulbs. A vast collection of characters and themes are displayed, along with lasers, searchlights and more. All of the buildings and famous landmarks along this stretch are also adorned with lights - the Blackpool Tower and the Pleasure Beach are just two of the attractions which are lit up.

The Big Switch On!
Since the 1934 celebrities have been switching on the lights of Blackpool. Many big names from sports and showbiz have had the honour of flicking the switch that lights up the whole 6 miles of lights. Past celebrities have included Stanley Matthews, Danny La Rue, Kermit the Frog, the BeeGees, and Chris de Burgh. Since 1993 the event has been broadcast live on national radio and has included live performances in a big pre-switch on event called The Big Switch On!

A Brief History of the Blackpool Illuminations
Visitors come from all over the UK and the rest of the world to see the Blackpool Illuminations, and have been doing so since the first ever light festival back in 1879. Back then, the Illuminations were essentially electric street lamps, but this was amazing because anything other than gas powered street lamps was unheard of. These were in fact thought to have been the first, or one of the first ever, electric street lamps in the world!
May 1912 was the first time the Illuminations began to look anything like they do today. The Royal Family were visiting Blackpool to open a new section of the Promenade so a beautiful light show was erected to mark the occasion. This was so popular that it was suggested a similar event was held in September, and then again the following year.

The year after, World War 1 forced the cancellation of the Blackpool Illuminations for several years, and apart from another break for World War 2 the Illuminations have happened every year since 1912.
Nearby Accommodation


Blackpool has a wide variety of accommodation ranging from inexpensive B&Bs to luxury hotels. You could try one of the many Blackpool Pleasure Beach hotels.

Visiting the Blackpool Illuminations
One of the best things about the Blackpool Illuminations is that it has always been free. Visitors can drive up and down the Promenade admiring the lights for no charge whatsoever, or for a fee you can take a Tram or a horse-drawn carriage.

Christopher Auriol is a European Travel Specialist who works for twilightblue.eu. Visit Twilightblue.eu for more information on Blackpool Illumuniations or if you are looking for a hotel in Blackpool.

Top 10 Free Bank Holiday Weekend Ideas

By Emily Heart

The bank holiday is the perfect time to do something new. You can completely switch off from the challenges of everyday life, be yourself and enjoy spending time with loved ones or get to know someone new.

If you're looking for something entertaining and FREE to do this bank holiday weekend then you need look no further!

To give you a helping hand this Bank Holiday here are the top 10 free and enjoying things to do over the long weekend, whether it's with someone you are meeting for the first time, family, friends or by yourself.

1. Hold a book swap
Hold a 'bring-and-swap' book day where you offload your well thumbed chick lit novels and net a brand new stash of trash in exchange. You can also have a good gossip about which characters you would love to be.

2. Visit a Museum or art gallery
Museums are a great day out. There's always something new and exciting to see. And they're not just for the culture vultures of this world. There are many museums across the country with free exhibitions on. Why not visit The Manchester Museum, The Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery and The Coventry Transport Museum

A trip to a museum is a great way to find out more about each other. Connecting in front of great pieces of art is a wonderful, easy, way to discover what makes the other person tick.

3. Hold a themed evening
Hold a 'themed' evening from the comfort of your own home. Get the girls over and rustle up some nibbles from the cupboard and watch old movies all night. Audrey Hepburn could be a good theme.

4. Have a picnic
Have a picnic in an interesting place - your car, the playground, a local lido or the beach at dawn. The options are endless. Grab whatever food you have at home, a blanket and set off.

5. Free tours
Grab free stuff by visiting local places that offer free tours with fun gifts like a local winery that gives tasters, or a dairy that lets you eat loads of cheese. Or wander down to the local allotments and offer some help. Gardeners will often reward your hard work with a bagful of veg. You'll get a free workout and a tan too!

6. Put your artistic hat on
Gather together old photos and get crafty. Use the pictures to make thoughtful, personal birthday cards for friends, or collages for your bedroom wall, or placemats for your kids' dinner table.

7. Explore your neighborhoods
Visit local places you always wanted to go to but never got a chance to! England is draped in history and everywhere you look there is something to explore.

8. Visit a festival
Go to a festival such as the Nottingham Arboretum Festival or the Green Festival which lasts all weekend and is completely free to get into! There will be live music including rock, funk and many DJ's so you can let you hair down.

9. Visit the countryside
What better place to spend the weekend than in the country. Websites such as englishcountrywalks.com and walkingenglishman.com are fantastic for suggesting walks across the country. From Sunday strollers to the experienced explorers there are walks for everyone. Walking is a great way to interact with people, be it someone you are meeting for the first time, with family or your loved one.

10. Sign up to a free trial for a dating service
A massive 63% of people are prioritizing their search for love more now than they did 12 months ago. So if you're looking for a special someone to start a lasting relationship with, a free trial on a dating site is the perfect opportunity!

Emily Heart writes for MatchAffinity. To find out more information on the MatchAffinity Free Weekend, please visit the dating service today.

Why Are Caravan Park Holidays So Popular?

By Craig Ellyard

If you ever spent a holiday in a caravan park as a child and have not spent time in one since, you will be in for a pleasant surprise. Forget the basic facilities of the typical caravan park from decades past. The modern day park offers a fabulous caravan holiday with top class amenities, and a whole range of luxury caravans in which to spend your holiday. There is always plenty to entertain you on the site, or you can use the park as a base to visit the beautiful local countryside or seaside resorts.

For many people spending a holiday in a caravan beats staying in a bed and breakfast, and allows more freedom than staying in a hotel. It can be the ultimate in self catering holidays with the caravans of today boasting fully fitted kitchens, and - in a far cry from the shower blocks of old - their own showers. And, if you can't tear yourself away from your computer, then don't worry! Many modern day caravan parks provide wifi, meaning you can take your laptop and surf to your heart's content - when you're not sunbathing on the beach or out site seeing. What more could a holidaymaker want?

One reason for the increasing popularity of caravan park holidays is the fantastic improvement in the caravans themselves. Forget the small caravans you sometimes still see being towed along the motorway. Modern caravans have gone upmarket in both size and design. They can be up to sixty feet long - and more - allowing them to be packed with the kind of luxuries that families have now come to expect while on holiday.

Then there are the facilities themselves for the holiday maker in the caravan park. Bars and cafés are becoming, along with top class entertainment, the norm for the parks of today. And the children - who as always are as demanding as ever - are well catered for with paddling pools, play areas and their own on site entertainment.

And should you decide to go further afield you can be assured that the park is close by either to the seaside, or surrounded by beautiful countryside. So take the kids down the beach, to the fair ground, or on a trip to the countryside before coming back to have a meal in your luxury caravan, or one of the park's excellent eateries.

So with such excellent caravans and facilities available, along with a whole host of activities to do, it is easy to see why caravan park holidays are becoming so popular!

Sand-Le-Mere is one of the most popular yorkshire caravan parks and is located on the east coast. Sand-Le-Mere is family owned and considered to be one the UK's most popular and beautiful holiday and residential caravan parks and is perfect for family holidays.

The Best Holiday Regions in Wales

By Tom Sangers


One of the best parts about living in the UK is the variety of amazing locations within a small area. There are so many areas that you can visit or plan a holiday to. And, the great thing is you might not have to travel very far. Chances are one of these great get-a-away spots could be right in your backyard. One of my favorite spots to visit is Wales. There are so many great holiday regions to choose from. The following are a list of some of my favorites:

·        Pembrokeshire is just like London, only completely different. It should be on your first stop of places to visit in Wales. This region is home to the most beautiful and award winning beaches. It also has incredible national parks. And, the area has a total of 186 miles of coastal trails. You do not want to miss this place.

·        The Isle of Anglesey: This is a great area to visit if you are looking for some peace and quiet. The area offers amazing coastline beauty. You can also participate in its festivals - Jazz, Leisure, Boat, Beer, Viking, And Oyster,


·        Llandudno and Clowyn Bay: This is a scenic Victorian seaside resort. You can have tea or visit the 4000-year-old mines. It is also home to Britain's oldest cable car.

·        Rhyl and Prestatyn: These are amazing beach resorts. There is not much to do here but relax on the beach and enjoy its beauty.

·        North Wales Borderlands: This area is homes to the world's tallest canal boat crossing and some picturesque countryside.

·        Snowdonia Mountains and Coast: People here speak Welsh. This area is absolutely breathtaking.

·        Ceredigion/Cardigan Bay:  This region is home to the Devil's Bridge. The Bridge spans the Mynach. You will love the bridge and the beautiful area.

·        Mid Wales and Brecon Beacons: This land is home to the unusual. You will only find four pubs. However, you will find 18 bookshops. So, if you are a bookworm, it may be the place for you to visit.

·        Carmarthenshire: It is known as the Garden of Wales. It has beautiful flowerbeds and forests.

·        Swansea Bay: This is Wale's waterfront city. The great thing about the city is you have access to great shops in a ten-minute walk. There are also great sites to city.

·        Glamorgan Heritage Coast: A beautiful coastline of ancient cliffs. There are also areas where you can lay by the sea.

·        South Wales Valley: This is where rail transport was invented. It is also home to the second biggest castle in Europe.

·        Cardiff: This place has 149 pubs, bars and nightclubs, shops, theatres, restaurants and so much more you will never have time to fit it all in.

·        Wye Valley and Vale of Usk: Here you will find the most castles per square foot in all of Britain.

This article was written by Toms Sangers on behalf of Celtic Haven who provide Luxury Cottages Wales perfect for a Short Cottage Break in Wales.

Why is Scarborough One of the Top Seaside Holiday Resorts in the UK?

By Danny Penrose


Scarborough, North Yorkshire, has always been regarded as one of the best seaside resorts in the UK - a great choice for a UK holiday or short break.

The first thing that strikes any visitor to Scarborough is the 11th Century ruins of Scarborough Castle, which was bombarded by the German warships in the First World War. Scarborough's two sandy beaches, North and South bay are split by Marine Drive, a one and a half mile Victorian Promenade, which is built along the base of the headland. At low tide the South Bay has many rock-pools to explore and both award winning beaches have a huge range of local attractions suitable for all the family.

The South Bay always has been and always will be one of the main focuses for tourism, once the site of a medieval settlement it now forms the current old town and harbour. With beautiful sandy beaches, amusement arcades, theatres, cafes and entertainment facilities for all the family you will never be short of things to do.
Having undergone major regeneration in recent years Scarborough harbour is now much more pedestrian friendly. Brand new pontoons, free Wi-Fi for visiting vessels, street lighting and seating make this a common tourist attraction.


The North Bay is traditionally known as the quieter and more peaceful end of the resort, still very popular with families and couples alike due to its award winning beach.

Peasholm Park can also be found at the North Bay end of the resort, recently restored to its Japanese-themed best, its most prominent feature is the beautiful reconstructed Pagoda. Peasholm is also home to the famous 'Naval Warfare' attraction which attracts thousands of visitors every year. A mock maritime battle which is re-enacted on the large boating lake by human driven model boats and spectacular fireworks right throughout the summer season.

Whilst in the park you will also come across the historic 20" gauge miniature railway. I say historic because this railway has been running 3/4 of a mile from peasholm to Scalby Mills for the past 79 years. Scalby Mills is home to Scarborough's Sea Life center & Marine Sanctuary.

Back to the far end of the South Bay you will find the historic Spa and South Cliff Gardens. Above you will find the slightly less well known South Cliff Esplanade which has breath taking views of the South Bay and the old town. South cliff is home to the famous TV drama series The Royal and its more recent spin of series, The Royal Today. Its beautiful Regency, Victorian terraces and mix of luxury Scarborough hotels make up a splendid backdrop to the South Bay.

Scarborough Town center can be found just a quarter of a mile from the South Bay where you will find Luxury town center hotels, buzzing nightlife, shopping and all major transport links services. For you shopaholics the Brunswick Shopping Center is a prestigious all-weather shopping center with tourist information, department store and many other retail outlets. The town center pedestrianised shopping precinct and surrounding streets host many specialist shops, cafes, restaurants and bars and has a great bustling atmosphere.


Being one of the best choices in the UK for coastal holidays or short breaks Scarborough has a vast amount of accommodation to suit your needs. We have everything, ranging from self-catering, cheap hotels to country houses and luxury hotels.

Scarborough's buzzing nightlife offers a huge range of bars, restaurants and clubs, and for those who are looking for a little more culture, there are four different theatres to pick from. Alan Ayckbourn's Stephen Joseph Theatre, where all his plays have premiered is by far the most famous. The others are The Futurist, The Spa Theatre and the YMCA Theatre.

Scarborough's nightlife and entertainment will meet all your needs. If you are want nightclubs and bars then you will not be disappointed, offering a huge range of traditional and modern pubs, wine bars and famous chains such as J D Weatherspoons, Barracuda and Blue Lounge.

Starting at the lord Rosebury at the top of town the 'pub run' winds down through the streets of Scarborough to St. Thomas street where you will find Boleyn's Nightclub, The Opera House Casino and the Privilege Gentlemen's club.

If the nightclubs and pubs are not your thing and you are looking for something a little more relaxing then head down to the Spa in the South Bay where orchestras play in this fantastic Victorian Complex. An ideal place to relax and enjoy a dinner and dance.

Right throughout the summer, whatever your entertaining needs Scarborough won't disappoint. With a variety of musicals, big name acts, comedies and contemporary plays and drams you will not be short of choice. With live music on in many of the local pubs those of you looking for a more formal evening can relax and enjoy the local and regional bands and don't forget to keep an eye out for local legend Danny Wilde!

If all that isn't enough for you to do on your holiday to Scarborough then there are many other first class attractions meaning you will never be stuck for anything to do day or night. Some of these attractions include 'Beached', the Yorkshire Coast's biggest free live music festival, Seafest, the Scarborough Jazz Festival, Scarborough Fair, the newly refurbished Rotunda Museum, the Scarborough Cricket Festival and the award winning Sealife and Marine Sanctuary. Needless to say whatever time of year you take a holiday or short break in Scarborough you will always have a large selection of attractions to choose from.

Scarborough has many quality first class restaurants to choose from many of which served a wide variety of fresh local produce. Take your pick from every type of cuisine available, seafood, a la carte restaurants to Italian, Greek, Indian, Chinese and Thai. There are literally hundreds to chose from, be sure to check out the award winning Italian Restaurant Lanterna and the Michelin recommended restaurant peppers. The Sea View Restaurant at The Royal Hotel and Wrea Head Country House Hotel's Four Seasons Restaurant. Walk in service is available at these restaurants, however, due their popularity, we strongly advise that you to pre-book to avoid disappointment.

One thing you can be sure of when you visit Scarborough is you will always receive that warm Yorkshire welcome!

For the best available web rates and a luxury hotel Scarborough check out http://www.hacknessgrangehotel.co.uk - One of the finest hotels Scarborough has to offer!

British Seaside Holidays in the 1950s

By Craig Ellyard

The typical seaside holiday in Britain in the 1950s was quite different from those enjoyed today. Admittedly, there was the same desire to lounge on the beaches, paddle in the sea and enjoy the amusements as there is today, but the the past half century has seen huge changes in tastes and expectations.

A far bigger percentage of Britons enjoyed their holidays in their home country than they do today. In the 1950s cheap international flights had not been introduced and the big holiday resorts of the Mediterranean and beyond - magnets for modern sun-seeking Britons - had not been developed.

For their summer holidays the British tended to visit the resorts in their own area, such as Blackpool for northerners and Brighton for people living in the south. A trip to Torquay in the south west for someone living in Yorkshire would have been seen as exotic.

Staying in a hotel or holiday park, now very popular with holidaymakers in Great Britain, would have been unknown, especially to working class families in the 1950s. Holiday lodgings were far more austere.

Hotels were only affordable for the well off, so most families stayed in bed and breakfasts, which folklore tells us were owned by strict unsmiling landladies. Caravan parks were available, but very unlike the luxury holiday parks of today. Washing and toilet facilities were basic and communal. Caravans were nothing like the modern static caravan complete with mod cons.

They were cramped, tiny, and lacked a WC. And as for the modern log cabin, the most you could expect in the 1950s was a small prefabricated chalet, with only marginally better facilities than the caravans of the period.

The British seaside holiday of the 1950s was very much a communal affair. Families travelled, along with other families, to the seaside on coaches or trains. A good example of the communal aspect of the British holiday of the period were the holiday camps, Butlins and Pontins being the most famous.

The holiday camp, aimed at catering for working class families, had been introduced before the second world war, but were still tremendously popular during the 1950s. While families stayed in in their own on-site chalets, the rest of the holiday was communal. They ate together in large halls, silly competitions such as knock knees contests were held, and the British of the time absolutely loved it.

British seaside holidays of the 1950s may amaze the Britons of today. Sophisticated they may not have been, but they still gave great enjoyment to millions.

Sand-Le-Mere is a long established and one of the most popular yorkshire caravan parks and is located on the east coast. Sand-Le-Mere is family owned and considered to be one the UK's most popular and beautiful holiday and residential caravan parks and is perfect for family holidays.