A Canal Holiday on the Four Counties Ring

By Cliff K Bayliss

A popular canal circuit that takes the traveler across three canals, four counties, through the contrasting salt towns of Middlewich and Nantwich, through the Harecastle Tunnel, 94 locks and 110 miles.

All of it superb!

As a canal boat holiday, it has everything.

There is rural scenery, industrial heritage, engineering feats, and warm cozy village pubs.

Now I have to admit right now that we have not done the circuit in one cruise. But we have covered the entire ring over various trips.

We joined the canal at Middlewich, an old salt town, with the very welcoming Kings Lock Inn. Good moorings here between the lock, and bridge 166.

And, by Big Lock, is the Big Lock Inn, serving a fine pint of Theakston XB, and Directors. There is a canal side garden, and it is boater and family friendly. We quite liked Middlewich, good moorings, a useful selection of shops, two banks, Somerfield and a chandlery by the boatyard.

Wheelock also provides good moorings, a newsagent, and one of our favorite pubs on the trip, the Cheshire Cheese, where our kids gave the juke box a fine work out. A news agency and post office make Wheelock a pleasant spot to re-stock. If you have time, visit the Commercial Hotel, a classic friendly pub with cozy rooms.

From Wheelock onwards, the locks start to get serious, with 26 of them over the next 7 miles before to Kidsgrove and the Harecastle Tunnel.

This was a real culture shock for us, Australians on our first ever canal cruise finding ourselves motoring through the industrial history of England operating heavy slow locks that a year previously, we didn't even know existed!

But we loved it, and what a great stretch of canal it is!

Most of the locks along here are doubled, an improvement made in the 1830's by Thomas Telford to speed up traffic. The locks are spread out, so they are too far for a flight, and too close to take a breather!

The remains of industry, and the potteries, are evident everywhere along this stretch. It's a rural cruise now, with lovely scenery, right down to Lawton Three locks, which is closely followed by Church Locks.

And so we come to Kidsgrove. Here the Macclesfield leaves the Trent and Mersey, heading south, to eventually swing north back at Red Bull, the precursor to today's motorway junction, but a lot more attractive.

The canal water has a real orange tinge, and the closer you get to Harecastle Tunnel, the more orange it gets. By the tunnel, it is a rich maroon colour.

Harecastle Tunnel is 2,962 feet long. Passage through is controlled by BW staff. It is a chilly and spooky experience, but, being one way working, one does not have to worry about oncoming boats. The tunnel used today is the second one opened at Harecastle. The first was opened in 1777. The current one was opened in 1827, (completed in three years, as opposed to the original one taking eleven years!)to ease congestion caused by the huge increase in traffic. In 1914 the original tunnel was abandoned due to bad subsidence and declining traffic, it can be seen blocked off next to the existing tunnel.

After the 40 minute or so journey through the tunnel, it is with some relief to cruise into daylight and more at Longport. There is a water point just by the exit to the Caldon Canal.

Stoke is a canal friendly town, with plenty of moorings.

Although most of the pottery trade has gone, you can still see remnants around Stoke, with bottle kilns, warehouses and old factories reminding us of what used to be.

From Stoke, it is a pleasant cruise through Hem Heath where a pleasant little gift shop operates. There are good moorings by bridge 103 to wander into Barlaston, where the Plume of Feathers is a welcome sight

The Wedgewood Visitor Centre can also be reached from bridge 104.

Try and pause a while at Stone. It is a delightful, bustling town, once the headquarters of the Trent and Mersey Canal Company.

Another boater friendly town, moorings are plentiful, and the town centre only a few minutes away.

The Star Inn, by bridge 93, is one of the oldest pubs on the system, and serves a fine Banks, and Pedigree, and serves bar meals. Don't miss it.

In the town, Safeway and Somerfield both have supermarkets, and there are plenty of other shops to restock the fridge.

We found mooring before lock 27 (just before bridge 93) ideal, handy to the Star and the town.

Continuing on through the lovely Trent Valley, the canal accompanied by the rail and road heads towards Great Haywood.

It is well worth a stop at Sandon, a pretty village a brief stroll from bridge 83. There you can relax at the Dog and Doublet with its timeless atmosphere and Bass beers. There is also a handy Post Office and store here.

As the canal turns towards Weston, the railway thunders past, emphasizing the pleasure of the quiet 3 mph canal life.

Just try sitting on the village green near the marvelous Woolpack at Weston. Selling Marston's Ales, this pub has been highly recommended by Pearson's and other guides, and rightly so. Also has post office and store in the village.

Great Haywood is one of our favorite canal villages. With its beautiful towpath bridge, it is as lovely a spot as you will find on the system. There are ample moorings here, especially pleasing after bridge 73 with an outlook over Shugborough Hall We first visited Great Heywood in 1985 on our very first canal boat holiday. We were returning our Anglo Welsh boat at the end of the cruise., It was cold, and wet, so didn't see a lot of the town. We had to wait until 2005, to get back. But, get back we did, with our share-owned boat, and we stayed three days. Anglo Welsh has its narrow boat hire fleet here, where there is a water point and rubbish disposal. A delightful farm shop is alongside the junction. It's fun just to wander around and marvel at the variety of goods on offer there. Great Haywood is also a great place for walks.

Cannock Chase, and Shugborough Hall and Museum both offer interesting and easily accessible areas for walking. On the way to either, you are likely to come across Essex Bridge, probably the finest example of a packhorse bridge in the country. It's just near lock 73. Cross the canal bridge at lock 73 and you are in Great Haywood. There is Spa, Post Office, laundromat and two excellent pubs, the Clifford Arms, and the Fox and Hounds. The Clifford Arms, a pub we have visited a few times, has a nice outside eating area,. Also a friendly welcome. Heading out of Great Heywood is a surprise, as Tixall Wide is more like a lake, than a canal. Depending on who you listen to, this was built to improve the view from Tixall Hall, or it is a natural lake there before the canal was built. Whatever the real story is, it's a unique bit of canal, with an array of waterfowl and birdlife ever present.

The gate house to Tixall Hall is still visible. Cruising through the Penk Valley, the towns of Baswich and Wildwood slip by, their front gardens sliding right to the canal. There are only 5 locks from Great Heywood and Penkridge. We like Penkridge, it's an ideal town to explore on foot. There is a handy fruit and veg there, some great pubs, a Co Op, a couple of banks, and fab market held by the river on Saturdays and Wednesdays. Good mooring spots by bridge 83a, accompanied by some attractive canal side homes. Try the Star, in Market Square. It's a very attractive pub with a traditional feel inside, serving excellent Bass beers. The Library has internet access. There is a handy shop up by bridge 86 as well, for last minute supplies. It is a contrasting cruise through Otrherton and Rodbaston locks, with the busy m6 thundering beside you on one side, and a peaceful rural outlook on the other. The canal leaves the highway, and once through Boggs, Brick Kiln, and Gaily locks, one is ready for a pause at Gaily Wharf. The Roundhouse Canal Shop is located here, right by Bridge 79 that carries the A5, (Watling Street) over the canal. A unique gift shop housed in the original round toll clerk's office, it is a well stocked with an array of gifts, canal ware and souvenirs. Plenty of moorings right down to bridge 78. Viking Afloat has one of their narrow boat hire fleets here as well.

It is now a winding, lock free cruise past Hatherton Junction, where Hatherton Marina is located. Here, a bit of industry creeps in with a few gravel pits and chemical works briefly appearing. But this is only temporary, as soon the welcoming Fox and Anchor appears, tempting a stop for the evening. The much improved Fox and Anchor has a large outdoor area overlooking the canal. We sampled a fine John Smiths, and Tetley's there a couple of times. We thought of strolling in to Coven village, but the busy A 449 soon changed our mind. Autherly Junction is where we left the Staffs, to head up the Shroppie. The Staffs continues through the West Midlands avoiding Wolverhampton, while visiting Cookley, Kidderminster and concluding at Stourport on Severn. The Shropshire Union Canal, ("the Shroppie"), is one of the most popular British Canals. It features high embankments, deep damp cuttings, pleasant villages and towns, and spectacular scenery. It is rightfully one of the most popular British Canals From the Staff and Worcester, it's a right hand turn under a fine roving bridge, and through a six inch stop lock, and you are on one of the finest canals in the country.

Although close to Wolverhampton, Autherley Junction is a pleasant spot, with a well stocked canal shop at the Water Travel base, and water point and sani station a bit further along. But the housing estates and sewerage plant here have always put us off mooring for the night. Wide and straight, the Shropshire Union Canal cuts across the rolling Staffordshire hills. The old Defiant night fighter factory is by bridge 4, just past the Wolverhampton Boat Club. The canal is forever changing as you experience the views from high embankments, then plunge into a deep cutting, damp with thick ferns and vegetation. The first village we come to is Brewood or "Brood" as the locals call it. Here is a delightful village with plenty of old fashioned shops and pleasant locals. Take your time to walk around the streets and get to know Brewood.

There is also a super Spa, post office, a great hairdresser, chemist and newsagent.

The highly recommended Admiral Rodney, well worth the stroll through the town to Dean Street. Friendly staff, lots of pictures of H.M.S. Rodney, and a fine pint of Abbotts Ale. A great pub! Just past Lapley Wood cutting is Wheaton Aston. Here, by bridge 19, is Taylor's garage, where there is a water point and sani station with fuel also available. More importantly the Hartley Arms is also by Bridge 19, offering food a fine pint of Banks Original, and warm, open fire. From Wheaton Aston to Gnosall is a pleasant lock free couple of hours, where you can relax and really enjoy some of the nicest scenery on the Shropshire Union Canal. You will find a very friendly butcher in the group of shops on the right over bridge 34, as you head into town. Also in the town is a Bowells of Gnosall (with their own radio station playing), a fish and chip shop, and a bakery. The two pubs on the canal are the Navigation, by bridge 35, and the Boat, at bridge 34. To be fair, we tied both, and suggest you do the same. Both are excellent

Just through the Shelmore Embankment is Norbury Junction. This is where the old Newport branch headed off, hence the "Junction" in the name. Now, Anglo Welsh hire narrow boats have gone, replaced by the very enthusiastic Norbury Wharf Cruisers. There is a pump out and water point here also. The Junction Inn is opposite, by bridge 38. The in-appropriately named Grubb Street Cutting is a deep cutting with lush thick vegetation and lots of bird life The double arched bridge taking the A519 high above carries the much photographed telegraph Post, still standing as it has done for a hundred or so years. Try and moor where the very famous Anchor in is located. An original boater's pub, the Anchor is still pretty much as it was when it quenched the working boaters thirst, still serving ale from the cask.

It is also a pleasant walk into High Offley, but we never did find the pub there.

Further on, the Wharf Tavern, by bridge 55 offers a pleasant canal side beer garden. There is no longer a shop or post office in Cheswardine. That's progress! Two more cuttings, Woodseaves and Tyrley Cutting lead to Market Drayton Woodseaves is again deep, with the vegetation meeting overhead forming a canopy. There is a 2mph speed limit through this area, to help avoid rock slide, so take it easy! Bridges 57 and 58 tower above in another world. Tyrley Locks are well maintained and in very pleasant surroundings. There are 5 of them, and warm you up for the job ahead. A pleasant surprise at the top of Tyrley, was the Four Alls. Just ten minutes walk from the locks; this welcoming inn was a welcome resting place after the day's locks. The Adeley and Audlem flight keep one moving as you enter Cheshire. There are 5 locks at Tyrley and 15, yes 15, at Audlem.

All are in good condition and easy to use. We usually do the Audlem locks in 2 days, mooring between locks 2 and 3, then down the flight to between locks 11 and 12 the next day. This allows us to catch our breath, and spend more time enjoying Audile. A great little town, Audlem has all you want in a Cheshire village. Winding streets, beautiful church, shops and pubs.

The Shroppie Fly, between locks 12 and 13 has the well known narrow boat bow as a bar. The Lord Combermere, in the village, has recently received a facelift, and serves great food. Mooring can be in demand here. Best spot is below bridge 78. We often moor below lock 15 when coming up to Audlem, and tackle the locks the next day. There is scenic Views right across the valley, where wildlife congregates in the wetlands. The Shropshire Union strikes out straight and true across the Cheshire plain towards Nantwich, with only the Hack green locks causing an interruption. The stone bridges frame each other in the distance, rolling green hills and grazing dairy cattle keeping you company. Nantwich is just about the perfect Cheshire town. Packed with Medieval buildings, most dating from the fire of 1583. It is worth taking your time to get to know Nantwich. Head to the tourist information office, grab a map, and just wander the streets.

Market day is Thursday and Saturday. If you happen to be around there in April, there is a great music festival. Most of the hotels have free live music over this second April weekend. The nearest pub to the canal is the Oddfellows Arms, a very welcoming pub with low beams and clean bars. The new landlord even does a floorshow here on Saturday evenings. One of our very favorite Shropshire Union Canal pubs. Also worth trying here are the Vine, and the Crown, in the centre of the town, which as well as serving fine wine and ales, does a mean cappuccino as well! Plenty of shops here as well. Woolies have gone, but a good butcher, newsagent and lots of eateries, especially along Pepper Street. It can get very busy here, but normally there are good moorings either side of the aqueduct. If you get a chance, walk up to the little town of Acton. (from bridge 93, or head up under the aqueduct, away from Nantwich) A quaint little village, with The Star, a 13th Century pub with mounting steps out the front.

It looks like it has recently re-opened after a facelift. From Nantwich the Shropshire Union head past the Hurleston Junction on the left, and ignoring the temptation to head up the Llangollen, we keep on the Four Counties Ring. We usually pause at Barbridge Junction, where the Barbridge Inn always tempts us. We have never been game enough to cross the A 51 to the Jolly Tar, but have read and heard good reviews of it. Moorings can be in short supply here at Barbridge, and it pays to arrive early, especially in the peak season. There was once a transshipment shed at Barbridge spanning the canal. You will see where it stood, where the canal narrows just before the right turn into the Middlewich section of the Shropshire Union, the last part of the Four Counties Ring. Once under the arch bridge that greets you on to the Middlewich section, the canal gently winds its way across mainly rural country, passing Venetian marine on the way. High above the meandering River Weaver, the village of Church Minsull can be reached from bridge 14. There are good moorings here as well. There is only 10 miles of the Middlewich section, and once through the Wardle lock, the Ring has been completed. A great canal boat holiday, a great challenge, and great fun! Yes, we'll be back!

For more information on Canal Boat Holidays on the Four Counties Ring, and other Canals, visit http://www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com/FourCountiesRing.html

Ironbridge-Shropshire - An Industrial Heritage Town

By Simon Haughtone

Ironbridge-Shropshire is located right on the Severn River. The town was named after the iron bridge that spans the river. This bridge was built in 1779. This is a new town and began to be built up about 40 years ago. This area is marketed as the starting point of the Industrial revolution. While this area was important for the industrial revolution it did not start in one spot but many places.

The bridge was built but the grandson of Abraham Darby, the man that detailed how to smelt iron incorporating coke in the process. This bridge made it possible to connect the two areas of the town. The Severn Gorge has many industrial links and much of the hotel and accommodations have been built up for travels to visit the gorge and the bridge. There are many excellent examples of Victorian villas and Georgian homes that were built by the prosperous mining, barge owners and ironmasters.

The town became a UNESCO world heritage site in 1986 and is a main tourist area in Shropshire. Much of the old industries are no longer operating though the Merrythought teddy bear company is still producing bears. The town has many small shops, cafes, pubs and a Post Office. Just outside the village is the Ironbridge Institute which offers studies in industrial heritage.

The Ironbridge Power Station is a heritage site that consists of two power stations fueled by coal. When it first was built this power station was considered a super station. It was near a cooling water source and the railway lines, making it an excellent spot for a power station. The station was designed to merge as seamlessly as possible with the natural surroundings.

The Ironbridge Gorge Museum trust runs 10 different heritage sites. These sites include many museums, tile works, iron works, the bridge and much more. If you are interested in origins of main industries then visiting this town is a great educational journey.

To find a hotel in Ironbridge just click here.

The Advantages of Taking a Baitboat on a Carp Fishing Holiday

By Jonny P

With most carp waters in the UK being so crowded with anglers, it is not really surprising that bait boats are not allowed, as they do tend to cause annoyance to other anglers - particularly those who do not use them!

In France, the situation is very different with many waters that can be booked exclusively for a party of anglers, and so it is unlikely that there will be any disagreements over the use of a bait boat. As I see it, bait boats are not dangerous to the fish in any way provided that they are used responsibly, and if they are not going to cause annoyance to anyone, then there is no good reason for prohibiting their use.

Of course there will be those anglers who believe that bait boats should not be used at all because they believe them to be unethical or "cheating" - this is a personal opinion only and I feel that it is absolutely pointless discussing this. Technology is used in many forms in modern fishing, and a bait boat is just another tool to help you to catch fish. If you don't believe in the use of bait boats then don't use one....but please don't go preaching to others about it!

So, with bait boats being allowed on most lakes in France, we can look at the question of whether or not you really need one? The short answer of course is no, on most venues you will be able to catch some carp without using a boat - however this is not always the case. For most people who come to France, time is limited and this usually means one week a year that can be allocated to a carp fishing holiday in France. This holiday will usually involve a fair amount of time, expense and planning, so - taking a boat with you might make the difference between a holiday to remember or one to forget.

Many people assume that bait boats are only useful for fishing at extreme range, when the fish are out of reach of normal casting techniques, but in fact they have many other uses and benefits - some of these are;

Stealth - a bait boat allows placement of your end tackle and/or bait without noise, allowing you to put a bait to the carp without spooking them

Accuracy - placement of your rig and free offerings first time every time is one of the major advantages of using a boat

Fishing tight to far margins - where fishing is restricted to one bank only, the carp will nearly always stay tight to the far margin, without a boat you might struggle!

Distance - if your distance casting is not the best, a boat can even out the playing field somewhat - if the carp are out of casting range and you have no boat, a blank is on the cards!

Fishing to underwater features - if your boat is equipped with an echo sounder, you can find out a lot about the nature of the lake bed in your swim in a short space of time - and without the need to make a lot of disturbance with the use of a marker rod! Having found some interesting looking features, you can now drop your baited rig right on top of them!

Looking at just these few major advantages of having a bait boat at your disposal reveals how much can be gained when you visit your chosen French Carp venue.

Buying a bait boat involves a significant outlay of cash, and bearing in mind that they are not allowed on most UK waters, so at our French Venues Les Croix and Les Levades, we have bait boats for hire at a reasonable cost. Offering this service means that those anglers who do not own a boat do not have to feel that they are at a disadvantage.

http://www.lescroix.co.uk
http://www.carp-fishing-holidays-france.com

Tricks To Have A Fun Winter Camping Time

By Kum Martin

Majority of us plan camping activities in summer vacations so that we can relax under the sun and enjoy the pleasant summer climate. But, camping can be real fun during the winter season. If you love adventure and just cannot wait for the summers to come, camping in the chilling weather is not a bad idea.

However, to ensure a memorable experience and have an amazing fun time while winter camping, here are a few tricks and tips that you must follow:

• Make sure you are well equipped with the appropriate gear for winter camping. For instance, having a sturdy winter camping tent and a sleeping bag with enough heat and insulation are a must to protect you from the cold.
• Next, proper and adequate clothing for the cold season is a must-have. Ensure that your sweatshirts, jackets, jogging pants, works, hats, and gloves are all made of a very thick fabric.
• Also, do not forget to take along plenty of hot drinks, a small water heater, a hot water bag, and a portable warm bath.
• If possible, you can also carry a small heater to keep your tent warm in freezing temperatures. The best choice would be a Coleman heater, which is specifically designed for small tent spaces.
• As there are many winter sports that you can enjoy during camping, take along clothing and equipments necessary to enjoy these games. If there are no such outdoor recreational sports being offered at the camping park, building a snowman or having a great snowball fight is not a bad idea!

Thus, be it winter or summer, camping is an amazing way to spend a vacation with family and friends.

About Author:
Kum Martin is an online leading expert in the travel industry. He also offers top quality articles like:
Pennsylvania Historical Landmarks, Washington Monument Facts

Driving Days - Making Car Fanatics' Dreams Come True

By Patrick McAleenan

The advent of driving day experiences has given motoring enthusiasts a wonderful opportunity to make their dreams come true. However, many are still oblivious to the exciting experiences available from gift experience pioneers.

You can give your favourite car fanatic amazing driving days to remember with high octane motorsport experiences. There is a stunning range featuring everything from Ferrari driving and Rally driving to classic cars and go-karting.

Experience the mind-blowing power and acceleration of some of the world's finest supercars, including Aston Martins, Lotus', Lamborghinis, Porsches, and Ferraris and more - all located at a number of the nation's best-loved and most historic motor racing tracks.

For an extra special occasion, why not go that extra mile and purchase a heart pumping ultimate Formula 1 driving day. Allow them to strap themselves into an F1-style single seater racing car for the ride of their lives. They will experience just how the pros do it - inches off the ground, experiencing the super-responsive steering and earth-shattering power of these incredible machines.

At the other end of the spectrum, your special recipient may wish to hark back to the days of true motoring bliss, with classic sports car driving days. Classic car driving experiences give them an opportunity to relish true motoring thoroughbreds. Whether they're taking them around the track or out on the open road, these classic sports cars have plenty of life left under the bonnet and timeless good looks to boot.

Perhaps you'd like to arrange an enjoyable family day out? Enjoy fast and furious go-karting action at a wide selection of karting tracks across the country, offering outdoor Grand Prix racing for all above the age of eight.

Red Letter Days provide high quality adventure & activity gifts for every occasion. Our wide range of driving days will solve any present buying dilemma. Purchase an activity gift voucher to give someone an unforgettable gift.

Outdoor Activities in the Lake District

By Michael P Grant

As a land of mountains, lakes and coast, the Lake District area is home to a great variety of outdoor activity centres. Many of them are happy to embrace all levels of experience and age and offer everything from short taster sessions to day-long adventures. Here is my pick of the best. There are several holiday cottages in the lake district which would make an ideal base from which to experience these fabulous activities.

Mountain Biking
Whinlatter Forest Park is the place to go if you're a committed mountain-biker. The Altura Trail is one of two routes at Whinlatter, and this one is red-graded, 19km long, and described as suitable for experienced riders with good off-road skills and a high level of fitness. If you can take your eyes off the berms, jumps, rock features, skinnies and cork screws, you'll see fabulous views of Bassenthwaite Lake, Derwentwater, Helvellyn and Skiddaw from your position 500m above Keswick.

The other mountain bike route at Whinlatter Forest Park is the Quercus Trail. This is a blue grade route suitable for moderately experienced riders, with a choice of 3.5 or 7.5km lengths. There are rolling jumps and gradual climbs, and trickier parts that are designed so you can choose them or not depending on your skill level. The route takes you through an oak forest and towering conifer glades.

Bikes can be hired at Whinlatter Forest Park's on-site Cyclewise centre. If you want to record the experience for dull days and doubters, Cyclewise can also hire out head-cameras for the duration of your trip!

High Wires and Cable-Assisted Routes
Do you want to 'get in touch with your inner Tarzan'? If so, the two Go Ape courses at Whinlatter and Grizedale will be just your thing - have a go on their high-wire tree crossings, zip wires and 'Tarzan drops'.

The Go Ape Centre at Whinlatter has the highest such course in the country at 360m above sea level, with a zip wire that roves through the forest, over water and clear blue skies (hopefully). The views on a good day can stretch all the way across the county to the Scottish border.

The Go Ape Course at Grizedale Forest travels the side of steep hill, 200m above Grizedale Beck.

The Newlands Adventure Centre has a high wire course, in addition to a wide choice of outdoor activities (see below).

Rookin House also has a zip wire course. They offer a wide range of other activities (see below).

The Lakes' latest high-rise adventure is the Via Ferrata, or 'iron road' at Honister Slate Mines. The route, constructed of rungs and cables, allows you to climb 2,126 feet with relative ease. Combine the trip with a visit to the mine itself, or ramp up the adrenaline further with a trip on their zip wire.

All Things Horsey
If your normal hack takes you across a bit of scrubby ground on the edge of town, you'll love the opportunities in the Lakes.

Low Farm Riding Centre takes riders of all levels out in the fells, or - bliss! - along the beach at Allonby. Short rides are available in the lovely countryside local to Aspatria, too.

Rookin House Activity Centre also offers riding for beginners and the more experienced.

If you used to make an annual appointment with the famous Lowther Show (now sadly defunct), you'll know that carriage driving is popular amongst native Cumbrians... and the royal family. You can try the sport out for yourself at the Lakeland Heavy Horse Centre at Dearham near Maryport. You can also find out all about these traditional breeds and meet some miniature Shetland ponies.

Rough Terrain Driving
Rookin House Activity Centre at Troutbeck, Penrith, is a multi-activity site offering a lot of skill and bucketloads of invention. Here you can trek out on a quad bike or mini quad bikes for 6-11 year olds, try madtrax (rough terrain buggies), JCBs (yes!), an army truck or the 4x4 course.

Rookin House also offers riding, an assault course and zip wire.

Climbing, Abseiling, Scrambling and Walking
Apparently Carol climbs, walks, paddles, scrambles, angles and dangles, or at least, that's what it says on CarolClimb's website! Carol and Richard are based in Wasdale, close to Scafell Pike and Wastwater. They offer guided mountain walks, scrambles up ghylls in full torrent, a spot of abseiling and rock climbing. They also kayak in many of the region's lakes.

The Keswick Adventure Centre is a great one-stop shop for a myriad of outdoor activities. Beginners aged 7 to 70 can join 'taster' sessions or the more experienced can enjoy more challenging sessions. Choose from rock climbing (on the indoor climbing wall or outdoors), abseiling or walking.

The Newlands Adventure Centre in the Newlands Valley offers ghyll scrambling, climbing, abseiling and mountain walks.

Paragliding
If you're a lover of the Lake District, you'd really enjoy a new perspective on this wonderful county. Take to the air in a paraglider!

Air Ventures operates from Keswick and flies over the northern Lake District. Kids can join in, too, in special tandem flights.

Eden Soaring takes advantage of the notoriously fierce thermals of the North Pennines in the Eden Valley.Within easy reach of the Ullswater and Penrith area.

Lakes and Rivers
Many parts of the Lake District have outdoor activity providers with experienced instructors to teach you basic or more advanced skills. Try these for size...

Derwentwater Marina is a great place to go for all things watery - sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking, and raft-building. You can learn the skills from scratch, or just hire a canoe, kayak, sailing dinghy, surfboard or rowing boat and set off across the lake.

The Glenridding Sailing Centre, at the pretty village of Glenridding on Ullswater, offers the opportunity to learn to sail dinghies and traditional boats, or more modest, but just as enjoyable, canoes and kayaks. You can also hire craft to take out on the lake yourself.

The nattily-named Platty Plus at Keswick offers something different on the boating scene. Ever fancied going out in a Viking long boat or a dragon boat? Well, here's your opportunity. Platty Plus can also teach you to handle canoes, kayaks and power boats.

Just Plain Bonkers
The sort of people who set up outdoors activities businesses here in the Lake District invariably have a sense of adventure and a well-developed fun muscle. Their imagination knows few bounds...

Ever wanted to walk on water? Well, if you've visited Derwentwater recently, you will have seen people captured in large transparent balls, running across the lake in a manner a hamster would appreciate - these are the Keswick Adventure Centre's Waterwalkerz.

It's hard to know whether the staff at Rookin House had fun, revenge or punishment in mind when they invented human bowling. Perhaps a delicious combination of all three! So, if you have a strong stomach and sense of humour, you can climb into a cage-like, human-sized ball, and allow your friends to bowl you at some very large pins.
There are plenty of self catering lake district cottages across Cumbria which would be an ideal starting point to go and experience some of these great activities. Just follow the link in the resource box.

http://www.sallyscottages.co.uk

Snowdonia Makes an Ideal Destination for Winter Activity Breaks

By Dipika Patel

Whether you love horse riding, hiking or fishing - or perhaps all three - you may want to make Snowdonia your next destination for winter weekend activity holidays. The national park, which is the second largest in England and Wales, measures some 823 square miles, meaning that if you're keen to experience the great outdoors on UK short breaks there is hardly any better place to do so.

Snowdonia is located in the north-west of Wales and while it is certainly a great destination in the summer, UK holidays here in the winter are sure to be equally exciting and there will be a wide variety of activities for you to take part in. Indeed, taking weekend activity beaks here can be a good idea if you are into your watersports. There are over 100 lakes in the national park that measure more than an acre in size, the largest of which is Llyn Tegid that is four miles long and in places three-quarters of a mile wide.

Also known as Bala Lake, Llyn Tegid can be the perfect spot to indulge in a spot of coarse fishing. Cast a line here to catch a variety of species, ranging from pike and perch to grayling. However, you may want to keep an eye out for the rare gwyniad. This species is protected and is believed to have been imprisoned in the lake some 10,000 years ago during Britain's last ice age. As such, you may find that a spot of fishing here allows you an insight into what life was like thousands of years ago.

But if you're not into fishing, do not worry, there are still plenty of activities that you can take part in while on a short break in Snowdonia. With so many lakes you may want to take a boat or kayak and head out on to the open water, doing so can certainly be a great way of getting some fresh air! However, a trip to Snowdonia does not entirely have to be spent by the water. Why not explore the national park by two wheels? With a variety of traffic-free cycle paths, you are bound to find travelling around by bicycle a pleasure.

You can head along the Mawddach Trail, which stretches for nine miles from Morfa Mawddach to Dolgellau. There are also a number of forestry cycling trails, which are particularly well-suited for mountain bikes. As you go along these paths during your winter activity break, you may be able to gaze in wonder at the frost-covered ground and trees that are bare of leaves.

Horse-riding and geocoaching are just some of the other pursuits you can try your hand at while on a visit to Snowdonia.

One item you should be sure to take with you on a trip to Wales is a pair of good-quality walking boots. Snowdonia is full of paths and trails and as the park's vast scale takes in environments ranging from coastal areas and rivers to forests and valleys, you can be confident that going for a walk will give you the opportunity to take in some splendid sights.

But if you're looking to learn something while you walk, check out the Bwrlwm Eryr audio trail. This six-mile path goes from Llanuwchllyn to Llanycil and as you walk along it you can find out more about local folklore and the region's residents. These include Owen Morgan Edwards, a 19th century editor and educator who was keen to foster pride in Welsh language and local traditions.

Alternatively, why not take the trail between Aberdyfi and Gwelfor? As you walk along this route, you will be able to see some fantastic sights, with the route ending by the coast. There are paths and trails suitable for people of all ages, however, if you're looking for something a little more strenuous during your activity break then you may want to consider tackling Mount Snowdon.

At 1,085 tall, the mountain is the highest peak in Wales and England. So if you're seeking a challenge while in Snowdonia, scaling the mountain - which is known as Yr Wyddfa in Welsh - could be the perfect activity. There are several paths leading to Snowdon's summit, so you will find plenty of ways to approach the mountain. The national park offers so many things to do in the winter, you may want to make it an activity holidays destination for many years to come.

For weekend activity breaks look no further than Wales. The country is perfect for both weekend activity holidays and UK short breaks. By going on UK holidays to Snowdonia, you will find that Wales is the perfect best place to enjoy the great outdoors.

Top 10 Reasons to Visit the Cotswolds

By Andy Williams

The great thing about the Cotswolds is the variety of activities on offer. Whether you're visiting as a group of friends, young family, or a retired couple, there is something for pretty well anyone. And many of the activities are free! No-one charges you to wander across some of the best countryside in England or take your mountain bike for a trip round the Gloucestershire country lanes. I've lived in the area for all of my life and I hope that this top ten gives you some inspiration to come and visit the area and enjoy everything that's on offer.

Westonbirt Arboretum. One of the most popular paid for attractions in the Cotswolds is the National Arboretum in Westonbirt. Lying a few miles SW of Tetbury its home to a fantastic range of trees and shrubs landscaped in 600 acres with 17 miles of footpaths - walk them all and you'll deserve a meal out at one of the typical Cotswold pubs in the area.

Sudeley Castle. Dating back over many centuries, with royal connections and based just outside Winchcombe (which itself was once the chief city of Mercia), Sudeley also has an extensive range of gardens, so a great day out whatever the weather.

Walking. Where do you start? There are so many walks across the Cotswolds, from the ever present Cotswold Way to the challenges around the River Wye there is something for everyone, and many of the published walks give details of pubs and tea shops to take in on along the way!

Mountain Biking. Again, there are many choices across the area, some of my favourites have been in the North Cotswolds riding across some of the higher ground around Blockley or Beckford - it can be hard work to climb to the top of the escarpments but the views are worth it.

Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Railway. This is being developed along the old route from Cheltenham to Stratford-On-Avon. It currently runs for about 10 miles from Cheltenham to Toddington a few miles north of Winchcombe. There are a range of steam and diesel engines in operation, and if you're keen you can even have the chance to drive one of them. Be sure to watch out for specific events throughout the year including their Santa Special, Paddington Bear event and their dining trains.

Historic Manor Garden. This is the sort of garden that you can enjoy if you aren't a gardener. With fantastic borders and a series of outdoor 'rooms' each with their own particular feel, even those of us without green fingers can enjoy a few hours here.

Shakespeare's Stratford. Many people base themselves in the North Cotswolds so that they are close to Stratford and all that it offers, whether it is a tour of the houses associated with the famous bard or the opportunity to see one of his plays if Shakespeare's your thing there is enough to keep you interested for many days in Stratford.

Cotswold Wildlife Park. For those of you with children one of the most popular animal attractions is the Cotswold Wildlife Park situated outside Burford. It is home to many wild animals many of which are not behind bars (although the lions thankfully are enclosed). There is also a good play area for the children to work off excess energy if there's any left after walking round the animals.

Authentic pub with a real log fire. No trip to the Cotswolds would be complete without a trip (or two or three) to one of the many authentic pubs in the area. Many offer a variety of real ales and in the winter months open log fires. Some offer a choice of meals in the bar or a more formal affair served in the dining room and if you're eating during the day, don't forget to find a garden and a good view.

Bourton-On-The-Water. This is one of the most visited and well loved villages in the Cotswolds especially with young families. The river runs though the centre and ducks swim along its route. For the youngsters there's the Model Railway, Model Village, Dragonfly Maze, Birdland, and the Cotswold Motor Museum. With the perfume exhibition, tea shops and local pubs there is plenty to keep everyone happily occupied for many hours.

And Finally... don't forget that for some things you need to be here at the right time, for example, The Rococo Gardens in snowdrop season, the National Hunt Festival at Cheltenham Racecourse (March), Badminton Horse Trials (May), Cheese Rolling at Coopers Hill (Spring Bank Holiday), Kemble Air show (June), Fairford Royal International Air Tattoo (July), Cheltenham Festival of Literature (October) and the Enchanted Christmas at Westonbirt Arboretum (November / December).

Anna Phillips represents Jigsaw Holidays, specialists in supplying Cotswold Cottages and character properties as part of your Cotswold Holiday.